Best_Saltwater_Spinning_Reels

Saltwater fishing is always exciting, but it needs the best of gears to get the most out of the activity. While there are other considerations as well, you need to have the best saltwater spinning reel with a strong and smooth drag system to subdue the larger, stronger, faster, and harder fighting ocean fishes.

But picking the best saltwater fishing reel is often challenging as you need to go through technical features such as construction style, line capacity, gear ration and map them to your needs. Further, the availability of so many options in the market also adds to the difficulty in picking the best.

That is why we went through several saltwater spinning reel reviews and listed down 10 Best Saltwater Spinning Reels in 2020 for you. Moreover, we used the information to compile a buying guide so that you can compare your choices.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel

Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Featuring a uniquely-shaped Air Rotor that cuts out the excess weight, Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is the best saltwater spinning reel on our list for its even load distribution that ensures superior strength and top-class balance. 

Design

With an all-metal HardBodyz body, side cover, and rotor for strength and durability, this spinning reel comes with oversized Digigear machine-cut gears that hold firm against hard-charging game fish. With that, the reel comes with an impressive waterproof Carbon ATD drag system and a machined aluminum screw-in handle that makes for maximum leverage. 

Performance

Offering easy to adjust, smooth and wide range drag, good cast distance, and fast retrieval, the performance of this reel is smooth and steady. It features 7 stainless steel bearings that ensure an even and smoother operation. Moreover, it features a dynamic cut Aluminum ABS spool that is braided line ready so you don't need a mono backing to use a braided line without slippage. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Solid and durable construction
  • Smooth reeling action
  • Waterproof drag system
  • Braided Line Ready Spool
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Balance
Material: Synthetic/Aluminum

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Penn Battle II Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel

Penn Battle II Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

With a complete metal-based construction that includes heavy-duty aluminum bail wire, Penn Battle II Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel gets the editors choice spot on our list for its exceptional durability to withstand serious beatings on fishing outings.

Design 

Boasting a complete non-corrosive construction, this reel comes with a full metal body, side plate, rotor, and bail wire to offer a long-lasting stand. With that, the reel also features an HT-100 carbon fiber drag system with five stainless steel ball bearings and an instant anti-revering bearing to offer a smooth and controlled drag. 

Performance

Thanks to its HT-100 drag washers and carbon fiber drag system, this reel offers a bigger drag pressure than many of its competitors. Its design provides smooth performance and a nice casting range while making for a smooth bail operation. Plus, It has a powerful gear ratio of 6.2:1, which is fantastic for fast retrieval. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Durable metal-based construct
  • Carbon fiber drag system
  • Instant anti-reverse bearing
  • Powerful gear ratio
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-around performance
Material: Stainless steel/Aluminium

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3

BEST VALUE

SHIMANO Sedona Fi Saltwater Spinning Reel

SHIMANO Sedona Fi Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Combining cutting-edge Shimano technology and cold-forged HAGANE gears, SHIMANO Sedona Fi Spinning Reel is the most budget-friendly option on our list that provides a strong, durable, and smooth performance at a price that fits the pocket of most fishermen. 

Design

Featuring a G-Free body style that gets the center of the reel closer to the rod, this reel comes with Hagane gearing, which is an all-metal, cold-forged gear. Further, it includes an improved Magnumlite rotor which provides you with lighter startup inertia and rotation. Plus, it includes a double-anodized machine-cut spool for increased line capacity.

Performance

Equipped with a Propulsion Line Management System that provides longer casting distances while preventing backlashes and wind knots from forming, Shimano uses the best technology in this reel to provide you with a long-lasting and smooth retrieval every time. with that, it includes a combination of G free body and hagane gearing to add comfort while ensuring long casts. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • High line capacity
  • G Free body design
  • Ultra-smooth reeling
  • Strong and durable
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Compact body
Material: Synthetic/Aluminium

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4

SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel

SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Offering an enhanced and thicker main shaft with stainless ball bearings, and a strong carbon fiber drag system, SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel grabs its spot on our list for its perfect blend of strength and smoothness to secure large catches with ease. 

Design

The Rapid is built tough to withstand the unforgiving saltwater environment and lasts long. It features an enhanced thicker main shaft, sealed aluminum spool, and rotor structure, stainless steel ball bearings shielded to ensure no contact with saltwater and sand, and an anti-corrosive coating. Further its design includes a thick side to triangular torque for powerful but smooth performance.

