Best Spinning Reels for Bass of 2023 [Top 10 Expert Reviews]

There are many people like you and me who love eating bass. Am I right? It may be saltwater or freshwater. The juicy taste when cooked is amazing.

The bass will taste better if it is caught on your own. Really? Therefore, we have brought you the top 10 best spinning reels for bass fishing in 2023.

Are you ready to explore it?

Keep in mind that these are known and tested to be the best when it comes to bass fishing. The services of spinning reels say that these are helpful when it comes to fighting fish.

Hurry! the smooth working and casting distances can be matched. 

At a Glance:

Best Spinning Reels for Bass of 2023

DesignReviewsRetailer
Best Pick1. Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel
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2. PENN 1338220 Battle II 5000 Spinning Fishing Reel
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Staff Pick3. Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel
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4. PENN 1481262 Spinfisher VI Spinning Saltwater Reel
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Budget Pick5. Abu Garcia Revo IKE Spinning Fishing Reel
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6. Daiwa FGLT3000DC Fuego LT Spinning Reel
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7. Pflueger<strong> </strong>
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8. SHIMANO Sahara FI Spinning Fishing Reel
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9. Quantum EN30SPT.BX3 Zebco/ Quantum, Energy Spinning Reel
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10. KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel
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1. Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel

Best Pick
BrandDaiwa
MaterialSynthetic
ColorBlack/Gold
Handle materialAluminum
Product weight (in Pounds)1 Pound
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • Features an infinite anti reverse system while fighting a big bass fish so the line won’t break in between
  • Also, you can use this reel in saltwater because of its water-resistant body and drag system
  • Moreover, the 5000 size is more than enough to handle a big mouth bass with no hassle

With a reel size of 5000, this spinning reel by Daiwa is perfect for bass fishing. In addition, it is good to use for other medium-sized fish.

The most interesting fact…

This reel will remain intact for years even if you use it in saltwater. Actually, this service is due to its water resistant coating.

Additionally, the braided line ready spool will work best while catching bass or any other similar weighing fishes.

Understand?

While testing we also found out that it can cast really long distances with great smoothness. Moreover, the maximum drag is way more than required which is 22lbs. Do you like it?

This reel can handle a braided line of 8-12 lbs easily so what’s a big deal about a mere bass? However, it’s quite heavy and not manageable after a maximum time of 1 hour.

Pros

  • Great casting
  • Incredibly smooth performance 
  • Braid ready 
  • Max drag 22 lbs 

Cons

  • Weighs 1 pound
  • Small shank

Opinion

As only bass fish is considered, you can go for this one, as it tops the list of top bass spinning reels. Moreover, you can use it in freshwater as well as saltwater with zero issues.
The drag capacity and 7 ball bearings will make our work even easier. However, it’s on the heavier side. Otherwise, it’s the best bass reel for money at a perfect and affordable price.


2. PENN 1338220 Battle II 5000 Spinning Fishing Reel

BrandPenn
MaterialAluminum
ColorBlack/Gold/Smoke
Handle materialAluminum
Product weight (in Pounds)1 Pounds
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • This spinning reel has a full metal body for a long-lasting and powerful performance
  • Also, the HT-100 carbon fibre drag washers offer an incredibly smooth performance than any other type
  • The 5000 reel size is perfect for medium-sized fish and mainly bass fishing.

PENN is a well-known name when it comes to spinning reels. Have you heard it before? They have reels, especially for bass fishing. One such reel is this Battle II with a size 5000.

Hurry!

It is perfect for bass fishing. The whole metal body allows you to use this reel in saltwater without worrying about corrosion or rusting. In addition, you can also call it the best bass-spinning reel.

Do you want to know what I like most?

Despite low price, the build quality is as high as some high-end spinning reels. The instant anti-reverse feature with 5 stainless steel ball bearings makes sure that you never reel backward unintentionally and so your line never gets tangled.

Also, carbon drag washers included in this spinning reel provide a smooth performance without interruption.

