Fishing is an expensive hobby but it doesn’t have to be. Premium spinning fishing reels can reach into the thousands of dollars but we have comprised a list of great quality spinning reels for under $100. We have used all three reels and tested most reels in this category under $100. Freshwater spinning reels have exploded in popularity and demand because of their ease of use, and excellent price points. Anyone can pick up a small spinning reel and with a bit of an instruction, be casting it across the pond or out in the lake in no time. If you are just starting out in fishing, any of these reels would be an excellent starter reel, pair it with the appropriate fishing rod, and you are ready to fish. There are many great reels under $100 but you can’t go wrong with these three.
Number 3 – Daiwa Exceller LT Spinning Reel
A smartly priced reel that can match the performance of many more expensive models. The Carbon Light Material Housing was designed with the LT concept of light but tough, in mind. The carbon-based material is light yet very strong making the reel easy to manage over the long haul. A machined aluminum handle is a comfortable, strong connection to the main gear of the spinning reel. The Air Rotor and Air Bail designs reduce the weight, yet efficiently disperse the pressure of the line over the bail to the whole part. The reel is extremely smooth utilizing 5 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing to maximize performance. In a world of you get what you pay for, the Daiwa Exceler LT series of reels gives you more design technology and concept then reels twice the price.
Our Review
The Daiwa Exceller is an excellent choice for any novice or beginner angler. This reel feels great while fishing and it probably has something to do with the 5BB+1, and all the other amazing technology in this reel. This reel comes with air bail, air rotor, automatic tournament drag, carbon light body, and a machine cut handle. This reel will keep up with a lot of higher end reels on the market.
A great option for beginner or novice anglers, the Nexave line of spinning reels combines Shimano quality with affordability. A comfortable new body design and attractive cosmetics, including an anodized and ported aluminum spool, add to the overall appeal of this versatile series of reels. The Nexave series also includes Shimano’s Propulsion Line Management System for increased casting distance. The Nexave is available in sizes from 1000 to 8000 providing anglers plenty of options for a variety of target species.
Our Review
This new reel by Shimano is a smooth spinning reel and it comes in well under $100. Shimano has truly done a great job at creating a spinning reel that is a affordable, durable, and with great quality. 3+1 bearings, and varying gear rations, this reel was a surprise as it came in at such an affordable price point. This reel features propulsion line management system for smoother and easier casting, reduces any back lash or knots. It is available in a number of sizes giving anglers lots of options to target many different species.
At the heart of the Sedona FI line of spinning reels is Shimano’s state-of-the-art technology, the HAGANE Gear. Incorporating HAGANE cold-forging technology into the Sedona FI gives it a step up from other reels in its class and provides long-lasting smoothness and durability for assured resilience even after countless battles with your target species. The Sedona FI series includes models for everything from light freshwater to heavier offshore species thanks to improved drag power and increased gear ratios. The 8000 model incorporates Shimano’s tougher Cross Carbon Drag to withstand rigorous pressure when battling large game fish. The Sedona FI’s enhanced spool design features Shimano’s Propulsion Line Management System for increased casting distance. The G-Free body shifts the reel’s center of gravity closer to the rod, translating to less fatigue during long days on the water as well as enhanced casting or jigging comfort. The Sedona FI is available in sizes from 500 to 8000.
Our Review – We went back to Shimano spinning reels for number one and for good reason. The Sedona has state of the art technology, and it shows when you are fishing with it. The HAGANE gear incorporates cold-forging technology and in turn will provide the angler with long lasting durability. This reel is sure to impress everyone from beginners to experienced fisherman. The 2500 weighs only 8.6 Oz and feels great in the hand. 3+1 bearings, propulsion line management system, cross carbon drag, we feel Shimano has incorporated a ton of technology for under $100.
Our final thoughts
We would recommend any of these three spinning reels to beginner or intermediate anglers. They are all available for a great price point at under $100, at any reputable tackle store.