Our Top Pick:
Shimano Inshore Spinning Reel
★★★★★
Best Value:
Okuma Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Penn Spinfisher Saltwater Spinning Reel
★★★★★
Inshore spinning reels are bigger than traditional spinning reels as they are used to catch bigger fish. Also, these reels are designed to resist corrosion caused due to exposure to saltwater. If you enjoy saltwater fishing, you should look for the best inshore saltwater spinning reels. It will add a sense of adventure to your fishing and allow you to fish in deeper waters from the shore.
Since there are so many brands of inshore saltwater spinning reels, it can be difficult to choose the best. Thankfully, you can check out our inshore saltwater spinning reels review as we have taken away the guesswork and presented the top 10 best reels. Reading the review of each type of reel will allow you to make an informed purchase decision.
Related articles: saltwater rigs, best saltwater fly reels & best saltwater baitcasting reel under $100
We have also created a buying guide to highlight the features that the best inshore saltwater spinning reels should have. You can utilize the guide to help you buy the perfect saltwater spinning reel to enjoy a thrilling and satisfying inshore fishing experience.
| Table: Best Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reels | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Shimano Inshore Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #2 Okuma Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #3 Penn Spinfisher Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #4 Penn Battle II Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #5 Shimano Baitrunner Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #6 KastKing III Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #7 Diwa Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #8 Sougayilang Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #9 Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
| #10 Penn Wrath Inshore Spinning Reel | Check Price » |
Inshore saltwater spinning reels Reviews
1. Shimano Inshore Spinning Reel
This saltwater spinning reel for inshore fishing boasts a Hagane body. That means that the body of the reel is made from metal and is very stiff that does away with the flexing of the body. It increases the cranking power, allowing you to reel in the catch using the strength of the reel body.
Product Specs
- Hagane body
- X-ship gear
- SA-RB ball bearings
- Cross carbon drag
- G-free body
Why We Recommend This Product
We feel this is one of the best inshore saltwater spinning reels. The design of the spool ensures smooth casts and you can easily achieve the casting distance you want. The retrieval too is smooth and strong. We found that the drag did a great job playing with the fish. It is easy to tighten the drag and change the direction that the fish swims and bring it closer to you.
Pros
- Metal reel body
- Durable gear
- Corrosion-resistant
- Smooth performance
- Wide range of drag settings
Cons
- A few customers have complained of poor assembly
Tip: Use lighter lures to improve casting performance of this inshore saltwater spinning reel and you will be able to cast the line further into the water.
Info alert: This inshore saltwater spinning reel does not have an anti-reverse lever, and this makes the reel watertight.
2. Okuma Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel
This saltwater fishing reel is made from the best quality materials and is extremely dependable. The pinion gear is made from brass and it is precise and accurate. It has anti-reverse gear that makes it easy to reel in the line with the fish.
Product Specs
- Some in different sizes depending on the type of water
- Bait feeding system
- Anti-reverse
- Pinion gear made from brass
Why We Recommend This Product
We loved the smooth performance of the reel. The live bait feeding system is really great and it helps the fish to grab on to the bait without feeling the drag. It is a superior quality inshore saltwater spinning reel that makes it easy to cast far distances with relative ease.
Pros
- High-quality construction
- Trip bait feeding mechanism
- Anti-reverse lever
- Smooth retrieve
- Can be used in saltwater and freshwater
Cons
- Some complaints related to the disengage drag lever
Tip: Use reel sizes 65 and 80 for saltwater fishing to catch large fish.
Info alert: Use the bait feeder system to ensure you get ample catch during your fishing trips.
3. Penn Spinfisher Saltwater Spinning Reel
If you are looking for the best spinning reel for braided line, take a closer look at Penn Spinfisher Saltwater Spinning Reel. This watertight reel performs extremely well in saltwater and sandy conditions. It is durable and long-lasting.
Product Specs
- Metal body and side plate
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
- Drag system
- Friction trip ramp
- CNC gear technology
Why We Recommend This Product
It is one of the best inshore saltwater spinning reels you will find on the market. It can be used with a braided line and that makes it a winner in our eyes. It is extremely reliable, and the construction is sturdy. The drag is smooth and you can use the friction trip ramp to ensure that premature bail trip does not occur when you cast the line.
Pros
- Reliable spinning reel
- Superior finish
- Has a smooth drag
- Comes with a Superline spool
Cons
- Heavier than similar spinning reels
- Does not come with a spare spool
Tip: Besides inshore saltwater fishing, you can also use this spinning reel for kayak fishing.
Info alert: The factory setting of the reel can be customized to suit your inshore saltwater fishing needs.
4. Penn Battle II Saltwater Spinning Reel
This inshore saltwater spinning reel is designed to catch large fish. It comes with a full metal body, rotor, and side plate, making it long-lasting and durable. You do not have to contend with corrosion.
Related: Penn Battle vs Fierce
Product Specs
- Metal body, side plate, and rotor
- 5 stainless steel ball bearings that are sealed
- Anti-reverse
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
Why We Recommend This Product
This inshore saltwater spinning reel has a great finish and superior performance. It is smooth while reeling in the fish and perfect for large game fishing in saltwater. It comes with superline spool that is already braided and hence, it does not need backing.
