Best Spinning Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Spinning fishing reels are an essential piece of equipment for any angler. These reels are designed to be lightweight and easy to use, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced fishermen. They are ideal for catching a variety of fish species, from small panfish to larger game fish. Spinning reels are known for their versatility and are suitable for use in both freshwater and saltwater environments. With a wide range of sizes and styles available, there is a spinning fishing reel to suit every angler's needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mitchell MX1 FS 6500 Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Mitchell MX1 FS 6500 Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Shakespeare SALT Pre-Spooled Spinning Reel 8000 Cover #TOP 3
Shakespeare SALT Pre-Spooled Spinning Reel 8000
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Spinning Fishing Reels

PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel

PURIV4000
Black Silver
4000
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Sea Spinning Reel - Spin Fishing, Jig, Lure Reel for All-Round Use, Boat, Kayak, Shore

The PENN Pursuit IV Reel is designed for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Its powerful sealed HT-100 multi-disk carbon drag system ensures a smooth line take, allowing you to battle big saltwater predators with ease. The ultra-lightweight and corrosion-resistant graphite body, combined with a machined aluminium spool, enhances durability and performance in harsh conditions. With four quality sealed stainless steel ball bearings, this reel rotates smoothly, and the instant anti-reverse bearing guarantees quick hook-ups, making your fishing experience more efficient and enjoyable.

What We Like
Smooth drag system
Corrosion-resistant materials
Instant hook-ups
Lightweight design

Mitchell MX1 FS 6500 Fishing Reel

Mitchell
1544508
Black
6500
Mitchell MX1 FS 6500 Fishing Reel Cover
Mitchell MX1 FS 6500 Allround Fishing Reel - Spinning Free Spool Freshwater Carp Fishing Reels and Deadbait Pike & Zander Anglers - Robust and lightweight Black Aluminium - 2+1 Bearings

The Mitchell MX1 Reel is designed for reliability and ease of use. Its multi-disk drag system ensures smooth line management while you're fighting fish, giving you confidence in your catch. The robust design, featuring a lightweight body and durable materials, means it can withstand tough conditions. Additionally, the free spool system allows you to control line release without opening the bail, enhancing your fishing experience. These features make the Mitchell MX1 Reel an excellent choice for both novice and recreational anglers.

What We Like
Smooth line management
Robust and lightweight design
Easy free spool operation
Multi-purpose fishing capabilities

Shakespeare SALT Pre-Spooled Spinning Reel 8000

1548354
Blue
8000
Shakespeare SALT Pre-Spooled Spinning Reel 8000 Cover
Shakespeare SALT Pre-Spooled Spinning Reel, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Surfcasting Fishing, Pre-Spooled with Line - Mackerel, Bass, Pollack, Whiting, Cod, Unisex, Blue, 8000

The Shakespeare SALT Reel is designed for fishing enthusiasts seeking durability and performance. Its body and crank are made from corrosion-resistant graphite, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions. The reel comes pre-spooled with mono line, allowing you to start fishing straight away without the hassle of spooling it yourself. With a multi-disc drag system, you can easily adjust the tension on your line, making it simpler to handle large catches. Additionally, the stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth operation, enhancing your overall fishing experience.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant construction
Pre-spooled with mono line
Adjustable drag system
Smooth operation
#TOP 4

2 x NGT CKR30 Fishing Reels with 8lb Line

NGT
unknown
Black
2 x NGT CKR30 Fishing Reels with 8lb Line Cover
2 x CKR30 Black Fishing Reels Loaded with 6LB Line For Coarse Match Lake River

The NGT CKR30 Fishing Reels are designed for versatility, making them perfect for various fishing methods. Pre-loaded with an 8lb line, these reels can handle everything from float and feeder fishing for small carp to spinning for trout and game fish. The rear drag system allows you to easily adjust the line tension, enhancing your control while fishing. With a generous line capacity, you can fish confidently without worrying about running out of line during your catch.

What We Like
Versatile for different fishing methods
Pre-loaded with 8lb line
Rear drag for easy adjustments
Good line capacity
#TOP 5

Abu Garcia Cardinal X Spinning Reel for Fishing

1548584
Black / Red
1000
Abu Garcia Cardinal X Spinning Reel for Fishing Cover
Abu Garcia Cardinal X Spinning Reel, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Predator Lure Fishing - Trout, Perch, Pike, Salmon, Unisex, Black/Red, 1000

The Abu Garcia Cardinal X Reel is expertly designed for those who enjoy fishing. Its strong, lightweight graphite body ensures durability, making it reliable for various fishing techniques. You will appreciate the very smooth rotation, thanks to the 31 high-quality stainless steel ball bearings, allowing for effortless casting. The high-performance fighting drag system provides consistent drag performance, essential when reeling in that big catch. Additionally, the multi-purpose functionality of this reel makes it suitable for various species, from trout to salmon.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Smooth rotation with ball bearings
Reliable fighting drag system
Versatile for different fishing techniques
#TOP 6

Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Fishing Reel

Mitchell
1446189
Black
5500| 5.1:1
Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Fishing Reel Cover
Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Reel , Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing, Unisex, Black, 5500| 5.1:1

The Mitchell Avocet Reel offers a reliable and smooth fishing experience. Its multi-disk drag system allows you to handle up to 8kg of drag power effortlessly, ensuring a seamless line take while you fight the fish. With 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings, the reel rotates smoothly, providing you with a hassle-free operation. The high-performance design features a lightweight ABS graphite body, making it robust yet easy to manage. Additionally, the free spool system lets you engage the line with minimal resistance, perfect for various fishing techniques.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Lightweight and durable
Versatile for different fish species
Easy free spool engagement
Pre-spooled with quality line

Diwa Spinning Fishing Reel Series 1000-6000

Diwa
Golden
Diwa Spinning Fishing Reel Series 1000-6000 Cover
Diwa Spinning Fishing Reels for Saltwater Freshwater 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 Series Left/Right Interchangeable Trout Spinning Reel Carp Fishing Spool 10 Ball Bearings Light and Smooth

The Diwa Spinning Reel offers smooth and durable performance, thanks to its metal main shaft and 10 ball bearings. This design ensures minimal friction, allowing for long-lasting use during your fishing adventures. Weighing in as a light option, its hollow frame and computer balancing system make it ideal for extended fishing sessions. Additionally, the reel's exquisite build with environmentally friendly materials not only looks great but also enhances its overall function, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned anglers.

What We Like
Ultra-smooth performance
Lightweight for easy handling
Durable and high-quality materials
Portable and convenient design
#TOP 8

Seaknight ARCHER II Ultralight Fishing Reel

2000
Seaknight ARCHER II Ultralight Fishing Reel Cover
Seaknight ARCHER II Spinning Reel Freshwater 4.9:1 5.2:1 8+1BB Ultralight Carp Fishing Reel 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 Max Drag 29LB

The Seaknight ARCHER II Reel is designed with a unique rotor that combines biomechanics with high-quality components, ensuring excellent performance during your fishing trips. Its aluminium CNC hollow spool is both solid and lightweight, making it easy to handle while providing strength. The ceramic line guide is beneficial as it reduces line abrasion, prolonging the life of your fishing lines and enhancing casting smoothness. With 8 stainless ball bearings plus one anti-reverse bearing, this reel guarantees a smooth operation, making your fishing experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Lightweight and strong design
Smooth casting experience
Durable line guide
Excellent performance

Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Drag

BDM-6000
BDM-6000
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Drag Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel,5+1 Shielded Stainless Steel BB-Carbon Fiber Drag Carp Reels, for Saltwater or Freshwater Spinning Reels, Fishing Reels-6000

The Sougayilang Carp Reel is expertly designed for carp fishing, featuring a front and rear drag system that provides reliable control and a drag power of up to 28LB. The smooth ceramic line guide reduces line abrasion, enhancing durability and ensuring a seamless casting experience. With 10+1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings, this reel operates quickly and smoothly, allowing for a fast retrieve. Its corrosion-free construction ensures longevity, making it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

What We Like
Designed for carp fishing
Smooth casting experience
Corrosion-resistant materials
Multiple sizes available

PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Fishing Reel

PURIV5000
Black Silver
5000
PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Pursuit IV Spinning, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Sea - Inshore Fishing, Spin Fishing, Jig, Lure Reel for All-Round Use, Boat, Kayak, Shore, Unisex, Black Silver, 5000

The PENN Pursuit IV Reel is designed for serious anglers seeking reliability and performance. Its powerful sealed HT-100 multi-disk drag system ensures a smooth line take, making it easier for you to battle against big saltwater fish. The ultra-lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite body construction means you can take it on all your saltwater adventures without worry. With four quality sealed stainless steel ball bearings, you will experience incredibly smooth rotation, while the instant anti-reverse bearing guarantees immediate hook-ups, enhancing your fishing experience.

What We Like
Smooth line take
Corrosion-resistant design
Instant hook-ups
Lightweight construction
Quality ball bearings
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a spinning reel good for?

Spinning reels are the best all round type of fishing reel, and are used for many different purposes, ranging from throwing artificial lures, fishing with live or dead bait, fishing with rigs or bobber fishing, and even for ice fishing.

2. Why is a Baitcaster better than a spinning reel?

Spinning reels have fixed spool, while baitcasting have a revolving spool that turns while you cast. This greatly affects the casting distance, and baitcasters can cast further and more precise. Because of the spool turning, they have braking mechanisms, that can be either magnetic, centrifugal, or combined.

Editor's Notes

During our spinning fishing reel research, we found 306 spinning fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 36,503 customer reviews through our big data system to write the spinning fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose spinning fishing reels with an average price of £20.83.

The spinning fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of spinning fishing reels, including Penn, Mitchell, SHAKESPEARE, NGT, Abu Garcia.

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.