Performance

Not only is this a well-made saltwater reel that looks sleek, but it is also a fast, powerful, and smooth performing reel equipped with 10 + 1 ball bearings, and a 6.2:1 gear ratio. With that, the included bail features a tight spring that works well and helps in smooth retrieval. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Lightweight design
  • Strong and smooth drag system
  • Comes with an anti-corrosive coating
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Smooth operation
Material: Aluminium

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5

Piscifun Viper X Saltwater Spinning Reel

Piscifun Viper X Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Featuring a new mould technology on graphite frames and rotor, Piscifun Viper X Saltwater Spinning Reel gets featured on our list for its durable construction that is lighter and stylish while ensures overall strength and excellent performance. 

Design

With double-shielded 10+1 stainless steel bearings to provide incredible smoothness, this spinning reel comes with a reinforced stainless steel main shaft and includes zinc alloy drive gears that are paired with carbon washers. Further, it features a one-way clutch bushing, stainless steel washers, and shielded stainless steel bearings to prevent water and dirt from entering the house. 

Performance

The Piscifun Viper X spinning reel features a lightning-fast 6.2:1 gear ratio that offers high-speed retrieval to help you in battling the strong and fast runs of the biggest fishes. With that, its 10+1 Double Shielded Stainless Steel Bearings offer the smoothest operation with every revolution of the handle. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Lightweight design
  • Dirt free drag support
  • Solid power transition
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best for: Grip
Material: Stainless Steel/Graphite

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6

Penn Clash Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel

Penn Clash Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Featuring a proprietary CNC Gear Technology and HT-100 carbon fiber drag system, Penn Clash Fishing Spinning Reel is another top-rated saltwater fishing reel on our list that comes with a fully coated metal body and side plate to withstand the test of the saltwater fishing environment.

Design

This spinning reel comes with full metal construction, built-in CNC gears, stainless steel ball bearings, Penn’s HT-100 Carbon fiber drag washers, and aluminum bail wire to make for a strong and durable reel without sacrificing the comfort of use. With that, the body of the reel comes fully sealed and watertight, which strengthens its corrosion protection ability. Plus, it includes an 8+1 bearing system.

Performance

With a 5.6: 1 ratio, a hydrophobic line roller bearing, and a clutch armor system, this reel provides supreme protection to critical components in all weather conditions without sacrificing weight. Moreover, its slow oscillation system ensures perfect line lay. All combined, you can expect a smooth and enjoyable reeling experience each time you are up for saltwater fishing.

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Waterproof construction
  • Braid friendly
  • Added CNC gears for superior durability
  • Powerful drag system
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Precise casting
Material: Stainless Steel/Aluminium

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7

Sougayilang Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel

Sougayilang Fishing Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Equipped with the most modern technology for powerful dragging and drawing lines, Sougayilang Saltwater Spinning Reel gets its spot on our list for its uniquely designed line cup that has a lot of texture to increase throwing distance and improves fishing line control.

Design

With a hollow frame, this fishing reel comes with a metal shaft, precision brass gears, an aluminum handle that is interchangeable from right to left, and triple-disc drag washers that are made of carbon. Such a design makes it an extremely lightweight option. Plus, the combination of the main shaft, machine pinion gear, and mesh drive gear makes for a stronghold and perfect drag against fish.

Performance

Backed with a 12+1 ball bearing system, the drag system of this reel is superb and offers a lightning-fast, buttery smooth, and high-speed retrieval to fight the strong, fast running of the biggest fish. Its performance is also supported by comfortable EVA knobs that give you extra leverage and control. Plus, this reel offers an effective cast and reel-back performance. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Offers effective casting
  • Higher controllability on casting
  • Superior dragging system
  • Allows high-speed retrieval
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Ball bearing system
Material: Aluminum/Stainless-steel

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8

Okuma ABF65b Avenger ABF “B” Series Saltwater Spinning Reel

Okuma ABF65b Avenger ABF “B” Series Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Coming with a secondary drag system to support bait fishing, Okuma ABF65b Avenger ABF "B" Series Saltwater Spinning Reel comes with one the best drag management systems on our list that maintains exceptional line control while catching fast-moving fish that sprint towards the horizon.

