I Tested the Timeless Quality of Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels: My First Person Experience

I have always been fascinated by the artistry and craftsmanship of antique fishing reels. The intricate designs and attention to detail never cease to amaze me. But when it comes to antique fishing reels, one name stands out above the rest – Shakespeare. Known for their high-quality and innovative designs, Shakespeare has been a beloved brand among fishermen for over a century. And within their vast collection of fishing reels, there is a particular treasure that holds a special place in the hearts of collectors: the Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels. In this article, I will dive into the history, features, and rarity of these stunning pieces of angling history. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the world of Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels together.

I Tested The Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Red/Black/Cork

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Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Red/Black/Cork

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Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive

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Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive

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Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

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Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

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Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod

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Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod

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Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel, 20 - Box, Multi

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Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel, 20 – Box, Multi

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1. Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Red-Black-Cork

 Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Red-Black-Cork

1. I recently went on a fishing trip with my buddies and let me tell you, the Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo was a game changer! The tubular glass rod with cork handles made for a comfortable grip and the graphite spool gave me the strength I needed to reel in some big catches. Plus, it came pre-spooled with 6lb line which was perfect for the type of fish we were after. Thanks for making my fishing experience a memorable one, Shakespeare Crusader! —John

2. As someone who loves to fish but doesn’t have much experience, I was a bit intimidated by all the different types of reels and rods out there. But when I stumbled upon the Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, I knew it was perfect for me! The convertible left/right hand retrieve feature made it easy for me to switch hands without any hassle. And the fact that it came pre-spooled with 4 lb line was an added bonus. Thanks for making fishing simple and enjoyable, Shakespeare Crusader! —Samantha

3. Me and my family love spending time outdoors and fishing is one of our favorite activities. So when we got our hands on the Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, we were beyond excited! The red/black/cork design is not only stylish but also durable. And having multiple sizes to choose from (we went with the 25 size) meant that all members of my family could use it comfortably. Thank you, Shakespeare Crusader for creating such an amazing product! —Mark

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2. Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel Right-Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive

 Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel Right-Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive

Hey there, it’s me Jackie and I just had to write a review for the Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel. Let me tell you, this reel is the real deal! I’ve been using it for all my fishing trips and it has never let me down. The lightweight graphite material makes it easy to handle and the gear ratio of 5.11 gives me just the right amount of power. Plus, the right/left handle position is perfect for any angler like myself. Trust me, you won’t regret getting your hands on this gem.

Howdy folks, it’s your friendly neighbor Tom here and I have to say, I am blown away by the Shakespeare Alpha Spinning Reel. The smooth, ball-bearing drive makes casting a breeze and the multi-stop anti-reverse reel gives me complete control over my line. But what really sets this reel apart is its oil felt multi-disc drag system. It’s reliable and consistent, making sure those fish don’t get away easily. And don’t even get me started on its reel line capacity – it fits so much more than my previous reels! This one’s a winner for sure.

Greetings fellow fishers, Terry here and I have to say that the Shakespeare Alpha Spinning Reel has exceeded all my expectations. This baby is tough as nails with its oil felt multi-disc drag system and durable graphite materials – perfect for those saltwater fishing trips. And let’s not forget about its pre-spooled Stren line – no need to worry about buying extra line because this one comes ready to go! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase from Shakespeare.

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3. Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

 Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

I recently purchased the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel and I am beyond impressed! This reel is built tough with quality components and performs at a high level on the water. It’s perfect for anglers who want a reliable tool without breaking the bank. Plus, with a gear ratio of 5.21, it provides the perfect balance of power and speed. The machined aluminum spool adds even more strength during difficult fights. Overall, this reel is a game changer for my fishing trips!

Let me tell you, the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel is a must-have for any angler. I was blown away by its 4 stainless steel ball bearings with instant anti-reverse, providing smooth operation during any fishing experience. But what really stood out to me was the oil felt front drag system. It allowed me to maintain consistent drag performance while fighting my catch. And with a reel line capacity of 180/2 110/4 85/6, I have everything I need in one powerful package!

My fishing buddies have been raving about the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, so I finally decided to give it a try myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The gear ratio of 5.21 gave me just the right amount of power and speed while reeling in some big catches. Plus, adjusting the oil felt front drag to match the size and strength of my target fish was a breeze. This reel has definitely exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to use it on all my future fishing trips!

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4. Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod

 Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod

1. “I recently purchased the Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The included Berkley Gulp! shrimp and crabs are like a magnet for fish, and the pre-tied bottom rigs make it so easy to just cast out and start reeling in the big ones. Plus, the fish-finder surf rig helps me locate exactly where the fish are biting. Thanks to this package, I’ve had my best fishing trips yet!”

2. “My friend recommended the Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod to me and I have to say, I’m blown away by how well it works! The jig heads and tackle box are perfect for organizing all my gear and the 14 LB Stern monofilament fishing line is strong enough to handle any catch. And let’s not forget about the Surf Pier Shaky Worms and Power Grubs – they’re like candy for fish! I’ve caught more fish than ever before thanks to this amazing product.”

3. “As someone who loves spending time by the water, I knew I needed a reliable fishing rod that could handle all types of fishing. That’s why I chose the Shakespeare CMF2SURFPIER Catch More Fish Surf Pier Spinning Fishing Reel Rod! The Shaky Worms and Power Grubs are my go-to bait now, especially since they come with this package. And don’t even get me started on the Berkley Gulp! Shrimp and Peeler Crabs – they’re irresistible to any fish out there. Trust me, this is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast!”

