Best Open Face Fishing Reel 2023

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

Finding the best open-face fishing reel can be a challenge. There are too many open face fishing reels on the market that it is difficult to know which one is best for you.

To make things easier, we will be looking at different types of open-face fishing reels, looking at their pros and cons. You should always do your research before purchasing an item so you know what to expect, without doing your research it can be difficult to know if you have made a decision that will work in the long run.

The best open face fishing reel is not just about the size of the actual reel, it’s also about the fishing rod that will be attached to it.

If you are an angler looking for the best open face fishing reel for your fishing rod, then you should consider different types of reels including baitcasting reels, spinning reels, and fly fishing reels. A few other points to keep in mind are your preferred style of fish and the types of fish you hope to catch.

We will look at each type of reel separately in order to help you find the perfect one for your needs.

Do you enjoy fishing but don’t want to deal with the hassle of a full-sized reel? If so, an open face fishing reel may be perfect for you. These reels are typically smaller and easier to use, making them a great choice for novice anglers. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best open face fishing reels available today.

Best Open Face Fishing Reel Reviews

In this article, we will take a look at the best open face fishing reels on the market and provide an overview of their features. We hope that this information will help you choose the right reel for your needs.

1# Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel

Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 8+1

The Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel is perfect for anglers who demand the best in performance and quality. It features a one-piece X-crafting aluminium gearbox, computer-optimized machined aluminium gears, and a lightweight graphite rotor with Everlast bail.

The Rocket line management system ensures efficient and smooth line transfer, while the braid-ready machined aluminium spool provides easy lure attachment. The 8 stainless steel HPCR bearings plus 1 roller bearing provide optimal smoothness and power, while the K-Clutch anti-reverse delivers consistent drag pressure throughout the cast. And with its carbon matrix hybrid drag system, this reel can handle even the most challenging fish with ease.

Pros
  • Best-in-Class drag system

  • Smooth retrieve

  • 10 stainless steel bearings

  • Lightweight design

Cons
  • The bail wire is a little too flimsy

  • It’s not the best option for saltwater fishing

2# Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel

Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.8:1
Ball Bearings: 12+1

The Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel is an excellent reel for your next big game fishing adventure! With its Magsealed body and 12+1 bearing system, this reel provides smooth performance and power, while the oversized aluminium handle knob ensures easy handling in any situation. So don’t wait any longer – get yourself a Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel today!

Pros
  • Smooth reeling

  • Strong drag system

  • Saltwater resistant

Cons
  • High Price

3# Shimano Vanford Spinning Reel

Shimano Vanford Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.6:1, 5.1:1, 6.0:1, 6.4:1

Shimano Vanford Spinning Reels is suitable for anglers of all levels. From ice fishing to bass fishing, these reels have impressive features and a lightweight design that will make your time on the water more enjoyable. The cross carbon drag system ensures smooth, consistent performance, while the X-protect water-resistance technology keeps your reel functioning flawlessly in any condition.

Pros
  • Lightweight design makes it easy to use

  • Cross carbon drag system ensures smooth, consistent performance

  • X-protect water-resistance technology keeps the reel functioning flawlessly in any condition

Cons
  • Heavy

4# Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel

Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left
Gear Ratio: 5.8:1
Ball Bearings: 9+1
Max Drag: 66 Lbs.

Looking for a reel that can take on saltwater fish with ease? Look no further than the Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel. Featuring 66 lbs. of drag power and a Hydro Sealed body and drag, this reel is designed to handle even the biggest fish out there.

The Forged aluminium body, side plate, and rotor are coated in full-body corrosion-resistant coating to ensure longevity, while the Machined aluminium anodized spool with LCS lip provides excellent line control. With a 9 + 1 system with HPB bearings and dual anti-reverse, this reel is packed with features to make your fishing trip a success. So come on – cast your line and see what Makaira can do!

Pros
  • 66 lbs of drag power

  • Hydro Sealed body and drag

  • Forged aluminium body, side plate, and rotor

  • Machined aluminium anodized spool with LCS lip

  • 9 + 1 system with HPB bearings and dual anti-reverse

Cons
  • The Reel’s line capacity is not very high, with just 165 yards of 10 lb. mono

  • It does not have any visible spool tensioning system, which can be seen as a disadvantage by some fishermen

5# PENN Clash II Spinning Reel

PENN Clash II Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 7.0:1
Ball Bearings: 8+1

Introducing the PENN Clash II spinning reel – a hard-charging reel designed to handle anything an inshore quarry can dish out. The Full Metal Body and sideplate construction is solid, while the Hydrophobic Line Roller Bearing and Clutch Armor System keep contaminants at bay.

The advanced CNC Gear Technology provides smooth operation, while the 8+1 system with stainless steel bearings ensures long-lasting performance. Add in the high-performance HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers, and you’ve got a reel that’s ready to take on any fish or saltwater challenge.