Pros

  • Instant anti-reverse feature
  • Durable metal body 
  • 5 ball bearings
  • Cheap

Cons

  • Weighs 1 pound 
  • The bail closes randomly

Opinion

PENN has a good reputation and quality spinning reels. Therefore, you can go for this reel blindly; the smoothness and great casting distances are what the spinning reel is famous for.

Moreover, the full aluminum metal body is highly durable for saltwater fishing. However, like the first one, this unit is also quite heavier.

So, you can consider this option if you are strong enough.

Also, some spinning reel reviews say that the bail closes randomly, leading to line-breaking.


3. Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel

Staff Pick
BrandAbu Garcia
MaterialStainless Steel, Carbon
ColorBlack/Red
Handle materialStainless Steel
Product weight (in Pounds) 0.7 pounds
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • Comes with 10 stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth performance
  • Using a blend of carbon and stainless steel has made this reel only weigh 0.7 pounds
  • Features the instant anti-reverse function for easy bass fishing

After those heavy but best spinning reel, now it’s time for the lightest spinning reel for bass on the list. So, introduce yourself with Revo SX by Abu Garcia with a weight of only 0.7 pounds.

Wait!

Do not think that the weight may affect the performance of the reel. You can handle a good sized bass with its small reel size. Also, it offers an amazingly smooth carbon matrix drag system with a max drag of 24 lbs. 

However,

Unlike other spinning reels you can’t simply change the handle position according to your hand orientation. You have to buy a special left handed Revo SX if you need one. Besides that, it features a dual braking system for an instant anti-reverse.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Casts perfectly
  • 10 ball bearings
  • Instant anti-reverse included

Cons

  • Hand orientation cannot be changed
  • Cannot cast longer distances

Opinion

We recommend this spinning reel for anyone searching for a lightweight yet durable spinning reel for bass fishing. It has a good build, yet it’s not fully metal.

Also, it has been featured in our top 10 best spinning reels of 2023 for its wonderful performance during our testings.

However, the hand orientation cannot be changed according to users preference so left-handed people might have a problem while using this spinning reel.


4. PENN 1481262 Spinfisher VI Spinning Saltwater Reel

BrandPENN Fishing
MaterialAluminum
ColorBlack Gold
Handle materialCarbon Fiber
Product weight (in Pounds)0.7 Pounds
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • The carbon fibre drag washers provide a powerful drag with no compromise on smoothness
  • Moreover, the 6 stainless steel ball bearings also help for a smooth and frictionless performance
  • Also, it can handle a huge bass with its full metal body and no hassle

A good quality spinning reel is always required while bass fishing. Why? They are strong enough to break the line. However, it’s not the case with this spinning reel manufactured by PENN.

Really?

The drag washers lets you  have a smooth and powerful drag with no hassle. Moreover, it has a full metal body except the handle which is quite delicate.

Other than that, the CNC gear technology offers a good durability to the reel’s body. Actually, the sealing makes sure the key components of the reel remain intact.

Let me tell you what does the handle say.

Also, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. However, the handle is delicate so you can’t overload the reel. Otherwise, it may break. Have you got this point?

Pros

  • Smooth working 
  • Auto bail feature 
  • Sealed spool 
  • Carbon fibre drag washers

Cons

  • Expensive 
  • Fragile handle

Opinion

According to the price the features are up to the mark. Like, powerful drag washers, instant anti-reverse features, and auto bail. Moreover, it’s light in weight and good for bass fishing.
However, according to our tests the handle can break if you overload and it’s a bit overpriced.

You can consider other spinning reels at a lower price and the same features. On the other hand, if you still want to get this one, it’s up to you.


5. Abu Garcia Revo IKE Spinning Fishing Reel

Budget Pick
BrandAbu Garcia
MaterialStainless Steel
ColorMulti
Handle materialStainless Steel
Product weight (in Pounds)0.76 Pounds
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • Looks great and features 10 stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth performance
  • The spinning reel size 3000 is perfect for bass fishing in freshwater as well as saltwater
  • Also, the full stainless steel and lightweight body makes it manageable and durable at the same time
  • One of the sturdiest and lightest spinning reel for bass you can get is manufactured by Abu Garcia.

