Spinning reels are becoming common in bass fishing. They offer the angler an easy way to work finesse baits. These baits are light so baitcaster does not perform well. Using a Wacky-rig or Ned-rig needs accuracy and ease of casting. A spinning reel is the best at performing these tasks. If you are a baitcaster only fisherman. It is time to step up your game with a spinning reel.
Whether you are new to fishing or an old pro a spinning reel is needed for fishing. Spinning reels easily work the many finesse or soft plastics baits used. The reels allow further casting and accuracy. As a result, you do not need to get in close to pitch or flip a worm or creature bait. Spinning reels also extend the reach for shore fishing. Standing on the bank limits the areas that can be reached. A spinning reel outperforms a baitcaster in this situation.
Choosing a Spinning Reels for Bass
Choosing the best spinning reel for bass depends on the angler. Everyone has their favorites in reels. All the big names make high, middle, and low-quality reels. The price is based on quality. That said, a better reel is going to cost more. There is no need to spend over $200 on a spinning reel unless you are fishing a lot. The reels in the 70-200 dollar range will work for most anglers. Also, the quality is more important than the brand. Look at the quality over the name.
Choose the spinning reels for bass with the best features and quality. One manufacturer’s $100 reel may be better than your original choice. The amount of bearings is a sign of reel quality. The more bearings it has implies a better reel usually. Although, a reel with fewer bearings that are sealed is better than one with unsealed bearings. Look at what materials make up the parts of the reel. Graphite is lighter reducing fatigue. Magnesium is also light but will cost more. Aluminum is strong but weighs a little more.
Top Picks
- Abu Garcia Revo SX; Smooth and built to last
- Shimano Stradic CI4; Light with a lot of quality features
- Daiwa Fuego LT; Great price for the features
- Pflueger Supreme XT; Titanium roller reduces line twist
- Shimano Sedona FI; Best Budget reel
- Pflueger President XT; Budget reel
Table of Reel Manufacturers
The top reels on the list are not an endorsement of quality over other reels on the list. These makers of fishing reels are the best. The list is only a table of contents so you can click on your preferred brand. If you choose to skip the other reels on the list. Anglers sometimes have their mindset on a brand.
I own or have owned reels by all but Lews. I have used a few of the Lews reels. These reels are smooth and will last. Someone fishing over 500 hours is better off buying a higher-priced reel for durability. Also, every reel needs proper maintenance regardless of quality. A low-priced reel maintained will outlast the best reel if not maintained.
Abu Garcia Spinning Reels for Bass
Known best for its baitcast series of reels. Abu Garcia makes a few good spinning reels also. The reels range from 70 to 160 dollars. These 3 reels offer anglers choices in budget and quality. I do not recommend the black or silver max models. They are introductory models for beginners. The reels on the list were chosen for better performance and quality. A bass angler needs a reel that is smooth and durable.
Abu Garcia Revo SX – REVO2SX30
The Revo SX has a 6.2:1 gear ratio. Its line picks up is 35 inches per crank of the handle. A braid-ready aluminum spool that holds a lot of line with a graphite rotor. The IM-C6 carbon body reduces weight to 7.9 ounces. The 9 stainless steel bearing creates a smooth feel and is resistant to corrosion. This reel is a great choice for Abu fans and anyone else.
- 8 stainless steel HPCR™ bearings + 1 roller bearing
- Drag 11 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; Mono 8/175 Braid 10/180
- AMGearing™ system
- Computer-optimized gear design
- Carbon Matrix™ hybrid drag system
- IM-C6™ body design
- Lightweight graphite rotor
- Rocket line management™ system
- Rocket spool lip design™
- K- Clutch™ anti-reverse
- Flat EVA knob
- Machined aluminum braid ready spool
Abu Garcia Revo X Spinning Reel – REVO2X30
The reel is like the Sx with 2 fewer bearings and weighs .4 of an ounce more. This reel uses a stainless steel main shaft and components. This is why it weighs a little more. If you do not mind some extra weight it is a good reel. Plus it is lower-priced.
