Best Ultralight Spinning Reel For Angling - 2020

Looking for the best ultralight spinning reel but don’t know a lot about market options? If that happens to be the case, this article is for you.

Reel weight is by all accounts a matter of preference but light reels usually mean less fatigue, improved castability and generally more pleasurable fishing experience. Because of that, lots of modern-day anglers opt to pick up ultralight spinning reels. As new models hit the market from time to time, fishing enthusiasts that seek ultralight spinning reels have access to a wide range of options. That being said, the rather huge number of models also complicates the task of finding the best ultralight spinning reel.

Top-Rated Ultralight Spinning Reels

Anglers have countless opinions regarding the best ultralight spinning reel but if you want a good buy then you must check out the following models.

1.Okuma Ceymar C-30

https://www.amazon.com/Okuma-Ceymar-Lightweight-Spinning-C-30/dp/B00LDYL556

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
• Bearings: 8
• Max Drag: 15.4 Pounds
• Weight: 8.2 Ounces

Using a cyclonic flow design that increases ventilation in the rotor, Okuma Ceymar C-30 dries fast compared to classic reels. Because of that, the reel of Okuma is well-liked by fishing enthusiasts that worry about corrosion caused by water. Moreover, with its precision elliptical gearing system, Ceymar C-30 creates less friction in use which improves casting distance and extends the lifespan of the line. The inclusion of a handy quick-set anti-reserve also allows Okuma Ceymar C-30 to deliver rock-solid hook sets.

Since the Okuma reel packs a narrow blade profile that reduces fatigue, you could wield it for a long time. In addition to that, the rotor of Ceymar C-30 utilizes advanced computer balancing so it’s able to spin at high speeds without developing wobbles. Unsurprisingly, once it comes to handling, Okuma Ceymar C-30 is regarded as the best ultralight spinning reel on the market. The reel made by Okuma is sold at a reasonable price, thus, it meets the shopping budgets of most anglers.

As proof of confidence, Okuma backs its fishing reel with an impressive 10-year limited warranty. If you like to have an insurance policy then you should consider putting Ceymar C-30 of Okuma in your shortlist.

Pros:

• Nice price
• Resilient construction
• Light and compact

Cons:

• Customer service could use some work
• Seizing is occasionally reported

2.KastKing Centron 5000

https://www.amazon.com/KastKing-Summer-Spinning-Reels-Size/dp/B017TQTZ8A

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 4.5:1
• Bearings: 10
• Max Drag: 17.5 Pounds
• Weight: 13.5 Ounces

Thanks to the incorporation of a tough graphite frame engineered to resist corrosion, KastKing Centron 5000 handles outdoor elements quite well. Besides that, with various quality ball bearings, the reel made by KastKing runs smoothly in a wide range of conditions. Possessing hardened metal shaft, precision machined pinion gear and first-class mesh drive gear, Centron 5000 could provide anglers with lots of fighting power as well. That is why KastKing Centron 5000 is the best ultralight spinning reel for serious anglers nowadays.

The aluminum spool of Centron 5000 is CNC machined with plenty of even line lay so its line capacity proves to be excellent for typical games. KastKing gives the spool internal grooves for lube retention too and that lets the line come off and on straight. As a power launch tip is present, maximizing the casting distance is going to be a walk in the park. In terms of compatibility, Centron 5000 of KastKing could be fitted to standard fishing rods in a blink of an eye.

One interesting thing about the KastKing reel is that its handle is left/right interchangeable. That means left and right-handed fishing enthusiasts could put KastKing Centron 5000 to good use.

Pros:

• Rugged
• Slim and sleek
• Commendable drag

Cons

• Several users complain about tangle line
• Quality control is less than ideal

3.Sougayilang XY5000

https://www.amazon.com/Sougayilang-Fishing-Aluminum-Spinning-Graphite/dp/B0747LDSGT

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 5.5:1
• Bearings: 14
• Max Drag: 22.0 Pounds
• Weight: 10.9 Ounces

Featuring a five-star triple-disc drag system with carbon washers, Sougayilang XY5000 offers incredible stopping power for its size. Since XY5000 happens to carry a robust machined spool with sublime line capacity, it’s capable of tackling stubborn games. Additionally, the integration of an ergonomic EVA handle in the design ensures that fishing enthusiasts could spend multiple hours hunting games without feeling worn out. Like many of its competitors, the Sougayilang reel permits anglers to switch the handle between left and right in seconds.

