Spinning reels provide a few advantages from other reels but are ultimately best for simple fishing and easy water environments. Spinning reels are best for long-distance fishing. If a fisher wants to cast a long line into the water, the spinning reel is perfect.

Spinning reels cannot handle heavy lines, however, and are best for fishermen who want to use light baits such as live bait and soft plastic bait. Spinning reels are not restricted by drag and, therefore, can cast long, deep lines. Fishers also use spinning reels for crankbaits, light jerkbaits, and drop-shots. Purchasing an affordable spinning reel is a smart decision for any casual fisherman or pro angler who wants a long line with no drag.

The Okuma Azores is the runner up option on our list. This spinning reel is designed specifically for saltwater fishing. The Hydro “block water” tight seal is ideal for keeping water out of the main system. The Precision Dual Force Drag system is state-of-the-art and offers superior casting distance with customizable drag options.

The drag system is made with corrosion-resistant carbonite and felt drag washers for maximum durability. The solid aluminum bail wire is matched with an aluminum spool and arm handle. The brass gear is listed at a gear ratio of 5.8:1. This model comes with a one year manufacturer’s warranty.

This model has a line capacity of 10-15 lbs and 6 ball bearings. The handle can also be switched from the right side to the left side for added flexibility. Customers have noted that this model is heavier than other lightweight models.

The reel weighs approximately 1.32 lbs and shouldn't be challenging to hold. However, customers who want an ultralight spinning reel will be disappointed. This model also lacks a self-closing bail. If you plan to fish primarily in saltwater and want a high-quality spinning reel with an excellent drag system, then we recommend this model.

The Penn Fierce III 8000C is the best saltwater spinning reel under $100. This saltwater spinning reel is specially designed for saltwater fishing trips. The Penn Fierce III line has several models with different sizes: 1000, 2500, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, and 8000. All models are under $100; however, we recommend the 2500 model for most anglers.

This model is highly durable and made out of high-quality build parts. This saltwater spinning reel has a full metal body and stainless steel ball bearings. This spinning reel has five ball bearings and a gear ratio of 6.2:1. Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire with a braid-ready spool makes it easy to begin fishing immediately.

An instant anti-reverse mechanism with the bearing system helps keep hooksets steady and strong. This spinning reel also comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.

The best surf spinning reel under $100 is the Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel. This model comes in 1500, 2500, 4000, 4500, 5000, and 6000 models. The 1500, 2500, and 4000 are all under $100, but we recommend the 2500 model for most anglers.

The Daiwa Bg spinning reel 2500 model features an infinite anti-reverse system. This system limits handle movement and limits the amount of shock the reel experiences. This spinning reel is ideal for both saltwater and freshwater. It has a gorgeous professional aesthetic with a high-quality black aluminum body and simple, orange finishes.

The braided line ready spool helps create fast retrieval, and the line capacity hits 8/170. This is a tough spinning reel ready for long fishing trips.

The Cadence CS8-3000 is the best ultralight spinning reel under $100. This spinning reel model is highly portable and ultralight, weighing just 7.4 oz. This model comes with 9 stainless steel ball bearings and 1 additional instant anti-reverse bearing for smooth retrieval.

The highly sophisticated carbon fiber drag system ensures that users can adjust drag power for different types of fish. The aluminum spool is braid ready for easy set-up. The main body on this spinning reel is made out of magnesium rather than aluminum, which makes it lighter and stronger than comparable spinning reels. The power here means that anglers won't have to worry about flexing when hooking fish and reeling them in.

This reel has a gear ratio of 6.2:1 and has a line capacity of 10/150 yards/lbs. Users have noted that this spinning reel has difficulty handling heavier fish. If you consistently hunt for fish over 20 lbs., we recommend choosing another reel. Other customers have reported that the ends of the reel are not as smooth as other reels. However, the ergonomic handle on this reel makes it easy to grip and guide while fishing. This spinning reel offers a one-year limited warranty.

The Shimano NASCI Inshore is the best inshore spinning reel under 100. This Shimano NASCI Inshore line comes with several model numbers; however, we recommend the 3000 model. This model has a gear ratio of 6.2:1 and a line capacity of 10/200 yds/lbs. This model includes a retrieval range of 26-41 inches and has a drag power range of 7-24 lbs.

