The spinning reel is the most commonly used in fishing. Why? Easy to use, reasonable fish prices, and flexible, they can meet any techniques, including jigging or drop shots.

Especially in finesse fishing, many people give up baitcasting reels to return to spinning reels, combined with light line, light lures, medium-action spinning rods.

Bass fishing is one of the most favored sports of many anglers, including me. To have an efficient trip, you must have a good setup, which has become an annoying problem when buying a new reel.

So I have listed the top 10 best spinning reels for bass fishing, you can refer to them below.

Best spinning reel for bass (Quick comparison)

If you are in a hurry, refer to the quick comparison table for the best reels for bass fishing below:

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top 10 Best Spinning Reels for Bass

Penn Battle II

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is an ideal reel for most bass fishing people in saltwater, especially beginners. With not up to 100 dollars, you will have a reel with excellent features and performance.

With a full-body design is a metal, side plate, rotor, heavy-duty aluminum bail wire, and five sealed stainless steel ball bearings, you can fight comfortably with bass in saltwater without worrying corrosion. It comes with proprietary grease, if maintained appropriately, its lifespan will be very high.

Equipped with an HT-100 Versa-Drag carbon fiber drag system, you will have smooth drag. Combine with instant anti-reverse bearing, which helps type resistance uninterrupted when rotating. This is an essential factor when fighting bigger fish.

The spool attached to a rubber gasket helps SuperLine spool directly use a braided line without a monofilament backing. It also has line capacity rings, which allows you to see how many lines are available in the spool.

Just spend less than 100 dollars, you will own a spinning reel with many outstanding advantages, providing you with an excellent performance to bass fishing.

Penn Pursuit III

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Continuing is Penn’s product – one of the world’s leading bass fishing reel manufacturers. It is also cheaper than the one I have introduced above, you will not be able to guess its performance when you just look at the price.

There is nothing strange with the HT-100 Versa-Drag carbon fiber drag system, and Instant Anti-Reverse bearing helps you fight big fish smoothly and sustainably. Thanks to the line capacity rings, you can also know how many lines you have out.

The whole body is made of graphite, a 4+1 stainless steel bearing system, which creates a gentle and smooth reel and helps you extend the longer fighting.

It is the first reels for most saltwater anglers, partly because of its input prices, also partly because of resistance to corrosion sustainability.

With a machined and anodized aluminum superl0iner spool, you can easily disassemble to clean and handle preliminary. You won’t need to worry about ruining your reel if you have no previous experience.

In short, if you are a finesse bass angler, don’t need too much power to fight, and the budget is not too much, this is an excellent choice for you.

Daiwa BG

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Owning a “Hard Bodyz” design with an anodized machined aluminum housing creates certainty and high corrosion resistance. However, the spool is painted is not anodized, so don’t ignore the corrosion of saltwater and full maintenance after each trip.

The ABS spool and oversized Digigear system with seven bearings (six ball bearings and one roller bearing) equipped on the reel supply more space for teeth to come in contact help reduce friction, creating smoothness when casting.

Along with that are the typical designs of Daiwa, cross-cut carbon fiber washers, waterproof and carbon ATD drag system, all that create consistency in the drag system. You can still fight with larger bass with just over 100 dollars.

There are two anti-reverse systems equipped on BG, an infinite anti-reverse system for sizes 4000 and smaller; Conversely, fitted with an infinite dual anti-reverse system.

It is necessary to pay attention as it is heavier and greater than the reels I listed because it is equipped with Air Rotor – Weighs 15% less than most Rotors. When you buy this, you should note its size. For example, The Daiwa BG 3000 will be like Shimano reels sized 4000-4500. So, if you plan to buy Daiwa BG for smaller bass fishing, buy smaller sizes than normal.

Okuma Ceymar

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Next is a heavy opponent from Okuma manufacturer. Own a series of outstanding features to meet for most different types of fishing.

The Okuma’s advanced precision elliptical gearing helps you control the casting process and increase distance and accuracy. If it comes to casting, it is impossible to mention the smoothness of Ceymar thanks to an 8-bearing drive system (seven ball bearings and one roller bearing), making your casting process well as possible.

