Best Ultralight Spinning Reel 2021 – Reviews and Top Picks

Every angler dreams about a reel that is both lightweight and heavy duty. Unfortunately, this unicorn cannot exist due to the laws of physics. Heavy-duty reels are equipped with all-metal bodies and mechanics, powerful drags, several ball bearings, solid handles and so on. They also offer high line capacity, which means that they can hold many lines. All of these features add extra weight, ounce by ounce, until our light-as-a-feather unicorn becomes as heavy as lead. To choose the best ultralight spinning reel, you should search for a reel with a compromise between performance and weight.

As an avid angler, I tried almost 200 reels made by different manufacturers. Some models were great, some were a disaster. The best lightweight reels that I found are ones that I would recommend to my fishing buddies or purchase for myself. Below, I have given my top 5 picks. They are light, but not at the expense of quality.

Name
Weight:
Drag:
Gear Ratio:
Bearings:
Price
Name
Weight:
Drag:
Gear Ratio:
Bearings:
Price
β„–1
6.2 oz.;
6lb
5.0:1
8+1.
β„–3
5.6 oz.
7.6lb
5.0:1
3+1.
β„–4
10.6 oz.
39.5lb
5.2:1
10+1.

Okuma is a Japanese company that has grown into an unbeatable market leader in the past 20 years. The manufacturer is known among accomplished anglers by its strict quality control. Okuma Helios is a marvelous example of Japanese performance standards. The series includes four models for different fishing styles. They differ in size, weight, line capacity, and gearing. Due to its overall performance, anglers call Okuma Helious the best crappie reel. I highly recommend this model for any panfish.

Weight:
6.2 oz.;
Drag:
6lb;
Gear Ratio:
5.0:1;
Bearings:
8+1.
PROS

Reliable brand

1-year warranty

Smooth casting

Reasonable price for the quality

Cons

Bearings not shielded

Poor maintenance quickly causes gear clicking

Abu Garcia is one of the first brands that beginners learn while chatting with avid anglers. This brand was initially Swedish, but is now owned by an American company. The new owner maintained the outstanding quality and modernized the Aby Garcia design. Abu Garcia Revo is a series of four models with high-end components, including carbon stem and rotor, carbon matrix drag, carbon fiber handle with ergonomic EVA knob. Fishermen enjoy ultra-smooth gear feel with durable aluminum machine-made gear system. The all-metal mechanics is both lightweight and hard.

Weight:
5.4 oz.;
Drag:
10lb;
Gear Ratio:
6.2:1;
Bearings:
11+1.
PROS

Reliable brand

Ultra-smooth gearing feel

Ergonomic handle

Lightweight, yet sturdy mechanics

Cons

Anti-reverse sometimes kicks in when hooking

On a pricey side

Shimano is a Japanese company with almost a hundred years of history. The manufacturer has one of the strongest engineer team in the tackle production. Shimano Sedona is the lowest priced model of the brand range, yet it featured all the Shimano key technologies. The model is lightweight, however, all mechanics are metal. The line capacity allows for long-distance casting. The Hagane Gear is incredibly durable. It lasts for several years and gives an angler smooth gearing feel.

Weight:
5.6 oz.;
Drag:
7.6lb;
Gear Ratio:
5.0:1;
Bearings:
3+1.
PROS

Lasts long even under heavy use

High-quality gear

Great line management

Affordable price

Cons

Questionable ball bearing system

No anti-reverse

The KastKing reels are favored in every US state and over 150 countries worldwide. The reason is their attractive price-quality ratio. Any average angler can enjoy the best without breaking the bank. The KastKing Sharky III 5000 is a brand new model that already has conquered the market. The reel offers features that are appreciated primarily by avid anglers. This is definitely one of the best ultralight reels under $50.

