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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
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.
2# Shimano Stella SW Spinning Reel
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.
3# Shimano TwinPower SW Spinning Reel
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.
4# PENN Battle III Spinning Reel
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.
5# Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel
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.
6# Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
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!
7# Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel
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.
8# Offshore Angler Frigate II Spinning Reel
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.
9# Daiwa Fuego LT Spinning Reel
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.
10# Lew’s Mach 2 Spinning Reels
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.
11# Pflueger President XT Limited Edition Spinning Reel
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.
12# Daiwa BG Spinning Reel
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.
13# Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel
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.
14# Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel
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.
15# Penn Fierce III Spinning Reel
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.
16# Shimano Baitrunner D Offshore Spinning Reel
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.
17# Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel
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.
FAQ
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!

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.
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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.
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