I had a horrible dream the other night. Actually, it was every fisherman’s nightmare.
I was on the lake. My buddy was landing bass left and right. But I couldn’t lift my fishing reel.
Before we get into that, Here’s a quick look on our top three ultralight spinning reels…
It felt like a thousand pounds. I wanted to cast my fishing gear so bad. Instead, I watched him catch fish and laugh at me. But that won’t happen in real life.
There’s not one documented case!
There are, however, ultralight spinning reels built for all-day use. Combined with the best ultralight rods (review here) they’re easy on the arms and wrists —ideal for whipping lightweight lures for hours.
The hard part is picking one out. Obviously you want to find the best ultralight spinning reel. So how do you know which one to choose?
No worries. I’m about to show you 7 ultralight spinners that make the grade.
So without delay here’s my top picks for lightweight reels —
The Top Three
Here are our top three choices from the lineup, each one in its own category.
This is so you can have a variety to choose from depending on your needs.
Best All-Rounder
Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Reel
It’s a very well-balanced fishing reel. It’s even been known to reel in some big gamefish. The Shimano Stradic Ci4 comes in 4 models —the lightest reel is 5.6 ounces. It’s one of the most lightweight spinning reels on the market.
Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Reel
If you’re seeking a dependable ultralight reel —look no further than the Shimano Stradic CI4+. This little baby checks all the boxes.
The Shimano Stradic CI4+ is infused with X-Ship technology. Its double-bearing pinion gear ensures a butter-smooth retrieve —especially when cranking heavy loads.
It’s Magnumite rotor is lighter than before. Anglers say reeling feels effortless.
It has a water-resistant drag with multiple settings. That means you can trust it with all sizes of fish.
The CI4+ has 7 stainless steel bearings. They’re well-protected by carbon housing –built to last.
The Shimano Stradic CI4+ comes in 4 models —the lightest is 5.6 ounces. It’s one of the lightest and best ultralight spinning reels on the market.
Best on a Budget
KastKing Sharky III 1000 Spinning Reel
This ultralight spinner is a smart choice. Some anglers say its drag systems and gears’ ratio are lackluster. So it’s not perfect —but it performs well.
KastKing Sharky III 1000 Spinning Reel
You want an ultralight fishing reel that’s affordable. But you’re scared of buying a piece of crap. I totally get it.
Meet the KastKing Sharky III. It can handle all types of fish and performs like a high-end lightweight reel. And yes, it’s price-friendly.
The Sharky III packs 10 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. That means you get a smooth, high-performance cast and retrieve.
It also has an intrusion shield system to protect against the elements. Its triple-disc carbon fiber drag and brass pinion gears make it a quality reel for the price.
KastKing did a nice job of marrying quality with affordability. If you’re on a tight budget —this is the best ultralight spinning reel.
Editor’s Choice
Okuma RTX Spinning Reel
Lightweight with Durable Construction. As mentioned, the lightest model weighs 6.6 ounces and still has a solid build. It’s frame, rotor and side panel are forged from C40X carbon.
Okuma RTX Spinning Reel
This is my favorite ultralight spinning reel. It weighs 6.7 ounces and boasts a solid build.
It’s frame, rotor and side panel are forged from C40X carbon. So you get a reel that’s lightweight with durable construction.
I used this little red devil at the Ohoopee River. Its 8 ball bearing count and elliptical gearing system delivered a fluid cast and steady retrieve.
I reeled in some warmouth and a couple big bass. Its multi-disc drag worked just as it should —I was impressed.
The anti-reverse feature worked dandy as well. Anglers agree that it offers a nice hook set.
Overall it’s a well-built reel for the money. I put my personal stamp of approval on it.
Our Top Picks
We’ve lined out our top picks for ultra light reels and pitted them against each other.
Each one’s a quality reel in its own right and they all have their different strengths…
Shimano Sedona FI
It has a rigid “Hagane Body” that prevents distortion and flex while reeling. It also protects the interior of the reel from impact damage.
