Comments: I'm not disappointed with this more expensive bait caster. Very smooth operation and definitely casts farther than my cheaper reels. I have paid and very much enjoying the play.

From: Unknown: 9/16/23

Comments: These reels are the deal. They're reliable, durable, look good, feel good in your hand, cast a mile, and can skip baits like butter. The Chronarch MGL reels can do anything.

From: Kyle: Paso Robles 5/5/23

Comments: Good reel, paint chips and scratches far too easily. Looks seasoned after less than 1 year of use.

From: Steve: Minnesnowta 1/28/23

Comments: Love, love, love this reel. I have the whole line up and not a moments trouble with them. It casts smoothly. It is quiet as I don't hear the grinding sound that sometimes you hear with reels. I know the price is expensive but this reel is worth it. I recommend it.

From: Stacey: Mississippi 7/15/22

Comments: Everything you'd expect from the latest generation Shimano Chronarch, lightweight, excellent cast ability, smooth drag, and small comfortable profile, the real works flawlessly unless you overfill the spool and you will get binding as you real your final few yards in.Would strongly recommend this real to fisherman of any caliber.

From: Charlie: West Palm Beach, FL 6/29/22

Comments: I have 6 of these reels. They're the best for the price point. Once you get the reel set for your application it's the bomb. They are super smooth and will cast 50 yards with the flip of your wrist. I recommend all different speeds as well.

From: Jeff: Duck Hill, MS 5/22/22

Comments: Great reel but the paint comes off way to easy for $300. After a week had scuffs and paint chips. Had my curados for about 2 years and not a mark on them

From: Kevin: North Carolina 5/21/22

Comments: I've had a couple in use for 8 months now, very solid performers. Also agree with others about the versatility. Smooth and accurate.

From: Bruce: Virginia 4/25/22

Comments: Purchased these to replace 20 year old chronarch reels. Quality seems to be good, time will tell,so far I'm satisfied with the performance.

From: Jim: Montague,MA 2/26/22

Comments: Love this reel, light weight and feel really good in your hand, cast smooth as any other MGL I have purchased, can't wait for summer to sling some top waters with it.

From: Kyle: Sparks, NV 2/4/22

Comments: These are hard to beat for the money...seems like the more you use it the smoother it gets..been a diehard shimano user since 1986..wont consider anthing else and never disappionted

From: Ron: Omaha, AR 12/22/21

Comments: This thing is a total sleeper real in the lineup. Easily performs on par with my Bantam MGL. Feels well above it's price point and performs well with a variety of uses, I've had everything from 10lb fluoro to 50lb braid with no complains yet.

From: Jon: Wrightsville, PA 11/15/21

Comments: I have owned just about every newer Shimano reel, from slx mgl up to Antares mgl70 and Antares dc Monster Drive. The Chronarch is a solid reel and is good for the price. Not my favorite but it is a noticeable step up from the curado series. If you can swing the extra coin I would go for Metanium, but if not this is a great reel for the price.

From: Victor: Beaumont, CA 10/3/21

Comments: Due to chronic elbow tendinitis, I was looking for a couple new reels that increase casting distance with same/less effort. I bought this reel and a Daiwa Tatula Elite. Honestly, both are great reels - can't go wrong. But for the record, the Elite outdistances the MGL.

From: Unknown: 9/19/21

Comments: I've thrown Diawa reels for the last 5 years and had the opportunity to pick up a Chronarch earlier this summer. It wasn't long after I grabbed the chronarch mgl and I absolutely love it. Almost love it as much as my Metanium. The castability and smoothness of this reel is like a dream. My arsenal is all Shimano reels now and am up in the air on grabbing another Chronarch or another Metanium. Tough decision considering both reels are absolutely amazing. Great job once again Shimano!!

From: Unknown: Michigan 9/14/21

Comments: After using a Chronarch MGL I ordered 2 more.  Great little reel for the price -- I have two with braid on em for topwater and one with FC for jerk baits.  So far I've had no issues with any of the three and, as an 80 year old, I need light equipment which Chronarchs definitely are.

From: William: San Diego, CA 9/8/21

Comments: For finesse fishing I prefer Chronarch over Daiwa (using only the braking system for adjustments doesn't give the control that Chronarch provides with its cast control knob, numbered braking system and interior adjustments.) I own both brands but prefer Shimano at this price point.

