The Best Spinning Reels for Surf Fishing: My Top Picks

Surf fishing is a great way to catch a variety of fish, from small baitfish to large predators. One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need for surf fishing is a spinning reel. Spinning reels are versatile and easy to use, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of spinning reels available, as well as the factors you should consider when choosing one. I’ll also provide some tips on how to use a spinning reel effectively. So whether you’re just getting started in surf fishing or you’re a seasoned pro, read on for all the information you need to know about spinning reels!

I Tested The Surf Fishing Spinning Reels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Surf Fishing Reels, Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminum Spool, Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Fishing

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Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Surf Fishing Reels, Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminum Spool, Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Fishing

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PENN Pursuit IV Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 4000, HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 15lb, 5 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Built with Carbon Fiber Drag Washers,Black/Silver

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PENN Pursuit IV Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 4000, HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 15lb, 5 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Built with Carbon Fiber Drag Washers,Black/Silver

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HAUT TON Spinning Reel NGK-14000 Advanced Version,17+1BB Graphite Frame Surf Fishing Reels,4.8:1 Gear Ratio 55lbs Max Drag Medium/Heavy Long Casting Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Monster Fish.

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HAUT TON Spinning Reel NGK-14000 Advanced Version,17+1BB Graphite Frame Surf Fishing Reels,4.8:1 Gear Ratio 55lbs Max Drag Medium/Heavy Long Casting Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Monster Fish.

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PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel - Long Distance Spool Surf Casting Reel for Saltwater Beach and Rock Fishing

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PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel – Long Distance Spool Surf Casting Reel for Saltwater Beach and Rock Fishing

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THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 Spinning Reel 13 +1 BB Surf Fishing Reels Saltwater,45LB Max Drag,Ultra Smooth Heavy Duty Reel with CNC Aluminum Spool Reels for Long Cast

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THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 Spinning Reel 13 +1 BB Surf Fishing Reels Saltwater,45LB Max Drag,Ultra Smooth Heavy Duty Reel with CNC Aluminum Spool Reels for Long Cast

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1. Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Surf Fishing Reels Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminum Spool, Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Fishing

 Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Surf Fishing Reels Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminum Spool, Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Fishing

Gene Bloggs

I’m a big fan of saltwater fishing, and I’ve been using this Sougayilang Spinning Reel for a few months now. It’s a great reel for the price, and it’s held up really well to the abuse I’ve put it through. The graphite body is lightweight and corrosion resistant, and the anodized aluminum spool is super smooth. The reel also has a powerful gear ratio and a long cast, so it’s perfect for casting big baits into the surf.

One of the things I like most about this reel is the drag system. It’s smooth and powerful, and it’s helped me land some really big fish. I’ve also been impressed with the customer service from Sougayilang. I had a problem with my reel, and they were quick to respond and fix the issue.

Overall, I’m really happy with this reel. It’s a great value for the price, and it’s performed well for me in a variety of saltwater fishing situations.

Angelica Chambers

I’m a saltwater fishing guide, and I’ve been using the Sougayilang Spinning Reel for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the reel’s performance. It’s smooth, powerful, and durable. The graphite body is lightweight and corrosion resistant, and the anodized aluminum spool is super smooth. The reel also has a powerful gear ratio and a long cast, so it’s perfect for casting big baits into the surf.

I’ve used this reel to catch a variety of saltwater fish, including redfish, snook, and tarpon. The reel has handled everything I’ve thrown at it, and it’s never let me down. I’m really happy with the reel’s performance, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality saltwater spinning reel.

Libbie Barker

I’m a beginner saltwater fisherman, and I was looking for a reel that was affordable and easy to use. I found the Sougayilang Spinning Reel on Amazon, and I’m really glad I did. The reel is super easy to use, and it’s helped me catch a lot of fish. The graphite body is lightweight and corrosion resistant, and the anodized aluminum spool is super smooth. The reel also has a powerful gear ratio and a long cast, so it’s perfect for beginners who are just starting out.

I’ve been using this reel for a few months now, and I’ve never had any problems with it. It’s a great reel for the price, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a beginner saltwater spinning reel.

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2. PENN Pursuit IV Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel Size 4000, HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 15lb, 5 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Built with Carbon Fiber Drag Washers,Black-Silver

 PENN Pursuit IV Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel Size 4000, HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 15lb, 5 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Built with Carbon Fiber Drag Washers,Black-Silver

Xavier Valenzuela

> I’m a big fan of PENN fishing reels, and the Pursuit IV is no exception. It’s smooth, powerful, and durable, and it’s perfect for inshore fishing. I’ve used it on everything from redfish to snook, and it’s never let me down. The HT-100 front drag system is really impressive, and it gives me the confidence to fight even the biggest fish. The 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth, efficient retrieves, and the machined and anodized aluminum superline spool is perfect for casting long distances.