Shimano Sedona FI
Power and Smooth Reeling
The Sedona FI is known for its Hagane Gear Technology. This is why I selected it as it has potential to be the best ultralight reel. And also, this might be the best Shimano spinning reel.
The Sedona FI is known for its Hagane Gear Technology…
It has super-refined gear teeth. They allow its micro-module ultralight gear system to operate flawlessly—especially under heavy loads.
I’m rolling with the lightest saltwater fishing reels of the Shimano Sedona FI series. These are the 1000, 2500 and 3000 models.
Each small reel is under 9 ounces. The others are too heavy for the list.
The 1000 reel size model has a 5:0:1 gear ratio. The 2500 and 3000 models have a high ratio with reduced noise –6:2:1. They reel smoother.
NOTE
It’s worth noting –the 3000 model boasts a 20 pound drag. That’s a heavy frag for an ultralight spinning reel.
Solid, Innovative Build
The reel makers use a cold forging process. That means the metal flows of this ultralight spinning reel are fluid.
It has a rigid “Hagane Body” that prevents distortion and flex while reeling. It also protects the interior of the reel from impact damage.
The Sedona FI has a “G Free” body, as well. Translation? It brings the center of gravity closer to the rod for maximum comfort and the angled spool lip reduces friction for better casting. The propulsion line management system also works towards this end.
It’s also fitted with a waterproof structure that’s self-energizing. So it has the power to make long casts in repetition.
If you want, you can check out our Shimano Sedona Full Review for more detailed information about this ultralight reel.
Specs
- Mono Line Capacity –100/6 – 140/20
- Braid Line Capacity –85/15 – 140/20
- Max Drag –7 – 20 pounds
- Gear Ratio –5:0:1 – 6:2:1
- Ball Bearing Count —4
- Weight –7.7 — 8.8 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –26 -36 inches
- Retrieve side — Left and Right Full Specs
Pros
- Made from a cold forging process.
- Infused with Hagane Gear Technology.
- 6:2:1 high gear ratio with reduced noise.
- Made from a cold forging process.
- Has “G Free” body for better center of gravity.
- Waterproof structure that’s self-energizing.
Cons
- There’s no anti-reverse switch.
- Has a mediocre ball bearing count —with 4.
- The 1000 model has a mediocre gear ratio.
- Does not come with added spool.
Best All-Rounder
Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Reel
It’s a very well-balanced spinning reel. It’s even been known to reel in some big gamefish. The Shimano Stradic Ci4 comes in 4 models —the lightest is 5.6 ounces. It’s one of the lightest and best ultralight spinning reels on the market.
Shimano Stradic CI4+ Spinning Reel
Packed with X-Ship Technology
This one is my choice for best all-around ultralight spinning reel. And it’s for good reasons.
As mentioned, the Ci4+ is created with X-Ship Technology. This brings a lot of quality to the table.
Its makeup is similar to the Sedona FI. Both ultralight fishing reels boast Hagane gear technology —which speaks volumes.
The CI4+ has a double-bearing pinion gear for a fluid retrieve —even when reeling heavy lures. It’s also built with “core protect” to preserve the gear.
A Newer, Lighter Rotor
It sports a new Magnumite rotor. This makes the reel super lightweight. Anglers say casting and reeling with the CI4+ feels effortless.
It may be light –but it’s plenty strong…
And no worries. It may be light –but it’s plenty strong. The Stardic’s magnumite rotor is forged for the long haul.
Anglers say it has a smooth drag, with lots of levels of adjustment. But there is no anti-reverse –so you will have to rely on the drag.
Top Quality Build and Plenty of Ball Bearings
The Ci4+ boasts 7 stainless-steel bearings. They’re protected by carbon housing.
It’s a very well-balanced spinning reel. It’s even been known to reel in some big gamefish.
