Before you buy the best spinning reels, read our buyers guide and reviews of the 7 best spinning reels so you can make an informed decision.
Have you ever tried fishing without a fishing reel? We get tired quickly is not it? Whether you are an experienced fisherman or a beginner you will always need a good reel to be able to fish effectively and comfortably at the river, the lake or the sea.
However, finding the best fishing reel for value is complicated. Manufacturers and buyers are turning their attention to baitcasting. But, thanks to their easy handling, spinning reels are still a popular choice for beginners. The most experts also appreciate its versatility and long range.
Regardless of the specific situation, the purchase involves choosing a suitable model based on the intended fishing environment and the target species. An excellent model must be smooth, quiet and easy to use. The best ones have a light body, made of aluminum or graphite. The weight must be low to prevent any fatigue. The gears worked with precision by stainless steel. With a waterproofing system if possible. And considerable resistance in the front area to better cope with large fish.
With all the variety of goods for fishing offered by the modern market, the choice of high-quality spinning reels can be difficult. Different in their types, functions, characteristics, sizes and prices of the spool require careful study and comparison. Therefore, in this tutorial, we have prepared for you the ranking of the best spinning reels, which rightfully deserved their place in the list of the recognized elite.
For more of our suggestions on choosing to buy fishing gear, take a look at the popular links: Baitcasting Reels, Spinning Rods, Spincast Reels, Fly Fishing Forceps.
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Spinning Reels For 2023
- Daiwa Ballistic LT Spinning Reel
- KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III Spinning Reel
- Shimano Saragosa SW Spinning Reel
- Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel
- Shimano Catana RC Spinning Reel
- Abu Garcia Revo Rocket Spinning Reel
- Shimano Nexave Spinning Reel
Here is an overview of the features of our top 3 choices. Our guide and comparison table of top spinning reels will help you find the best choice for yourself.
Best Spinning Reels
Spinning Reel Reviews
#1 Daiwa Ballistic LT Spinning Reel
Highlights of Daiwa Ballistic LT:
- Weight: 6,3 oz
- Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
- Bearings: 6+1 (1crbb, 5bb, 1rb) shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 8/220, 12/160, 16/110 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 11 – 26.4 lbs
It is simply impossible to explain the total underestimation of the mass of the structure otherwise – for all its coolness and abundance of residual life, the Ballistic LT 2500D XH weighs only 180 grams. Completing spinning spools with such a reel will be akin to the highest pleasure – guaranteed not to cause hand fatigue. Also the corrosion resistant 7-Bearing System (1-CRBB, 5-BB and 1BB) incorporates an effortless and ultra-smooth cast and retrieval and lasts up to 12 times longer than standard stainless steel.
A few of the features that make this reel ideal for both saltwater and freshwater fishing are the carbon fiber ‘Zaion’ reel, the MagSealed system that keeps corrosion at bay, and the machined alloy DigiGear that keeps the reel running smoothly no matter how big the fish is. From the point of view of users, the average attention of the Ballistic LT 2500D XH deserves the average capacity of the spool (150 meters of mono-rolls with a cross-section of 0.28 millimeters), as well as the presence of a backstop stopper.
The machined aluminum handle has a gentle sway to it that just feels right in your hands. The handle is designed to screw in for a solid feel with no slop and can easily be adapted for both right or left handed retrieving. Because Daiwa has made the handles on these models out of aluminum, you’re not going to experience any flex. Yes, its cost is very high, but the longevity, about which anglers have repeatedly spoken, fully pays for all costs.
#2 KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III Spinning Reel
Highlights of KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III:
- Weight: 14,3 oz
- Gear Ratio: 5.5:1
- Bearings: 10+1 shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 10/265, 12/225 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 17.6 – 26.5 lbs
Designed with the coastal fishermen in mind, the KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III spinning reel supports salt water corrosion, thanks to a stainless steel main shaft and 10 + 1 armored stainless steel ball bearings.
