Best Spinning Reel For Salmon Fishing 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!

If you’re an avid angler looking for a new spinning reel, stop right here. Our company has the best spinning reel for salmon fishing on the market. You can even customize your reel with your favorite color!

Having a spinning reel is one of the most important parts of salmon fishing. A spinning reel ensures that you have more control over your fishing line, which can be a real-life saver when fighting a big fish.

There are many spinning reels available on the market today and it can be really hard to determine which one is best for you. In this article, we will talk about what makes a good spinning reel and why it’s so important for salmon fishing.

Salmon is one of the most popular fish to catch, and there are plenty of ways to go about it. Of all the methods, spin fishing for salmon may just be the most enjoyable. When it comes to choosing a spinning reel for salmon fishing, you want something that will stand up to big catches and handle fish in some serious line.

Best Spinning Reel for Salmon Fishing Reviews

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best spinning reels for salmon fishing on the market today and what makes them so special. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right reel for your needs. So if you’re gearing up for some salmon action, read on!

1# 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 one of the most advanced and well-engineered reels on the market. Its one-piece aluminium body is incredibly strong and completely watertight, thanks to Magsealing technology. The air rotor and air bail are also made from lightweight aluminium, for maximum strength with minimal weight. The G1 Duralumin machine-cut gears provide incredible power and precision, while the 13-bearing system ensures smooth, accurate performance. The high-powered Advanced Tournament Drag provides up to 28 lbs of drag power, letting you land even the biggest fish. And the oversized aluminium handle knob ensures a comfortable grip even when your hands are wet.

Pros
  • One-piece aluminium body is incredibly strong and completely watertight

  • Magsealing technology prevents water infiltration

  • Air rotor and air bail are made from lightweight aluminium for maximum strength

  • G1 Duralumin machine-cut gears provide incredible power and precision

  • 13 bearing system ensures smooth, accurate performance

  • High-powered Advanced Tournament Drag provides up to 28 lbs of drag power

Cons
  • Lack of a clicker means it’s hard to know when you’ve reached the end of your line

2# Shimano Stella SW Spinning Reel

Shimano Stella SW Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1, 4.9:1, 6.2:1, 5.7:1
Ball Bearings: 13+1

Shimano Stella SW spinning reels are the toughest, smoothest, and most durable spinning reels in the saltwater. With an IPX8-rated waterproof body, rigid all-metal HAGANE Body, inertia-reducing X-Rigid Rotor design, and X-Protect water-resistant roller protection, these reels can handle anything you throw at them. The propulsion line management system ensures smooth long casts, while the infinity drive torque enhancement system provides amazing power for big fish. The silent drive internal meshing and x-ship bearing-enhanced gear support keep your lines whisper-quiet even when battling the biggest fish with up to 55 lbs of max drag pressure.

Pros
  • IPX8-rated waterproof body

  • Rigid all-metal HAGANE Body

  • Inertia-reducing X-Rigid Rotor design

  • X-Protect water-resistant roller protection

  • Smooth long casts

  • Infinity drive torque enhancement system

  • Silent drive internal meshing

Cons
  • The high price tag

  • The need for regular maintenance

3# Shimano TwinPower SW Spinning Reel

Shimano TwinPower SW Spinning Reel

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Specification

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Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.7:1, 5.6:1, 4.9:1
Ball Bearings: 10+1

Shimano’s TwinPower SW Reel is purpose-built for conquering big fish. From the Hagane aluminium body and gearing to the powerful Cross Carbon Drag, this reel delivers tournament-grade performance. Plus, the X-Shield and Heatsink Drag system keeps things running smoothly even when things get heated.

Pros
  • Hagane aluminium body and gearing for durability

  • Cross Carbon Drag system for power

  • X-Shield and Heatsink Drag system prevents overheating

Cons
  • May be too powerful for some anglers

4# PENN Battle III Spinning Reel

PENN Battle III Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.6:1, 4.7:1, 4.2:1, 7.0:1
Ball Bearings: 5+1

The PENN Battle III Spinning Reel is engineered for superior performance and durability. It features a full metal body and side plate, along with CNC Gear Technology that ensures smooth, consistent power transmission. The reel also has a 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball-bearing system, as well as HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers to provide impressive stopping power. Plus, the Hagane aluminium body and gearing create a lifelong reel that you can count on for years of hard-fishing action.

