The long-awaited evolution of DAIWA’s iconic round reel RYOGA has finally arrived.
Eight years after the 18 RYOGA, the 26 RYOGA was released this past December — and it’s everything “the winding faithful” have dreamed of.
Packed with DAIWA’s latest HYPERDRIVE DESIGN and refined mechanical balance, it delivers an impressive blend of smoothness, rigidity, and long-lasting performance.
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes the new RYOGA so special, what’s changed from the previous generation, and why this release may be the most exciting round reel of the decade.
Let’s take a closer look.
Key Technologies
The 26 RYOGA isn’t about reinventing the wheel — it’s about perfecting it.
DAIWA’s HYPERDRIVE DESIGN serves as the foundation, combining four major elements:
- HYPERDRIVE DIGIGEAR for durable, ultra-smooth rotation
- HYPER DOUBLE SUPPORT for power and effortless winding under load
- HYPER ARMED HOUSING (Full Aluminum) for unmatched rigidity and precision
- HYPER TOUGH CLUTCH for reliable operation, even in saltwater
Together, these systems create a reel that maintains its silky winding feel and structural integrity, cast after cast, season after season.
Evolution from the 18 RYOGA — 8 Years in the Making
This is not just a minor update — it’s a complete mechanical redesign.
The 26 RYOGA introduces HYPERDRIVE DIGIGEAR, replacing the previous HYPERMESH GEAR, resulting in smoother startup, improved durability, and reduced rotational fatigue over time.
Another major change is the braking system.
The former MAGFORCE Z has been replaced by BOOST SYSTEMS:
- SV BOOST for the SV 100 model (versatile and stable for lighter lures)
- MAG-Z BOOST for the 150 model (high-speed, distance-oriented for heavier lures)
This dual-approach philosophy makes it clear: the SV100 targets all-around, trouble-free control, while the 150 goes full throttle for power casting and distance.
That said, one point of curiosity remains — the 150 model now uses high-strength aluminum instead of the classic G1 duralumin spool used in the 100.
Why the shift to a seemingly “softer” metal for the larger reel?
It’s likely that the higher inertia and structural demands of the larger spool favored the rigidity and thermal stability of a thicker aluminum construction — something anglers will be keen to evaluate in real-world use.
It’s also worth noting that both models are slightly heavier than the 18 RYOGA.
The BOOST spool mechanism likely contributes to this increase, but considering the added performance and durability, it may be a reasonable trade-off.
Spec & Release Date
The 26 RYOGA lineup consists of two familiar sizes — the 100 size, which holds 100m of 16lb line, and the 150 size, which holds 100m of 20lb line.
Depending on the intended lure range, each size uses a different braking system: SV Boost for the 100 size and Mag-Z Boost for the 150.
Personally, the weight increase isn’t a major concern, though it’s hard not to notice that only the 150 size features an aluminum alloy spool.
The 26 RYOGA officially went on sale in December 2025, alongside other key models in DAIWA’s 2026 lineup.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight (g) | Line Retrieve (cm/handle turn) | Max Drag (kg) | Spool dia/width (mm) | Line Capacity Nylon (lb-m) | Line Capacity PE (Gou-m) | Handle Length (mm) | Bearings (Ball/Roller) | Body Material | Gear Material | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 RYOGA SV 100P | 5.3 | 265 | 56 | 6.0 | 34 / 24 | 12-100, 14-90, 16-80 | 2-150, 3-90 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 67,500 |
| 26 RYOGA SV 100PL | 5.3 | 265 | 56 | 6.0 | 34 / 24 | 12-100, 14-90, 16-80 | 2-150, 3-90 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 67,500 |
| 26 RYOGA SV 100 | 6.3 | 265 | 67 | 6.0 | 34 / 24 | 12-100, 14-90, 16-80 | 2-150, 3-90 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 67,500 |
| 26 RYOGA SV 100L | 6.3 | 265 | 67 | 6.0 | 34 / 24 | 12-100, 14-90, 16-80 | 2-150, 3-90 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 67,500 |
| 26 RYOGA 150P | 5.3 | 285 | 59 | 6.0 | 36 / 27 | 16-125, 20-100, 25-80 | 2-230, 3-150, 4-100 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 68,000 |
| 26 RYOGA 150PL | 5.3 | 285 | 59 | 6.0 | 36 / 27 | 16-125, 20-100, 25-80 | 2-230, 3-150, 4-100 | 90 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 68,000 |
| 26 RYOGA 150H | 7.3 | 290 | 82 | 6.0 | 36 / 27 | 16-125, 20-100, 25-80 | 2-230, 3-150, 4-100 | 100 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 68,000 |
| 26 RYOGA 150HL | 7.3 | 290 | 82 | 6.0 | 36 / 27 | 16-125, 20-100, 25-80 | 2-230, 3-150, 4-100 | 100 | 8/1 | AL | High-strength Brass | 68,000 |
Conclusion
So, what do you think?
It had been eight long years since the previous model, and this new design philosophy represents a clear move toward higher performance.
At the same time, the new Ryoga preserves its beautifully machined round body — unmistakably DAIWA — with subtle design cues that pay homage to its heritage.
For DAIWA fans who waited all these years, the new Ryoga is no longer just on the horizon — it’s already here.
And personally, I’m very excited to see how it performs on the water.