Some highlighted features of KastKingSharkyBaitfeeder III includes an aluminum spool, fiber strengthened frame, precision manganese brass alloy inner tools, equipped braid fishing line, triple disc carbon fiber drag. Also, massive critical shaft made of stainless steel ensure great spinning rod with reel collective in 2000 to 5000 sizes which provide a brute strain that prevents from the massive fish mission.
Another highlight of this reel is its system double drag. The carbon fiber front drag offers up to 26.5 pounds of drag power, while the rear drag system provides an ideal pen light setting for drifting bait cutting or live bait in deeper waters. This quality reel by KastKing comes with K.I.S.S protection. This is a unique protection system for the reel, keeping the spool, body, and rotor well protected and free from water damage and excess dirt, which is certain to enhance the longevity of the product.
Its versatility is not limited to adapting to the dominant type of hand, the Sharky Baitfeeder III reel is manufactured in such a way that it can be used safely for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. You’re sure to have full control of the reel even in the wettest conditions due to the grips. The high-density EVA grips are sure to give you a slip-free fishing experience. For an even easier fishing experience, KastKing has included an anti-twist line roller, to eliminate the chances of line tangles and snarls!
When predators waiting at the baseline take the hook, the baitfeeder drag changes to the strongest front drag as soon as it starts to boot. Other notable features include the reel ready for aluminum braids of the reel, its aluminum handle with T-handle and its striking red and black color scheme.
There are four models to choose from with two transmission ratios: 5.1: 1 and 5.5: 1.
#3 Shimano Saragosa SW Spinning Reel
Highlights of Shimano Saragosa SW:
- Weight: 33.3 oz
- Gear Ratio: 4.4:1
- Bearings: 6+1 (1crbb, 5bb, 1rb) shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 20/460, 25/380, 30/320 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 22 – 44 lbs
It is very complicated to find a quality reel at a reasonable price for sea fishing (tuna, exotic). Aficionados of these powerful anglers know how difficult it is to find a reel capable of fighting the biggest fish on the planet at a reasonable price. Not everyone can afford Stella or Saltiga! Few models offer refined power/resistance/latest technology/weight compromise, all at “average” prices. But if we had to recommend just one, it would be the extraordinary SARAGOSA SW!
The one-piece cold-forged aluminum HD Gears used for the Saragossa SW are particularly strong, which is essential when considering fishing such as fishing or tuna casting. The X Shield frame and brakes are waterproof, and the mechanics are effectively and long-lasting. Shimano’s legendary rotational fluidity is still found here thanks to 5 S A-RB protected ball bearings + 1 needle bearing.
For all heavy fishing, we really appreciate the very high “torque” of this reel, which allows you to recover considerable weight while minimizing fatigue (great at jig!) It should be noted that all gears are made of cold forged aluminum for extreme durability. The super heavy-duty handle is also machined aluminum and the large control knob allows you to apply more force without “twitching” your fingers (great for long hits with tuna!)
Other mid-range models also exist but for the most part, they are much heavier at the same size than the very popular Stellas or Saltigas. The difference can be as much as 100 to 200 gr for some models, which is significant when you’re dealing with this reel all day! Its weight is 688 grams for size 8000 as well as its very high technicality thus making it a rare product for its very affordable price.
#4 Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel
Highlights of Daiwa BG:
- Weight: 8,5 oz
- Gear Ratio: 6.0:1
- Bearings: 6+1 shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 4/155, 6/100, 8/80 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 4.4 – 33 lbs
The Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is not only made of the highest quality components but also boasts industry-leading design making it a superb fish fighting machine. This BG spinning reel is manufactured with a machined aluminum that provides robustness and stability to the internal structure. Daiwa has black anodized the body and cover of the reel that makes it more resistant to scratches and corrosion. The anodization process is more effective than paint/coating as it allows for better adhesion to the aluminum and will not peel enhancing the brilliant look of the BG spinning reels.
