It would help if you had something that is both lightweight enough to feel light strikes and robust sufficient to handle a big trout. The spinning reels are the perfect solution for a successful day on the water. However, finding the best spinning reel for trout can be challenging, so we took the time to choose to help you.
This post will go over the best spinning reel for trout list, which I believe offers the best value over the competition of all the reels we have used. We sincerely hope that the data we’ve given will help you decide wisely.
Why Do You Need The Best Spinning Reel For Trout?
Fishing with a trout spinning reel is not tricky. Regardless of your skill level, you can cast any weight of lure with a spinning reel. You’ll have everything you need to cast and reel in fish when you combine the best spinning reel with a good, lightweight trout fishing rod. After all, your time on the water should not be spent fiddling with your reel, trying to untangle the line, or figuring out how it works. Instead, it would be beneficial if you thought about employing one of these incredible reels, which will handle all the tedious work for you.
Top 10 Best Spinning Reels For Trout 2022 (Review & Buyer Guide)
We have ranked the top 10 trout spinning reels below to save you the time and effort of sifting through every available model to find the best one for you:
- Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel – Best Budget
- Abu Garcia Revo S.X.
- Shimano Stradic Ci4
- Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
- Shimano Sedona – Best Durability
- Penn Pursuit IV – Best For Surf Fishing
- Daiwa Regal LT Spinning Reel
- Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel
- KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel
- Daiwa Procyon – Best Saltwater Spinning Reel
Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel – Best Budget
Specification:
- Brand: Pflueger
- Ball Bearings: 6+1, 9+1
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 7, 10
- Weight (oz): 6.2 to 11.5
Description of the product:
The Pflueger President is a good option if you need a good spinning reel for trout and are on a tight budget. Especially this reel is also regarded as one of the best ultralight trout reels available. It is challenging to find a better lightweight spinning reel for trout fishing than this one.
The stability, strength, and flexibility of graphite are all present in this reel. In particular, it boasts an ergonomically designed soft-touch knob and aircraft-grade aluminum grip to lighten and boost comfort. Additionally, it has a 5.2:1 gear ratio, 9+1 ball bearings, and an instant anti-reverse. Besides, the slow oscillation gearing enhanced by this reel keeps your line in place and prevents twisting and tangling.
This reel has an oil-lubricated felt washer drag system with a stainless steel shaft and sealed multi-disc design. It can only hold up to 10 lbs and is constantly lubricated to prevent seizing up on you. Moreover, the handle can be changed from left to right to accommodate right – or left-handed fishermen.
However, the only drawback to this reel is that it’s not completely sealed, which can be a massive issue if you’re saltwater fishing.
Pros:
- Suitable Budget
- Extremely smooth
- A special 10-bearing system
- An unbroken drag mechanism
- long-lasting stainless steel
- Ergonomically constructed
- Lightweight
Cons:
- As it is not sealed, it is not ideal for saltwater
Abu Garcia Revo S.X Spinning Reel
Specification:
- Brand: Abu Garcia
- Ball Bearings: 8+1
- Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 10 to 17
- Weight (oz): 7.2, 7,9, 9.2
Description of the product:
If you enjoy fishing, you’re probably already familiar with Abu Garcia. Especially the Abu Garcia Revo S.X. One of the most fantastic ultralight spinning reels for trout is the spinning reel. Whether this is your first reel or just another one in your collection is an attractive choice.
This reel is made of C6, a carbon composite material, and the frame is made of X-Craft alloy. These materials reduce the reel’s overall weight while maintaining and improving its rigidity and durability. As a result, the graphite and carbon mixture used to create this reel is strong, flexible, and lightweight.
Furthermore, the drag system is a hybrid consisting of an adjustable brake system that uses magnets to reduce and eliminate backlash. Besides, this reel also has 8+1 high-quality ball bearings, including the anti-reverse K-clutch. The ball bearings work together with the Amgearing precise machine gears to produce a smooth and easy fishing experience.
In particular, the reel’s “Rocket Spool” allows the line to run freely and drag-free because it has a lip to reduce friction and allow for more precise casting. This reel also has a flat E.V.A. knob, a 6.2:1 gear ratio, and an interchangeable handle that can be moved from side to side. The only disadvantage of this reel is its exorbitant price.
Pros:
- For casting, it has a dynamic Rocket Spool Lip
- Drag system with a carbon matrix
- Constructed entirely of aluminum
- 8+1 high-quality ball bearings
Cons:
- Exorbitant price
Shimano Stradic Ci4
Specification:
- Brand: SHIMANO
- Ball Bearings: 6+1
- Gear Ratio: 6.0:1, 6.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 7 to 20
- Weight (oz): 5.6 to 6.7
Description of the product:
If money were no object, the Shimano Stradic CI4+ would be our first choice. Especially when it comes to lightness, this reel is unrivaled and can handle a wide variety of trout. Shimano made every effort to consider every detail when designing this reel. Shimano’s carbon-infused technology made the reel 1.5 times stronger and 20% lighter than regular graphite.
