Fishing for crappies is all about finesse and accuracy…
You’ll be spending all day wearing your best fishing hat and casting into tight spots, experimenting with your depth and retrieve.
After considering all the options our top picks were…
The fishing reel you use should reflect that, you’ll want a light, smooth reel that casts nicely. If you use just any reel and not reels for crappie, results may not be guaranteed.
There are so many reels for crappie fishing on the market with different features and you can even find a reel combo for fishing crappies…
The price ranges can be huge and it’s hard to know which one is the best crappie spinning reel for you.
Here is a review of some of the best crappie reels out there to make your choice a little easier.
The Top Three
Best All-Rounder
Abu Garcia Revo X
This is a lovely little reel from Abu Garcia and the magic lies in its simplicity. The reel body is made from carbon fiber, is strong, light and makes the reel a joy to cast with.
Abu Garcia Revo X
The All-Rounder is a fishing reel that has everything you need while being great value.
It’ll last, stay smooth, have a good drag and be an asset on the water.
The best allrounder crappie fishing reel is the Abu Garcia Revo X.
This is a durable, light, carbon fibre reel at a great price.
The drag system is strong and smooth and it’ll have your back for years on the water.
Best on a Budget
Okuma Ceymar
The Okuma Ceymar is a solid fishing reel overall at a great price. The body is made from graphite for durability and corrosion resistance, you’ll be able to bounce this reel around without much concern.
Okuma Ceymar
The ‘best on a budget’ crappie reel will do all the basics well and have the lowest price possible than comparable reels.
We’re looking for durability, quality, and the best price tag.
The best on a budget crappie fishing reel is the Okuma Ceymar.
It’s built to last from quality materials, has a great drag, a quick smooth retrieve and you’ll love crappie fishing with it.
Editor’s Choice
Shimano Stradic CI4+
The Stradic CI4+ is about as sophisticated as it gets when it comes to crappie reels and you’ll be able to use it everywhere. It’s made from a carbon fiber body, keeping the weight down, while making the reel strong and durable.
Shimano Stradic CI4+
This is the reel I would choose based on my years of experience if money was no object.
The editor’s choice is the Shimano Stradic Ci4+.
This is a super-light carbon fibre reel with all the features you could think of and is built to last a lifetime.
Our top picks…
Here are our top choices of crappie reels.
We have compared the spinning reels against each other.
They are all great crappie fishing reels and have different strengths.
Pflueger President
A fishing reel that a lot of people love and rely on. The body, rotor and side plate are made from graphite, making the reel durable, corrosion-resistant and light for long days of casting. It’s a comfortable, easy to use crappie reel.
Pflueger President
The Pflueger President is a fishing reel that a lot of people love and rely on.
The body, rotor and side plate are made from graphite, making the reel durable, corrosion-resistant and light for long days of casting.
It’s a comfortable, easy to use crappie spinning reel…
The internal workings include a stainless steel main shaft, aluminum handle, and brass gears – you’ll be able to use this reel in both salt and freshwater fishing.
… you’ll be able to use this reel in both salt and freshwater fishing.
The fishing reel has a quick and smooth retrieve under pressure thanks to the 10 bearing system.
You’ll be able to turn up the heat against a crappie swimming for cover and get it in quick-time.
The quick retrieve will also help when fishing topwater lures that need that extra bit of speed.
The drag is made from a stainless steel/oil/felt drag system that is super smooth and will stand up well to corrosion.
The spool is double anodized aluminum and braid-ready for easy spooling.
The reel can give an uneven line lay on retrieve in some cases which will cause overwinds and other issues while on the water.
Anti-Reverse Feature
The Pflueger President spinning reel comes with an anti-reverse which is turned on and off by the flick of a switch.
The bail arm is made from aluminum, but can close mid-cast.
This will be frustrating and you may lose a few lures to this.
