Spinning reels are very popular among anglers as they have a clear advantage of the ease of use over the baitcaster or casting reels. Bass spinning reels are versatile, easy to use, and are easy to learn. Due to their straightforward casting abilities, they are also popular among learners and amateurs.
Finding the best bass spinning reel isn’t an easy job. The market is saturated with a number of good bass fishing reels. Usually, these reels follow S series comprising of various models. These models share some standard features and significantly differ in size and performance.
Before investing in a new bass reel, you need to get sound knowledge related to its specifications and performance capacity.
Quick Pick
- Best Spinning Reel For Bass: Shimano Stradic Ci4+
- Top Rated Bass Spinning Reel: Abu Garcia Revo SX
- Best Value Bass Fishing Reel: Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel
- Best lightweight Bass Reel: Pflueger Supreme XT
- Best Heavy Fishing Reel: Penn Slammer III Bass Spinning reel
- Ultralight Spinning Reel Under $100: Okuma Ceymar
- Best Long Cast Spinning Reel: SHIMANO Stradic FL
- Saltwater Bass Spinning Reel: Daiwa Fuego LT
- Best Reel Under $50: KastKing Megatron
Comparison Table
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK  | SHIMANO Stradic CI4+
| 9.4 | Check on Amazon |
BEST SELLING  | Abu Garcia Revo SX
| 9.5 | Check on Amazon |
EDITOR’S CHOICE  | Daiwa Bg
| 9.7 | Check on Amazon |
 | Pflueger Supreme XT
| 9.7 | Check on Amazon |
 | PENN Slammer III
| 9.8 | Check on Amazon |
 | Okuma Ceymar
| 9.7 | Check on Amazon |
 | SHIMANO Stradic FL
| 9.7 | Check on Amazon |
 | Daiwa Fuego LT
| 5.5 | Check on Amazon |
 | KastKing Megatron
| 9.6 | Check on Amazon |
9 Best Bass Spinning Reels in 2022
Shimano Stradic Ci4+: Best Spinning Reel For Bass
Shimano Stradic Ci4+ is a nearly waterproof reel for bass fishing that is ideal for saltwater and inshore fishing. Some incredible features of Stradic Ci4+ make this the best spinning reel for bass. The most fantastic feature of this reel is quality, It includes the metal casing, carbon-fiber body, well-positioned blades, and sleek gearbox and carbon-fiber body makes it durable and lightweight. This construction and design make it almost entirely water-resistant, so it will stay longer with you if you take care of it.
In addition to that, the best features of this bass spinning reel are the smooth dragging force, extended gear function and. This incredible gear functions because of the HAGANE technology. Hagane Cold forge bearings provide the smoothest retrieve which serves as an essential boost to this best bass fishing spinning reel. Moreover, a superior quality lightweight magnum-light rotor helps the gear work even more smoothly. The front dragging force is another remarkable feature of this reel.
It comes with six stainless steel, durable bearings that make casting, cranking, and reversal a breeze. Moreover, a perfect balance between weight and body is established by moving the center of mass closer to the rod. Also, the cold-forged aluminum spool makes it durable, adds more power to it, and has a clear advantage over die-cast graphite spools.
Line retrieval ease is a critical feature to consider. Thankfully, Shimano Stradic Ci4+ features a 30-inch line release in a single click. This feature promises smoothness and ease of usability.
- Sturdy Carbon Fiber-Body and GearBox
- Lightweight-only 5.6 Oz
- Magnum-Light Rotor for Smooth Casting
- Cranking Effect of 35 Inches
- Too lightweight for Windy Conditions
Abu Garcia Revo SX -Top Rated Bass Spinning Reel
Abu Gracia is another competitively priced spinning reel for bass fishing that combines excellent quality and incredible features. This is a spinning reel for bass that features exclusive innovations by Abu Gracia like Rocket Line Management System and ever last bail. The rocket line management system is dedicated to providing better control over the fishing line, allowing direct connection of spool and braid while the Rocket lip design of the spool provides exceptional control over the line coming off the spool.