Pros
  • Superior performance and durability

  • Full metal body and side plate

  • CNC Gear Technology

  • 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball-bearing system

  • HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers

  • Hagane aluminium body and gearing

Cons
  • It may have a slow retrieval rate

5# Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel

Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.0:1, 5.7:1
Ball Bearings: 10+1

Looking for a top-of-the-line spinning reel that can outperform more expensive models? Look no further than the Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel. This reel is designed with a one-piece aluminium frame that resists torque and keeps gears in perfect alignment, while the lightweight rotor distributes stress evenly. It also features a hollow stainless steel bail wire and forged, double-anodized aluminium spool for added strength and precision. Plus, our digitally designed Micro-Pitched Gearing System delivers smoothness and power you can count on, even when fighting large fish.

Pros
  • Active drag knob

  • Titanium frame

  • Very durable

  • Best value for money

Cons
  • None

6# Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel

Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel

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Specification

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Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 8+1

Introducing the Abu Garcia Revo SX spinning reel – the next generation of performance and durability. This reel is built with a one-piece X-crafting aluminium gearbox, computer-optimized machined aluminium gears, and a lightweight graphite rotor, for unbeatable power and precision.

The Rocket line management system ensures smooth, accurate casts every time, while the Braid-ready machined aluminium spool allows you to use superlines without any backing. And with 8 stainless steel HPCR bearings + 1 roller bearing and the Carbon Matrix hybrid drag system, you can take on even the biggest fish with ease. So don’t wait – order your Abu Garcia Revo SX spinning reel today!

Pros
  • One-piece X-crafting aluminium gearbox

  • Computer-optimized machined aluminium gears

  • Lightweight graphite rotor

  • Rocket line management system

  • Braid-ready machined aluminium spool

  • Carbon Matrix hybrid drag system

Cons
  • Heavy

7# Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel

Pflueger President XT 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 light and smooth, with extreme comfort and balance. The aluminium main shaft is 30% lighter than stainless steel, while the aluminium pinion gear weighs 60% less than brass. The strong carbon handle is 21% lighter than aluminium, making this reel easy to use all day long. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings offer a smooth, reliable drag system, and the braid-ready spool means you can use any type of line you prefer.

Pros
  • Light and Smooth

  • Extreme Comfort and Balance

  • 30% Less Weight than Steel Main Shaft

  • 60% Less Weight than Brass Pinion Gear

  • Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel Ball Bearings Offer Smooth, Reliable Drag System

  • Braid Ready Spool

Cons
  • It can be difficult to find replacement parts

8# Offshore Angler Frigate II Spinning Reel

Offshore Angler Frigate II Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 4.9:1
Ball Bearings: 7+1

The Frigate II spinning reel is perfect for experienced anglers who demand the very best in design, performance and durability. It features a durable all-aluminium frame and rotor, brass and zinc alloy gearing, and an 8-bearing system with Powerlock instant anti-reverse. The carbon fibre/PTFE drag system ensures smooth, consistent drag power when fighting big fish. The machined anodized aluminium handle provides a comfortable grip while fishing all day long.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Smooth Operation

  • Precise Drag System

  • Rugged Construction

Cons
  • May not be suitable for beginners

  • Lacks a clutch

9# Daiwa Fuego LT Spinning Reel

Daiwa Fuego LT 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 a great choice for professional anglers. Its sleek design and lightweight carbon-infused housing make it strong and durable, while its air rotor and air bail provide superior performance. The digger computer-driven gear design assures a smooth, buttery experience, while the magsealed technology protects the main shaft. The extreme drag system provides an incredibly powerful braking force, and the ergonomic machined aluminium handle ensures a comfortable grip. This reel adapts to either right- or left-hand retrieve with ease.