From: William: San Deigo, CA 9/5/21

Comments: Workhorse reel , light and sturdy. My favorite reel for worm and jig fishing.

From: Kyle: Carterville, IL 8/10/21

Comments: I LOVE this reel. The setup I have with this reel is light as a feather and it allows me to cast the lightest of baits a mile (3/16 oz. is my lightest currently and this reel has no issues casting it far), despite not being a BFS reel. It has enough power for the toughest of fish and I love it! Currently this is paired with a 6'10" Med Shimano Expride. It is my jerkbait/fluke/topwater popper/dark sleeper/shaky head rod. It does all of this exceptionally well! A phenomenal reel at a fantastic price point!

From: Michael: Wisconsin 8/6/21

Comments: Amazing reel, much better than the prior Chronarch model. Casts 3/16 jig heads very well. I will be purchasing many more in the future. Well worth the money.

From: Unknown 7/28/21

Comments: I am embarrassed to say I probably own 40 Shimano reels of all models, and except for the I4 Chronarch's, with some being better than others they have all performed well with the MGL's being at the top of my list! They cast fantastic, super smooth drag and where they really shine over the other brands is there longevity! Not once have I been let down by Shimano reels, but I have seen many co-anglers in my boat have issues with other brands.   

From: Charlie: Wellington: FL 7/26/21

Comments: Smooth casting machine - the adjutants to prevent a bird nests are significantly improved over my old chronarchs, which were good! Ergonomics excellent, easily it's the hand making casting even large glide baits effortless. This reel is, in my opinion, just what you would expect from Shimano.

From: Mark: Indian River, MI 7/13/21

Comments: In my opinion the best do everything reel on the market. Can launch baits, has smooth drag and even smoother gearing, all the while being very dependable. If you had one casting reel to buy to do everything exceptionally well this would be it.

From: Unknown: Indianapolis, ID

Comments: This reel casts well but has some definite draw backs. It feels very big in hand and has a very narrow feeling spool. My Slx mgl weighs more but feels way better in hand while fishing.  If you like the feeling of a tall reel with very little room from side to side then this one's for you.

From: Unknown: Clearlake, CA 6/12/21

Comments: I have a Super-Free, MG, B series  and E-series - This is my favorite Chronarch yet!  I use this for launching topwaters long distance.  Walking baits and whoopers ploopers excel.  Plus, its great for all reaction baits.

From: Tomegun: Oregon 5/2/21

Comments: Very smooth, light weight  casting, durable and use supports any and all techniques.

From: Unknown: Tennessee 4/30/21

Comments: I love the Chronarch reels, they cast very far in fact I can through 1/4 ounce baits with ease. They are very durable.  I personally think they have the best bearings.

From: Ed: Bethlehem, PA 3/26/21

Comments: This is the third generatiion of Chonarch I have owned.  All three generations are still in use!  This is the best Chronarch yet.  Exceptional casting distance a great feel in your hand and a silky smooth consistent drag have made this a favorite .  I use this reel for 8 LB test finess to heavy braid for flipping.  Handles all situations with easy.

From: Rodney: Encinitas, CA 3/22/21

Comments: Stop messing with all those other brands and get yourself the real deal ... Shimano Chronarch is an awesome reel, it's light, very compact and it functions extremely smooth all around. I own the Curado DC and tbh I don't know which one I like best just yet ...

From: Rance: Mission, TX 3/14/21

Comments: I have 4 Chronarch's. My Nephew taught me how to use a bait caster after using a spin caster for 45 years. This is one Classy reel.

From: Bob: Hammond, Indiana 2/21/21

Comments: I've never been disappointed with Shimano reels. I currently own three Chronarch MGL casting reels. You can dial them in to throw nearly anything from lightweight  finesse baits to heavier applications. You'll quickly realize that it will become your favorite casting reel that is sure to give you many fishing seasons of trouble free use.

From: Russ: Vonore, TN 2/11/21

Comments: By far my favorite shimano reel I own. Considerable step up from the Curado. You won't want to put this thing down, it's amazing!

From: Jay: Southern California 2/5/21

Comments: Phenomenal reel. Very lightweight, casts and reels extremely smooth. I love these reels for lightweight, sensitive, bottom contact setups. If you want that really high end feel without the high end price tag, look no further.

From: Travis: Missouri 2/3/21

Comments: So far so good, have it on my jerkbait rod and has performed nicely, feels good in my hand and smooth!

