Lightweight fishing reels are a great option when you’re going to be on the water a long time to help you avoid fatigue. They are also excellent for targeting smaller fish, and for kids who may not yet have the strength to hold heavier gear for long periods of time. If you’re looking for the perfect ultralight spinning reel to add to your gear collection, here we will review some of the best options on the market.
Best Ultralight Spinning Reel
- Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
- SHIMANO Sedona Spinning Fishing Reel
- KastKing Sharky III Spinning Fishing Reel,Size 2000
- Shimano Stradic CI4 1000FB HG Freshwater Spinning Reel
- Okuma, Avenger New Generation Spinning Reel
1. Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
Product Features
Brand Name: Okuma
Weight: 6.2 – 9.1 Oz
Bearings: 8+1
Max Drag: 6-13 lbs
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
The Okuma Helios Lightweight spinning reel takes the top spot on our list. This reel is made from a powerful carbon frame and an aluminum anodized spool. This reel is available in multiple models, but the hsx 30 is the one we really recommend if you’re shopping for a great ultralight spinning reel under 100. The hsx-30 model weighs a lightweight 6.2 ounces with a smooth 8+1 bearing system and 6lbs of drag. This one works well for both freshwater and saltwater fishing which makes for a great real at a great value.
2. SHIMANO Sedona Spinning Fishing Reel
Product Features
Brand Name: Shimano
Weight: 7.6 Oz
Bearings: 3+1
Max Drag: 7 lbs
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
The Shimano Sedona Freshwater Spinning Reel is our number two spot. The specs we have outlined here are for their 1000 model. They also have other sizes in the list listing with different specs, so make sure to read them carefully if you are interested in a different size. The 1000 model is a lightweight 7.6 oz spinning reel with a strong 7 lb drag and smooth performance. It has a unique line management system to allow for extra-long casts that also helps to prevent knots and backlash. It is also one of the cheaper options on the market if you’re looking for a budget-friendly ultralight spinning reel. The only drawback with this one is that it is better suited for freshwater fishing. So if you are looking for a saltwater friendly reel, you may have to go with another option.
3. KastKing Sharky III Spinning Fishing Reel,Size 2000
Product Features
Brand Name: KastKing
Weight: 9.1 Oz
Bearings: 10+1
Max Drag: 33lbs
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
The KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel is our third spot on the list. This reel (the 2000 model) weighs an ultralight 9.1 ounces while having a powerful 33-pound max drag system. The ultra-smooth reel also features 10+1 bearings with a stainless steel shield to keep your reel protected from saltwater and other harsh elements. This is everything you could ask for in a good spinning real. It’s one of the best for the money, it’s got a powerful and smooth drag system, and is great for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
4. Shimano Stradic CI4 1000FB HG Freshwater Spinning Reel
Product Features
Brand Name: Shimano
Weight: 5.6 Oz
Bearings: 6+1
Max Drag: 7 lbs
Gear Ratio: 6.0:1
The Shimano Stradic is another excellent reel. This is high-end spinning real weighs a lightweight 5.6 ounces (the 1000 size) and has a smooth 6+1 bearing system. It features an improved gear system that allows for further casting distances while being durable enough to fight inshore or offshore fish. In the end you get a high performing fishing reel capable of fishing anywhere.
5. Okuma, Avenger New Generation Spinning Reel
Product Features
Brand Name: Okuma
Weight: 6.8
Bearings: 6+1
Max Drag: 6.6 lbs
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
If you’re after a quality cheap ultralight fishing reel that won’t break the bank, the Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel is one of the more affordable options on the market. The reel weighs 6.8 ounces and has a 6+1 bearing system with 6.6 lbs of max drag. It has smooth performance with a gear system designed for further casting distances while avoiding backlash. Overall this is a great reel at a great value, so we really can’t complain.
Ultralight Spinning Reel Buying Guide
When you’re buying an ultralight spinning reel there are a few things you want to take into consideration:
- Drag
- Bearings
- Gear Ratio
- Max drag
- Cost
Drag
The drag is an important factor when choosing a spinning reel, especially if you’re going after larger fish. One of the most critical aspects is having a smooth drag system. If this drag isn’t smooth you may end up losing fish. Drag weight can also be important depending on the kind of fish you are going after. In general, for an ultralight reel, we recommend the max drag weight should be at least about 7lbs.
Bearings
Having a high number of bearings is usually a good thing because it helps your reel reduce friction and run smoothly without locking up. Usually, at least a 6+1 bearing count reel will be sufficient, however, you can get away with fewer bearings if the quality of the bearings is good enough. The quality of the bearings is often more important than the number of bearings. Another feature you may want to look for is some kind of sealed bearing system or guard to prevent corrosion, especially if you are saltwater fishing, this can be important for the longevity of your reel.
Weight
If you’re shopping for an ultralight reel, you already have weight in mind. Generally, you want something around 8 ounces or less. But you may consider a slightly heavier reel if it has other good features.
Cost
Cost is always important. If you’re looking for a high-end fishing reel you can find some good options under 200. In the mid-range price, there are some well-made fishing reels under 100, and if you’re looking at cheaper models you will be able to find a good ultralight reel under 50.
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