It shares many of the features of Daiwa’s more expensive spinning reels, such as tough threaded handle, Genuine stainless NMB bearings, Air Rotor (but in ‘Graphite’, not ‘Zaion’), rotor brakes (to stop the rotor turning when the bail is open), all-metal body & rotor, a braid-ready spool & roller and fantastically smooth carbon drag system. The weight of the Air Rotor is about 15% less when compared to ordinary rotor designs. No dead lines, less casting friction, and longer easier casting is what it promises. Plus it is also braid-ready. The screw-in-handle provides 0 movements between the handle arm and the main gear for better control. The unique shape eliminates unnecessary weight and disperses the pressure equally throughout the rotor for maximal strength.
Daiwa uses a screw-in handle as opposed to a through handle design. This design means that there is no play between the handle arm and the main gear which leads to a very solid feel when cranking the handle. The BG fishing reels come in 10 models and three gear ratios that range from a 1500 all the way through an 8000 which means that you can find the right size for almost all of your fishing needs from small spotted seatrout up to a hard fighting 60-70 lb shark. This is easily one of the best spinning reels you can get in this price bracket – high quality, long-lasting, and heavy-duty. It will get the job done, and make the toughest of tasks feel easy.
#5 Shimano Catana RC Spinning Reel
Highlights of Shimano Catana RC:
- Weight: 10.6 oz
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
- Bearings: 2BB + 1 shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 10/170, 15/145, 30/95 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 4 lbs
The Shimano Catana RC is one of the best reels used in both marine and freshwater pools based on the rate of recovery it offers you. You can rewind a large amount of lines in an instant, to draw your prey to you instantly!
This reel is one of the most versatile models on the market in 2019. As noted above, the first strong point is the significantly higher recovery rate than many other models on the market. Thanks to it, you can use it without difficulty in any situation and in any competition, the result is always guaranteed!
First of all, given its weight and handling, it is suitable for both professionals and amateurs. It requires no special precautions and so you won’t risk making a mess and letting your prey escape. You can use it both in upstream and at sea, in fact, fatigue will be minimized. On the other hand, nothing else could be expected from Shimano.
The rear traction of this reel gives you great flexibility but also perfect control during your fishing sessions. The latter can also be easily adjusted during the hunt to make it suitable for all circumstances and allow you to act on the fish’s manners.
To end with the flourish as well as the usual technologies offered by Shimano that further enhance and improve your sessions, for more fun the modern look is just for you. If you are interested in not only having a good fishing rod, but also looking good, then you have come to the right place.
#6 Abu Garcia Revo Rocket Spinning Reel
Highlights of Abu Garcia Revo Rocket:
- Weight: 7,7 oz
- Gear Ratio: 7.0:1
- Bearings: 9+1 shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 6/225, 8/175, 10/140 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 11 lbs
The Abu Garcia Revo Rocket is an exceptional reel in almost every aspect, but a great advantage over most of the other spinning reels in the current market is speed. They call it the “Rocket” for a reason, with every turn of the reel handle, the Revo Rocket takes up 41 inches of line which is unheard of. If you’re using any technique that requires bottom contact, you’ll certainly notice a difference in your efficiency and hookup ratio with this reel.
Its high 7.0: 1 transmission ratio allows you to cover more water faster: line collection is much faster than with other spinning reels with lower / normal ratios. This gear ratio also helped better control fish during fighting. It allows anglers to manipulate them out of cover and into open water quickly and efficiently.
The Revo Rocket spinning reel also uses the Rocket line management system, which means that no matter what type of line you use, be it braided, monofilament or one of the hybrids on the market, you will always have superior control over it. Some additional features anglers will appreciate include a flat, easy-to-grip EVA knob, a machined aluminum braid-ready spool, computer optimized gear design and an Everlast bail system. Abu Garcia’s Carbon Matrix drag system is legit, as well. At no time has this drag surged or failed to engage while fighting a bass. It dispenses very smooth drag and consistent pressure throughout its entire range.
The Rocket’s 10-ball bearing system incorporates 9 HPCR (high-performance corrosion-resistant stainless steel) bearings plus 1 bearing that is used for the clutch non-return mechanism. IM-C6 (Insert molded C6) body design combines an X-craftic gearbox design with a C6 carbon body, which gives a lightweight construction that houses gears in perfect alignment, compact bent carbon handle provides a more ergonomic design. Depending upon the size you prefer, the weight of the REVO Rocket Spinning Reel ranges from 6.9 ounces to 8.1 ounces.