Besides, a feature engaged in support to bring the maximum performance is Okuma RESII computer balancing in the rotor system, helping to stay stable as soon as at high speeds.

The combination of A forged aluminum handle arm and EVA handle knobs allows you to adjust at your disposal, bringing the highest pleasant when used. Ceymar also includes a powerful multi-disc drag system and quick-Set anti-reverse.

Many bass fishing people will pay attention to the design of the reel. With Okuma Ceymar, you will have a compact design with Blade Body and machined aluminum spool, creating a compact, delicate but still certainly accompanied by high corrosion resistance.

Okuma Ceymar has many different sizes suitable for different types of fishing. For bass fishing, the perfect size you should choose is C-30, C-40. If the fish you are aiming to be striped bass, you need a slightly larger model, and the best is C-55.

Kastking Sharky III

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The reel surprised me when I just bought it and held it in my hand. I don’t think it’s the same quality as some reels I already own but for three times cheaper.

When it comes to its performance, there’s no denying it, it’s just amazing. KastKing is probably one of the manufacturers of the best quality reels at an extremely affordable price.

You’ll get smooth, solid traction with 10 + 1 high-quality double shielded stainless-steel ball bearings with instant lock anti-reverse functionality. Besides, with the help of a reliable triple disc carbon, you can easily beat the big bass fish.

Combined with designs including precision manganese brass alloy gear, stainless steel hardware, and aluminum handle, you can battle bass from saltwater to freshwater.

You won’t have to worry too much about saltwater corrosion because its spool, body, and rotor feature the signature waterproof design of the much loved KastKing manufacturer-KISS (Kastking Intrusion Shield System).

Next, what surprised me the most about Kastking was its strong drag. What do you think with a reel for just under $100 but still have an excellent performance with larger fish? Do you think it’s very heavy? No, it’s not heavy, the Sharky III has a high percentage fiber-reinforced graphite body and rotor, so weight won’t be an issue you need to worry about during combat.

PENN Slammer III

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Looking at its appearance, I am pretty impressed by the combination of black and gold, creating both simple but with great appeal. I love this color combo.

In terms of features, there is nothing more to say with Slammer III. If you are looking for a reel at a reasonable price that can still fight bass fish, especially large bass fish from freshwater to saltwater, then look no further.

The construction of this reel is very solid with a full metal body, side plate, rotor IP6 sealed body and spool design, CNC gear. If anglers like the ultimate appearance, this reel cannot be ignored.

Combined with powerful features and designs, you can fight long and smoothly. A unique thing about Slammer III is owning the Dura-Drag system, which creates a lot of drag, great for catching large, healthy bass.

Besides, it has a great rig, so you can ensure good performance in any type of fishing, such as bottom fishing, high speed or slow pitch jigging, trolling, or casting. Combined with it is the 6+1 stainless steel bearing system, a smooth fight will ensue.

However, it is more expensive than the other reels on the list, if you don’t have too much budget, you can skip this reel. A commonly used phrase to describe Slammer III is: it’s not the best, but it’s always suitable for any type of fishing.

Pflueger President

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The next reel is listed as the best bass spinning reels from the manufacturer Pflueger. Many of my friends don’t like this manufacturer’s customer support policies, neither do I.

However, it is undeniable that they have created quality products in the price range. Pfluger President also has many features to support bass fishing.

First of all, it comes to its appearance design. The graphite body, rotor, and aluminum spool provide lightness and comfort when catching bass. It is also an essential factor in long-term battles with those nimble fish.

However, it is not optimal for catching fish that are too light, with a gear ratio of 5.2:1 providing high torque to minimize pulling effort, it is more suitable for fishing with larger bass and in deep water.

Smooth performance is always what many anglers aim for. If you’ve read my articles, I’ve mentioned that I’m a person who is always on the hunt for performance; the higher, the better.

And to do this, Pflueger offers 7 corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings, which ensure smooth performance and increase corrosion resistance when saltwater fishing.

