A new fishing reel has recently hit the market, and it’s already turning heads.
The DAIWA 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW was designed with one mission in mind – to elevate the bass fishing experience for serious anglers.
Combining advanced technology, lightweight design, and unparalleled performance, this reel has quickly established itself as a compelling option for bass enthusiasts looking for precision and versatility.
What makes it stand out? Let’s dive in and explore the key features that make this reel such an interesting addition to the STEEZ lineup.
Let’s take a closer look at the key features of the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW and what sets it apart from its predecessors.
Key Features for The Light SV Concept
The 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW brings a new level of performance to the world of bass fishing.
As a part of DAIWA’s SV CONCEPT, it is designed for ultra-smooth and precise casting, with an emphasis on light tackle and finesse fishing.
The reel features several upgraded technologies that deliver a high level of control and durability, even in demanding fishing environments.
- SV BOOST:
Provides extended casting distance and smoother post-cast performance, especially for lightweight lures. This feature allows anglers to make precise casts, even in high-pressure fishing situations. - HyperDrive Design:
With HyperDrive Digigear, HyperDouble Support, and HyperArmed Housing, this reel maintains enhanced smoothness and durability, even under heavy loads. - UltimateCasting Design:
Featuring cutting-edge technologies such as MAGFORCE electromagnetic braking, Tapered TWS (new-shape T-Wing System), and a G1 Duralumin spool, the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW offers excellent casting performance with minimal backlash.
A Double Extra High-Speed Gear Model with a Gear Ratio of 9.2
One of the most notable points of this Light SV model is the introduction of the XXH model.
Despite having a relatively small spool diameter of 32mm, this ultra-high-speed model comes with a gear ratio of 9.2 and a maximum line retrieval rate of 92cm.
It significantly speeds up the recovery of line slack after casting and the retrieval of rigs, shortening the time from cast to action start and improving overall efficiency.
This allows anglers to achieve the high-speed performance typically associated with XH spinning reels while enjoying the control of a baitcasting setup.
It is truly a lightning-fast model.
VS 24 STEEZ SV TW
When comparing the 24 STEEZ SV TW with the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW, the difference in specifications is actually minimal.
Both reels share the same weight, spool size, braking systems, and core features.
The primary difference lies in the shallower spool of the 26 model, resulting in reduced line capacity.
According to the official specifications, this change results in a 14.8% reduction in weight once line is spooled.
The 24 model weighs 21.6 grams, while the 26 model weighs 18.4 grams — a difference of 2.2 grams.
At first, this might suggest that the spool itself has been significantly lightened. However, the more likely explanation is simply the reduced amount of line.
While the actual spool weights haven’t been measured yet, it appears that the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW functions essentially as a shallow-spool version of the 24 STEEZ.
For most anglers, owning both models may not be necessary.
Those focusing on lighter lures (around 10g or less) will likely find the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW more suitable, while anglers regularly using mid-range lures (around 10–15g) may prefer the versatility of the 24 STEEZ.
If the spools are indeed interchangeable, then the final deciding factor becomes gear ratio.
Spec and Release Date
As mentioned above, the specs are almost identical to the 100-size Steez, so we believe the body size is likely the same as the 100-size as well.
However, since it features a shallow spool, the line capacity is somewhat limited: with mono: 8lb 40–80m, with braid: PE1.5 100m.
One standout feature is the gear ratio choices—either 7.8 or 9.2, which makes this model quite specialized.
The 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW was released in late December 2025, marking the early arrival of DAIWA’s 2026 baitcasting reel lineup.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight (g) | Line Retrieve (cm/handle turn) | Max Drag (kg) | Spool dia/width (mm) | Line Capacity PE (Gou-m) | Line Capacity Fluoro (lb-m) | Handle Length (mm) | Bearings (Ball/Roller) | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW 100H | 7.8 | 160 | 78 | 5 | 32 / 22.5 | 1-140, 1.5-100 | 8-40～80, 12-25～50 | 85 | 12/1 | 79,500 |
| 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW 100HL | 7.8 | 160 | 78 | 5 | 32 / 22.5 | 1-140, 1.5-100 | 8-40～80, 12-25～50 | 85 | 12/1 | 79,500 |
| 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW 100XXH | 9.2 | 160 | 92 | 5 | 32 / 22.5 | 1-140, 1.5-100 | 8-40～80, 12-25～50 | 85 | 12/1 | 79,500 |
| 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW 100XXHL | 9.2 | 160 | 92 | 5 | 32 / 22.5 | 1-140, 1.5-100 | 8-40～80, 12-25～50 | 85 | 12/1 | 79,500 |
Conclusions
Based on its specifications, the 26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW is best viewed as a finesse-oriented variation of the 24 STEEZ.
Whether it’s worth adding to your lineup depends heavily on your preferred lure weights and fishing style.
Comparing it directly with the 24 STEEZ in real-world use will be interesting, but picking up both is certainly a serious investment.
Either way, the evolution of the STEEZ family continues — and this Light SV model has already secured its place within it.
