Was just browsing on JDM Tackle Heaven and they have placeholders for a Shimano 2022 Aldebaran with a release date of April.

 

Wonder if a USDM version will follow….

The platform is already so good for BFS a true ultra light spool could make this a killer reel. 

The left hand models seem to be generally available now.  Right, not so much - but I just preordered 22 ALDEBARAN BFS XG RIGHT to get near the head of the queue.

Another option:  

https://japanlureshop.com/reel/shimano/shimano-baitcasting/17calcutta-conquest-bfs-hg.html

On 1/14/2022 at 6:00 AM, TNBankFishing said:

The platform is already so good for BFS a true ultra light spool could make this a killer reel. 

 

The 2016 BFS JDM version already had a true ultra light spool.  Hopefully the 2022 BFS JDM version will be a worthy update.

Some people have gotten ahold of one already, it will cast 1g no problem providing the rod tip flexes enough for that light of weight.  Hobie Wan Kenobi on YouTube is one I can think of off the top of my head.

 

 

21 hours ago, redmeansdistortion said:

Some people have gotten ahold of one already, it will cast 1g no problem providing the rod tip flexes enough for that light of weight. [stuff deleted]

 

That looks like a lefty which is commonly available as I noted earlier.  Right handed versions are much more scarce or entirely unavailable.  I'll let you know how it works based upon empirical evidence when it arrives.

Right hand version has shipped from Japan!

2022 Aldebaran BFS vs 2018.  Newer one is on top.

I will be very interested to hear if it is worth the upgrade.

2 minutes ago, Rodney Smith said:

I will be very interested to hear if it is worth the upgrade.

watch it in reel test channel.

 

37 minutes ago, Rodney Smith said:

I will be very interested to hear if it is worth the upgrade.

 

The gearing feels a bit smoother.  I like the cosmetics of the older model better. Not really a necessary upgrade but it's fine if you want to try it. The slightly shorter handle is a downgrade though.

After a bit of use, I definitely like the 2016 Aldebaran BFS XG or 18 Aldebaran MGL 30HG models better.  Nothing significantly better in the newest BFS model, but the now fully exposed drag dial is annoying while palming the reel.  Ergonomics trump newness.

Would be in my bucket list if they got a brass alloy gearing.

On 5/5/2022 at 3:16 PM, QED said:

2022 Aldebaran BFS vs 2018.  Newer one is on top.

What rod do you have the Aldebaren BFS on?  I rally like the reel seat

3 hours ago, newyorktoiowa57 said:

What rod do you have the Aldebaren BFS on?  I rally like the reel seat

 

It's an old Shimano pistol grip graphite casting rod with an aluminum reel seat.  I still use it and it functions just fine.