It’s a very well-balanced spinning reel. It’s even been known to reel in some big gamefish…
The Shimano Stradic Ci4 comes in 4 models —the lightest is 5.6 ounces. It’s one of the lightest and best ultralight spinning reels on the market.
One complaint is that the handle on the old model felt better. Something about the shape and thickness of this one bothers some people. But that’s a bit ticky-tacky.
Also, the price is a little on the high side. If you’re looking for a more affordable ultralight fishing reel, there are options out there. You may want to explore them, like the Shimano Vanford series, the new and updated version of the Ci4+.
Specs
- Mono Line Capacity – 27/2 – 140/10
- Braid Line Capacity – 95/10 -105/40
- Weight –5.6 – 6.7 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –31 – 35 inches
- Retrieve side -Right and left
- Max Drag –7 – 24 pounds
- Bearings –7
- Gear ratio –6:0:1 – 6:2:1 Full Specs
Pros
- Created with X-Ship Technology.
- Has a double-bearing pinion gear for a fluid retrieve.
- Built with “core protect” to preserve the gear.
- Has superlight Magnumite rotor.
- 250% stronger and 20% lighter.
- Boasts 7 stainless-steel bearings.
- A good ultralight reel for bigger gamefish.
- One of the lightest spinning reels.
- Effortless casting and reeling
Cons
- Handle is uncomfortable to some anglers.
- It’s a bit pricey –not the best for tight budgets.
- There’s no anti-reverse.
Pflueger President Spinning Reel (SP20X – SP30X)
It has a 5:2:1 gear ratio —which means it has a decent reeling rate. But nothing to write home about. It works well enough for ultralight lures and heavier lures. But if reel speed is a big concern, you may want to look at other options.
Pflueger President Spinning Reel (SP20X – SP30X)
Impressive Ball-Bearing Count
The Pflueger President relies on 10 ball-bearings —depending on the model. The lightest model has 7. But the other three models have 10.
The Pflueger President relies on 10 ball-bearings —depending on the model…
That’s a lot of bearings for a lightweight reel. So of course it has a smooth cast and retrieve.
Its gear has a 5:2:1 ratio —which means it has a decent reeling rate. But nothing to write home about.
It works well enough for ultralight lures and heavier lures. But if reel speed is a big concern, you may want to look at other options.
Extremely Lightweight and Strong
The smallest model weighs 6.2 ounces. But that doesn’t make it dinky.
The President packs a graphite body. It protects the stainless steel shaft and components, but some anglers prefer carbon.
The President packs a graphite body. It protects the stainless steel shaft and components…
Much of the parts are corrosion-resistant. That’s something to value if you want a durable spinner even if you’re only freshwater fishing.
It also has a double-anodized braid ready aluminum spool right out of the box. Plus it’s known to lay line flat to resist kinks and loops.
Multi-disc Drag with Anti-reverse
The sealed drag system works exceptionally well for a less expensive reel. It’s built to battle medium-size gamefish with ease.
Its drag is stainless steel and oil felt. Pflueger took no shortcuts. Every aspect of the President is up to par.
But there is one concern. Over time, the drag tends to wear out. That’s only with above-average wear and tear.
Also, keep in mind that its housing is graphite. It’s very lightweight. But some anglers say it looks cheap. They prefer carbon housing because it’s stronger.
Specs
- Mono Line Capacity –200/2 – 130/8
- Braid Line Capacity –180/4 – 160/10
- Max Drag –6 – 14 pounds
- Gear Ratio–5:2:1
- Ball Bearing Count –7-10
- Weight — 6.2 – 8.8 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –20-25 inches
- Retrieve side –Left and Right Full Specs
Pros
- Ball bearing count of up to 10.
- One of the most lightweight spinning reels on the market
- Stainless steel shaft and components.
- Corrosion-resistant build.
- Double-anodized aluminum braid ready spool
- Resist kinks and loops.
- Multi-disc drag system
- Comes with anti-reverse feature
Cons
- Drag wears out with high use, over time.