- Drag 11 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; Mono 8/175 Braid 10/180
- 6 stainless steel HPCR™ bearings + 1 roller bearing
- Carbon Matrix™ hybrid drag system
- IM-C6 body design
- Lightweight graphite rotor
- Rocket Line Management System™
- Rocket spool lip design™
- Large PVC knobs
- Machined aluminum braid ready spool
- Stainless steel main shaft and components
- Everlast™ bail system
- Slow Oscillation
Abu Garcia Elite Max – EMAXSP30
A budget-priced reel from Abu the Elite Max has many of the features of the Revo series. The drag is higher at 14 pounds. The line capacity is the same with a retrieve rate of 33 1/2 inches. The weight of the reel is 8 1/2 ounces and is expected on a lower-cost reel. At only a little more cost a much better reel than the silver or black max. A good reel for beginners or occasional anglers.
- Light, tough IM-C6 carbon body
- Drag 14 lbs. max.
- Line capacity Mono 8/175 Braid 10/180
- Lightweight rotor with Everlast bail system
- Braid-ready machined aluminum spool
- Rocket Spool Lip Design
- Rocket Line Management System
- Slow Oscillation for even line lay
- Stainless steel main shaft and internals
- 6 HPCR stainless steel ball bearings plus roller bearing
- Silky-strong Carbon Matrix drag
Daiwa Spinning Reels for Bass
Daiwa has been around for a long time. Companies that last make items worth buying. I have seen more than one reel maker go under in my life. Daiwa makes a full line of rods and reels for all levels of anglers. The Tatula series is popular as a baitcast reel. It is made in a spinning reel too. The cost is a bit high. They do offer other good spinning reels for bass fishing. You can spend more money if needed but the other reels below are reasonably priced.
Daiwa Tatula Spinning Reel – Model TALT2500D-XH
At 6.2 ounces the reel is light. The carbon frame and air rotor are both lighter and stronger than aluminum. The 22-pound drag is more than a bass angler needs in a spinning reel. The deep spool lets an angler spool up more line. The stainless steel bail wire is hollow, reducing weight. This is not a concern as it is strong. The 7 bearings are high quality designed for durability and smoothness. Although lightweight does cost more. The con to the reel is the price of about $200, a little high for the average angler.
- Engineered for the sophisticated bass angler
- Drag 22 lbs. Max
- Line Capacity 10/210
- Extremely lightweight, strong, and responsive
- Zaion “high density” carbon-strain body
- Hollow stainless steel Air Bail
- Air Rotor with 15% less weight but higher strength
- Digigear A7075 aircraft-grade aluminum gearing
- 7-bearing (6+1) system
- 1 CRBB, 5 stainless steel ball bearings, 1 roller bearing
- Instant anti-reverse
Daiwa Fuego LT – FGLT2500D-XH
This reel follows the trend of compact and lighter reels. The reel’s price is close to the budget-priced offerings. A reel weighing 7.2 ounces usually costs more. The drag and line capacity are higher than an angler needs. Plus the reel has many of the features of higher-priced reels. This reel is a top choice for quality at a lower price.
- Sleek design, yet strong and durable
- Drag 22 lbs. max
- Line capacity 10/210
- Lightweight, sturdy carbon-infused housing
- Air Rotor with Air Bail
- DigiGear computer-driven gear design
- Magsealed technology protects the main shaft
- Buttery smooth 7-bearing (6+1) system
- Ergonomic machined aluminum handle
Daiwa Regal LT – RGLT2500D-XHA
Daiwa’s budget model for bass fishing. It is considered a workhorse reel and has 10 bearings. The bearings are of lower quality but the amount makes the reel smooth. Although the bearings will not last as long. The general features are the same as the higher-cost reels. If you need a reel at a modest price it is worth considering. Be prepared to maintain the reel to make it last longer though due to the bearings.
