Fishing has long been transformed from a way of getting food into an exciting hobby. In our country, millions of people go fishing for their own pleasure. However, without gear, it will not be possible to catch fish. Tourist shops are just chock-full of fishing supplies — spinning rods, lures, bait and, of course, reels.
The range of the latter is in the thousands. Nevertheless, choosing the most suitable one, especially if you are just starting to learn the basics of fishing skills, is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. In order to make this problem a little easier for our readers, we decided to rank the best fishing reels of the year. Here we will consider the most popular models among experienced anglers, as well as give a number of useful tips on choosing and buying such a device. This is where our review will begin.
How to choose the right fishing reel?
These devices are very different from each other in their design features. Naturally, this also affects the cost of products. Inertial coils are considered the simplest. They can be used when fishing both from a boat and from the shore. Such devices are an elementary freely rotating reel with a friction brake installed on it. It fixes the reel in a fixed position and does not allow the fishing line to unwind further. A more advanced modification is an inertial multiplier coil. Mechanisms have been added to its design that provide braking of the spool and regulate the gear ratio. There is also a line counter. Such models are optimally suited for long-distance casts of light weight baits. In general, inertial reels are considered one of the most powerful, so with their help it will be possible to catch even very large fish.
Spinning reels are more popular due to their versatility and reliability. Their main advantage is that when casting, the line jumps off the reel and does not rotate the spool, so line tangling does not occur. You can reel in the line at different speeds, which is very effective when trolling. Another distinctive feature is the ability to cast even the lightest baits over a considerable distance. A friction brake is installed here, which prevents the line from breaking.
When choosing a product, be sure to pay attention to the number of bearings in the product design. They can be from one to twenty. It is best in this regard to give preference to models with 4-7 bearings. This will ensure a smooth and soft course of the fishing line. Another determining factor is the gear ratio, which is the ratio of one turn of the handle to the number of turns of the mechanism responsible for laying the line. According to this parameter, all products are divided into slow (1:3-1:4), high-speed (1:5-1:6) and universal (1:4.6-1:5.2).
The friction brake does not completely stop the reel, but allows it to spin when the fish makes strong jerks. This structural element will not allow the prey to leave along with the bait and a piece of fishing line. Many modern models are equipped with additional details — a system for long casting, zero reverse, a system that dampens vibrations, and so on.
When we chose models to include in our today’s review of the best fishing reels, we were mainly guided by the considered parameters. However, other points were also taken into account: in particular, the value for money, as well as user reviews, including very experienced fishermen. We tried to include not the most expensive models in the review, so that all our readers can choose the most suitable and comfortable products for themselves.
Budget segment
4. Daiwa Ninja 2000A
A very interesting design, characterized by an attractive appearance. The design functions on the basis of four reliable bearings that provide a smooth ride, without jerking and jamming. The original hollow Air Rotor is installed here, which is characterized by a small mass, therefore, it will not weigh down either the reel itself or the rod. A similar rotor is able to withstand significant loads that can occur in the process of playing large or even trophy fish, and it also reduces vibration. The line stacker shackle closes and opens effortlessly and is additionally equipped with a durable return spring. To minimize line twist, the device is equipped with a Twist Buster anti-twist roller coated with a layer of titanium.
This detail protects the model from the formation of the so-called «beard», which often happens when casting a fishing line for a considerable distance. Includes Infinite Anti Reverse. Comes with a spare spool. The mass of the device is only 240 grams. The handle is fixed with a special clamping screw, the body of the device is made of durable graphite. You can use the tool even with very thin fishing line. The reel is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Advantages:
- Acceptable cost;
- Insignificant weight;
- Attractive appearance;
- An additional spool is included in the kit;
- It functions smoothly and absolutely silently, which is very important while fishing.
Flaws:
- Weak clamping screw — periodically it has to be tightened.
