10 Best Saltwater Spinning Reels for the Money 2024

Looking for the best saltwater spinning reel for the money? This guide will help you find the perfect reel for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

We’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you make the best choice for your budget.

The spinning reel is one of the most popular types of fishing reels on the market. Since these reels are attached to the bottom of the rod, the angler benefits from better casting control.

It also has a relatively impressive weight capacity, so it is a favorite for large-game fishing.

All these characteristics show that spinning reels make great inshore and offshore saltwater fishing companions.

Unfortunately, the exposed design on these reels makes the components susceptible to corrosion and breaking down. That is why we wrote this article.

Here, we reviewed 10 of the best saltwater spinning reels for the money on the market. If you’re into saltwater fishing, then this article is here to help you out.

Top 10 Best Saltwater Spinning Reels For The Money

Here is a quick list of the top 10 Best saltwater spinning reels for 2024:

S.N.	Product Name	Score	Price
01	Shimano Baitrunner D	97/100	Check Price Now
02	Daiwa BG8000	96/100	Check Price Now
03	Penn Spinfisher VI	95/100	Check Price Now
04	Penn Slammer III	92/100	Check Price Now
05	Daiwa BG2500 BG	89/100	Check Price Now
06	Penn Battle III	85/100	Check Price Now
07	Dr. Fish Saltwater 12000	85/100	Check Price Now
08	RUNCL Titan II	82/100	Check Price Now
09	SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater	79/100	Check Price Now
10	KastKing Sharky III	77/100	Check Price Now

Also, read the best bottom fishing reel with double speed.

#1 Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel

Shimano is one of the best reel brands in the market. Known for their superior engineering and design, we had high hopes for the Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel.

And after giving it a try, we must admit that we were quite impressed.

Dyna-Balance Technology is the feature we love most about this spinning reel. This feature keeps the line moving in a straight line during retrieval.

The reduced shaking makes pulling less stressful on the line, so you can turn the handles faster. As a result, you get bragging rights for your unmatched smooth retrieval.

The Shimano Baitrunner D also comes with a comprehensive drag system. This system operates even when the bail is disengaged, and this promotes tangle-free spooling.

This also helps the bait look more natural, which increases the chances of a bite.

Speaking of drag, this spinning reel has a maximum drag of 15 pounds.

While this may not seem too heavy, this is a decent capacity for inshore saltwater swimming. And this is especially true if you are a beginner.

For our convenience, the Baitrunner D has ergonomic grips. These grips make handling the line more comfortable for your hands. With this fishing reel, cramping and hand discomfort is a thing of the past.

All things considered, it’s easy to see why the Baitrunner D is one of the best saltwater spinning reels on the market today.

#2 Daiwa BG8000 Spinning Reel

Another top contender for the best saltwater spinning reels is the Daiwa BG. Since it comes from a big name in the industry, we were so excited to give this reel a try.

And fortunately for us, the Daiwa BG did not disappoint.

This spinning reel is built with an anodized machined aluminum material that houses all its components perfectly.

Aluminum is known to be less prone to corrosion, so you know that it’s perfectly safe for use in saltwater environments.

Aside from the body, the spool is also made from Dynamic-Cut Aluminum ABS. This guarantees that the spool won’t easily become brittle even after exposure to salty water.

Another notable feature of the Daiwa BG is its waterproof drag system. This feature keeps the water away from the drag system, so you know all its internal components won’t be slowing any time soon.

As a result, you enjoy a consistent performance from this spinning reel.

Thus, there is no doubt that the Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is specially designed for saltwater fishing.

#3 Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Fishing Reel

Another top competition for the best saltwater spinning reel is the Penn Spinfisher VI Reel. At first glance, we thought the Spinfisher VI was just another stylish fishing reel.

But as we explored all of its features, we began to see why anglers find it all the rage.

Thanks to its carbon fiber construction, the Spinfisher VI is truly made for use in saltwater environments.

Carbon fiber is not prone to corrosion, so even prolonged exposure to saltwater won’t cause it to corrode and become brittle.

Also, this material is quite durable, so you know that it is meant for long-term use.

Another notable feature of the Penn Spinfisher VI is its IPX5 rating. An IPX5 water-resistance rating means that the unit can withstand occasional splashes of water.

The body and the spool have a sealed design that keeps the moisture away. Thus, you don’t have to worry about water getting into the bearings.

The Spinfisher VI is a result of a long engineering process. That is why it allows the angler to retrieve the line smoothly, even with a large catch at the other end.

And that is not an easy feat for spinning reels.

This fishing reel also has an ambidextrous design that allows you to handle the line using either of your hands.

With that said Penn Spinfisher VI proves that it truly is meant for everyone to use.

#4 Penn Slammer III Spinning Fishing Reel

For more serious anglers, the Penn Slammer III Spinning Reel is perfect for you. With its sturdy construction and superior performance, this unit is certainly worth the money.