From: Mike: Crossville, TN 2/1/21

Comments: Great reel, it is smooth and lightweight. I've only been able to put a few hours on it but it is quickly becoming my favorite.

From: John: San Antonio, TX 1/28/21

Comments: By far the best high end reel for the not so high end cost. Don't get me wrong it's still a lot of money but definitely worth it. I've had 500.00 dollar reels not as good as these.

From: Randy: 1/27/21

Comments: Super lite for price, but extremely dependable and accurate. You can not go wrong with Shimano I'll put it up against any Diawa any day of the week.

From: Danny: Potomac MD 1/26/21

Comments: Very impressed with this reel.Very light as expected.The MGL spool is a pleasure to use when pitching light baits.Build quality is superior.I expect to use this reel all day long.

From: Warren 1/6/21

Comments:Fantastic reel for the money, smooth, casts great I own 8 of them the only issues I've had is from spooling on too much line, that makes the reel want to bind up, other than that they work flawlessly.

From: Charlie: Wellington, FL 1/2/21

Comments:Nice light weight baitcaster, very smooth. I use it for light-medium search baits. I would like to see shimano come out with a Chronarch DC.

From: Brad: Kingsport, TN 1/1/21

Comments:Buttery smooth. solid, dependable.

From: Michael: Columbia 12/27/20

Comments:This real is awesome. I have to say this is the most expensive reel I have owned. I've had a SLX DC and a concept C. But this is on another level. Ive used a met DC and I actually liked this better. Great reel, it's worth the money!!

From: Chris: Vermont 12/23/20

Comments: Can't complain its butter smoth and very high quality. I would have been happy with it at $350. It's a no Brainerd if u have the cash and like higher end gear without the crazy price tag. Just caught a 5 nd a halfpound LMB today on it and Shimano poison Adrena rod and it handled like a combo many hundreds of dollars more.

From: Alex: Northern NJ 11/21/20

Comments: Bought 2 of these reels, one for a 7'11" flippin/pitching with braided line..perfect match. The other was placed on a 7'4" glass cranking rod with Polymer line. A good setup, but maybe would have a liked a lighter reel. I own 20 or so Shimanos, they all are still in excellent shape!

From: Bob 11/12/20

Comments: I bought my first Chronarch MGL in 2017. After 3 years, that OG reel still feels smooth, solid, and reliable. I initially used it for heavy applications like flipping and frogging, but wanted to see how it handled lighter baits. I put it on a 6'10" medium rod, which it is light enough to properly balance. It's still on that same rod, 2 years later.

Although it handles the heavier stuff just fine, this reel has a smooth enough drag to control 10-12 pound line very well. I stick with Curado E's and K's for flipping, frogging, and power fishing, and rely on the Chronarch MGL or Aldebaren for my finesse techniques. Definitely a reel that stands up to the abuse of power fishing, but has plenty of cushion to offer a lux experience when using small baits.

From: Isaac - Texas 10/28/20

Comments: One of the best reels I've ever used. Have the 7:1 on a 7' MH Dobyns Extreme and that is my general purpose rod. I also have the 6:1 on a 7'3" Dobyns Champion that is my bladed jig setup. both reels are amazing and preform flawlessly. I would highly recommend these reels to anybody.

From: Curt V.: Western MA 10/15/20

Comments: Amazing reel! First off it looks amazing with the chrome and it's lightas a feather. Cart smith reels smooth, best reel iv ever used. Got it paired with a nrx 7'1 MH. Best combo iv ever touched!

From: Brandon: KC, MO 10/9/20

Comments: I had this chronarch MGL reel for over a month and boy let me tell you it's my favorite reel. I was casting a fluke on it and it felt so smooth no cap. Y'all should get yourself one you won't regret it.

From: Sem 10/7/20

Comments:Bought the chronarch mgl. For top water lures. and found this is my best bait casting reel. better than my tatula eltie... this reel is so smooth. And never had one back lash. best reel I have ever casted

From: Unknown: 9/28/20

Comments:bought one of these reels for top water fishing. this reel cast better than my tatula elite reels. ive been using bait caster for 50 years. and this reel is hands down the best I've ever used. not one back lash.

From: Unknown: 9/14/20

Comments: An exceptional reel. Able to cast very light baits and not skip a beat with heavier fare. The reel as noted is remarkably smooth in all aspects. I prefer it over the Curado DC especially handling fluorocarbon. Unbelievable value, and a reel that provides enormous pleasure for virtually any application.