NOTE
The gears can grind after a while, especially after saltwater use. In addition, the reel isn’t sealed and be sure to maintain it well.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 225/4, 145/6, 130/8
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 275/6, 190/8, 160/10
- Max Drag : 4.5kg
- Gear Ratio : 5:2:1
- Ball bearings : 9+1
- Weight : 250g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 25.3
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Smooth retrieve, even under pressure
- Drag is smooth
- Lightweight for good casting
- Quick retrieve rate
Cons
- Bail arm closes mid-cast,
- Line can bunch up on retrieve
- Gears can grind after a while
Shimano Sedona FI
Shimano makes great reels and is one of the most trusted manufacturers in the world. The Sedona F1 is an awesome reel and Shimano has filled it with features usually found in their higher end models.
Shimano Sedona FI
Shimano makes great reels and is one of the most trusted manufacturers in the world.
The Sedona FI is an awesome quality reel and Shimano has filled it with features usually found in their higher end models.
…The Sedona FI is an awesome quality reel and Shimano has filled it with features usually found in their higher end models
The reel is super light thanks to the use of some plastic components and the composite HCT 7 M body.
It’s a pleasure to cast thanks to the low weight, its G Free Body system and Propulsion Line Management System.
G Free Body and Propulsion Line Management System
The G Free Body moves the center of gravity to the rod to help you cast further and more comfortably.
Combine this with the Propulsion Line Management System that provides longer casting distance while preventing backlashes, wind knots, plus reduces friction and you have a casting machine.
The insides are made up of Shimano’s cold-forged HAGANE gear system…
The insides are made up of Shimano’s cold-forged HAGANE gear system which is about as durable as it gets when it comes to gears.
They’ll be smooth for a lifetime, handle pressure and are robust enough for saltwater use.
Spool
The Sedona features an aluminum spool, is braided line ready and gives an even line lay.
It’s been designed to let the line off in small tight coils for optimal casting.
The drag and retrieve are smooth as butter compared to other spinning reels despite the low bearing count.
Missing Feature
As good as it sounds, the reel does have some drawbacks though.
It doesn’t come with anti-reverse which I know many anglers rely on.
The bail arm can malfunction and affect your casting and the reel can tighten up after a while but this is rare, it’s most likely due to poor maintenance.
Check out this full review of the Sedona reel for more detailed information about the Shimano Sedona.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 200/6, 140/8, 120/10
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 150/10, 145/15
- Max Drag : 4kg
- Gear Ratio : 5:0:1
- Ball bearings : 3+1
- Weight : 245g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 36”
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Excellent for long, accurate casts
- A well made and durable reel.
- Good for fresh and saltwater
- Light for long casting days
Cons
- There is no anti-reverse.
- The bail arm can malfunction.
- The retrieve can tighten up after some use.
- Low bearing.
Editor’s Choice
Shimano Stradic CI4+
The Stradic CI4+ is about as sophisticated as it gets when it comes to crappie reels and you’ll be able to use it everywhere. It’s made from a carbon fiber body, keeping the weight down, while making the reel strong and durable.
Shimano Stradic CI4+
The Stradic CI4+ is about as sophisticated as it gets when it comes to crappie reels and you’ll be able to use it everywhere.
It’s made from a carbon fiber body, keeping the weight down, while making the reel strong and durable.
The Stradic CI4+ is about as sophisticated as it gets when it comes to crappie reels and you’ll be able to use it everywhere…
The ultralight spinning reel includes the HAGANE gear system for further durability and the G Free Body system to keep you casting comfortably all day.
The Stradic CI4 has a multi-disc carbon fiber drag system.
This impressive drag system makes it super smooth, strong and durable.
NOTE
The max is a bit high for crappie fishing, but you’ll want it when using this reel in other environments.
X-Ship Technology
The retrieve is smooth and quick thanks to the bearings and high gear ratio.
The reel also comes with X-Ship technology, for increased gear efficiency when under pressure.
This will let you get maximum efficiency in every wind when fighting a fish.
This reel has an aluminum spool, braided line ready and includes a grooved power roller that assists with line management.
It reduces knots, line twist and ensures even line lay.
Missing Feature
Unfortunately, there is no anti-reverse in this reel and the line roller bearing can fail – It’s a bit of a disappointment for crappie anglers but Shimano will replace this one roller bearing for you though.
The bail arm is made from aluminum, but it is a little stiff to engage.