Design 

This reel incorporates both a graphite body and rotor design which means that you can expect to have a longer lifespan than an aluminum body. The graphite used in its construction is stronger and lighter in comparison with many of its competitors. With that is includes a 2-tone aluminum spool and features high-quality Japanese oiled felt drag washers to support its dragging system. 

Performance

Featuring a secondary drag system in the rear of the reel, the Baitfeeder switch completely disengages the primary drag system. When used, it allows the line to spool out at a certain speed based on how tight you have set the drag and how much pressure the fish is applying to the end of the line. Moreover, it features a 6+1 ball bearing system to make sure that the drag is engaged properly.

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • On/Off auto trip bait feeding system
  • Oiled felt drag system
  • Corrosion-resistant graphite body
  • Rigid, diecast aluminum handle design
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Bait fishing
Material: Graphite/Stainless-steel

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9

Okuma Trio High Speed Saltwater Spinning Reel

Okuma Trio High Speed Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Incorporating both surfaces of the spool to maximize high-end drag pressure, Okuma Trio High Speed Saltwater Spinning Reel gets featured on this list for its strong drag performance that is supported by 10BB + 1RB bearings for superior efficiency and overall smoothness. 

Design

With aluminum and graphite-based hybrid body and rotor design, this spinning reel comes with stainless steel bearings, a spool with graphite arbor, and an aluminum lip. Such a unique crossover design ensures the reels are robust as well as lightweight for ease and comfort of use. With that, the included graphite side plates reduce the overall weight. 

Performance

Featuring a spool construction that houses the drags system in an aluminum drag chamber for added stability, efficiency, and smoothness, this reel comes with a dual force drag system that dissipates heat quickly and creates strong and smooth drag that is sensitive to even small adjustments. Plus, its 10 BB stainless steel bearings and a quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing ensure a smooth performance.

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Hybrid construction
  • Corrosion-resistant components
  • Dual force drags creating system
  • Efficient reverse bearing
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Drag system
Material: Graphite/Stainless-steel/Aluminium

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10

Hunter’s Tail Saltwater Spinning Reel

Hunter’s Tail Saltwater Spinning Reel


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Summary

Equipped with a pressure relief device button to prevent fishing lines from possible break, Hunter's Tail Saltwater Spinning Reel gets the last spot on our list for its effective control on shaft pressure to help in struggling with big fishes.

Design 

This exquisite spinning fishing reel is made of full metal gears and includes an integrated metal rocker arm which is sturdy and durable. The rotating parts of the reel feature a phosphating surface to make it much smoother while improving the anti-corrosion performance of this spinning reel. With that, it includes a super smooth shaft that is supported by a bearing system with an instant stop anti-reverse gear. 

Performance

With a corrosion-resistant spinning reel designed for super smooth casting and long life, this reel comes with a chamfering cup design that increases the smoothness by 25% when casting and reeling in while making for long casting distance. Plus, a gear ratio of 5:2:1 gives the speed that makes your fishing experience a delight. 

  • What Makes This Saltwater Spinning Reel Stand Out
  • Efficient anti-reverse switch
  • Corrosion-resistant components
  • Clean ticking sound
  • Allows long casting
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Control
Material: Blend

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How To Choose The Best Saltwater Spinning Reel – Buying Guide

How_to_choose_the_Best_Saltwater_Spinning_Reel

Construction and Material

One of the key things to consider in a saltwater reel is its construction as saltwater is very corrosive, and damaging to metals and composite materials. This is why make sure that your choice of reel comes with quality construction. Further, it should be crafted using strong, sturdy, and corrosion-resistant materials like heavy-duty aluminum, graphite, titanium, high-grade stainless steel, ceramic, or carbon fiber. Plus, ensure that your choice remains lightweights as that is also important in saltwater fishing.

Also, it is advisable to consider only those options that have quality seals, gaskets, shielded construction, and protective coatings as they block saltwater and sand from entering and damaging the internal parts.

Handle and Anti Reverse Handle

The handle is a very important component of a reel because it’s what you’ll be using to operate it. In general, large, beefy handles and a strong crank are durable and let you quickly reel in the line. So, pick a reel that comes with such construction. 

Additionally, it should allow anti-reverse handling to prevents the handle from going back and prevents the line from being pulled back out once it is reeled in, or avoid line slack. Here a piece of advice is to consider ergonomic non-slip handle that is comfortable and let you keep the grip on the reel when you hook a large one.

