It was once said that a spinning reel is an angler’s best friend and you will soon get to see why. That said, we want to delve into the best spinning reel under 50 options so if you are on a budget, you may want to stick around.
Top-Rated Under $50 Spinning Reels in 2023: Comparison Table
We have some detailed reviews lined up for you. But first, some helpful insights in the following table.
| Ranking | Name | Style | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Okuma Ceymar Lightweight Spinning Reel | C-30, 145yd-8lb | 10.4 ounces |
| 2 | KastKing Sharky III Spinning Fishing Reel | 1000 | 13.6 ounces |
| 3 | KastKing Centron Spinning Reel | C: Centron 3000 | 12 ounces |
| 4 | KastKing Sharky Baitfeeder III Spinning Fishing Reel | 3000 | 16 ounces |
| 5 | Hunter’s Tail Fishing Reel | 2000 | 11.8 ounces |
| 6 | KastKing Valiant Eagle Spinning Reel | A: Emerald Eagle 2000 | 14.4 ounces |
| 7 | SHIMANO Sienna Spinning Fishing Reel | – | 6.4 Ounces |
| 8 | Okuma Avenger Baitfeeder Graphite Spinning Reel | – | – |
| 9 | Mitchell 300 Spinning Fishing Reel | 300-c | – |
| 10 | CS4 Spinning Reel,Cadence Ultralight | 3000 | – |
| 11 | kuma Avenger Lightweight Spinning Reel | – | 32 ounces |
| 12 | Pflueger Trion Spinning Reel | Old Model | – |
1. OkumaCeymar Spinning Reel
Are you looking for a good ultralight spinning reel? This Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel might be just what you want.
Besides, this 8-bearing reel is believed to make each move fluid, and many people like it for how easy it is to cast using it.
Product Description
The model has been made to provide excellent performance for you whenever you go fishing.
In addition, the materials used to make it, including the aluminum, are lightweight, durable, and also compatible. This gives you the might of using the reel with both braided line and monofilament.
However, as the product is known to be relatively smooth, some anglers might have noted that the reel is not that smooth as claimed.
Key Features
The 8-bearing feature is mostly used in assisting the user in making fluid moves. This means that casting the line no longer becomes an issue as long as you are using this spinning reel.
Moreover, the system comes with an aluminum spool that is not only lightweight but also sturdy. There is also an incorporated ball wire that is also made using aluminum.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sturdy and Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Not as smooth as expected
2. KastKingSharky III New Spinning Fishing Reel
If you are looking for a spinning reel for your fishing that can withstand both fresh and saltwater, then this one is the real deal.
This spinning reel by KastKing has been made to be durable and, at the same time, affordable because you can get it for not more than 50 dollars.
Product Description
As the name suggests, the KastKingSharky III Spinning Reel has been made tough to catch even bigger fish in any fishing conditions.
Besides, it is lightweight with a good amount of fiber-reinforced graphite body and rotor. In addition, its smooth fiber drags up to almost 40 pounds.
On the flip side, many people have complained about its gears, which are viewed not to be as durable as claimed.
Key Features
The ball bearings are double shielded and stainless steel.
Additionally, the reel also has an anti-reverse lock and stainless steel hardware and more line capacity.
Moreover, the unique aluminum pool ensures that you will not use the backing line whenever you are spooling on the braid fishing line.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Aluminum handles
Cons
- Gears not as durable
3. KastKing Summer and Centurion Spinning Reels 9+1 BB
This is one spinning reel that you might count on based on its affordability as it costs under 50 dollars in the market.
Besides, the materials used to make it ensure durability and enable it to serve you for quite a while.
Product Description
The KastKing Summer and Centurion spinning reels have small sizes starting from 2000. It also has bigger ones starting from 5000.
In addition, the nine quality ball- bearings are ideal for the reel having the smoothest retrieval action amongst the reels in this review.
It also has one anti-reversal roller bearing that is vital in how it operates as you do your fishing.
Key Features
One remarkable feature of this reel is the interchangeable handle that can be mounted on either the right or the left-hand side of the reel.
Moreover, the spinning reel also comes with a power launch lip that is vital when you need further casting.
The strong graphite frame is also vital for its durability.
Pros
- Smooth line retrieval
- Great drag
- Strong graphite frame
Cons
- Kind of light-duty
4. KastkingSharkyBaitfeeder III 10 +1 Spinning reel
This is yet another legendary spinning reel made by KastKing, and it comes with amazing features.
This is because it is not only suited for fresh waters but also for harsh salty waters to give you a good fishing experience.
Product Description
This reel comes with drag washers that are made of carbon fiber, which is known for its strength.
The drag washers make the reel a power package that helps in dealing with harsh conditions in the ocean or sea.
Moreover, the reel is installed with ten stainless steel ball bearings and, in addition, one extra which ensures the anti-reversal property.