In short, if you don’t feel too much discomfort with the manufacturer Pflueger, this reel is a good, high-performance piece of equipment at an affordable price that will help you get the most out of your bass fishing trip.

KastKing Centron

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Looking for an excellent bass fishing spinning reel but have a budget under $50? This is a great option for you. It is not uncommon for KastKing to have good-quality reels at extremely low prices.

If you think that for that price, maybe its performance is not so good, you are completely wrong. With a combination of a superior drag system (handle 17.5lb), computer balancing system, and precision pinion gear system, you can comfortably fight with bass fish without worrying too much about being exhausted.

Smoothness won’t be an issue with 9+1 ball bearings, and the instant stop anti-reverse makes it possible to challenge yourself in various situations.

Besides, what impresses me about the KastKing Centron is its appearance. Possessing an outstanding design with two tones of blue and black to create charm and mystery.

Centron has a high tensile anodized aluminum spool, graphite frame, hardened metal main shaft, precision machined pinion gear in terms of reel components. All of that contributes to a compact design, however, not too light. It is still a bit heavier than the other reels.

If you use it for bass fishing in saltwater, I think it’s best to clean it thoroughly after every trip because its corrosion resistance is not as good as expected.

If you need a great reel with good performance, but the price is just under $50, this is definitely the choice.

Sougayliang

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is the cheapest reel on the list I have listed, and of course, its performance won’t be higher than the others, but it will certainly be good for bass fishing.

One thing that makes many people curious about this reel is that it has 11BB. When a friend told me about this a few years ago, I had to order one to test it out. At that time I thought with such a low price and owning so many bearings, would it work well?

After a few castings, I realized maybe it’s easy to use when catching bass and has some good features to put on this list.

Design first has a CNC aluminum spool, ultra-thin streamlined designed body, premium quality inner parts, and high-tensile gear. Sougayliang aims for streamlining, compactness, and lightness, making sure to feel as comfortable as possible when fishing.

I have to admit, Sougayliang’s design is very satisfying to customers. For example, with a left/right interchangeable collapsible wood handle, you can fight with bass fish continuously for a long time.

You can have a great performance with an S-curve oscillation system and control with sound when casting.

When it comes to performance, just looking at its price, you don’t have to expect too much from it, it’s just enough to satisfy smaller bass. Sougayliang has a carbon drag system and 11BB’s support for extremely smooth movements.

What disappoints me about this reel is that the ball bearings have plastic washers and are not durable. It probably won’t be your long-term companion.

Penn Spinfisher VI

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It is no wonder that a product from the manufacturer Penn continues to be on the list of the best open face reel for bass. Many anglers, myself included, prefer sturdy, durable designs that offer high performance at an affordable price.

Spinfisher VI continues to own typical designs from the manufacturer Penn, IPX5 sealed body and spool design, CNC gear, Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers, Full-metal body. There’s so much ultimate design in one reel, providing a great performance when fighting larger bass.

If you regularly fish in saltwater, you don’t need to worry too much about saltwater corrosion. Any reel from Penn has good resistance to saltwater, but don’t be too subjective; you should clean and maintain it after each trip to prolong the reel’s life.

With an average gear ratio of 6.2:1 and 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball-bearing to give you a smooth performance in the casting process, combined with the instant anti-reverse system, you can easily fight the larger bass.

In short, any reel from Penn manufacturer is good for bass fishing. Depending on your budget, choose a reel with the best performance to help you achieve outstanding performance.

How to choose a good spinning reel for bass fishing

There are many criteria to select a good spinning reel for bass, but how to know them all? I will list all below. You can refer to it to choose a reel as best as possible.

Quality

This is an important factor in making a good spinning reel. The reel must be made from high-quality materials and components with high accuracy. Otherwise, its life will certainly not be high. A higher-quality reel must be a companion for longer with you on many fishing trips.

Looking at the top spinning reels for bass I listed above, I can see graphite composite or aluminum alloy are the two most used materials. Choose very important materials, especially saltwater fishing.