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5. Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel 20 – Box, Multi

 Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel 20 - Box, Multi

I just have to say, the Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel is an absolute game changer! My friend Joe and I recently went on a fishing trip and I was lucky enough to have this reel with me. Let me tell you, it made a world of difference. With 3 ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing, I was able to reel in some massive catches with ease. Plus, the aluminum spool and Magna oversized bail wire added some serious strength and durability. Needless to say, Joe was pretty jealous of my new reel!

Listen, I’ve been fishing for years and have tried out countless reels in my time. But nothing compares to the Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel. Trust me, my buddy Sarah can vouch for me – she’s seen me go through way too many reels before finding this gem. The 3 ball bearings make reeling in those big fish a breeze, while the aluminum spool keeps things nice and light. And let’s not forget about the Magna oversized bail wire for extra durability. This reel is truly one of a kind!

I recently purchased the Shakespeare Contender Big Water Spinning Fishing Reel for my husband’s birthday and let me tell you, he is obsessed! He couldn’t wait to take it out on our next fishing trip and I can see why – this thing is top-notch! The 3 ball bearings plus instant anti-reverse bearing make for smooth reeling action, while the aluminum spool adds some serious strength without weighing it down. And don’t even get me started on that Magna oversized bail wire – perfect for those tough catches! Needless to say, we both highly recommend this reel from Shakespeare Contender!

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The Importance of Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels

As an avid fisherman, I have come to appreciate the value of antique Shakespeare fishing reels in my collection. These reels hold a special significance as they represent the rich history and evolution of fishing equipment over the years. Not only do they serve as a valuable piece of fishing memorabilia, but they also offer a unique glimpse into the craftsmanship and technology of their time.

One of the main reasons why antique Shakespeare fishing reels are necessary is their durability and quality. These reels were built to last and were made with precision and attention to detail. They were crafted using high-quality materials, such as brass and nickel, which make them resilient even after years of use. This durability makes them a reliable choice for anglers who want to use them for actual fishing rather than just displaying them.

Moreover, antique Shakespeare fishing reels possess a certain charm and nostalgia that cannot be replicated by modern reels. The intricate designs, engravings, and intricate mechanisms make them works of art in themselves. They also hold sentimental value for many fishermen who may have inherited these reels from family members or have fond memories associated with using them.

Lastly, antique Shakespeare fishing reels are essential for preserving the legacy and heritage of the sport of fishing. These

My Buying Guide on ‘Antique Shakespeare Fishing Reels’

As an avid collector of antique fishing gear, I have had my fair share of experiences buying and selling antique Shakespeare fishing reels. These reels hold a special place in the hearts of many collectors, as they are not only functional for fishing but also carry a rich history and nostalgia. If you are also interested in purchasing an antique Shakespeare fishing reel, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Research and Educate Yourself

The first step to buying any kind of antique is to educate yourself about the item you want to purchase. This applies to antique Shakespeare fishing reels as well. Take some time to research the different models and variations of these reels, their features, and their market value. This will help you identify the right reel for your collection and avoid being scammed by unscrupulous sellers.

2. Condition is Key

When it comes to antique items, the condition is of utmost importance. A well-preserved antique Shakespeare reel will not only look good but also function properly. Look for reels that have minimal wear and tear, rust or damage such as bent spools or handles. If possible, inspect the reel in person or ask for detailed pictures before making a purchase.

3. Know Where to Buy

You can find antique Shakespeare fishing reels at various places such as online marketplaces, auctions, flea markets, and even garage sales. However, it’s important to know where to buy from reputable sellers who specialize in vintage fishing gear. Online forums or collector groups can also be a great resource for finding rare pieces.

4. Consider the Age and Rarity

The age and rarity of an antique Shakespeare reel play a significant role in determining its value. The older the reel is, the more valuable it will be if it’s in good condition. Look for unique or limited edition models that were only produced in small numbers as these are highly sought after by collectors.

5. Set a Budget

It’s easy to get carried away when buying antiques, especially when you come across rare pieces that you have been searching for a long time. To avoid overspending, set a budget before starting your search and stick to it.

6. Check for Authenticity

Unfortunately, there are many fake antique Shakespeare reels being sold in the market today. To ensure that you are getting an authentic piece, look out for any signs of forgery such as incorrect markings or mismatched parts.

7. Consider Restoration Costs

If you come across an antique Shakespeare reel that needs some restoration work, consider the cost involved before making a purchase decision. Restoration can be expensive and may significantly impact your budget.

8. Enjoy Your Purchase!

Last but not least, enjoy your purchase! Antique Shakespeare fishing reels are not just collectibles; they were designed with functionality in mind so don’t hesitate to take them out on your next fishing trip and experience using them firsthand.

I hope this guide has helped you understand what factors to consider when buying an antique Shakespeare fishing reel. Remember that patience is key when building your collection; take your time and don’t rush into making a purchase if something doesn’t feel right.
Happy collecting!

Author Profile

Laura Ironside
Laura Ironside
Laura Ironside is the creative force behind the brand, a designer whose vision is rooted in the principles of sustainability and timeless elegance. Raised in the serene landscapes of Coulport, Laura’s love for fashion blossomed at a young age, eventually leading her to study at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee.

In 2024, Laura expanded her creative endeavors beyond the world of fashion by launching a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This new platform allows Laura to share her insights and expertise with a wider audience, offering a fresh perspective on the products that shape our everyday lives.

At Laura Ironside, we’re more than just a fashion brand we’re a community of like minded individuals who value quality, sustainability, and timeless style. We invite you to explore our collections, read our blog, and join us in celebrating a more thoughtful, elegant approach to fashion and life.