- Has lightweight graphite housing
- Some anglers say it looks “cheap”
Best on a Budget
KastKing Sharky III 1000 Spinning Reel
This ultralight spinner is a smart choice. Some anglers say the gears ratio and its drag systems are lackluster. So it’s not perfect —but it performs well.
KastKing Sharky III 1000 Spinning Reel
Affordable and High Quality
This is my choice for best ultralight reel on a budget. It’s a nice mix of economy and quality.
The best thing about the Sharky is its 10 double-shielded stainless-steel ball bearings…
The best thing about the Sharky is its 10 double-shielded stainless-steel corrosion resistant ball bearings. They deliver ultra-smooth performance.
Ultralight with a Heavy Drag
The Sharky boasts a 33-pound drag system. That’s a lot for a fishing reel, let alone an ultralight spinning reel.
The Sharky boasts a 33-pound drag system. That’s a lot for a fishing reel, let alone an ultralight spinning reel…
It’s not really “meant” for big gamefish. But if you snag one, it has the drag to give you a fighting chance.
The drag systems are made of triple-disc carbon fiber as well. So it’s tough and stands up to debris and water.
Components You Can Count On
The brass pinion gear gives it a nice smooth retrieve. The 5:2:1 gear ratio is mediocre. But its high-quality components offset that slight weakness.
The Sharky III 1000 is built with an “intrusion shield system.” That means its bearings, gears and rotor are protected.
It also sports an anti-lock/anti-reverse feature for killer hook-sets. And the aluminum spool is ready for braided line or monofilament line.
All-in-all, this ultralight spinner is a smart choice. Some anglers say the gears ratio and its drag system are lackluster. So it’s not perfect —but it performs well.
Specs
- Braid Line Capacity –200/2 – 130/40
- Max Drag –33
- Gear Ratio –5:2:1
- Ball Bearing Count –10
- Weight –6.9 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –26
- Retrieve side –Left and Right Full Specs
Pros
- Nice splice of quality and economy
- A beefy 33 pound drag for bigger fish
- Brass pinion gear with smooth retrieve
- Triple disc carbon fiber drag system
- Intrusion shield system to protect vital components
- Has anti-lock/anti-reverse feature to improve hook sets
- Aluminum spool for braided line or monofilament line
- Ultralight weighing in at 6.9 ounces
Cons
- Mediocre 5:2:1 gear ratio
- Some complaints about the drag wearing out after heavy use
- Some complaints about the drag wearing out after heavy use
Okuma Ceymar C10 Spinning Reel
The Ceymar C10 is made from high quality, light-weight components. It’s earned a reputation as being a reliable ultralight reel that lasts for years —even under heavy use.
Okuma Ceymar C10 Spinning Reel
Petite and Tough as Nails
Well, obviously it’s not made of nails. But the Ceymar C10 is made from high quality, light-weight components.
the Ceymar C10 is made from high quality, light-weight components…
It’s earned a reputation as being a reliable ultralight reel that lasts for years —even under heavy use.
It has a heavy-duty aluminum bail wire and a machined aluminum spool. Plus it boasts a machine-cut brass pinion gear. It’s right on par with the best ultralight spinning reels on the market.
When it comes to reeling it’s especially strong. The C10 has a zinc die-cast handle. It gives you more strength and torque for bigger fish.
The body is made of corrosion-resistant graphite…
It has a corrosion-resistant graphite body. It’s not quite as tough as carbon. But it holds up year after year —and protects against water and debris.
With all this brawn, you’d think it would be a bit heavy. But it’s one of the lightest spinners you’ll find. It weighs in at 6 ounces.
All Precision, No BS
The Ceymar C10 is crafted with an even-flow roller system. It eliminates friction from the line roller and greatly reduces line twists.
Its built-in rotor-equalizing system keeps the alignment perfect. Count on it to maintain precise balance and eliminate spool wobble.