In order to stop the fish, the Rocket is based on a front drag system that uses the hybrid Carbon Matrix system of Abu Garcia, which is incredibly powerful, soft and reliable, allowing you to easily tame even the toughest fish.
#7 Shimano Nexave Spinning Reel
Highlights of Shimano Nexave:
- Weight: 11,5 oz
- Gear Ratio: 5.8:1
- Bearings: 3+1 shielded stainless steel
- Line Capacity: mono 8/240, 10/200, 12/160 (several sizes available)
- Max Drag: 7 – 19 lbs
This spinning reel has earned recognition among anglers due to high quality and reliability. Despite the rather low price, it is included in the class of accessories for intermediate spinning. The XT-7 body allows the novice to get the feel of the top price super light weight models. The stainless bearings provide even the most careless angler a significant level of protection against water and dust ingress. The all new Nexave Spinning Reel offers a sleek new body design, improved cosmetics, higher max drag settings, and all of this at a reduced weight. The Nexave reels also feature Propulsion Line Management, allowing anglers increased casting distance with less line lay issues when using today’s latest braided Spectra lines.
Provides rear brake super stopper ii. It perfectly fulfills all the jerks of fish and finely tuned. Rotation of the handle is based on the presence of four radial bearings (one roller and three ball), which provide smoothness and ease of movement. With sizes ranging from the 1000 up to the 5000, the Nexave lineup of spinning reels offers versatility for most freshwater and even some lightweight inshore saltwater techniques and species at an extremely affordable price point. Due to the 3 stainless steel ball bearings, the reel runs smooth and as as expected from a reel Shimano reel, the drag is perfectly adjustable and will help you fight big fish without any problems.
The friction brake mechanism includes several discs that provide the coil with sufficient locking force when fishing from the reservoir. The most obvious component of the Propulsion Line Management System is the new Propulsion spool lip design. Through tens of thousands of casting tests and computer simulations it has been determined that this new spool lip design provides longer casting distances than a standard spool lip design while preventing backlashes and wind knots from forming.
Aluminum spool increases casting accuracy – this is especially acute on light baits and float fishing. But the reel dynamics received the greatest approval from anglers – the work proceeds smoothly, without extraneous vibrations, which is ensured through the use of Dyna-Balance technology.
Spinning Reel Comparison Table
SPINNING REEL | WEIGHT | GEAR RATIO | BEARINGS | RATING | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Daiwa Ballistic LT | 6.3 Ounces | 5.1:1 5.2:1 5.3:1 6.2:1 | 6+1 stainless steel bearings | 5.0 / 5.0 | |
KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III | 14.3 Ounces | 5.1:1 5.5:1 | 10+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.5 / 5.0 | |
Shimano Saragosa SW | 33.3 Ounces | 4.4:1 5.6:1 5.7:1 6.2:1 | 6+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.5 / 5.0 | |
Daiwa BG Saltwater | 8.5 Ounces | 5.3:1 5.6:1 5.7:1 | 6+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.7 / 5.0 | |
Shimano Catana RC | 10.6 Ounces | 5.1:1 5.2:1 | 2+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.5 / 5.0 | |
Abu Garcia Revo Rocket | 7.7 Ounces | 7.0:1 | 9+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.4 / 5.0 | |
Shimano Nexave | 11.5 Ounces | 5.8:1 6.2:1 | 3+1 stainless steel bearings | 4.6 / 5.0 |
How to Choose the Best Spinning Reel
Sport fishing has been for decades the recreational activity of millions of people around the world because of the excitement of catching one fish at a time using a rod.
The importance of fishing gear is essential to ensure the success of your activity and if it is still difficult for the most experienced to know how to choose the right instruments, not to mention beginners and amateurs.In the following guide to buy the best spinning reel we explain the main aspects that you should check to buy said reel before looking only at how much it costs. This information will serve as a basis for knowing what to look for in your reel according to the type of fishing you do. That way you will invest your money intelligently, guaranteeing a lot of entertainment time with your efficient fishing gear.