The New Version
If you love the Ci4+, including its shortcomings, then I’m sure you’ll like the Shimano Vanford series, an updated version of the Ci4+. Shimano Vanford combines all the excellent features of the Ci4 and improves them even further.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 200/6, 140/8, 120/10
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 150/10, 145/15, 100/30
- Max Drag : 9kg
- Gear Ratio : 5:0:1
- Ball bearings : 6+1
- Weight : 190g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 35 inch
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Super light reel
- Great line management
- Very durable
- Can be used in fresh and saltwater
- Excellent drag, especially for light line
Cons
- Anti-reverse isn’t included
- The line roller bearing can fail
- The bail arm is a bit stiff
Best All-Rounder
Abu Garcia Revo X
This is a lovely little spinning reel from Abu Garcia and the magic lies in its simplicity. The body is made from carbon fiber, is strong, light and makes the reel a joy to cast with.
Abu Garcia Revo X
This is a lovely little spinning reel from Abu Garcia and the magic lies in its simplicity.
The body is made from carbon fiber, is strong, light and makes the reel a joy to cast with.
This is a lovely little spinning reel from Abu Garcia and the magic lies in its simplicity…
The Revo X has a graphite rotor that increases the durability, while helping to keep the price down.
The gear ratio is high and combined with the ball bearings makes for a fast and smooth retrieve.
The drag is made from Abu’s Carbon matrix Hybrid System.
This is a multi-disc carbon drag system that gives smooth long-lasting performance.
Abu’s Rocket Line Management System
The reel comes with Abu’s Rocket line management system that ensures even line lay, no line twist or backlashes no matter what type of line you’re using.
Gone are the days of tangles on the bank that take up valuable fishing time.
The gears are within the X-Crafty gearbox design that keeps them aligned within the carbon body.
They’ll keep their alignment under pressure and ensure that every wind puts pressure on a fish.
TIP
The reel can be used in both fresh and saltwater, it’s not sealed though so be sure to clean it well.
Nearly all the reel’s materials are super high quality, but it’s let down by its PVC handle – it would have been nice if it was aluminum.
NOTE
The reel arm can stick sometimes and the bearings grind after some use – this is rare and most units work well for a long time.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 185/6, 130/8, 110/10
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 190/8
- Max Drag : 5.2kg
- Gear Ratio : 6:2:1
- Ball bearings : 6+1
- Weight : 218g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 33 inch
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Drag is smooth.
- Good caster.
- Lightweight spinning reel.
- Good line management.
Cons
- Reel arm can stick.
- Bearings grind after some use.
KastKing Sharky III
Even the smallest of the KastKing Sharky III spinning reels are a bit of an overkill for crappie fishing in terms of line capacity and max drag. There is nothing wrong with having a lot of line and a powerful drag though.
KastKing Sharky III
Even the smallest of the KastKing Sharky III reels are a bit of an overkill for crappie fishing in terms of line capacity and max drag.
There is nothing wrong with having a lot of line and a powerful drag though, especially if you want to use this reel for more than crappie fishing.
The drag has a max of 15kg’s, that’s a lot of power and will be useful when fighting big fish.
The carbon fiber multi-disc drag system makes the drag smooth and durable while being able to stop a strong fish.
The bearings and gear ratio give the reel a smooth, fast retrieve that does well under pressure..
The body, rotor and side plate are made from high percentage fiber-reinforced graphite that’ll stand up well to some abuse.
The bearings and gear ratio give the reel a smooth, fast retrieve that does well under pressure – excellent for stopping fish that are trying to snag you.
Anti-Reverse Feature
It comes with anti-reverse and an aluminum braid-ready spool.
The line is known to bunch up and create a lot of wind knots on the retrieve, but this could be user error.
The reel has a shield system to stop water and dirt reaching the internal mechanisms, but it’s a bit hit and miss.
Some reels seem to fail after being used in saltwater. The bearings grind and the drag can stick, but with some proper maintenance, this should be avoided.
NOTE
In very rare cases, parts can fall off and break on these reels.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 200/6, 170/8, 130/10
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 200/20, 170/30, 130/40
- Max Drag : 15kg
- Gear Ratio : 5:2:1
- Ball bearings : 10+1
- Weight : 196g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 26.2 inch
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Large line capacity.
- Strong, smooth drag.
- Good anti-reverse.
- Lightweight for easy casting.
