Best Inshore Spinning Reels – 2021 Guide

| Last Updated February 11, 2022

Inshore fishing is surely the easiest type of fishing that is loved by almost everyone. A rod complemented by a reliable reel can really make a difference in your fishing trips.

An inshore fishing reel with a classic design and top-class performance will surely make fishing blissful. If you want to experience the same feeling, you have landed in the right place.

In this article, we will be reviewing some high-end winners to help you choose the best one for you.

Comparison of the Best Inshore Spinning Reels

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Best Inshore Saltwarer Spinning Reel
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Weight: 1.875 lbs
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Can Any Reel Be Used For Inshore Fishing?

An inshore fishing reel is specially designed to be used in water that is not away from the shore. This type of fishing can be done in water that is not very deep, and this is the reason it is enjoyed by most people.

Not all types of reels can be used for inshore fishing, as the inshore fishing reels are particularly designed for saltwater. A reel with a smooth and strong drag can help you land on the biggest fish in the pond. Generally, a rod that is 7-7.5 feet long needs to be accompanied by a corrosion-resistant reel of lighter weight. The reel should be large in size and must feature a line capacity of 200-300 yards for a quick retrieve in water.

How to Choose a Spinning Reel For Inshore Fishing

Picking a spinning reel can be extremely daunting, especially when you have tons of options in front of you. Well, we have simplified the search for you. Read on to find out some of the major features that contribute to making a great product for your needs. Let’s discuss them one by one!

Sturdy Construction

The most prominent feature of any reliable reel is its fine construction. Reels are made from resin, metal, and aluminum.

Make sure to choose a model made from high-quality materials as it is likely to last a long time. The strength of the frame determines the reliability of the reel.

Water-Proof

A water-proof model is capable of enduring harsh conditions without compromising on the performance. Always pick a model that is water-resistant to bring value to your money.

Lightweight

Another important characteristic of a great reel is its low weight. The weight is directly affected by the material of construction. Make sure you go for a model that is lightweight and highly portable.

Ease of Installation

This is undoubtedly a notable feature in any reel. The model must be user-friendly and does not require too much struggle from the user in installation. It is extremely important if you are fond of fishing on a routine basis. Moreover, the incorporation of a fine spool-system tends to reduce friction, which adds a comfort level to your overall experience.

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 Inshore Spinning Reels

So that was all about the important features that must not be overlooked whenever you intend to make a purchase. Let’s begin with the review of our hot-favorite models that, according to us, are worth the investment.

Best Overall and Inshore Saltwater Spinning Reel:
Daiwa BG8000

Daiwa BG8000 BG Saltwater Spinning Reel, 8000, 5.3: 1 Gear Ratio, 6+1 Bearings, 53.30' Retrieve Rate, 33 lb Max Drag, Black/gold

PROS

  • ABS spool to ensure no friction
  • Over-sized Digigear to provide strength
  • Made from fine aluminum to guarantee reliability
  • Nice and appealing design for particular customers
  • Water-proof drag system to endure tough conditions

CONS

  • Relatively expensive model
  • Must be handled with great care
  • Customer service is not impressive

What Recent Buyers Report 

Customers of this model are very happy with its performance as they report that it delivers a smooth and strong fishing experience. The design is lightweight and attractive. Moreover, you don't have to spend too much time on its installation. Lastly, it is water-proof, marking the reliability of the product.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This model is equipped with an aluminum construction to ensure durability. Moreover, the design is lightweight plus incorporated with top-notch technology to give you seamless operation. The drag-system is water-resistant, plus the ABS spool is meant to remove any friction during fishing. Moreover, there is a dual-anti reverse system to add on to perfection.

Who Will Use This Most 

The high-quality build of this model makes it perfect for freshwater fishing. It can be employed by anglers to improve their fishing trip. Moreover, the water-proof capability and ideal spool make it a perfect choice for beginners who love to go fishing. Lastly, the line capacity is great for any enthusiastic fisherman.

Bottom Line

In case you are looking for a tough reel with appreciable performance, then you must get your hands on this reel from Daiwa. It is made from aluminum and embodies an attractive design. Similarly, the incorporation of air rotor, dynamic spool, and water-proof drag-system ensures remarkable operation. Honestly, it is one of the best deals. 

Product Specs

Material:

Aluminum

Weight:

1.875 lbs

Hand Orientation:

Right Hand

Bearing Type and Material:

6BB+1RB aluminum

Gear Ratio:

5.3:1

Maximum Drag:

33 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Braided

2. Shimano Stradic HG

Shimano STRADIC HG, Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel

PROS

  • X-ship technology to remove any friction
  • Built-in rotor to add to the comfortable experience
  • Suitable for both inshore and offshore applications
  • Smooth and attractive design with appealing appearance
  • Manufactured from quality materials to ensure the durability of the product

CONS

  • No waterproof feature
  • A bit overpriced model
  • Might produce some irritating noise

What Recent Buyers Report 

Users of this product are extremely satisfied with its durability and functionality. They report that the model is very lightweight and does not get heavy on the backpack. Moreover, the installation is easy, and the top-notch quality can’t be questioned. Lastly, the incorporation of advanced technology gives you a smooth experience during fishing.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This model from Shimano mainly stands out to us for its durability and fine construction. It is made from high-end reinforced carbon that is capable of withstanding harsh conditions. Moreover, there is X-ship technology that allows you to continue shipping without putting much effort. In short, it is specially designed to ease the task for an angler on the water.