It also comes packed with a K-clutch anti-reverse, anti-craft single-piece aluminum gearbox, silky smooth garage, and front-positioned drag adjustment. Therefore we can say that it is built for performance where four different models in this line provide different dragging pressure and monofilament capacity and line recovery. For example, dragging force ranges from 10 to 17 pounds, and the line recovers from 30 to 40 inches.
Its carbon six body and alloy frame makes it lightweight and corrosion-free, and it stays for a longer time. It is available in a beautiful red and black color scheme, which looks pretty good. Furthermore, in regards to casting, it is one of the best spinning reels for bass fishing. The spool lip has a nice angle that allows the line to flow more freely and smoothly. Moreover, the aluminum spool is exceptionally thick and solid and guarantees excellent performance. Featuring only a one-piece gearbox and single main gear, this spinning reel’s retrieve feature is pleasing, but not the best one. It also comes with nine high-quality stainless steel HPCR bearings, including a roller bearing. This bearing system prevents corrosion, allows easier reeling and longer cast. In short, you can expect excellent performance when there is a big fish on the line.
- Extremely Lightweight and Durable
- Front-Positioned Drag Adjustment
- Easy Casting
- Fast Retrieve for Inline Cpinnerbaits
- Low Drag Pressure
Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel – Best Value Bass Spinning Reel
Daiwa Bg Spinning reel is amongst the good bass fishing reels under $150 as it’s an all-around spinning reel that gives a solid performance and is suitable for experts and beginners alike. The feature that helps it stand out as the best spinning reel for bass fishing is its excellent build quality and top-quality components. This spinning reel features a machined “Hard Bodyz” aluminum side cover and adds more strength and stability.
Moreover, the anodized black finish also makes it highly resistant to corrosion, gives a sturdy feel, and guarantees a longer life. Also, the extended Digigear system also ensures the best performance and provides excellent power and speed to the spool by allowing more teeth to come in contact with each other. Moreover, the carbon ADT drag system is entirely waterproof, and the Dynamic cut Abs aluminum spool does not allow inline sleeping, making it one of the finest bass spinning reels.
Additionally, it features an air rotor that is exceptionally lightweight and results in smooth casting and less casting friction. It also allows easy and straightforward cranking- thanks to its in-handle screw design. Also, the six BB stainless steel ball bearings ensure rust protection, but unfortunately, it is not entirely waterproof.
- Durable and Sturdy Body
- Extended Gear for a Smooth Retrieve
- Excellent casting
- Suitable for Experts and Beginners
- Not waterproof
Ultimately, the Daiwa Bg spinning reel features a durable and water-resistant body and internal components. The best thing is that these components are also readily available. Moreover, the extended gear feature makes it easy to retrieve, and the air rotor makes the casting easy and smooth. If you are looking for a top spinning reel for the bass at a reasonable price, the Daiwa Bg spinning reel is the best option for you.
Pflueger Supreme XT
Pflueger Supreme XT spinning reel is a lightweight bass spinning reel that comes packed with amazing features like a solid drag system, magnesium body, and best design for ease of usability. The Pflueger Spinning fishing reel’s best part is its super-lightweight magnesium body, side plates, and rotor. This construction makes this bass spinning reel corrosion-free and an excellent choice for saltwater fishing.
Moreover, the aluminum spool is also highly resistant to corrosion, and it is also made extremely lightweight by sidewalls. In addition to a lightweight and durable aluminum spool, it also features the lightest drag system. Thankfully the carbon-fiber drag system is perfectly sealed, and that doesn’t allow the saltwater to penetrate and makes it a long-lasting device.
It accommodates a braided line, and the lightweight drag system makes the retrieval butter-smooth and straightforward. It also comes with a carbon fiber handle that is 21% lighter than an aluminum handle provides excellent grip and makes the retrieval quick and effortless. Another fantastic feature of this spinning reel is its ten ball bearings. These ball bearings are resistant to corrosion and give a solid performance.
Remember that magnesium construction makes it extremely lightweight, but if you want a water-proof or 100% corrosion-resistant bass spinning reel, consider the reels with aluminum construction.