From: WM: Indianapolis, IN 7/6/20

Comments:I have been fishing with bait casters for 45 years''' fished them all' daiwa 'abu' lews' quantum 'arendt' pflueger' and truethfulely lews I have been fishing with for years'' had the first corado in 1982 and loved it and the bantama'' the only way some body can give this reel a bad review is they dont know how to fish with a bait caster!!!! this reel is not for beginners;;; I have the daiwa sw steeze $450 the most I have paid for a reel''and it is a bad ass!! but overall this is best.

From:Unknown: 6/3/20

Comments:Have this reel in the 150 6.2 ratio on a 7'2 mh zodias rod . It's expensive but by far the best all around combo I have used in 35 years of fishing.

From:John: 5/30/20

Comments:It is an amazing reel for the price. The smoothness of this reel is fantastic! I have used both high end fluro and braid, I think the braid is better on this reel. I use 20lb VS super 8 power pro and it is a dream! The drag is incredibly smooth as well. I have caught a 9 1/2 lb snakehead on this thing and you couldn't even feel when the fish pulled drag. This reel also casts a WIDE range of things. Small to medium soft plastics, to small to medium jerk baits, small to medium lipless crankbaits, whatever you have, this reel can handle it. Tough, beautiful build, fantastic color, smooth and efficient. Cannot as for anything better! If you are considering, buy it!

From: JD: Lake Worth, FL 3/28/20

Comments:I've had this reel for one year, which in Michigan is about 7-8 months of use, and it is amazing. I was nervous about getting a non metal framed reel but this reel feels solid while still feeling light as feather. I know there are lighter reels out there but this reel really combines all the things you look for in a reel. The retrieve is silky smooth, I have fished primarily jigs and t-rigs with this reel, meaning I've picked up a lot of slack line... so not a lot of wear and tear on the gears but have fished some moving baits with it. The retrieve really feels close to nothing. Casting is effortless, 1/4 to 1/2 ounce jigs fly off the rod. I didn't pay full price but I do feel it is worth the $280 price tag. Time will tell how long this performance will last but to guess years and then some with maintenance. Only complaint is the finish seems to chip pretty easy, good news that doesn't affect how it fishes.

From: Jake: Burton, MI 2/9/20

Comments:I bought this reel for the main purpose of throwing football head jigs. I put it on a 7' 4" Heavy with 17Lb line and went to work. After catching numerous bass I have come to love this reel and would recommend to anyone looking to upgrade their reel arsenal!

From: Lane S: Kentucky

Comments:I won't even compare the the chronarch to other non shimano reels . Would not be fair .. but I will compare it to all my other shimanos .. I've the mentanium - bantam & on down .. but pound for pound ( ignore the price ) the chronarch is my favorite .. ever had a reel that was just a perfect fit In every way ? That's what the chronarch is for me .. I love this reel . The weight is perfect , I don't much care for ultra light reels . I like the feel of a tool in my hand . It cast silky smooth - the retrieve matches . Again not the most expensive of shimanos line up . But pound for pound my favorite .. extremely accurate casting reel .. highly recommended.. everybody needs a chronarch in their angling Arsenal

From:Dean: 6/22/19

Comments:There's enough reviews about how good this reel is. Let me start by saying, it is! Don't be like me and buy more expensive, or other reels in its price range. You're seriously losing out on a great reel. Most reels in this price range will cast well, be smooth, not to mention catch fish, but the Chronarch mgl makes it fun even when you're not catching fish. I'm not going to sell off my Steez, Zillions, or Ci4's, but I will be buying more Chronarch mgl's. Ending notes: SMOOOTH! Doesn't feel as smooth at the store, or out of the box, but on the water where it counts, It's hard to beat.

From:Mr. Vue: DC 6/14/19

Comments:Absolutely phenomenal reel. I have 2 Met MGLS in the lineup currently and picked up the chronarch just a couple months ago and though it may not have the casting distance the Metanium has, the brass gears on the chronarch certainly make it a smoother reel than the Met under load. Extremely comfortable to palm and the handle size on the HG model is perfect unlike the small 90mm handle that comes on the Metanium HGs. Overall, highly recommend this reel. The Metanium does beat it out at the end of the day but there are certainly some applications where the Chronarch performs better.

