Best Spinning Reel for Bass Roundup Review
With such a wide range of options, it’s difficult to choose what is the best spinning reel for bass fishing.
I’m here to help; this article will list our spinning reel picks, including a review on each product with their pros and cons.
Spinning reels are a popular way of catching bass; this product roundup review aims to provide you with some knowledge about the best spinning reels to help you improve your catch.
Bass are opportunist; therefore, you can fish them with an abundance of baits and techniques.
While Bass is generally catchable, they’re not always easy to find which adds to the thrill of the chase!
As you may have experienced, unfortunate mechanical issues that occur amongst your tackle is unbelievably frustrating for any angler.
I’ve dealt with heavy reels, wind knots, frozen bearings and not to mention the dreaded snapped lines.
If you’re new to the world of bass fishing, don’t panic.
I aim to make sure that those unfortunate circumstances don’t happen to you.
Our selection includes some user-friendly budget picks suitable for the novice angler that doesn’t want to break the bank.
Also amongst our selection are some medium-high priced picks.
Does that sound good? Keep reading to find your spinning reel.
One Bass R-Spider DL2000 Inshore Reel
Tough-as-nails and affordable, the One Bass R-Spider is an all-purpose anti-corrosive spinning reel that’s an excellent choice for everything from lighter freshwater to medium saltwater fishing.
This durable reel also features a rigid C4LF carbon-fiber motor, extra hard PT gears, and an aluminum spool, providing an unusual amount of strength concerning the low price point.
I believe that the One Bass R-Spider is a smart choice for long-time fishing due to its hollow frame design and high-performance oscillation system. The oscillation system allows for an increased casting distance and helps to achieve the perfect line lay.
Suitable for experienced anglers, this reel is also great for beginners due to its reduced weight, oversized ergonomic EVA handle knob, and the silky smooth retrieve.
Another reason that this reel is ideal for beginners is the anti-twist line roller that helps to remove line twists and prevent tangles.
The anti-corrosion zinc alloy drive gear offers incredible stopping power, teamed with the 12+1 stainless steel ball bearings, providing an instant stop one-way anti-reverse smooth performance.
At a humble $30, this reel exceeded my expectations.
The One Bass R-Spider Inshore Reel performs exceedingly well on open-seas thanks to its smooth drag; I highly recommend this pick to beginners and casual anglers.
Pros
- Anti-corrosive spinning wheel
- Durable
- Budget friendly
- Versatile
- Increased casting distance
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for intermediate anglers
- Not a premium pick
Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel
The Penn Battle II feels great right out of the box being of solid full metal housing, whilst also having an aluminum bail wire for durability and strength.
The Battle II is an excellently designed reel for saltwater anglers (especially inshore fishing, kayak fishing, and wading) out to land the larger saltwater gamefish. Coming in a variety of spool sizes from 1000 up to 8000 to suit all situations, there is a fit for all needs.
Easy to assemble the Battle II comes in 2 parts and is as simple as inserting the handle into the reel housing, holding onto the spool and turning as if to reel in a catch.
The motor portion of the reel features a rubber gasket to prevent line slippage, allowing anglers to use braided line without the need for mono or electrical tape backing.
A wider spool allows for lower line memory, and features line capacity rings, creating an easy visual cue to improve line tracking.
Featuring a HT-100 Versa-Drag carbon fiber drag system giving the reel a sleek and frictionless drag on heavy loads (increasing to 30lbs with the 8000 model). Having a higher capacity for drag (up to 20% higher than previous models) proves useful in moments when you need to stop a catch dipping for cover or to prevent from being spooled out.
I found the cranking action on the Battle II felt creamy and effortless, which I attributed to its 5 stainless steel ball bearings, which is higher than average for reels of a similar price point.
Simultaneously, it has an instant anti-reverse bearing to aid the prevention of back play. It’s worth noting the ball bearings are also sealed within the unit halting the onset of erosion and providing longevity of use.