Daiwa Ninja 2000A
3. Okuma Magda MA-30DLXT
The presented model is a classic version of a multiplier spinning reel, which is optimally suited for fishing in fresh or slightly salty water, for example, in the mouths of rivers flowing into the sea. The design is equipped with a lightweight body made of graphite. It well resists various kinds of physical influences, as well as the occurrence of corrosion processes. Additional strength of this design is given by special side inserts made of high-quality stainless steel. Such structural elements help to cope with serious loads during the forceful playing of prey.
The design has a special built-in counter that allows you to know exactly how much line was released. In combination with a depth gauge or echo sounder, it will help in hunting for fish species that live in the bottom layers of the reservoir. The bearings are very reliable — they are made of stainless steel, the brake system is multi-disc, self-lubricating type. The reel also has a ratchet brake, which will instantly inform the angler about a bite. Products are available in two versions — for right-handers and left-handers. Among other things, there is a special system that provides the most uniform winding of fishing line on the spool.
Advantages:
- Attractive appearance;
- Reliable moving parts;
- The presence of a special counter indicating the amount of reeled fishing line;
- Reinforced body;
- Can be used in both fresh and brackish water;
- Acceptable cost of the unit.
Flaws:
- It is not very easy to find a left-handed modification for sale.
Okuma Magda MA-30DLXT
2. SHIMANO Caius A (CIS151A)
Despite the fact that the developers themselves rank this product as an entry level (in other words, it is best for beginner anglers), many experienced people also prefer it. This is related to a number of things. First of all, the reel has an affordable price and excellent performance. The body is made of a special patented Shimano XT-7 material, the spool is made of aluminum and practically does not wear out during use. Casting control is adjustable here — the latest SVS Brake System is responsible for this. In addition to everything else, the reel has a Shimano line winding system to ensure trouble-free fishing.
The coil is made both under the left, and under the right hand. It belongs to the class of high-speed ones, as the ratio of handle turnover to the number of spool revolutions is 1:6.3, which is one of the highest rates in our entire review. Rotating mechanisms operate on the basis of four bearings. For one turn of the handle winds about 65 cm of fishing line. Up to 150 m of 0.25 mm thick fishing line can be wound on the spool. With all this, the product turned out to be quite light — its weight is only 205 grams.
Advantages:
- High line winding speed;
- The coil performs excellently even in the most difficult conditions;
- You can wind a decent amount of fishing line;
- Excellent for both beginners and experienced anglers;
- Operates on the basis of four self-lubricating bearings;
- It is made for both left-handed and right-handed people.
Flaws:
- There is no line release counter — it is difficult to calculate the depth to which the bait plunged.
SHIMANO Caius A (CIS151A)
1. Daiwa Exceler 100H
The leader of this part of the section was a sports model of a low-profile type. Its gear ratio is 1:6.3, for 1 turn of the handle it will wind about 70 cm. The maximum pulling force of this product is 4 kg. The move is smooth. This effect was achieved due to the presence of one needle and eight ball bearings at once. The design is characterized by the presence of a metal dual coil, which has soft scrolling handles. The friction mechanism is quite accurate due to the installed triple brake system. It is represented by the following mechanisms: an axial brake using Six Point technology, an asterisk-type ratchet brake (it is located in close proximity to the handle), and there is also a Magforce Z magnetic brake.
The controls of the latter are on the opposite side of the handle. It is designed specifically to prevent the formation of a «beard». The design is placed in a case made of solid metal, it is made of an aluminum alloy of increased strength. There are plastic pads on the sides, one of them contains a magnetic brake. The spool has a certain perforation, which makes it possible to lighten the mass of products and reduce inertia when casting the bait. About 250 m of fishing line with a diameter of 0.12 mm can be wound on it.
Advantages:
- Smooth running;
- High gear ratio;
- Ability to cast long distances
- Rugged housing;
- The presence of several brake mechanisms.
Flaws:
- When using braided line, skew may occur.
