Inshore spinning reels are designed for use in saltwater environments close to shore. They are typically smaller and lighter than offshore spinning reels, making them easier to handle. Inshore spinning reels can handle both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
There are a lot of great inshore spinning reels on the market, but which ones are the best? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best inshore spinning reels on the market, and see what makes them so great.
Top 7 Inshore Spinning Reels (Comparison)
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Budget Choice  |
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Medium Heavy Inshore Reel  |
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All Around / For Inshore and Offshore  |
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Premium Inshore  |
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Saltwater Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel  |
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Lightweight Inshore Spinning Reel  |
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Excellent Inshore Combo  |
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1. Lew’s Custom Inshore Speed – Best Budget Choice
Specifications
- Material : Aluminum
- Max Drag : 24lb
- Weight : 10.2oz
- Gear Ratio : 6.2:1
- Ball Bearing : 6+1
If you are looking for a budget-friendly spinning reel for inshore fishing, Lews Custom Inshore reel is an ideal choice. This reel provides anglers with the power and performance they need to land big fish, without breaking the bank. Featuring durable construction and a smooth drag system, the Lew’s Custom Inshore Speed Spin Spinning Reel is a great choice for any angler looking to get the most out of their inshore fishing experience.
The Lew’s Custom Inshore Speed Spin is a versatile and tough reel that is built to handle inshore fishing conditions. Its aluminum frame and premium stainless steel bearings provide strength and durability, while its precision-cut Speed Gears with passivation treatment offer corrosion resistance and a superior drag. Additionally, it’s flush and drains port allows you to quickly drain water from the reel if it becomes submerged, and its strong sealed carbon fiber drag system can generate up to 24lbs of max drag.
Key Features
- Made for inshore fishing situations
- Aluminum frame
- Premium stainless steel bearings
- Precision cut Speed Gears
- Flush and drain port
- Double anodized knurled machined aluminum spool
- High strength Speed Gears
2. Daiwa BG – Medium Heavy Inshore Reel
Specifications
- Material : Synthetic
- Max Drag : 17.6lb
- Weight : 14.3oz
- Gear Ratio : 5.7:1
- Ball Bearing : 6+1
The Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is a great choice for those looking for a quality reel for inshore fishing. It features robust construction that can handle the rigors of saltwater fishing, while still providing smooth and responsive performance. The reel also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a drag system that can be easily adjusted on the fly and a line counter that helps keep track of your progress.
The BG series of saltwater reels are designed for heavy big game fishing. With a strong black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing and a solid screw-in handle, this reel is extremely rigid and can handle the big fish. The BG reel also features an all-aluminum frame and Digigear technology. Compared to most of the competition, the gears are between 20% to 40% larger. The gears also feature a larger tooth pattern, giving the gears a much longer gear life and durability than competitive reels. Tests reveal a gear life that is one to three times the length of competitive reels. The Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing and Solid Screw-In Handle make this reel ready for the big fish, and the Infinite Dual Anti-Reverse System ensures a smooth drag on the fish.
Key Features
- Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing
- Digigear Technology
- All-Aluminum Frame
- Braided Line Ready Spool
- Carbon ATD
- J-BRAID
- Item Weight: 14.3 Ounces
3. Penn Slammer iii – All-Around Reel
Specifications
- Material : Stainless Steel & Metal
- Max Drag : 30lb
- Weight : 14.7oz
- Gear Ratio : 6.2:1
- Ball Bearing : 7+1
The PENN Slammer III Spinning Fishing Reel is an all-around fishing reel. This reel can be used perfectly for inshore, offshore, or even freshwater fishing. This reel features a spinning design that makes it easy to use, and it also has a great drag system that ensures smooth and consistent performance.
