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Spinning reels, as opposed to fixed-spool reels, are great for catching bass. However, there are thousands of spinning reels on the market. It took me a lot of time to find the best spinning reel for bass, so I understand if you are going through the same struggle.
If you are looking for a good fight when you go fishing, go for bass. Bass will put up a good fight before you have them on your hands. The fight is what brings the excitement of fishing them. However, when a fish decides to fight, you need special skills, a strong quality fishing line, and a good quality angling reel. A reel that cannot handle the weight of the bass, or one that corrodes after a few trips in open waters will make your fishing expeditions frustrating.
To pick the best product, I considered:
You do not have to go through all the fishing reels the way I did to find the right one. Pick one that fits your budget and matches your bass fishing needs from the list below and run away with it.
Below, I have outlined the best reels for bass on the market.
KastKing Royale Legend/Whitemax Low Profile Fishing Reel
Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000 XG FB Spinning Fishing Reel With Front Drag
Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel
Cadence CS10 Ultralight Fast Speed Premium Magnesium Frame Fishing Reel
Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel
One Bass Fishing reels Light Weight Saltwater Spinning Reel
Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Fishing Reel
Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
RUNCL Spinning Reel TITAN I
If you are looking for a budget spinning reel that still performs excellently, this might be a great choice for you. The unit is thin and light, but strong and durable to give you so many years of fishing.
It is a high-speed reel that retrieves the line at a ratio of 7.0:1 and can retrieve up to 31.5 inches of fishing line per crank in a swift manner. This way, when the Bass puts up a fight, you are able to put up a fight too. The ball bearings are corrosion resistant and anti-reverse, letting the reel operate smoothly and in silence.
The computerized numerical control precision gears sport a design that increases the strength of the retrieve. Its dual-braking functionality is really innovative as you have more control over the reels. This feature lets you precisely control the deceleration of the spool and to eliminate backlash.
I found the drag system quite impressive. It works with carbon fiber discs. Whether you are right or left handed, you can switch the retrieve to suit your needs. The reels feel pretty comfortable with dual grips that repel water and have foam padding to add comfort.
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Cons
The Shimano Stradic Ci4 sports an innovative design. For starters, the unit features a Magnumlite rotor that makes it 25 percent less heavy compared to conventional spinning reels. Although it is not the lightest reel I tested, it still feels light and easy to use. Its design brings the center of gravity closer to your hands position to provide great comfort and reduce hand fatigue when you spend hours fishing.
Each reel is water-resistant, thanks to the CoreProtect 360-degree coating. This makes it relatively more durable and makes it comfortable to use.
The unit packs a cold forged aluminum spool with a tough Hagane drive that enhances the power of the reel. Forged aluminum is more powerful than die-cast aluminum. Its X-ship components make it precise and smooth, especially when you fight with a Bass. The smoothness and stability of the Shimano Ci4+ further increases with the A-RB roller bearings. The shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensure that no water, salt, or dirt finds its way into the bearings.
This 8.6-ounce spinning reel can drag a Bass weighing up to 24 pounds. Its power comes from its 6.2:1 gear ratio that retrieves 39 inches per crank. You can use it to hold a monoline of about 200 yards. The solid hooksets on the reel deliver great functionality with the Super Stopper II anti-reverse switch.
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The Abu Garcia Revo SX sports a solid body with a graphite rotor that makes its operation very smooth. The unit is light for portability and ease of use. The frame is alloy–made to keep the whole unit corrosion-free while the carbon side plates, housing, and body enhance the durability of the unit while reducing its weight.
The Revo SX uses Carbon-Matrix technology for its drag system. This system applies carbon washers that facilitate the consistency of the drag system. Although the reel weighs only 7.9 ounces, it can reel in an 11-pound bass. Its gear ratio of 6.2:1 lets it retrieve 35 inches of line per crank. This way, you are able to fight faster than the bass.
Each unit features eight steel ball bearings that coordinate to deliver a smooth and quiet operation. To further enhance the smooth operation, Abu Garcia gives you Rocket system of line management together with the Rocket spool lip design.
Furthermore, if you fish for long hours, the padded knob feels pretty solid and very comfortable. Its hooks are highly comfortable, thanks to its K-Clutch anti-reverse system. I loved the control that the magnetic brake system gives me when fishing. The braking system reduces backlash to deliver smooth and quiet operation. This comes as a great feature, seeing that the bass can detect small disturbances.
If you plan to fish for bass in freshwater, this line might be a great option for you. It delivers great performance, is strong and durable, and still maintains a light weight.
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If you are looking for a reel that gives you value for money, I suggest you try out the Daiwa BG 3000. The unit features an anodized aluminum body that offers superior performance compared to a painted aluminum. Granted, it is highly durable.