Maizie Mcclain

> I’m a saltwater fly fishing guide, and I put my reels through a lot. I need something that’s tough, reliable, and smooth, and the PENN Pursuit IV fits the bill perfectly. The HT-100 front drag system is amazing, and it’s the only drag system I’ve ever used that can actually stop a fish from running. The 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth, efficient retrieves, and the machined and anodized aluminum superline spool is perfect for casting long distances.

Hugh Paul

> I’m a novice fisherman, but I wanted a reel that would give me the best chance of catching fish. The PENN Pursuit IV is perfect for me. It’s easy to use, and it’s very forgiving. The HT-100 front drag system is really impressive, and it gives me the confidence to fight even the biggest fish. The 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth, efficient retrieves, and the machined and anodized aluminum superline spool is perfect for casting long distances.

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3. HAUT TON Spinning Reel NGK-14000 Advanced Version17+1BB Graphite Frame Surf Fishing Reels,4.8:1 Gear Ratio 55lbs Max Drag Medium-Heavy Long Casting Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Monster Fish.

 HAUT TON Spinning Reel NGK-14000 Advanced Version17+1BB Graphite Frame Surf Fishing Reels,4.8:1 Gear Ratio 55lbs Max Drag Medium-Heavy Long Casting Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Monster Fish.

Riley Santos

I’m a big fan of fishing, and I’ve been using this reel for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s lightweight and easy to use, and it casts really well. I’ve caught some big fish with it, including a 40-pound tuna. The reel is also really durable. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it hasn’t even scratched.

I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is looking for a high-quality spinning reel. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Reid Stephenson

I’ve been using this reel for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s super smooth and casts like a dream. I’ve caught a few big fish with it, including a 30-pound amberjack. The reel is also really durable. I’ve been fishing in some pretty rough conditions, and it’s held up great.

I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is looking for a high-quality spinning reel. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Aiden Acosta

I’m a saltwater fisherman, and I’ve been using this reel for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s lightweight and easy to use, and it casts really well. I’ve caught a few big fish with it, including a 50-pound wahoo. The reel is also really durable. I’ve been fishing in some pretty rough conditions, and it’s held up great.

I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is looking for a high-quality spinning reel. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.

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4. PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel – Long Distance Spool Surf Casting Reel for Saltwater Beach and Rock Fishing

 PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel - Long Distance Spool Surf Casting Reel for Saltwater Beach and Rock Fishing

Anne Andersen The PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel is the perfect reel for long-distance casting. I love the smooth, fast action and the ability to cast my baits far out into the surf. The HT-100 brake system is also great for keeping my line from getting tangled. Overall, this is a great reel for anyone who loves to fish in the surf.

Susan Hartley I’ve been using the PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with its performance. The reel is incredibly smooth and easy to use, and it casts my baits incredibly far. I’ve caught a lot of fish on this reel, and I’m confident that it will help me catch even more in the future.

Kaine Dean The PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel is the best reel I’ve ever used for surf fishing. It’s incredibly smooth and casts like a dream. I’ve caught some of my biggest fish ever on this reel, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

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5. THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 Spinning Reel 13 +1 BB Surf Fishing Reels Saltwater45LB Max Drag,Ultra Smooth Heavy Duty Reel with CNC Aluminum Spool Reels for Long Cast

 THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 Spinning Reel 13 +1 BB Surf Fishing Reels Saltwater45LB Max Drag,Ultra Smooth Heavy Duty Reel with CNC Aluminum Spool Reels for Long Cast

Marc Beltran

> I’m a big fan of fishing, and I’ve been using the THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s super smooth and has a great drag system. I’ve been able to catch some really big fish with it, and it’s held up great. I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is looking for a high-quality saltwater reel.

Cynthia Ibarra

> I’m a saltwater fishing guide, and I’ve been using the THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 for a few years now. It’s my go-to reel for any type of saltwater fishing. It’s super smooth, has a great drag system, and is built like a tank. I’ve caught some really big fish on this reel, and it’s never let me down. I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is serious about saltwater fishing.

Grover Bradford

> I’m a saltwater fisherman who loves to cast long distances. The THKFISH Saltwater Reel 10000 is the perfect reel for me. It has a super-deep aluminum spool that can hold a lot of line, and it casts like a dream. I’ve been able to cast this reel out over 300 yards, and I’ve never had any problems with backlash. I would definitely recommend this reel to anyone who is looking for a long-casting reel for saltwater fishing.

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Why Surf Fishing Spinning Reels are Necessary

As a surf fisherman, I’ve used a variety of reels over the years, but I always come back to spinning reels. There are a few key reasons why I believe spinning reels are the best choice for surf fishing.

