Bass fishing is an exciting hobby and pastime. However, without the best fishing reels for bass, this interesting hobby can be hampered. The fishing reel is one of the most important fishing tools.
A fishing reel gives you a significant advantage in fishing for bass. You might tie a string to the end of a long stick and catch fish with earthworms on a hook, but you’ll be extremely limited. The fishing reel gives you the ability to hold many yards of line in a compact space and then be able to launch a lure a greater distance and make that lure come alive with retrieves and reeling.
Bass fishing is very popular because bass can be found almost everywhere. In addition, they’re a common fish in many areas, so you don’t need to travel to exotic locations to seek them out.
The aggressive nature of bass makes them more popular to catch. Bass are so aggressive that they will go after more types of bait than many other fish. Moreover, people love fishing for large fish, and pulling a large bass out of the water is undeniably satisfying.
Catching bass is unique because you can a big fish for bass without spending much money at all. This is why you need the perfect bass fishing reel so that you can ace the bass fishing game!
There are various options available in the market for bass fishing reels. As a result, it might be quite challenging for you to choose one. This is why we have come up with this article to help you! A perfect and complete buying guide is also written just for you to have a clear idea about which factors to consider while buying fishing reels for bass. Don’t waste any more time and jump onto the article to have the most memorable bass fishing experience ever!
8 Best Fishing Reels for Bass Reviewed: Our Top Picks
We’ve accumulated 7 bass fishing reels in this article with our extensive market research and customer review.
Abu Garcia Revo SX Best Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel for Bass
The perfect precision engineered from the ground up to deliver power and performance, the fourth generation of Abu Garcia Revo SX provides the most powerful, durable, and high-performance SX yet. In addition, the improved DuraClutch design and an upgraded Infini brake system result in smooth engagement and smooth casting performance.
The Abu Garcia Revo SX has 9 stainless steel ball bearings with one roller bearing allowing for an ultra-smooth castability and smooth retrieve. In addition, its C6 carbon side plates provide significant weight reduction without sacrificing strength and durability. Abu Garcia Revo SX also has the dura gear brass gear for extended gear life and an instant anti-reverse feature.
The Abu Garcia Revo SX comes equipped with a Power Stack Carbon Matrix Drag System, which allows for a consistent and smooth pressure across the entire drag range along with a max drag of up to 24 pounds. Moreover, the same reel’s thicker carbon washer also extends drag durability and performance.
This premium baitcasting reel also features the X2-Craftic alloy frame that provides a strong and lightweight frame, a solid base for high drag pressures, and increased corrosion resistance. In addition, it also features the extended 90-millimeter handle with oversized PVC, which gives extra leverage and lets you fish much more comfortably.
The Infini brake system in this bass fishing reel combines a centrifugal brake that controls the first half and a magnetic brake that controls the second half of the case. This dual magnetic braking system provides a wide range of adjustments to suit any style of bait.
The Abu Garcia Revo SX features the Infini II Spool design to handle extreme loads and deliver improved castability.
Pros
- Strong & Lightweight
- DuraClutch design
- C6 carbon side plates
- Upgraded Infini brake system
- Ultra-smooth castability and a smooth retrieve
- Significant weight reduction
- Duragear brass gear for extended gear life
- Instant anti-reverse feature
- Thicker carbon washer
- X2-Craftic alloy frame
- Extended 90-millimeter handle with oversized PVC knobs
- Infini brake system
- Infini II Spool design
- Dual braking system
Cons
- Uneven line distribution
Final Verdict
Abu Garcia Revo RX might be your preferred choice if you’re looking for a finesse reel that is lightweight offers smooth performance, and has a fantastic braking system and castability! In addition, this might be the finest casting reel for fishing bass.
Daiwa Bg Best Aluminum Spinning Fishing Reel for Bass
The next generation of ever-popular Daiwa bg spinning reel series just got leaner and meaner with this one. This spinning reel series ranges from ultralight freshwater actions to heavy big game saltwater models.
The Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel has black anodized machined aluminum housing (“Hard Bodyz” Body & Side Cover) and oversized digigear (Digigear System). It also has a solid screw-in handle, air rotor, and dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool.
Featuring an all-aluminum body, MAGSEAL tech main shaft, a stainless steel AIRBAIL, this spinning reel has a powerful drag and fast retrieve ideal for tough inshore fishing situations.
Daiwa bg has incorporated a lot of technology and durability into the spinning reel, making it such a good value. The dynamic cut ABS spool, the waterproof adjustable drag system, Carbon ATD, Braided Line Ready Spool, and more make this such a silky smooth and tough reel for any freshwater or saltwater angler alike.
