We present the best saltwater spinning reels in 2023 with in-depth reel reviews of the latest edition of saltwater spinning reels that, for generations, will serve as a benchmark for small and medium game fishing, but recent innovations in metallurgy and design have made them a player in big game saltwater fishing as well. Advances in drag systems, gearing, and line capacities mean your spinner can win encounters with wahoo, amberjack, grouper, sailfish, and other big game while still shining during the surf fishing and jigging they’re best known for. We review the best saltwater spinning reels from Shimano, Daiwa, Penn, Okuma, Van Staal, and others that are tough enough, lightweight, and durable for handling nearly any kind of saltwater fishing application.
Top 3 Recommendations:
| Item | Name | Weight |
|---|---|---|
Best Choice For Professional Anglers Check Review | Van Staal VR150 Bailed Spinning Reel | 0.45 Kilograms |
Second Best Choice Check Review | SHIMANO Stradic FL Spinning Fishing Reel | 0.35 Kilograms |
Affordable Choice Check Review | Shimano Vanford F Spinning Reel | 0.15 Kilograms |
The Best Saltwater Spinning Reels Review
Shimano Stradic FL
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
The new Shimano Stradic FL saltwater spinning reel is the latest edition to a line of some of the best saltwater spinning reels that for generations have served as a benchmark by which all other reels in its class are measured. For years, the Shimano Stradic FL has set the bar for innovation and performance at its price point, and the Shimano Stradic FL continues this tradition by putting flagship-level performance in the hands of anglers at a price never thought possible. Shimano Stradic FL reels are used and appreciated by hundreds of thousands of fishermen from all over.
Shimano Stradic FL review:
4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 366 reviews)
Excellent: 88%
Very good: 12%
Average: 0%
Poor: 0%
Terrible: 0%
Check The Latest Price of Shimano Stradic FL Spinning Reel
Van Staal VR
Van Staal Saltwater Spinning Reels
The Van Staal VR Series reels are engineered and tested to be lightweight and long-lasting saltwater spinning reels. They are based on the same foundation that made Van Staal reels legendary for power and durability. These saltwater spinning reels are completely sealed and waterproof reel. Van Staal VR Reels are the latest evolution of Van Staal spinning reels. Fully sealed, with a lightweight 6061 aluminum construction and a powerful waterproof drag system. They come from the factory with a bail and a bail-less conversion kit, so you can fish them however you like (excludes VR50). Van Staal VR Spinning
Van Staal VR review:
Get All The Van Staal VR Reels Sizes
Daiwa BG Spinning Reels
Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reels
Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reels are so smooth with digitally cut gears and seven ball bearings. Daiwa BG has been redesigned. Lately, these reels are now extremely powerful yet priced just right. There’s a size for your every fishing need, whether it’s inshore, offshore, or shark fishing. The next generation of the ever-popular Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reels spinning reel series just got leaner and meaner. This complete series ranges from ultralight freshwater actions to heavy big game saltwater models. Daiwa BG TECHNOLOGY: Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing (“Hard Bodyz” Body & Side Cover).
Daiwa BG Spinning Reels review:
Shimano Vanford F
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
Check out the new Shimano Vanford F, designed to be the ultimate finesse fishing reel. Comes with a super-fast start-up, better than the iconic Stradic Ci4+. This stunning reel is equipped with a range of technology upgrades that set the Shimano Vanford F apart. Personally, I’m especially excited about these new Vanford spinning reels from Shimano. The Shimano Vanford range effectively replaces the already immensely popular Stradic CI 4 plus reels, and you might ask why to change something that’s already so good. Well, the answer is pretty simple to make it even better.
Shimano Vanford F review:
Penn Battle III DX
Penn Saltwater Spinning ReelsLook at the new Penn Battle III DX saltwater spinning reel. The new Penn Battle III DX is the ultimate reel for every angler. Better and more powerful, built to withstand whatever the saltwater angler puts these awesome fishing reels through. From your first striper to your hundredth red drum, The new Penn Battle III DX is the ultimate reel for every angler. In the version of the Penn Battle, we outdid ourselves again, pushing the envelope on what you can expect out of a reel. Now fitted with CNC Gear Technology, HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag System.
Penn Battle III DX review:
New Daiwa Saltiga
Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reels
The new Daiwa Saltiga 20 series of reels released in 2020 will make many anglers’ dreams come true. In 2020 Daiwa Saltiga will return to the market with the introduction of an MQ body and brand-new cosmetics. The larger diameter radiation drag knob with a heat sink system coupled with a newly designed drive gear brings strength and smoothness to the reel whilst the latest technology spool creates trouble-free casts. By adding every element of newly developed Daiwa Technology, we are certain by far that the new 20 Saltiga is the toughest reel produced throughout the long history of Saltiga.