Who Will Use This Most 

A highly versatile model, this reel can be used for both inshore and offshore applications. It is incorporated with some advanced technology that makes fishing very easy even for beginners. It can be used by professionals as well to give them a smooth, strong, and long-lasting performance during fishing.

Bottom Line

An extraordinary model with a range of features, this is built to serve the user in the long run. Not only is the design very attractive, but the construction is durable as well. Moreover, the reel ensures a smooth and perfect experience to its users during their fishing adventures on the water.

Product Specs

Material:

Aluminum

Weight:

0.43125 lbs

Hand Orientation:

Ambidextrous

Bearing Type and Material:

6 six shielded AR-B

Gear Ratio:

6.0:1

Maximum Drag:

7 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Mono and Braided

3. Penn Clash Spinning Fishing Reel

Penn Clash Spinning Fishing Reel

PROS

  • A beautiful design with a black finish
  • Offers smooth and effortless drag during operation
  • With full-body metal construction, it is meant to last long
  • Equipped with anti-reverse bearing to add on to perfection
  • An extremely lightweight model that is easy to carry around

CONS

  • Bearing quality is not impressive
  • Customer service must be improved
  • Might face problems while adjusting the bail

What Recent Buyers Report 

This model has impressed many customers with its sturdy build. According to them, the design is very unique and attractive while the performance is flawless as well. It is compact and very lightweight, thus, it’s a highly portable model. Lastly, the installation is just a breeze and does not require much time.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

Manufactured from reliable metal, this model has a heavy-duty aluminum bail wire to mark perfection. Not only is the construction amazing, but the design is very lightweight and impressive as well. It comes with a smooth oscillation system and a techno-balanced rotor to provide an effortless experience to the anglers during fishing.

Who Will Use This Most 

It is just the right choice for anyone who is fond of fishing. Apart from the durable construction, this model is well-known for its high-end performance on freshwater. It can be employed by experts, as well as, beginners for a smooth yet robust fishing experience during their outings on the water.

Bottom Line

An all-rounder with quality metal construction, this reel from Penn is very popular for its seamless operation. The light weight makes it very portable, plus the Leveline oscillation system delivers precision for the anglers. Moreover, the 8 sealed stainless steel bearings are just perfect for freshwater. Overall, this freshwater reel is versatile and reliable.

Product Specs

Material:

Full metal body and heavy-duty aluminum bail wire

Weight:

2 lbs

Hand Orientation:

Ambidextrous

Bearing Type and Material:

8+1 stainless steel ball bearing

Gear Ratio:

6.2:1

Line Compatibility:

Mono and Braided

4. Penn Conflict II

Penn CFTII1000 Conflictii Spinning Fishing Reel

PROS

  • A matte black finish gives an impressive look
  • Surely the most economical option on the list
  • User-friendly and extremely lightweight model
  • Comes with a rigid resin body to enhance longevity
  • 8 sealed stainless steel ball-bearing system for smooth function

CONS

  • Might break easily
  • A few concerns over quality
  • Not suitable for extreme demanding situations

What Recent Buyers Report 

This model has earned many great ratings from customers due to its nice design and smooth operation. They report that the construction is reliable, plus the incorporation of ball bearings improves the seamless functionality to a great extent. Moreover, it is lightweight and can be taken along everywhere.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This reel mainly stands out from its customers due to the affordable price tag. It is made from heavy-duty resin that ensures durability for a long time. Moreover, the design is attractive with a matte black finish. It comes with CNC gear technology, making it perfect for anglers and super line spool to avoid any resistance.

Who Will Use This Most 

It is highly recommended for those who can’t afford to spend tons of money on a simple reel. This model comes with advanced technology, which makes it a perfect choice for many expert anglers to add on to their experience. Moreover, it is lightweight and thus, useful for those who love to go fishing very often.

Bottom Line

Another great product on the list, this model is known for its durability and smooth operation. Made from quality resin and equipped with a carbon fiber drag washer, this reel can be used by beginners and professionals for respective purposes. Overall, if you need a reliable reel in an affordable range, go for this model.