- Water Repellent
- Solid Design
- Longer Casting Performance
- Smooth Drag
- Not such Complaint About this Product
In conclusion, It is an extremely lightweight bass spinning reel that combines sturdy construction and remarkable feature exceptional performance. The perfectly sealed carbon fiber drag system doesn’t allow salt and debris to penetrate the gear mechanism making it a long-lasting and durable bass spinning reel.
Penn Slammer III Bass spinning Reel
Penn slammer III is a heavy-duty, top spinning reel for bass fishing that can withstand the repetitive casting of heavy baits and lures. Saltwater and sandy conditions. What makes it a good bass fishing reel is its nearly waterproof statement. It comes with an IPX6 waterproof rating. Moreover, a perfectly sealed drag system means if you drop the reel in saltwater or sand or continuously get the salt sprays, you can rinse it with fresh water, and it will work perfectly.
Also, eight models are in line with a drag force ranging from 10 lb to 60 lb and retrieval of 37-inches to 43 inches. It is evident that you can use it for multiple fishing styles, for example, the lowest model with 10 lb drag for in-shore fishing and the top models in the line to manage heavy loads with their immense drag power.
As it is meant to be used for heavy-duty fishing applications, more strength is added to the reel by a full metal body, an exclusive dura-drag material, and a sturdy spool design. Another excellent feature of the bass spinning reel is its precise and accurate gear system. The brass gear system consisting of a gearbox, pinion, drive, and isolation gears guarantees reliable and excellent cranking power.
The brass material is found to be more durable than aluminum material, and it also adds smoothness and additional power to the gear system. There are heavy line springs on both ends of the spool, telling you how much line is left on the spool. The first three models in one line, 3500 to 5500, feature automatic bail trips, while the higher models come with manual bail trips.
- Excellent for Heavy Loads
- Brass Gearing System with Precision
- Lower Models for In-Hhore Fishing
- Some Anglers Consider it a Heavy Reel
To summarize, Penn Slammer III offers eight spinning reels for bass fishing so that you can choose according to your style and needs. With an IPX6 waterproof status, full metal body design, bras gear system, and thoroughly sealed drag system, it is one of the sturdiest reels for bass fishing. You would also love this model for its other features like automatic bail trip and seven stainless steel ball-bearing systems.
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel
Okuma Ceymar is a compact size spinning reel that offers excellent strength for heavyweights and smooth performance. It comes powered with an incredible set of features, making it the best bass spinning reel in 2022. This spinning reel features a multi-disc drag system. This system adds excellent power and strength for a smaller area, making the drag smooth and straightforward. Moreover, the anti-reverse ball bearing makes it efficient and reliable by not allowing the reel to turn backward.
Another worth-mentioning feature of this spinning reel is the ease of usability. Its lightweight construction, smart Okuma RESII computer balancing, EVA handle knobs, and aluminum handle are dedicated to providing relief and comfort while using this spinning reel. It is made with highly durable and quality materials, making it a reliable and long-lasting bass fishing reel. Excellent graphite material is used for the body, and aluminum material is used to make the sturdy handle.
It comes in an ambidextrous design and also supports braided and monofilament fishing lines. In terms of performance, this reel will not let you down at any point. It offers a sufficient drag for catching different weights, and a drag adjustment knob allows different drag settings.
Different models are available in the series from C-10 to C-60. one can choose the model according to the source condition, fishing style, or requirements. The only downside of this bass spinning reel is that it is not ideal for saltwater and can be easily damaged in those conditions.
- Compact size and lightweight
- Multi-Disc Drag System for Smooth Retrieval
- Ease of Usability
- Not For saltwater Fishing
To sum up, Okuma Ceymar offers the best value for money as it comes packed with excellent features and quality materials. The lightweight construction and sleek design make it ideal for in-shore and light-duty fishing. Moreover, the multi-drag system is dedicated to providing longer casting and smooth retrieval for different catch weights.
SHIMANO Stradic FL
SHIMANO Stradic FL is a lightweight yet sturdy spinning reel for bass fishing that features an improved design and additional features for reliable performance and additional strength. In this series, Additionally Shimano has introduced a longer stroke spool that offers extra-long casting distance. The feature that helps it stand out as the best bass spinning reel in 2022 is its HAGANE metal body.