The larger roller and pick-up on bail help alleviate line twists and looping with the Daiwa bg. In addition, the bail opens easily and locks in solid on hooksets, which is excellent for deep water fishing. The spinning reel is comfortable and sturdy as well.
Pros
- Comfortable & sturdy
- Black anodized machined aluminum housing
- Oversized digigear
- Solid screw-in handle
- Air rotor
- Dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool
- All-aluminum body
- MAGSEAL tech main shaft
- Stainless steel AIRBAIL
- Waterproof drag system
- Carbon ATD
- Braided Line Ready Spool
- Larger roller & pick up on the bail
Cons
- Warranty issue
Final Verdict
You should go for the Daiwa bg spinning reel as it is one of the great bass spinning reels that work perfectly in freshwater and saltwater. The customers have highly rated this spinning reel as their strongest companion in bass fishing.
Okuma Ceymar Best Spinning Fishing Reel
The sleek design and smooth performance of Okuma Ceymar spinning reels create a fabulous fishing experience for all anglers.
Featuring Okuma precision elliptical gearing and constructed on a fluid 8-bearing drive system, Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel delivers a full line-up of advanced features. A solid, machined aluminum spool creates the foundation of strength for braided and monofilament fishing line capacity.
The heavy-duty rigid aluminum bail wire and oversized line roller deliver confident performance over the long term. In addition, the rotor system features the Okuma RESII computer balancing, so Ceymar spins even at high speed without developing wobble.
A forged aluminum handle arm offers complete control over the reel, while custom EVA handle knobs are supremely comfortable. Finally, bass anglers will notice the Blade Body Design that is redefined and compact, reduces bulk, and minimizes the overall size of the Okuma Ceymar spinning reel so that bass anglers can focus on the fish they’re catching.
Okuma Ceymar spinning reels offer multiple reel sizes for your preference. The C-30, C-40 are for versatile freshwater performers. These intermediate sizes suit most anglers for bass fishing. The 30 size is more for finesse applications like drop-shotting bass or jigging walleye with a 6- to 8-pound line capacity.
Pros
- A fluid 8-bearing drive construction system
- Rigid, machined aluminum spool
- Heavy-duty solid aluminum bail wire
- Oversized line roller
- Okuma RESII computer balancing
- A forged aluminum handle arm
- Custom EVA handle knobs
- The powerful, multi-disc drag system
- 7BB + 1RB for ultimate smoothness
- Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing
- Precision, machine cut brass pinion gear
- Corrosion-resistant Blade Body Design
Cons
- Mount base might be large
Final Verdict
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel delivers the motivation to hit the water confidently, the energy to maintain focus and excitement, which injects in every cast with high expectations. The dynamic design, advanced materials, and commitment to longevity in their fantastic reel are not simply a mean to an end.
Pflueger President Best Stainless Steel Spinning Fishing Reel
Pflueger’s products are well known for their innovation, dependability, and attention to detail– and the Pflueger President Spinning Reel is certainly no exception.
The spinning reel uses corrosion-resistant stainless steel bearings as part of the 7 bearing system and provides a super smooth retrieval. The max drag rating on this spinning reel is very comparable to other quality reels.
Pflueger President Spinning Reel’s body, rotor, and rod are made of a lightweight graphite body that is super durable and lightweight. It provides extra room to line retrieve, and it has a stronger drag too. In addition, the braid-ready spool allows the braided line to be tied directly to the spool.
The handle of the bass spinning reel is a soft touch, which gives you a soft and steady grip on the knob. In addition, the dimpled design of the knob gives you a better grip and will fit your hands perfectly.
The handle of this spinning reel for bass is made of aircraft-grade aluminum for more durability. You don’t need to worry about saltwater with aluminum. The bearings made of stainless steel are also super durable and resistant to saltwater.
The reel’s weight is 10% lighter than previous reels by Pflueger, despite it being more functional than other reels. It also has a lubricated, smooth sealed drag system. In addition, the slow oscillation gearing of this bass reel improves line lay and minimizes line twists.
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant stainless 7 steel bearing system
- Max drag rating
- Lightweight graphite body
- Braid ready spool
- Soft and steady grip
- Aircraft-grade aluminum made handle
- Super durable and saltwater resistant steel bearings
- The lubricated and smooth sealed drag system
- Slow oscillation gearing
Cons
- Line twist might be defective
Final Verdict
You can find the smooth performance at a great value with Pflueger President Spinning Reel! The affordable spinning reel is a perfect choice for beginners. However, it’s also a premium reel for the more seasoned anglers out there who are looking for some versatility.
