The Best Spinning Reels of 2025
Bass fishing saw a huge resurgence in spinning tackle across the board in 2025, driven mostly by the popularity of jighead minnows and other light-line, live sonar techniques. To meet soaring demand, manufacturers have released tons of new spinning reels! To help customers sort through all of the latest releases, Tackle Warehouse has divided all of the new spinning reels of 2025 into six different categories based on price, function, and overall performance. Below is our guide to help you narrow down the best options and pick out the perfect spinning reel, whether you’re brand new to bass fishing or a live sonar guru!
Best Overall Spinning Reel
Top Pick: Shimano Exsence Spinning Reels
Loaded with cutting-edge features, the Shimano Exsence Reels earned the title of Best Overall Spinning Reels for 2025 by pairing a lightweight feel with ultra-fine lure control. Sparing no expense, the Exsence Reels utilize an asymmetrical MGL rotor to decrease startup inertia by 22%. This decrease in inertia allows for enhanced lure control, making it perfect for finesse applications that demand subtle movement and nuanced angler input.
Capable of handling both freshwater and saltwater environments with ease, the Exsence Reels deliver impeccable smoothness and continue the tradition that Shimano reels are known for. Built with Shimano’s CI4+ carbon material that reduces weight while increasing strength, the Shimano Exsence Spinning Reels are made to be your go-to option if money is not an object.
Honorable Mention:
Best Spinning Reel Under $100
Top Pick: 13 Fishing Axum Spinning Reels
If you’re looking for a reel on a budget, the 13 Fishing Axum Spinning Reels have you covered with a high-performance and cost-efficient design under $100. Currently on sale at $79.97, this affordable price is hard to believe when you consider the silky-smooth performance of the Axum reels.
The Axum Spinning Reels feature a completely sealed rotor, Black Seal saltwater ball bearings, and ceramic line rollers with a 100% corrosion-proof CZB bearing to deliver ample durability for both fresh and saltwater applications. Whether you like to finesse fish for bass or target saltwater predators, the 13 Fishing Axum Spinning Reels are tested and proven to perform in the toughest environments.
Honorable Mention:
Best Value Spinning Reel
Top Pick: Shimano Ultegra FD Spinning Reels
Designed to deliver the most bang for your buck, the Shimano Ultegra FD Spinning Reels can handle a multitude of applications, from the saltwater flats to targeting bass in your local lake. Providing plenty of power, smoothness, and durability, the Ultegra FD Spinning Reels utilize SilentDrive and precision MicroModule II gears to enhance your reeling experience. Operating on corrosion-resistant S A-RB ball bearings and boasting X-Protect technology to direct water away from key internal parts, the Ultegra FD Spinning Reels are perfect for any angler who’s hunting for the right balance of performance and value.
Honorable Mention:
Best Trout/Panfish Spinning Reels
Taking the honors for 2025’s Best Trout/Panfish Spinning Reels, the Lew’s Wally Marshall Speed Shooter Reels are affordably priced at $54.99, making them perfect for everyday anglers who want to keep some extra money in their pockets. Featuring oiled felt multi-drag systems to deliver excellent light-line performance, the Speed Shooter Spinning Reels offer soft-touch knobs and a folding reversible handle accommodating a right- or left-handed retrieve. The Wally Marshall Speed Shooter Spinning Reels utilize lightweight skeletal graphite rotors and graphite frames for long-lasting durability and are available in two compact sizes.
Honorable Mention:
Best Bass Fishing Spinning Reels
Top Pick: Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reels
Fusing innovative technologies with outstanding bass-fishing performance, the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel stands on top of the Best Bass Fishing Spinning Reel winner’s podium. Built with a Monocoque (MQ) body to amplify rigidity and corrosion resistance, the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT boasts a lightweight design and offers plenty of line capacity in all the standard bass fishing sizes. The 2025 Ballistic MQ LT was also recognized by ICAST as 2025’s Best Freshwater Reel, and with a price tag of $239.99, anglers will enjoy top-tier performance at a modest price point.
Honorable Mention:
Best Oversized/Saltwater Spinning Reels
Top Pick: Daiwa Certate SW Spinning Reels
Earning the title of Best Oversized/Saltwater Spinning Reels, the Daiwa Certate SW Spinning Reels deliver a blend of strength and performance that’s perfect for hunting down tough saltwater predators. Incorporating Daiwa’s MagSealed technology to protect against corrosion, the Certate SW Reels are able to stop big snook, redfish, and trout with the help of the Automatic Tournament Drag (ATD) that delivers reliable and smooth drag pressure.