One downside of the reel is that it may show uneven performance in some cases, which is not what a customer might be looking for.
Key features
This spinning reel is very affordable since you can get it with less than 50 dollars.
It comes in four model sizes ranging from 3000 to 6000. Additionally, it has a starting drag of about 17.5 pounds and goes up to a maximum of 26.5 pounds.
Moreover, it is advisable for its cleaning regularly after a session in the saltwater to increase its durability.
Pros
- Favorable in saltwater
- Spare graphite spool
- Great drag power
- Interchangeable handle
Cons
- Might have uneven performances sometimes
5. KastKingCrixus Spinning Fishing Reel
This is yet another high-quality combo that has been made to last for long.
It is believed to increase the fisher’s confidence since apart from being durable, it is also very affordable.
Product Description
The rod is made from graphite, which makes it lightweight and very sensitive. The rod makes casting any time of the day easy.
Besides, the reel is also very strong and durable, and any time you have a big fish caught, you can always be confident that it will have your back.
On the flip side, though, the reel cannot be interchanged because it comes with only one-hand retrieve.
Key Features
The main drive gear is made of Zinc Alloy that is known for durability, and also, the pinion gear is machined from solid brass.
In addition, there are five double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings plus one anti-reversal for easy hook sets.
Pros
- High-quality rod
- Reliable drag
- Lightweight
- Smooth on the retrieve
Cons
- Only one-hand retrieve
6. KastKing Valiant Eagle Spinning Reel
The KastKing spinning reels are dominating in our review. Also, in number six, we feature yet another Kastking product.
This Valiant Eagle Spinning Reel by Kastking allows you to get a good spinning reel for all your fishing purposes even when you have less than 50 dollars.
Product Description
The reel comes with dazzling green trim reflects, which makes the reel feel at home even while inside oceans and saltwater seas.
In addition, it has been built for speed and power in any waters, be it fresh or saltwater, and hence the name Valiant Eagle.
The downside of the spinning reel is that it gets loose over short periods, and this means that it needs constant tightening.
Key Features
The aluminum handle with EVA knob is lightweight, and this gives you extra control and leverage as it works flawlessly.
Moreover, it has a patent-pending spool design that increases the casting distance and improves on line control.
The reel also has a total of 10 stainless steel ball bearings that ensures smooth retrieves and one additional anti-reversal bearing for easy hook sets.
Pros
- Excellent design
- Good for salt and freshwater
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Handle needs constant tightening
7. SHIMANO Sienna Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel
Shimano is a known manufacturer of fishing reel.
This reel has been designed with the best spinning technology, and by getting it, you will have saved yourself so much money because it’s very affordable.
Product Description
This Shimano Sienna reel is believed to have made specific improvements from other products from this line.
Among the many changes is the M-compact body that allows the rod to be closer to the oscillating gear, and this adds the balance to the whole of the reel.
Moreover, it also has a Propulsion Line Management System, which increases the distance of casting while also preventing wind knots or backlashes.
On the flip side, the drag provided by the reel is not that smooth because of its 1+1 bearings.
Key Features
The Sienna Fe has an anti-reversal stopper which removes back-play through the one bearing designed for anti-reversal purposes.
With the other one bearing, it performs work smoothly, although not that much.
It can hold 270 yards of 2 pounds monofilament or 85 yards of 15 pounds of Power Proline.
Nevertheless, it has the capability of dragging a maximum of 9 pounds.
Pros
- Offers a good balance
- Offers less backlash
- Ultra-smooth rotation
Cons
- No smooth drag
8. Okuma Avenger ABF B Series Baitfeeder Reels
Okuma has come up with this magnificent baitfeeder reels that can even work in saltwater.
With the baitfeeder technology, the reel serves towards different benefits.
Product Description
This reel has a multi-disc secondary drag system that provides a smooth drag whenever you are at work.
In addition, it lets fish eat the bait without any hindrance.
Regardless of where or how you are applying it, the reel can maintain a great line control. Also, it is good for catching different species of fish.
On the downside, it sometimes causes inconveniences due to having a small handle.
Key Features
The reel offers good and smooth drag due to the six ball bearings. The additional one is also vital in ensuring anti-reversal.
On top of that, it has a Multi-disc, oiled felt drag system which has been tested for quality and reliability.
Pros
- Smooth drag
- Great line control
- Allows for hard pulling with higher torque
Cons
- Small handle may cause inconveniences
9. Mitchell 300 Spinning Fishing Reel
The Mitchell 300 includes both rod and reel that has been made following the different traditions from the past.
It is believed that this specific reel has inherited all the history and experience from the past. Affordability comes as a bonus.
Product Description
The aesthetics of this reel give it a modern appearance, and you usually will find angers falling in love with it.
In addition, the reel has been made using plastic, which is mixed with other materials to allow its lightweight and have durability.