Additionally, it has a Magnum Light rotor, enabling it to be lightweight since this reel only weighs 6.7 oz. The level of accuracy and smoothness that this reel enjoys is increased significantly by these two systems. Other technological features of this reel include the Hegane Body and X-ship, which cooperate to make the internal gears as noiseless as possible.
Moreover, this reel benefits from the CoreProtectx360° water-resistant system, which increases its resistance to the elements. It also has a gear ratio of 6.0:1 and a maximum drag of 20 lbs, providing anglers with consistently smooth fishing. The Shimano Stradic Ci4 reel is relatively smooth since it has 6+1 ball bearings. Another exciting feature of this reel is that it is pretty versatile, as it can be used for both trout and fish much more significantly than trout.
Although this reel has a power roller that keeps a straight line, it lacks an anti-reverse system. Furthermore, the cost may be prohibitively expensive for many people.
Pros:
- Outstanding durability
- Lightweight construction
- Internal gearing
- Waterproof drag housing
Cons:
- No anti-reverse mechanism
Okuma Helios – Lightweight Spinning Reel
Specification:
- Brand: OKUMA
- Ball Bearings: 8+1
- Gear Ratio: 5.0:1, 5.8:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 6, 13
- Weight (oz): 6.2, 7.0, 9.1
Description of the product:
The Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel is a capable little reel, priced in the same mid-range range as the Abu Garcia above.
This reel is entirely made of a carbon/graphite blend, allowing for lightweight, strength, and durability, and it weighs just 9.7 oz. All of these characteristics contribute to its efficiency. It also has 8+1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings that provide excellent performance.
The rotor is a Cyclonic Flow Rotor, ensuring no water enters the reel. Furthermore, it keeps the line from tangling along with the gearing system, which is precision elliptical. Especially this reel has a 5.0:1 gear ratio and a maximum drag of 13 pounds.
Moreover, the Torsion Control Armor ensures the overall stability of the reel, particularly the gear system. This system stabilizes the spool and keeps it from wobbling. Finally, the handle is a soft E.V.A. machined anodized aluminum handle that is both lightweight and ergonomically designed.
There has just been one complaint about this reel: the Centrifugal Disc Bail bail was a little sticky.
Pros:
- Ten stainless steel bearings
- Corrosion-resistant
- The carbonite drag system lowers friction
- Ergonomic design
Cons:
- Not completely sealed to keep saltwater out
Shimano Sedona – Best Durability
Specification:
- Brand: SHIMANO
- Ball Bearings: 3+1
- Gear Ratio: 4.6:1, 5.0:1, 5.6:1, 6.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 7 to 24
- Weight (oz): 6.3 to 21.7
Description of the product:
The Shimano Sedona is a little more expensive than the President, the cheapest reel in this lineup, but it is excellent value for money. If you prefer to stick with one of the most well-known reel manufacturers, Shimano will rarely let you down.
This reel features Hegane internal gears, which provide fishermen with an extremely smooth experience. To further postpone the onset of fatigue, it has a G-free body design that shifts attention away from your hand. It weighs 7.6 pounds and features a 5.0:1 gear ratio, a maximum drag of 7 pounds, and 3+1 ball bearings. The Sedona is also available in a high-gear model across the entire size range if you need a faster retrieve rate.
The oval oscillation gear keeps your line moving at a constant speed, preventing it from tangling and breaking. It also has propulsion line management, allowing anglers to cast farther and more comprehensively. With a specifically crafted lip, the double anodized machine cut spool on this reel helps reduce backlash.
Pros:
- Drag capacity
- Lightweight
- Durability
- Spacious spool
- Anti-reverse
Cons:
- Only four bearings
Penn Pursuit IV – Best For Surf Fishing
Specification:
- Brand: PENN
- Ball Bearings: 4+1
- Gear Ratio: 4.7:1, 6.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 10 to 25
- Weight (oz): 9.8 to 29.1
Description of the product:
There are no other trout spinning reels with larger reel sizes available. The large reel sizes of the Penn Pursuit IV make it the preferred choice for surf fishing.
This combination combines the Pursuit IV spinning reel with a graphite composite rod for a sturdy fish-taming setup. The Penn Pursuit IV is built to last and has the smooth gear system anglers expect from the Penn. This particular reel features an ultra-lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite body and a powerful HT-100TM drag system making the Pursuit IV an excellent value for money for saltwater anglers. The four sealed stainless steel ball bearings guarantee a smooth retrieve, and the Instant Anti-Reverse bearing eliminates even the slightest amount of rotor backlash.