- Redesigned workhorse reel
- Drag 22 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 8/240 20/170
- Part of Daiwa’s Light but Tough series
- Rigid, lightweight true carbon frame
- Balanced Air Rotor with Air Bail system
- Smooth 9+1 bearing system
- ATD drag for smooth power
- Machined aluminum handle
Shimano Spinning Reels for Bass
Shimano is the best known of the fishing rods and reel manufacturers. They build reels that last. They use fewer bearings of higher quality keeping the price and weight down on the reels. Some makers of reels use a lot of bearings that increase the weight. Also, bearings are a big cost of reels meaning a lot of bearing at a low price implies cheaper bearings.
Shimano Stradic FLSpinning Reel – Model STCI43000HGFB
Shimano always strives to be the best. They have achieved it with this reel. All the features of the reel are made to perform. Using lighter materials where needed the reel weighs 6.7 ounces. A cold-forged spool is stronger than a machined spool. The reel handles braided lines without a problem. The one-piece bail puts the line on the roller fast. There is no hanging up where parts meet. The line comes off the spool freely letting you cast effortlessly and accurately. The shielded bearings deliver smooth performance. Add in the balance, large handle knob, and lightweight fishing is a joy with the reel. This is a serious piece of equipment for a bass angler.
- Flex-free Hagane body
- X-Protect waterproofing system
- Long Stroke Spool
- SilentDrive noise and vibration reduction
- 100% stronger Hagane cold forged drive gear
- Advanced MicroModule Gear II
- X-Ship gear support system
- 6+1 bearing system
- S A-RB shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- Super Stopper Anti Reverse roller bearing
- Aluminum cold forged spool
- Propulsion Line Management System
- Dyna-Balance
- Power Roller II
- SR-Concept
- Aero Wrap II
- Cross Carbon drag (3000-5000 models)
- Power handle (5000 model)
Shimano Nasci – Model NASC3000HGFB
Anglers looking for a workhorse reel will like the Nasci. The high-quality gears take the pressure and are made to last. It has a power handle for extra power for ripping a fish out of dense cover. Coupled with a 20-pound drag, the fish are at a disadvantage. The reel comes with features found on the stradic such as a cold-forged spool and core-protect. The reel is easy to maintain and at a low cost. The one downside is the extra washers to adjust the line lay on the spool. It can be tricky to get it right.
- First reel under $100 with Hagane gears
- Drag 20 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 10/140 20/140
- X-Ship gear support system
- Coreprotect
- G Free Body
- Smooth, stable retrieves; strong and durable
- 4+1 A-RB bearing system
- Super Stopper II
- Cold-forged aluminum AR-C spool
- AR-C line management system
- Dyna Balanced rotor
- Varispeed Oscillation with Power Roller for perfect line lay
- Power Handle for extra leverage
- Easy to maintain
Shimano Sedona FI – Model SE3000HGFI
An angler needing to save money will like the Sedona model. It is one of the lowest-priced reels suitable for bass fishing with a spinning reel. The reel is not as smooth as the previous two Shimano reels. This is a trade-off with the price since it has fewer bearings. The bail does provide a clear path to the roller guide. It has a weight of 8.8 ounces making it a little heavy for steady all-day fishing. It is a good choice for an occasional angler or a backup reel for someone fishing a lot.
- Significantly upgraded performance, affordable price
- Drag 20 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 8/170 20/140
- Lighter, stronger, faster, and more durable than ever
- Lighter weight G-Free body construction
- Super-lightweight Magnumlite rotor
- Cold-forged Hagane gears for ultimate durability
- Higher gear ratios (except 1000 size)
- Increased drag power (except 1000 size)
- Smooth, trouble-free 3+1 ball bearing system
Lews Spinning Reels
Lew’s reels are a go-to option for some anglers. They have the highest drag on the better models. All Lew’s reels come with more bearings. This does add a little weight to the reels. Anglers fishing all day will notice more hand or wrist fatigue with only a few grams of added weight. These reels do have aluminum frames on most models. The material is tougher than carbon bodies. If you are hard on a reel Lew’s model is a good choice.