Weight:
10.6 oz.;
Drag:
39.5lb;
Gear Ratio:
5.2:1;
Bearings:
10+1.
PROS

1-year warranty

Saltwater approved

Double-shielded ball bearings

Tough mechanics

Capable to go after monster fish

Cons

Not recommended for the windy weather

Abu Garcia Orra SX is a series of three models for different needs. The design is based on the famous Abu Garsia Revo, but the price is more affordable. The engineers also added some features for hassle-free operation. Orra SX is loved by its durability and easy-to-use design. Mechanics are all-metal, however, the model is portable and lightweight. The primary material is aluminum. The C6 carbon body is reinforced and feels great in hands. The ball bearing system is made from stainless steel. It is well protected from corrosion.

Weight:
8.3 oz.;
Drag:
12lb;
Gear Ratio:
5.8:1;
Bearings:
6+1.
PROS

Extremely durable

Sleek body

Stainless steel 8+1 bearings

Sealed carbon matrix drag

Braid-ready spool with oscillation

Cons

Questionable drag performance

Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Lightest Spinning Reel

How to Choose the Lightest Spinning Reel

The market range continues to grow every year, and it becomes harder to make the right choice without knowing the basics. Below, I explain what to look for in an ideal spinning reel and how to choose the best one according to your fishing style.

Brand reliability

A manufacturer’s brand defines the quality of your fishing tool. Even if the particular reel is made in Asia, the head company is still in charge of quality control. In my list, I include only brands with a long history of tackle production and a solid reputation among anglers. Shimano, Abu Garcia, Okuma, and KastKing are market leaders loved by both beginners and professionals. Their reels are well machined, they last long even under harsh use.
Brand reliability of ultralight spinning reels

Reel weight

weight of ultralight spinning reels

Manufacturers use aluminum frames for ultralight spinning because this metal is both durable and lightweight. If you see a stainless steel frame, the model is not ultra light. The only part that can be made from steel is the ball bearing system, which doesn’t add much weight.

The small reel weight makes it portable and protects your hands from overworking. To reduce the weight is extremely important if you have weak joints or back, like me. By experience, I can tell that if you cast and retrieve all day long, the next day your back will be tired. If the reel was too heavy, it also can hurts. The lightest model from my list is Abu Garcia Revo. Anglers buy it not only for themselves, but also for women, children, teenagers, and the elders.

Gear ratio for speed

gear ratio for speed of ultralight spinning reels

Spinning reels were invented to manage lightweight and small lures. When you operate such lures, you need to cast and retrieve quickly; this is why the spool in spinning reel turns faster than in the baitcaster, and the gear ratio is higher.

The drag system in a reel spins the spool multiple times for each rotation of the handle. Abu Garcia Revo has the most productive gear. Its ratio is 6.2:1, which means that when you turn the handle once, the spool spins 6.2 times.

If the spool spins quickly, you can faster pull a fish from the water. This is convenient for small and medium fish like panfish. When you are catching panfish, faster casting and retrieving will give you more trophies at a time. When it comes to heavy fish, the speed is less important than the power of drag.

Drag System and anti-reverse for better handling fish

drag system and anti reverse of ultralight spinning reels

The drag system handles the fish and prevents it from breaking the line. When a fish pulls too hard, the drag allows a small amount of line to go out the spool. This way you can control the distance between you and a fish. The anti-reverse holds the handle so it cannot rotate backward. I think that anti-reverse sometimes does more harm than good because turning back the handle can save both the line and a trophy. However, this is a matter of preferences.

Drag power is measured in pounds. This number should be more than your target fish. For a spinning reel, it is more than enough to have 10-20lb drag. The overall construction of a reel will not allow you to handle monster fish. If you want to go after large catfish or trout, you should choose a baitcaster.

In the list, the KastKing III has the most powerful drag – 39.5lb. This is maybe too much. The Abu Garcia Orra SX gives an optimal number – 12lb.

Ball Bearings for smooth casting

ball bearing for smooth casting of ultralight spinning reels

The ball bearing system in a reel erases extra vibration and makes the casting smoother. There are three factors that you should take into account:

  1. The number of bearings. The bigger is better.
  2. The material. The ball bearings should be metal, no plastic parts allowed.
  3. The protection from rust.