Cons
- Drag and bearings can go after use in saltwater.
- Fishing line can bunch up on retrieve with wind knots.
- Parts can fall off in rare cases.
Sougayilang Spinning Reel
The Sougayilang DK1000 has an insane price tag and is actually pretty solid. It’s the perfect size to target small freshwater fish species like crappies and is durable enough to be used in saltwater.
Sougayilang Spinning Reel
The Sougayilang DK1000 has an insane price tag and is actually pretty solid.
It’s the perfect size to target small freshwater species like crappies and is durable enough to be used in saltwater.
It’s the perfect size to target small freshwater species like crappies and is durable enough to be used in saltwater…
The drag is smooth and strong making it a great crappie reel, all thanks to the carbon fiber multi-disc system.
It’ll be plain sailing pulling fish out of structure when they dash for it.
With a sealed drag system, you don’t have to worry about any salt or dirt from getting in there.
Build
It has a nice light and durable graphite body.
The weight is ideal for long days of casting – you won’t struggle to push past sunset…
You’ll have a smooth, quick retrieve thanks to the gear ratio and the shielded stainless steel ball bearings can handle a heavy load under pressure.
The reel features a CNC machined aluminum spool and handle that will stand the test of time.
The spool is braid-ready, perfect for easy spooling.
The handle does have some play in it and although the reel is pretty on arrival, the paint may peel off as you go. This won’t affect how it performs, but it won’t look the same after a season or two.
TIP
Be sure to lubricate the reel when you get it, it comes a little dry and some grease will do it wonders.
If ever you’re in doubt about Sougayilang Reels because their new to the market, you can check out our Sougayilang Reel Review.
Specs
- Mono capacity LB/YD : 6/200, 8/150, 10/110
- Braid capacity mm/m : 0.18/220, 0.2/180, 0.25/120
- Max Drag : N/A
- Gear Ratio : 5.2:1
- Ball bearings : 11+1
- Weight : 244g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : N/A
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left
Pros
- High-quality reel.
- Stainless steel ball bearings.
- Drag and retrieve is smooth.
- Casts well.
- Light & durable.
Cons
- Paint does start to peel off.
- Needs lubrication on arrival.
- Play in the handle.
Best on a Budget
Okuma Ceymar
The Okuma Ceymar is a solid reel overall at a great price. The body is made from graphite for durability and corrosion resistance, you’ll be able to bounce this reel around without much concern.
Okuma Ceymar
The Okuma Ceymar is a solid reel overall at a great price.
The body is made from graphite for durability and corrosion resistance, you’ll be able to bounce this reel around without much concern.
The Okuma Ceymar is a solid reel overall at a great price…
It features a multi-disc oil/felt drag system that is smooth and starts up with no sticking.
The oil/felt drag system will be great in freshwater, but will suffer in saltwater.
TIP
The max drag of 6kg is perfect for crappie, bass and trout fishing, but don’t go targeting anything bigger.
The gears are made from brass and Okuma’s precision elliptical gear system reduces friction in the gearbox.
This helps you make longer more accurate casts as well as ensuring the reel is smooth under pressure when fighting a fish.
The retrieve is quick and smooth, with no play in the handle. The reel also includes anti-reverse and an aluminum braid-ready spool.
NOTE
There are a few negatives when it comes to this reel. In rare cases, the handle or anti-reverse switch can snap off and a noise can get into the gears after some use. However, this gear issue doesn’t affect how the reel functions and can be relieved with some good maintenance.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB : 200/6, 160/8, 110/10
- Braid capacity YD/LB : 145/8
- Max Drag : 6kg
- Gear Ratio : 5:0:1
- Ball bearings : 7+1
- Weight : 232g
- Retrieve rate, per crank : 25 inch
- Retrieve Side : Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Smooth, strong drag.
- Great for accurate and long casts.
- It can be used in both salt and freshwater.
Cons
- Handle or anti-reverse switching can snap off.
- A noise appears in the gears after a while.
What to Look for in a Crappie Reel?
What are you fishing for?
We know what we are fishing for here, crappies, and as previously mentioned we are looking for a light, accurate spinning fishing reel. A lighter reel is important to easily detect a fish bite on the lure.