Product Specs

Material:

Rigid Resin RR30 body and rotor

Weight:

0.4625 lbs

Hand Orientation:

Ambidextrous

Bearing Type and Material:

7+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing

Gear Ratio:

6.2:1

Maximum Drag:

10-15 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Mono and Braided

Best Lews inshore Spinning Reel:
Lew’s Fishing TPI300

Lews Fishing TPI300 TP1 Inshore Speed Spinning Reel, 6.2: 1 Gear Ratio, 32' Retrieve Rate, 7 Bearings, Left Hand

PROS

  • Robust yet very lightweight model
  • Exquisite design with a shiny appearance
  • Double anodized spool for avoiding restriction
  • Composed of fine materials to make it last a long time
  • Includes stainless steel bail wire for improved performance

CONS

  • Makes noise at times
  • Relatively overpriced model
  • Reel handle might kick the bail during fast reeling

What Recent Buyers Report 

Just like our other reviewed models, this model has made a popular position among users. The customers report that it is very lightweight, and installation does not require professional help. Moreover, the construction is reliable, and it is very smooth in its operation. Lastly, the user-friendly design makes handling very convenient.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This reel is well-known for its sleek and user-friendly design. It is established from high-end aluminum to give you long-lasting performance. Moreover, it incorporates a 7 bearing system to give you an incredible fishing experience. With this reel, there would hardly be any friction issue, thanks to the double anodized aluminum spool.

Who Will Use This Most 

It is surely a great choice for any professional angler who is enthusiastic about fishing. The seamless operation makes it perfect for freshwater outings, plus reliable construction tends to last for a long period of time. Moreover, the easy handling of this reel makes it suitable for beginners as well.

Bottom Line

A powerhouse of features, this reel makes its way to our list for its durability, reliability, and flawless construction. It is equally useful for any beginner as well as experts. Moreover, the lightweight design with powerful operation makes this product one of the finest reels you will find on the market.

Product Specs

Material:

C40 carbon skeletal speed rotor with stainless steel bail wire

Weight:

0.75 lbs

Hand Orientation:

Left Hand

Bearing Type and Material:

6+1 aluminum

Gear Ratio:

6.2:1

Maximum Drag:

10 lbs

What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?

The market is overflowing with some remarkable models. However, not all of them are suitable for your needs. It is, therefore, important to consider a few factors before picking any model. This way, you will end up having the right product, plus you won't regret it in the future.

Drag

One of the major factors to take into consideration is drag ability. The casting is totally determined by this factor, therefore, make sure to go for a model that allows maximum drag for dependable and consistent performance.

Ball Bearings

The rule is quite simple here. The greater the number of ball bearings, the smoother the operation will be. The number of ball bearings greatly determines the seamlessness of casting. Moreover, it is important to choose non-corrosive ball bearings for reliability.

Weight

Weight is a significant factor when it comes to fishing, especially if you do it often. It is recommended to pick a compact and lightweight model that can easily fit your backpack and can be taken along whenever you want.

Frame

The quality of a model is very crucial, and therefore, it is advised to always opt for a model with a robust frame. Make sure it is made from high-end materials to endure harsh conditions like a pro. Moreover, keep in mind that the frame material must not add extra weight to the model.

Cost

Inshore spinning reels come in a range of prices, depending on the features and construction. You must decide your budget first and then try to look for a reliable model with all the essential features to make a worthy purchase.

How to Assemble an Inshore Spinning Reel

Assembling an inshore spinning reel might be a dreaded task for beginners. However, it is not too difficult. This section will help you install the reel in just a few simple steps.

Let’s get started!

  1. First of all, get all the accessories required for the assembly. 

  2. Put the sections of the rod together in the proper orientation. Always keep it clean to extend the lifespan.

  3. The next step includes the attachment of the reel to the rod. Put the foot of the reel in the reel seat and secure it properly. Do this by screwing the hood up or down. 

  4. Finally, attach the hook or practice plug in order to finish the installation process.

Tips

It is advised to remember a few things for improved operation.

  • Make sure to pick a lightweight rod for easy handling and maximum drag.
  • It is essential to go through the guide. This is a common mistake made by beginners. Make sure to double-check the guide at each step.

For a full overview of what was just described, you are recommended to refer to the video below.

Conclusion

A dependable inshore spinning reel is a good combination of performance, quality, and affordability. Before making any purchase, make sure to keep a few considerations in your minds for a valued purchase. With this, we conclude the review of the best inshore spinning reels. Hopefully, this article has helped you enough in making an informed decision.

People Also Ask

Any fishing enthusiast would know the importance of a great reel. There are certain queries about the inshore spinning reels. In this section, we have tried to answer some of the frequently asked questions by users, as well as, new customers. This can help them make a memorable fishing experience.

Can You Use Any Reel in Saltwater?

Honestly, a freshwater reel can be used in any water for multiple fishing applications. However, it is not recommended to use such a rod in saltwater as this could really damage the product. Make sure to use a reel made from non-corrosive materials and equipped with sealed bearings in order to endure the harsh conditions of saltwater.

Do Spinnerbaits Work in Saltwater?

Yes, spinnerbaits prove to be very effective in saltwater conditions. They can be used in cold water and even windy situations. You can use them across shallow flats or even in columns, canals, and creeks. Different manufacturers produce multiple spinnerbaits of high-quality to choose from according to your needs.



My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.