High-quality reels usually have stainless steel bearings. In my list, two models have the most advanced ball bearing system:

  1. Abu Garcia Revo Premier Spinning Reel is equipped with 11+1 stainless steel ball bearings for flawless casting. They are protected from corrosion due to the material; however, they are not shielded. I recommend using this reel for freshwater conditions.
  2. KastKing Sharky III with 10+1 double shielded ball bearings made from stainless steel. This reel will be a workhorse for saltwater fishing.

Do not forget to keep all mechanics well-lubricated and it will serve you for many years.

Other important features to consider

other important features of ultralight spinning reels

Here are some features that make a reel easier to use:

  1. An ergonomic handle. The handle should be metal or made from other rigid material.
  2. A sleek body. For hard conditions, it is better to choose a close-faced design. It protects the mechanics well.
  3. Well-lubricated internals. Re-lubrication takes your time.
  4. An oscillating spool that makes the line even. The fewer line tangles you have, the better is your fishing experience.
  5. High line capacity. If a spool can hold many lines, you do not need to rewind it after each several sessions.
  6. A braid-ready spare spool. For each line type, you need a spool. If you prefer braid, I recommend braid-ready models. With them, you can tie braid directly to the spool without mono backing.

The last feature is a warranty that covers manufacturer’s defects. Okuma and KastKing reels are backed with a one-year limited warranty. Also, these companies provide the most beginner-friendly customer support. The support team is available and ready to help.

FAQ

What is an ultralight reel used for?

Such reels are quite popular among professionals; therefore, even if you think that it is not applicable for you, do not judge too quickly. After all, they are perfect for the same-named fishing style. So, whenever you are up for something light, remember, this special fishing reel is very light and perfect for throwing little lures. Plus, it is way more suitable for small-sized fish.

If you often fish, having one of those reels in your collection will pay off once without a doubt.

What is the best lightweight reel brand?

Based on the recent brand reviews and ratings, one of the leaders is Shimano with its Stradic CI4+ model. This fishing reel was developed by Shimano, a well-known producer with an excellent reputation and the highest quality products.

The company is well known for producing durable yet lightweight fishing reels. Anglers from around the world choose Shimano products for their outstanding characteristics and great value for money.

Stradic CI4+ was developed recently but has already earned popularity and become a best-selling reel. It is very convenient to use due to its remarkably lightweight nature. Moreover, you will enjoy the fishing process in freshwater and saltwater alike. It is perfectly suitable for both of them.

Which spinning reel is considered the lightest?

In July 2020, Abu Garcia revealed their innovative spinning reel named Zenon, which, without a doubt, is considered the lightest in the world.

Zenon’s weight is only 4.9 ounces (size 20) and 5.4 ounces (size 30), which became achievable after eliminating several empty spaces. Other distinguishing features include a small body compared to rotor and spool, a single gearbox without a side plate, and an integrated frame.

In addition to that, the reel is paired with a light rod. So, this fishing reel is unbelievably comfortable, even if you need to use it all day long. It fits well in the hands and provides excellent endurance.

Which of the light fishing reels is the best for catching a trout?

One of the best ultralight reels for trout fishing is Daiwa BG Trout. This aluminum spinning reel only weighs 2.54 lbs. It is available in different models to meet all fishermen’s needs.

The Daiwa company developed a reel that stands out with its high quality and forms customers’ top choice. It is suitable for both fresh and salt waters. Significant features of the Daiwa BG Trout reel are:

  • Compact design
  • Body and side cover are HardBodyz
  • Dynamic Cut Aluminum ABS line spool
  • Water-resistant dragging system
  • Anti-reverse system

Which fishing reel among the light ones is the best for catching crappie?

Based on customers’ feedback and experts’ reviews, one of the leading reels for crappie fishing is Shimano Stradic CI4+ 2500 FB HG. Despite feeling light in your hands, this reel is quite tough. It will not break or cause any problems, even if you need to use it excessively to get a fish with a temper.