New Daiwa Saltiga review:
Shimano Stella SW C
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
The new Shimano Stella SW C Spinning Reel from 2021 is the latest edition to the legacy of Shimano Stella SW C Saltwater Spinning Reels that have led the fishing world in durability, power, and operability. Shimano builds on that tradition with cutting-edge technologies bringing further unmatched strength, reliability, and ease of use to serious saltwater anglers. The new Shimano Stella SW represents the pinnacle of innovation for Shimano reel technology and fish-fighting performance. The new Shimano Stella SWC has been released with a number of significant upgrades that deliver Infinite Power across a full range of nine sizes.
Shimano Stella SW C review:
Penn Saltwater Spinning Reels
Sealed Body
The Penn Spinfisher VI is the newest edition in a long line of Penn reels known for durability. The most recent Spinfisher boasts the same rigid full metal body and HT-100 Drag system that made the previous Spinfisher a top performer. What’s new is that the Spinfisher VI has an improved water-resistant rating, meaning its internal components are even less susceptible to damage from water intrusion, as well as the implementation of Penn’s CNC Gear Technology, giving you ultra-precisely machined gears for unparalleled smoothness and durability. Penn has added two new models to the Spinfisher line-up with 2500.
Penn Spinfisher VI review:
Shimano Saragosa SW
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
Shimano Saragosa SW saltwater spinning reel is part of Shimano’s offshore spinning reel lineup dedicated to the Blue Water anglers. The Shimano Saragosa SW reels come in a wide range of sizes from 5000 up to a massive 25000 to suit the demands of all saltwater game anglers. Packed with the best Shimano features, including XShip for efficient power transmission plus HD gear and shielded ARB bearings, the Shimano Saragosa SW also features an XShield waterproof body and drag to protect it from the harsh saltwater environment. Now you can tackle the toughest species and conditions with elegance.
Shimano Saragosa SW review:
Daiwa Legalis LT
Check out the new Daiwa Legalis LT spinning reel. See how the 20’ Legalis LT Daiwa offers the highest quality standards at an incredible price-performance ratio. Daiwa once again impressively proves that silky smooth working and the highest toughness do not necessarily have to come along with great costs since the new 20’ Daiwa Legalis LT series is based on the well-established LT concept Sensational offer with LT design: Light, strong and reliable! The new 2021 Daiwa Legalis LT features Daiwa’s rigid LT body (light yet tough) constructed from a carbon-based composite that is much lighter than conventional materials.
Daiwa Legalis LT review:
Shimano Ultegra FC
The totally NEW Shimano Ultegra FC is built for anglers who are looking for a reliable spinning reel to lure fish for freshwater perch, pike, zander, or saltwater sea bass. It provides high-end features and technologies previously only seen on much more expensive reels. The traditional model has evolved significantly. Winding, casting, durability, and basic performance are totally different. These features ensure gear strength, durability, and operational performance. The new Shimano Ultegra FC is part of the Coresolid concept, which offers a unique silky reeling, which is distinctive for Shimano reels. Including the Micro Module Gear II used in Shimano.
Shimano Ultegra FC review:
The NEW Shimano Twin Power XD has been redesigned and refined in 2021 to set a new standard in saltwater durability. Now featuring exclusive Shimano reels technology upgrades such as Micro Module Gear II, MGL Rotor, and Silent Drive, the new Shimano Twin Power XD is built to be both lighter and stronger. The new Shimano Twin Power XD features the battle-tested cold-forged Hagane Gear, X-Ship, and Magnumlite Rotor. To prevent saltwater intrusion, X Protect provides Shimano’s highest degree of protection. Developed specifically for the Shimano Twin Power XD series, X Protect uses a waterproof labyrinth structure.
Shimano Twin Power XD review:
Shimano Sedona FI
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
The Shimano Sedona FI is a beautifully designed spinning reel and the lowest priced spinning reel of Shimano that features Shimano’s HAGANE Gearing. Because of the unrivaled HAGANE Gear, the angler can be confident that the reel will show tremendous durability over the years, even under extremely heavy use. At the heart of the Shimano, Sedona FI line of spinning reels is Shimano’s state-of-the-art technology, the HAGANE Gear. The incorporation of HAGANE cold-forging technology into the Shimano Sedona FI gives it a step up from other reels in its class and provides long-lasting smoothness and durability for assured resilience.
