Daiwa has refreshed one of its most popular reel series. The new Daiwa 26 BG (Black Gold) comes in two lines — the lighter, more versatile 26 BG LT and the robust sea-fishing 26 BG SW — and both carry Daiwa’s series motto: "Born for Big Game". Below, we look at what they offer, how they differ and who they are for.
Daiwa 26 BG LT – light and strong for versatile spinning
Looking for a reel that is light enough for all-day spinning, yet strong enough for serious fish? The 26 BG LT is built around Daiwa’s AIRDRIVE concept (lighter rotor, hollow bail and more balanced operation), with:
- ATD Tough drag (up to 12 kg) – smooth and consistent under load, without sudden jolts.
- TOUGH DIGIGEAR – a durable gear for long-lasting smooth power transmission.
- ABS LongCast aluminium spool – longer, tidier casts, with a rubber ring to prevent braided line slippage.
- Twist Buster III line roller – less line twist; No-Paint body finish for better scratch resistance; screw-in handle with T-knob.
It comes in sizes 4000 and 5000, each in a standard (D-C) and fast (D-CXH) version — choose according to whether you want more power or faster retrieve. Price from €141.90.
Daiwa 26 BG SW – sea-fishing power for demanding angling
26 BG SW is the heavy-duty sea-fishing version for targeting powerful fish and working under high loads. It is based on the POWERDRIVE design:
- Oversized Power Digigear + G1 duralumin gearing – more power and durability when winding heavy loads.
- Sealed body – reduces the ingress of saltwater and dirt, for a longer service life at sea.
- ATD Tough drag with carbon washers (up to 15 kg on the larger sizes) and Crank Power Bail for reliable line control.
- ABS LongCast SW spool with a rubber ring to prevent braided line slippage.
Available in sizes 5000, 6000 and 8000 (in P and faster H versions). Price from €154.60.
Which one should you choose?
- 26 BG LT – lighter spinning in freshwater and lighter saltwater use, all-day lure casting, predator fishing.
- 26 BG SW – sea fishing, bigger and stronger fish, heavier tackle and boat/shore fishing where power reserves and salt resistance are needed.
View and order:
- Daiwa 26 BG LT – light spinning reel (4000 / 5000)
- Daiwa 26 BG SW – sea reel (5000 / 6000 / 8000)
Frequently asked questions
Q: Do I get a mug with every reel?
A: Yes — when you buy any reel from the 26 BG or 26 BG SW series, you receive one "Born for Big Game" mug, delivered together with your order, while gift stocks last.
Q: What is the difference between 26 BG LT and 26 BG SW?
A: The LT is a lighter, versatile spinning reel (AIRDRIVE, up to 12 kg drag); the SW is a more robust sea-fishing version (POWERDRIVE, sealed body, stronger gearing, larger sizes and more powerful drag).
Q: What do "C" and "XH" mean in the size name?
A: C is the standard gear ratio, while XH (Extra High) is the faster version with more line retrieved per handle turn — the choice depends on your technique and retrieve speed.
