Shimano Speedmaster 12II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reel

Overview

The Shimano Speedmaster 12II is a compact 2-speed lever drag overhead reel designed for offshore fishing, jigging, and light tackle game fishing. Built around Shimano’s rigid HAGANE metal body, it delivers excellent strength and smooth drag performance when fighting powerful fish like kingfish, tuna, and smaller marlin.

Its two-speed gearbox allows anglers to switch from a fast retrieve to a powerful low gear when lifting heavy fish from depth or when the fight turns vertical.

Key Features

• 2-Speed Gearbox – High gear for quick retrieve, low gear for cranking power
• HAGANE Body – Rigid metal frame to eliminate flex under heavy load
• Cross Carbon Drag – Smooth, powerful drag performance
• S-A-RB Bearings – Shielded anti-rust bearings for saltwater durability
• Super Free Spool – Reduces friction for better casting and freespool performance

Specifications

• Gear Ratio: 5.7:1 (High) / 3.1:1 (Low)
• Max Drag: 18 kg
• Weight: ~730 g
• Retrieve per Crank: 107 cm (high) / ~58 cm (low)
• Bearings: 4 + 1
• Braid Capacity: approx. 50 lb / 580 yd, 65 lb / 400 yd, 80 lb / 355 yd

Ideal For

• Mechanical jigging
• Live baiting for kingfish
• Light tackle trolling
• Tuna and striped marlin setups

Many anglers pair the Speedmaster 12II with PE6–PE8 rods for jigging or with 24–37 kg trolling outfits when targeting medium pelagic species