Pros
  • Durability: This reel is pretty heavy duty and will last a long time

  • Quality: We love the quality of this reel

  • Price: This reel is an affordable product that won’t break the bank

  • Smoothness: You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how smooth this fishing reel operates

Cons
  • Weight: This reel is a little on the heavy side

  • Memory: The memory feature was not designed for this model

10# Lew’s Mach 2 Spinning Reels

Lew's Mach 2 Spinning Reels

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 9+1

The Mach 2 spinning reel from Lew’s is designed for serious anglers. With a smooth-rolling 10-bearing system, Zero Reverse, and DuraMax drag system, it delivers powerful and smooth performance every time. The C40 carbon skeletal speed rotor with aluminium bail wire ensures quick retrieval, while the S-curve oscillation system ensures accurate line delivery. The solid brass pinion gear and stainless steel main shaft provide durability and strength, while the double-anodized, knurled aluminium spool provides added stability and control. And with its adjustability for right- or left-hand retrieve, the Mach 2 is perfect for any angler.

Pros
  • Smooth-rolling 10-bearing system

  • Zero Reverse

  • DuraMax drag system

  • C40 carbon skeletal speed rotor with an aluminium bail wire

  • S-curve oscillation system

  • Solid brass pinion gear and stainless steel main shaft

  • Double anodized, knurled aluminium spool

Cons
  • The colour can be a bit off-putting for some

  • They are only available in one size

11# Pflueger President XT Limited Edition Spinning Reel

Pflueger President XT Limited Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 9+1

The Pflueger President XT Limited Edition Spinning Reel is one of the most sought-after versions of this high-quality reel. It offers a graphite body and rotor for superior performance, as well as a braid-ready spool that makes it easy to use with a braided line. The aluminium main shaft and pinion gear provide durability, while the sealed drag ensures smooth operation even when wet. Plus, the carbon-fibre handle with a rosewood knob looks great and feels great in your hand.

Pros
  • Superior performance

  • Graphite body and rotor for durability

  • Braid-ready spool

  • Smooth sealed drag

  • Carbon fibre handle

Cons
  • The reel is too light for some anglers

  • Some people have had trouble with the quality of the construction

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

The Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is a professional-grade reel designed for both fresh- and saltwater use. Its Hardbodyz body and side cover are incredibly durable, while its lightweight Air Rotor design ensures smooth, balanced performance. Oversized Digigear machine-cut gears provide outstanding power and durability, while the Braid-ready Dynamic Cut aluminium ABS spool ensures easy braid attachment. The Quality 7-bearing (6+1) system delivers unbeatable smoothness and reliability, and the Waterproof Carbon ATD drag system provides incredible stopping power. The machined aluminium screw-in handle is incredibly tough and provides excellent grip in any condition.

Pros
  • Hardbody body and side cover are incredibly durable

  • Lightweight Air Rotor design ensures smooth, balanced performance

  • Waterproof Carbon ATD drag system provides incredible stopping power

  • Machined aluminium screw-in handle is incredibly tough

  • Targeted at both Fresh water and Saltwater

Cons
  • The reel is a little heavy

  • The line guide sometimes moves out of position

13# Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel

Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 5.3:1, 4.9:1
Ball Bearings: 7+1

The Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel was designed with the professional angler in mind. It features 8 PT bearings, hybrid ceramic bearings in high-load areas, a sealed Magnum CSC drag system, and a sealed Magnum clutch. The TiMag titanium bail system is fail-proof and has a magnetic trip. The LMS line management system ensures smooth operation.

The SaltGuard 2.0 multi-layer corrosion protection keeps your reel functioning in even the most challenging environments. The SCR™ alloy body and side cover are super-hard and incredibly durable. And the SCR alloy rotor on 60 and 80 models provides incredible strength for big fish battle. Finally, the carbon fibre composite rotor on 40 and 50 models reduces weight without sacrificing.

Pros
  • Lightweight and well-balanced

  • Smooth retrieve with all types of bait

  • Excellent drag system

  • Rigid bail arm for improved line control

  • Quick and easy backlash adjustment

Cons
  • It can be difficult to find replacement parts

14# Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel

Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel

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Specification

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

With its advanced tournament drag (ATD), Digigear technology, and lightweight construction, the Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel is perfect for serious anglers. Whether you’re fishing in freshwater or inshore, this reel gives you a competitive edge thanks to its long cast ABS spool and generous cut-outs in the rotor.