A downside of this reel though, is that it may rust after some time of use.
Key Features
The reel has been made with eight ball bearings to ensure a smooth drag. In addition, an extra bearing that ensures anti-reversal is also included.
Moreover, just like Okuma Avenger ABF B Series, it also uses a multi-disc drag system that delivers consistent drag pressure for both heavy and light loads.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Anti-reversal switch
- Amazing line management
Cons
- Might rust
10. CadenceCS4 Ultralight Spinning Reel
For beginners, ultralight spinning reels are excellent, and many brands, including this Cadence CS4 one, have been addressing this case.
Besides, it addresses not only lightweight but also affordability. With less than 50 dollars, you can acquire one for your own.
Product Description
This is one of the best ultralight spinning rod and real combo in our review due to its excellence in value for money.
Moreover, it has been made for freshwaters, and any use in salty waters might not be very favorable on its side.
This reel has a 24-ton graphite construction along with steel guides and inserts.
However, the reel might corrode after some time of use.
Key Features
The reel has an ergonomic EVA handle knob that offers comfortability for long-term use.
On top of that, it has eight corrosion resistant ball bearings that provide for easy drag.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Offers value for money
- Comfortable
Cons
- May corrode over time
11. Okuma Avenger Lightweight Spinning Reel
When you get used to catching fish using this Okuma Avengers Lightweight Spinning Reel, you will no longer find it fun to buy fish.
This is because Okuma is believed to have people falling in love with it, and using it to catch fish becomes enjoyable.
Product Description
The Okuma Avenger Lightweight Spinning Reels accommodate a corrosion-resistant graphite frame, which makes it durable.
In addition, the Precision Elliptical Gearing System regulates the speed of all the spindle strokes and ensures that the line lies well across the spool.
On the flip side, the reel does not always lay range evenly.
Key Features
The reel ensures a smooth drag with its six ball bearings. Additionally, it has one ball bearing that is used for anti-reversal.
The body is made using graphite that does not corrode, and therefore the reel stays for long.
Pros
- Quick anti-reversal
- Corrosion proof
- Lightweight
Cons
- Handle may wear off very fast
12. Pflueger Trion Spinning Fishing Reel
This is a marvelous combination of notable features of spinning reels.
In addition, it saves you a fortune because even with less than 50 dollars, you can get it.
Product Description
This spinning Fishing Reel by Pflueger is one of a kind, in that, it is made with high-quality aluminum while still ensuring it remains lightweight.
In addition to its lightweight nature, the aluminum ensures its durability and long-lasting.
Many anglers have praised it, citing how comfortable it can be to use. They go on to mention that it feels like it was high-quality and well-constructed.
However, they still had a complaint about the handle. They claim that it felt like it was too short. The claims were that it made the reeling process longer that it needed to be.
Key Features
The compact design is ideal for fishing larger panfish and can also come in handy where there is a feisty fighter.
The fact that it was created with high-quality material might be reason enough to try it.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Durability
- Lightweight
- Well-crafted
Cons
- Handle is a bit short
Buying Guide for Spinning Reels Under $50
You have probably heard of the saying that ‘cheap is expensive’ but we beg to differ. If you consider the following factors, you can actually get a good spinningreel for $50 or less.
Reel Simplicity
Catching fish is not an easy task especially if you are a beginner. In respect to that, you want to get a spinning reel that will be easy to use.
Spinning reels are designed differently and you need something lightweight and comfortable to hold. This will help you maneuver your reel effortlessly.
Reel Material
Although there are numerous debates about this, it is important to consider the material used to fabricate your reel of choice.
A section of anglers’term composites as cheap and substandard but you can find functional composites in the market.
The best thing about composite material is that its lightweight and you need that when fishing.
Another material you should seriously consider is aluminum because it is rust-resistant and lightweight.
Target Fish
Lastly, you want to determine what kind of fish you intend to catch before purchasing a reel. There are reels designed to catch large fish but if you are a beginner, you want a simple reel that is easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We believe you have a few questions in relation to this topic and we are ready to answer starting with the ones below.
What is the difference between a spinning and baitcasting reel?
Baitcasting reels are more complex to use but more accurate when used correctly. Spinning reels on the other hand cast easier and further hence preferable for beginners.
Can I use these reels for saltwater fishing?
It all depends on the spinning reel model.You can only use them for saltwater fishing if the manufacturer allows it.
If your reel is not designed to be rust-resistant, it is unsuitable for saltwater fishing.
Best Choice
When all is said and done, it’s now time to pick the best from the pack. And in our view, the Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel is quite well-made. We feel that at its price, it provides you with a good combination of features worth working with.
Final Thoughts
If you are a beginner at angling, you do not want to splurge on an intricate spinning reel before getting your act right. That is why we have put together this guideto help you pick one that will serve the purpose on a budget.