Shimano Stradic CI4+ Best Bass Fishing Reel
Shimano has created an extremely light but powerful spinning reel by using carbon interior fusion technology. As a result, this reel casts well for catching bass.
Shimano worked with the Ci4+ to ensure the line capacity rings would come off the reel quickly and smoothly, like adding a One-Piece Bail, their Propulsion Line Management System, and incorporating X-Ship technology.
The Shimano Stradic Ci4+ is built with durability and longevity in mind. The bass fishing reel is constructed from a CI4 carbon body and a cold-forged aluminum spool that controls spool rotation. These materials are heavy-duty and can last against the harshest of environments.
Moreover, the Shimano Stradic Ci4’s X-ship technology further ensures its durability. This technology removes friction between the spool shaft and gear, improving the reel’s longevity and casting abilities. Shimano Stradic Ci4+ also features its propulsion rocket line management system.
Shimano Stradic CI4+ features Aero Wrap II tech. Using a patented worm gear, the spool of the Ci4+ moves up quickly and back down slowly to create a criss-cross pattern.
The Shimano Stradic Ci4+ bass fishing reel also comes with a Hagane body and gears. This Hagane design of the spinning reel allows for the reel to be more durable and reliable over time.
As you spin the drag on top of the Shimano Stradic CI4+ reel, you’ll feel little clicks. Each click represents a micro-adjustment that allows you to stair-step up or down the amount of resistance you want from the reel.
Pros
- Durable & Lightweight
- CI4+ carbon body
- Cold-forged spool
- X-ship technology
- Flagship Hagane gearing and body
- Magnumlite rotor
- Propulsion line management system
- Built-in Dyna-balanced rotor
- Built-in Fluidrive II system
Cons
- Some plastic parts
Final Verdict
The Shimano Stradic CI4+ is a great spinning reel for both fresh and inshore saltwater fishing for its smooth operation. This should be your top pick if you’re looking for a lightweight, smooth and comfortable bass spinning reel.
One Bass Spinning Fishing Reels
One Bass Spinning Reels are super lightweight fishing reels built with a high percentage fiber-reinforced graphite body and lightweight graphite rotor! You’ll be amazed by the quiet, silky smooth retrieve of the R-spider DL.
It has 12 ball bearings + 1 instant anti-reverse bearing, and the machined aluminum spool prevents your fishing line from slipping and houses a sealed carbon drag system that delivers consistent pressure. The reel weight is further reduced with an ergonomic EVA handle knob.
The reel also features a super rigid C4LF carbon-fiber rotor, extra-hard PT gears. These components give the One Bass R-Spider DL Inshore Spinning Reel durability and strength rarely seen in a fishing reel in this class.
Tough-as-nails, the One Bass Spinning Reels are built with a new performance-tuned, anti-corrosive bearing system that ensures smooth, long-lasting performance. In addition, this reel for bass fishing is made with a smoother, refined oscillation system for perfect line lay and increased casting distance.
The One Bass Spinning Reels will have anglers well on their way to landing a monster fish. It has a Right / Left interchangeable EVA handle that is comfortable and lightweight, with a brilliant finish. Its high strength makes further casting.
Moreover, The One Bass Spinning Reels has a CNC Aluminum Spool of hollow frame design and computer balancing system combined with high performance. As a result, it might be the lightest reel for a long time fishing.
The professional design of the bass spinning reels helps remove line twists and prevent tangles. Its superior drag system provides incredible stopping power.
The spinning reels for bass fishing have corrosion-resistant smooth ball bearings. One instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing gives it ultra-smooth performance. They also feature a hardened metal main shaft, perfect mesh drive gear and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.
Pros
- Smooth, Lightweight & Durable
- Oversized ergonomic EVA handle
- Premium Quality Inner Parts
- Anti-Twist Line Roller
- Superior Drag System
- Carbon-fiber rotor design
- Amazing high-efficiency triple disc carbon fiber
- Smooth, durable, & corrosion -resistant ball bearings
- Super lightweight & strong magnesium body frame
- Carbon composite rotor and side plate
- Machined aluminum reel spool
- Aluminum handle
- Machined aluminum durable one-piece bail
Cons
- It might work less in high saltwater
Final Verdict
One Bass R-spider DL fishing reel is a great choice for everything from lighter freshwater to medium saltwater fishing applications. It is ideal for freshwater fish like bass. It has added protection and outstanding performance that can pull double-duty in freshwater and medium saltwater.