The Pursuit IV reel is available in six sizes ranging from 2500 to 8000 and is suitable for most fisheries. Furthermore, the Instant Anti-Reverse bearing eliminates even the smallest rotor back play for consistent hook-ups.
Pros:
- Large size
- Best choice for surf fishing
- ultra-lightweight
- corrosion-resistant
- Suitable for most anglers
Cons:
- High price
Daiwa Regal LT Spinning Reel
Specification:
- Brand: Daiwa
- Ball Bearings: 9+1
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 11, 22
- Weight (oz): 6.7, 7.4, 7.6
Description of the product:
The Daiwa Regal LT Spinning Reel is a lightweight, low-cost reel that can handle any trout. This reel is equipped with everything you need to exit the water and may be applied to different approaches. It is also extremely smooth and has an excellent gear ratio.
Its lightweight can be attributed to its Air Rotor System (A.R.S.) and material. Daiwa’s A.R.S. technology makes their air rotors 15% lighter than standard air rotors of the same material. Furthermore, the spool is carbon fiber, the most lightweight material. Only two other reels are slightly lighter than this, and both cost more than twice as much.
Even massive trout will not be a problem for its Drag. Even monster trout can be caught with a drag weight of 20 pounds. With a maximum drag weight of 22 pounds, you can fish confidently, regardless of the size of the trout on your hook. To top it all off, it provides next-level smoothness thanks to its 9+1 ball bearings and a desirable gear ratio of 5:1.
Pros:
- The reel’s weight has been reduced
- Robust and highly smooth DragDrag
- Great casting ability
- Braid and fluorocarbon
Cons:
- Mild line tangling has caused problems for some anglers
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel
Specification:
- Brand: Okuma
- Ball Bearings: 6+1, 7+1
- Gear Ratio: 4.8:1, 5.0:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 5 to 22
- Weight (oz): 6.0 to 20.7
Description of the product:
If you thought the Daiwa Regal LT was a little too pricey, here’s another option. In every way, the Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel falls short. This includes things like weight, smoothness, and Drag. However, Unlike the Daiwa Regal LT, which can handle even the biggest trout, the Okuma Ceymar can only hold large trout. Except for the biggest of the giant trout, it’ll be able to take on anything.
Ceymar’s build quality is excellent. Especially the finish is bright, and the underlying graphite frame provides good rigidity. The Ceymar, which has six ball bearings and one roller bearing, is remarkably smooth, considering its low price. All of this contributes to the reel outperforming its price.
Furthermore, the Ceymar includes brass pinion gear, so it’s much better than the typical Zinc Alloy gearing in this price range. Because brass is a more brutal metal, it should last longer. Most budget reels, including those from Shimano and Daiwa, only use Zinc Alloy gearing. The Shimano FX, Sienna, and Daiwa Crossfire feel much heavier than the Ceymar, used primarily with ultralight trout rods.
The Ceymar spinning reel from Okuma is among the best, if not the best, affordable spinning reels.
Pros:
- A cheap pricing range
- No matter your ability level, it is simple to utilize
- Due to the ball bearing arrangement, the cast is smooth
- Multi-disk drag system usage
- Robust parts that assist in preventing rusting
Cons:
- When reeling the line in by hand, you might feel the flex
KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel
Specification:
- Brand: KastKing
- Ball Bearings: 10+1
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 33.0, 39.5
- Weight (oz): 7.4 to 10.6
Description of the product:
KastKing’s reel is designed to work anywhere and everywhere. It’s reinforced graphite, giving anglers flexibility, lightness, and strength. In particular, it only weighs 9.2 oz.
Moreover, It is sealed by the KastK Intrusion Shield System, or the K.I.S.S. system completely seals it. This seal protects the reel from water, sand, debris, and anything else that could cause the reel to seize up on you. Besides, this reel has a 5.2:1 gear ratio and 10+1 ball bearings, contributing to smooth casts and retrievals.
The drag system on this reel, which has a maximum weight of 33 pounds, is one of its most appealing features. It is constructed entirely of triple-disc carbon fiber.
However, some people have discovered that the reel is much more comfortable for left-handed fishermen. In contrast, right-handed fishermen have had less luck. Other anglers have complained about loud cranking and binding sounds. Finally, others assert that it is not durable and that deterioration will occur rapidly.
