HELP! Shimano Scorpion DC 2017 Problems

Quinner06 · January 21, 2018, 02:20:51 PM

Hey guys,

First time post, I've used the site a ton for information but just signed up today.

I finally got my Shimano Scorpion DC 2017 101HG reel this past week that I've been anxiously waiting for, however I've had big problems with it all 3 times I've taken it out. I easily get twice the amount of backlash (counterproductive to what it's supposed to help with) than I do clean casts and I also haven't heard the "whine" either which is concerning. I've watched all the reviews and read a ton about the reel so I am pretty familiar with the settings and brakes and what not. I have it spooled with 20lb braid (I have the internal brakes set on PE) and first started throwing a 3/8oz jig. I have used each of the external settings (A-4) and have had backlash on all of them, I have also tinkered with the spool tension knob which has helped a little but when tightened too much I don't get much distance (and have to hand peel line once it hits the water to get the lure into the water). I have had issues will other lures as well (crankbait, jerkbait, shakyhead) with trying many different combinations of settings. I've also tried treating it like I would with a normal reel settings wise and still get backlash, it isn't like I'm casting too hard (which shouldn't matter anyway?). I am really concerned because I've been looking forward to this reel so much and just have at zero luck using it, and I certainly want to hear that "whine"!

Any and all suggestions/comments would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Smallie_Stalker · January 21, 2018, 02:30:26 PM

Hey Quinner06 Welcome to the Ultimate Bass family! Glad you finally decided to officially join us. Pull up a chair, make yourself right at home and jump in wherever you feel comfortable.

Unfortunately I can't help you with your question but we have a couple of people here who work on reels and know Shimano inside and out so hopefully they will chime in soon.

If you would like to win some free gear from some of the great companies that sponsor our site be sure and put your name in for the New Member's Contest and the Weekly Contests .

Looking forward to seeing you around the boards and to learning from what you share with us.

In the meantime, if you need any help with anything at all please don't hesitate to contact me or any other staff member.

Once again, Welcome!

><> Smallie_Stalker <><

zippyduck · January 21, 2018, 03:17:37 PM

Welcome to UB!

Sorry not a Shiano guy but many are here and you should be getting advice soon.

Once you get it working right come on down to Catch of the day ad join our online tourney.

http://www.ultimatebass.com/bass-fishing-forum/index.php?topic=137133.0

Capt. BassinLou · January 21, 2018, 04:33:27 PM

Welcome to UB.

I have a DC-7 Shimano. Mine is not a 2017 however. I think its a 2011. Does your model have the I-N, I-F, I-P settings?

Depending on the line you are using, its recommended to have the proper setting. For example, for braid you use the I-P setting and then I adjust the reel as I would a regular reel, with the spool tension knob. As far as the whining sound. The DC scorpion, at least my model, does not have such a distinctive whine like lets say the DC Metanium, that reel whines.

Keep in mind just because its a DC doesn't mean it can't backlash. I would look at setting first. Spool tension knob adjustment, and the weight of the bait I'm using. If you are throwing a light bait on stiff rod, the DC will not cast light baits well.

Hopefully I shed some light on your issue. Good luck.

SFL BassHunter · January 21, 2018, 06:24:18 PM

Lou we have the 2011 model Which I think goes from 2011 to 2016. It might be a little different. But similar concept.

His has internal settings that care called: (F = fluorocarbon : PE = braid/polyethylene : N = nylon monofilament) and an external dial with the following (1-4 and A for Automatic)

Anywho, I don't think I can help with this post. One thing is for sure the 2011 model I have casts beautifully! Even extremely light baits.
What it does not do well is pitch. It really takes serious thumb work to pitch with it compared with my Tatula reels. I don't think the reel has enough time for the brakes to kick in when pitching.

The article I read does state that the "Whine" is back. So you should be hearing it. There is the possibility you got a dud.

Capt. BassinLou · January 21, 2018, 06:45:37 PM

Thanks Rick. I don't think my post helps... lol... I tried

SteelHorseCowboy · January 22, 2018, 04:51:12 PM

No Scorpion here, but my Curado seemed seriously hindered by the amount of factory grease that was packed into the bearings. It didn't seem to spin nearly as freely as I thought it should. Cleaning them out cured that.
Then I had to pair it with the right rod. Always on a tight budget, that means I had to shuffle around my existing equipment and re assign reels to rods, as I couldn't afford to just go get a new rod.
Also, I've pretty much completely abandoned the lighter braids I was using. I discussed braided lines here on the forum, learning a lot from the more experienced fishermen here. I came to the conclusion that the light braids I was using weren't laying right for me. Switched back to mono on two reels, 12#, 40# braid on three, and still using light braid on my UL spinning rig. I haven't had a backlash since.

SFL BassHunter · January 22, 2018, 05:47:08 PM

Well damn I overlooked the line.

20lb braid, backlash every other cast? Sounds like you might have braid digging into itself situation. SHC might be on to something there.

I stopped using anything less than 40 for that reason.

SteelHorseCowboy · January 22, 2018, 05:53:24 PM

Quote from: rickdelprado on January 22, 2018, 05:47:08 PM
Well damn I overlooked the line.

20lb braid, backlash every other cast? Sounds like you might have braid digging into itself situation. SHC might be on to something there.

I stopped using anything less than 40 for that reason.

Yep! My line was digging in too easily at moments, and laying too loosely at other moments.

You can see where I started coming to this decision at post #20.

http://www.ultimatebass.com/bass-fishing-forum/index.php?topic=139156.0

Mike Cork · January 23, 2018, 05:40:40 PM

Quinner06 first I'm going to assume it's a brand new reel. I mean it's possible that it's a used reel, but you talk like it's new.

Excessive back lashing is to much free spool for what you're casting. I would run the spool pretty tight for trouble shooting. So I would set for proper line and a 4 external setting. Spool tension should always be set to just stop side play. If you're cranking spool tension down to the point that a bait can't fall at least a little ways freely it's way to tight and could be damaging the spool.

In this setting I would try a few easy casts and see what happens. If you're still easily getting backlashes, then it's time to exchange the reel. I wouldn't open the case to check anything, if it's brand new, you should get a new out of the box reel that works properly.

Sorry to hear you are having such trouble. But it's possible that the DC part of the reel is not working properly.

LgMouthGambler · January 24, 2018, 04:23:15 AM

Not all DC systems have that whine to it. Its a 17 so its got the iDC5 system. I believe they do have a whine to them. What you are explaining, to me, seems the DC system is defective. I honestly wouldnt be able to condemn it without having it in my hands myself. The other issue is, its a JDM reel and has no warranty through Shimano US. You are gonna have to send the reel back for a replacement. Be prepared to pay for return shipping of the reel. Personally, Im not surprised, they arent the best option to start getting into the DC reels. There are better options out there, but they are not going to be a new reel. Good luck.

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Sc Bassin · February 04, 2018, 12:29:35 PM

I have one & it does have the whine to it. Shimano USA use to repair the Japanese reels but there is a charge. I would check on the turn around time on getting a replacement to make sure it's not forever. There is several people on this site that repair reels that might be a better option.