The ‘GEKKABIJIN’ spinning reel, designed specifically for light saltwater fishing, combines light weight with high rigidity.
In every situation encountered when fishing with lightweight lures in light saltwater fishing, the superior manoeuvrability offered by AIRDRIVE DESIGN is a major advantage.
In particular, the lightweight, low-inertia AIRDRIVE ROTOR—a key technology of AIRDRIVE DESIGN—has brought about a dramatic improvement in reeling sensitivity, enabling the reel to reliably detect even the most subtle bites that were previously imperceptible.
The AIRDRIVE ROTOR, with its unique shape that appears to have been carved directly from a sphere—and without any screws—combined with the AIRDRIVE BAIL, which features an optimised angle setting, significantly reduces line tangles. This trouble-free performance ensures a stress-free fishing experience when using light lines.
Whilst achieving a lightweight design of 165g, the use of a MONOCOQUE BODY ensures high rigidity.
The ATD TYPE-L drag system has been adopted. By improving the initial response of the drag, tracking performance has been significantly enhanced. In light saltwater fishing, where ultra-fine lines are frequently used, minimising lost fish and line breaks is a major advantage.
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Experience superior reeling sensitivity and manoeuvrability. The ‘GEKKABIJIN’, designed exclusively for light saltwater fishing.
DAIWA Technology

AIRDRIVE DESIGN
The AIRDRIVE DESIGN is a next-generation spinning reel design philosophy that pursues the ability for anglers to manoeuvre Lures precisely as they wish. The AIRDRIVE DESIGN comprises up to four technologies. It requires the incorporation of an AIRDRIVE ROTOR, which ensures smooth reeling and produces highly responsive rotation, alongside a lightweight, trouble-free AIRDRIVE BAIL, a thin-walled AIRDRIVE SPOOL, which has been stripped of all unnecessary material to the absolute limit to achieve maximum lightness; and the AIRDRIVE SHAFT, which supports the main shaft with high-precision bushings and features a non-contact design with the pinion gear, enabling smooth, quiet reeling with minimal rotational noise even under heavy loads. The synergistic effect of these components, combined with improved weight balance within the reel, delivers a high level of manoeuvrability.
*The 23 GEKKABIJIN is equipped with AIRDRIVE ROTOR, AIRDRIVE BAIL and AIRDRIVE SPOOL.

AIRDRIVE ROTOR
Based on our proprietary theory, we have devised a new shape that appears as though it has been cut directly from a sphere; by then thoroughly trimming away all unnecessary material, we have achieved a significant reduction in weight whilst maintaining rigidity. The ease of reeling has improved dramatically, leading to enhanced manoeuvrability and sensitivity.

AIRDRIVE BAIL
The AIRBAIL, which has traditionally utilised a hollow-pipe structure to provide rigidity and lightness, has been redesigned with a smaller diameter whilst maintaining the necessary strength, in order to achieve even greater weight reduction. The bail has been set at an optimal angle to ensure the line transitions more smoothly from the bail to the line roller. This delivers even greater lightness and trouble-free operation.

AIRDRIVE SPOOL
A thin-walled design that trims away unnecessary material to achieve the ultimate in weight reduction. Weight has been thoroughly minimised, not only through the thin-walled design of the spool skirt but also through the use of internal spool cut-outs. The lighter spool improves manoeuvrability, such as the ease of reeling and casting action. Furthermore, the low-friction drag mechanism enhances responsiveness when the drag is engaged.

MONOCOQUE BODY
Robust and durable technology: the MONOCOQUE BODY. Conventional spinning reels typically featured a design in which the drive gear was supported at both ends by the body and the body cover, and secured in place with several screws. Aiming to further improve precision and rigidity, the MONOCOQUE BODY eliminates the body cover and instead secures a high-precision plate directly to the body by screwing it in. This has enhanced the precision with which the gears are supported, whilst also improving rigidity and airtightness. Furthermore, by utilising the space previously occupied by screws, we have succeeded in maximising the size of the drive gear to the absolute limit. The term ‘MONOCOQUE BODY’ derives from ‘MONO’ (one) and ‘COQUE’ (shell). This entirely new design, symbolising the resilience of a single-piece shell, shatters conventional wisdom regarding reel construction.

ZAION V
Making reels lighter and stronger. The Zion V was developed precisely for this purpose using a carbon hybrid resin. By meticulously controlling the proportion of carbon in the hybrid composition, it achieves a high level of lightweight performance that surpasses that of metal, whilst offering strength on a par with metal. It also boasts the versatility to be fitted to a wide range of reels, thereby embodying the very essence of Zion—which can be described as the ‘MAX spec’ of carbon hybrid resin.

TOUGH DIGIGEAR
To withstand harsh conditions, a reel needs a robust core to support it. ‘TOUGH DIGIGEAR’ ensures smoother rotation for longer.