Each unit comes with an innovative spool, a carbon drag system, and cross-cut carbon fiber washers that deliver a smooth and reliable operation. It has a gear ratio of 5.6:1 and can retrieve up to 37.4 inches of line per crank. You can use the reel to reel in fish weighing up to 15.4 pounds, although it weighs a meager 10.8 pounds. Its seven stainless ball bearings facilitate the smooth operation of the unit. There is no shield to protect the ball bearings, but they are still durable, thanks to their stainless steel nature.
The Daiwa BG3000 comes with Digigear system that is very spacious for smooth retrieves. The system offers increased torque, giving you the power you need to reel in a fighting bass. Better yet, the air rotor enhances the balance of the reel while the spool makes it easy for you to cast. If you are looking for the best value in a reel, this might be a great choice.
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Cadence is a new entrant in the fishing reel industry. Although it is not as common as the other reel on my list, it still performs excellently and gives you value for your money. The company sells directly to the consumers; so, no middleman, and this guarantee affordable pricing.
The CS10 spinning reels pack a durable construction. Their rugged design allows them to handle any kind of weather condition and reel in large fish with minimal hassle. It has great balance that makes it an ideal choice for most bass fishermen. The unit sports a magnesium frame with anti-reverse and carbon fiber drag system that enhance the smoothness of operation of the reel.
You can drag a fish of up to 20 pounds. The unit further feels smoother, thanks to the 11 corrosion resistant stainless steel ball bearings. The bearings have no sealing, but they still last long. Cadence CS10 Spinning Reel is a lightweight reel. Cadence pays so much attention to the details to enhance maximum performance regardless of the fight the fish puts forward.
Whether you need to fish bass or smaller fish, there is a configuration for you with the CS-10. Better yet, this reel is almost maintenance-free. I fancy the anti-reverse feature on the CS-10 as it locks the handle so you do not lose the fight to a fish.
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The Penn Battle II will not break your bank. It comes at an affordable price, but still performs exemplary well. It sports a coating of improved paint, giving it protection against saltwater. If you take care of this reel, you get a reel that lasts for many years.
The Penn Battle II has a high gear ratio at 6.2:1 and is able to retrieve up to 35inches of fishing line per crank. This way, you can pull the fishing bass fast. The unit weighs 12.3 pounds, but can reel in fish of up to 15 pounds. The operation feels smooth, thanks to the five seal-protected ball bearings.
With anti-reverse bearing, the hookset feels very stable and you will win the fight. The unit has a monoline capacity of 180 yards per 10 pounds. On the Superline spools are capacity rings that indicate how much line you still have on the spool. Better yet, the system comes with a rubber inlay that lets you load a braided line directly on the spool without necessarily backing it up with a mono. The Battle II is an ideal unit if you are looking for a reel that performs excellent in saltwater that is priced affordably.
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The One Bass R-Spider Spinning Reel is tough to last long whether you fish in freshwater or saltwater. It would pass as the best inshore spinning reel on this list. It is also affordable, making it an all-purpose spinning reel for fishermen who go for fighting fish. The anti-corrosive nature of the reel enables it to last through the years even when used in very salty water.
Each reel comes with a rigid carbon fiber motor with tough gears and an aluminum spool to offer increased strength and a smooth operation. The hollow frame design coupled with high-performance oscillation system makes this unit an ideal choice when you need a reel to use for many years. With the innovative oscillation system, you are able to cast a long distance to achieve the perfect line lay.
The reel is lightweight, but can still reel in 39.5 pounds. Its lightweight design and the ergonomic handle knob make it a great choice for beginners as well as experienced anglers. Better yet, the system offers a smooth retrieve. If you are a beginner, the anti-twist line roller makes it easy for you to remove tangles.
The drive gear on this system sports an anti-corrosion zinc alloy build with an excellent stopping power. Furthermore, the R-Spider features 12+1 stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth reel. With a smooth drag, this unit performs great on open seas.
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The Pflueger Supreme SUPXTSP35x packs a magnesium body, rotor, and side plate. This magnesium construction not only enhances durability, but also makes the reel light in weight. Its double-anodized aluminum spool resists corrosion and helps reduce the weight of the reel.
It has a high gear ratio of 6.2:1 and is able to retrieve up to 33.8 inches of fishing line per crank. You can reel in a 12-pound fighting bass with minimal effort. While this isn’t the maximum drag, it is still pretty impressive when fishing medium sized bass. With 10 stainless steel ball bearings, the unit operates very smoothly.
The carbon drag system feels light, but will last for many years. Nevertheless, it allows some dirt to get into the reel, which means the reel needs more maintenance. The knob on the reel sports an ergonomic, but I would have loved it more if it was a little bigger.