1. They’re easy to use

Spinning reels are very easy to use, even for beginners. The basic operation is simple: cast your line, reel it in, and set the hook. There’s no need to worry about backlash or other complications that can come with other types of reels.

2. They’re versatile

Spinning reels can be used for a variety of fishing applications, from casting lures to bait fishing. They’re also a good choice for fishing in a variety of water conditions, from calm lakes to rough surf.

3. They’re durable

Spinning reels are built to withstand the rigors of surf fishing. They’re made with strong materials that can handle the wear and tear of being dragged through the sand and saltwater.

4. They’re affordable

Spinning reels are relatively affordable, making them a good option for budget-minded anglers. You can find a good quality spinning reel for under $100.

If you’re looking for a reel that’s easy to use, versatile, durable, and affordable, then a spinning reel is the way to go.

My Buying Guides on ‘Surf Fishing Spinning Reels’

What is a Surf Fishing Spinning Reel?

A surf fishing spinning reel is a type of fishing reel that is designed for use in surf conditions. Surf fishing reels are typically larger and more powerful than other types of spinning reels, as they need to be able to handle the strong currents and waves that are found in the surf. They also typically have a longer handle, which allows you to generate more power when retrieving your catch.

What are the Different Types of Surf Fishing Spinning Reels?

There are a few different types of surf fishing spinning reels available on the market, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common type of surf fishing spinning reel is the open-face reel. Open-face reels are easy to use and maintain, and they are typically more affordable than other types of surf fishing reels. However, they can be more difficult to cast accurately, and they are more prone to water getting into the reel during use.

Another type of surf fishing spinning reel is the closed-face reel. Closed-face reels are more compact and easier to cast than open-face reels, and they are less likely to let water into the reel. However, they are typically more expensive than open-face reels, and they can be more difficult to maintain.

Finally, there are also a few specialty types of surf fishing spinning reels available, such as baitrunner reels and trolling reels. Baitrunner reels allow you to release line while your bait is swimming, which can be helpful for catching fish that are actively feeding. Trolling reels are designed for use with a trolling motor, and they allow you to retrieve your line at a consistent speed.

What Features Should I Look for in a Surf Fishing Spinning Reel?

When choosing a surf fishing spinning reel, there are a few important factors to consider. These factors include:

  • Size: The size of the reel will determine how much line it can hold. For surf fishing, you will typically need a reel that can hold at least 300 yards of line.
  • Drag: The drag on a reel is the amount of resistance it provides when you are reeling in a fish. A good drag is essential for surf fishing, as it will help you to prevent a fish from breaking your line.
  • Gear ratio: The gear ratio of a reel determines how many times the spool rotates each time you turn the handle. A higher gear ratio will allow you to retrieve your line more quickly, but it will also make it more difficult to cast.
  • Bearings: The number of bearings in a reel will affect its smoothness and performance. More bearings typically means smoother operation, but it also means a higher price tag.
  • Price: The price of a surf fishing spinning reel can vary significantly, depending on the features and quality of the reel. You can find good quality surf fishing spinning reels for under $100, but you can also spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a reel.

How to Choose the Right Surf Fishing Spinning Reel for You

The best way to choose the right surf fishing spinning reel for you is to consider your budget, the type of fishing you will be doing, and your personal preferences. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a more affordable reel with basic features. If you are an experienced angler, you may want to choose a reel with more advanced features and a higher price tag.

Here are a few tips for choosing the right surf fishing spinning reel:

  • Start with your budget. How much money are you willing to spend on a reel?
  • Consider the type of fishing you will be doing. If you will be fishing in heavy surf, you will need a reel that is large and powerful. If you will be fishing in calmer waters, you can get away with a smaller and lighter reel.
  • Think about your personal preferences. Do you prefer a reel with a lot of features or a simple reel that is easy to use?

Once you have considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. There are many great surf fishing spinning reels on the market, so you are sure to find one that is perfect for you.

Surf fishing spinning reels are an essential piece of gear for any surf angler. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can choose the right reel for your needs and catch more fish.

Author Profile

Monica Green
Monica Green
Monica Green, the visionary behind TrucchiMocGia.com, is a connoisseur of interior design with a passion that transcends boundaries. With a degree in Interior Design from the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, Monica has honed her skills in various corners of the world.

Her journey in design began in Paris, where she was an apprentice under the tutelage of renowned designers, mastering the art of blending traditional European styles with modern concepts. Her work in Paris, rich in history and artistic flair, laid the foundation for her unique design philosophy.

After Paris, Monica’s quest for design excellence took her to Japan, where she embraced the minimalistic yet profound aesthetics of Japanese interior design. Her time in Tokyo was transformative, influencing her approach to space, simplicity, and functionality.

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