The best spinning reels will be at a price you can afford. Everyone has a different budget when it comes to fishing. That said, there are reels in every price range worth buying and some are a waste of your money. An angler needs to choose wisely before making a purchase. You cannot avoid the fact the majority of fishing equipment is made in China. There are a few exceptions although.
The reels made in other countries will cost more but offer better quality usually. Buying somewhere other than China is no guarantee of quality. Researching the reels before buying will save anglers’ grief and frustration later on. Choose the price you are comfortable with and look at the reels in that range. Understanding anything under fifty dollars will not be a quality reel.
A word about carbon technology used in many spinning reels today. This is not plastic although some people believe this misinformation. The carbon technology used is the same as in the aerospace industry. The material is very strong for its weight and will withstand intended use.
A reel abused by a careless angler whether carbon or aluminum will get broken. Taking care of equipment is a priority if you want it to last. Fishing reels are not designed to throw in the back of a truck, crammed into a closet, or put anywhere they can be broken. If you are careless, the chances are the rod or reel will get broken.
Best Spinning Reels Over $100
Spending over 100 dollars will get you a very good or maybe an excellent reel if you spend over 200 dollars on the reel. These prices are not really considered high when it comes to the best reels. There are reels exceeding $400 on the market so a reel in the 100-250 range is a fair price for a good piece of equipment. The more spent on a reel with a pay off in longevity and other factors with the use.
Best Spinning Reels; Shimano Stradic
An exceptional reel made by Shimano. The reel is valued by anglers who have purchased this model. A well-designed reel with quality parts and materials. The reel is enjoyable to use. The statistics are in the table below for the reel.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Weight | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1000HGFB | 7 | 6BB+1RB | 6.0:1 | 6.7 | 10/95 15/85 20/65 | 2/270 4/140 6/100 |
| 2500HGFB | 20 | 6BB+1RB | 6.0:1 | 6.7 | 10/150 15/145 30/100 | 6/200 8/140 10/120 |
| 3000HGFB | 20 | 6BB+1RB | 6.0:1 | 6.7 | 10/200 20/140 40/105 | 6/230 8/170 10/140 |
| 4000XGFB | 24 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 8.1 | 15/280 30/170 50/150 | 8/240 10/200 12/160 |
The best spinning reel on the list. It is a lightweight reel with a strong drag and large line capacity. A total of 7 bearings will make the reel last and be smooth working lures or reeling in the big one. All the stress points on the reel are of strong materials. You will not have to worry about failure with the Stradic Ci4+ reel. This reel will last for years with proper maintenance. If something would need replaced parts are not an issue.
Amazon Price STRADIC CI4+ FB
Amazon Price Stratic FL
Best Spinning Reels; Daiwa Tatula LT
The Daiwa Tatula LT is another fine spinning reel for anglers seeking a higher quality. The reel has a small lightweight body and an air rotor. In other words, the rotor has openings in it to reduce weight. A lighter reel is a plus if used for jigging or other finesse style baits for hours.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Weight | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TALT1000D-XH | 11 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 5.8 | 6/320 8/200 | 4/250 6/160 |
| TALT2000D-XH | 11 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 5.8 | 8/280 10/215 | 4/340 6/220 |
| TALT25000D-XH | 22 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 6.2 | 10/250 15/185 | 8/240 10/210 |
| TALT3000-CXH | 22 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 6.2 | 8/220 10/185 | 8/160 10/130 |
| TALT3000D-CXH | 22 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 6.2 | 15/250 20/220 | 10/280 12/220 |
| TALT4000-CXH | 24 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 7.4 | 10/220 15/185 | 10/210 12/160 |
The Digigear (drive gear) is larger and polished making it smoother. Using 7 bearings the reel has plenty of stable support for the moving parts. A compact frame helps to reduce weight. The drag and line capacity exceed what is needed in each size of the reels. This reel is also a top choice for any angler.
