10 Best Spinning Reels 2024 in the US

Why should you buy a spinning reel?

Spinning reels are quite popular, and they are considered to be one of the most versatile pieces of equipment when fishing. The perfect combination of ergonomics and intuitive design is bound to make it easier, even for a beginner. But if you are a beginner, you may not be quite adept in selecting the best spinning reel. That is why we have brought you some expert tips, after having gone through thousands of spinning reel reviews on the Internet.​

What are the different types of fishing reels?

Here are some of the most common types of fishing reels available on the market:

• Spincast Reel: The spincast is the easiest modern fishing reel to use and is ideal for beginners. Using a spincast reel's drag adjustment mechanism, you can choose how much resistance a fish feels when pulling on your line. Spincast reels are extremely easy to operate and rarely cause line tangles. Furthermore, they are the cheapest fishing reels available.
• Spinning Reel: The spinning reel is without a doubt the most popular type of fishing reel. Though more difficult to use than spincast, this type is incredibly efficient and durable. Spinning reel features an open-face design with the drag adjustment on top. It also includes a metal bail for locking the line and preventing it from unraveling. With its rod attached from below, it ensures you have a natural holding position while casting, and it gives you a nice balance. Furthermore, they have some serious pulling power when coupled with thin, powerful braided lines. 
• Baitcasting Reel: Baitcaster reels are one of the most advanced types of fishing reel, featuring great power and precision, and are often used by professional anglers. There are a lot more moving parts on it than on a spinning reel or spincast. Due to this, they require some learning, but mastering them ultimately lifts your fishing game to the next level. This type of reel has a semi-enclosed design with a much sturdier build. It also has two additional components:
  • (1) a spool tension knob and
  • (2) a braking system.
• Both offer a higher level of performance, customization, and the ability to modify how fast the line exits the reel. Considering that baitcasting reels are capable of handling heavy lines and have a lot of pulling power, they are a good choice when chasing larger fish. 

What are the advantages of using spinning reel?

Compared to other types of reels, spinning reels have the following  advantages: 

• Easy to Use: Casting with spinning reels is very easy, and very little can go wrong if you follow the directions carefully. Thus, beginners can ignore the intricacies of casting technique, and instead enjoy the experience of catching fish without having to wrestle with their gear. User just have to open the bail, make your cast, close the bail, and then retrieve the line.
• Best for Lightweight Lures: Spinner reels can readily cast very light lures which makes them the best choice for finesse techniques and ultra light applications. In addition, they work well with very light monofilament or braid, such as 2- or 4-pound mono. 
• Versatile: There are many different presentations available for spinning reels, making them very versatile. As a result, they can be used in a variety of casting and fishing situations. It's also a convenient choice for beginners that just want to cast and retrieve with ease.
• Less Backlash: Due to the simple, user-friendly design of the spinning reel, it's a good choice for beginners since it has limited backlash and offers easy casting in the wind. Additionally, users are able to cast further with light line and light baits that normally wouldn't fly very far.

How should you buy a spinning reel?

Spinning reels are quite popular, and they are considered to be one of the most versatile pieces of equipment when fishing. The perfect combination of ergonomics and intuitive design is bound to make it easier even for a beginner. But if you are a beginner, you may not be quite adept in selecting the best spinning reel. That is why we have brought you some expert tips, after having gone through thousands of spinning reel reviews on the Internet.

What should you consider when buying a spinning reel?

Among the different types of spinning reels, when you buy the right one for yourself, you can effortlessly get hold of baits for species such as catfish, bass, permit, bluegill, redfish and a host of other big fishes. However, if you are clueless about what to look for while purchasing one of these reels, the following factors are worth considering:

• Check the gear ratio: The gear ratio is the amount of time the ball rotates around the spool in one rotation of the handle. The higher the gear ratio, the faster the speed of retrieval will be. You should start with a gear ratio of 5:1 or higher, so as to get enough speed for smaller types of bait. So the gear ratio depends greatly on the type of fishing that you want to perform.

• Go for an easily adjustable drag: Choose a product that has a drag system, which is smooth and can be easily adjusted. The drag system should be out in a continuous manner without any jerks on the way. A front drag system is always recommended.

• Check the total number of ball bearings: Decide on the number of ball bearings. The more ball bearings will mean that the operation will be more smooth. This is because the rotation of metal balls makes it easier for the reels to spin. You should go for a spinning reel with at least five ball bearings.

• Check the material: Opt for a metal construction, as it gives strength and durability to the reel, and you can quickly catch heavy fish, such as pike and catfish, as well as smaller ones such as tuna.

• Go for an anti-reverse handle: If you want your spinning reel to be suitable for all kinds of bait, buy a reel with an anti-reverse handle. This mechanism will stop the backward movement of the reel and will help the hook to stay firmly in position.

To enjoy your fishing trip to the fullest, do your homework and go for the spinning reel that suits you the best.