See also: Our full review of Penn Battle II
Pros
- Superior finish
- Metal body and rotor
- Smooth performance
- Superline spool
- Anti-reverse mechanism
- Ambidextrous use
Cons
- It may not be as watertight as the manufacturer claims
Tip: The handle is connected to the reel and when you are trying to fight a fish, pushing down the handle tightens it and prevents the handle from unscrewing.
Info alert: The reel can be adjusted for right- or left-hand use. You can do this by unscrewing the handle and cap and adjusting it.
5. Shimano Baitrunner Saltwater Spinning Reel
This high-quality spinning reel is made from graphite, making it durable and resilient. It can resist corrosion brought on by saltwater exposure. It is compact and powerful and ensures smooth performance.
Product Specs
- Graphite construction
- Secondary drag system
- Live bait reel
- Dyna-Balance to eliminate wobbling
Why We Recommend This Product
While this electric fishing reel packs power, it is lightweight. It weighs approximately 11 lb. Hence, it is comfortable to hold and use for extended durations. We also liked the fact that the fishing reel is compatible with saltwater. The anti-rust ball bearings ensure durability.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed
- Can manage the weight of large fish without sustaining damage
- Affordably priced
- Smooth performance
Cons
- If you are not careful, the line can break
Tip: Use the bait runner feature to live line or drift bait with a slight drag.
Info alert: Ergonomically designed fishing reel handle, which also has rubber knobs to ensure optimal comfort while operating the fishing reel.
6. KastKing III Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel
This saltwater spinning reel for inshore fishing is the third generation reel by KastKing. It has the superior features of the first two generations, making it a fantastic spinning reel.
Product Specs
- Reinforced graphite rotor and body
- Brass pinion gears
- Carbon fiber drag
- Main shaft is made from stainless steel
Why We Recommend This Product
The price does not do justice to the quality, but inshore fishermen will be happy with the affordability. It is resilient and durable and can take a lot of rough usage without showing any ill-effects. The KastKing Intrusion Shield System, or KISS, keeps water and sand out of the reel, ensuring it does not sustain any damage. This is the perfect spinning reel for braided line, and the spool comes braid-ready so you can put it to immediate test if you like.
Pros
- Graphite body
- One year warranty
- Resists corrosion
- Lightweight and compact
- Spool is braided
Cons
- Complaints of faulty gears
Tip: You can change the spinning reel for left-handed or right-handed use, depending on your requirements.
Info alert: The compact size and sheer power allow you to use the spinning reel with just about any kind of fishing rod.
7. Diwa Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel
This inshore saltwater spinning reel by Diwa is made from aluminum alloy. It is highly durable and there is no risk of the body fracturing or cracking. It can be used both in saltwater and freshwater.
Product Specs
- Aluminum body
- CNC-machined handle
- Stainless steel ball bearing
- Anti-reverse mechanism
- One year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
The spinning reel is smooth and performance-oriented. It has a durable construction and we believe with proper maintenance, it will last for years. We loved the smooth performance of the spinning reel; the drag adjusts. What we liked is that the reel is balanced and this minimizes fatigue.
Pros
- Aluminum body
- Designed for left- and right-hand use
- One year warranty
- Can be used in freshwater and saltwater
- Smooth performance
Cons
- May not be water-resistant
Tip: You can use this spinning reel with monofilament or braided line, depending on your choice.
Info alert: This reel is designed for catching game fish and you will find that its powerful drag is quite effective in helping you reel in the fish with ease.
8. Sougayilang Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel
The spinning reel by Sougayilang is designed for saltwater. It comes with ball bearings that are resistant to corrosion. The performance is smooth and powerful, without sacrificing the drag.
Product Specs
- Metal body
- Reinforced metal main shaft
- Carbon drag washers
- Brass gears
- Aluminum handle
Why We Recommend This Product
Sougaliyang is a well-known brand, and it does not disappoint with this inshore saltwater spinning reel. It is durable and performance-oriented. It can be used by beginners and experienced fishermen. It is powerful and lets you catch game fish with ease. Though made from metal, it is lightweight and does not cause fatigue. It will well-balanced.
Pros
- Resistant to corrosion
- Superior drag
- Main shaft made from metal
- CNC-machine pinion gear
- Smooth performance
- Can also be used in freshwater
- Comes with an extra spool
Cons
- Requires regular lubrication
Tip: The spinning reel can be adjusted for left-handed or right-handed use with relative ease.
Info alert: Make sure that before you use the spinning reel the first time, you lubricate it well. Thereafter, lubricate it every few months to ensure optimal performance.
9. Daiwa Saltwater Spinning Reel
This spinning reel comes with a hard body made from aluminum. That makes it extremely durable and resilient. The body is anodized, making it resistant to corrosion and scratches.