Anti-Reverse Feature
You also get a quick-set anti-reverse feature. This helps a ton when you set the hook on bass or while crappie fishing.
The C10 even looks like it’s built with purpose. Okuma designed it with a narrow blade body that’s sleek and aerodynamic.
Performance to Match High-End Spinners
Some ultralight reels boast an impressive ball bearing count of 10. But the Ceymar C10 utilizes 7 bearings.
No worries, it has a smooth cast and retrieve. All its other features and technology balance it out.
Line Control System
For example, its line control system promotes better line-lay and makes this reel extremely rigid. This keeps things flowing —so you may not miss the 3 extra bearings.
There are, however, two common gripes about this fishing reel. Some anglers complain about its neck flexibility. It can be slightly twisted by hand —and they don’t like it.
Also, complaints of spindle-warp have been reported. Basically the line has a tendency to wrap around the spindle. But most anglers have no troubles with it.
Specs
- Braid Line Capacity– N/A
- Max Drag –5 pounds
- Gear Ratio –5:0:1
- Ball Bearing Count –7
- Weight –6 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –21 inches
- Retrieve side –Left and Right Full Specs
Pros
- Packs 10 stainless-steel ball bearings.
- Machine-cut brass pinion gear.
- Zinc die-cast handle for more torque
- Has an even-flow roller system that eliminates friction
- Built-in rotor-equalizer for perfect alignment
- Precision elliptical gearing system
- One of the lightest ultralight reels, at 6 ounces.
- Quick-set anti-reverse for better hook-sets
- A line control system for better line-lay
Cons
- Complaints of too much neck flexibility
- Line can wrap around the spindle if not careful
Editor’s Choice
Okuma RTX Lightweight Spinning Reel
Lightweight with Durable Construction. As mentioned, the lightest model weighs 6.6 ounces and still has a solid build. It’s frame, rotor and side panel are forged from C40X carbon.
Okuma RTX Lightweight Spinning Reel
Editor’s Choice for Good Reasons
This is my favorite ultralight spinning reel. I have experience using this little baby. I recommend it to anyone in the market for a quality micro spin reel.
Lightweight with Durable Construction
As mentioned, the lightest model weighs 6.6 ounces and still has a solid build. It’s frame, rotor and side panel are forged from C40X carbon.
It has a barrel-shaped EVA handle with a 6:0:1 gear ratio. That makes it a high-speed spinning reel.
Its precision elliptical gearing system operates with low friction…
Its precision elliptical gearing system operates with low friction. So you get more accuracy, impressive drag power, and smooth drag pressure.
Smooth Overall Performance
With an 8 ball bearing count it delivers long, fluid casts. It helps you reach nooks and coves with pinpoint accuracy.
With 8 ball bearings it delivers long, fluid casts…
The multi-disc drag system is also a “smooth operator.” It’s infused with hydro-block technology —so it’s watertight.
I reeled in some nice-sized river warmouth and bass with the Okuma RTX. I was impressed with how well the drag handled the fight.
Dependable Drag System
The two ultralight models —25S and 30S —offer two different max drags. If you want a meaner drag for bigger fish roll with the 30S. It offers 13 pounds. The 25S has an 8-pound drag.
Its 2-tone aluminum spool handles braided line and monofilament line well. Anglers say it lays flat with little or no issues.
Okuma gave it a quick-set anti-reverse feature that helps you set the hook. There’s no slippage –which is huge.
In my opinion it’s the most well-balanced ultralight reel on the market…
In my opinion it’s the most well-balanced ultralight reel on the market. It has zero weak spots.
The only drawback is that 2 of its models are a bit heavy. The RTX 25S and 30S are the only “ultralight” reels. The 35S and 40S are built heavier for bigger fish.
Specs
- Mono Line Capacity –310/4 – 150/8
- Braid Line Capacity –130/10 – 150/40
- Max Drag –8-13 pounds
- Gear Ratio –6:0:1
- Ball Bearing Count –8
- Weight –6.6 – 8.6 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –29-34 inches
- Retrieve side –left and right Full Specs
Pros
- Has 8 ball bearings for long, smooth casting.
