Best Crappie Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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For those who enjoy the sport of fishing, having the right equipment is essential. Crappie fishing is no exception, and choosing the right reel can make all the difference. Crappie fishing reels are specifically designed for this type of fishing, with features such as lightweight construction and smooth drag systems. These reels are also designed to handle the unique challenges of crappie fishing, such as the need for precision casting and the need to quickly retrieve the catch. With the right crappie fishing reel, anglers can improve their chances of success and make the most of their time on the water.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Lew's Mr Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 1
Lew's Mr Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Lew's Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker MCS50 Reel Cover #TOP 2
Lew's Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker MCS50 Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
B'n'M Poles Bucks Best Ultralight Crappie Reel Cover #TOP 3
B'n'M Poles Bucks Best Ultralight Crappie Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 6 Crappie Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

Lew's Mr Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel

Lew's
MCS100
Black
MCS100
Lew's Mr Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel Cover
Lews Fishing Mr Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel MCS100 Reels

The Lew's Slab Shaker Reel features a durable graphite body, rotor, and spool, ensuring that it is lightweight yet strong for your fishing adventures. Its 2 bearing construction allows for smooth operation, giving you a seamless experience when reeling in catches. The thin compact gear box contributes to a sleek design, making it easy to handle and transport. With these features, you can enjoy a more efficient and enjoyable fishing trip.

What We Like
Lightweight graphite construction
Smooth operation with bearings
Compact and easy to handle
Durable and strong materials
#TOP 2

Lew's Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker MCS50 Reel

Lew's
MCS50
Multicolor
One Size
Lew's Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker MCS50 Reel Cover
Lews Fishing Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker Spinning Reel MCS50

The Lew's Slab Shaker Reel is designed for anglers seeking a reliable fishing experience. Its graphite body, rotor, and spool ensure a lightweight yet durable construction, making it easy for you to handle during long fishing sessions. The 2 bearing construction offers smooth operation, enhancing your overall casting experience. With a thin compact gear box, this reel provides efficient performance without adding bulk, allowing you to enjoy a more streamlined fishing setup. Additionally, the gear ratio of 5.2:1 enables quick line retrieval, ensuring you can react swiftly to those elusive catches.

What We Like
Lightweight graphite construction
Smooth operation with 2 bearings
Compact gear box design
Quick line retrieval
#TOP 3

B'n'M Poles Bucks Best Ultralight Crappie Reel

B'n'M
BAN01
Black
BAN01
B'n'M Poles Bucks Best Ultralight Crappie Reel Cover
BnM Poles Bucks Best Ultralight Crappie and Panfish Reel

The B'n'M Ultralight Crappie Reel is designed for comfort and efficiency during your fishing trips. Made from crush resistant ABS material, it ensures durability while remaining super lightweight, allowing you to fish for longer without fatigue. The 2BB bearing system provides a smooth retrieval experience, making it easier for you to catch crappie and panfish effortlessly. With a gear ratio of 1:1, you can enjoy a straightforward operation, ideal for both beginners and seasoned anglers.

What We Like
Durable ABS construction
Lightweight design
Smooth retrieval system
Easy operation
#TOP 4

Dr.Fish ELF Ice Fishing Reel 800

DFRSDJ0
multicolor
Dr.Fish ELF Ice Fishing Reel 800 Cover
Dr.Fish ELF Ice Fishing Reel Spinning Reel Size 800 Ultralight 5oz Powerful 12Lb Max Drag 5+1 Stainless Steel Bearings Trout Pike Crappie Winter/Freshwater Fishing

The Dr.Fish ELF Reel is designed for winter fishing, featuring anti-ice build-up technology that ensures consistent performance in cold conditions. Its powerful 3-carbon-fibre drag system provides up to 12Lb of stopping power, allowing you to tackle various fish sizes smoothly. With a silky smooth 5+1 stainless steel ball bearing system, you can enjoy precise action for years to come. Plus, its ultralight weight of just 5oz means you can fish for longer periods without fatigue, easily detecting even the slightest bites.

What We Like
Anti-ice lubricant for winter
Powerful drag for big fish
Silky smooth operation
Lightweight for extended use
#TOP 5

TICA SB500 Trout Fishing Reel Series

TICA
SB500
Multi-coloured
5.2 Gear Ratio
TICA SB500 Trout Fishing Reel Series Cover
TICA SB500 Trout Fishing Series(Crappie/Pan Fishing Series) 5.2 Gear Ratio, Multi

The TICA SB500 Reel is designed for optimal fishing experiences. Its mini bearing inside the line roller enhances smooth line retrieval, making your fishing more efficient. The computer-designed balanced rotor ensures stability, reducing wobble during use. With the instant anti-reverse feature, you can hook fish without any delay, giving you an advantage when reeling in. Additionally, the soft touch handle knob, equipped with two stainless steel ball bearings, provides a comfortable grip, allowing for extended use without discomfort.

What We Like
Smooth line retrieval
Stable rotor design
Quick hook setting
Comfortable handle grip
#TOP 6

Accuretta Greek Lightweight Saltwater Fishing Reel

Accuretta
3000
Gray-3000
Accuretta Greek Lightweight Saltwater Fishing Reel Cover
Accuretta Greek CNC Aluminum Lightweight Saltwater Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel Size1000-6000

The Accuretta Fishing Reel is designed for anglers who value durability and performance. Its sturdy construction features a corrosion-resistant graphite body and a reinforced stainless steel main shaft, ensuring it withstands tough conditions. The multiple sealing design keeps the reel protected from elements, enhancing its longevity. With a precision gear system, you can enjoy a smooth rotational performance, making each cast effortless. The efficient retrieves at 37 inches per crank give you an edge in catching fish quickly.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant materials
Smooth rotational performance
Efficient retrieving speed
Versatile for various fishing types
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of reel is best for crappie fishing?

Top 5 Best Crappie Reels In 2021 Reviewed. SHIMANO Sienna FG Spinning Reel – Best on a Budget.DAIWA BG Spinning Reel – Best Allrounder.DAIWA Certate Spinning Reel – Editor's Choice.SHIMANO Vanford Spinning Reel – Best Finesse Reel.SHIMANO Stella FJ Spinning Reel – Best of the Best Bar None.

2. Is a Baitcaster good for crappie fishing?

any input would be great either way. It's harder to throw light baits with a baitcaster. It can be done, but a spinning reel will do it better (and cheaper.)

3. What is the best spincast reel for crappie?

Best Spincast Reel for Crappie: Daiwa Underspin US XD. Weight: 5.5 ounces, 9.2 ounces, 10.8 ounces.Line Capacity: 4/85, 8/75, 12/100.Gear Ratio: 4.1:1 and 4.3:1.

4. Can you cast with a crappie reel?

You "don't" cast with them .... they're primarily vertical jigging/dipping reels. Oh okay well that makes sense. So in a nutshell, it works like a cane pole set up, except if you get a bite it can take off with it depending on the drag and you can reel it in?

Editor's Notes

During our crappie fishing reel research, we found 101 crappie fishing reel products and shortlisted 6 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,783 customer reviews through our big data system to write the crappie fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose crappie fishing reels with an average price of £20.67.

The crappie fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of crappie fishing reels, including Lew's, B'n'M, Dr.Fish, TICA, Accuretta.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.