As for operation, XY5000 contains top-grade corrosion-resistant ball bearings so it works reliably in an assortment of environments. Therefore, the reel from Sougayilang is deemed to be a decent choice for those that fish on a regular basis. With its outstanding versatility, XY5000 of Sougayilang flexibly supports boat fishing, beach fishing, rock fishing, … Unlike the average reels, the frame of Sougayilang XY5000 is actually hollow which helps to keep the overall weight down.

About cost, the reel made by Sougayilang is inexpensive and it would be accompanied by a free spare graphite spool.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Lightweight body
• Retrieval rate is splendid

Cons:

• A couple of reels arrive damaged
• Certain parts loosen over time

4.X-CAT Nacatin EF6000

https://www.amazon.com/X-CAT-Spinning-Interchangeable-Saltwater-Freshwater/dp/B0756WJ3SD

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
• Bearings: 12
• Max Drag: 8.8 Pounds
• Weight: 14.1 Ounces

Constructed using supreme quality materials, Nacatin EF6000 from X-CAT could take on everything that the outdoors throws at it. In use, the reel of X-CAT generates little friction so unless people push it to the extremes, it would likely last a long time. As a result, for anglers that favor longevity, Nacatin EF6000 is the best ultralight spinning reel at its price range. Packing lots of enduring bearings, X-CAT Nacatin EF6000 guarantees smooth action in usual settings.

With a light ultra-thin build, the X-CAT spinning reel proves to be a breeze to wield and manipulate. The handle of Nacatin EF6000 is not only interchangeable but also foldable so it adapts well and saves storage space. Furthermore, by using a computer balancing system, X-CAT Nacatin EF6000 can deliver a well-rounded experience to fishing enthusiasts. As it receives special mirror painting at the factory, Nacatin EF6000 has a stylish appearance that gets it compliments from angling communities around the globe.

The spool of Nacatin EF6000 is made from aluminum and it’s designed to increase casting distance and reduce tangling. Though the line capacity of the reel of X-CAT is unexceptional, it’s nonetheless adequate for common fish species.

Pros:

• Quiet
• Fair cost
• Fluid operation

Cons:

• Modest drag
• Users notice loosed screws

5.Quantum GenX2UL

https://www.amazon.com/Quantum-Fishing-GenX-Ultralight-Spinning/dp/B0166SMHB4

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 4.3:1
• Bearings: 4
• Max Drag: 15.0 Pounds
• Weight: 5.6 Ounces

Durable and portable, Quantum GenX2UL is held in high esteem by a lot of anglers from amateurs to professionals. With computer balancing, the rotor of the spinning reel from Quantum is precisely aligned which removes the need for counterweight and leads to smooth cranking. Aside from that, GenX2UL possesses premium ball bearings as well so it works like a charm in numerous applications. Finally, since it boasts a fantastic continuous anti-reverse clutch, Quantum GenX2UL could provide a lifetime of instant hooksets.

In terms of drag, GenX2UL employs a multi-stack drag system that lets fishing enthusiasts pursue numerous species in freshwater and saltwater with confidence. The spool of the Quantum reel has a pretty generous line capacity too so users don’t have to worry about running out of line. Moreover, as Quantum GenX2UL employs a sturdy anti-slip handle, maintaining a firm grip is a piece of cake. Depending on preferences, the handle of the reel made by Quantum can be effortlessly relocated from left to right and vice versa in a flash.

Being offered at a price that ordinary anglers could accept, GenX2UL of Quantum is known to be highly affordable. In the case that your wallet is kind of tight, the Quantum reel is going to be the best ultralight spinning reel you can get.

Pros:

• Economical
• Simple to cast and reel
• Superb line capacity

Cons:

• Some parts should be strengthened
• Quality control still leaves something to be desired

6.Shimano IX1000R

https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-1000R-Front-Freshwater-Spinning/dp/B003ZZDWMK

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 4.1:1
• Bearings: 0
• Max Drag: 7.0 Pounds
• Weight: 8.4 Ounces

By utilizing Quick Fire II technology, IX1000R of Shimano allows anglers to cast line swiftly with just one hand. Also, IX1000R has graphite spool, rotor, frame and side plates so it could withstand outdoor elements but still remain light compared to other reels. Since it’s a reversible model, the Shimano reel is capable of accommodating left and right-hand action as well. Naturally, Shimano IX1000R is sought after by fishing enthusiasts that wish to own a no-nonsense ultralight spinning reel.

Equipped with a well-fitted stern drag, the reel made by Shimano removes the need to place fingers in the line to tauten the drag. While IX1000R lacks bearings, it nevertheless works fluidly in various environments thanks to the presence of high-class materials. Because of that, Shimano IX1000R is widely considered to be a joy to operate. As for line capacity, the Shimano spinning reel can hold lots of fishing lines so you could easily deal with the runs of typical games.