- C40X carbon parts –frame, rotor and side panel.
- Lightest model is 6.6 ounces.
- Barrel-shaped EVA handle for better retrieve.
- High-speed 6:0:1 gear ratio.
- Precision elliptical gearing system for accuracy and balanced drag pressure.
- Multi-disc drag systems with hydro-block technology
- Quick-set anti-reverse for solid hook-sets
Cons
- The reel series has just 2 ultralight reels
- Some anglers say the spool can be difficult
Abu Garcia Revo Premier
You get extremely smooth casting and overall performance. This makes it ideal for finesse fishing with ultralight lures —for bass or crappie.
Abu Garcia Revo Premier
Perfect for Deep Water and Finesse Fishing
Anglers say it’s the crappie fishing king. Why? It packs 150 yards of braid. This line capacity allows them room to run.
It comes with a ball bearing count of 12. That’s the highest bearing count on my list.
You get extremely smooth casting and overall performance. This makes it ideal for finesse fishing with ultralight lures —for bass or crappie.
Superior Gears and Durability
The Abu Garcia Revo Premier has an impressive 6:2:1 gear ratio. It’s a high-speed reel in an ultralight body and a Rocket line management system. So count on a quicker retrieve.
has an impressive 6:2:1 gear ratio. It’s a high-speed reel in an ultralight body…
Its gears are also machine optimized and operate with silky-smooth efficiency. If you want an ultralight reel with unique reel flow —this is your baby.
Speaking of unique flow, the Revo Premiere has “rocket line management technology” It allows the line to flow freely with less kinks.
It also comes packing a C6 carbon body. It’s infused with corrosion protection. That’s great to have even if you’re only freshwater fishing.
The Abu Garcia Revo Premier has a carbon handle, carbon rotor and aluminum shaft. It’s built with quality and longevity in mind.
K Clutch Anti-Reverse and Carbon Matrix Drag System
Abu Garcia knows how important setting the hook is. They also know that having a good drag is crucial.
built for 10 pounds of pull. It ensures smooth drag pressure on every hook-up.
Its matrix drag system’s built for 10 pounds of pull. It ensures smooth drag pressure on every hook-up.
There is one downside. Despite the quality components, some anglers say this reel is just too noisy. This happens when the reel is under a heavy load.
Also, this ultralight spinner is a bit high-end. It’s the most expensive one on my list —but well worth the money.
Specs
- Mono Line Capacity –100/6 -230/10
- Braid Line Capacity – 150/6 -250/14
- Max Drag –10-17 pounds
- Gear Ratio –6:2:1
- Ball Bearing Count –12
- Weight –6.4-8.4 ounces
- Line Retrieve Per Crank –30-40 inches
- Retrieve side -Right and left Full Specs
Pros
- Has 12 ball bearings –highest ball bearing count on my list.
- Great for finesse fishing with ultralight lures.
- High-speed reel retrieve –6:2:1 gear ratio.
- Machine optimized gears.
- Embedded with rocket line management technology for free-flowing casts.
- C6 carbon body with corrosion protection
- Carbon rotor and aluminum shaft
- 10 pound matrix drag system
Cons
- Some anglers say it’s too noisy under a heavy load.
- Ultralight spinner is a high-end –the most expensive reel on my list.
Why Buy an Ultralight Spinning Reel?
Some fishermen laugh at the idea of using them. They don’t believe in light fishing gear.
But the truth is ultralight spinners are ideal for many situations. Every angler should have one in their arsenal.
Here are some good reasons to buy an ultralight reel —
Ultralight Reels Cast Light-Weight Lures Further
Ever try to cast a lightweight lure with a regular reel? It feels like a losing battle. Especially when the wind is against you.