Product Specs
- Black anodized aluminum body
- Anti-reverse system
- Spool with braided line
- Air rotor
- 6 ball bearings
- Roller bearing
Why We Recommend This Product
We loved that the spinning reel is solid. It is bigger in size compared to similar spinning reels, and its performance is also better than most. You will find that the drag is smooth. This is another high-quality spinning reel for braided line, and you will not be disappointed with its performance.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Smooth performance
- Durable
- Affordably priced
- Resistant to corrosion
Cons
- A few users claim that the spinning reel is not very durable and long-lasting
Tip: Make sure you rinse the reel with fresh water to ensure its longevity.
Info alert: The air rotor is not that heavy and this helps to uniformly distribute the stress so that you enjoy maximum strength.
10. Penn Wrath Inshore Spinning Reel
This inshore saltwater spinning reel by Penn has a graphite body that is surprisingly lightweight. It has stainless steel ball bearings that ensure smooth drag and performance.
Product Specs
- Graphite body
- Anodized aluminum spool
- Spool is braided line-ready
- Line capacity rings
- Stainless steel ball bearings
Why We Recommend This Product
We found this spinning reel priced competitively. If you are budget-conscious, this is the perfect inshore saltwater spinning reel for you. It is lightweight and well-balanced. This minimizes fatigue. It is quite resilient and offers a smooth performance. We found the drag quite smooth and this came as a surprise to us.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Designed for braided line
- CNC-machined aluminum spool
- Corrosion-resistant
- Anti-reverse
- Smooth performance
- Comes lubricated
Cons
- Can corrode without proper maintenance
Tip: Make sure you rinse and lubricate the reel to prevent corrosion and ensure longevity.
Info alert: It can be used by left-handed and right-handed inshore fishermen.
Buying Guide for the Best Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reels
Now that you have checked our inshore saltwater spinning reels review, it is time to look at the features that ensure you choose the best spinning reel for inshore saltwater fishing.
Line Capacity:
It is prudent to remember that saltwater can be deep and wide. So, you should look for a spinning reel that has sufficient line capacity so that you can cast the line deep and also prevent the catch from speeding away. The minimum line capacity should be 300 yards. However, if you can get a longer line capacity, go for it. It will make the difference between catching a fish and boasting or spinning tall tales.
Compatible for Braided Line:
When you are fishing in saltwater, opt for a spinning reel that is designed for braided fishing line. This will ensure that the line does not slip while reel in the fish, you will not have to worry about the line getting tangled in the gaps of the bail, and it will withstand the pressure if you happen to catch a feisty fish that resists being reeled in. The best reel would be one that is compatible with both braided line and monofilament line. So, you can switch the line based on your needs.
Weight of the Spinning Reel:
Remember, you will be holding onto the spinning reel for casting and retrieving. You will stay put for several hours. So, if the reel is heavy, it will take a toll on your casting ability. On the other hand, if you go for a slightly lighter reel, it will be easier to cast and retrieve without affecting your enjoyment.
Corrosion Protection:
Saltwater is harsh, corrosive, and abrasive. When you are enjoying inshore fishing, you will be spending hours tossing the line and reeling it in. As a result, the reel and its internal parts will get wet. Make sure you opt for an inshore saltwater fishing reel that has adequate corrosion protection so that you do not get worried if it gets splashed by a wave or you drop the fishing rod in water. Of course, do remember that even with corrosion protection, you will still have to clean and lubricate the spinning reel to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
Drag of the Spinning Reel:
Drag refers to the friction and resistance that occurs when you reel in the line. You may feel that drag is inconsequential. On the contrary, make sure that the spinning reel you choose has a high drag that is adequate to tire and reel in the biggest fish you catch on a specific day. The drag of the best inshore saltwater spinning reels should be around 30 to 40lb; anything more than that will tire you and will cause you to use your arm strength. Nonetheless, higher drag ensures you are equipped to tackle a sudden burst of strength from the fish.
Ball Bearings of the Spinning Reel:
Inside the spinning reel, metal parts are constantly rotating when you are using it. Ensure that the reel you choose has ball bearings and not bushings, which can get damaged and do not offer a smooth performance. Ball bearings ensure that internal moving parts operate smoothly and you will find that reels with bearings actually perform quite well.
Gear Ratio of the Spinning Reel:
Spinning reels have internal gears that work to boost the power every time you turn the handle. When a spinning reel has a low gear ratio, you would have to rotate the handle several times to retrieve the same length of the line as a spinning reel with a high gear ratio. Opt for a spinning reel with a high gear ratio. However, if you are opting for live baits, a lower gear ratio is what you should be looking at. Higher gear ratio is perfect for inshore saltwater fishing and for retrieving lures.
Our Verdict
These are the top 10 best saltwater spinning reels on the market. Out of these, we recommend the Shimano Inshore Spinning Reel. It comes with a Hagane body which is a metal body that is rigid. Since there is no flexing, it enhances the cranking power of the spinning reel. The reel is perfect for saltwater as it comes with ball bearings and is resistant to corrosion. It has smooth performance and ensures you can choose from a range of drag settings. You can use it with light or heavy lures and the compact size and weight of the reel ensures you do not suffer from fatigue.
Updated: October 28, 2022
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