Although this reel cannot handle braid line, it still operates efficiently once you learn how to use it efficiently.
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If you want a high quality spinning reel at an affordable price, I recommend you try this one out. It comes with a beautiful design that is lightweight and sturdy for ease of use and durability. The strength is a result of the high-strength interweaved carbon strand body, rotor, and side plate.
This system is very versatile and packs a horde of features. The unit has 9 stainless steel ball bearings for a super smooth retrieve. Its anti-reverse is smooth too. The unit comes in four sizes; the small one for small bass sizes of up to 6 pounds and the large ones can reel in up to 13 pounds.
I love the weight of this reel, or the lack of it, thereof. The smallest reel, which is the HSX-20 weighs only 6.2 ounces while the largest reel, the HSX-40, weighs only 9.1 ounces. The lightweight design is a result of the lightweight aluminum construction of the main gear. The pinion gear sports a machined brass construction, which further adds to the lightweight and sturdy nature of the reel.
The cyclonic flow rotor design is one of the most innovative features of this reel. This rotor has ports and a unique shape that allow it to keep water and moisture away during use. This prevents the unit from corrosion during usage and in storage. The reel looks and feels comfortable and you do not have to empty your bank to buy it. It is an excellent choice for experienced anglers and beginners alike.
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The reel from RUNCL sports a perfect balance between performance, quality construction, and cost. This is one of the most affordably priced spinning reels. If you are looking for the best spinning reel for bass fishing on a budget, you might consider this unit.
The reel sports a full anodized metal body that resists scratches and corrosion. It further has 10 corrosion-resistant shielded stainless steel bearings to deliver a smooth action. The shield system is entire, which means that no water or dirt gets into the real. This not only makes the reel easier to manage, but also provides longevity.
The computerized numerical control machined aluminum spool coupled with the hollowed out rotor, reduces the reel’s weight significantly. This balances the weight that the metal body adds. The drag system features multiple discs with carbon fiber washers to reliably stop power. This drag system is ideal when you are fighting bass. You can use this reel with heavier braided fishing lines.
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| Image | Title | Score | Price | View On Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 
| KastKing Royale Legend/Whitemax Low Profile Fishing Reel | 4.4/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000 XG FB Spinning Fishing Reel With Front Drag | 4.6/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel | 4.4/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel | 4.7/5 | $$$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Cadence CS10 Ultralight Fast Speed Premium Magnesium Frame Fishing Reel | 4.5/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel | 4.7/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| One Bass Fishing reels Light Weight Saltwater Spinning Reel | 4.2/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Fishing Reel | 4.3/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel | 4.7/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| RUNCL Spinning Reel TITAN I | 4.7/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
A few years back, baitcasters dominated the bass fishing industry. I still have my baitcasters and rods that I no longer use. I have seen so many beginners go for the best baitcasters on the market to help them catch the largest bass.
Today, baitcasters are cast aside and spinning reels rule. Although baitcasters are ideal when you need to achieve distance and to pull out your catch from thick cover, the spinning reel comes in handy when you need to fish without the fish realizing what hit them. The reel helps you lure timid feeders.
You need to ensure that you pick a reel that lives up to its marketing hype and lets you emerge victorious when a bass fights in water. Today, with thousands fishermen using spinning reels, the number of spinning reel brands has increased. Spinning reels come with loads of features, but not all features matter when it comes to bass fishing. Basically, you need a reel that offers you the subtlety to hook a bass and the sturdiness to pull the bass out of water. Again, you need a reel that lasts for many seasons.
Bass fishing requires quality equipment – the best spinning reels, therefore, should be up to the task. For starters, the reels should withstand vibrations from hours of boat rides, the hard weather, changes in temperature, salt in water, and being knocked on surfaces repeatedly.
Bass is a popular gamefish, thanks to its large body and its fighting spirit. When you hook a bass heavier than 5 pounds, you need a reel that is study as the fighting increases the drag power needs of a reel.
The best spinning reel for bass sports an aluminum, graphite, or carbon composite build material. Aluminum offers a tighter fit, lasts long, and is light in weight. Graphite is even lighter than aluminum and is better at resisting corrosion. Carbon composites, which are very common today, offer the strength, lightweight, and corrosion resistance qualities.
Whichever material you choose, the reel should be solidly built without any lose part and with everything seamlessly joined.
When it comes to the drag system, you need two things to consider to buy the best spinning reel for bass; smoothness and strength. Strength is important because you need to set the hook and stop a bass when it fights for its life. Smoothness is essential to prevent the line from getting tangled or snapping when in use. It also allows you the preciseness needed to cast weightless worms and smaller jigs.