Its sturdy metal construction with aluminum and magnesium results in minimum flex and maximum rigidity. This feature is beneficial for improving the cranking power. It also offers exceptionally smooth rotation and incredible power-thanks to micromodule gear II. This micro module gear 11 also combines with a silent drive for superior performance of the internal components.
Although many sealed reels claim to be waterproof but they are not. However, Shimano Stradic FL spinning reels are protected by an x-protect water repellent coating that prevents water intrusion in the internal parts and reduces the damage by external weather conditions. Moreover, additionally, the heavy-duty cross carbon drag system guarantees smooth rolling and easy line low.
- Long-Stroke Spool for Extra Casting
- Lightweight and Sturdy Body
- X-Protect Waterproof Coating
- Not Ambidextrous Design
Lastly, Shimano Stradic FL is an improved and updated spinning reel series that is dedicated to providing flagship-level performance for bass fishing. It features a long-stroke spool for enhanced casting, a cross carbon drag system for excellent power and strength, and a rigid body for incredible cranking power. Moreover, you can choose from five different models in the series according to your fishing style.
Daiwa Fuego LT
Daiwa Fuego LT is another saltwater spinning reel, featuring a lightweight carbon body and offers great drag and smooth retrieval. The feature that makes it an ideal spinning reel for saltwater is its Magseal. It prevents unwanted intrusion like salt, water, dust, and debris and increases the reel’s lifespan.
Additionally, it comes with a tough and solid DigiGear mechanism. It is an extended gear system that is designed digitally, using CNC cutting technology. It brings more teeth in contact, makes the retrieval butter smooth, and also makes it durable as many teeth can tackle the torque and pressure. You can also choose from three gear ratios, 5.2:1, 5.3:1, and 6.2:1, depending upon your fishing style.
For excellent support smoothness and stability, this spinning reel is powered by seven ball bearings. Furthermore, these bearings are made from anti-rust stainless steel material, but they are not completely waterproof. Daiwa Fuego LT spinning reel is also made lightweight and sleek to make it ideal for saltwater bass fishing. Carbon-infused housing construction also makes it lightweight and sturdy. It features a sturdy aluminum handle that feels solid. The handle also features an ambidextrous design, allowing you to use both of your hands for retrieval.
For overall weight reduction, it comes with an air rotor and air bail. The air rotor makes it extremely lightweight and is responsible for even stress distribution. The drag system in this spinning reel is also exceptional. All in all, it provides strong drag pressure even for hard and heavy-duty fishing applications.
- Lightweight and Durable
- Magseal for Saltwater Application
- Ambidextrous Design
- Flexy Body
Daiwa has introduced some innovative features like LT technology, a digitally designed gear system, and a Magseal mechanism, making it the 2022’s best bass spinning reel. It is amongst the top spinning reels for fishing that features a lightweight yet sturdy housing construction and sleek design for in-shore fishing.
KastKing Megatron
KastKing Megatron is another good bass reel for fishing with an aluminum body, brass gear system, and stainless steel shaft. This construction makes the device ideal for saltwater and can withstand harsh environmental conditions for many years. It is a competitively priced spinning reel that comes with a triple disk drag system. You will find several models with varying specifications. The higher models can provide a drag of up to 47 lb, making them an excellent choice for heavy lifting.
The aluminum alloy handle is solid and sturdy and features an ambidextrous design, and can be used by both hands. In addition, there are five models in this line with varying gear ratios ranging from 4.5:1 to 5:1. Moreover, this is an ideal gear ratio that provides medium gar speed for heavy-duty applications. For additional smoothness, support, and strength, this model comprises a seven-ball-bearing system. This system makes the retrieval butter smooth and adds incredible cranking power.
The overall construction of this bass spinning reel is amazing. The C1+ carbon body makes it lighter and solid. Also, the cold-forged aluminum spool is solid and guarantees facilitated casting.