Daiwa Exceler 100H
Spinning coils
3. MIKADO Black Stone 2006 FD
The flagship products of the famous company of the same name first appeared on store shelves back in 2015. The device from the developers turned out to be quite compact, stylish and very convenient in terms of use, which allows it to still be widely popular among fishing enthusiasts. The front drag of this model is equipped with a relatively long travel clamp screw, which allows the user to fine-tune the braking force, which is very important when using monofilament or thin braided line. The spool is perfectly smooth, made of high quality aluminum alloy. Inside is a stainless steel ball bearing, which completely eliminates the effect of sticking. In addition, thanks to it, the oscillatory movements of the spool are reduced if the regulator is loosely tightened. The reel comes with a spare spool.
The rotor is perfectly balanced, with its help it is possible to achieve a very smooth running of absolutely all moving elements. The coil works on the basis of five ball bearings, together with them a support roller is installed, which in the design is responsible for the instant stop of the reverse motion. The line lies on the spool perfectly evenly, regardless of its thickness. The line layer is a hollow tube that does not create unnecessary vibrations and does not give the slightest chance of looping or “bearding”.
Advantages:
- Lightweight graphite body with stiffeners;
- Ability to work with fishing lines of different types and thicknesses;
- It showed itself excellently when catching trophy specimens;
- Works effectively regardless of conditions;
- The presence of a whole system of ball and roller bearings.
Flaws:
- Over time, slight backlashes may form on the rotary elements.
MIKADO Black Stone 2006 FD
2. DAIWA Ballistic LT 2500D XH
Lightweight yet very strong, the reel is manufactured using the latest LT Light&Tough technology. If we compare these products with products belonging to other generations, the design turned out to be less overall, but at the same time its drive power became much higher. The body is made from original ZAION material, which is essentially nothing more than the highest density carbon fiber. Thanks to him, it is possible to provide excellent protection for all internal mechanisms of the device, as well as to make the coil itself much lighter. The handle is made of aluminum alloys, processed by milling, so when playing fish, fingers and palms will not slip. The original ATD braking system is used here. All locking mechanisms are activated instantly and do not require serious physical effort.
The handle is securely fixed in the drive wheel, which greatly reduces the likelihood of backlash even after several years of active use of the unit. Among other things, the coil is manufactured using Magsealed technology, which helps to create reliable protection of mechanisms from water, dust and other contaminants that can significantly reduce the life of the product. The gears are treated with Tough Digigear technology — this gives them the most suitable power and extends their life.
Advantages:
- The case reliably protects the mechanisms from water and dirt;
- Can be used with absolutely any fishing line;
- Long period of operation;
- Excellent workmanship and assembly;
- Relatively affordable price.
Flaws:
- There is no modification for left-handers.
DAIWA Ballistic LT 2500D XH
1. Shimano Biomaster FB 1000
Universal products that have several modifications at once, so the fisherman will be able to choose the optimal model for both heavy spinning and ultralight. The fishing line here is wound crosswise, which eliminates even the slightest possibility of the formation of a «beard». The ergonomics of the reel are carefully thought out. The bearing system provides not only a very smooth, but a truly velvet ride and a fairly long service life. There are even special modifications designed specifically for the thinnest lines and braided laces. The coil is made using X-Ship technology. It consists in the latest system of the main transmission of the enlarged wheel installed here, changing the position of the axles. The developers added another ball bearing to the rear gear support. Together, these details allow the device to withstand significant loads, including strong jerks of large fish.
Even the appearance of the model makes a pretty strong impression, performance also does not fail. The coil is equipped with a special handle, which is folded in case of need. It connects directly to the main gear, so when it turns, there is practically no friction. Despite the apparent massiveness, the product turned out to be quite light — its weight is only 265 g. There are no plastic elements in the design, all parts are made on the basis of aluminum alloys.
Advantages:
- The fishing line is laid using a special technology that eliminates its entanglement;
- Easy move, instant stop when needed;
- Many different kinds of modifications;
- Attractive and very stylish appearance.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Shimano Biomaster FB 1000
Premium multiplier reels
3. DAIWA Lexa 100HL
This product is characterized by increased durability and is more suitable for professional anglers or for athletes whose goal is large predatory fish. The coil is placed in an aluminum case. Compared to the previous model, it has acquired a completely new shape, has become more compact and more ergonomic, although it can now fit more line volume. The reel has an original Daiwa Magforce clutch that prevents line tangling, and it also provides increased comfort of using this device. From above, the body turned out to be more open, so the owner will be able to fully control the casting of the fishing line with the help of his thumb. The line winding here is reinforced — this was achieved thanks to the installation of an enlarged 110 mm Swept handle. The turned mechanism provides a high level of reliability and sensitivity of the device.