We weren’t lying when we said that this spinning reel comes with sturdy construction. It has a full-metal body coupled with a stainless steel bearing system.

This material is known for its unmatched durability, so you know that it is built to last for years.

The Penn Slammer III also has an IP6-rated sealed body. Even if you accidentally drop the reel in water, it won’t easily corrode or fall apart.

Speaking of a sealed body, the Slammer III comes with the brand’s notable Sealed Slammer Drag System.

Dura-Drag material is incorporated into this system to keep the water away from the gearbox.

That allows the reel to perform efficiently and constantly to help you land more fish.

While all of this may seem too complicated, you will be amazed by how easy it is to operate.

#5 Daiwa BG2500 BG Saltwater Spinning Reel

The Daiwa BG2500 BG is the lightweight version of the BG8000.

This spinning reel similarly has an anodized aluminum housing that offers decent corrosion resistance.

This is coupled with the waterproof drag system that keeps the water away from all the important reel components.

But the Daiwa BG2500 is not just about water and corrosion resistance. This unit is built with the brand’s oversized Digigear System.

The larger gears help produce more torque, and this helps us catch larger fish with less effort.

Most importantly, the BG2500 is built with the popular Air Rotor. This type of rotor weighs less than ordinary rotors, and this helps you gain more control over the rod.

So if you want to improve your casting accuracy, then Daiwa BG2500 BG is the best for you.

#6 Penn Battle III Spinning Fishing Reel

Penn proves to be one of the best manufacturers of saltwater-friendly spinning reels with its third entry on this list: the Penn Battle III.

Like most Penn reels, the Battle III comes with a full-metal body coupled with a durable aluminum bail wire. This combination guarantees unmatched durability that puts others to shame.

The Penn Battle III also has the HT 100 Carbon Fiber Drag System that guarantees a smooth yet powerful retrieval.

And since it is made of carbon fiber, you don’t have to worry about corroded gears.

This high-range spinning reel also has an impressive capacity, which allows you to tackle large fish species.

But above all, we love how the Penn Battle III has an unassuming interface. Despite its impressive features, it remains to be one of the easiest spinning reels we’ve used.

Overall, we believe the Penn Battle III stays true to its name. With these features, there is no doubt that this spinning reel is always ready for battle.

#7 Dr. Fish Saltwater 12000 Spinning Reel

If power and unmatched drag are what you are after, then the Dr.Fish Saltwater 12000 is your ideal spinning reel.

Above others, the Dr.Fish 12000 is known for its superior 48-pound maximum drag. If you love fishing for the big game, then this monster of a reel will be your best friend.

The body is made from a variety of materials that include aluminum, stainless steel, and graphite.

All of these sturdy materials make it possible for the Saltwater 12000 to work fearlessly with large and aggressive saltwater fish.

These materials are also less likely to corrode, so you know that they won’t fall apart while you are in the middle of your adventure.

Aside from its durable body, this spinning reel also has rust-resistant ball bearings and a waterproof side plate and rotor.

This keeps all its components in the best shape to ensure the best performance whether you are casting or retrieving the fishing line.

Since Dr.Fish 12000 is specially designed for big game fishing, you would need a spool that can handle heavier lines.

Thankfully, it comes with a large aluminum spool that moves smoothly and reliably.

Overall, there is no doubt that the Dr.Fish Saltwater 12000 deserves to be recognized as one of the best offshore saltwater spinning reels for the money.

#8 RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II

Another affordable saltwater-friendly fishing reel is the RUNCL Titan II. Considering all the features it offers, it is hard to imagine how inexpensive this unit is.

One of the reasons why we are sure that Titan II is made for saltwater fishing is that it has been specifically tested for that purpose.

This unit has been exposed to a 168-hour salt mist test to ensure that it won’t easily corrode or rust despite the prolonged exposure to saltwater.

This spinning reel is made of a variety of materials that are both wear and corrosion-resistant. And to top it off, it is also covered in phosphating coating to ensure its longevity.

Also, the RUNCL Titan II has a superior Entire Shield System that keeps water and harmful debris out of the body, spool, and rotor.

This feature guarantees that these components will continue to work harmoniously to deliver the best performance.

But most importantly, we love how the Titan II feels on the rod once it is mounted. This paves the way for accurate line casting. And that makes it an ideal entry-level spinning reel.

#9 SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel

If you are looking for an affordable yet reliable fishing reel, then look no further than the SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel.

This spinning reel is made of a sturdy metal body that’s coated with a corrosion-resistant finish. Each unit has been exposed to saltwater for 72 hours, so you know that the coating works.

Also, the SeaKnight Rapid has a unique asymmetrical rotor design which is believed to make it feel more lightweight and easier to control.

And true enough, casting the line felt easier, especially since the rod feels more balanced.

We must also mention that its drag system is made from carbon fiber. This material is not prone to corrosion, so exposure to saltwater won’t affect its performance.