From: Andrew:MA5/16/19

Comments:Had this reel over a year now. Overall it's a great reel! Insanely smooth and powerful. Sometimes I think my drag is loose when I'm fighting a fish, that's how smooth it is haha. Although it's a great performing reel I have had many technical problems with it. This has been the only reel that has given me these problems. The tension knob is quite loose ( curado k has a tight tension to it) the spring for the clicking star drag has broken ( Easily replaceable but come on ) and the metal nut that is attached to the clutch comes off when I take the side plate off. I don't know why a reel at this price has so many small problems. Maybe I just got a dud. I would give if a 10/10 if it weren't for those small problems. Great reel though I'm still satisfied. I give if a 7/10.

From: Unknown 2/19/19

Comments:Overall kind of disappointed with this reel. Only bc I thought the retrieve would be smoother. I had the reel replaced twice bc I couldn't believe this reel wasn't smoother than my $80 lews carbonfire. Hopefully with more use it breaks in. Other than that I'd say it has been pretty good. Also wish the tension knob clicked, but that's just a preference thing so can't really hold it over it's head. Worth $280? I'd say no so far.

From: John:Cleveland ohio 1/30/19

Comments:Excellent reel. It's not quite as smooth as the Curado when you play with it in the store (this is because the Curado has bigger handle grips that absorb more vibration), but this thing is awesome on the water, and definitely worth the investment. It's a little on the bigger size for a 150 size reel (the bigger spooled Curado is smaller) but it's very light weight and still palms very well. 5/5 would recommend

From: Unknown 1/23/19

Comments:I was a diehard Lews man for years and I will still use Lews reels but IR022R122m switching most of my reels over to Shimano after buying this reel. This thing is an absolute dream to fish with. You can bomb weightless Senkos and flukes with this reel. Smooth drag and butter smooth casting. I got it paired with a G Loomis NRX and I fish mainly flukes with it. I could not be happier with this reel and will absolutely buy again. Shimano now has a fan for life here!

From: Hunter:Carrollton, GA12/21/18

Comments:I've had the pleasure of fishing with this reel for a season, and it has quickly become my favorite reel.I'm a bigger guy with bigger hands, and this thing fits like a glove in my palmIt's super comfortable to fish with too.I don't hear many reviewers talk about things like handle knobs, but I absolutely love the knobs on this reel as well.They're extremely comfortable and soft.This reel has excellent durability and maintains that consistent smoothness day after day with simple routine maintenance.I've caught hundreds of bass with this reel, and after one season it's still as smooth as the day I bought it.

From: Dan Doddroe:Kewanee, IL 12/20/18

Comments:Well this is the first "high end" reel I've bought, and wow, I should not have! I don't think i'll be able to buy cheap reels again! This thing is incredible. Everything about it is super smooth, there's no wiggle in the handle, and once dialed in casts like a dream. It took me a little bit to get it dialed in but once I did I have not had any problems backlashing. It also has a great looking paint job on it. Kind of a gunmetal color with red flake in it. As soon as I have the money I will definitely be buying more!

From: Brian:Alabama10/30/18

Comments:The beginning of the year I had bought two new casting rods and I wanted a quality reel to go with both (obviously) I looked and looked and I dialed it down between a diawa and the chronarch mgl... I pulled the trigger on 2 mgl's both is the hg model. I've now owned the reels for a year... The day they came out of the box they were as smooth as a brand new paint job... It was effortless... After a few months the reels broke in and they were even smoother... I could not believe it. I fish a lot of light tackle stuff being here on lake Champlain, but I do also fish the heavier things as well, handles it all with absolutely zero problems. The drag is buttery smooth, handles all situations perfect from jigs to frogs. I will be ordering 2 more this spring without hesitation.

From: Cameron - 10/28/18

Comments:I bought this reel in the xg version back in October. It was a super solid reel no play in the handle, super smooth, casted quietly an far. Then comes spring I made a cast and it so happened that one of the svs brakes broke. The problem is there is no spare brakes that come in the box, or that you can buy online unless you buy the entire $60 spool. So I sent back to shimano being that the reel was covered under warranty, took about a month with shimano sending it to the wrong address two times somehow!? Then finally after a month or so I got a new reel. When I started to reel it I noticed handle was wobbly to the point that you could see it if you spun the handle, the gears were rather noisy if the reel not under load, and it seemed a bit too noisy when I casted it being its brand new. So I sent it back again and shimano said it met there factory standards, which is just stupid considering I have a curado I and numerous other reels that didn't have this problem. Don't get me wrong it is a AMAZING reel that casts with little effort (including small lures). Just keep in mind shimano customer service isn't the best, but I would recommendthis reel a 100%.

