Bass are one of the most widely available fish in North America and can be found in many different types of lakes, ponds, streams and other bodies of water throughout both the US and Canada. This makes them extremely accessible, and is one of the reasons why bass fishing is so popular.
With that being said, to be able to fish for bass successfully it’s not just about the quality of your rod or technique, but also the reel you use. After all, if you decide to use the wrong reel, it could negatively impact your bass catching ability and could even cause you to give up bass fishing altogether.
If you’re a seasoned pro, then this best bass fishing reels guide probably won’t do much for you as you likely have the proper reel (or reels) already. However, for those who are just starting out or for those who are looking to upgrade their existing rig, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of some of the best fishing reels on the market today. Let’s dive into them all below:
Top 7 Best Bass Fishing Reels
1. Shimano Spirex FG
If you are looking for the classic Shimano quality but at a more affordable price look no further than the Spirex FG. It offers many of the same features as its pricier Shimano siblings including the braid ready aluminum spool which can handle up to 30 pound line.
Coming in at 8.8 ounces it might be a little more than preferred but the other features make up for it. The Spirex FG offers strength with its graphite frame, rotor, and sideplate. The line management system improves casting accuracy with the one handed Quikfire II system. The Varispeed Oscillation and Fluid Drive ensure that bringing in the line is smooth and fast every time.
For a long fishing trip the Shimano Spirex FG is designed with comfort in mind. It has an unconventional double padded handle more commonly found on baitcasters but a great feature to have. This option includes everything you would expect at the price point but offers a little bit extra.
2. Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Reel
The Pflueger Supreme XT spinning reel comes in at under $100 making it an affordable option for any fisher looking for value and quality.
They offer this reel in four different models so you are sure to find one to suit your needs. It also works with a variety of tackle and styles of fishing. The price doesn’t exclude the quality design you need and comes with EVA knobs and a solid aluminum bail wire. The lightweight carbon handle offers ergonomic comfort for long fishing days.Â
It is important to note this reel is durable but also lightweight. It comes with a magnesium body, frame, and side plate. The carbon fiber system is sealed making it an option for saltwater fishing as well. It also includes a carbon inlay drag design.
3. Abu Garcia Revo SX
Abu Garcia hits our list of the best bass fishing reels again with the Revo SX, this time in the form of a spin caster. They really hit the nail on the head for any angler looking to bring in the biggest fish repeatedly. This is the only reel you need to have constant fishing success and the quality will last a lifetime of fishing.
An important feature to note in the Abu Garcia Revo SX is the Rocket Spool Lip and Everlast Bail. This is designed for increased casting range and helps the 200 yard line capacity to lay flat every time. This top of the line line management system is in addition to the zero flex body and near weightlessness it provides.
The durability in this spool comes from the aluminum braid ready spool, one piece aluminum gear box, and insert molded carbon body.
Anglers understand the importance of drag in a fishing reel and the Revo SX delivers finesse while also providing the power you might need. You won’t experience any broken lines or hesitation whether using a near weightless worm or fighting a large bass from a long distance.
4. Shimano Stradic CI4
The Shimano Stradic has always been a hot seller for this leader in the fishing reel market. As a trusted manufacturer among anglers they created the new CI model which features their reinforced carbon material (Carbon Infusion). This material allows for strength but comes in at 25% lighter than competitor versions. The CI helps to make this a durable and impressive bass fishing reel.
The design that Shimano came up with lacks the many traditionally metal components meaning less chance for rust and corrosion.
Another innovation that this reel features is X-Ship gear. It provides support at both ends. This means that under a lot of strain the gears will remain aligned leading to less damage and improved performance.
The Shimano CI4 includes some other important features. It allows for both mono and braided line and includes a very high line capacity. The fishing action will be very smooth thanks to the Paladin Gear system. It combines hardened brass pinion gear and cold forged aluminum drive gear.
You can always depend on Shimano to make some of the best bass fishing reels available and this version is no exception. The design features lead to less fatigue since it is so light and the finesse you need to catch a big one.
5. Abu Garcia Revo SX & Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0
Abu Garcia makes our list again with this high quality rod and reel combination. Unlike other inexpensive rod and reel combos you can expect a high quality reel and a high quality rod. It comes in a wide variety of options such as reel size, rod length, action, and power.
The Revo SX reel is mentioned on this list already but pairing it with the Johnny Morris CarbonLite will make sure you are ready to tackle all of your fishing adventures.
The rod is durable and sensitive and includes Fuji Fazlite guides, and an RT4 graphite blank.
Made with the bass fisherman in mind this combination gives you durability and reliability at an affordable price without sacrificing quality.
6. Penn Battle II
Created for both bass fisherman and saltwater anglers the Penn Battle II outperforms others that have much higher price tags. This brand is most known for saltwater fishing but all of those features are valuable in bass fishing as well. This reel is offered in 8 sizes and includes the option to be used by right and left handed fishers.
The Penn Battle II offers great durability in its all metal body. It requires less maintenance and better gear alignment. Backing is eliminated because even with braided line the rubber gasket on the spool prevents the line from slipping. Penn Grease adds to the long life.
7. Abu Garcia Revo Premier Spinning Reel
The Revo Premier is the best spinning reel available to the serious fisherman looking to make a solid investment. While pricier than the Revo SX the Premier is a top of the line option.
Made from a IM-C6 rigid carbon body, computer-optimized AMGearing system, and C6 carbon rotor, Abu Garcia has developed a precision reel that is incredibly durable.
All of these features make it a solid fishing reel but don’t miss the improved casting range it provides. With the ability to use any line you prefer on this reel (mono, braided, or fluorocarbon) the included Rocket Lip Spool and Rocket Line Management System help the line to spool off the reel smoothly and effortlessly for that extra distance.
The Revo Premier also features a braid ready machined aluminum spool, aircraft grade aluminum shaft, and 11+1 gear system making this reel a do not miss.