A front end drag is preferred for its efficiency. Most front-end drags have multiple drag washers that are greased or sealed to keep off corrosion and debris. For the drag amount, choose at least two pounds higher than the weight of the fish you need to catch. A drag amount of between 10 and 12 pounds is enough to catch bass.
The spool of a reel sports an aluminum or graphite construction. Some manufacturers use carbon for the reels. Aluminum is strong and graphite is light while carbon offers the best of both. The important aspect to consider about your reel is whether you can use a braided line. If you are targeting bass, a braided line gives you the ruggedness you need to stop a fighting bass. Choose a unit that is braided-ready – which means it should take the braided line without the need for backing.
It takes time to catch bass. In most cases, you need long casts and long runs. The long casts might cause the line to break as a result of snags. Therefore, you need to have a lot of line on your reel. Manufacturers list the line capacity of a reel on the spool and in the reel’s user manual. The capacities listed are for monofilament and braided lines and several line diameters. For bass fishing, consider the braided line capacity.
Gear ratio tells you the number of revolutions the reel rotor makes with every turn of the handle. In this case, the higher the gear ratio, the faster the retrieve speed of the reel. A standard ratio of 6:1 is ideal for bass fishing. A higher gear ratio is not always good as it means less power. A low gear ratio is not also good as it makes the retrieval jerkier.
The smoothness of a reel is as a result of the gears and the bearings in it. You need a sturdy gear with great alignment to prevent instances where the gear locks and fails to move. For the bearings, ensure the reel has at least four of them for optimal performance. However, the quality of the bearings is more important than the number. Ensure you have stainless steel bearings that do not rust or corrode. Quality bearings will resist wear and tear for many years to keep your reel running smooth.
Most of the reels on the market come in varying sizes and weights. The main features of the different variants of the same model are the same, but the size makes all the difference. Size affects the weight, power, drag, spool capacity, and all these are important in bass fishing.
When choosing a reel size and weight, consider your fishing rod. The largest rod on the market stands at 9 feet. This is not ideal for bass fishing since it is cumbersome. The smallest rod is 5 feet, but this does not get heavy baits far enough and does not have the cranking power you need. The right bass fishing reels should balance perfectly in a medium-sized fishing rod. I found models that weight between 9 and 14 ounces to be the best for bass fishing as they balance with 6 to 7.5 foot rod. When you balance the rod length with the right reel weight and size, you reduce the fatigue you might get after long hours fishing.
If you want to have great control when you go fishing for bass, you need anti-reverse handles. Simply put, this feature ensures the handle does not spin backward, giving you powerful and accurate hook sets. If the reel you are considering has any sort of backward motion, it is better to consider a different model.
Still on handles, a good reel should have a comfortable, large, and ergonomic arm and knob. When the knob is large enough, an angler finds it with much ease. It also allows a firmer grip and reduces slippage during wet weather or when your hands are sweaty.
While shopping for real might look like a challenging task, you only need to understand how a reel works and the main parts of the reel and you are good to go. I have mentioned most of the parts (those important to bass fishing) and operations of the reel. I advise that you purchase the best reel that’s affordable so you can use it for many seasons; do not compromise on quality to save a few bucks.
Braised lines are the strongest and will withstand the weight and the fighting nature of the bass. Granted, you need to choose a reel that can accommodate a braided line.
The easiest way is to check product descriptions and features provided by the manufacturer. You can also check the spool inlay of the reel. A rubber inlay is the best for braided lines.
No, any real will work well for you. Most reels allow you to switch the retrieve so you can use them whether you are right-handed or left-handed.
Most bass fishers take it as a sport. Unlike fishing tilapia, bass fishing takes patience and skills. Bass will fight before you get them to the boat. They also detect the littlest of vibrations in water. Catching a large bass gives you a great feeling – the moment you hold the fish on your arms is insta–worthy.
Anodization is the process of exposing aluminum to an electrolytic process to make it corrosion-resistant. Instead of paint, which might come off, manufacturers use anodization, which makes the reels much stronger.
Nothing feels better when you are fishing than catching a 10+ pound bass. You will want to hold it up and maybe even take a photo to motivate you for the next fishing season. However, to get that bass, you need the right equipment and patient. One of the equipment that makes all the difference is a reel; you need the best spinning real for bass.
From my tests and reviews, the KastKing Royale Legend is the best budget fishing reel for both beginners and veterans alike. The Shimano Stradic Ci4+ is the best overall with a great balance of innovative features, durable construction, weight, drag, and cost. Both these reels will last for many seasons and sport ergonomic designs for ease of use.
Again, you do not have to try every reel on the market; try one of the two above and you will have an easy time hunting for a bass.
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