By Tackle Warehouse | Updated January 2024
For anglers of all levels of expertise ranging from beginner to seasoned pro, it’s no secret that spinning reels are proven to perform in a variety of situations — having the right one for the right job makes all the difference. Granted, as most young anglers traditionally graduate to a spinning reel after using push-button spin casts in their youth, the market in 2024 has morphed into a more diverse and advanced landscape than ever, creating variables when selecting the proper tool.
Whether you're on a budget, looking for the best value, or simply seeking out recommendations for the overall highest performer on the market, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll explore the best spinning reels that we identified in 2024 for each category, including honorable mentions, all of which will make an superb addition to any rod and reel arsenal.
*** The TW staff comes from years of fishing experience with a variety of backgrounds and has used hundreds of spinning reels over the last two decades. The recommendations within the following categories were chosen in consideration of buyers who may encounter similar obstacles when narrowing down the options. ***
- Best Spinning Reel under $100 - Best Value Spinning Reel - Best Overall Performing Spinning Reel - Best Trout/Panfish/BFS Spinning Reels (500-2500 sized) - Best Bass Fishing Spinning Reels (2500-4000) - Best Oversized/Saltwater Spinning Reel (4000+)
Top Pick – Daiwa Exceler LT
Finding a solid, versatile spinning reel under $100 that doesn't compromise on quality can be a challenge. That’s why we nominated the Daiwa Exceler LT as the top pick in this category, as it offers affordability without sacrificing the same top-tier performance you’d get at a considerably higher price point. With features like a silky-smooth drag system, durable Digi-cut gearing, machined aluminum screw-handle, and ergonomic grips, it's perfect for anglers seeking a long-casting reel with the same lightweight feel of a higher-end product. Not to mention, it’s available in a variety of sizes that caters to nearly every fishery from coast-to-coast.
Honorable Mentions:
Top Pick – Shimano Stradic FM
For those evaluating the highest value for the price (best bang for your buck), in our eyes the Shimano Stradic FL outshone the competition. It combines a high-quality build with performance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced anglers in a variety of situations. With the incredibly light HAGANE Body, you’ll have increased durability at a decreased weight and features such as cold-forged HAGANE gears along with refined Micro Module Gear II gearing and Silent Drive to provide silky smooth operation and seamless engagement. The Stradic FL also stood out to us in terms of corrosion resistance and longevity, a result from X-Protect and X-Ship technology that works to eliminate debris from accumulating inside the reel. There are several amazing reels on the market that deliver a similar “bang for your buck”, such as the honorable mentions listed below.
Top Pick – Shimano Stella FK
In terms of performance and offering a mind-blowing blend of innovative features, the legendary and iconic Shimano Stella FK stood out to the TW staff as the best overall spinning reel in 2024. Built on the legacy HAGANE gear drive for strength, MicroModule II and InfinityXross technologies offer finer cut gear teeth that distribute load more evenly for exceptional gear durability and power. Most notable features include the InfinityDrive system, enhancing rotation by up to 30% under load and the DuraCross Drag System, combining felt-like smoothness with Cross Carbon toughness for up to 10 times the durability of standard drag systems. With a seamless line lay, InfinityLoop extends spool oscillation letting you bomb casts to previously unattainable distances. The new Anti-Twist Fin, redesigned drag knob, and reinforced propulsion lip further elevate line management and buttery-smooth reeling performance.
For those on a wider budget searching for a top-shelf performer, the honorable mentions below will similarly excel in exceeding expectations.
Honorable mentions:
Top Pick – 13 Fishing Aerios
Whether you’re using light tackle to target trout and panfish or using a bait finesse system (BFS) for bass, precision is always a key factor. The 13 Fishing Aerios was our top pick in this category as it was specifically designed to handle light lines and offer the finesse features required to successfully target these species. Pro-tuned at an affordable price point, 13 Fishing Aerios Spinning Reels feature a durable cast iron carbon construction and super-smooth reeling performance, allowing you to twitch those 1/64-1/16oz jigs with ease. With a patent-pending Coolstop drag system and versatile sizing options, they're ideal for tackling fish that put out small erratic runs and headshakes when hooked, catering to finesse anglers seeking exceptional lightweight performance.
Top Pick – Daiwa Tatula Elite Spinning Reel
The top pick in this category is tailored to handle classic spinning reel applications when targeting bass such as wacky rigs, drop shot, shakey head, skipping docks, or smaller hard baits. That's why the Daiwa Tatula LT Spinning Reels stood out to us as it prioritizes weight reduction and durability with advanced Zaion housing. Aircraft-grade A7075 aluminum DigiGearing ensures smooth rotation operability, making it easy on the user throughout the most grueling tournament sessions. Featuring patented Air Bail and Air Rotor technologies, the Tatula offers a winning combination of lightweight toughness for competitive use. While these reels are primarily used in finesse applications, they still offer the strength and versatility to tame an unexpected giant while maintaining a smooth drag. The honorable mentions listed below share this attribute as well.