Pros:
- Affordable
- High-quality materials
- Outstanding DragDrag
- Available in a variety of sizes
- Works with both fresh and saltwater
Cons:
- Better suited to left-handed people
Daiwa Procyon – Best Saltwater Spinning Reel
Specification:
- Brand: Daiwa
- Ball Bearings: 6+1
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 6.2:1
- Max Drag (lbs): 11 to 26.4
- Weight (oz): 7.8 to 9.7
Specification of the product:
When you hook into a trophy trout, you need a reel with a robust drag system and plenty of line capacity. The Daiwa Procyon AL is the ideal reel for withstanding the abuse these fish can inflict on your gear.
Especially the first concern in saltwater fishing is how well your reel will withstand the elements. Salt, wind, and sand can quickly ruin a great reel. The Procyon AL addresses this issue with an all-aluminum frame that increases rigidity and prevents salt corrosion. After a day on the water, I just run the hose over it because I know it will be ready the next time I take it out.
Furthermore, the drag system on this reel makes it an actual saltwater machine. It has 22 lbs of max-drag in the 3000 size to withstand the blistering runs of gator trout. The Advanced Tournament Drag system is perhaps the most impressive feature. The DragDrag tightens when a giant fish is hooked, ensuring that the hook is inserted deeply into the mouth of the fish. Once the fish starts running, the Drag loosens to where you set it.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminum
- Corrosion-resistant
- Drag is extremely smooth
- When fighting larger fish, the stiff arm does not flex
Cons:
- Wind knots on the water are a problem
F.A.Q.s About The Best Spinning Reel For Trout
Things To Consider Before Buying Trout Reel
There are many spinning reel options on the market, including numerous ultralight reels. You can tell the gimmicks from the good reels if you look closely. A decent reel must be durable, light, and equipped with a smooth drag system. Remember these factors the next time you go shopping for a trout reel.
Size
This is one of the most crucial choices for trout fishing reels. Most trout anglers use ultralight rods that are six feet or less in length. Finding a reel in the 500-1000 size range to pair with an ultralight rod is an excellent place to start. Because these reels are small, the combo is easy and comfortable to cast all day.
Drag
The Drag is surprisingly more important than you might think when it comes to trout. Traditional thinking leads people to believe that the essential factor to look for is max-drag. When it comes to trout fishing, the total pounds of DragDrag aren’t as crucial as how smooth the drag system is.
A good drag should begin immediately and continue to be smooth throughout the fight. To engage the Drag, turn the spool while holding the reel. If it starts immediately, the DragDrag is ready to go.
Weight
Like reel size, weight is essential in selecting the right reel. Even small reels are overbuilt and made of heavy materials. You can avoid this entirely if you use a lightweight reel. As a rule of thumb, I like to put the reel on the rod and balance it on my index finger. If the combo balances near the front of the cork grip, you’re good to go.
Use
Trout come in all shapes and sizes, so different reels may be required for different situations. An ultralight setup is ideal for targeting stocked fish on opening day. If lake run fishing is your style, these ultralight reels are underfunded. A chromed-up steelhead will eat an ultralight reel in seconds, leaving you wondering what happened. Consider what you’ll need from your reel, and you’ll catch more fish.
Read more at: Trolling Rigs For Lake Trout You Need To Know
How should a spinning reel for trout be sized?
Spinning reel sizes vary greatly, but a 500 or 1000 size for trout is usually best. Because these reels are lightweight and small, they work well with shorter ultralight rods. However, sizing varies by company, with some companies sizing their reels in 500 and 1000 sizes, while others are sizing them in 50 and 100 sizes for the same size reels. I believe checking the reel in person is preferable, and if possible, bringing the rod you plan to use to ensure it is appropriately balanced.
What Is The Best Material For A Trout Spinning Reel’s Frame?
Trout reels differ in frame material and function. Other lightweight reel frames, such as graphite, are excellent for trout. They are not as strong as aluminum frames, but comfort is more important when casting all day. Full carbon frames, such as the Shimano Vanford, offer the best of both worlds. Just keep in mind that one will set you back a pretty penny.
Spinning Reels Or Baitcasting Reels: Which Is Better For Trout Fishing?
While baitcasting reels are versatile, they are not designed to throw the light lures required for trout fishing. Unlike spinning reels, they include an inbuilt braking system that functions better with larger lures. When you cast a spinning reel, the weight of the lure pulls the line off the spool. Light lures can be thrown surprisingly far with a light line. Spinning reels also allow you to keep the bail open while drifting live baits to wait for trout.
Conclusion
A terrific way to enjoy time on the lake and catch some fish is to go trout fishing. You don’t need a fancy boat to get there, and the tackle is minimal. Selecting the best spinning reel for your time on the water is critical. Finding a good reel is simple if you consider your budget, desired size, and construction. Our best spinning reel for trout covers a wide range of price points, but they all have great features that keep you focused on catching fish.