Lightweight spinners let fishing line flow off the spool with less drag restriction…
Lightweight spinners let fishing line flow off the spool with less drag restriction. That means you get more distance with small jigs, flies, and roadrunners.
This helps a ton when you’re fishing for bass, crappie or brim. They tend to spook easy. The further you keep the boat from them, the better.
NOTE
As a side note —spinning reels help control and protect fine monofilament fishing line. This is helpful if you’re into fly fishing.
More Accuracy, Less Limb Brim
Ultralight spinners let you cast small lures with more accuracy. You can cast into nooks, bends and inlets where small fish roost.
Ultralight spinners let you cast small lures with more accuracy…
This comes in handy during spring and summer. Hatchling bugs, baitfish and frogs are popping up like wildfire this time of year.
An ultralight reel lets you “match the hatch.” You can target shallow spots with tiny topwater lures and catch a mess of bass or panfish.
Drop shot fishing is a good way into small fish nooks and crevasses as well. Ultralight reels give you pinpoint accuracy to target hotspots.
Skip casting is another way to ease your lure into sweet zones. It helps you land bass under docks or fallen trees.
Easy to Carry, Great for All-Day Fishing Trips
Ultralight reels weigh 8 ounces or less. Some weigh less than 6 ounces. That makes them convenient and light on the arms and wrists.
They’re made for light rods. So no worries —you won’t have to use a mammoth 9 footer to cast your lures.
Some of the best ultralight spinning combos even weight as little as 16 ounces.
NOTE
If you’re going camping, they’re perfect. It saves you from lugging around heavy gear all day.
Be Done with Backlash
Spinning reels reduce hang-ups and backlash. They let line flow freely from the spool.
However, a kink or uneven spool can cause backlash. Loose spooling is often the underlying culprit. So make sure your spool is even with no kinks or loops.
If you’re having trouble spooling your reel, you can follow our easy step-by-step guide here.
The Power to Avoid the “Pendulum Effect”
Baitcasting reels cause your lure to drift towards you as it sinks. It’s because the spool has resistance. A spinning reel has no resistance and doesn’t do that.
A spinning reel has no resistance..
Its smooth spool keeps the rotation even. Your lure drops straight down from where it lands.
This is a difference-maker in deep water. It also helps when you’re fishing vertical cover like fallen trees and bluffs.
A Better Drag Location
A huge upside to using a spinning reel is its drag location. Many spinning reels have it further from the handle. That means you can quickly adjust it during the fight.
A huge upside to using a spinning reel is its drag location…
A baitcasting reel is more difficult to tweak. The drag tends to be close to the handle —which makes it hard to adjust in mid-fight.
When you’re wrestling a nice-size bass, this perk is a big deal. It can be the difference between landing or losing a fish.
Now you know the advantages of using a lightweight spinning reel. But how do you pick out a good one? Great question.
How Do I Choose The Best Ultralight Spinning Reel?
I’ve made a list of the best ultra light reels. But what’s the criteria to pick the right spinning reel?
Here are some things to consider —
What Size Fish Are You Targeting?
You have to be realistic. If you’re wielding an ultralight spinner of a certain reel size, then trophy fish are not on the menu.
An ultralight spinning reel is ideal for bass, trout and crappie…
An ultra light spinning reel is ideal for bass, trout and crappie. Some of the reels we picked can even be considered some of the best trout spinning reels around. But catching fish above 6 or 7 pounds will push the limits of your spinner.
You can use braided line to help snag bigger fish. It’s thick and strong. But it’s also more expensive and fills up the spool quicker.
Monofilament line is a bit weaker. But it has more “stretch” to it. It’s also less expensive —plus you can fit more on the spool.
TIP
Keep in mind that most ultralight reels have a limited drag. So if you hook a biggin’, be prepared for it to run.
Okay, let’s get to the nuts and bolts of ultralight spinning reels. This is the criteria I use to find the best spinning reel —
The Best Gear Ratio
Your gears’ ratio boils down to one thing —retrieving speed. Simple as that.
