When you’ve got a budget in mind, and you know you want the very best spinning reel that money can buy, you need to know what your options are.
Trust be told, there is no single best spinning reel as there are so many options available on the market, it’s simply not a once size fits all product.
So what we’ve done is reviewed all of the top rated reels in the sub $100 range, and brought your the best of the best in a side-by-side comparison so you can choose the one that’s best for you.
What to look for in a Spinning Reel
Before we dive into the Top 5 Spinning Reels under $100, let us take a look at what features you should be on the lookout for before deciding which one suits you.
Max Drag
Simply put, the max drag a reel offers, the larger the fish you can go after. Think of it this way. Say you had a heavy weight tied to the end of your line and you tried to reel it in – the amount of force that would create on the reel washers and gears would be immense.
So the larger the fish you want to fish for, the higher the max drag needs to be.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of a reel can be broken down into 3 parts. Let’s take a look at an example:
5.2:1
- The first number indicates how many rotations the spool will make for each turn of the crank handle.
- The second number after the colon is the alternate ratio, so in our example, we get 5.2 turns of the spool to one (1) turn of the handle.
Quality Materials
All of the reels reviewed here today are machine built ultra-strong aluminum. Now you can get carbon and graphite rods but you’d be hard pressed to find one under $100, let alone one that will stand up the job.
So a quality material is a must and we think Aluminium offers the best option when it comes to weight and durability. Don’t forget, you may be carrying this reel for some distance to get to your final fishing spot – so keeping it light can help a great deal.
Best Spinning Reel Under 100 Reviewed
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: The Lew's Crappie Thunder Size 100 Spinning Fishing Reel is precision engineered with a premium graphite body, spool, and skeletal rotor to give anglers the toughness and...
- EFFORTLESS FISHING: This spinning reel features a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and comes ready to fish out of the package with 6lb monofilament fishing line by Mr. Crappie
- EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE: The Crappie Thunder spinning reel features a lightweight skeletal rotor, 5.1:1 gear ratio and a 22" RPT (recovery per turn) for a smooth and consistent retrieve
- SUPERIOR VERSATILITY: With a mono capacity of 120/6 yds/lbs, Mr. Crappie is the name trusted for putting anglers on giant slabs, and the Crappie Thunder line-up is designed for out-casting,...
- ROCK SOLID RELIABILITY: Crappie anglers who hit the water with Crappie Thunder will fish with the confidence that their reel is backed by a one-year warranty and supported by the dedicated Customer...
- 【Ultra Smooth】Our spinning fishing reel comes with 12 quality stainless steel ball bearings and an instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing. Anti Reverse Switch works great to ensure the...
- 【High Line Speed】Excellent line laying oscillation system, the line speed ratio is 5.2:1 and the maximum fishing power up to 11 lb, 1000 series reels is for freshwater fishing and ice fishing
- 【Light Weight】The rotating wire shell is designed with hollow and reducing weight, the spinning reel is light to 5 oz, yet very strong, makes the line easier to release and cast farther
- 【Ergonomic Design】Durable wooden grip is non-slip and comfortable, the handle is foldable and easy for storage. left and right rocker arm can be freely exchanged, simple operation
- 【High Powered】Firm and stable holder is used for fixing fishing rod, can bear heavy impact, not easy deformation and damage; big drag adjustment button is easily and effectively control the...
- PREMIUM FISHABILITY: Engineered with the light tackle angler in mind, Lew’s Laser Lite spinning reel is the best choice whenever fishing for panfish, trout, and bass in small lakes, ponds, or...
- SMOOTH AND DURABLE: Experience smooth and strong casting and retrieving thanks to a lightweight one-piece graphite frame and sideplate, and a premium 7-bearing system with a Zero Reverse one-way...
- ALL DAY PERFORMANCE: The spinning reel is engineered for the versatile angler with a 5.1:1 gear ratio and 23.5-inches of line recovery per turn. Its oiled felt multi-disc drag system provides...
- BUILT FOR SUCCESS: With a capacity of 160-yards of 6-pound-test fluorocarbon or 200-yards of 8-pound-test braid fishing line, this top-rated reel is the best choice for light tackle anglers pursuing...
- ROCK SOLID RELIABILITY: Anglers who hit the water with Lew’s Laser Lite spinning reel fish with the confidence that their gear is backed by a one-year limited warranty and supported by the dedicated...
- 8 Bearing System with stainless steel double shielded ball bearings
- Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing
- Speed Lube for exceptional smoothness and performance in all weather conditions
- PREMIUM TECHNOLOGY: The Lew's Wally Marshall Signature Series spinning reel packs essential technologies into a 100-size reel that is perfect for every crappie, perch, and bluegill adventure. Its...
- SMOOTH AND DURABLE: Experience smooth reeling and positive hooksets thanks to a 5+1 ball bearing system with a Continuous Anti-Reverse clutch. An interchangeable right- or left-hand retrieve system...
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE: Engineered for crappie fishing versatility, this reel has a 5.1:1 gear ratio and 23.5-inches of line recovery per turn. A smooth and durable gear system delivers exceptional...
- BUILT FOR SUCCESS: With a capacity of 160-yards of 6-pound-test monofilament or 200-yards of 8-pound-test braided fishing line, this reel is a top-rated choice for crappie anglers casting small jigs...
- ROCK SOLID RELIABILITY: Anglers who hit the water with the Lew's Wally Marshall Signature Series spinning reel fish with the confidence that their gear is backed by a one-year limited warranty and...
Now Grab Your Rod and Reel and Get Fishing
Spending less than $100 on a spinning reel is a wise investment for several reasons. Firstly, for a beginner or casual angler, an entry-level spinning reel can offer reliable performance without breaking the bank. They are designed to handle basic fishing techniques and can easily be used for a variety of species, making them a versatile choice. Secondly, these reels are often made with durable materials that are designed to withstand regular use, ensuring they will last for many fishing trips to come. Thirdly, they typically come with basic features like an anti-reverse system, adjustable drag, and line capacity, which are essential for a successful fishing trip. Finally, by investing in a spinning reel that is budget-friendly, you can focus on other important gear, such as a rod or tackle, to enhance your overall fishing experience. In conclusion, spending less than $100 on a spinning reel can be a smart choice for anyone looking to get started with fishing or for those who want a reliable and budget-friendly option.
