10 Best Spinning Reels That You Can Buy Under $100

Being able to buy the best spinning reel under 100 is a privilege for the recreational angler. The reason is budget spinning reels are beyond the reach. But is it possible to get spinning reels below hundred bucks? Indeed!

You can do fishing in freshwater, inshore, offshore, and surf saltwater with spinning reels below 100. At this price range, you can find better-quality reels that provide ultimate speed and power. You can catch small to medium size fish.

However, many of us think that only expensive reels come with the best features. Your misconception will be apparent after reading this article. Here we've added the best spinning reels under $100 with the best features in them.

What you have to choose is the right one for your next fishing trip. The following reels come with different construction and functions. However, all reels in this price range will perform great for most kinds of fishing.

Price vs. Quality

When it comes to a reel under 100, you will have doubts about the quality. Besides, it is not surprising that cheaper reels will have average quality. With the price, the quality also goes up.

Let's say you find a Shimano reel worth $200-$500 and a Plueger reel worth $40-$60 on the market. Definitely, the Shimano reel has the more outstanding quality. But, would you like to spend ten times more on the best quality one?

The answer depends on your budget. Many people cannot afford the highest-priced one. That's why; the spinning reels below 100 are more selling than reels with a high price. We hope now you are clear about what to choose.

List of 10 Best Spinning Reel under 100

We've assembled the list of the best spinning reel under 100 with years of experience. We have done depth research and analyzed many spinning reels in the market. Take a look at the list.

A detailed review of the best spinning reel under 100

The value and features of the spinning reel you get at this price range can vary a lot. There are many junk reels camouflaged as the good. It can tough for a recreational angler like you to differentiate them.

Here is the recommended list of the best spinning reels that will help you. These budget spinning reels are great for weekend warriors who rarely get time for fishing. Read the following reviews and find one that fits your rod as well as your fishing style.

Different Parts of Spinning Reel

The spinning reel is a fishing reel mounted on a fishing rod. This fishing gear consists of different parts. If you are a newbie angler, you may not be familiar with these. However, each piece plays a significant role when it comes to catching and landing a fish.

Below are the major parts you'll find in a spinning reel.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Spinning Reel?

The spinning reel is an all-rounder fishing reel used for many purposes. It has become popular among people with all fishing styles and skill levels. Moreover, spinning reels perform better in all settings.

Most of the spinning reels in the market come with excellent versatility and ease of use. However, it can be difficult for an amateur angler to decide which one is the best spinning reel under 100.

Every spinning reel has its unique features and attributes. Knowing them will help you find the suitable one for you. You should be aware of the following things when buying a spinning reel.

What is the reel made of?

The quality construction ensures the best-quality performance. It is very much applicable for a spinning reel. The solid construction of the reel ensures dependable performance.

Usually, the spinning reel body is made of graphite or aluminum. Aluminum is better resistant to corrosion which makes it durable. This is why; aluminum-made reels are preferable for demanding environments like saltwater fishing.

Graphite, on the other hand, is lightweight. Therefore, they are more suitable for lighter conditions like freshwater fishing. A spinning reel should have a strong bail wire for strength and smooth operation, along with a solid body.

Drag Systems

The drag system's quality greatly affects the overall performance of the reel. Especially in the more giant reels, a sound drag system is crucial for catching sizable fish breeds. This is because it aims to hold the fishing line rigidly when a fish attacks the lure.

Then, it allows the fishing line to come off the spool. A tight drag system means the fishing line will come off slowly. Conversely, loose drag means the cable will come off quickly. It is more like a car brake system.

You'll need a smoother drag system to catch larger fishes on petite boundaries. A lack of smooth drags could lead you to miss the fish because the line gets distorted. A spinning reel has two types of drag systems – the front and the rear.

Front drag system: A dial controls the front drag system, and it uses large washers. As a result, it provides excellent drag strength. Also, it is easier to adjust the drag settings while fighting a fish.

Rear drag system: A knob controls the rear drag. You can easily adjust it on the fly while catching a fish. Moreover, it works great while you use lighter tackle and line.

The best spinning reel with adjustable drags allows you to turn the dial or knob to choose your preferred tension. All the reels we've listed above have a remarkably smooth drag system.

Line Capacity and Spool Size

For the best fishing experience, it is essential to get the spinning reel in sync with the rod. So the angler can use it for any fishing demands. However, the line capacity of the reel has a direct impact on the spool size.

The line capacity enhances as you increase the size of the spool. There are two different spool capacities in a line, one is for braided line, and the other is for monofilament.

Braided lines come with a smaller diameter but a higher level of strength. You'll get a second spool with some reels to use for emergencies. Nevertheless, the line capacity should be matched with the reel's capacity.

If you use the light line on a high-capacity reel, it can cause tangles and spool issues. Likewise, using a heavy line on a light capacity reel leads to reduced line length. As a result, you cannot use it to tackle severe conditions.

Spool Design

There are two types of spool you'll find in modern spinning reels. The reels are designed with either skirted spools or internal spools. Skirted reels provide similar performance to older spools.