Best Spinning Reels; Penn Conflict II
Penn has been around a long time and knows how to make reels. Conflict models are super-line ready. So there is no need for backing before spooling the braid. This reel falls into the lightweight reel class but is not as light as the previous two reels.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Line Retrieve | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFT-1000 | 9 | 7BB+1RB | 5.2:1 | 22″ | 160/6 130/8 110/10 | 275/2 135/4 105/6 |
| CFT-2000 | 10 | 7BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 31″ | 210/8 180/10 165/15 | 240/4 180/6 125/8 |
| CFT-2500 | 12 | 7BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 33″ | 240/10 220/15 160/20 | 255/6 175/8 140/10 |
| CFT-3000 | 15 | 7BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 35″ | 250/15 180/20 130/30 | 200/8 165/10 120/12 |
| CFT-4000 | 15 | 7BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 37″ | 360/15 260/20 185/30 | 270/8 220/10 165/12 |
| CFT-5000 | 20 | 7BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 38″ | 420/20 300/30 240/40 | 225/12 200/15 135/20 |
The reel is designed to be a tool for fishermen. It can handle any fish with the correct line and rod. The bearings, drag, and line capacity are all very good in the reel. The performance will be there when needed. There are reels that are glitz and glamour and lack performance. This is a very plain-looking reel that excels at performance and being sturdy. The reel will last and is another top choice in spinning reels.
Best Spinning Reels $50-$100
The reels in this price range are the affordable class of reels for the occasional angler. Reels of this value may last 5 or more years if properly maintained and not abused. They will be lacking in some features and have fewer and/or lower quality bearings. The reels in this category are also recommended for beginners to the sport of fishing. These spinning reels will last and the beginner can get a better idea of what they need or want in a future purchase.
REVO® X
The reel is built with the same craftsmanship as the baitcaster. Abu Garcia builds its better reels to last. The reel is plain-looking although performance is what matters. This reel does perform. As a result, a Revo will work for any level of angling needs from a beginner to an experienced sportsman.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Line Retrieve | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REVO2X10 | 10 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 30″ | 150/6 | 140/4 110/6 80/8 |
| REVO2X20 | 11 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 33″ | 190/8 | 185/6 130/8 110/10 |
| REVO2X30 | 11 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 35″ | 180/10 | 225/6 175/8 140/10 |
| REVO2X40 | 13 | 6BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 40″ | 210/14 | 210/10 180/12 150/14 |
The majority of Abu Garcia products have little in common with the silver or black max line. Since the maxes are low-budget models. The Revo models of reels can compete with any other reel on the market. Stainless steel shafts and internal components will prevent rust and deterioration. Add in 7 bearings, a good gear ratio, and good line capacity. The Revo is the top at the top of a hundred dollar reels.
Pflueger President XT
President XT comes in 5 models from light to medium-heavy applications. Bearings range from 7 to 10 with the larger models. It is a sign of quality to have the seven to ten bearings to support the shafts and gears. The smallest model only has 7 bearings which is more than enough.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Line Retrieve | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRESXTSP20X | 6 | 9BB+1RB | 5.2:1 | 21″ | 180/4 125/6 100/8 | 200/2 100/4 80/6 |
| PRESXTSP25X | 10 | 9BB+1RB | 5.2:1 | 22″ | 200/4 140/6 110/8 | 220/2 110/4 90/6 |
| PRESXTSP30X | 10 | 9BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 31″ | 250/8 220/10 160/14 | 230/6 185/8 155/10 |
| PRESXTSP35X | 12 | 9BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 35″ | 250/8 220/10 160/14 | 230/6 185/8 155/10 |
| PRESXTSP40X | 14 | 9BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 38″ | 320/10 280/14 200/20 | 285/8 230/10 195/12 |
The reels come in above average in weight. At the price an expected trade-off to have since it has more bearings than cheaper reels. The gear ratio of 6.2:1 is a nice feature allowing quick line retrieval rates. Coupled with a well-balanced drag the reel is a great beginner reel. This is also a great choice for a second reel if you have one.
SHIMANO Sahara FI
At the price, the Sahara has everything in performance and good value. A good reel for novice and experienced anglers alike. Shimano has stayed with the proven fewer quality bearings. Instead of jazzing up the reel with more low-quality bearings. This reel is a low-price winner.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Line Retrieve | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE500FI | 7 | 3BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 27″ | 6/135 8/105 10/65 | 2/190 4/100 6/60 |
| SE1000FI | 7 | 3BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 36″ | 15/85 20/65 | 2/270 4/140 6/110 |
| SE2500HGFI | 9 | 3BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 36″ | 15/145 30/100 | 6/200 8/140 10/120 |
| SEC3000HGFI | 20 | 3BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 36″ | 20/140 40/105 | 6/230 8/170 10/140 |
| SE4000XGFI | 24 | 3BB+1RB | 6.2:1 | 39″ | 30/170 50/150 | 8/240 10/200 12/160 |
| SE6000FI | 22 | 3BB+1RB | 4.6:1 | 33″ | 30/290 50/195 65/140 | 12/265 16/170 20/120 |
| SE8000FI | 24 | 3BB+1RB | 4.9:1 | 37″ | 40/340 50/265 65/215 | 12/345 16/250 20/185 |
Metal gearing and line capacities are a plus with the reel. The reel would be high on the list if it was a little lighter. The drags exceed what is needed for each size. Line retrieval ranks well compared with the higher-priced reels. The spool design lets the line flow freely for nice casting. A reel worth buying at a lower price for all levels of anglers.
