When I was a kid, my dad used to take me fishing down the river. I must say that this was one of the best experiences of my childhood. If you are enthusiastic about fishing as well, you need to get yourself the best spinning reel. It is what I always used and still use whenever I go fishing.
The Best Spinning Reels
The Benefits of a Spinning Reel
Spinning reels are some of the most common fishing reels that you can find in the market. The reason behind them being preferred by fishermen is the fact that they have a number of advantages. Some of these include:
Ideal for all experience levels
One of the major advantages of a spinning reel is that it is an excellent fishing equipment for fishermen of all experience levels. A novice will find a spinning reel easy to use, and may experienced fishermen still refer to spinning reels as the best fishing reels.
Easy to use
The fact that spinning reels are easy to use makes them the best for beginners in comparison to baitcasting reels that might take some more time to master. All that you have to do is open the bail, place the finger on the line, then let the lure sail.
Versatility
The versatility of spinning reels tops the list of their advantages. Spinning reels are often used in finesse presentations and live bait. This means that you can use yours to reel in walleye anglers, bass, or pin-fish. You can use a 6-10 pound test line or spinners and small jigs on spinning reels.
Do well with light lines and light lures
An added advantage of spinning reels is that they can easily cast lightweight lures and handle a light line. They are made with an open spool – a feature that allows the line to move steadily in coils from the cast, then smoothly through the rod.
Your ultimate guide to picking the best spinning reel
When you want the best spinning reel, you need to choose a reel that has all the desirable features that will help you fish easily.
It would be disappointing if your chosen equipment failed to work in the midst of your fishing expedition. In order to fish successfully, there are considerations you have to make regarding spinning reels. These include:
Drag Systems
One of the most important factors to consider is the drag systems. Drag is the amount of resistance given to the line the moment a fish tries to swim away with the bait.
Spinning reels have either rear drag systems or front drag systems. The former is effectively used by most anglers because they are easier to operate and access, while the latter is considered more sturdy and durable. I would recommend the rear drag system, especially for beginner anglers.
Gear Ratios
Another vital consideration to make is the gear ratio of your spinning reel. The gear ratio is crucial because it determines how easy it will be to haul in heavy catches, and how fast you will be able to retrieve the line.
The gear ratio is usually expressed in a numerical manner such as 6:1 or 4:1. The first number in the ratio is the revolutions of the spool, while the second is the number of turns of the reel’s handle.
A spinning reel with a higher gear ratio will enable you to retrieve the line more quickly. On the other hand, a lower ratio will move slower, but will make it easier to haul in a heavy catch. Be sure to get a spinning reel with a gear ratio that is suited to the type of fish you would like to catch.
Reel housing and body type
Spinning reels mainly feature aluminum or graphite bodies. Aluminum is ideal for freshwater fishermen and for anglers that don’t mind the extra weight. It is also more rigid.
On the other hand, spinning reels with graphite bodies tend to flex and are light, making them ideal for casual fishermen.
Keep in mind that aluminum bodies can get oxidized and corroded, something that would not happen to graphite bodies.
Reel capacity and size
Every angler has a unique fishing style, bait, and fish. As a result, it is imperative to consider the capacity and size of your spinning reel.
The weight of the line is also a factor that determines the size of the spinning reel. You can know the size and capacity of a reel from the specifications. You would not want to get a reel that will not handle your type of fish.
For example, you will need a bigger reel when you plan to surf fish in an ocean then when fishing in a local pond or small river. We have prepared a special article describing and reviewing the best surf fishing reels here.
Knowing where you will fish
Fish can be found in different water bodies, and you should select your spinning reel in accordance with your fishing grounds. It is important to note that fishing grounds such as great lakes have bigger fish compared to rivers.
Additionally, you can fish in either saltwater or freshwater. You wouldn’t need to get yourself a saltwater resistant reel if you’ll be fishing in freshwater lakes. You also don’t need to spend too much on a reel that doesn’t fit your grounds.
Spinning Reel Reviews
Shimano Stradic Front Spin Reel Review
If you are looking to get yourself a spinning reel, you might consider getting yourself the Shimano Stradic Front Spin Reel. This is an ideal reel because of its versatility.
It comes in five models, which makes it ideal for use by any angler. The Stradic features a drag range of 7-24 pounds, which is excellent because it provides you with the desirable resistance to handle fish of different weights. Moreover, this drag range enhances this reel’s durability and power alike.
Moreover, it has an ergonomic design. This design ensures the reel has excellent weight balance to minimize fatigue. The Stradic is made of a sturdy material – a metal body, which greatly contributes to its durability.
With 6 ball bearings, the Shimano Stradic Front Spin Reel includes a Hagane gear together with X-ship technology, a feature that presents you with a smooth, powerful, and durable equipment. This spinning reel is built to provide you with an outstanding experience in the water.
