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Ultralight fishing involves using light tackle to catch fish. It is a great way to get started at fishing or to kill some time. You won’t pull any monster out. But, the experience will be equally exciting as the fish and gear are on the same level.
Choosing the right ultralight spinning reel is no different from picking any piece of tackle. You have to take some time to search for options.
Then, pick the one that best suits your needs. Fortunately for you, we’ve taken the time to review some of the best ultralight spinning reels on the market. Here you have them.
Quick Comparison
| Gear ratio | Weight (ounces) | Size | Drag (pounds) | IPT | |
| Piscifun Flame | 5.2:1 | 8.5 | 2000 | 13.2 | 25.2 |
| SHIMANO Stradic FL | 6.0:1 | 6.5 and 9.9 | 1000 and 2500 | 7 and 20 | 30 and 35 |
| Okuma Helios | 5.0:1 | 6.2 and 7.0 | 2000 and 3000 | 6 and 13 | 24.7 and 27.8 |
| KastKing Brutus | 5.0:1 | 7.6 and 9.2 | 2000 and 3000 | 12 and 13 | 21.3 and 22.4 |
| KastKing Summer and Centro | 5.2:1 | 6.9 and 8.6 | 500 and 200 | 11 and 12 | 19.7 and 24.4 |
| Caden Elate | 5.2 and 6.2:1 | 6.9 and 8.4 | 1000 and 2000 | 11 and 16 | 25 and 32 |
| Abu Garcia Revo SX | 6.2:1 | 7.2 and 7.9 | 1000 and 2000 | 10 and 11 | 25.2 and 28.7 |
| Cadence CS5 Pro | 5.2:1 | 6.7 | 1000 | 29 | 25 |
| Piscifun Viper X | 5.2:1 | 5.4 and 6.0 | 500 and 1000 | 8.8 and 22 | 20.1 and 22.4 |
| PLUSSINO lightweight | 5.2:1 | 8.5 | 2000 | 12 | 24.4 |
Our Reviews: The 10 Best Ultralight Spinning Reels
In this section, we will be reviewing 10 of the top ultralight spinning reels that are perfect for anglers. We’ve carefully selected these reels based on their features, performance, and customer satisfaction. Join us as we take a closer look at each of these reels and find the perfect one for your next fishing trip.
Piscifun Flame: Best Ultralight Spinning Reel Under 50
- 【Lightweight and Portable】Weighing only 6.1oz,...
- 【Powerful Performance】With an incredible drag...
- 【Stylish Design】The Flame spinning fishing...
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 13.2
- Available sizes: 2000
- 9+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 8.5
- Gear ratio: 5.2:1
- IPT: 25.2
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 400
The Piscifun Flame is an entry-level ultralight spinning reel. It comes at an affordable price. Plus, it packs several features that make it a good deal for the money. Beginners will be the ones who benefit the most from its purchase.
The graphite body and aluminum handle keep the weight down without compromising power too much. Prove of that is the 19.8 pounds of drag that 5000 reel size offers.
The braid-ready spool features aluminum construction. It is large enough to accommodate up to 400 yards of line, depending on the type and weight. Plus, the fast IPT of all sizes ensures a fast line retrieve. Great for working spinnerbaits and similar lures.
Pros:
- Braid-ready spool
- Superb drag power for the price
- Decent line capacity with a fast retrieve
- Fairly smooth operation
Cons:
- Although Piscifun advertises the 4000 and 5000 as ultralight saltwater spinning reels, we don’t believe that neither could handle the strain.
- Uneven drag operation
SHIMANO Stradic FL
- STRADIC 2500FL HG STRADIC-US
Features:
- Metallic frame
- Carbon drag washers
- Maximum drag (pounds): 7 and 20
- Available sizes: 1000 and 2500
- 6+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 6.5 and 9.9
- Gear ratio: 6.0:1
- IPT: 30 and 35
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 270
The SHIMANO Stradic line of reels is legendary. The FL model proves that fact. The main drawback, however, is its price.
But there is more to its reel that meets the eye. First, the metallic body increases overall strength. You won’t notice any flex regardless of the load. Still, the Stradic FL is pleasantly light. The smallest models (1000 and 2500) weigh less than 8 ounces.
SHIMANO didn’t leave anything at chance. They packed an excellent carbon drag system, double-shielded ball bearings, Hagane gear, and water protection. What else do you need?