From:Unknown: Michigan 8/9/18

Comments:If you are on the fence between the new Chronarch and the new carado, I'd highly recommend spending a little more for the Chronarch. It's super smooth and reliable. I'm a long time Shimano fan and this is the best Chronarch yet. It cast lures a mile and doesn't back lash. I also have usedAlderbarins and the Ateras casting reels and the Chronarch goes toe to toe with them in my opinion.

From: Dean:Clearlake 5/31/18

Comments:LOOK UP SPOOL SPEED BEARINGS AND BUY A WHOLE SET FOR THIS REEL. PINION BEARINGS, DRIVE BEARING, AND SPOOL BEARINGS. THIS REEL WILL LITERALLY BE AN F1 SUPER CAR OF A REEL. IM TALKING DUMPING THE SPOOL EVERY CAST, PITCHING 1/2 JIGS 30 YEARDS. BUY ONE IT EATS ANYTHING ELSE ALIVE ON THE MARKET FOR THE PRICE

From:Lex: Minnesota 5/22/18

Comments:Bought a Chronarch MGL XG a few months ago...very impressed by it.Could chuck my baits pretty far.Have it paired up with a dobyns extreme and man I love it.So much that I bought another Chronarch MGL XG today and pairing it up with a dobyns champion cranking rod.

From: Thaying:Fresno4/10/18

Comments:So this is my first Shimano baitcasting reel... I am very happy and impressed with it so far. I have done a full detailed review of the Chronarch MGL vs the Zillion SV TW and find them very close while each have distinct benefits. The Zillion SV TW will cast light lures easier and backlash less. The Chronarch MGL will edge out the Zillion slightly in overall distance and is a more refined reel. That's the 2 sentence summary. The Chronarch MGL is no finesse slouch though either, I use mine on a 7'Medium, fast rod for little swimbaits, tubes, shaky heads, etc. You can still easily cast 1/8 shaky heads with a worm and 1/8 heads with little Keitechs on the Chronarch MGL. I own 7 Daiwa reels (SV105, 2 Zillion SV, 2 Zillion TWS, original Type R Tatula, Tatula HD) and plan on adding a second Chronarch MGL in the 8 speed model. Very pleased overall with this reel and it seems to work perfect as a semi-finesse baitcaster.

From: Weston: AR 1/21/18

Comments:Got this reel for Christmas tried it today and absolutely love it did catch a fish but the reel is as smooth as silk. Not disappointed at all this will be the reel I'll I use for jigs

From: Unknown - 1/7/18

Comments:Incredible reel just like all Shimano products. effortless turning of the handle, even as the tension knob is tightened. One of the smoothest and furthest casting reels out there. No other brand alcan come close to Shimano.

From:Ethan: Tennessee 12/31/17

Comments:Just received one for Christmas can't wait to use it see if lives up to all the hype.

From:David - Newman, Georiga 12/29/17

Comments:Just an incredible reel. I have both Chronarchs and Metaniums....absolutely no doubt the Metanium has the edge in sexiness....but the Chronarch edges out the Metanium in everyday performance, at least for me. They have a very different hand feel due to the difference in their size and shape - and I admit the Metanium fits my hand more naturally than the Chronarch - but, for some reason, the Chronarch performs better and more effortlessly. For me, now having used both reels, if the price were exactly the same - I would choose a Chronarch.

From: Unknown Jim: Dallas, TX 11/9/17

Comments:The MGL feels great! You can definitely tell the advancement of technology since the E series Chronarchs, which are still a favorite of mine. The MGL is smooth, light, and crisp in casting. I have been fishing mine for a few months now and definitely look forward to using it more often, maybe even picking up another one. There's not much to complain about, other than running into a casting problem after about 2 months of fishing at an average of 2-3 times a week. The reel started to feel sticky and rough when casting. I did the regular basic cleaning and maintenance and it is now fine. While maintenance is a must, I wouldn't think a few weeks of use would make the reel feel as bad as it did. My E series sometime go months of abuse without much cleaning and never run into any problems. Other than that, it's a solid reel.