Daiwa Bg
A nice reel at an affordable price. The BG has plenty of bearings, drag, and line capacity for bass, walleye, and larger fish. It depends on the model chosen. The only downside to the reel is they are a bit heavier than others of the same size.
| Model or Size | Max Drag | Bearings | Gear Ratio | Line Retrieve | Braid Cap. | Mono Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BG1500 | 4.5 | 6BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 27″ | 8/220 10/130 | 4/155 6/100 |
| BG2000 | 5 | 6BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 36″ | 10/160 15/130 | 6/135 8/110 |
| BG2500 | 13 | 6BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 36″ | 15/190, 20/170 | 6/210 8/170 |
| BG3000 | 15 | 6BB+1RB | 5.6:1 | 36″ | 15/280 20/240 | 8/240 10/200 |
| BG3500 | 17 | 6BB+1RB | 5.7:1 | 39″ | 20/310 30/230 | 10/240 12/210 |
| BG4000 | 17 | 6BB+1RB | 5.7:1 | 33″ | 20/370, 30/280 | 10/300 12/260 |
| BG4500 | 22 | 6BB+1RB | 5.7:1 | 37″ | 40/340 50/270 | 14/350 17/280 |
| BG5000 | 22 | 6BB+1RB | 5.7:1 | 39″ | 40/480 50/360 | 14/470 17/380 |
| BG6500 | 33 | 6BB+1RB | 5.3:1 | 33″ | 50/550, 65/440 | 20/370 25/310 |
| BG8000 | 33 | 6BB+1RB | 5.3:1 | 37″ | 50/730, 65/590 | 20/550, 25/440 |
The table above lists all the options available with the Daiwa BG spinning reel. If you are looking for a bigger reel this model will fit the need. The 4000 up to the 8000 are large line capacity reels. That can handle large catfish or pike for those wary of baitcasting reels. The smaller reels are good choices for general fishing by occasional or new anglers.
Best Spinning Reels Around $50
A reel under fifty dollars will only last a year or two, maybe three at most. The reels in this price range are going to have weaker bails, cheaper springs, and low-quality bearings. When something goes wrong the chances of obtaining parts or repairs are slim. Additionally, the repair cost will exceed the cost of the reel if the warranty has expired. You may not like this but it is the truth. I strongly recommended paying 20-30 dollars more for a decent reel.
Pflueger President
The standard model is a little less expensive than the XT model. The basic features are the same but it has a handle knob that does not feel as good. In other words, the handle seems a little uncomfortable compared to the better model. If it is a twenty-dollar difference, you have to decide. The Pflueger President is the best low-price reel. The occasional or beginning angler will enjoy this reel.
Daiwa Revros LT
The 4 + 1 bearing count is normal in a fifty-dollar reel. The reel also has a lower gear ratio and line capacity compared to similarly-sized models. A beginner will do well with the reel until they learn and need to upgrade. The reel shows the downside of trying to save money over features in a reel. Serious anglers should buy a higher-quality reel.
Shimano Nexave
The low price offering from Shimano. The bail system is suspect on the reel but otherwise, it seems well built, except for the plastic handle knob. It does have good line capacity, retrieve rate, and a good gear ratio. The drag is 18-19 lbs on all but the 2 smallest models. They have 7 to 9 pounds of drag. The reel will do the job but be careful of the bail it has taken a beating in other reviews.
Best Spinning Reels Conclusion.
Spinning reels come in all levels of quality and performance. The reel you choose needs to fit the needs of your fishing level. The more you fish requires buying higher quality. The middle of the road so to speak of requires a one hundred to one hundred fifty dollar reel, which is good for anyone. The higher-priced reels are for serious anglers and lower-cost reels are for someone fishing a few times a year.
You have to judge how much you will be using the reel. Look at models that fall into the quality range for the amount of use. If you fish a lot. Do not expect a reel under one hundred dollars to give you long service. You get what you pay for with fishing equipment.
Keeping fishing simple for tight lines and bragging rights
John McIntyre