The SHIMANO Stardic ultralight spinning reels work flawlessly with light lures since the center of gravity is close to the rod.
Pros:
- Ideal for casting light lures
- Saltwater resistant
- Remarkably light
- Smooth drag system
- Large handle
Cons:
- Not the best option for deep-diving lures
Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
- Extremely Light Weight C-40X Carbon Frame, Side...
- Quick-Set Anti-Reverse Roller Bearing
- Machined Aluminum 2-Ton Anodized Spool
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 6 and 13
- Available sizes: 2000 and 3000
- 8+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 6.2 and 7.0
- Gear ratio: 5.0:1
- IPT: 24.7 and 27.8
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 240
The Okuma Helios is another option if you are looking to stay near the 100 dollars line. It features a light graphite frame and side plates with an aluminum spool.
Although it looks like any other spinning reel, it has some distinctive features. In the first place, it has a cyclonic flow rotor. Apparently, if water gets inside, it gets automatically purged with the spool movements. In other words, the Okuma Helios dries faster than other reels with regular rotors.
Inside you have an aluminum main gear and a brass pinion gear. Plus nine stainless steel ball bearings! Hence, you can use the Okuma Helios for fresh and saltwater alike.
Pros:
- Self-draining reel
- Strong frame
- Smooth drag washers
- Corrosion-resistant
- Oversized gears reduce play
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- Not fully sealed; sand can get inside it
- It is difficult to close the bail after a cast
KastKing Brutus 2000 and 3000 Spinning Reels
- Exceptional Performance – The new KastKing...
- Lightweight Graphite Frame and Rotor – The...
- Angler Proven Components –Brutus reels feature a...
Features:
- Graphite frame and handle
- Maximum drag (pounds): 12 and 13
- Available sizes: 2000 and 3000
- 4+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 7.6 and 9.2
- Gear ratio:5.0:1
- IPT: 21.3 and 22.4
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 400
Are you looking for an ultralight spinning reel for under 50 dollars? If so, make sure to check the KastKing Brutus.
Before we begin, keep in mind the price tag. You can ask too much from a reel that retails for around 25 dollars. Externally you get a graphite reel and handle with an aluminum spool. It has an impressive capacity, by the way.
A set of carbon drag washers delivers up to 13 pounds of fish-stopping power. It is a little overkill for small fish. But it is a nice thing to have.
The KastKing Brutus features a zinc alloy main gear and brass pinion gear. They work ok, nothing fancy. The same goes for the stainless steel bearings. Beware that they are not shielded. Keep it away from the sand!
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners
- Great line capacity
- Enough drag for small to medium-sized fish
Cons:
- The bail sometimes gets stuck
- The plastic knob comes loose after some time
- Uneven retrieve
KastKing Summer and Centro
- Ultra Smooth Powerful - KastKing Centron spinning...
- Premium Quality Inner Parts - Centron's 9 quality...
- Two Color Options - KastKing Centron Spinning Reel...
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 11 and 12
- Available sizes: 500 and 2000
- 9+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 6.9 and 8.6
- Gear ratio: 5.2:1
- IPT: 19.7 and 24.4
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 260
The Summer and Centron are other bestsellers, especially among beginners. You get a lot of value for so little. But you will certainly miss top-notch as you gain experience.
The high-tensile graphite body keeps the weight down. However, the larger versions (4000 and 5000) are heavier than similar metallic reels. Here, we are just considering the smaller models as ultralight spinning reels.
The stainless steel and woolen drag washers yield up to 12 pounds of stopping power. It is more than enough to fish for small fish like crappie. Make peace with the fact that the drag is not that smooth.
The line sits on a CNC aluminum spool. It is not corrosion-resistant. Thus, don’t use either model for saltwater fishing.
Pros:
- Great value for the money
- Enough cranking power for small fish
- Braid-ready spool
Cons:
- The gears are prone to get rust
- The bail is quite stiff
- Inconsistent reeling
Cadence Elate
- Smooth Performance– The Elate spinning reel has...
- Lightweight – The Elate reel features a...
- Strong & Reliable– The stainless-steel main...