Also, it is suitable for anglers of all skill levels. However, internal spools are inclined to tangling. Besides, it has some performance issues if not used properly. Still, some expert anglers prefer internal spools.

Gear Ratio

Gears ratio denotes the number of rotations made by the bail wire around the spool per rotation by the handle. As an example, a reel with a 4:1 gear ratio means the bail wire will rotate four times with a single rotation made by the handle.

A reel with a 4:1 gear ratio provides slower retrieves. If you need to use it for faster retrieves, choose a reel with a high gear ratio, such as 6:1. In most spin fishing conditions, you'll need a reel with a 5:1 gear ratio.

Ball Bearings

A spinning reel usually has four or five bearings. The number of ball bearings doesn't affect the performance of the reel. Quantity doesn't matter, but quality does. High-quality ball bearings provide smooth operation and make the reel easy to use.

They are resistant to corrosion and suitable for saltwater fishing. It is better to have fewer great-quality bearings than many low-quality bearings. Cheaper reels with jerky bearings give a frustrating fishing experience.

Anti-reverse Mechanism

An anti-reverse mechanism in the handle is needed to keep the handle from spinning backward. It is controlled by a lever or switch located near the reel's butt. A reel whose handle doesn't have any backward rotation is the safest.

Any reverse motion shouldn't affect the handle if you try to stop the reel. So how to understand if the reel's grip doesn't move backward? Simple by shifting the reel's hand in the forward direction, then reverse it gently.

If you see the handle is backing up, it means there is an issue. Moreover, check if the handle has a long handle along with a large knob. So you can hold it even when your hands are wet.

Above all, the anti-reverse feature works together with the drag system. It ensures the line is tight and secure when you try to set the hook and start fighting a big fish.

Weight and Comfort

The weight depends on the material the reel is made of. Usually, spinning reel frames are made of aluminum, plastic, magnesium, or carbon. The best spinning reel under 100 is commonly used for aluminum or plastic.

Both materials increase the overall weight of the reel. But, you can use heavier reels if you learn to adjust them with your wrists. High-end reels are made of carbon or magnesium that are lightweight as well as durable.

Moreover, a reel with basic ergonomics ensures comfort for day-long fishing. For added convenience, it is advisable to pick spinning reels with right and left-hand retrieval.

Final Words

Fishing is the best way to have a great time alone or with a loved one. In addition, you can gain good experience and sometimes even money. Thankfully, this is possible now, even if you are on a tight budget. It is now easy to find the best spinning reel under 100.

FAQ

1. What is the best spinning reel under $100?

We found Abu Garcia Revo X as the best out of all fishing reels available in the market. The reel is lightweight and comes in a sleek, all-black finish. With the smooth retrieval action, it is suitable for long bass fishing sessions.

2. What is the best spinning reel for the money?

The best spinning reel for the money is the one that serves you in the long run on a budget. Also, the reel doesn't require frequent change. Lew's American Hero spin reel is one of the popular reels for the money. It is lightweight and capable of holding your next trophy catch in the freshwater.

3. What size spinning reel should I get?

Before you go fishing, it is essential to get the right-sized spinning reel along. What size you should acquire depends on the type of fishing you are planning to do. Also, where you'll be going for fishing, freshwater or saltwater?

Small-sized reels (1000-3500) are suitable for lightweight rods ranging 6-7 feet. These reels are ideal for 2-10lb monofilament and 4-14lb braid lines. With a small-sized reel, you can target up to 15lbs of small species.

Medium-sized reels (4000-5500) are suitable for 7-8 foot rods. You can target up to 30lbs of medium-sized species with it. These reels work best with 8-14lb monofilament and 10-25lb braided lines.

Last, of all, large-sized spinning reels (6000-30000) are ideal for up to 150+ lbs. large species. These work best with 12-60lb monofilament and 24-100lb braid lines. Large-sized reels are suitable for heavy rods and are used in heavy applications like surf fishing, boat fishing, etc.

4. Why is Baitcaster better than spinning?

The first reason why Braitcaster is better than spinning reel is its performance. Baitcaster is designed for a more extended cast and can handle heavier lines than spinning reels of the same size. A small spinning includes a more minor and narrow spool. Therefore, it becomes difficult for small spinning reels to handle large-diameter lines.

Small baitcasting reels, on the other hand, can handle more extensive diameter lines better. In addition, it gives you a better casting distance. Lastly, baitcaster has proficiency over distance and accuracy in the long run.

5. What's the difference between Baitcast and spinning reels?

The line on a spinning reel comes off the spool away from the rod. Conversely, the line on a bait caster reel comes off directly in line with the rod. Moreover, the braitcast reels can handle heavier lines better than spinning reels.

Baitcasting requires the more experienced angler to control the severe conditions. A spinning reel is great for starters as it can throw lighter lures away. Another difference is the weight of both reels. Baitcasting reels are a lot lighter than spinning reels.

6. Is the Shimano Sahara a saltwater reel?

Yes, Shimano Sahara is a quality fishing reel designed for use in saltwater. However, it also performs excellently in freshwater. With the smooth operation, Shimano Sahara will give you satisfying fishing experiences.