Although the best crappie reels are supposed to be lighter than other reels, you must look for the lightest option according to your comfort.
That being said, you might want to use your reel in multiple environments and for catching crappie one day and snapper in the sea the next. Maybe even trout if you don’t have a trout setup.
TIP
Think about what you want your reel to do for you and where it’ll do it. If you want to fish in saltwater and freshwater with the same reel, be sure it can handle it.
Line Capacity
The amount of fishing line you need your reel to hold depends on what you’re trying to catch.
When crappie fishing, almost all lightweight reels will have more than enough line capacity on them.
Crappies won’t take long runs, but they will dash for cover.
Landing them is more about stopping them snagging you than chasing them down.
TIP
If you want a reel that can be used for multiple species, be sure it holds enough line for them, especially if you’re thinking of targeting species like bonefish.
Using Braid
Braid is the line of choice these days; it lasts longer, has a smaller diameter and gives a longer more accurate cast.
You’ll probably want to spool your reel with a braided line at some point. This review of the best fishing line for crappie can help you choose the ideal fishing line for crappie fishing. You should definitely check it out.
TIP
Make sure the reel you choose has a braid-ready spool.
Without it, the line will slip and won’t give you an even lay when spooling your reel.
Most reels are braid-ready, but it’s worth checking.
How Heavy Is The Reel
Crappie fishing involves a lot of casting, you’re always pushing lures into cover and you do it all day long. Weight should always be prioritized when looking for the best crappie reels.
A lightweight reel is going to make casting all day a lot more comfortable when fishing crappie…
Your arm won’t get tired and you’ll be able to keep going into dusk.
Corrosion & Durability
A reel that is durable and handles corrosion will last a long time.
Once you’ve found a good crappie reel you like and gotten to know it, the last thing you want is for it to fail.
RECOMMENDATION
Pick a reel that’s built to last and is made from quality materials like graphite, stainless steel, brass or carbon fiber.
Drag, Strong and Smooth
When crappies run for a snag it’s your drag that’s going to stop them.
You aren’t going to need a powerful drag for your crappie spinning reel as crappies are quite small, but you’ll need a smooth one.
Having a sticky drag while stopping a fish running for cover is a nightmare and you won’t get full control in the fight.
Front drag systems will provide you with more power, dependability and smoother operation but accessing the front drag system is a little complicated. But you’ll get used to a front drag system once you have a bit of practice.
While rear drag systems are easier to operate, they are mechanically more complicated and less effective because they don’t directly touch the spool.
TIP
Make sure the reel you choose has a smooth drag and try to test it before you buy a reel if you can. Simply crank up the drag on the reel and pull a good amount of line off it, if it comes off smoothly you’re good to go.
Conclusion
Here’s a quick recap of our top three best crappie reels…
Best All-Rounder
The best allrounder crappie reel is the Abu Garcia Revo X.
This is a well priced, durable carbon fiber reel with all the features you need.
It can be used in both salt and freshwater, has a great drag and a smooth retrieve. You’ll love spending time with this spinning reel on the water.
Best on a Budget
The best crappie reel on a budget reel is the Okuma Ceymar.
This fishing reel has everything you need as a crappie spinning reel at an amazing price.
The drag is smooth, it casts well and is built to last.
Editor’s Choice
The editor’s choice as a crappie fishing reel is the Shimano Stradic Ci4+.
This is a top-end Shimano spinning fishing reel and the price does reflect that.
It has every feature available plus a great drag and a quick, smooth retrieve.
Its components are made of the highest quality materials and when combined with the carbon fiber body make it a reel for life.
That’s our best crappie reel roundup complete and I hope you found it useful.
All of the spinning reels above are worth considering, just be sure to pick the best crappie reel that will work for all the species and environments you plan on targeting.
If you do that, you can’t go wrong.
Just in case you’re looking for more options or you’re looking for a reel built to snag all sizes of fish in freshwater or saltwater, check out my Penn Clash review.
Thanks for reading my review until the end and don’t forget to share this to other crappie anglers who might find this useful.
If you enjoyed reading this one, you might be interested in some of my other articles. There’s a lot to choose from, like the Best Catfish Reels or the head-to-head comparison of Penn Pursuit II and III. We have tons of info waiting for you.