As long as the game fish falls within the drag capacity, you can expect the smoothest retrieval with this reel.

You don’t have to worry about line entanglement, either. The SeaKnight Rapid has a sophisticated oscillation system that arranges the line uniformly for the best results.

Even if you have to cast it at notable distances, you don’t have to worry about it developing any tangles.

#10 KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel

Completing our list of the best saltwater fishing reels with the KastKing Sharky III. And out of all the items on this list, we believe the Sharky III offers the best value for the money.

This stylish saltwater fishing reel has an eye-catching design with its red and black color scheme.

But aside from its impressive aesthetics, the Sharky III also comes with superior features that seem to be at par with more expensive models.

This lightweight reel is made of fiber-reinforced graphite. But despite this lightweight design, it still packs a punch and can tackle up to 39.5 pounds of drag.

For an affordable spinning reel, this is quite an impressive feat.

Aside from the body, the rotor and spool are also specially designed as water-resistant. This guarantees that you can use it for a variety of fishing activities, whether in saltwater or freshwater environments.

The EVA grips on the KastKing Sharky III help give anglers a comfortable and solid grip on the handle.

It is also textured, so you don’t have to worry about slipping, either.

Thus, for its versatility and affordability, there is no doubt that the Sharky III deserves all the recognition it receives.

Buying Guides: Things To Consider Before Buying a Saltwater Spinning Reel

We already helped you narrow down your choices to ten. But if you need further information to pick the very best one, then you have to consider the following factors before you buy.

Corrosion Resistance

Saltwater is known for being highly corrosive. And since we are talking about the best saltwater spinning reels, they must be corrosion-resistant.

In general, metal fishing reels are prone to corrosion. Luckily, aluminum is an exception. This material is not easily susceptible to corrosion, making it a safe alternative for saltwater fishing.

However, aluminum-made spinning reels can be quite expensive. A budget-friendly alternative is to look for spinning reels with corrosion-resistant coating.

This will be able to last for a few years, and you simply have to reapply it from time to time.

Water Resistance

Aside from corrosion resistance, it also helps if the spinning reel has a decent amount of water resistance.

Regardless of where you plan to fish, there is no denying that the reel will be exposed to a certain degree of moisture. This is especially true after you are done reeling in the line that was submerged underwater.

As a result, exposure to high moisture levels can affect how the gears and bearings function.

To prevent this from happening, check if the spinning reel also comes with decent water resistance. If the components are waterproof, that would be much better.

Drag System

Another factor you have to consider before buying an inshore and offshore saltwater spinning reel is the drag system.

The drag system is responsible for keeping the fishing line in one piece. Despite the fish’s struggle to break free, this feature will try to extend the line with every pull to keep it from breaking.

Nevertheless, it still allows for a smooth retrieval without harming your catch and the line.

Not all spinning reels have these drag systems, so it would be to your advantage if the one you buy has one. This feature will surely make your fishing trip more memorable. 

Capacity

Most beginners tend to overlook the capacity of the reel. And that is such a big mistake.

Always remember that this reel will be used for saltwater fishing. Fish at this depth are not always small, but they can also be surprisingly heavy.

As much as possible, go for the spinning reel that has a weight capacity that is a little over the average weight of your ideal catch.

If you catch fish that is over the reel’s capacity, there is a big chance that it would break as you pull in your catch. Not only will that cost you the fish, but that will make you realize how much of an expensive mistake that is.

Durability

And finally, you should factor in the durability of the spinning reel. As much as possible, buy a reel that is made of stable and sturdy materials.

You want to buy a reel that can withstand all the push-and-pull involved in catching fish. With that in mind, it should be something that won’t easily break under pressure.

Aluminum, carbon fiber, and graphite are materials that you might want to consider.

Gears

Gears are important in any spinning reel, but they’re especially important in a saltwater reel. Look for a reel with high-quality gears that are resistant to saltwater corrosion.

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings help your reel run smoothly. Look for a reel with high-quality ball bearings that are resistant to saltwater corrosion.

Line Capacity

When saltwater fishing, you’ll often be using heavier lines. Make sure your reel has enough line capacity to handle the type of fishing you’ll be doing.

Price

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price when choosing a saltwater spinning reel. There are a wide variety of options available, so you should be able to find a reel that fits your budget.

FAQs: People Also Asked

Conclusion

While spinning reels have exposed components, not all models are susceptible to corrosion.

If you know where to look, you might be able to find saltwater-friendly fishing reels that will take your fishing trips to a whole new level.

Lucky for you, this article already cuts your search time by a quarter. We have tried and tested the spinning reels listed above, so you are assured of their durability, performance, and quality.

We guarantee that we’ve only listed the best saltwater spinning reels for the money in the industry.

Whether you are looking for an investment or an affordable entry-level spinning reel, you will find this list replete with options.

After all, we all long for the same objective: to make the most of our fishing trip.