Lew's has made countless contributions in the field of high-quality fishing reels, including large and small spool spinning reels, aluminum oxide guides, the 'Power Up' drag system, and the V-shaped casting spool. Today, the brand stays true to its original principles of developing faster, stronger, and lighter rods and reels.
With so many different models available today, choosing the best Lew's reel can be a very exhausting and difficult task.
To help you find a unit that best suits your needs, this guide includes detailed reviews of some of the best Lew's models and the things to consider before making a purchase.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Lews Reels
- OUR TOP PICK: Lew's Fishing Mach II Spin Reels
- BEST LEWS SPINNING REEL: Lew's Fishing Wally Marshall (WMSS100 )
- BEST LEWS CRAPPIE REEL: Lew's Fishing WMR5
Comparison of the Best Lews Reels
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Who is Lews?
Founded by Lew Childre in 1949, Lew's gained popularity by designing high-class fishing rods. With the Speed Stick graphite casting rod as their signature model, the company's products quickly became fishing staples for amateurs and professionals alike. Over the next 40 years, during which the Childre family licensed the brand, the family-run business made countless major contributions that completely changed the face of recreational sport fishing.
Today, the brand is owned by a longtime childhood family friend, Lynn Reeves, and Peak Rock Capital. However, it still religiously follows the original principles of designing innovative products that are faster, stronger, and lighter.
How Does Lews Compare to the Competition?
Lew's is one of those brands that you just don't hear enough about. With an extremely loyal following, it can easily compare to other high-end brands. The company performs exceptionally in several different areas, including:
Innovation
Being the very principle on which this company was founded, Lew's has always developed products that create waves in the fishing industry.
In 1973, the company created the Speed Spool reel using high-quality components and an innovative teardrop design. This low-profile model then beautifully outperformed the commonly used round-profile units. Furthermore, the company won the 'Best Rod and Reel Combo' at the 2019 ICAST show, making it its 6th consecutive award.
Built to Last
The company's commitment to quality has been deeply embedded into every employee, and they strive to develop innovative and new products that are faster, stronger, and lighter. Products are further backed by 1-year warranties, which clearly shows the company's confidence in its products.
Variety
Lew's has made numerous contributions that have completely changed recreational sport fishing. Along with the Speed Spool and Speed Stick, it offers a wide range of quality products, including aluminum oxide guides, Speed Sticker worm hooks, Fuji FPS reel seats, single-foot guide frames, unique spinning rod handles, Magic Carpet trolling motor, and V-shaped casting spools.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Materials: The materials the reel is made of.
- Weight: The actual weight of the reel.
- Hand Orientation: Which dominant hand the reel is made for.
- Bearing Type and Material: The number or type of bearings inside the reel and also the bearing material.
- Gear Ratio: This tells you the number of times the reel spool turns with each crank of the handle.
- Maximum Drag: The amount of force the reel can withstand without the line slipping.
- Line Compatibility: Which line types the reel is meant to be used with.
Review of the Best Lews Reels
Choosing the right reel is no piece of cake. To help you find a model that best suits your individual fishing needs, here are detailed reviews of some of the best reels created by Lew's:
Best Overall:
Lew's Fishing Mach II Spin Reels
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This product has mixed reviews. Some users stated that it had good retrieve speed and drag and matched the quality of models that cost twice as much. One person said that they never experienced a problem in the two years they used it. However, some customers said that it broke after only a few uses, while some reported receiving broken rods.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Offering performance every angler can count on, this rock-solid unit is built for durability and reliability in all stages of its operation. Beautifully combining a high-strength carbon skeletal speed rotor, plenty of high-quality metal, and a tough aluminum side plate and body, it ensures integrity and delivers exceptional performance in tough on-the-water conditions.
Who Will Use This Most
Thanks to its 6:2:1 gear ratio, this unit is suitable for several different fishing applications. It's designed with enough force and power to catch a range of weights, including small, medium, and some larger species as well. The double-shielded bearings further protect the internal mechanisms from outdoor elements, making the unit ideal for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Bottom Line
Featuring a high-strength Carbon Skeletal Speed Rotor and a durable aluminum body and side plate, this model is designed for the long haul. While the S-curve oscillation ensures an excellent flow with an even line lay, the unit may start to make noise after a couple of uses.