Pros
  • Hard-charging reel designed to handle anything

  • Solid construction

  • Hydrophobic Line Roller Bearing and Clutch Armor System keep contaminants at bay

  • Advanced CNC Gear Technology provides smooth operation

  • 8+1 system with stainless steel bearings ensures long-lasting performance

  • High-performance HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers

Cons
  • The Penn Clash II is heavier than other models

  • It lacks a drag knob, which can make it difficult to adjust the settings on the fly

  • It does not come with an extra spool

6# Shimano Stella FJ Spinning Reel

Shimano Stella FJ Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.0:1, 6.4:1, 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 12+1
Max Drag: 20 Lbs.

The Shimano Stella FJ Spinning Reel is the pinnacle of spinning reel performance. It offers super smoothness, silent operation, and incredible strength – perfect for even the most demanding anglers. The Superior Corrosion Protection ensures that your reel will stay in great condition, while the X-Protect feature keeps it safe from water infiltration.

The MicroModule Gear II system provides ultra-smooth gear changes, while the Extra-strong Hagane gearing ensures long-lasting power. The SilentDrive system keeps your line moving quietly without disturbing fish, and the Redesigned rotor creates less friction for smoother operation. The Low Friction Roller Clutch minimizes torque on your line, while the DLC Line Roller protects it from wear and tear.

Pros
  • Super smoothness

  • Silent operation

  • Incredible strength

  • Perfect for demanding anglers

  • Superior Corrosion Protection

  • The X-Protect feature keeps the reel safe from water infiltration

  • MicroModule Gear II system provides ultra-smooth gear changes

  • Extra-strong Hagane gearing ensures long-lasting power

Cons
  • The reel is a bit pricey

  • Some anglers may find it too smooth for their needs

7# Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel

Pflueger XT President Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 6.2:1

The Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel is perfect for anglers looking for a high-quality reel that is also light and smooth. It has been enhanced with features like a braid-ready spool and a strong carbon handle, making it one of the best values on the water.

Pros
  • Smooth performance

  • Has a braid-ready spool and is strong enough for braided line

  • Carbon handle

Cons
  • The carbon handle may break if improperly handled

8# Daiwa Fuego LT Spinning Reel

Daiwa LT Fuego Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.3:1, 5.2:1
Ball Bearings: 6+1

The Daiwa Fuego LT Spinning Reel is designed with ergonomics in mind. Its machined aluminium handle can be adapted to right- or left-hand retrieve, and its sleek design is both strong and durable. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to carry around thanks to its carbon-infused housing.

With an Air Rotor and Air Bail, the reel delivers extremely smooth performance, while the DigiGear computer-driven gear design ensures precision accuracy. The Magsealed technology protects the main shaft from moisture and corrosion, making it a great choice for avid anglers. And if that wasn’t enough, the Fuego LT comes with a powerful drag system for those big catches.

Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to carry around

  • The sleek design is both strong and durable

  • Machined aluminium handle can be adapted to right- or left-hand retrieve

  • Air Rotor and Air Bail deliver extremely smooth performance

  • Magsealed technology protects the main shaft from moisture and corrosion

Cons
  • It can be challenging to adapt the handle to left-handed retrieve

9# Shimano TwinPower SW Spinning Reel

Shimano SW TwinPower Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.7:1, 5.6:1, 4.9:1
Ball Bearings: 10+1

Shimano TwinPower SW spinning reels are built on a rugged Hagane body with an advanced Infinity Drive system for ultimate performance. X-Shield technology keeps salt water away from the internals, ensuring smooth retrieves. Lighter models incorporate the proven-tough Cross Carbon Drag stack, while the larger 10000 and 14000 models boast Shimano’s extreme Heatsink Drag, which aggressively dissipates frictional heat away from both the spool and the line.

Pros
  • Hagane Body for ultimate performance

  • X-Shield technology keeps salt water away from the internals

  • Incorporates the proven-tough Cross Carbon Drag stack

  • Shimano’s extreme Heatsink Drag aggressively dissipates frictional heat

Cons
  • None

10# Lew’s KVD Spinning Reel

Lew's KVD Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 9+1

Cast out with the Lew’s KVD Spinning Reel and experience unmatched power and precision. This top-of-the-line reel features a Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing for consistent smoothness, while the S-curve oscillation system ensures accurate line placement. The thick aluminium bail wire keeps your line tangle-free, while the double anodized knurled machined aluminium spool provides added durability. The Smooth, powerful, and consistent DuraMax drag system allows you to easily land big fish.

Pros
  • Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing for consistent smoothness

  • S-curve oscillation system ensures accurate line placement

  • Thick aluminium bail wire keeps your line tangle-free

  • Double anodized knurled machined aluminium spool provides added durability

  • Smooth, powerful, and consistent DuraMax drag system

Cons
  • Reels don’t come in small sizes

  • Heavier than most comparable reels

11# Tsunami Shield Spinning Reel

Tsunami Shield Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 4.9:1, 5.1:1
Ball Bearings: 4+1

The Tsunami Shield Spinning Reel is designed for saltwater use, with tight seals to keep the salt out. With 10-13 internal shields to protect critical components, it’s ready for whatever you throw at it. The heavy-duty bail and machined aluminium spool make sure your line doesn’t skip a beat, while the CF3 carbon-fiber drag system provides smooth, strong performance.

