The best spinning reel is the one that matches your rod, your line and the fish you chase. Look at size, gear ratio, maximum drag and weight. Here is how to compare them, using the three spinning reels we sell and only the figures their listings state.
How do I pick the size?
Small sizes, 1000 to 2000, suit light line and small lures. Mid sizes, 3000 to 4000, are all-round. Large sizes, 5000 and up, hold more heavier line. See our reel size guide.
What does the gear ratio mean?
A 5.2:1 ratio means the rotor turns about five times for each turn of the handle. Higher is faster retrieve, lower is more power. Our 5.2:1 reel lists it for every size.
What about drag?
Maximum drag is how hard the reel can pull against a fish. The 5.2:1 reel lists an 8 kg maximum drag. The other two reels do not state a drag figure, so we do not quote one.
Which of ours suits me?
The 5.2:1 reel gives the most stated specs, in sizes 1000 to 7000. The metal-cup reel has a folding handle that swaps left and right, in 2000 to 7000. The metal reel comes in 1000 to 7000.
Compare what we sell
| Product | What the listing says | In the box | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spinning reel, 5.2:1, 8 kg drag, 1000 to 7000 | Gear ratio: 5.2:1Max drag: 8 kgSizes: 1000 to 7000 | Spinning reel: 1 | $19.99 |
| Spinning reel, metal cup, 2000 to 7000 | Sizes: 2000 to 7000Handle: Folding metal, left or rightSpool: Metal | Spinning reel: 1 | $15.99 |
| Metal spinning reel, 1000 to 7000 sizes | Sizes: 1000 to 7000Type: SpinningBody: Metal | Spinning reel: 1 | $17.99 |
Questions people ask
What size spinning reel for bass?
Many anglers use 2500 to 3000 for general bass fishing.
Do these reels come with line?
No. See our spooling guide.
Left or right handed?
The folding handle on the metal-cup reel swaps sides, and many spinning reels do the same.