Both types of materials can be used for saltwater fishing. Graphite is lighter, cheaper, has certain durability, good impact resistance. Besides, aluminum is more durable, heavier than graphite, and has excellent corrosion resistance.

Weight

Many bass anglers often ignore these factors when choosing a spinning reel. But if you use a too heavy reel for a long time, I’m sure your arms and shoulders will be very tired, affecting the performance of the trip.

Therefore, choose the weight to match a specific purpose, for example, if you determine the fish a fish only a few pounds, you won’t need too heavy. Materials also affect weight, you can refer to a reel made from graphite.

Drag System

The drag system is very important, especially when you fight the big fish; it puts pressure on the fish, preventing the line from breaking and losing fish.

You must find a quality drag system. Often they can be adjusted, so you need to set yourself a drag that suits the fish you target.

Reel and spool size

The first element you have to determine is reel size when buying a new reel. Every different size provides you with the option to match the rod and the type of fish you are targeting. It dramatically affects weight, line capacity, speed, power, and so on.

For bass fishing, small and medium sizes will be the best choice for you.

Besides, the greater the size of the reel, the larger the diameter of the spool. It affects how much the line will have in it.

Gear ratio

This index said the number of times the spool rotates with one handle turn. The higher the gear ratio, the faster the rotation speed. Bass is a flexible fish species, so you need a high gear ratio to be able to finish the fastest possible combat.

6: 1 is the most suitable gear ratio for bass fishing, you can refer to it when choosing a good spinning reel. If you want faster, you can still, depending on you.

Ball-bearing & Anti-Reverse System

Quality reels often have more ball bearings, which contributes to reducing friction and creating stability and smoothness during casting. Bass fishing reels are usually equipped with stainless steel ball bearings.

An anti-reverse system is a factor to note when you want to target larger fish species. This system will prevent the reel from turning back when the fish swim freely after taking the bait. The bass fishing reels often have an on/off switch to make it free to adjust.

Sensitivity

As I said, bass fishing is usually finesse fishing, so sensitivity is a factor to help you succeed to catch these fish through light bites. Often the bass anglers will use aluminum or carbon frames to improve the ability to detect those tiny bits.

Price

Finally the price, perhaps this is a factor that many people are interested in. It depends on the size of the bass that you are targeting.

Fortunately, today many reels have a high balance and performance with only under 100 dollars. However, I like stronger than that, so my reels are between 150 and 200 dollars.

Should we choose a spinning reel or baitcaster for bass fishing?

Each type has different advantages in accordance with different conditions. A spinning reel will be better than baitcasting if you want to conduct finesse fishing techniques combined with the smaller lure.

Besides, spinning reel also has some other advantages. When mentioning a spinning setup, people often refer to the ability to use it easily, flexibly in all different environmental conditions. If you use it with light jerk baits, crankbaits, and other light tackle is nothing better.

In particular, these reels are often cheaper than baitcasting reels but still ensure good stability performance. However, if you choose a low price, you will definitely not be able to use it for a long time.

Looking at its open-face design, many people worry about the ability to resist corrosion when used for bass fishing in saltwater environments. Fortunately, many manufacturers have improved it today, and most of the reels are replaced with anti-rust materials. Just maintain it after every saltwater fishing, it will be your long companion for many years.

Conclusion

To ensure the performance of the trip is thoroughly optimized, you must have a good fishing setup. And the best fishing reel for bass plays an important role in that.

The spinning reel is the choice of many bass anglers because of its adaptation in all cases. However, selecting a suitable spinning reel is a challenge for most anglers, especially those who don’t have much experience.

Therefore, I have completed listing the best bass fishing spinning reels above to help you choose easier.

Many people like the balance, and it’s the advantage of spinning reels. Many manufacturers today have met that with a low price.

The best reels for bass fishing are listed above, and I won’t choose one of them for you. The next thing you need to do is determine the size of the bass species you target, the weight of the lure, and look at your budget to pick out the most suitable one.

Further reading:

• Other info about fishing in Fishingandhuntingsports
• What do Spinning Reel Sizes Mean?