Product Specs
Material:
Synthetic, aluminum, C40 carbon
Weight:
8.4 oz
Hand Orientation:
Ambidextrous
Bearing Type and Material:
9+1 double-shielded stainless steel bearings
Gear Ratio:
6.2:1
Maximum Drag:
13 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Mono and Braided
Best Lews Spinning Reel:
Lew's Fishing Wally Marshall (WMSS100)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of the buyers loved this unit and reported that it provided excellent value for money. They found the casting to be extremely smooth and the grip to be incredibly comfortable. While most users stated that it was a reliable unit, some were disappointed with the quality of the handle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit is the best Lew's spinning reel for several different reasons. Firstly, the graphite unit is designed with a double anodized aluminum spool, a gear ratio of 5.1:1, and a skeletal rotor. Secondly, its 4 bearings feature a Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing for smooth, easy retrievals. Lastly, the high-density split-grip handles are EVA-cushioned, offering a comfortable and firm grasp.
Who Will Use This Most
This unit is designed for freshwater fishing and does a particularly good job of catching crappies. It pairs well with the Lew's Wally Marshal spinning rod, and can further be used for bass and pan fishing.
Bottom Line
To put it simply, this model is undoubtedly one of the best spinning reels available today. A collapsible handle makes it suitable for both left and right-handed anglers, while its 4-bearing system ensures smooth and swift retrievals. However, the quality and design of the handle could be improved.
Product Specs
Material:
Anodized Aluminum, Graphite, Aluminum
Weight:
9.6 oz
Hand Orientation:
Ambidextrous
Bearing Type and Material:
4BB + 1ZRCB
Gear Ratio:
5.0:1
Line Compatibility:
Mono and Braided
Best Lews Crappie Reel:
Lew's Fishing WMR5
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people who invested in this unit were extremely happy with their purchase and loved its quality and performance. Buyers liked the selectable clicker mode and stated that the high-visibility line was twist-free and easy to see. However, some users found it difficult to reset the line release, while some were disappointed by the lack of level wind.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model stands out from its competition for several different reasons. Featuring a 6:1:1 gear ratio and precision-machined brass gearing, it ensures faster, smoother retrieves. The durable one-piece graphite side plates and frame ensure durability, while the dual-grip handle allows easy cranking. Moreover, the unit is pre-spooled with the Mr.Crappie high-visibility mono line, ensuring ease of use.
Who Will Use This Most
This powerful little model is designed for jigging and spider rigging in heavy cover, allowing year-round crappie fishing. The free spool function further makes it ideal for dropping light panfish jigs.
Bottom Line
Designed from scratch, this model is a scaled-down casting reel that features true free spool functionality. Better than most mini crappie reels, it's more than just a line holder. All in all, it's extremely lightweight but is designed with incredible power.
Product Specs
Material:
Synthetic, Stainless Steel, Graphite
Weight:
6.4 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
2BB
Gear Ratio:
6.1:1
Maximum Drag:
10 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Monofilament
Best Lews Baitcasting Reel:
Lew's Fishing Tournament Pro LFS
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Almost everyone who purchased this unit was impressed by its performance and smoothness. Users said that it felt great in their hands, with some stating that it was the best reel they had ever used. They said that it required minimal adjustment, and allowed them to skip bait under docks and into dense cover. However, some felt that more color choices should be added.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Featuring a titanium-coated zirconium line guide, this model gives an extremely smooth cast and retrieve. However, its exceptional ability to handle wind issues with lighter bait is where it truly shines. It also remains sturdy under intense pressure, allowing anglers to catch fish in flooded bushes as well.
Who Will Use This Most
Packed with incredible features, this model is perfect for both fun weekend getaways and tournament bass fishing. It can also be used to cast heavier inshore saltwater bait.