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 11 and 16
- Available sizes: 1000 and 2000
- 10+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 6.9 and 8.4
- Gear ratio: 5.2 and 6.2:1
- IPT: 25 to 32
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 165
The Cadence Elate is more than just looks. It has a long-lasting construction and performs well regardless of water type. Do you want to know the best thing? It retails for 50 bucks!
For one single Grant, you will get a feather-like graphite reel. The rotor, which also has a carbon fiber construction, moves a double anodized aluminum spool. It doesn’t have the most impressive capacity. But it is more than fine for small to medium-sized fish like bass, panfish, and crappie. Plus, it is braid-ready.
The felt/carbon composite drag washers deliver plenty of power. The 1000 model, for instance, has an 11-pound drag. Again, more than enough for small fish.
Pros:
- Light frame
- Fast IPT
- Ideal for working light lures
- Decent drag
- Marine-proof
Cons:
- Although it has 10+1 bearings, the reel is not smooth
- Uneven line wrapping on the spool
Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: The Abu Garcia Revo SX...
- RECOVERY RATE: Recover 30” | 76cm of line for...
- 9 TOTAL BEARINGS: 8 stainless steel HPCR bearings...
Features:
- IMC6 carbon fiber frame
- Machined aluminum spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 10 and 11
- Available sizes: 10 and 20
- 8+1 stainless steel bearings
- Weight (ounces): 7.2 and 7.9
- Gear ratio: 6.2:1
- IPT: 25.2 to 28.7
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 180
If you fancy top-notch spinning reels, make sure to check Abu Garcia’s Revo SX. It is, hands down, one of the best ultralight fishing reels you can find today.
It features an IMC5 carbon fiber body with a lightweight graphite rotor. As a result, even the largest models are pleasantly light. Hence, you can still use them for your ultralight spinning setup.
The machined aluminum spool is braid-ready. The line management system and proprietary lip design guarantee an even line distribution and smooth transition.
On the inside, you get a sturdy set of carbon drag washers capable of delivering up to 18.7 pounds of stopping power. Depending on the model, of course. Computer-designed gears, eight stainless steel ball bearings, and stainless steel main shaft promise a smooth operation.
Pros:
- The tailor-made gears reduce play
- Comfortable handle
- Smooth spool operation
- Quick anti-reverse
Cons:
- Although it is smooth, it is bested by other reels of similar price.
- It is quite hard to close the bail after casting
Cadence CS5 Pro
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 29
- Available sizes: 1000
- 8+1 stainless steel bearings
- Weight (ounces): 6.7
- Gear ratio:5.2:1
- IPT: 25
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 175
Here you have a strong candidate for the best ultralight spinning reel under 100 bucks. Let’s break the CS5 1000 down.
Thanks to its carbon frame, it only weighs 6.7 ounces. But it offers up to 29 pounds of drag, more than enough power for any fish that you happen to hook. Corrosion resistance is another advantage of having a graphite reel.
The internal components consist of an aluminum pinion gear, stainless steel main shaft, and eight steel ball bearings. All of them are resistant to corrosion. You can use the CS5 for any freshwater fish and small saltwater fish like redfish and speckled trout.
Pros:
- Braid-ready aluminum spool
- Powerful drag
- Saltwater resistant
Cons:
- A little noise
- There is some noticeable play
Piscifun Viper X Ultralight Spinning Reel
- 【Powerful Performance】With a reinforced...
- 【Smooth and Consistent】Equipped with double...
- 【Lighter & Stronger】Based on high quality...
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Maximum drag (pounds): 8.8 and 22
- Available sizes: 500 and 1000
- 10+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 5.4 and 6.0
- Gear ratio: 5.2:1
- IPT: 20.1 and 22.4
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 150
The Viper X is another option for the budget-conscious angler. It retails for around 40 bucks and packs some features that beginners will love.
Starting with the light graphite frame and rotor with CNC machined aluminum spool. The reel is braid-ready. Thus, no need for monofilament backing. You can wrap up to 150 yards of line, depending on weight. Still, it is sufficient for ultralight spinning setups.
Inside the reel, we find ten double-shielded ball bearings, anti-corrosion zinc alloy drive gear, stainless steel main shaft, and multi-disk carbon drag washers. The drag system, as well as the bearings, are water-tight. Hence, decreasing the chances for the reel to get corroded.
