10 Best Spinning Reels Under $50 In 2023

The Okuma Ceymar C-30 is a compact, lightweight freshwater spinning reel under $50 suitable for finesse techniques using 6- to 8-pound line and targeting small to medium species such a bass, pike, walleye and carp. Though small, it is solidly built and equipped with advanced performance features. The body has a lightweight blade design that makes it comfortable to fish with and the custom ambidextrous EVA handle knob is very comfortable to grip and turn.

It features a machined aluminum spool with an oversized line roller that holds a good amount of small diameter monofilament and braided fishing lines (145yd-8lb) and casts quite a long way. A fluid 8-bearing system, powerful, oiled multi-disc felt drag system, precision machine cut brass pinion gear, a computer balanced rotor system and heavy-duty aluminum bail wire work together to deliver a smooth performance.

The Shimano Sienna is an exceptional entry level spinning reel that offers incredible bang for the buck at this price range. It is affordable without skimping on quality and you can rest assured it will perform flawlessly for years to come. It is equipped with superior features and technologies that ensure successful and enjoyable fishing experiences. Available in sizes ranging from 1000 to 4000, there is a size for you whether you practice freshwater or inshore fishing.

The body is designed in such a way that the oscillation gear is closer to the rod, which creates a well-balanced fishing outfit. It features Shimano's Propulsion Line Management System that enables long distance casting while minimizing frustrating line issues such as backlashes and wind knots. Super Stopper II instant anti-reverse technology ensures no back play while Dyna-Balance rotor system and a smooth drag system deliver a super smooth reeling experience.

Equipped with an oil felt drag system that delivers consistent drag pressure, double anodized aluminum spool and seven ball bearings, the Pflueger Trion offers a casting and reeling experience that is as smooth as its attractive finishing. You can turn the instant anti-reverse bearing on and off. With lightweight graphite and aluminum construction, it feels good to fish with even on long fishing excursions.

It has a threaded main gear design that ensures there is no play in the aluminum handle, which offers great control and has a soft touch knob that is easy on the palm. The reel is well constructed to last and can withstand saltwater fishing as the graphite body and stainless steel ball bearings are corrosion resistant.

Mitchell offers high-quality spinning reels built with precision to offer a lifetime of flawless fishing performance and the Mitchell 300 is no exception. An innovative Bail Halo design strengthens the rotor and provides great line management properties resulting in even line lay and smooth castings. With eight ball bearings with instant anti-reverse and a multi-disk drag system that delivers consistent drag pressure, this is a super smooth reel whether it is handling small or larger fish species.

The body is plastic, but a top-notch quality polymer that is extremely strong and of course rustproof and lightweight and a pleasure to fish with all day. The other components are solid quality, efficient and reliable. Overall, the Mitchell 300 is a reel that is going to serve you for a long time and give you a fantastic experience every time you take it out on the water.

A carbon composite frame and side plate, 8 corrosion resistant bearings and carbon fiber drag system make the Cadence CS4 spinning reel super smooth, lightweight, strong and durable. It feels great in the hand and the ergonomic EVA handle provides an amazing grip.

The machined aluminum spool has a nice taper and this reel casts a good distance and has really smooth cast and retrieve actions. It has a higher gear ratio for speedy retrievals. With its powerful and smooth drag system, it doesn't have any issues bringing in bigger fish. Cadence also gives you the opportunity to introduce the joy of fishing to a young person, as they give a fishing combo to a disadvantaged youth with every purchase.

The new Piscifun Viper ll is an outstanding spinning reel at this price point. It is designed to offer an exhilarating tournament level experience. The high gear ratio means retrievals are incredibly fast and the 3-disc carbon fiber drag system and whopping 10+1 bearings deliver buttery smooth action when casting and retrieving. With a high strength graphite body, rotor and side cover, reinforced stainless steel main shaft, CNC machined spool and zinc alloy drive gear, this reel feels incredibly strong. The hollow frame and rotor design give it a lightweight feel and stylish look. The high-density EVA knob offers a very good anti-slip grip even with wet hands.

The Viper II is one of the best saltwater spinning reels under $50. The graphite body is corrosion resistant and the sealed drag knob, double shielded stainless steel bearings and one way clutch bushing and plate prevent water and particles from ruining the internal components. The spool is braid ready. You can spool it with braided fishing line without backing and line will stay in place without slipping. It is equipped with a powerful and consistent drag system. You can have confidence that even if you hook a trophy catch, this reel can handle it.

The Shakespeare Crusader is the best spinning reel under 50 if you want a basic, cheap spinning reel but one of good quality. It is a great reel for young anglers or as a backup. Though it retails for less than 20 bucks, the Crusader has great action out on the water. Equipped with a cold-forged aluminum spool, nice multi-disc drag system, a ball bearing and anti-reverse with on/off switch, it casts and reels smoothly and performs well as a catfish or bass fishing reel under 50, as it can handle larger fish. 

Shakespeare is a leading go-to brand for quality, affordable fishing tackle, and this reel is an incredible deal. The construction quality and high-end components are amazing at this price. The spool is a cold forged aluminum, the gears metal, and the body a high-strength plastic. The result is a reel that catches fish well, can last for years with good care and looks amazing.