Bottom Line
Combining the company's unwavering dedication to innovation and quality with competition caliber performance, this unit completely satisfies an angler's demands. Quality construction extends gear life and enhances durability, while combat grips increase traction, ensuring a firm grip in all weather conditions.
Product Specs
Material:
Stainless Steel, Aluminum
Weight:
7.8 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
11 stainless steel double-shielded ball bearings
Gear Ratio:
7.5:1
Maximum Drag:
20 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Monofilament
Best Lews Catfish Reel:
Lew's Fishing SC600
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers loved this unit and stated that it could handle larger fish very well. They found it to be incredibly durable and smooth, with one user even stating that it was the best reel they had ever used for catfishing. However, some customers reported that they had to tighten the screws after every high wobble lure.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Designed with a 100mm power handle, oversized EVA grips, and a rugged 5-bearing system, this model is a powerful combination of quality craftsmanship and incredible strength. Moreover, its quality carbon fiber drag system stays smooth through its entire range, while its 6-pin centrifugal brake system provides precision cast control with all wind conditions and lure weights.
Who Will Use This Most
Featuring a classic round reel design and serious line capacity, this unit is ideal for catching the biggest fish in the water with the biggest bait available. Along with being perfect for long-distance casting, it can also be used to catch snook, redfish, catfish, and stripper.
Bottom Line
Boasting the consistent functioning and dependability Lew's is famous for, this model has everything you'd be looking for in a round reel. Along with a no-flex housing, it's designed with a 6 pin centrifugal brake system for precision cast control. However, the construction quality of the bait clicker could be improved.
Product Specs
Material:
Stainless Steel, Aluminum
Weight:
14 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
4+1
Gear Ratio:
5.3:1
Maximum Drag:
15 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Monofilament
6. Lew's Fishing American Heroes
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were impressed with the weight and the size of this unit and stated that they would not hesitate to purchase it again. Users found both the retrieve and the drag to be extremely smooth. While customers found it easy to cast, some reported that it broke down after a few uses.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Along with showing dedication to country and community, this unit also represents a fierce commitment to high performance and structural integrity. At 7.2 ounces, it maintains an extremely lightweight nature, making it easier and more comfortable for anglers to fish for prolonged hours. Casting is also controlled and smooth, while the graphite star drag system offers 10 pounds of power.
Who Will Use This Most
Designed with a one-piece IM6 graphite blank, this model is extremely sensitive and can detect the smallest and lightest of bites, making it perfect for all fishing situations. Being an ideal entry-level baitcaster, it has the power to handle fish larger than bass, the speed for lake trout, and the capability to catch 15lb freshwater drum.
Bottom Line
This unit has always been praised for its smooth and strong feel and its overall ease of use. Both the weight and design encourage comfort, while its precise gear interface ensures a smooth cranking power. However, packaging and quality control could be improved.
Product Specs
Material:
Synthetic, aluminum, stainless steel
Weight:
7.2 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
4SS + 1RB
Gear Ratio:
6.4:1
Maximum Drag:
10 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Braided
7. Lew's Mach Crush Baitcast Reel
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Almost everyone who purchased this unit was surprised by its performance and found it to be unbelievably smooth. They stated that the retrieve was perfect and loved its flawless performance and fantastic design. While users reported that the unit fit perfectly in their hand, they were disappointed that the left-hand retrieve was sold at a different price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Capable of throwing odd throwing lures, such as jerkbait incredibly far distances, this model primarily stands out to us because of its casting distance. The grips are also extremely comfortable and easy to hold on to during a fight or flight reflex. The innovative SLP design further gives the unit an ultra-compact profile, making it easy to use.
Who Will Use This Most
Featuring a 20-pound carbon drag system, this model can pull the biggest fish in the sea. While it's capable of flipping a one-ounce tungsten weight or slinging a large deep-diving crankbait all day, it's also incredibly agile, and can be used with much lighter lures as well.