Technical Specs
Model#: BTLII5000
Mono Line Capacity (lb/yd): 12/225, 15/200, 20/135
Braided Line Capacity (lb/yd): 20/420, 30/300, 40/240
Max Drag (lb): 25
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
Line Retrieve Per Crank (Inches): 36”
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Weight (OZ): 19.8
Retrieve: Reversible
Pros
- Less line slippage due to the rubber gasket
- Solid construction
- Instant anti-reverse
- Sealed bearings provide longevity against saltwater corrosion
- Available in multiple spool sizes and gear ratios.
Cons
- The 5000-8000 models are much weightier than the rest of the Battle II line and those of similar spool size
- Bearings being sealed in the unit becoming worn
SHIMANO Sedona Fl Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel
Shimano combines their signature flagship Hagane gearing system with beautiful designs to offer phenomenal engineering and value for money.
The new Sedona FL is Shimano’s lowest price spinning real to include the upgraded Hangane cold-forged gears.
Cold-forged gears are designed to eliminate the cutting work that’s applied to the teeth of the drive gear.
Gear material and cut are vital mechanics that anglers can be quick to forget.
The circular, toothy units determine how strong and smoothly a reel turns, which is crucial in battles.
From experience, cheaper reels with lesser gears can feel like wind-up toys. If you’re an experienced angler seeking superior gearing, you should undoubtedly consider the Sedona FL.
This reel features double-anodized machine-cut spools for increased line capacity while the Propulsion Line Management System prevents wind knots and backlashes.
The new Sedona comes in sizes 1000 to 5000, and the G Free Body provides excellent comfort because the internal parts of the reel are closer to the rod.
Additionally, the weight has been reduced across all sizes to minimize jigging and fatigue during long days of casting.
Overall, the new Sedona Fl conforms to the core Shimano principles, it’s lightweight and built with quality materials at a competitive value.
Pros
- Perfect for freshwater fishing
- Phenomenal gearing
- Suitable for novice and experienced anglers
- Compact
- Light-weight
- Smooth operation
Cons
- No reverse-direction switch
Penn Spinfisher V Spinning Fishing Reel
Our priciest pick, the Spinfisher V Spinning Fishing Reel has a premium IPX5 sealed body and spool design.
Whether you get hit by a huge wave or leave it out in the spray, you can rest assured know that no saltwater will be able to access the gearbox.
HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers will allow you to accurately regulate the amount of line coming off your reel and different speeds.
Suitable for experienced fishermen, the Spinfisher V is ready for battle.
This reel is a solid build, heavy-duty, and perfect for harsh surfcasting due to its tight controls.
For surf fishing, I highly recommend this spinning reel. For its maximum potential, I suggest investing in a 10 to 12-foot ugly stick and 50lb braid.
The Spinfisher V’s watertight spinning reel provides excellent performance in sand and saltwater environments while offering exceptional protection from corrosion.
Some reels are notorious for closing on the cast.
The Spinfisher V has an HT-100 slammer drag system in a fully sealed spool allowing the friction trip ramp to prevent premature bail trip when casting.
Another great feature is the line rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity, this is invaluable because you’ll always know how much line remains during a tough fight.
Pros
- Great for experienced anglers
- Perfect for surf conditions
- Watertight and durable reel
- Line ring markings
- Spool requires no backing
- Braid ready
- Great value for money
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
- Higher price point
KastKing Summer/Centron Spinning Reel
KastKing keeps fishing fun with the Summer/Centron spinning reel that’s packed with features at a low price.
The narrow and lightweight graphite frame design and computer balancing system allows for user-friendliness, making it suitable for beginners and experienced anglers.
The high-powered Superior Drag System offers impressive stopping power up to 17.5lbs, and it has a precision machined pinion gear for head-to-head fish battles.
Summer/Centron’s spinning reel has a lighter CNC machined aluminum spool that has internal grooves for lube retention.
There’s also more fishing line capacity than earlier KastKing spinning reels.
Additionally, the smooth, durable ball bearings and anti-reverse bearing provide an ultra-smooth performance.
The gear ratio on the KastKing Summer/Centron is 5.2:1, which isn’t the quickest amongst our picks, however, is more than capable of performing well in freshwater conditions as designed.
