The Best Ultralight Spinning Reel
Searching for the holy grail of ultralight Spinning reels can be a cumbersome and time-consuming experience.
Lucky for you we spent countless hours testing and researching the best ultralight spinning reels available on the market to come up with a ‘best of the best’ list to narrow down your search.
If you’re in a hurry and need something right away you can skip directly to our top picks in the chart below.
However, if like me you are all about the details then keep on reading. Along the way, you will learn about the benefits of an ultralight spinning reel, what to look for when selecting your reel, and the particulars of why each reel made it onto this list.
Ultralight Spinning Reel Product Chart
What Is An Ultralight Spinning Reel?
The term ultralight refers to the lightest weight class of reel available on the market. Typically speaking, these lightweight reels have a more refined and gentle touch which is best reserved for targeting smaller game fish like panfish, crappie, trout, and smallmouth bass.
Paired with a lightweight pole and lightweight lures, a lightweight reel gives you a genuine advantage because it provides a stealthier cast and presentation which often adds up to fewer spooked fish and more overall bites.
When going ultralight, it's all too common to select a 4-pound test line. That smaller 4-pound line will cast even the lightest of lures long distances but remain strong enough to not snap from the strike of a trout or bass. Spinning reels are the best at handling lightweight fishing line and are optimized for casting lighter weight lures as well.
What To Look For In An Ultralight Spinning Reel
A good balance in reel size. Too light and you’ll lack drag power, line capacity, and casting distance. I’d recommend getting a reel that is about 10 ounces or less and holds at a minimum of 110 yards of the 4 -pound test line we referenced earlier.
Maximum durability without added weight. Typically strengthening the reel itself means using more dense metals for the frame or components which means adding more weight. Finding a happy medium here is in advanced materials like graphite, cold forged metals, aluminum, and carbon fiber to give you the best blend of strength while still keeping the reel itself under that 10-ounce threshold.
Cutting edge performance. Ultralight reels can still have exceptional features that on the water make all the difference. For example, having a superb drag system that is reliable and strong will pay off in spades when a 12-pound bass strikes your line. Or a reel that provides frictionless casting that doesn’t get wound up or limit your range on the water.
Reviews Of The Best Ultralight Spinning Reels
1. Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB Spinning Reel With Front Drag (Top Pick)
First impressions are everything and holding a Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB spinning reel leaves you wanting more. Shimano’s proprietary Ci4+ graphite gives this reel a very noticeable 20% lighter feel than the similar class of Stradic FKs. Its radical lightweight frame pairs well with a medium rod and is perfect for catching inshore fish like trout and bass. At that 2500 size, you’ll find it perfectly adequate for inland and bay saltwater fishing also.
On a performance level, this reel is simply relentless. It has tremendous cranking power and will put up a fight under any conditions. While it doesn’t have an anti-reverse clutch, it does sport infinite anti-reverse. The drag system never wavers and has tremendous backbone when standing up to river monsters of all kinds. All in all, you will find that the Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB will exceed your expectations and is a dream to use in every aspect.
If you are looking for an ultralight spinning reel that is cosmetically appealing, all-powerful, and will leave you grinning ear to ear after each use, then the Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB is the reel for you. While it isn’t cheap, you absolutely get what you pay for. It is light as a feather, strong as an ox, and has a silky smooth operation that will without a doubt become the best ultralight reel in your arsenal.
2. Shimano Sienna Spinning Reel (Best Budget Spinning Reel)
Reel shopping on a budget is no easy task. Thankfully, Shimano stepped up with the Sienna Spinning Reel which is without a doubt is the best budget ultralight spinning reel. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of say a Shimano Stradic but it definitely rises to the occasion on any fishing expedition and lives up to that Shimano name.
With such a budget-friendly reel you’ll probably want to double up to have more lines in the water. Many of my friends use this as their go-to reel for their travel fishing kit since it is so lightweight and dependable. It is also just right for any kids, first-timers, or part-time fisherman that have a light pole and a light budget.
You’ll find the bail on the Sienna to be firm and for a three bearing reel, it has a very smooth operation. The reel itself is extremely lightweight because of its graphite frame, rotor, and sideplate. Even the spool is made from cold-forged aluminum for maximum durability and minimal weight. Pair it with an ultra light rod and light lures and you’ve got a great recipe for increased casting distance.
For pulling 16” cutthroat trout, to large and smallmouth bass, crappie, and everything in between the Shimano Sienna spinning reel is an absolute best in class for its low price point. It is an absolute workhorse of a reel that is perfect for backcountry fishing in lakes and streams and will do just about everything you ask of it.
Although it is ideal for smaller fish, it will surprise you with its ability to land much larger fish as well. In part because of its superb drag that is both reliable and predictable. If you want a dependable light tackle reel that has a smooth cast, solid retrieval, and won’t break the bank then the look no further than the Shimano Sienna spinning reel.
3. Okuma Ceymar Lightweight Spinning Reel (Best Ultralight Spinning Reel Under $50)
The Okuma Ceymar C-10 lightweight spinning reel is the smallest in the Ceymar family but absolutely lives up to the brand’s reputation. Pairing it with an ultralight rod is a fantastic recipe for fatigue-free fishing for trout, sunfish, small perch, bluegill, crappie, and bass. The Okuma Ceymar is definitely the best ultralight spinning reel under $50.
While the reel itself is super ultralight, it still feels quality thanks to its graphite body and aluminum handle. Beyond its weight and durability, you’ll find that it has a simply flawless operation. It is second to none when it comes to casting and has a lightning fast retrieval rate that is consistent.