Bottom Line
All in all, this unit certainly deserves a place on our list of top picks. Its stainless steel bearings, zero-reverse one-way clutch, and high-end 10-bearing system delivers exceptional performance. The crankshaft and main gear are solid brass, while the carbon fiber drag system offers 20-pounds of drag power. However, the palming plate can easily come off.
Product Specs
Material:
Synthetic, Stainless Steel
Weight:
7.3 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
9+1 double-shielded stainless steel bearings
Gear Ratio:
7.5:1
Maximum Drag:
20 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Mono and Braided
Best Lews Inshore Reel:
Lew's Fishing SSN1SH
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were extremely satisfied with their purchase and stated that the unit worked great. They said that it fit perfectly in their hand, had a decent amount of drag, and was incredibly smooth. Users particularly loved the fact that it could be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. However, some customers were disappointed with its durability in saltwater.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The unit's enhanced precision and speed for flipping and pitching are what make it the best Lew's inshore reel. Featuring custom SoftTouch paddle knobs, it allows anglers to stay out on the water for extended hours without compromising comfort. The Magnetic Control System and spool tension knob further ensure that braking and tension are adjusted to individual specifications.
Who Will Use This Most
Whether you're a professional or a beginner, this unit offers the perfect amount of accessibility and performance to suit all different styles and learning curves. Designed for the flats, it's ideal for anything from finesse fishing for flounder and trout to reeling in a big redfish.
Bottom Line
Representing Lew's faster, stronger, lighter concept, this model is a lightweight powerhouse that can pull double-duty in both saltwater and freshwater. Whether you're fishing in shallow, inshore flats or deep reservoirs, it will surely deliver an exceptional performance centered around dependability and rugged design.
Product Specs
Material:
Aluminum, Stainless Steel
Weight:
10.24 oz
Hand Orientation:
Right Hand
Bearing Type and Material:
6BB+1RB
Gear Ratio:
7.5:1
Maximum Drag:
20 lbs
Line Compatibility:
Braided
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?
The right fishing reel can make the difference between a stressful and successful fishing trip. Thus, it's important that you learn as much as you can about purchasing one. To help you with your decision, the following are some things you should keep in mind before you finalize your purchase:
Freshwater or Saltwater
It's important to decide whether you'll be fishing more in freshwater or saltwater. Saltwater fishing requires a high-quality reel, while freshwater fishing can be done with just about any reel. Since saltwater usually has some underwater monsters, make sure that the reel you choose is corrosion resistant and strong enough to withstand any possible stress.
Weight
Fishing can take countless hours, and after some time, you'll start to feel every ounce. To avoid extra weight, fatigue, and wrist injuries, it's better to purchase a light fishing reel. This way, you'll stay comfortable even after hours of reeling and casting.
Compatibility With Your Rod
It's possible that your fishing reel may not work with your fishing rod. So, make sure that you check the specifications before making your purchase. Lew's usually provides suggestions about which reels work best with which rods and which ones you should avoid combining.
Conclusion
All in all, Lew's fishing reels perfectly showcase a consistent dedication to value and innovation, making them one of the best brands available today. Although some models are more suitable than others, all of them feature innovative design, state-of-the-art technology, and outstanding performance.
Regardless of your experience level and background, you'll undoubtedly find a unit that perfectly suits your fishing needs. To put it simply, purchasing a Lew's reel means investing in years of proven performance and quality.
People Also Ask
Choosing the right Lew's reel can be a very technical and confusing task, especially for beginners. To help make this decision easier and clear away any confusion you might have, here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
Who Makes Lews Reels?
All of Lew's reels are made by Doyo, an engineering company based in South Korea.
How to Adjust Lews Speed Spool
To adjust the Speed Spool, reel the lure in until it sits on the rod's tip. Tighten the knob until it’s taut, push down the thumb bar, hold the rod in a horizontal position, and slowly loosen the adjustment knob until the lure starts to lower. Once the lure hits the ground, the spool should still continue to spin, but should only complete one full rotation. If it doesn't spin, the knob is too tight. Similarly, if it completes more than one full rotation, the knob is too loose. Repeat this process until you've achieved the desired results.
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