MAGSEALED
DAIWA’s unique waterproof design creates a barrier of magnetic oil between the body and the rotor to prevent the ingress of seawater, dust and other contaminants.

ATD TYPE-L
The ATD operates smoothly in response to the fish’s pull and maintains a consistent drag. The ATD TYPE-L offers enhanced initial response. Designed to prioritise smooth engagement and tracking, it allows you to concentrate on the fight without worrying about drag settings.

LC-ABS (Long Cast ABS)
Whilst retaining the ABS II design philosophy of reducing contact resistance, the contacts have been moved forward to achieve smoother line release. As the ring section protrudes further forward, the line is less likely to ride up onto the ring; this has resulted in a cast distance increase of approximately 5 per cent compared to the conventional ABS II, whilst also improving reliability. A next-generation ABS spool that delivers LC (LONG CAST).
Product Details
Body with no stoppers
‘Towards even greater lightness and trouble-free operation’
The body structure has been simplified by removing the stopper. The decision to remove the stopper—which acts as a pathway for water and foreign matter to enter—not only reduces weight and improves water resistance but also minimises the risk of sudden problems arising in harsh environments or when dealing with the Big One.
The body structure has been simplified by removing the stopper. The decision to remove the stopper—which acts as a pathway for water and foreign matter to enter—not only reduces weight and improves water resistance but also minimises the risk of sudden problems arising in harsh environments or when dealing with the Big One.
Perfect line stopper
A new-design line stopper compatible with both fine lines, such as PE, and thicker lines, such as leaders. Its horizontal shape saves space in the vertical direction and also helps to reduce the weight of the spool.
HG-I finesse knob
It features the ‘HG-I finesse knob’, which is ideal for delicate fishing. The improved sensitivity when reeling in offers a significant advantage in light saltwater fishing.
Designed for high grip, it ensures a firm grip and ease of handling despite its compact, lightweight design. To achieve weight reduction, an integrated knob cap structure has been adopted.
*Please use a 2.5 mm hex key to remove the handle knob.
Designed for high grip, it ensures a firm grip and ease of handling despite its compact, lightweight design. To achieve weight reduction, an integrated knob cap structure has been adopted.
*Please use a 2.5 mm hex key to remove the handle knob.
Item Overview
| items | Description |
|---|---|
| LT1000S | Recommended for ajing, where the reel capacity has been reduced to facilitate a slow retrieve using a single Jig. |
| LT2000S | A standard-gear model suitable for the widest range of light saltwater fishing scenarios. Recommended for anglers seeking versatility in mebaring and Mackerel fishing. |
| LT2000S-H | This model makes it easier to retrieve slack line after casting and when imparting action to the lure, making it ideal for fishing with float rigs or carolina rigs during Long Casting. |
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Locations where ball bearings are fitted
Equipped with 7BB
・Pinion section: 2BB (SUS)
・Drive Gear assembly: 2BB (SUS)
・Line Roller: 2 BBs (CRBB)
・Oscillation gear assembly: 1 BB (SUS)
・Pinion section: 2BB (SUS)
・Drive Gear assembly: 2BB (SUS)
・Line Roller: 2 BBs (CRBB)
・Oscillation gear assembly: 1 BB (SUS)
VIDEO
Accessories
・Reel bag
・Warning card
・Spool spacing washer
・Warning List (11 languages)
・Quick Start Guide (in four languages)
*Please note that the user manual for the 23 GEKKABIJIN is now available online.
・Warning card
・Spool spacing washer
・Warning List (11 languages)
・Quick Start Guide (in four languages)
*Please note that the user manual for the 23 GEKKABIJIN is now available online.
Product Specifications
| DESCRIPTION | Standard weight (g) | Line per handle turn (cm) | Gear ratio | Standard reel capacity: Nylon (lb-m) | Standard reel capacity (PE, No.-m) | Handle arm length (mm) | Bearings (BB/RB) | Maximum Drag Force (kg) | Handle Knob |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23GEKKABIJIN LT1000S | 165 | 64 | 5.1 | 2.5-100 | 0.3-200 | 40 | 7/1 | 5 | HG-I Finesse |
| 23GEKKABIJIN LT2000S | 165 | 67 | 5.1 | 3-150 | 0.4-200 | 45 | 7/1 | 5 | HG-I Finesse |
| 23GEKKABIJIN LT2000S-H | 165 | 76 | 5.8 | 3-150 | 0.4-200 | 50 | 7/1 | 5 | HG-I Finesse |
- The manufacturer's suggested retail price is listed excluding tax.
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*Please note that the SLP W Type α Spool RD and GD models are not supported due to structural issues.
*The reel capacity is a guide only and may vary depending on the manufacturer, items and line tension.
*The retrieve length is the amount of line wound in with each handle rotation.