The C-10 works well with 2 to 6-pound test fishing line and I prefer using a monofilament or braided fishing line with it. There’s no doubt this is likely the best inexpensive reel you’ll ever buy. In fact, after a few rounds on the water, you’ll find yourself double checking your receipt and pondering how many more you want to buy. Overall, its small lightweight design packs a wallop that is reliable and won’t let you down when it counts. It is excellent for slaying trout and other light tackle fish in streams, inshore fishing of any kind, and even holds its own at ice fishing.
For a more in depth review of the Okuma Ceymar spinning reel, take a look at my article, The Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel (A Great Spinning Reel Under $50).
4. Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
The Okuma Helios can simply be described as a “Buy it for Life” ultralight spinning reel. It is the pinnacle of superior design, durable materials, and quality construction. It sports a carbon fiber body, rotor, and side plate that gives it strength, precision, and rigidity.
The Helios reel is perfect for smallmouth bass, steelhead trout, small catfish, flounder, and tarpon. It seems to be better suited to freshwater fishing, but it definitely holds its own during inshore saltwater conditions as well. The best part of this reel is its 6.2 oz weight which makes it truly an all-day reel. That lightweight combined with its effortless cast makes you feel like you could fish all night and all day without any strain or discomfort.
If you’re looking for a reel that feels like a step up but without the added cost then look no further than the Okuma Helios lightweight spinning reel.
5. Shimano Stradic FK Spinning Reel
If you’re looking for the Cadillac of ultralight spinning reels, then the Shimano Stradic FK is the reel for you. Shimano happens to make some of the best fishing reels money can buy and the Stradic FK is no different. The engineers at Shimano set out to form a spinning reel that in every conceivable way helps improve the anglers experience out on the water.
As soon as you open up the box, you notice its highly polished chrome frame and royal blue accents that give it a sleek and professional look. Using cold forging technology the reel was molded to be perfectly balanced to reduce fatigue and have robust strength that you can depend on.
Beyond durability and looks the Stradic FK outperforms the majority of reels in the ultralight spinning reel class. Its lightweight frame gives it a great feel in the hand and makes casting a piece of cake. Likewise, the crank is buttery smooth and gives very little resistance. Thanks in part to the finely adjustable and incredibly smooth drag which is a surprise because most spinning reels aren’t generally known to have the best drag systems.
The Shimano Stradic FK spinning reel is an absolute champion when it comes to ultralight spinning reels. It’s made with smaller fish in mind, but many fishermen (myself included) have fought and landed absolute monsters with it thanks to the quality engineering and robust frame. If you’re looking for something dependable that will last the test of time, then don’t hesitate to pick up a Shimano Stradic FK.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with any of the ultralight reels on this list, but a quick recap might help you make your final purchase decision.
Shimano Sienna Spinning Reel
The Shimano Sienna is the best budget spinning reel in this list. While it is a step down from the Shimano Stradic series, it clearly outperforms all other ultralight spinning reels in its price range. If you are looking for a top-notch light tackle reel that is reliable, easy to use, and easy on the wallet, then look no further than the Shimano Sienna spinning reel now available on Amazon.
Okuma Ceymar Lightweight Spinning Reel
The Okuma Ceymar destroys the stereotype that spinning reels under $50 are cheaply made, lack in performance, and won’t last. This reel has a reputation for being a stout lightweight reel that is extremely versatile and dependable. Its compact size and refined engineering make it an excellent traveling reel, and for the price, it simply cannot be beaten. If you are seeking out an affordable ultralight reel that has a buttery smooth cast and crank, then the Okuma Ceymar spinning reel is for you. Read more about the reel on Amazon.
Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel
Splurging a little on a quality spinning reel like the Okuma Helios is never a bad choice. It has all the reliability and versatility of the Okuma Ceymar but is a noticeable 1 oz lighter thanks to its long strand carbon fiber construction and superior design. It sports exceptional strength for both freshwater and inshore saltwater trips and is an all-around practical, durable, and quality reel that is made to last a lifetime. If your reel of choice happens to be the sleek Okuma Helios lightweight spinning reel then you can purchase it now on Amazon.
Shimano Stradic FK Spinning Reel
There’s no better way to describe this reel than it being the Cadillac of ultralight spinning reels. It’s polished look and refined performance will give you a clear leg up out on the water and is worth every penny. While Shimano is known for its quality engineering and durability this reel also performs like a prize racehorse. If you’re looking for an ultralight reel with a relentless drag, effortless casting, and high-quality construction then look no further than the Shimano Stradic FK now available on Amazon.
Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB Spinning Reel with Front Drag
If the Shimano Stradic FK is a Cadillac, then the Shimano Ci4+ is a Porsche. It has all the splendor and durability of the Stradic FK but is 1.8 oz lighter, much smoother, has a stronger “Magnum Light” rotor that makes turning the handle feel lighter and is phenomenal for finesse fishing and using lighter lures. While the Stradic FK holds a special place in our arsenal and hearts, the Stradic Ci4+ is overall tougher, lighter, easier to crank and cast, and will truly last a lifetime. Our top pick for the best ultralight spinning reel is the Shimano Stradic Ci4+ FB Spinning Reel with Front Drag which you can buy now on Amazon.
Related Posts:
1. The Ultimate Guide To Fishing Reels (Types, Uses, Pros and Cons)
2. Review: Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel (A Great Spinning Reel Under $50)
3. Best Monofilament Fishing Line For Spinning Reels (Top 5)
4. The Best Spinning Rod Under $50 (Top 5 Reviews)
5. The Best Braided Fishing Line For Spinning Reels
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