Team Lew’s Custom Pro Speed – TLC3000
Fishermen looking for a good reel made with a metal body will like the Lew’s TLC3000. The weight of 9 ounces is higher but not bad for an aluminum reel. The 12 bearings do create a smooth retrieve in the reel and likely account for most of the weight increase. A 22-pound drag is more than needed. Use caution with braid, so you do not damage the bail. The 40-pound braid is too much for a reel of this size. Otherwise, the reel is a solid performer for bass fishing.
- All-aluminum body and side-plate
- Drag 22 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 10/160 40/160
- Stainless steel exterior screws
- Flush-and-drain ports (except 1000 model)
- C60 carbon skeletal Speed Rotor
- Aluminum bail wire
- Double-anodized, braid-ready knurled aluminum spool
- High-strength Speed Gears with aluminum pinion
- Stainless steel main shaft
- Premium stainless steel 12-bearing system
- Zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing
- Smooth, sealed carbon-fiber drag
- Aluminum handle with Winn Dri-Tac knob
- Lew’s Speed Lube maintains fluidity in all weather
Lew’s Custom Speed Spin – CS300
The custom speed spin is the middle model of the series. It comes with 2 fewer bearings but all the other features of the pro model. This does not affect performance for most anglers. If it is going to be your primary reel you will need the extra bearings. The small price difference is worth paying for more bearings. It is a good reel but the previous model is better.
- All-aluminum body and side-plate
- Drag 22 lbs. max
- Line capacity; 8/180 40/160
- Flush-and-drain ports (except 100 model)
- C60 carbon skeletal Speed Rotor
- Aluminum bail wire
- Double-anodized, braid-ready knurled aluminum spool
- High-strength Speed Gears with aluminum pinion
- Stainless steel main-shaft
- Premium 10-bearing system
- Zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing
- Smooth, sealed carbon-fiber drag
- Aluminum handle with Winn Dri-Tac knob
- Pre-treated with Speed Lube
Lew’s Speed Spin – SS30HS
A low-cost base model reel for occasional fishing or a beginner unsure of what to buy. The ten bearings are a plus at the price. The 13-pound drag is enough for bass fishing. This model has a graphite body reducing the price versus aluminum. It is still a heavier spinning reel at over 9 ounces. Depending on how much you fish this may or may not be a good choice. The reel’s weight will create fatigue and the lower quality affects durability.
- Rugged, lightweight graphite body
- Drag 13 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 10/150
- Skeletal graphite rotor with aluminum bail
- Double-anodized aluminum spool
- Fold-down aluminum handle with Combat Grip
- Premium 10-bearing system
- 9 ball bearings plus 1 Zero Reverse roller bearing
- Smooth, reliable over-sized multi-disc drag
- Speed Lube all-weather treatment
Penn
People tend to think of Penn reels for trolling or saltwater use. Penn uses the same technology and quality in freshwater spinning reels. These reels are built for performance and dependability. Although some of the reels seem to have low drags. Do not be concerned with the drags of 10-pounds. A 10-pound drag is enough for a 30-pound line. In other words, it is more than most medium power rods can handle.
PENN Conflict II – CFTII3000
Penn makes what is called workhorse reels. They are built to be solid and last. This is one of their top models for bass. There is nothing fancy about the reel except performance. Penn reels do perform above average. A good line capacity, quality bearings, and smooth drag are the key features. A heavier bail stands up to pressure. Something to consider pulling fish out of cover.
- Rigid Resin RR30 body and rotor
- Drag 10 lbs. max
- Line capacity; 10/165 20/180
- HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers
- 7+1 stainless sealed bearing system
- Thick aluminum bail wire
- Line capacity rings
- Superline spool
PENN Battle II – BTLII-3000
The full metal body, heavy bail, and 15 pounds of drag make this a tough reel. The drag has a nice range of adjustments making it smooth. The sealed bearings keep dirt and water out making them last. The downside is the weight of 12 ounces. It is a heavy reel but rugged. You have to decide between durability and fatigue with a Penn reel when bass fishing.