Why so popular?

The reel has a unique purple finish, making it a good gift option for your fisher friend or anyone. In addition, multiple spinning reels for bass reviews also suggest that the quality and looks of this reel are unbeatable.

Yes, I also agree.

Best of all, your hands won’t hurt due to its ultralight weight. Exploring it more, this spinning reel is available in two sizes 20 and 30, respectively. Plus, both of them can handle bass with no hassle.

Also, the 10 stainless steel ball bearings provide satisfactory smoothness while fighting a relatively big fish. You can use this best bass spinning reel while saltwater fishing with no issue at all.

Pros

  • Ultra smooth working 
  • Long casting 
  • Smooth retrieve 
  • Great finishing 

Cons

  • Overpriced 
  • Not for large fishes

Opinion

Do you know anyone who loves bass and would love to catch them alone? If yes, get this incredibly gorgeous and best spinning reel for bass for their next birthday.

The spinning reel has a smooth and unbeatable performance while fishing in saltwater. Moreover, the nice and shiny finish is the cherry on top. However, the price range is high according to the size but it’s worth the price with its powerful working. 


6. Daiwa FGLT3000DC Fuego LT Spinning Reel

BrandDaiwa
MaterialSynthetic
ColorBlack
Handle materialStainless Steel
Product weight (in Pounds)0.75 Pounds
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • The reel is available in sizes ranging from 1000-4000 so you can get one according to your preferences
  • Moreover, the 7 stainless steel ball bearings work nicely and smoothly even during fighting a huge fish
  • Also, the spool is sealed with layers of corrosion resistant coatings to make it long lasting

Lightweight yet durable, this reel will assist you while fighting a big bass in freshwater as well as saltwater. The carbon light material housing gives a painless experience during hours of fishing.

Great! We like it.

The good news is that the handle is made of durable aluminum. Yeah, it won’t break even while overloading it.

Moreover, stainless steel ball bearings give smooth and frictionless performance and they don’t even rust in salt waters. 

Also, the air rotor decreases the overall weight and has a unique design compared to ordinary rotors.

That’s amazing!

We know that Daiwa is popular for its big size spinning reels with amazing capacity. We think that the smaller ones are good too. They can handle a good amount of weight easily and last longer.

Pros

  • Air rotor 
  • Lightweight 
  • 7 ball bearings
  • 22 lbs drag

Cons

  • Bail closes unexpectedly 
  • Overpriced

Opinion

With the size 3000, this spinning reel from Daiwa is perfect for bass and more. The quality is up to the mark, also the material makes it lightweight. But at the same time, it is durable.
The handles are not at all fragile, unlike other reels.

However, features say that it’s worth the price but you can check out other options too. Furthermore, if you have a good budget get this long-lasting and best reel for bass.


7. Pflueger 

BrandPflueger
MaterialAluminum
ColorRed, Multicolor
Handle materialStainless Steel
Product weight (in Ounces)7 Ounces
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • It has a fully corrosion resistant body so that you can use it in saltwater
  • Weighing only seven ounces this reel is perfect for an all day long bass fishing trip
  • Features aluminum gears and main shaft for a lightweight and long-lasting design

Pflueger is known for manufacturing cheap yet durable spinning reels. One such example is Pflueger, one very popular amongst anglers, for bass fishing and other medium sized fishes.

So, you can easily use the Pflueger during offshore fishing trips with its durable aluminum body. Moreover, the high speed gear ratio will make your task even easier and faster. 

You look furious to know more.

Also, it’s a small reel with the size 3000 which will work best during freshwater fishing as well as saltwater fishing. Moreover, the shaft and gears are made from high quality aluminum.

Therefore, it’s also light in weight and the perfect choice for a long fishing adventure.

Last but not least,

The drag system is sealed with a coating for making it water resistant and long lasting. What do you say about this reel?