Pros
  • Supports saltwater use

  • Heavy-duty bail and machined aluminium spool

  • CF3 carbon-fiber drag system

Cons
  • The reel is not designed for freshwater use

12# Daiwa BG Spinning Reel

Daiwa BG Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1, 5.7:1, 5.3:1
Ball Bearings: 6+1

Daiwa BG spinning reels are tough, lightweight, and well-balanced for a smooth cast every time. With its oversized gears and carbon ATD drag system, this reel can handle any fish you might encounter – from freshwater to saltwater. The Hardbodyz body and side cover keep your gear looking good as new season after season.

Pros
  • Lightweight and well-balanced for a smooth cast

  • Oversized gears and carbon ATD drag system can handle any fish

  • Hardbodyz body and side cover keep your gear looking new

Cons
  • It may be too lightweight for some anglers

13# Lew’s Speed Spin Spinning Reel

Lew's Speed Spin Spinning Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 6.2:1, 5.3:1
Ball Bearings: 6+1, 9+1

When it comes to your next fishing trip, you need a reel that can handle whatever fish you’re trying to catch. With its rugged graphite body and skeletal graphite rotor, the Lew’s Speed Spin Spinning Reel can take on any terrain – and any fish. Plus, its double-anodized aluminium spool ensures smooth, reliable performance all day long. And with its fold-down aluminium handle and Combat Grip, this reel is easy to use – even when your hands are wet.

Pros
  • Graphite body and skeletal graphite rotor can take on any terrain

  • Double-anodized aluminium spool ensures smooth, reliable performance

  • Fold-down aluminium handle and Combat Grip make it easy to use

Cons
  • The spool is anodized aluminium, which could potentially corrode over time

14# Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Series Spinning Reel

Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.0:1, 5.7:1
Ball Bearings: 9+1

The Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Series Spinning Reel is one of the highest-quality and most affordable reels on the market. It features a strong and smooth 1-piece aluminium frame, a perfectly balanced rotor, and super-lightweight construction. The Micro-Pitched Gearing System ensures effortless power transmission, while the 10-bearing (9+1) system provides ultra-smooth performance. The included Powerlock instant anti-reverse makes for easy braking, and the water-resistant 6-disc felt/aluminium drag ensures consistent casting control in any environment.

Pros
  • Strong and Smooth 1-Piece Aluminium Frame

  • Perfectly Balanced Rotor

  • Super Lightweight Construction

  • Micro Pitched Gearing System for Effortless Power Transmission

  • 9+1 Bearing in Gearbox for Ultra Smoot Performance in any Environment

  • Includes Instant Anti Reverse (Power Lock) to Easily Brake (Easier Casting Control)

Cons
  • It can be difficult to get replacement parts

15# Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 5.1:1
Ball Bearings: 7+1

Introducing the Mitchell 300 spinning reel – a top-quality reel designed for serious anglers. With its machined, double-anodized aluminium spool, 8 bearing system, and powerful multi-disk drag system, this reel is tough enough to handle any fishing situation. And with its performance, it’s easy to make those critical catches. So don’t settle for anything less than the best – get the Mitchell 300 spinning reel today.

Pros
  • High-quality construction

  • 8 bearing system for smooth performance

  • Multi-disk drag system for powerful fishing

Cons
  • It can be less responsive than other reels

FAQ

What are open face reels good for?
Open face reels are perfect for beginners or those who are looking for a more relaxed fishing experience. Because the line is visible, it’s easy to see when a fish bites, which makes it easier to set the hook. They’re also great for panfish since they can’t handle large fish.
Is open or closed reel better?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are pros and cons to both open and closed reels. Some anglers prefer open reels because they offer more line capacity and are easier to use for long casts. Closed reels, on the other hand, are more durable and can handle larger fish. Ultimately, it is up to the individual angler to decide which reel is best for them.
How do you use an open-face reel?
– Set the tension by rotating the star drag button clockwise to increase it or counterclockwise to decrease it.

– Position your lure next to your rod’s guide when you cast

– Rotate the reel handle in a long, controlled back and forth motion until you cast

– Remember that when fishing with an open-face reel, release the tension slowly when retrieving your lure from the water

– Hold it tight while fighting a catch.

How does an open fishing reel work?
An open fishing reel, also known as a “spin cast reel,” is simple to operate. The line is released by a button on the top of the reel, and the bail (wire hoop) spins around to wind the line back onto the spool. When you’re ready to cast again, just press the button and release it quickly; this will send the lure flying further than if you slowly let go of the button.

Conclusion

It can be difficult to know which open face fishing reel is the best for your needs. This buyer’s guide provides in-depth information about open face fishing reels, as well as reviews of some of the top-rated models on the market. We hope that this article will help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next open face fishing reel. Thank you for reading!

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

Affiliate Disclosure: FishReeler.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Ebay, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shop, Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, Renn, Okuma, KastKing, etс. Clicking a link helps keep FishReeler.com free, at no extra cost to you!

About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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