KastKing Best Summer and Centron Spinning Fishing Reels
The KastKing Summer/Centron Spinning Reel is loaded with quality features. It might be an excellent addition to your fishing tackle collection. The KastKing Summer Fishing Reel turns any angler into a PRO.
The KastKing reels are incredibly lightweight. The narrow graphite frame design and computer balancing system combined with high performance in the compact spinning reel make KastKing an awesome gift for anyone who loves fishing.
The spinning reel for bass features 9 + 1 quality ball bearings, powerful drag, and special components that stand up to hard use. The KastKing bass spinning reel has a lighter and stronger CNC machined spool with a more even line lay, internal grooves for lube retention, and more fishing line capacity.
In addition, the nine quality ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing give this bass reel ultra-smooth performance.
KastKing Summer/Centron spinning reel’s Superior Drag System offers incredible stopping power up to 17.5LBs. It has a rigid metal main shaft, perfect mesh drive gear, and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.
This bass reel has a hardened metal main shaft, perfect mesh drive gear, and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.
The bass spinning reel’s attractive, brilliant finish and its high strength two color anodized aluminum spool along with a power launch lip for further casting holds more line than competitor’s models that sell for much more.
Pros
- Lightweight, high powered & smooth
- Attractive brilliant finish
- Lightweight, compact design for effortless casting
- High tensile strength graphite frame resists corrosion
- Superior drag system for intensive drag power
- Precision pinion gear system
- Unique design handle
- Right / Left interchangeable
Cons
- Can not stand cold/rainy days
Final Verdict
The KastKing Bass Spinning Reel can only be used in freshwater conditions. However, you should buy this if you want bass spinning reels with loaded features at a low price.
Penn Clash II Spinning Reel, Sea Fishing Reel for Bass, Pollack, Cod, Wrasse
When it comes to fishing for bass in the shallow sea with live or artificial bait, the Penn Clash II Fishing Reels are ideal because they are light, automatic spinning reels.
Inshore and offshore striper and bluefish enthusiasts in the northeastern should give this product a try because it was originally developed to provide smooth functioning over a long life. The spinning reels created by Penn are known for their smoothness, and this model is no exception.
It’s one of the greatest surf angling reels on the market today. Purchasing this would be a good idea if you’re a fisherman who’s passionate about the sport. It contains all the characteristics you have been looking for in a surfing reel.
The reel body, or housing, is another name for the reel. A combination of graphite and aluminum can also be used. Graphite is utilized in the less expensive spinning reels, whereas aluminum is the primary material in the more expensive ones since it provides the reel with greater strength. Aluminum is more durable than graphite, hence the former is preferable in terms of weight.
Choosing the right drag system for a rotating reel is crucial, and customers should keep this in mind when making their purchase. At the moment of the fight, the drag is essential for exerting pressure on the fish and allowing the line to be released.
If your drag isn’t working properly, you won’t be able to capture much fish. Carbon on the lightweight and smaller reel and aluminum on the big rods with the heavy-duty aluminum bail make Penn Clash II Fishing Reels for bass long-lasting.
With 8+1 ball bearings, Penn Clash II Fishing Reels for bass are an excellent rotating reel for both ocean and fresh water.
This is a great option if you’re a fan of surf fishing reels. This fishing reel’s every function is top-notch. If you enjoy fishing, you must give it a try. We are confident that this will be the most popular fishing trip you’ve ever had.
Pros:
- lightweight
- heavy-duty aluminum ball wire,
- 8+1 steel ball bearings,
- leveline oscillation system
- CNC gear technology.
Cons:
- Can be considered a bit pricey
Best Bass Fishing Reels Buying Guide
Bass fishing is the most popular type of fishing in many areas. You need the perfect bass fishing reel to ace the art of it. Buying a proper fishing reel for bass can make a difference between a successful and stressful fishing trip. Having the right fishing reel for bass can make or break your session as it forms the backbone of your set-up, whatever you’re fishing for. Anyone who chooses to fish for a hobby has at one point been a bit overwhelmed trying to select the perfect gear. That is why you need to learn everything you possibly can about buying one.
In this article, we’ll show you what factors to consider before buying a bass fishing reel. You’ll be able to find a bass reel that fits your specifications perfectly with the help of this buying guide!
Types of Fishing Reels
The basic types of fishing reels are spin casting reel, spinning reel, and baitcasting reel. They are great for different purposes, so you should learn how it works and see if it fits your needs before buying one.
Spincasting reel is the very simple and cheapest type of fishing reel out there. Spinning reels are a great option for novice fishermen. They work well with bass lures and smaller baits and are good for several species and habitats. However, spinning reels are mainly used as bass fishing reels.