The power of the brake system can reach 10 kg, it includes a special Dual Stopper mechanism, which is able to stop even fairly large fish. According to users, this reel is ideal for pike or salmon fishing. There is also a mechanical anti-reverse, which does not allow the line to unwind even with strong jerks. Works on the basis of seven ball bearings, excellent wear resistance, they do not need regular lubrication even with constant use.
Advantages:
- Ideal for catching large predatory fish;
- The casting process is completely under the control of the angler;
- The mass does not make the overall design of the gear much heavier.
Flaws:
DAIWA Lexa 100HL
2. Abu Garcia Revo MGX LP
Initially, the products were developed exclusively for the Japanese market, but very quickly spread throughout the world. Despite the rather high cost of the device, it is found quite often among experienced and seasoned fishermen. It is very light, but at the same time powerful and ergonomic model. The transmission here is simply ultra-fast — no manufacturer of similar units has yet been able to achieve such an effect. The case is made of reliable carbon fiber, which can not only withstand heavy loads, but also retain its original appearance throughout its entire service life. The handle has a special bend that allows the angler to fully control the tackle even if the prey makes sudden strong jerks.
The design of the coil is able to satisfy even the most demanding user. The key priorities of the device are strength, durability and reliability. The frame is made of magnesium alloy, the transmission pair is made of aircraft-grade aluminum — these design solutions have reduced the weight of the unit to 154 grams. The brake in the device is pendulum, centrifugal type IVCB-IV, it has 28 adjustment levels, due to which you can quickly and easily provide the required braking resistance. In order to smoothly adjust, you do not have to open the coil — an external adjusting bolt is used for this. The product is also equipped with nine sealed steel ball bearings, which provide a quiet and smooth movement of the mechanism, as well as long-distance casting.
Advantages:
- Excellent production quality;
- Insignificant mass of the unit;
- Ergonomic shape;
- The duration of the period of operation;
- The ability to quickly fine-tune.
Flaws:
- Quite high cost of the product.
Abu Garcia Revo MGX LP
1. SHIMANO CURADO 201K
The leading model has long been a success both among amateurs and professionals, including athletes. This product is versatile, because even beginners will be able to appreciate all its benefits even after a single use. The reel of the new series has absorbed all the positive aspects of the previous versions, however, it has been significantly modified, and all key functions have been improved. In the end, we got a very compact and lightweight model, which does not make the spinning heavier at all, and even more so does not outweigh it. In terms of power, the device greatly surpasses its predecessors — this was achieved largely due to the reinforced drive.
The reel has a very capacious Magnumlite spool, which is made of a special aviation alloy. This made it possible to reduce its weight, as well as to ensure excellent flight performance even in the case when a strong headwind is blowing. The spool braking system is centrifugal VBS-infinite format. Its adjustment has become more convenient compared to previous models. In addition, the technology of an instant stop is used here, a special ultra-sensitive bite indicator is installed, which allows you to respond to prey in a timely manner. The operation of the entire system is based on 5 AR-B ball bearings, which are complemented by one roller and another sprocket. They allow you to smoothly lay the cord or fishing line, make working with the reel very pleasant and comfortable.
Advantages:
- High sensitivity of the coil;
- Insignificant weight of the product;
- High traction;
- Attractive design;
- Advanced centrifugal brake;
- You can find a coil for right-handers or left-handers.
Flaws:
- Doesn’t work well with heavy baits.
SHIMANO CURADO 201K
In conclusion, a useful video
This concludes our review of the best fishing reels. Before we say goodbye, I would like to express the hope that in our article we have helped you understand the difficult issue of choosing the most suitable reel for your fishing style. If incomprehensible moments still remain, feel free to ask about them in the comments — we will be happy to explain everything to you.