Pros:
- Great value for your money
- Smooth and consistent drag
- Decent casting distance
Cons:
- Retrieve is not as smooth as casting
- Imprecise drag dial
PLUSINNO Lightweight Fishing Reel
- 🎣【Ultra Smooth Performance】– PLUSINNO...
- 🎣【Lightweight】– The rigid graphite frame...
- 🎣【High Powered】– PLUSINNO fishing reel's...
Features:
- Graphite frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Maximum drag (pounds): 12
- Available sizes: 2000
- 9+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): 8.5
- Gear ratio: 5.2:1
- IPT: 24.4
Are you looking for an ultralight reel under 25 bucks? If so, make sure to check this PLUSINNO ultralight fishing reel.
As expected, the reel features a graphite frame with a braid-ready CNC aluminum spool. Beginners will benefit the most from this reel since there is no need for monofilament backing. Plus, the anti-twist line roller decreases the chance of line tangles.
Nine stainless steel ball bearings are responsible for keeping the reel running smoothly. Don’t use the reel on saltwater. Sand and saltwater will get inside the bearings and render them useless.
Three carbon fiber washers deliver up to 12 pounds of power. However, you might notice some jerks every now and then. But it doesn’t get any better at this price point.
Pros:
- It comes with a line holder
- Decent drag for small fish
- Flawlessly bail operation
- The large collapsible handle gives more cranking power
Cons:
- Not for saltwater
- Flimsy drag dial
More Reviews
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel
- Multi-disc, oiled felt drag system, Max Drag...
- Quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing
- Precision machine cut brass pinion gear
Features:
- Graphite frame
- 2-tone anodized aluminum spool
- Oiled felt drag washers
- Maximum drag (pounds): 6.6 and 15.4
- Available sizes: 10, 20 and 25
- 7+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): From 6.0 to 8.0
- Gear ratio: 5.0:1
- IPT: 21.8 to 25.8
Affordability and performance, that’s what you get with the Okuma Ceymar. There are several sizes available. But we will stay with the 10, 20, and 25 as these are the lightest models. All three are ideal for fish like sunfish, small perch, trout, and bluegill.
There is a lot of power beneath the Ceymar hood. Felt drag washers, elliptical gears for friction reduction, and seven stainless steel ball bearings will give you the edge against fish. Still, the spinning reel is delicate enough, so you don’t hurt the fish.
The Ceymar also features a cyclonic flow rotor that speeds drying time. Thus, preventing corrosion and increasing durability.
Pros:
- The cyclonic rotor helps speed drying time
- The 10 and 20 sizes are remarkably light
- Smooth and steady operation
Cons:
- Felt drag is not as smooth as carbon fiber
- The reel is smaller than the advertised size
Daiwa BG Lightweight Spinning Reel
- Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing ("Hard...
- Solid Screw-In Handle, Air Rotor, Dynamic Cut...
- Braided Line Ready Spool, Waterproof Drag System,...
Features:
- Anodized aluminum frame
- Maximum drag (pounds): 4.4
- Available sizes: 1500 and 2000
- 6+1 bearings
- Weight (ounces): From 6.0 to 8.0
- Gear ratio: 5.6:1
- IPT: 28.3 and 29.5
- Line capacity (Yards): Up to 155
To close this 12 best ultralight spinning reels review, we bring the Daiwa BG. It features an aluminum frame. As a result, the reel is heavier than the average.
The sealed drag system is the most appealing feature of this reel. Neither sand nor water will mess with the drag washers, resulting in an even and consistent operation no matter what. Additionally, the ATD proprietary technology guarantees proper disc lubrication.
Daiwa used computer software to carefully create each gear. Hence, reducing play and increasing durability. You will notice its buttery smooth performance right out of the box.
Pros:
- Strong aluminum frame
- Braid-ready spool
- Superb line capacity
- Corrosion-resistant built
- Smooth and powerful drag
Cons:
- Heavier than most equivalent reels
- This bail wire
Our Top Pick: SHIMANO Stradic FL
As it could be otherwise, the Stradic FL by SHIMANO is our winner. Yes, it is the most expensive reel on this list. However, it is a lifetime investment.
The shifted center of gravity and double-supported gears mean that the Stradic FL is perfect for casting extremely light lures. There is almost no noticeable friction.
In addition, the Hagane body is capable of handling anything you throw at it. It works better than regular aluminum and graphite. The bearings have a shield on either side. Something that neither of the other reels on this list has.