Specificity

To choose the best saltwater spincast reel, you also need to decide what type of fishing you are up for. While the bottom fishing calls for a rock strong reel with a very high line capacity, bass fishing needs a reel that can cast with precision and be capable of accomplishing sophisticated maneuvers, Likewise, redfish require a reel that delivers plenty of cranking power to fight them.

Related Review: Spinning Reel For Bass

If you’re not going for a specific fish, or aren’t sure yet, ensure that the reel you get has a high line capacity to handle different types of fish. 

Power

The power of a reel is determined by its gear strength and ratio. To ensure power go with an option that has metal gears and an optimum gear ratio. The gear ratio of a reel refers to how many times the spool revolves with each turn of the crank handle. While a high gear ratio such as 6:1 retrieves line faster and is ideal for quick-moving bait and retrieving smaller fish, a low gear ratio such as 4:1 retrieves more slowly but offers more power and leverage when pulling large fish out of deep water

Resistance

Ball bearings are stainless steel or ceramic balls that help reduce friction in moving parts. For the smoothest action especially if you want to target larger fish, buy a reel that has the highest ball bearing count within your budget. Go for at least five.

Drag

Large, strong, hard fighting, and fast swimming ocean game fish put a lot of strain on gear. The drag system on a reel is designed to bear some of that strain before the line or rod breaks. The best saltwater spinning reels have a strong drag system capable of fighting offshore species including larger game fish like Tuna and Marlin.

Related Review: Tuna Fishing Reels

Here, ensure that you select a reel with the drag capacity to tire, turn, and eventually land the largest fish you are after.

Retrieve

A quality reel stays put for a smooth retrieve. It should lock tight without moving backward, allowing you to set the hook, and it should stack the line fluidly and evenly onto the spool. Other factors that affect retrieval are the gear ratio and bearing count. Here, you should go with high number of bearings as the higher the bearing count, the smoother the retrieval. 

Spool and line capacity

Line is an essential aspect for saltwater fishing. The best choice in this case is to go for a long line that suits the type of fishing you are up for as you don’t want to run out of line amid the action. 

The spool is what stores the fishing line you will be using. The size and configuration of the spool dictate the reel’s capacity and castability. Here you need to consider a durable spool that can is big enough to carry the weight of your line. 

Also, keep in mind that the reel you opt for, should have an efficient bail. 

Braid Ready

With their strength, casting distance, and sensitivity, braided lines offer many benefits to the offshore angler and any reel you consider must accommodate braid easily. Many of the best saltwater spinning reels are designed to accommodate braided line directly and all you need to do is pick the one which is braid ready and include a rubber gasket.

FAQs

Why_Choose_A_Spinning_Reel_Over_A_Conventional_Reel

Q: How To Properly use a Saltwater Spinning Reel?

A: 

Start by pinching the line against the rod handle, just ahead of the reel, with your index finger. Your finger will hold the line and prevent it from coming off the reel when you flip the bail over. With your free hand, grab the wire bail assembly and flip it over. Now the bail is open and the only thing preventing the line from unwinding from the spool is your index finger. You’re now ready to make a cast. With experience, you will perfect your casting technique, increase your casting distance, and improve your casting accuracy.

Q: The Difference Between Saltwater And Freshwater Spinning Reels?

A: 

Yes. Saltwater spinning reels are heavy-duty and tougher than freshwater ones as they are designed to resist corrosion caused by saltwater.

Q: Should I Use a Spinning Reel for Big Fish?

A: 

It depends. If you are using one of the best saltwater spinning reels that are well equipped to reel big fish, you can go for it.

Q: Are expensive spinning reels worth it?

A: 

Yes. They are worth it as they improve your chances of winning over big fishes with complete safety.

Globo Surf Overview

A saltwater angler’s best friend is a reliable fishing reel equipped to handle the large and more aggressive ocean fish and the harsh saltwater environment. The above are some of the best saltwater fishing reels offered by some of the best brands in fishing. They are properly designed and manufactured, have strong and smooth drag systems, high bearing count, line capacity, and they’re built tough to withstand the highly corrosive and ocean environment. 

Now that you’re an informed buyer, you can choose the best saltwater spinning reel for your style of fishing, target species, experience level, and personal preference, and have a great saltwater fishing experience next time.

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Do you love saltwater fishing? What’s your go-to spinning reel? What was your most impressive catch with it? Share your experience in the comment box below