- Lightweight and Sturdy Construction
- Ideal for Saltwater
- Triple-Disk Drag System for Powerful Drag/li>
- Lower Models are Overpriced
If you are looking for a lightweight yet durable spinning reel for bass, consider Kastking Megatron. It is one of the best bass spinning reels in 2022 that offer a powerful drag, smooth retrieval, and excellent gear ratio. Moreover, its perfect sealing technology and anti-corrosion capability make it ideal for saltwater applications.
Buyer’s Guide
Finding the best spinning reels for bass fishing is challenging as you need to consider multiple features. These features directly affect the performance, durability, and reliability of the bass spinning reel.
Here is all that you need to consider before buying a best bass spinning reel
Size of Reel
It is essential to choose the right size of a spinning reel for bass fishing. The reel’s size and weight are going to make a great difference as they affect the dragging power, cranking speed, and spool capacity.
Usually, spinning reels come in a series with several models of varying sizes and weights. These models share some standard features but are entirely different from each other in performance and output. For example, the lower models in the series offer less line capacity and drag output; therefore, you cannot consider this model for heavy baits and lures.
For bass fishing, it is recommended to get medium-sized fishing reels around 6-10 lbs.
Bearings
Ball bearings or bushings in the reel provide smoothness, stability, support, and strength while fighting the fish. They lower the friction and can withstand torque and fatigue when fighting a heavy target on the hook. As a general rule of thumb, the more ball bearings used, the smoother and better the reel will perform.
It is recommended to get as many ball bearings as you can afford.
Drag System
The drag system is an important feature to consider as it provides the required pressure to apply on a hooked fish and allows the line to flow out during the fish fight. It is recommended to get a smooth and superior quality; otherwise, it will result in broken lines and fish.
You also need to decide between the rear and front-mounted drag system. The front positioned drag washers are usually large and offer superior performance and increased durability. On the other hand, rear-positioned gear washers offer easy access and make the adjustment a breeze.
Reel Gear Ratio
In spinning reels, the spool is fixed on the reel. The gear ratio determines the number of turns the bail rotates on the spool with a single rotation of the handle. For example, in a reel with a 6:1 gear ratio, the bail rotates six times on the spool with a single turn of the handle. 6:1 gear ratio results in fast speed retrieval. Similarly, we can expect slow speed retrieval from a reel having a 4:1 gear ratio. It is recommended for bass fishing to get a reel with a 6:1 gear ratio, and it provides excellent cranking speed for most of the conditions.
Construction
Construction material is a critical factor to consider before choosing a new bass spinning reel for you. Usually, the aluminum and graphite materials are used to make up the body of a spinning reel for bass. Sometimes, both materials are also used in combination. The aluminum bodies tend to provide more strength and tremendous cranking power. They are more sturdy and offer minimal flex.
On the other hand, if you like lightweight spinning reels, you should go for the reel having a graphite reel. Graphite reels are also very durable; they have incredible anti-corrosion properties. Therefore graphite is an excellent choice for light-duty applications and saltwater fishing.
Weight
The weight of the reel directly affects the ease of usability of the reel. Lighter reels are dedicated to providing comfort and ease and releasing less strain and fatigue in the wrist and forearm. These reels are also an excellent choice for beginners, as they are easy to handle. The downside of getting a lighter reel is that it may not work properly in windy environments.
Wrapping Up
To make your bass fishing experience ideal, it is crucial to get the best bass spinning reels. Spinning reels are straightforward, and their simple operation and amazing casting abilities make them a favorite choice of anglers. Our list comprises the top spinning reels for bass, and you can safely go for one specific model depending on your style and requirement.
Our top-three picks from the list are
- KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel for lightweight and sturdy construction and incredible performance in saltwater.
- Shimano Stradic Ci4+ for its metal casing and carbon-fiber body for excellent strength and durability.
- Penn Slammer III Spinning Fishing Reel for its IPX6 waterproof status and excellent cranking power.
It is recommended to go for the model that suits best your fishing style and source. Usually, the lower models in the series come cheap, and they are ideal for light-duty applications like in-shore fishing. On the other hand, higher models in a series can handle large weights and can be used for surf brass fishing, shore fishing, and sea bass fishing.
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