The Certate SW provides unmatched performance and cranking power thanks to the rugged and durable G1 Duralumin Tough Digigear. Available with plenty of line capacity, the Daiwa Certate SW Spinning Reels feature oversized EVA knobs to ensure a secure grip when fighting large saltwater predators.
Honorable Mention:
FAQ: Choosing the Best Spinning Reels
What features do the best spinning reels have in common?
The best spinning reels will typically feature a smooth and reliable drag system, high-quality construction for durability, a comfortable handle, and a bail system that offers easy line management. Other factors to consider include gear ratio, line capacity, and weight, all tailored to what you aim to use the reel for. For a good all-around spinning reel size for bass fishing, spools in the 2500 to 4000 range are commonly used.
How do I choose a spinning reel based on a rod?
Choosing the right spinning reel to match a rod you already own isn’t as difficult as it seems. Simply pair the reel size in correspondence with the rod’s power and action. Light rods (ultralight or light power rated for 4- to 10-lb test) pair well with 500 to 2500 reels, while heavier rods (medium-heavy or heavy power 15- to 25-lb rating) should be paired with larger reels up to the 4000 or sometimes 5000 size range to handle bigger fish and heavier lines. Always consider the balance and feel of the combination for a seamless fishing experience as well. Well-balanced setups will let you fish longer throughout the day thanks to their ergonomic and lightweight feel.
At the end of the day, it’s up to the angler to dictate if a setup feels bottom heavy or in some cases top heavy. Go with your gut in what feels right; if a reel doesn’t match your rod based on the feel, you can always return it.
Does number of bearings matter when choosing a spinning reel?
The number of bearings in a spinning reel can impact its smoothness and overall performance. Generally, more bearings tend to result in a smoother reel. However, it’s important to note that the quality of the bearings is equally important as the quantity. High-quality, shielded, ceramic, or sealed bearings will offer better longevity and performance. While a higher bearing count is a good indicator, it’s not the sole factor to consider. A spinning reel with a good balance of quality bearings is often a better choice. If anything, aftermarket bearings can always be used to upgrade a reel if you’re concerned about long-term smoothness.
What should I look for in the drag when choosing a spinning reel?
A reliable drag system is critical when selecting a spinning reel. Look for a reel with a smooth, adjustable drag that can handle sudden bursts of power when a fish is pulling hard. A multi-disc drag system is often preferable as it spreads the pressure evenly, preventing jerky movements and ensuring a consistent pull against your quarry. The drag’s overall stopping power and its ability to maintain that power under strain are also huge factors to consider.
How can I ensure easy castability and line management?
To ensure effortless castability and line management, consider the following:
1. Spool Design: Opt for a spool that is specifically designed for a smooth line release. Look for features like a V-shaped or long-cast spool if you’re looking to get more casting distance.
2. Bail System: The bail system should close smoothly and consistently to prevent line tangles. An anti-reverse feature is also essential to prevent the handle from spinning backward while you’re fighting a fish.
3. Line Roller: A high-quality line roller with bearings reduces line twist and ensures a smooth line lay on the spool during retrieval, even when you’re winding fast.
4. Line Capacity: Ensure that the reel’s line capacity matches the type and weight of line you intend to use. It’s important to avoid overfilling the spool, as this can hinder casting and line management.
5. Line Management Features: Some reels come with features like line clips, which can be used to hold the line in place during storage or transport. This feature can be especially useful when moving from one fishing spot to another.
6. Anti-Twist Technology: Some spinning reels also come with anti-twist technology in the form of a rotor that oscillates smoothly, minimizing line twist and ensuring seamless line management.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your spinning reel is optimized for easy casting and efficient line management, maximizing your time on the water.
Final Thoughts
Anglers have taken notice of how spinning reels are experiencing a huge boom in popularity, though some say they never went out of style. Compatible with almost any finesse fishing application, the right spinning reel for your desired technique or target species can make all the difference. Whether you’re searching for the best spinning reel for bass, trout, panfish, or saltwater predators, there are outstanding options for every budget and fishing style.