That is not all, this reel has a gear ratio of 6.2:1, and its retrieve is reversible, giving you a better fishing experience. At only 11.30 ounces, it has a mono line capacity of 10/240, 12/195, and 14/165 and a PowerPro line capacity of 20/220, 30/200, and 40/160 (lbs. /yds.).
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Pflueger President Spinning Reel Review
The next spinning reel that I will recommend for your fishing needs is the Pflueger President Spinning Reel. This reel not only features an ergonomic design but also is affordable.
This reel is ideal for an angler looking for a lightweight equipment as well as those whose fishing escapades are in saltwater environments. This is because its body and rotor are made of graphite. Additionally, a protective coating of silver, gold, and blue adds to its stylish design.
Moreover, the Pflueger President Spinning Reel includes nine stainless steel ball bearings. The 6920 comes with 6 ball bearings. These bearings provide you with a smooth operation in the fishing grounds. The spinning reel also has an instant anti-reverse bearing, which is beneficial when it comes to crank control because it enhances control.
The aluminum handle is also another feature that contributes to the longevity of this reel. As such, you can rest assured that you will use it for years to come. Despite having a granite body, the Pflueger President Spinning Reel does not flex, allowing you to use it without having to worry about it giving out.
This reel also includes a multi-disc drag system to provide you with excellent pulling power. What’s more, it has a large handle with a textured grip on top of a 10–bearing system to provide a more precise operation.
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Daiwa Revros Spinning Reel Review
If you are an enthusiastic angler, you need the best fishing equipment, and a spinning reel will enhance your fishing experience. In this case, you might consider getting yourself the Daiwa Revros Spinning Reel, an affordable item that will provide you with the ultimate fishing experience.
This reel presents you with excellent quality as it comes with a composite body, body cover, and rotor. This construction provides a lightweight design, which makes handling the reel easy.
Not only is this spinning reel light but also durable. You can easily rely on it to fish for a couple of years. An added feature on this reel is the air rotor, which enhances its sensitivity and lightness.
Moreover, it is designed with an ABS aluminum spool, an effective feature that contributes to this reel’s durability. Moreover, it has an 8 bearing system – 7 BB plus a 1 RB. The reel also comes with a Digigear digital gear design that ensures you achieve the best outcomes in the fishing grounds.
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Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel Review
I simply couldn’t talk about spinning reels and fail to include the Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel in the list. This reel is one of the most versatile in the market as it provides you with the ultimate fishing experience. For its price, the Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel has a distinguished value.
It also has a sturdy and ergonomic construction. It is designed with a C6 carbon body together with an X-Craftic gearbox. Moreover, the IM-C6 design maintains the reel’s gear alignment at all times. This feature allows you to reel in even big fish.
Moreover, the reel rotates slowly to provide you with an even line lay. Combined with the rocket spool lip design of this reel, your line is able to flow off at a desirable rate to allow you to cast more accurately. Regardless of the fishing line you are using, this reel will pair well thanks to its rocket line management system.
Another cool feature on this reel is its computer-optimized gear design and the durable AM Gearing system that delivers a seamless performance and durability. Furthermore, it includes a carbon matrix drag system that provides a strong drag, and a K-Clutch anti-reverse bearing that is ideal for interruption-free cranking.
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Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB Spinning Reel Review
This spinning reel is undoubtedly one of the best that you could consider getting yourself. It is imperative to note, however, that Shimano Stradic CI4 is in the higher price range. That notwithstanding, it features a sturdy construction that is guaranteed to leave you enjoying your time in the waters for quite a long time. Did I also mention that it has the ultimate lightweight design? Well, it does.
The stylish design is not the only thing that is attractive about this reel. The Stradic CI4+ includes a Hagane gear for a seamless and powerful performance and a G free body for enhanced durability. This reel has a front drag system with a power range of between 7 and 24 pounds.
Its weight range is 5.6 – 8.1 ounces, and it has a great retrieve range of 31-39 inches. This reel is also designed with 6+1 bearings. Other features that make this reel outstanding are the coreprotect technology that enhances its water resistance qualities and the magnum light rotter that needs less inertia.
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Best Spinning Reel Buying Guide Conclusion
Fishing is one of the most interesting activities that you can enjoy while exploring different water bodies. From personal experience, I must say that successful fishing requires the right equipment. As such, be sure to get yourself the best spinning reel in the market next time you go camping near a lake.
As for this review, I pick the overall winner to be the Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Fishing Reel. This is because it utilizes the coreprotect technology, which makes it water resistant, and it has a Hagane gear for improved power and durability (6.0:1 gear ratio). What’s more, it comes in a sturdy and ergonomic construction. It also has a lightweight design and an excellent drag system.
P.S. don't forget to check out our spincasting reels, ice fishing reels and fly fishing reels reviews & guides for a deeper dive into those topics.