From: Scott: Fresno, CA 9/13/17

Comments: This reel is amazing it cast a country mile and smoother than a hot knife though butter liked this reel so much after having it a day went back and bought another mgl and the new curando k don't waste your money on a metanium I have one this beats it

From: Will: Houston tx 9/11/17

Comments:I have owned a Metanium and I sold it and replace it with another Chronarch MGL. The Metanium to me was always finicky (more of a geary feeling) than the Chronarch. The Chronarch might not look as sexy as the Metanium, but I prefer it. I highly recommend this reel.

From: Rodney: Gainesville 9/2/17

Comments:This reel is right on par with my Mentanium and that's saying something! I have around 25 rods that I rotate depending on conditions and my newest 3 have this MGL.

From: Paul: TX 8/1/17

Comments:Smoothest reel I have ever used. Casts a mile, and can be tuned within a couple of minutes. No backlashes at all. Feels very durable as well! 10/10

From: Andrew: Arkansas 7/26/17

Comments:This reel casts like a dream, I've had several Daiwas and Curados. This is probably the best casting reel I've had. I can literally bomb it to the middle of ponds if I shore fish, really thinking about getting another one. Nothing fancy, just a superb reel.

From: Jimmy: Chicago 7/22/17

Comments: A great all around reel. I have used Chronarchs for a lot of years and this one is fantastic. I have it on a G Loomis 7'1" MH NRX rod and it is an awesome combination. Super light, great balance, and is a pleasure to fish with. You cannot go wrong with this reel. It costs a little more, but worth every penny. Tight Lines !!!!

From: Bill G: Homosassa, Florida 7/22/17

Comments:Great Reel! Has made many improvements from the CI4+. First off it is a lot quieter than the CI4 when casting. This reel is extremely smooth when casting a reeling! This reel is very hard to backlash and throws baits like a dream! Pretty light reel too! Paired mine with a Dobyns Fury 703c. Great setup for throwings 1/4 to 1/2 jigs, texas rigs, senkos, flukes, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits pretty much anything! Favorite reel in my arsenal! Would highly recommend this reel! SHIMANO FOR LIFE!!

From: Cavan: VA 6/30/17

Comments:Shimano hit it out of the park with this one. I pre-ordered two of these whenever they announced them. After getting them and fishing them, I quickly bought two more. These are a nice step up from the previous ci4 version. Lightweight, smooth casting, great braking system, reliable drag, good line capacity. I can't say anything bad about these reels. The new MGL spool on this reel makes me feel like I have more control over a bait during the cast than any other reel I've ever used. I'm even willing to say that I like my ChMGL's better than my Metanium MGL's

From: Seth - Pittsburgh, PA 6/27/17

Comments: This reel is amazing. The new improvements with the micro module gear system makes this a lot better and i think it looks better now that its all titanium color instead of the red. Super smooth and feels sooooo comfotable in your hand. I paired it up with my 7 foot heavy gloomis glx forbmy jig and texas rig set up. I have a metanium dc and excense dc and i think this reel almost beats out these other 2 reels and there $120+ more. For the price there isnt a better reel out there. Ive held all felt all the other ones by lews and abu garcia and diawa etc... there is a reason all my reels are shimano. They are deffinitly worth the price.

From: Kyle: California 7/1/17

Comments:That MGL spool is killer! Been using this reel for almost 2 months now. Started this reel off as my jig/flippin baits combo and it performed amazingly in thick pads and vegetation. Now it's my frogging reel and it's AMAZING! Great price for this reel, look around enough on the web and you can get one for a really nice price ;] Great reel! I also have the Metanium MGL and Casitas MGL. These MGL reels are a must have! Great reels and great prices! You definitely get what you pay for.

From: XENKO 6/30/17

Comments:This is an amazing reel super smooth and strong I love shimano, I caught four pound bass with this and it handle it very easily.

From: Unknown - 6/25/17

Comments:This is my third shimano reel. I have had this reel for about a month now and it is super smooth.
I've caught between 50 and 100 fish on this reel the biggest was a 4 pound largemouth on a shake head.
I would highly recommend this reel to any for a 150 size reel it is very light. I think I am going to get the curado next. Another great reel by shimano.