- Materials
- Bearings
- Reel Size
- Spool Capacity
- Total Weight
- Friction Brake
- Gear Ratios
- Fishing Line Laying Mechanism
- Price
- Best Spinning Reel Brands
Materials
It is important to look at the material of the reel, as this will ensure its useful life for our fishing sessions.
Traditionally, the spinning reels were made of aluminum or graphite, corrosion resistant materials and noted for their lightness. Nowadays reels made with carbon fiber frames can be found to provide greater hardness and less weight; also, alloys of different materials have been used to offer a much stronger shell.
It is also necessary to verify that the crank is of good quality, because it is of no use to break the first round. Usually, this mechanism includes a knob with some type of coating; It can be EVA rubber or a textile, to ensure a firm grip, while absorbing sweat from the hands and does not accumulate unpleasant odors.
Undoubtedly, the type of material of the reel will affect its price, but we recommend you to check the quality well before choosing the cheapest one.
Bearings
The bearings are the key component to ensure the efficient operation of the fishing reel. And although there are models that echo the amount of bearings that make up the reel, here the principle of quality is better than quantity, because it is useless to have a quantity of bearings that after a few uses are already spent .
That is why the quality of the bearings guarantees a longer life of the equipment. Many manufacturers have chosen to make them in stainless steel by adding a seal or shield to protect them against corrosion.
Due to the friction generated in the bearings, reel lubrication is important to extend its durability. Therefore, you must make sure that the chosen reel has easy access so that you can lubricate it without complications and in the simplest way.
Reel Size
How to find out what size reel to choose for spinning? It depends on the length and thickness of the fishing line used. The thicker the fishing line, the larger the reel should be, and vice versa. It makes no sense to take the overall model, if you will be laying a thin thread on the drum: it is in vain to weight the tackle to anything.
How to choose the right spinning reel, taking into account the size of the gear? For light fishing rods and smaller fish, choose models with a size in the range of 1000-2500.
When fishing for large fish, a drum capacity of 3,000 to 5,000 is required. But this is not the limit. However, sizes greater than 5000 are chosen only for fishing at sea or for hunting fish of record weight.
Spool Capacity
This characteristic shows how much fishing line and what diameter can fit on the spool. Spool capacity is closely related to the size of spool.
A spool of 1000 in size contains 100 m of fishing line with a thickness of 0.1 mm, and a spool of 2000 can be wound with 100 m of fishing line with 0.2 or 200 m of fishing line 0.1. For perch fishing, it is better to equip a spinning reel with 2000, and to hunt a toothed predator you will need a 3000 model.
Naturally, for the ultralight use thin cords, so the spools of high spool capacity are absolutely not needed here. Spool capacity is indicated in meters and is always indicated on the spool of the spinning reel.
Total Weight
Of course, a smaller reel will have less weight. But not only the size depends on this parameter. Also important is the material of which the reel is made.
Distinguished manufacturers of fishing products are trying to use high-quality durable materials, which at the same time have a minimum weight (titanium, aluminum alloys, polymers). Therefore, the best reel for spinning among their own kind usually has less weight.
Friction Brake
In modern spinning reels, the friction mechanism is designed to deflate the cord when hauling fish. The clutch allows you to successfully withdraw large fish, the weight of which sometimes significantly exceeds the breaking load of the fishing line. The friction brake can be of two types:
- Front – located in the spool, more compact and sensitive, but it is inconvenient to adjust it in the process of hauling.
- Rear – located in the rear of the reel, usually less sensitive, weights the tackle, but reduces the cost of the spare spool and facilitates its replacement in fishing.
Which spinning reel is better, with a rear or front friction, the question is ambiguous. A big role is played by the personal preferences of the angler. But most experienced spinningists still prefer the front friction mechanism and try to choose just such a reel.