Pros
  • Advanced tournament drag

  • Digigear technology

  • Lightweight construction

  • Long cast ABS spool

  • Generous cut-outs in the rotor

Cons
  • The reel is a little bit on the expensive side

  • It might be too lightweight for some anglers

15# Penn Fierce III Spinning Reel

Penn Fierce III Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 5.6:1, 5.3:1
Ball Bearings: 4+1

Penn Fierce III Spinning Reel is a powerful reel designed to handle hard-charging game fish. It’s built around Penn’s legendary HT-100™ carbon fibre drag washers, ensuring smooth operation and superior drag. With its full metal body and side plates, heavy-duty aluminium bail wire, and braid-ready spool with line capacity rings, this reel gives inshore anglers maximum value for their money.

Pros
  • Smooth, durable drag system

  • Lightweight and well-balanced for easy handling

  • Rigid aluminium bail wire with a titanium nitride coating for exceptional corrosion resistance

  • Machine-cut gears for precision performance

Cons
  • The reel has an unhelpful oiling system that is challenging to use, which makes maintenance difficult

16# Shimano Baitrunner D Offshore Spinning Reel

Shimano Baitrunner D Offshore Spinning Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 4.8:1
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Max Drag: 20 Lbs.

The Shimano Baitrunner D Offshore Spinning Reel is a professional-level reel that features a secondary drag system that allows you to free-spool with the bail closed. Plus, its Propulsion Line Management System ensures smooth and accurate casts every time. Shielded A-RB ball bearings make it resistant to corrosion, while the Full S Concept design provides long-lasting performance. Fluidrive II gearing and Varispeed oscillation round out this top-of-the-line reel, making it perfect for serious anglers. Super Stopper instant anti-reverse gives you an edge when fighting fish, while the Dartainium dual drag system ensures smoothness and power.

Pros
  • Propulsion Line Management System ensures smooth and accurate casts every time

  • Shielded A-RB ball bearings make it resistant to corrosion

  • Full S Concept design provides long-lasting performance

  • Fluidrive II gearing and Varispeed oscillation for smoothness and power

  • Super Stopper instant anti-reverse for an edge while fighting fish

Cons
  • It can be difficult to use this reel in saltwater

  • There have been complaints about its casting distance

17# Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, 5.1:1
Ball Bearings: 7+1

Mitchell 300 spinning reel – this bad boy sports a machined, double-anodized aluminium spool, 8 bearing system (including instant anti-reverse), a powerful multi-disk drag system, and an aluminium handle with a co-moulded knob. The innovative bail Halo ensures snag-free operation, while the multi-disk drag system provides smooth, consistent power on big fish.

Pros
  • Machined, double-anodized aluminium spool

  • 8 bearing system (including instant anti-reverse)

  • Powerful multi-disk drag system

  • Aluminium handle with a co-moulded knob

  • Innovative bail Halo ensures snag-free operation

  • Easy to use

Cons
  • Some users have complained about its tendency to jam

FAQ

What's the best salmon spinning rod?
There is no definitive answer to this question since everyone’s preferences and needs vary. However, some of the best salmon spinning rods include the Abu Garcia Revo® SX spin cast reel, Shimano reel and Pflueger® President XT reel. These rods are all high-quality options that are sure to help you land your catch.
What size reel is best for salmon fishing?
The best size reel for salmon fishing is typically a larger reel that can handle heavier lines and lures. A reel with a higher gear ratio is also preferable, as it will allow you to retrieve the line more quickly.
How long should a salmon rod be?
Salmon rods come in a variety of lengths, but the most common lengths are between 6 and 7 feet. A longer rod will give you more reach and power, while a shorter rod is more manoeuvrable and easier to use in close quarters. Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference – so try out a few different lengths before you decide on the perfect salmon rod for you.
What line do you spin salmon on?
Salmon fishing is a popular sport, and many anglers use spinning reels to try to catch these fish. A good spinning reel for salmon fishing will have a high-quality drag system that can handle the power of these fish. It should also be able to cast lightweight lures accurately and easily.

Conclusion

When it comes to salmon fishing, having the right gear is essential for success. In this article, we have highlighted some of the best spinning reels for salmon fishing – each one with its own unique set of features and benefits. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, there is sure to be a reel that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. So don’t wait any longer – get out on the water and start reeling in those big catches!

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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