Shimano Sedona FI review:
New Daiwa Procyon AL
Not For Saltwater!
The new Daiwa Procyon AL delivers a higher level of performance. Daiwa Procyon AL spinning reel family is back for the attack, whether that means freshwater or inshore applications. From fresh to salt and everything in between, the new Daiwa Procyon AL can take on whatever you are targeting. Everything from speckled trout, redfish, and snook to bass, walleye, and trout, the Daiwa Procyon AL offers anglers the perfect reel for the pursuit. In terms of application, the Procyon AL is available in five sizes from the Daiwa Procyon AL PCNAL2000D model for freshwater fishing.
New Daiwa Procyon AL review:
Shimano SpeedMaster XTC Surf Casting
The Shimano SpeedMaster XTC Surfcasting reel is loaded with signature Shimano technologies, and the Shimano SpeedMaster XTC is a high-performance workhorse surf fishing reel built to provide surf anglers with advanced long cast capabilities at an incredible value. Shimano SpeedMaster 14000 XTC is a high-performance workhorse reel built for budget-minded surf anglers. Feature-packed with stunning looks, Shimano SpeedMaster XTC is equipped with X-Ship technology for improved gear durability and Hi-Speed Drag to put the brakes on big fish. Super Slow Oscillation ensures optimal line lay and maximum casting distance. Providing a sleek matte black cosmetic.
Shimano SpeedMaster XTC Surf Casting review:
Daiwa BG MQ
Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reels
The new Daiwa BG MQ is the strongest heavy-duty spinning reel ever built by Daiwa, and Latest BG MQ brings huge revolutionary advancements like a monocoque body to an unprecedented affordable price point. Upgrades have been made to almost all areas of design and build. Specific improvements have also been made to each reel size to maximize performance. Daiwa BG MQ is ready to battle whatever the sea can throw at you. The Daiwa BG MQ series has changed the game of what affordable quality looks like in heavy-duty spinning reels.
Daiwa BG MQ review:
New Daiwa Certate LT
Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reels
New LT 19 Technology
The New Daiwa Certate LT 2021 is packed with top-of-the-line features and the latest technologies that were previously only found in Daiwa’s more expensive flagship reels, the new Daiwa Certate LT spinning reels redefine what you can expect from spinning reels in their class. A king amongst men, Daiwa Certate has always set a standard in poise and power, and the release of the new Daiwa Certate LT elevates those traits to a new level. A level of refinement and strength is rarely achieved and seldom seen. Meticulously designed, unwavering in strength, and unmatched in performance.
New Daiwa Certate LT Review:
The New Daiwa Procyon LT spinning reel is lighter by weight yet strong and rigid in the LT Concept. The body is constructed from Zaion, a high-density carbon strain material that is 20 percent stronger and 50 percent lighter than traditional nylon and aluminum. The True Carbon Body is reduced in size and weight yet provides a rigid framework for powerful gearing. The well-balanced Air Rotor is 15 percent lighter than conventional rotors yet just as strong. The New Daiwa Procyon LT is built on Daiwa’s LT Light and Tough platform, the Daiwa Procyon LT Spinning Reels feature.
New Daiwa Procyon LT Review:
New Daiwa Luvias LT
The new Daiwa Luvias LT is a new concept in Daiwa engineering that has produced new sizes of reels that are smaller and tougher than ever. The entirely redesigned Digigear drive is reinforced. Perfectly blending two of Daiwa’s key reel technologies, Daiwa Luvias LT is born. Sophisticated, subtle, and classy, 20 Luvias LT is true to the famous name which Daiwa fans have grown to love over its long and famous history. A new single-piece Zaion Monocoque (MQ) body design is the single greatest leap for Daiwa Luvias LT since its introduction many years ago.
New Daiwa Luvias LT review:
NEW Shimano Twin Power FD
The new Shimano Twin Power FD series of reels are now available in five sizes, everything from 1000 up to 5000. The Shimano Twin Power FD is replacing our Shimano Twin Power XD line here in the US, and it’s packed with a host of flagship features. Most notably, the new micro module gear 2 feature, which is something Shimano released in the Shimano Stella FJ in 2018, they trickled it all the way down the Shimano Stradic FL as well. A couple of additional features are XProtect water resist and what that has the labyrinth construction.