From: Unknown - 6/25/17

Comments:Since the Chronarch 200 E series, I couldn't find a shimano reel that was worth owning to me until this reel dropped. This reel is light, and from what I've found, you can cast 20 lb flourocarbon all the way down to the spool if you wanted to do it! Very smooth, and you can't feel the gears! when you spin the handle, it feels like it's floating on bearings! Very good reel for a good price!

From: Trey - Jasper, TX

Comments:This reel with my old style loomis glx is the sickest and most comfortable combo that i have. Super smooth and the chronarch and metanium are by far the most comfortable reels ive ever held. And Ive held just about every reel on this website since i use to work at a fishing store. I like this better then the metanium cause yes its expensive but it doesnt ruin my bank account and is almost the same qulity as the metanium

From: Kyle 6/16/17

Comments:I have to admit I have always been loyal to another brand and never understood all of the Shimano hype. I purchased this reel due to the incredible reviews and wanted to try it out. This reel is amazing. It is way smoother than other reels I own from other companies, even the higher priced ones. Although I have other reels that cast further, the difference is not much. The profile of the reel fits my hand better, and swear I gain sensitivity from the rod because of it. Retrieve is the smoothest I have ever felt and I have to really try to get this reel to backlash. This is my new favorite reel for skipping. The Chrinarch has made me a Shimano nerd, and now I am looking to replace my collection. This is a must buy for any angler!

From: Mike: Richmond 6/14/17

Comments: I was planning on getting a Chronarch MGL and a Metanium this year. After just one cast I scrapped any plans to get the Metanium. This reel is the finest reel I've fished with. Casts a mile with little effort, pitches further than any reel, and is smooth as butter. I've fished with a friends Metanium and quite honestly think the Chronarch feels better. I agree with previous reviewer that if you are deciding on a Chronarch vs. any other reel and go with the other reel, never pick up a Chronarch. You'll regret not getting one.

From: Unknown 6/10/17

Comments:Had a chance to take this new reel out last Saturday. This is the very first baitcaster I've ever used. I spent a few weeks kicking around the idea of buying a less expensive reel by a different company by suggestion. Since I have nothing to compare this to I don't know how to compare this is over other reels. However, I can tell you that I've never felt a reel so buttery smooth as this. No clicks or grinding on the retrieve. And wow it can cast far. A few backlashes that were my fault as I try to figure out how to use this thing lol. My uncle who is a serious tourney angler said that I spoiled myself by starting off on a reel of this caliber. He's a die-hard Abu guy and after he tried my new reel he told me it was the smoothest he had ever felt too. He has 13 rods in his Ranger boat but not a single Shimano reel. I'm glad I made the purchase and didn't go with a lesser caliber baitcaster.

From: Unkonwn 6/6/17

Comments:First, this price reaches a higher quality reel across the board. You will have a nice reel with this amount of money, however... If you buy something besides this reel the day you finally try a Chronarch you will be disappointed in the purchase you made besides the Chronarch. Do yourself a favor. If you are on the fence about which reel to buy test this one before you make your purchase. Trust me I know.

From: WildBill: GA 5/17/17

Comments:this is quite possibly the best setup i have ever owned. i paired mine with the Favorite Rod Lunker TV edition medium rod. lets just say that i was casting one day. i had it spooled with braid. i barely swung it and it flew into my neighbors yard. (sorry neighbors) the pitching is amazing. i can pitch almost 20 yards with it. great for spinnerbaits (caught a 3.7 on a spinnerbait at a local, busy pond) weighted texas rigs, bladed jigs, and pretty much anything else if the rod can handle it.

From: Will: Virginia 5/17/17

Comments:I love the improvements shimano made to this chronarch. The micro module gearing and magnum-lite spool make casting and retrieving effortless. I have it atop a 7ft MH fast St.Croix Avid-X and it is super light and sensitive for grass jigs and T-rigs. Would highly recommend. The casting of the reel is much quieter than the old CI4+ chronarch. I would highly recommend.

From: Lex: Minnesota 4/16/17

Comments:This reel is the smoothest reel I have! It is so high quality and by far the nicest reel I own. Defiantly worth it!

From: Conner: San Diego 2/28/17

Comments:Great reel. The improvements from the last model really stand out to me. The ci4+ is still a good reel but this is definitely a big improvement with the new brakes, extra bearing, micro module gears, and the magnum light spool. I would definelty recommend saving up and spending the 280$ for this amazing reel that will last forever.

From: Chris: New canaan 2/27/17