Plus, there are some fascinating advantages of the Shimano Stradic CI4+ 2500 FB HG:

  • Magnumlite rotor
  • Remarkably strong
  • Renowned quality
  • Body made of strong carbon material
  • Pleasantly smooth operation
  • Waterproof protection of the core
  • Extremely durable

What ultralight spinning reel is the best to use in saltwater?

Penn Battle II 1000 is a great lightweight reel for saltwater, and its weight is only 8.1 oz.

Designed specifically for saltwater fishing, it has a full metal body and rotor. There is an HT-100 carbon fiber that ensures the reel’s remarkable durability. Plus, it is perfectly convenient to use in saltwater as well as freshwater.

Another great option is the Penn Fierce III saltwater fishing reel with a weight of 7.8 oz. Its metal body and side plates add to wire bail made of thick aluminum.

Is it possible to catch a bass with an ultralight fishing reel?

Yes, it is possible. However, for catching bass, the size of the reel has to be over 1000 and 2000. And, of course, that would require some luck and skills.

If that is your goal, below is some advice:

  1. Choose a reel that has the largest spool diameter.
  2. Besides, pay close attention to the sharpness of the hook.
  3. Try turning off the anti-reverse function for better control over the pressure.

What kind of rod suits an ultralight fishing reel?

There are several rods well-suitable for such a type of reel. One of them, for example, is Okuma Celilo Ultralight Graphite Trout Rod. It has good value for cost, which makes it so popular.

The rod has outstanding characteristics:

  • Made of sensitive graphite blank including a top-quality handle and a stainless-steel reel seat
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Offers different length models: 4 1/2′, 5′, 6′ or 6 1/2′

Are there any left-handed ultralight reels?

Yes, the majority of manufacturers cover most of the customers’ needs. That includes comfortable reels for left-handed people.

So, if needed, you can search for left-handed spinning reels online. There are usually plenty of them on Amazon and eBay.

Final Thoughts

final thoughts of ultralight spinning reels

Thanks to its spectacular performance, the KastKing Sharky III is the best all-around ultraweight spinning reel. It is easy to control and designed with anglers’ needs in mind. Even if you are just starting up, with a little practice, you will cast without a hinge.

Users Rating:
5 / 5.0
7 User Voted
Add Your Rating:
Comments (8)
By:
Jane J. Ray

Would any of the reels on the list good for large fish?

    By:
    Chris Hayes
    To:
    Jane J. Ray

    The lightweight reels aren’t usually that good for large fish. Yet, if you want something versatile, the KastKing Sharky III 5000 would be the best option, as it has the highest drag and is the most reliable.

By:
Daddy D.

Which spinning reel is the smallest and lightest? I’m looking for a super small reel, cause I don’t have too much space. I heard Daiwa Laguna would be smallest, though you didn’t mention it here. Is it not as good?

    By:
    Chris Hayes
    To:
    Daddy D.

    Well, Daiwa is, indeed, one of the smallest, but I personally prefer the Abu Garcia Revo I mentioned here. It might be a bit more expensive, but in terms of quality it surpasses a general Daiwa by a huge margin, as it’s more ergonomic, powerful and better build.

By:
Sunny Bunny

I’m looking for my first reel and have read a bunch of ultralight reels reviews, but I still can’t choose the one I want. If you were to choose one, which would you recommend?Which one would be the easiest to operate?

    By:
    Chris Hayes
    To:
    Sunny Bunny

    For a beginner like you, I’d say shoot for the Abu Garcia Revo. I, myself, have been using Revo for a while, and I enjoy every second. If you want a similar but cheaper option, choose Orra SX. Reels are similar but use different materials and mechanics. Orra SX is a bit cheaper, which is great if it’s your first reel, but less smooth.

By:
Grey Worm

How much money do I need to spend on one of those top ultralight spinning reels?

    By:
    Chris Hayes
    To:
    Grey Worm

    Good doesn’t mean expensive. If you are just starting off in fishing, plan to make short freshwater fishing trips, and don’t want to spend a fortune on a reel, just $50 will get you a high-performance, reliable reel. Yet, if you are in need of a heavy-duty reel, you might want to save up, cause the price can go up to a $1,000, but that’s a different topic.

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