- Full Metal Body, side plate, and rotor
- Drag 15 lbs. max
- Line capacity; 10/165 20/180
- HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers
- 5 Sealed stainless steel ball bearings
- Instant Anti-Reverse bearing
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
- Superline spool
- Line capacity rings
Penn Fierce II – FRCII3000
The lighter model of Penn reels at 11.7 ounces and a low price. It has an aluminum body and side-plates with a graphite rotor. The lighter rotor helps the reels feel smooth. The 5 bearings are expected for a 50-60 dollar reel. It is one of the better beginner reels for people to save money. Anglers planning to fish a lot should look at other reels. This reel is okay for backup but not full-time use.
- Full Metal Body and side plates
- Drag 10 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 10/165 20/180
- Techno-Balanced graphite rotor
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
- 4+1 bearing system with Instant Anti-Reverse
- Shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- Super-line spool with line capacity rings
- Ultra-reliable oiled felt drag system
Pflueger
Pflueger uses magnesium bodies on the higher quality reels. This offers sturdiness and lighter weights. A Pflueger reel is designed for all-day use. Lighter reels reduce hand and wrist fatigue. Besides the magnesium bodies, other lightweight materials are used. Carbon handles and ported aluminum spools help reduce weight. A titanium roller guide on the bail is durable and keeps the line twist to a minimum.
Pflueger Supreme XT – SUPXTSP35X
I feel the SP35X is better suited for bass angling. The SP30X is almost an ounce lighter at 7.1 ounces but lacks the drag and line capacity many anglers need. A twelve-pound drag with a good braid capacity set the reel out from some others. A magnesium body reduces weight without the need to use plastic or carbon materials. Helping reduce weight is the ported spool and carbon handle. The 9 bearing makes it smooth and durable for all-day use. Plus, the titanium roller reduces line twists.
- 9 stainless steel bearings
- Drag 12 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 8/185 10/220
- On/Off instant anti-reverse bearing
- Ultra-lightweight magnesium body, rotor, and side-plate
- Machined, ported, and double-anodized, braid-ready aluminum spool
- Carbon inlay drag design with a sealed carbon-fiber system
- Solid aluminum bail wire
- Lightweight carbon handle with EVA knobs
- Approved for use in saltwater
- Sure-click bail
- Anti-twist titanium line roller
Pflueger Supreme – SUPSP35X
The lower-priced version of the supreme models. It has 1 less bearing and a little more weight. The reel will work if not using all day since the extra weight will add to fatigue. The performance is on par with the XT model. It has the same line capacity and drag. It also has the titanium roller reducing line twist. The reel is great for a beginner or occasional fisherman. It performs with all types of baits so it can be used for jerk baits and crankbaits also.
- 8 stainless steel ball bearings
- Drag 12 lbs. max.
- Line capacity; 8/185 10/220
- On/Off instant anti-reverse bearing
- Ultra-lightweight magnesium body, rotor, and side plate
- Carbon-inlay drag design with multi-disc system
- Machined, ported, and double-anodized, braid-ready aluminum spool
- Solid aluminum bail wire
- Approved for use in saltwater
- Sure-click bail
- Anti-twist titanium line roller
Pflueger President XT – PRESXTSP35X9+1
One of the smoothest reels in the pow-price or budget category. The 10 stainless steel bearings make it a reel that will last the average angler. An aluminum main shaft and gears reduce weight without sacrificing power. The 12-pound drag is smooth and reliable for the price. A better drag will cost more. This reel is the best value on the market for the one-day-a-week angler.
- Drag 12 lbs. max
- Bearings; 9 BB + 1 RB Corrosion-resistant Stainless steel
- Line capacity; 8/185 10/220
- Extreme comfort and balance
- Aluminum main shaft is 30% lighter than stainless steel
- Aluminum pinion gear weighs 60% less than brass
- Strong carbon handle is 21% lighter than aluminum
- Instant anti-reverse
- Smooth, reliable sealed drag system
- Braid-ready spool
Summary
Spinning reels for bass fishing has many options. The reels on the list are affordable and reels that will last. Few anglers spend $200 or up for a reel so the list is capped at a lower price. There is a reel for everyone on the list. These are reels in the budget range and in the mid-price range. A pro fisherman will spend more. But the average angler will be well served by their choice of a reel on the list.