To reassure anglers about the quality of its reel, Shimano willingly backs IX1000R with a solid 10-year manufacturer warranty. So if your Shimano reel fails due to manufacturing defects within the warranty period, you may claim a free replacement.

Pros:

• High endurance
• Reasonable price
• Excellent castability

Cons:

• Shipping needs improvements
• A few users complain about receiving seized reels

7.Okuma Helios HSX-30

https://www.amazon.com/Okuma-Helios-HSX-30-Lightweight-Spinning/dp/B01MDLN45U/

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
• Bearings: 9
• Max Drag: 13.0 Pounds
• Weight: 7.1 Ounces

Boasting an innovative one-piece torsion control armor with splendid torsion and flex resistance, Okuma Helios HSX-30 keeps its parts perfectly aligned at all times. That is why even if it’s put under heavy pressure, the reel from Okuma would never fail to please. Furthermore, the use of C-40X carbon in the construction means that Helios HSX-30 is superior to traditional reels once it comes to corrosion resistance. If you often seek fish species that live in saltwater, Helios HSX-30 of Okuma would undoubtedly be a good companion.

Similar to many reels made by Okuma, Helios HSX-30 packs a cyclonic flow motor system that focuses on expelling water and drying the interior instead of merely preventing water intrusion. In use, the Okuma spinning reel automatically drives water out and accelerates the evaporation of accumulated moisture which leads to a rather quick dry time. So for anglers that like to go fishing in rainy seasons, Okuma Helios HSX-30 is the best ultralight spinning available for purchase on the market.

Through the carbon fiber drag knob, fishing enthusiasts could customize the drag setting of the Okuma reel to match games. Hence, with Okuma Helios HSX-30, optimizing the drag in particular situations is essentially a cakewalk.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Long-lasting
• Intuitive handling

Cons:

• Reel bait is a bit hard to flip
• Inconsistencies exist between reels

8.KastKing Sharky III 1000

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077JKZ7JW/

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
• Bearings: 11
• Max Drag: 33.0 Pounds
• Weight: 7.4 Ounces

Loaded with superb features, KastKing Sharky III 1000 gives a good account of itself in a wide range of fishing setups. Possessing a unique protection design called K.I.S.S. (KastKing Intrusion Shield System), Sharky III 1000 stops water and dirt from reaching the interior mechanism. Therefore, regardless of the level of exposure, the KastKing reel would perform as expected and that is a big plus. KastKing Sharky III 1000 has multiple shielded stainless steel bearings as well so it runs smoothly.

As it carries high-density slip-free EVA grips, the spinning reel of KastKing ensures that you have total control in the wettest of conditions. In addition, the aluminum spool of Sharky III 1000 happens to be braid ready so you don’t have to spend too much time spooling it. KastKing Sharky III 1000 has an anti-twist line roller that helps to reduce the odds of lines getting tangled too. As a result, the KastKing reel is a forgiving unit that anglers of any level could use without much difficulty.

Though KastKing Sharky III 1000 indeed costs more than its competitors, the values KastKing Sharky III 1000 offer match its price tag. The reel made by KastKing is also backed with a 1-year warranty that covers defects.

Pros:

• Facilitate spooling
• Balanced construction
• Durability is top-notch

Cons:

• Slightly pricey
• Reports about grinding gear show up occasionally

9.Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB

https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-Stradic-STCI42500HGFB-Spinning-Fishing/dp/B01H3SFGPK/

Specifications:

• Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
• Bearings: 7
• Max Drag: 24.2 Pounds
• Weight: 8.1 Ounces

Engineered for endurance and built to improve the experience of anglers on the water, Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB is known as a highly capable reel. By integrating X-ship technology, the Shimano reel eliminates friction between the spool shaft and gear which enhances casting distance. Moreover, Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB comes with an outstanding line management system that mitigates line issues. Thus, Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB allows you to spend more time on hunting game and less time sorting tangled lines.

With a body made from carbon fiber, Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB is relatively light but it could handle abuses as well. Besides that, the roller clutch and line roller have robust water-repellent coating so the risk of corrosion in such key areas is rather low. Packing cold-forged gears, the spinning reel of Shimano operates fluidly in plenty of environments. As it boasts a front drag system, Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB lets fishing enthusiasts apply adjustments to drag at will.

As for line capacity, the spool of Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB accommodates lots of lines compared to the market standard. Because of that, after you put Stradic Ci4+ 4000XGFB on your fishing rod, you could confidently take on stubborn games.

