Which Spinning Reel Should I Buy

[edfitzvb]

First let me state that I was reluctant to open this thread, because I know the old saying about opinions, but I need some input here from people who know what they're talking about. I started out fishing on the old Garcia Mitchell 300 reels back in the '60's. About 30 years or so ago I started to use bait casting reels, and now use mostly bait casting tackle. I really like Lew's products and Shimano. I want to update my spinning tackle, and my next purchase will be a spinning reel. Right now I have some economical reels to choose from. I have a Quantum Qvex, a Mitchell 300X, and an older Lew's spinning reel. I am looking at Shimano and Lew's because I like the quality control they have in place. There are a wide range of options to choose from and I want the best bang for my buck at around 80-150 price range. What models should I be on the lookout for that will be good choices for functionality and durability? I will be using this reel for bass fishing (surprise.)

Thank you in advance for sharing your experience with me.

[the reel ess]

I went to Cabela's looking for a decent spinning reel and bought the Pfleuger Trion. I've been fishing with it since late winter. It has whipped a couple over 5#. It's smooth and well-balanced. The drag is smooth as butter and it doesn't seem to twist much, if any. I use 17# braid on it. I feel like it's the exact same reel as the next one up the line without the lightweight parts. For $40 I've been very impressed. I will have another when I wear out another BPS reel. I bought the 40 size. I think I'd recommend the 30 for all around bass fishing.

[Crestliner2008]

I have several Shimanos and ABU Cardinals and also a Pflueger President and a Trion as well. The Pfluegers - in my opinion only mind you - are the best bang for the buck on the market today. I prefer the President over the Trion only because it "feels" slightly smoother and has more bearings to support the drive. Shimanos are quality reels, but they've jumped significantly in price as of late and I don't think they're as value added any more.

[SirSnookalot]

I've been looking for a new cuda reel, as long as I was there I was checking freshwater reels too.  I was most impressed with Pfluegers, Cardinals and Mitchells, I found them to be smoother than some other brands in the same price range or even more money.  I have history of near perfect performance with both Plueger and Abu.  I honestly don't feel my drags are overly tested for freshwater fishing, the environment is much friendlier as well, durability has been good.

 

Shimano gets a lot of play here, only 1 Shimano I would consider, a stradic.  Anything more is passing the diminishing return of investment IMO, any thing less is inferior to some of the other brands in their respective price range, again my opinion.  Stradic is a fine reel, for me is overkill for freshwater.

[iceintheveins]

Go with the Pflueger President and save the money. It really is foolproof.

[jbw252]

I also suggest Pflueger spinning reels.  I have a President 6735, a Supreme 9025XT, and a Supreme 8025MG.  They're a great bang for your hard earned bucks.  I tend to use the President the most - smooth & strong.  No problems so far.  Since you state that you like Shimano, take a look at the Daiwa Lexa 2000.  The Lexa can be purchased online for around $100, within your posted budget. Good luck on your reel quest.  Let us know what you finally decide on.

[livemusic]

I bought at Pfleuger President 6940, they can be had on Ebay for $53. On this forum, somebody said the 6940 isn't necessary, that down to a 6930 is better, it's lighter and plenty strong. Might pick one of those up but I am looking at other models, too. I note that Lew's makes one for $40, I started a thread about it.

 

I like my President just fine. I am fishing Superline 20 lb on it, have it matched to a Berkley Lightning Rod Shock rod, which is only $40 at Walmart. I'm also looking at other rods, but I like the Shock.

[DaleGribble]

My vote is for Pflueger Supreme. They are super smooth and have a great drag. Can't be beat for $100

[Raul]

I really like my Shimanos but when it comes to spinning reels my first choice would be a 2000 size Daiwa.

[SirSnookalot]

I'm in a quandary myself over my next reel after losing my combo in the water last week.  I loved my Pflueger arbor 50, it's discontinued and can't find it any where.  I'm using my spheros 4000 until I decide which will work just fine. When ya buy a new rod ya just gotta have a new reel, right?

I have it pretty well whittled down to reels, a Pflueger arbor 40 (11.2 oz,18 drag, 29.7 IPT, 8/195 yds) and Daiwa lexa 3500 (12.2 oz, 17.6 drag, 41 IPT, 10/240).  No question in my mind either will be fine and probably more anal than I need to be, the reel will be a dedicated only for barracuda.  Do I want a reel that only weighs 11.2 but the other specs are good, or do I want a reel with a lot line capacity and 41 IPT.  My gut says arbor, my curisoty says lexa, or just stay with my spheros for free.............lol.

[skeletor6]

I'd lean towards the top of your range and get a Shimano Stradic. I never regret buying quality gear.

[Missourifishin]

Pfleuger

[fishballer06]

In my opinion, Shimano has great spinning reels at every price point. If I were you, I would look at the Saros. If you want to save a little bit, the Symetre is another solid reel. 

 

Or if you can get lucky and get a Daiwa Ballistic on sale, those are also great reels, but they retail for $200. 

[WPCfishing]

My vote is for Pflueger Supreme. They are super smooth and have a great drag. Can't be beat for $100

Nice looking reel.