Gear Ratios
This is a very important point in the question of how to choose a coil for spinning. This parameter indicates how many turns the lineer makes at one turn of the reel handle. For example, the record “1: 5” says that in 1 revolution of the handle, the line packer will make 5 turns.
According to this indicator, all zero-speed operations can be divided into:
- Power – gear ratio from 1: 4.0 to 1: 4.7.
- Universal – gear ratio from 1: 5.0 to 1: 5.5.
- Speed – gear ratio from 1: 6.0 to 1: 7.2.
Power reels are more in demand in catching a large predator, for example, in a heavy jig. High-speed is recommended to choose anyone who wants to do ultralight.
Fishing Line Laying Mechanism
In modern spinning reels used two types of mechanisms for laying fishing line:
- With an endless screw – a worm gear.
- With the scenes – crank gear.
With proper performance, both mechanisms allow you to get a good smooth laying of the fishing line, in which it lies on the spool without humps and dips.
Also important is how winding of the fishing line on the spool. Straight winding (coil to coil) allows you to put more cord on the spool. However, the upper turns can “fall through” to the lower ones, get stuck there, which will significantly reduce the casting distance, and can lead to the formation of beards and the discharge of loops. Cross winding allows you to avoid such troubles, but the forest capacity of the spool is reduced, which, in principle, is not critical.
Price
Once you know more about sport fishing, you will realize that a reel does not have to be the most expensive to be the best. Even when there are recognized brands in this area, if you are starting, it is convenient to choose one with an efficient quality-price ratio that allows you to develop your skills in this sport. However, it is recommended that you review the web portals on this subject so that you know the opinions of other fishermen and according to their experience you make a successful purchase that allows you to enjoy sport fishing. In any case, you are now better able to determine which is the best fishing reel in the market.
Best Spinning Reel Brands
In the fishing world, it is considered that the two best manufacturers of spinning reels in the world are two Japanese world-famous companies Daiwa and Shimano. These two manufacturers, real standards of high quality and reliability. As a rule, it is the reels produced by these two companies that are chosen by experienced, professional spinningists. In the assortment of both companies, there are reels of budget level, average price level and premium class reels. Every fisherman, with what financial capabilities he would not have, will be able to pick up a reel, according to his abilities, corresponding to his fishing conditions.
In addition to the two aforementioned leading companies in the production of coils, there are coils and other manufacturers in the market, some of these manufacturers have achieved popularity among anglers and of course They are also represented on this list. Among these manufacturers of spinning reels are the following: Abu Garcia, KastKing, Okuma, Penn, Pflueger, Sougayilang and some others. In the process of selecting a spinning reel, first of all you need to pay attention to the quality of the reel manufacturing. Attention should be paid to anglers’ feedbacks regarding a specific reel model, which can be viewed on the Internet.
FAQs About Spinning Reels
How do I choose my fishing reel size?
Choosing the right size for your reel is easy, as you simply choose the length of the line you want to use and thus adjust your reel size to this parameter. The smaller the rod you use, the smaller the spindle you intend to buy.
How big must my reel be?
If your intention is to go small fishing, a size 500 to 1000 reel will perfectly fit. If the scroll is too large for your line size, you will have more lines than you need and therefore your transmission distance will be reduced.
What are the 4 types of fishing reels?
Equipping your fishing rod with the right reel is fundamental as each type of fishing reel requires its own level of skill and proficiency. In total, there are 4 types of reels: spincast, baitcasters, spinning and fly reel. If you would like more information on the different types of reels, we recommend visiting online forums to get closer to your fellow anglers and fishing enthusiasts; or if you prefer, you can always go to a specialty store and ask the salesperson for advice on the different characteristics of these reels, to find the one that perfectly suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
This is a comprehensive information on how to choose a spinning reel. Now you can accurately determine what parameters your gear should have. During the selection of the reel it is necessary to focus on the ratio of the quality and ease of the model. Of course, the best reels are metal structures.
I hope you have found the best spinning reel for yourself after this tutorial. If you would like to comment, notice that the article content has not been updated in time, or suggest a spinning reel I have not included, please use our contact form to stay in touch.
Good luck on your next fishing trip!
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