Pros

  • Ultralight spinning reel
  • Perfect for beginners 
  • Smooth drag system
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Fragile handle

Opinion

In our opinion, it’s a good deal as compared to other reels with a high price and same features. You can enjoy fishing and especially bass fishing as it’s the best bass reel for money.
The quality of the material is unmatchable and also lightweight.

However, the handle is delicate so you can’t overload the reel intentionally or unintentionally. Its reviews also suggest that the 3000 size is enough for bass fishing in saltwater.


8. SHIMANO Sahara FI Spinning Fishing Reel

BrandSHIMANO
MaterialAluminum
ColorGold, Black
Handle materialAluminum
Product weight (in Pounds)0.8 Pounds
Hand OrientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • With a super smooth adjustable drag system, it has a max drag of over 24 lbs which is way more than required for bass fishing 
  • Moreover, the gear ratio of 6.2:1 is the best and provides maximum retrieve while fishing
  • The aluminum spool construction with a light weight body offers great comfort to anglers

Popular as one of the best Shimano spinning reels for bass, the Sahara FI is the one you can have if you love competing in bass fishing tournaments. Moreover, the lightweight design will help you in handling the fishing rod for hours.

What impressed us most?

The smooth and quick retrieve works its best while reeling. Also, the full aluminum design makes the reel lightweight yet durable and corrosion resistant too. 

The 4000 spinning reel size is more than enough for a great bass fishing trip.

That’s fantastic.

Unlike many other reel brands, Shimano offers great working and top bass fishing reels at a comparatively lower price range. Therefore, it’s an excellent deal to go if you are an experienced angler or a beginner.

Pros

  • Great for a bass fishing tournament 
  • Manual bail
  • Quick retrieve 
  • Weighs only 0.8 pounds

Cons

  • Does Not include auto bail 
  • Only 5 ball bearings 

Opinion

A good working and best bass reel for money is this Sahara FI which will make your fishing experience memorable. You can enjoy not only bass fishing but also mahi-mahi and red snapper.
The weight is perfect and comfortable to handle.

However, it doesn’t include an auto bail feature, it may be a pro or a con for some people. Also, the number of ball bearings is only 5 but it’s smooth enough for bass fishing.


9. Quantum EN30SPT.BX3 Zebco/ Quantum, Energy Spinning Reel

BrandZebco / Quantum
MaterialBlend
ColorSilver
Handle materialMetal
Product weight (in Ounces) 9 oz
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • As promised by the brand itself the reel can survive in any water conditions because of its layers of coatings which make it water resistant
  • Similarly, the 9 ball bearings and a gear ratio of 5.2:1 lets you experience the incredibly smooth performance
  • Moreover, you can cast longer distances compared to other spinning reels.

This quantum spinning reel has everything a professional angler would really appreciate. You look curious about it. Actually, the number of ball bearings and the powerful disc drag system offers a max drag of 18 lbs and more than enough for bass fishing.

Moreover,

The weight of the reel is easy to handle even if you are a beginner. Also, the reel features a line management system that will make sure the line won’t get tangled or break during operation. 

You know what?

If you pair the spinning reel with a longer fishing rod, it will easily handle and balance the reel. Congratulations! You are free to try different lengths. What makes it even more special is its great casting distances.

Plus, while testing we also found that it can cast longer distances than other reels.

Pros

  • Anti-reverse feature included 
  • Max drag of 18 pounds 
  • Corrosion resistant coatings 
  • The multi disc drag system

Cons

  • The gear ratio is 5.2:1 
  • Material quality is not good

Opinion

Your next bass fishing trip will get even more exciting with this best bass spinning reel which includes a number of features to make it stand out. You can use it even during boat fishing as the corrosion-resistant coatings will make sure the reel won’t rust or stop working.

However, the aluminum quality is not up to the mark and not as promised by the brand so do consider all these factors if you want to get this spinning reel. 


10. KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel

BrandKastKing
MaterialMetal
ColorBlack
Handle materialAluminum
Product weight (in Ounces)10 oz
Hand orientationAmbidextrous

Why We Love It

  • The size 4000 is perfect for bass fishing as well as other medium-sized fishes
  • Moreover, the rigid aluminum frame provides great durability and strength to the reel
  • Additionally, the 8 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings provide an incredibly smooth performance

You will require a good quality reel construction and a drag for bass fishing. You will get that in this KastKing spinning reel with an amazing performance even in saltwater to get that big-mouth bass.

This Megatron comes with a unique rotor design, making the construction lightweight and easy to handle.

This feature has surprised us.

Moreover, the powerful carbon drag system gives a smooth and maximum drag of 30 lbs. Yes, it is enough for bass fishing. Also, good gear quality with the gears made from zinc and solid brass is provided for a smooth yet strong performance.

Also, it’s much less expensive than many spinning reels on the list.

Pros

  • Excellent drag system
  • Perfectly priced
  • Aluminum handle
  • 8 ball bearings

Cons

  • Less durable
  • Delicate bail 

Opinion

It’s a great option if you have a tight budget and still require a 4000-size reel for saltwater. Moreover, the build quality is great and offers smooth performance for years.

Many bass fishing reel reviews also suggest its drag system is excellent and can deliver up to 30 lbs of max drag. Therefore, consider this option if you want the best bass-spinning reel.


Buying Guide: How to Choose

How to Choose the Best Spinning Reels for Bass

Are you making a plan to go out fishing? Do you have the right equipment required for your fishing trip?

If not, don’t worry.

We are here to help you with some information regarding spinning reels, especially for bass fishing. So you choose the right one for your fishing adventure and perform well.

Here we have discussed some factors you should consider while buying a spinning reel for bass 

Saltwater or freshwater 

Depending on your fishing preferences the reel quality varies. If you want to target those big saltwater bass, you should get a good quality spinning reel with a water-resistant and corrosion-resistant coating.

In addition, the size should be greater than freshwater. On the other hand, if you are thinking of freshwater fishing, you can go for cheaper reels with good sizes. 

Size of the spinning reel 

The size of the spinning reel is one of the main factors to look for while getting a bass fishing reel. Do you agree? The spinning reel should have a size between 1000-5000 for better results. Anything less or over that is not a good choice for bass fishing.

So, you can check out our article on spinning reel sizes. 

Line capacity

The line capacity and reel size go hand in hand as the reel size increases the line capacity also enhances. You will require a line capacity of 6-12 lbs monofilament line and a 10-30 lbs braided line for bass fishing. 

Maximum drag 

A drag helps in making the reel’s performance smoother. Therefore, it is much needed while fishing for bass. Moreover, it prevents the line from breaking too. You will require a max drag of 8-11 lbs for bass fishing. However, if you have more than that it’s well and good.

So, these are the features you should look for while buying a reel for bass fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best reel for bass fishing?

We would recommend you to go for the KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel- the best spinning reel for bass as it has a lower price range, medium reel size, offers a smooth drag, and covers a great casting distance.

What size spinning reel for bass? 

Any size of spinning reel between 1000-5000 is perfect for bass fishing. For saltwater big mouth bass you will require a big reel size of 3000. However, for a small mouth bass of freshwater, a 2000 size reel is enough. 

What color fishing line is best for bass?

As studies have proved that bass can see the colorful lines and won’t get lured. You should use a line with dark blue and dark green shades that camouflage with the watercolor perfectly. 

Is a spinning reel good for bass fishing? 

Definitely, yes, that’s why we wrote this article right? However, you can use baitcasting reels for bass fishing but the professionals also go for spinning reels when it comes to bass fishing. You can check out Baitcasting reels VS spinning reels for a detailed comparison.

Conclusion

You are all set for your next fishing trip, especially for targeting bass. After much effort, we have listed these top 10 best spinning reels for bass and written their review. So we hope you have loved it and appreciate us for choosing one of these best reels for bass.


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