This spinning reel operates with a front drag, which offers greater control while fishing. Hagane gear materials means that each metal component is built with defined teeth and a tough body. Shimano gear is cold-forged for strength and does not use cutting to create the reel. It works well in both freshwater and saltwater settings. Aesthetically, this spinning reel has a black, aluminum, and gold finish.

The propulsion line management system on this reel is also ideal for many inshore anglers. The spool lip design allows anglers to propel longer casts. Customers have reported that this model has a tight hand area that can be too small for large hands or fingers. If you wear an XL glove, we recommend choosing a different spinning reel for comfort.

Other hand sizes should not have a problem with the hand space. This spinning reel also comes without an anti-reverse switch, which may bother some anglers. If you want a great inshore fishing reel, we recommend this SHIMANO NASCI 3000 model. Shimano has backed this spinning reel with a one year warranty.

The KastKing Speed Demon is the best spinning reel under $100 for bass fishing. KastKing Speed Demon comes in a few different models, but we recommend the 3000 model. This model has a fast gear ratio of 7.2:1 for superior performance.

The carbon drag system is made up of three carbon discs that provide strength while still delivering a smooth, flawless cast. This model is perfect for bass fishing because bass are an aggressive fish that requires fast casts and strong retrieval. Anglers will appreciate that this model comes with 10 stainless steel ball bearings for a flawless casting to retrieval process. This reel is lightweight and has an aluminum frame.

Aesthetically, this reel is a combination of black and classic red. This reel has a shine that can make your fishing rod stand out from the crowd. A few customers have noted that the drag can stick on this model.

The best way to resolve this problem is to keep the reel lubricated. Other anglers noted that one of the screws on the handle tends to unscrew with repeated use. Tightening the handle screws after purchase can help fix this problem. This spinning reel comes with a one year warranty from KastKing.

The best Shimano spinning reel under 100 is the Shimano Sedona SE8000FI. This spinning reel comes in a vibrant color choice with a mixture of light silver aluminum and light gold. The G-Free body helps pull the center of gravity closer to the rod, which makes it easy for anglers to hold and use while casting. This can keep general fatigue from setting in.

Hagane Gears are also present on this Shimano fishing reel. The core metal pieces of this reel were made without cutting work, which ensures that the reel remains strong and smooth. Shimano added the cross carbon drag system as well for a clean, effortless cast. To keep wind knots from interfering with the rod, Shimano added their propulsion line management system.

The best for trout fishing spinning reel on our list is the Pflueger Supreme. When fishing for trout, it is important to have a spinning reel that is ultra lightweight and can handle bait, lures, and flies. The Pflueger Supreme comes in the 25x, 30x, 35x, and 40x models. We recommend choosing the 30x for most anglers.

This spinning reel has a magnesium body and rotor, which creates an ultra lightweight reel at 0.16 lbs with a 6.2:1 gear ratio. The aircraft-grade aluminum handle is lightweight and ergonomic to prevent fishing hand fatigue. The braid ready spool makes it possible to attach the braid directly to the spool. This spinning reel has a classic look with an aluminum, black, and oil-rubbed gold aesthetic.

There are a few basic fishing tips that every beginner angler should know. First, to go fishing you will need to obtain a fishing license. When you obtain your fishing license, your state will let you know what areas you can visit and what materials you can use to fish. Next, you will need to purchase a fishing rod, fishing reel, and attach a fishing line.

Then you can purchase your hook and bait. We recommend choosing a fishing location and focusing on a particular type of fish before choosing the hook and bait. Different fish respond best to different types of bait and require different hooks. You will also need pliers to remove the hook from the fish mouth. Once you have these basic essentials, you can head out to the lake or ocean and begin fishing!

Yes! You can use a spinning reel for crankbaits. Spinning reels can cast cranks further compared to a baitcasting reel. Most fishermen recommend using spinning reels for crankbaits in cold water. In warmer water, a baitcasting reel may be better for crankbait fishing.

At $100 and below, fishermen can expect average materials and a substantial drag range. Cheaper spinning reels fall below $50, and these options on our list are affordable but offer higher-quality materials in comparison for greater performance and durability. Higher price points around $150 are more closely aligned to pro fishing reels and are not necessary for most hobbyists.

Spinning reels are the best choice for anglers who want to fish in gentle water with light bait. Our top pick for the best spinning reel under $100 is the Penn Battle II. This model is ideal for beginner and intermediate anglers who want a fast spin, smooth drag, and quick bait reaction time. It is both an affordable and high-quality spinning reel. A close second is the Okuma Azores model.