Top Pick – Daiwa Saltiga SW
For oversized or saltwater applications, you need a spinning reel that can withstand harsh conditions and toughest battles. Our top pick in this category, the Daiwa Saltiga SW is an absolute bulldog built to handle the elements and provide enough torque to turn the head of those furious saltwater species. We evaluated corrosion resistance, longevity, and drag as the top factors within this category. The Saltiga stood out to us in all these aspects — constructed with a one-piece Monocoque body and a G1 Duralumin drive gear, the Saltiga SW offers enhanced strength and reduced wear. Its innovative Magsealed construction, using Magoil, ensures long-lasting saltwater resistance and friction-free rotation. Not to mention, the large aluminum knob lets you overpower hardy fish by providing a secure grip under heavy loads. When going head-to-head with the meanest gamefish, choose a reel that can stand up to their temper. The honorable mentions below are other fantastic options.
Regardless of your budget or how often you hit the water, spinning reels have a place in every angler’s arsenal. From affordability to top-tier performance, the top picks and honorable mentions in each category offer something special that caters to a variety of skill levels. Above all, be sure to choose the one that aligns with your specific use case and consider the features that play into it that will enhance your time on the water.
The best spinning reels will typically feature a smooth and reliable drag system, high-quality construction for durability, a comfortable handle, and a bail system that offers easy line management. Other factors to consider include gear ratio, line capacity, and weight, all tailored to what you aim to use the reel for. For a good all-around spinning reel size for bass fishing, spools in the 2500-4000 range are commonly used.
Choosing the right spinning reel to match a rod you already own isn’t as difficult as it seems. Simply pair the reel size in correspondence with the rod's power and action. Light rods (e.g., ultralight or light power rated for 4-10lb test) pair well with 500-2500 reels, while heavier rods (medium-heavy or heavy power 15-25lb rating) should be paired with larger reels up to the 4000 or sometimes 5000 size range to handle bigger fish and heavier lines. Always consider the balance and feel of the combination for a seamless fishing experience as well. Well-balanced setups will let you fish longer throughout the day due to their ergonomic and lightweight feel. At the end of the day, it’s up to the angler to dictate if a setup feels bottom heavy or in some cases top heavy. Go with your gut in what feels right; if a reel doesn’t match your rod based on the feel, you can always return it.
The number of bearings in a spinning reel can impact its smoothness and overall performance. Generally, more bearings tend to result in a smoother reel. However, it's important to note that the quality of the bearings is equally important as the quantity. High-quality, shielded, ceramic, or sealed bearings will offer better longevity and performance. While a higher bearing count is a good indicator, it's not the sole factor to consider. A spinning reel with a good balance of quality bearings is often a better choice — if anything, aftermarket bearings can always be used to upgrade a reel if you’re concerned about long-term smoothness.
A reliable drag system is critical when selecting a spinning reel. Look for a reel with a smooth, adjustable drag that can handle sudden bursts of power when a fish is pulling hard. A multi-disc drag system is often preferable as it spreads the pressure evenly, preventing jerky movements and ensuring a consistent pull against your quarry. The drag's overall stopping power and its ability to maintain that power under strain are also huge factors to consider.
To ensure effortless castability and line management, consider the following:
1. Spool Design: Opt for a spool that is specifically designed for a smooth line release. Look for features like a V-shaped or long-cast spool if you’re looking to get more casting distance. 2. Bail System: The bail system should close smoothly and consistently to prevent line tangles. An anti-reverse feature is also essential to prevent the handle from spinning backward while you're fighting a fish. 3. Line Roller: A high-quality line roller with bearings reduces line twist and ensures a smooth line lay on the spool during retrieval, even when you’re winding fast. 4. Line Capacity: Ensure that the reel's line capacity matches the type and weight of line you intend to use. It's important to avoid overfilling the spool, as this can hinder casting and line management. 5. Line Management Features: Some reels come with features like line clips, which can be used to hold the line in place during storage or transport. This feature can be especially useful when moving from one fishing spot to another. 6. Anti-twist Technology: Some spinning reels also come with anti-twist technology in the form of a rotor that oscillates smoothly, minimizing line twist and ensuring seamlesss line management.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your spinning reel is optimized for easy casting and efficient line management, maximizing your time on the water.