NEW Shimano Twin Power FD Review:
Daiwa Saltist Back Bay LT
Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reels
Daiwa Saltist Back Bay LT sets the standard for inshore and back bay saltwater fisherman country-wide. The Daiwa Saltist Back Bay LT Reel employs our revolutionary HARDBODYZ design- utilizing an aluminum metal alloy, giving maximum strength and minimizing weight. These design features combine to create one of the lightest, strongest saltwater spinning reels on the market. The Magsealed main shaft employs a magnetic oil that repels intrusion from saltwater without compromising performance. The machined aluminum alloy DigiGear assures smooth, rugged performance with digitally milled gearing to maximize the efficiency of the gear-tooth interaction.
Daiwa Saltist Back Bay LT review:
Shimano Twin Power SW
Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels
The new Shimano Twin Power SW for 2021 is designed for the most demanding saltwater fishing actions. The upgraded Shimano Twin Power SW saltwater spinning reels fuse Shimano technology for a reel with overwhelming durability, power, and reliability to tackle any situation in any condition. Within the Shimano Twin Power SW series, anglers will uncover the Shimano HAGANE reel design concept for the ability to fight big, powerful fish with confidence. The “shape of strength” required for spinning reels for saltwater fishing is quite diverse. Rigidity and toughness that can withstand hard use, a strong waterproof performance that prevents seawater from entering.
Shimano Twin Power SW review:
Final Thought on Saltwater Spinning Reel
The best saltwater spinning reels are made from quality metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and brass, with precision-machined single-piece frames. You can choose from low-speed reels for bass and redfish, high-speed saltwater reels for game fish, and even two-speed reels to rapidly recover slackline if a big saltwater fish makes a quick turn. The best spinning reels can be found for using monofilament lines, braided lines, or both, with varying lengths and test strength capacities. As a longtime genuine fishing addict, I have the personal fishing tackle knowledge to help you select the best saltwater spinning reel right for your unique needs and budget.
Latest Shimano Reels
Incredible craftsmanship and precision are only the beginning of what Shimano saltwater fishing reels have to offer you. Shimano is a leader in fishing tackle technology development, and recent innovations such as CI4 design for lightweight durability, Hagane gears for the power to fight big game, and X-Ship for easier handle turning show they’re still at the forefront. All the Shimano saltwater reels incorporate these and many other features so you’ll always have the odds in your favor when you are out on the water.
Penn Fishing Reel Brand
Since 1932, Penn Fishing Tackle Company has been manufacturing award-winning, record-setting saltwater fishing reels for fishermen of all kinds. Founded in Pennsylvania and now headquartered in Iowa, Penn’s innovative spinning reels are field-tested by top anglers and our own experts for performance and reliability. We review the best spinning reels that fit everyone from weekend warriors to tournament champions just so they can select the best reels that suit their unique saltwater fishing needs.
View on Avet reels
When anglers want to get serious about catching fish, they count on Avet reels for a cast and retrieve that can’t be beaten. Avet saltwater spinning Reels is a leader in fishing saltwater reel design and performance. Their saltwater spinning reels are known for their smooth and powerful drag systems that give you the upper hand during a retrieve. Each Avet saltwater fishing reel is precision-machined in the U.S. using marine-grade anodized aluminum and stainless steel stock. This construction gives their best saltwater reels an unmatched combination of strength and corrosion resistance with dazzling finishes so you can fish in style, too. We review several Avet saltwater fishing reels for serious anglers, offering great performance while being easy to assemble and maintain.
My Favourite- Van Staal spinning reel
If you’re an angler who likes to push the limits on every outing – or blow past them altogether – then a Van Staal spinning reel is exactly what you need. They were first developed in the early 1990s for surf fishermen who needed a saltwater spinning reel that could weather the tough conditions they faced as they battled migrating stripers. Van Staal saltwater spinning reels combine the art of design and manufacturing into a spinning reel of uncompromising strength and simplicity.
The frame, rotor, and spool are machined from billet aluminum for unyielding strength – unlike other high-end saltwater spinning reels that are made from weak die-cast aluminum and plastic. If you want the finest and best saltwater spinning reels available today, then Van Staal saltwater spinning reels are a perfect choice. Internal parts are made from the highest grades of metals available, like stainless steel and titanium. The patented waterproof, maintenance-free drag system runs on two stainless steel ball bearings for silky smooth drag performance under the harshest conditions.
My Opinion on Popular Daiwa Fishing Reels
If you’re in the market for one or more saltwater fishing reels, Daiwa reels should definitely be on your shopping list. This company got its start making spinning reels in 1955. Since then, it has grown to become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of saltwater fishing tackle, thanks to its innovative, sturdy products. Daiwa continues to produce great spinning and other spinning reels with advanced features, like smooth, fade-free carbon drags, magnetic watertight seals, and more.