All You Need to Know About Ultralight Spinning Reels
Knowing the basics about spinning reels is crucial when searching for the best ultralight spinning reel. You must make sure that the product has what you need. However, finding the right reel is a challenge, as there are so many options.
But rest assured. We’ve taken the time to make a comprehensive buyer’s guide. Here you will find everything you need to make an educated decision. So, let’s cut to the chase.
What is Ultralight Fishing?
Before talking in-depth about ultralight spinning reels, let’s take some time to understand what ultralight fishing is.
As the name suggests, ultralight fishing is the art of catching fish using light gear. That is an ultralight rod, reels, lures, and thin lines. Here spinning reels are the prime choice, as baitcasters are not compatible with light lines and lures.
An ultralight fishing setup is ideal for catching small fish such as trout, panfish, bluegill, and bass. Here, finesse and natural presentation are more important than raw power.
What Reel Size is Best for Ultralight Fishing?
Usually, spinning reels come in a wide variety of sizes ranging from 500 to 5000. You might be wondering. What is the difference between them? A bigger spinning reel, say a 5000, is compatible with thicker lines. Plus, you can wrap more yards of fishing line on the spool and have more drag than a 4000 spinning reel. However, it is heavier than the latter.
For ultralight fishing, I recommend anything from 500 to 2000.
Materials of Construction
Built quality has a direct influence on performance. Therefore, you should pay close attention to it. Normally, A better build also means a much more expensive product.
Graphite, anodized and regular aluminum, brass, and stainless steel are the most common materials used for ultralight spinning reel construction.
Most ultralight spinning reels have an aluminum or graphite frame. Aluminum is stronger, less flexible, and a bit heavier than graphite. Thus, the reel will be able to withstand more tension without flexing.
In contrast, graphite spinning reels are lighter but more fragile than aluminum. However, they can cope with saltwater without additional protection.
Ultralight Spinning Reel Drag
Drag will always play an important role, regardless of the reel type and size. For ultralight applications, anything between 5 to 15 pounds will get the job done. Everything seems nice. But, what’s the drag?
The drag is the minimum amount of pressure the fish has to apply to take the line out of the spool. Hence, 10 pounds of drag means that the fish must apply 10 pounds of pressure. In time, the fish will get tired, and you can reel it without too much trouble.
Keep in mind that you must always set the drag according to the line’s test strength. The line will snap if you don’t do it. Like ultralight fishing involves using singularly thin lines, setting the drag right is crucial.
If you are using a 6-pound test line, you should use a 1 to 2-pound drag. This way, you can work the fish without worrying about the line.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio shows how many times the spool spins each time you turn the handle. It comes as an X:1 ratio, where X is the number of spool revolutions.
High ratios mean that you can work the lure faster. Hence, such reels are ideal for working buzz baits, spinnerbaits, and similar lures. Alternatively, slow ratios are more suitable for slower ones.
Ultralight Spinning Reel Line Capacity
Spool size and the line’s test strength dictate how many yards of line you put in the reel. As you might expect, bigger reels have larger spools. Hence, more line capacity.
How thick the line is also affected line capacity. Slimmer lines take less space; thereby, you can wrap more yards of line.
Typically ultralight fishing doesn’t require too much line. With a 170-yard reel, you will be more than fine.
Ball Bearings
The bearings play a vital role in reel operation. They reduce friction and transfer movement from one place to another. Therefore, a faulty ball bearing will make the reel less smooth.
Most spinning reels feature stainless steel ball bearings with or without a shield. Try to always go for shielded ball bearings as they are less likely to get damaged by sand or saltwater.
Keep in mind that more bearings do not always translate into great performance. For example, SHIMANO uses fewer ball bearings than other brands like Piscifun and KastKing and still manages to have a smoother operation.
Fresh Vs Saltwater Ultralight Spinning Reels
Not all fishing reels are suitable for saltwater fishing. That’s why I don’t recommend using a freshwater reel for saltwater angling. It will get corroded in a blink of an eye.
Therefore, if you are thinking of using your ultralight spinning reel on saltwater, make sure that it has a sealed interior. Shielded ball bearings are also a must. Additionally, any aluminum should have a protective coating against corrosion. Only with this setup, you can confidently fish on saltwater.