Baitcasting reels are the most powerful fishing reels. They can handle heavy lines and produce a lot of pulling power, making them an excellent option when you’re chasing larger fish. The casting reels are recommended for experienced anglers as the professional bass fisherman uses them.
Construction
You need a reel that is well constructed with durable components in a way that prevents too much debris or water from getting in and around the reel. Most spinning reels for bass will feature all-metal construction, including a side plate and anodized gear that protects you against saltwater. Ensure that the bail wire is made of aluminum or something equivalent and that your fishing rod and reel are compatible.
Line Capacity
If you’re going to a local lake, you can work with a medium reel. On the other hand, if you’re going to a place you’re not so familiar with, it is recommended to have a bigger reel that can house any line.
Weight & Comfort
Fishing may take hours and more. To avoid any extra weight that could lead to wrist fatigue and injuries, find the lightest bass fishing reel you possibly can. This way, you’ll feel comfortable even after a few hours of casting and reeling. Moreover, choose a reel that gives you maximum comfort while fishing.
Gear Ratio
Bass are speedy fish and love retreating to underwater structures when they feel threatened. Therefore, once a bass is hooked, it’s crucial to reel the fish in as fast as possible so that it can’t tangle your line around logs or grass. The spinning reels for bass require at least a 6:1 gear ratio. 6:1 and a higher gear ratio will allow you to get the bass away from dangerous rocks and logs and take it into the boat as quickly as possible.
Corrosion
If you don’t want to change your reel every year, it is essential to make sure it is made of a material that won’t corrode. This is even more important if you’ll be fishing in a saltwater area. You could also get a reel that has a protective coating and sealed internal components.
Spool Size & Shape
If you’re looking for a spinning reel, the size and shape of the spool could vary. The way the spool is configured could impact line capacity and how far your cast will go. Opting for a deeper spool means your casting distance will increase, while if you go with a wider spool, there will be more space for the fishing line. The rocket spool lip design can be a plus!
Reel Size
The reel size could have a big influence on your fishing success. For instance, if you plan to fish in freshwater or go after bass or smaller trout, you won’t need a large reel. The 2500 size spinning reel works better for bass fishing.
Drag
The drag system puts pressure on the bass when it tries to run from your boat. A rear drag system can be more helpful, as it gives the angler faster access to adjust in the middle of a fight. A perfect bass fishing reel should have a maximum dag pressure of at least 12 lbs. It will help keep a strong bass in check and help you tire the fish out faster.
Smooth Bearings & Anti-Reverse Switch
Smooth bearings aren’t necessary, but they give you extra confidence when fighting a large bass. You need to spend more money to have smoother bearings. An anti-reverse switch is also vital for bass fishing. It will help you set the hook effectively and ensure the line doesn’t go slack when battling a large bass.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of your reel is critical with bass fishing as most people use finesse angling techniques; you need to be able to feel everything. The best way to impact the sensitivity of your reel is by choosing a high-quality reel made from graphite and a sensitive casting rod with a reel combo to pair with it to have a good reel feel.
Conclusion
Fishing is one of the most enjoyable pastimes which keeps your physical and mental state healthy and sound. Bass fishing is the most famous fishing nowadays. Fishing is loaded with fun and energy. If you have the best spinning reels, nothing can stop you from having the most remunerating experience of your life. We’ve provided everything you need to know about the fishing reel for bass with our top picks to make your fishing journey more interesting. Get ready with the help of this article and go – the water adventures are waiting!
FAQs
Can you bass fish with a spinning reel?
Ans: Yes, you can surely bass fish with a spinning reel.
Is a heavy rod good for bass fishing?
Ans: No, medium power with moderate-fast or fast action rod works well for bass fishing.
Spinning vs. baitcasting reels – which is the better reel for bass?
Ans: Spinning reels are better for bass fishing than baitcasting reels.
What gear ratio is the best for bass fishing?
Ans: Reels with a gear ratio of 6:1 are fittest for bass fishing.
What is a good size for a spinning reel for bass?
Ans: The 2500 size reel is excellent for bass fishing.
What is the proper rod length for bass fishing?
Ans: Longer casting rods over 7 feet are suitable for bass fishing.
What type of reel is the most appropriate for bass fishing?
Ans: Though baitcasting reels can be used for bass fishing, spinning reels are the safest bet in this case.
Which is largemouth bass reel should I buy?
Ans: There are many largemouth bass reels available in the market. You can check our comprehensive article for further information.
Why should I choose a spinning reel while fishing for bass?
Ans: While bass fishing, you should use a spinning reel because they work well with lightweight lures and smaller baits.