I think that the Summer/Centron is a great budget choice for the novice or experienced freshwater fishermen.
This medium reel is excellent for catching bass, snapper, Morwong, Tailor, Cod, Mulloway, or Drummer.
The anti-reverse setting on the hook is a useful feature that makes for a snappy response when you feel a hit.
However, as advertised, I would not recommend this reel for saltwater fishing or freshwater fishing that requires a size 5000 reel and above.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Lightweight
- Compact design
- Excellent drag system
- Attractive appearance
Cons
- Not suitable for saltwater fishing
How To Choose The Best Spinning Reel for Bass Fishing
Spinning reels are versatile, easy-to-use, and are suitable for different types of fishing.
Finding your best spinning reel for bass fishing involves comparing mechanical features, durability, feel and ease of use amongst other specifications that we’ll cover.
We’ve developed a buyers guide of our best spinning reel selection which will provide you with the knowledge that you need to make your selection.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratio consists of two numbers, for example, 5.2:1. The first number, 5.2, tell you how many times the spool with turn with one crank of the handle.
Having a fast gear allows for swift retrieval of the lure when you need to battle a tricky fish or for when you want to skip bait across the top.
Most spinning reel gears have ratios between 5.2:1 to 6.2:1, faster reels can have gears clocking in at 7.1:01.
Spool Material
Usually, spinning reels are either graphite or aluminum.
Graphite frames are lighter and more corrosion resistant than aluminum frames, which are stronger and long-lasting.
Alternatively, magnesium frames combine the best features of graphite and aluminum because it’s light and resists corrosion.
Before deciding on your ideal frame construction, it’s essential to check whether your bail is corrosion-resistant.
Handle Knob
It’s important to look our for a comfortable handle, you’ll appreciate it after a long day on the water!
EVA material is more comfortable than plastic or rubber because of its softness and flexibility. The material is stress-crack resistant and has good low-temperature toughness resulting in excellent weathering.
The handle should spin freely to prevent experiencing premature fatigue as a result of stiff rotation.
Drag System
The ability to regulate the amount of line coming off the reel is dependant on the quality of the drag system.
The drag system is essentially a brake pad that prevents your line from snapping.
Although manufacturers may use different materials on the brake pad, all drag systems operate on the same principle.
Most modern manufacturers create reels that use a carbon fiber drag system because it’s easy to maintain, won’t slip and is adjustable.
Instant Anti-Reverse
The drag system and anti-reverse work together to prevent the handle from spinning backward.
When a fish hits your lure, you need the drag to work instantly.
Anti-reverse transfers the weight of the fight from the handle to the drag, avoiding the irritating situation where a locked handle causes the line to snap.
Sealed Components
Components like drag systems, bearings and gearboxes are not as vulnerable to saltwater induced corrosion if sealed.
The seals function like gaskets to keep the saltwater from reaching the inner mechanics, allowing the internal parts to corrode and wash the grease away.
Recap
Overall, my winner is the user-friendly and versatile Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel.
The Penn Battle II is one of the highest-rated spinning reels on the market, and it’s no surprise considering the affordable price.
The fair price tag combined with the braid-ready Superline spool and HT-100 carbon fiber drag system makes this spinning reel stiff competition against similar models.
Additionally, it has a powerful gear ration of 6.2:1, which is fantastic for fast retrieval.
Earlier in this article, I highlighted that manufacturers create reels that use a carbon fiber system because it’s adjustable and maintainable.
The Pen Battle II’s smoothness is thanks to the HT-100 carbon fiber system that provides a powerful drag that will prevent you from experiencing line snapping.
I’ve chosen the Penn Battle II as the best spinning reel for bass because it’s suitable for use in both fresh and saltwater.
The robust aluminum bail wire conquers weighty saltwater gamefish, unlike the SHIMANO Sedona fl and the KastKing Summer/Centron spinning wheel, that’s usable in freshwater only.
Although the SHIMANO and KastKing’s limited usability is reflected in the price, I think that it’s smart to spend a little extra to get a lot more.
Tell me what you think! Did you find this helpful? Leave a comment and tell us your favorite spinning reel for bass fishing.
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