Pros:

• Tough
• Dependable and reliable
• Castability is impressive

Cons:

• Quite expensive
• Some users complain about tedious bail resets

Picking Up The Best Ultralight Spinning Reel: Important Criteria

Due to individual liking, different people tend to look for different things in fishing reels. Nevertheless, in the case that you wish to make a wise investment, it’s strongly recommended that you keep in mind the criteria down below.

• Endurance

Well, the last thing that you want to spend your money on is a flimsy reel that breaks apart after a couple of fishing trips. Because of that, prior to committing to a purchase, you must determine if the reel you choose is able to hold itself together in use. By checking out its material, you would have a good idea of how well your preferred reel handles outdoor elements, physical impacts and similar hardships. To reach an objective conclusion, it’s also advised that you read through reviews of fellow anglers and gather references.

• Drag

In case you don’t know, drag dictates the force that the fishing line can be subjected to before the reel starts to spin backward. As drag influences the fighting power of anglers while tackling games, it’s regarded as one of the top concerns. Nowadays, spinning reels on the market use two drag systems: spool-based and frame-based. If you really like to stay adaptable then you should prioritize reels with spool-based drag but if you happen to seek strength, stick to reels with frame-based drag.

• Line Capacity

The line capacity of a particular reel refers to just how much line it could possibly handle at any time. If you simply intend to catch usual fish species, it’s fine to settle for reels with standard line capacities. On the other hand, if you hunt challenging games that put up serious fights, you would need to have lots of lines to accommodate their lengthy runs which means a high-capacity reel is required. It’s worth noting that depending on the thickness of the line that you use, the line capacity may change.

• Retrieval Rate

To put it plainly, the retrieval rate indicates the amount of fishing line retrieved each time anglers crank the reel. As the retrieval rate increases, the time it takes to reel in the fish drops. To deduce the ideal retrieval rate for your reel, it’s suggested that you take your fishing style into account. While fast retrieval rates certainly prove handy, you can still get excellent results with slow retrieval rates in various situations.

• Bearing

Overall, bearings provide stability to the reels and keep the internal components working together smoothly. Because of that, for a solid fishing experience, you should pay special attention to the quality and number of bearings. Models that contain many high-quality bearings would likely operate without having troubles for years. Such reels often come at expensive prices though so it’s key that you think about your shopping budget and narrow down your shortlist accordingly.

Maintaining Ultralight Spinning Reels: Tips And Tricks

Nothing lasts forever but by taking good care of your fishing reel, you could keep it in top shape for an extended period of time. Follow the recommendations listed down below to make sure that your reel performs as expected:

• After you return from your fishing trip, you must clean the dirt, water and other foreign substances out your reel. In addition to that, dry your reel completely before putting it away so as to minimize the risk of corrosion.
• To smoothen the operation and prevent the gear from grinding, it’s crucial that you grease your reel at intervals. The market offers plenty of choices regarding greases for spinning reels but whatever you choose, remember to use it sparingly. If you put too much grease on your reel, all kinds of things would accumulate in it and impair functions.
• While the average reels don’t have demanding storage requirements, you should place your reel in a well-ventilated location. Outside of fishing, it’s essential that you stop outdoor elements from reaching your reel.

Top 5 FAQs About Ultralight Spinning Reels

• Do I have to go for certain brands?

Once it comes to fishing reels, brand is not an overriding consideration so you don’t have to limit your options to a few manufactures. However, if you wish to play it safe, you should keep an eye out for models from Okuma, KastKing, Shimano, Abu Garcia and so on.

• What should I do if the gears feel rough?

If the gears of your reel feel rough in use, there are two possibilities: lack of lubrication and damaged gears. So check the bearings for signs of damages and proceed to lubricate them thoroughly. In the case that you don’t see noticeable improvements, get in touch with the manufacturer.

• How come my line is twisting?

If your line comes off the reel too loose, it’s going to twist because of the law of physics. In terms of solution, you need to unwind the spool of your reel and rewind. To prevent the line from twisting again, you should keep the spool straight and taught.

• What needs to be done if the drag pressure keeps wavering?

If the washers of its drag system happen to worn out, your reel would be incapable of preserving drag pressure. Fortunately, you could restore drag pressure by replacing the washers. Lots of fishing goods stores nowadays sell replacement drag washers for reels so it’s a breeze to grab some.

• Is reel backlash avoidable?

All in all, reel backlash should never occur to fine-tuned reels so if you experience it, the adjustments of your reel may be off. Take a close look at the tension knobs and velocity control settings then apply appropriate changes to remedy the situation.

Conclusion

There is no such thing as the best ultralight spinning reel for everyone but by putting what you learn from above to practice, you could get yourself a solid reel.