It’s how much line is reeled per rotation of the crank. You want a reel with at least a 5:1 gear ratio.
A reel with a 6:1 ratio is considered high-speed. Make sure you know the numbers before you decide.
Retrieve Speed
So do you need a low, medium or high speed retrieve? Good question.
It depends on the type of fishing. Consider the lure and the action/speed it needs.
To be safe, a 5:1 gear ratio works for most lightweight lures. It’s medium speed.
RECOMMENDATION
If you’re going ultralight I suggest upping it to a 6:1 or 7:1 ratio. It gives you more play for finesse lures.
Now, let’s talk about the drag system. It’s a crucial part of any spinning reel.
The Best Drag System for an Ultralight Spinning Reel
The drag releases line during the fight so it won’t break. That’s a pretty big deal.
You want one that’s waterproof. This keeps it from slipping and preserves its function.
Multi-disc drag systems perform well. Keep an eye out for micro reels that have them.
TIP
Read reviews and make sure the drag is smooth. It’s crucial —herky-jerky drags lose fish.
Set and test your drag before you fish. Make sure it pulls out smoothly as needed.
Drag System
An ultralight spinning reel comes with a front or rear drag system. Each is a bit different.
Front-drag
Front-drag systems have washers. That means better durability and performance.
Rear-drag
Rear-drag models also work well. They’re easier to access —especially with a fish on the line.
Rear drag models are convenient. But they don’t work as well for bigger fish.
Okay, enough about drag systems. It’s time to talk about bearings.
How Important Are Ball Bearings?
Ball bearings give small spinning reels a smooth performance. Some rely on bushings —but bearings are more effective.
Sealed stainless steel bearings provide the most durability and control. Usually, the more bearings a reel has, the smoother it performs.
Ideally, you want a spinning reel with a high bearing count. But those tend to be more expensive.
TIP
You want an ultralight fishing reel with at least 4 bearings. Anything less will hinder performance.
The spool can also impact a spinner’s performance. Let’s dive into that —
Does the Spool on a Spinning Reel Matter?
The spool matters. It greatly determines casting distance and how smooth it casts.
Spools are made of anodized aluminum or graphite. Both have advantages.
Aluminum provides the most strength and durability. But graphite reels are lighter. So If having a lightweight reel is most important then go with graphite.
We’ve talked about gears, spool and ball bearings. Now let’s talk about what protects them.
Is the Reel Housing Important?
The housing protects the gears. So you want to make sure it’s tough.
The highest quality spinners have aluminum or graphite housing. They help protect against corrosion.
TIP
If you’re doing any saltwater fishing then graphite is more ideal. If you’re sticking to freshwater fishing, aluminum or carbon work better.
Now you understand what makes an ultralight fishing spinning reel worth buying.
So let’s have a quick look on the top three ultralight spinners on my list…
Conclusion
Here is a quick look on our top three picks…
Well, my fishing-fanatic friends, this journey is coming to an end. I know —so sad to have to go.
But I’m waking up at 5 AM to hit a Southeast Georgia pond with a buddy. I hear it has nice nice-size bass and crappie, so I’m stoked!
We’ll be in the before daylight. With any luck we’ll time it just right for a sunrise feeding-frenzy.
And yes, I’m bringing my Okuma RTX. It’s already rigged with a spinnerbait —ready to cast by a stump or low-hanging branch.
Now you have a better idea of how to pick the best ultralight spinning reel and how to use it. Or maybe you fell in love with one of my selections.
Choose What Suits You Best
Either way, don’t be afraid to go with an ultralight spinner. They may fly under the radar, but they produce great results for anglers everywhere.
So make it part of your fishing arsenal. It’s part of mine. Has been for years.
If you’re fantasizing about fishing with one—no worries, it’s normal. Just don’t forget to make your day-dream a reality. Because fish are caught on the pond –not on the couch!