We review a big selection of Daiwa saltwater fishing reels. Choose from various spinning reels in all styles and price points to fit your budget and the sweet-water species you’re targeting. If you fish in saltwater, we list Daiwa’s best spinning reels for casting to everything from inshore game fish in the bays to large pelagic species caught offshore. You’ll find Daiwa saltwater spinning reels here for all sorts of techniques, tactics, and species. Our reviews of Daiwa spinning reels are ideal for jigging and bottom fishing.
Quantum saltwater reel
Tested in the company’s Q Lab for performance and quality, Quantum saltwater spinning reels are built to last as well as the cast. We plan to review a big selection of Quantum saltwater fishing reels that can help you catch more saltwater fish. Our Quantum saltwater fishing reels list includes great choices for chasing inshore species like redfish, snook, and speckled trout.
Okuma Spinning Reel Review
We review the best saltwater spinning reels for saltwater’s inshore denizens. Some saltwater spinning reels boast high-speed retrieves to make your lures move and trigger ferocious strikes. Based in Taiwan, Okuma has been making waves in the fishing industry since 1986. A combination of advanced materials and innovative designs makes each Okuma fishing reel a reliable fish-catcher. We will review a big selection of Okuma saltwater fishing reels that will help you get the most out of each fishing trip. You’ll see the best saltwater spinning reels here in sizes and designs to handle everything from tiny trout and petite panfish in streams and ponds to cow stripers in the suds and dolphins hiding under flotsam offshore. Okuma saltwater spinning reels include the best surfcasting spinning reels designed to stand up to the rigors of fishing from the beach.
FAQs
Q: What is the best saltwater spinning reel for the money?
Q: Can you use any spinning reel in saltwater?
What is the best saltwater spinning reel?
Q: How do saltwater spinning reels differ from freshwater reels?
A: Saltwater reels are built to withstand the harsh saltwater conditions, featuring corrosion-resistant materials and sealed components to prevent saltwater intrusion.
Q: What are some popular saltwater spinning reel brands?
A: Some popular brands include Penn, Shimano, Daiwa, Abu Garcia, and Okuma.
Q: What is the importance of the gear ratio in a saltwater spinning reel?
A: The gear ratio indicates the number of times the spool rotates per handle turn, affecting retrieval speed and power. Higher ratios provide faster retrieval, while lower ratios offer more torque for fighting larger fish.
Q: What is the significance of the ball bearing count in a spinning reel?
A: More ball bearings result in smoother reel operation, reducing friction and providing better overall performance.
Q: How do I choose the right line capacity for my saltwater spinning reel?
A: Line capacity depends on the target species and fishing conditions. Heavier and stronger lines are needed for larger fish, while lighter lines are suitable for smaller species and finesse applications.
Q: What is a sealed drag system, and why is it essential for saltwater spinning reels?
A: A sealed drag system prevents water, sand, and salt from entering the drag components, ensuring consistent performance and reducing the need for maintenance.
Q: Can I use my saltwater spinning reel for freshwater fishing?
A: Yes, saltwater spinning reels can be used for freshwater fishing, but they may be heavier and more robust than necessary for certain freshwater species.
Q: What are some common materials used in saltwater spinning reels?
A: Common materials include aluminum, stainless steel, carbon fiber, and graphite, all of which offer corrosion resistance and durability.
Q: How do I maintain my saltwater spinning reel?
A: Regular cleaning with fresh water, proper lubrication, and periodic inspection of the components will help maintain your reel’s performance.
Q: What is the purpose of a braid-ready spool?
A: A braid-ready spool has a rubber ring or line anchor that prevents braided line from slipping, eliminating the need for backing or monofilament.
Q: How does the maximum drag force impact a saltwater spinning reel’s performance?
A: Higher maximum drag force allows you to apply more pressure on larger, stronger fish, increasing your chances of landing them.
Q: What is an anti-reverse feature, and why is it important?
A: Anti-reverse prevents the handle from turning backward, ensuring solid hooksets and consistent drag pressure during the fight.
Q: What is the difference between front and rear drag systems?
A: Front drag systems on the spool typically offer higher maximum drag force. In contrast, rear drag systems are situated at the back of the reel and provide easier access for adjustments during the fight.
Q: Are all saltwater spinning reels interchangeable between left and right-hand retrieves?
A: Most saltwater spinning reels have ambidextrous designs, allowing users to reverse the handle between left and right-hand retrieves.