The PENN Slammer III is a heavy-duty fishing reel that can be used from either boat or shore. It features our new IPX6 Sealed System which keeps water out of the gearbox and drag system. We’re also using our updated Slammer Drag System which now utilizes our proprietary Dura-Drag material. The Slammer III is available in sizes 3500-5500 and has an automatic bail trip. The 6500-10500 sizes have a manual bail trip.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty fishing reel
- Full metal body
- Right-hand orientation
- Stainless steel construction
- Retrieve rate of 40 inches
- Saltwater spinning reel
4. Shimano Stradic FK – Premium Inshore
Specifications
- Line Capacity(LB/YDS) : 10/150, 15/145, 40/105
- Max Drag : 9kg
- Weight : 235g
- Gear Ratio : 6.0:1
- Ball Bearing : 6+1
The Shimano Stradic FK is a high-end spinning reel that is designed for inshore fishing. This reel is made with a die-cast aluminum body and a graphite rotor for strength and durability. It also has a specially designed drag system that provides smooth and consistent drag throughout the entire cast. This reel also features a shielded stainless steel ball-bearing and a titanium-coated line guide for added durability.
The Stradic FK series spinning reels are designed for anglers who demand toughness and durability in their tackle. The reel utilizes Shimano’s latest technology while also drawing on ways of the past, and every part has been designed to improve the angler’s experience on the water. The X-Ship technology provides improved gear durability and eliminates friction between the spool shaft and gear, enhancing the casting performance and allowing for longer casts. The reel also incorporates Shimano’s flagship Hagane gearing and Hagane body, which provides long-lasting, strong, and durable performance and smoothness. The built-in Dyna-Balance rotor and Fluidrive II system, accompanied by Shimano’s Propulsion Line Management System, offer exceptional smoothness and casting capabilities while mitigating line management issues. The reel has a maximum drag of 20 lbs. and a gear ratio of 6.0:1.
Key Features
- Hagane Gearing and Hagane Body for long-lasting strength and durability
- Fluidrive II System for smoothness and exceptional casting
- Available in five sizes to target anything from freshwater to inshore saltwater
- Max drag of 20 pounds
- The gear ratio of 6.0:1
- Weight of 8.3 ounces
- Line retrieve of 35 inches
- Six ball bearings plus one roller bearing
5. 13 FISHING Prototype TX – Smooth Reel
Specifications
- Material : Aluminum
- Max Drag : 20lb
- Weight : 10.2oz
- Gear Ratio : 5.3:1
- Ball Bearing : 8+1
The 13 FISHING Prototype TX Saltwater Inshore Spinning Fishing Reel is a great choice for anglers who want a versatile and durable reel for their inshore fishing needs. This reel features robust construction that can handle the rigors of saltwater fishing, and its spinning design makes it easy to use for a variety of different techniques.
The 13 Fishing Prototype TX Spinning Reel is a great choice for both fresh- and saltwater fishing. Its old-school metal body cover and centrifuge airfoil carbon rotor design provide a high line capacity, while the turbine’s one-piece screw-in handle and 4D forged drive gear offer smooth, uninterrupted rotation. The titanium-coated flat back injection metal bail wire and N.E.R.D. nanotechnology water and debris repellent coating provide durability and peace of mind when you’re reeling in a lunker.
Key Features
- Smooth FREAK drag system for easy drag engagement
- Japanese anti-reverse system for uninterrupted rotation
- 4D forged drive gear for a durable spinning reel
- Titanium coated bail wire for a corrosion-resistant spinning reel
- Centrifuge airfoil carbon rotor design for a smooth spinning reel
- Turbine one piece screw-in handle for a comfortable grip
- N.E.R.D. repellent coating for a water and debris-resistant spinning reel
- Concept Zero bearing technology for a smooth spinning reel
6. Penn Clash II – Lightweight Inshore Spinning Reel
Specifications
- Material : Aluminum
- Max Drag : 15lb
- Weight : 10.1oz
- Gear Ratio : 6.2:1
- Ball Bearing : 9
The Penn Clash II Spinning Reel is a lightweight saltwater shore and kayak fishing reel that is perfect for inshore fishing. This reel features durable construction and a smooth drag system that make it a great choice for anglers who want a reliable reel that can handle saltwater conditions.
The PENN Clash II is the ultimate inshore reel. Featuring our proprietary CNC Gear Technology and HT-100 carbon fiber drag system, the Clash II can handle any inshore species you hook. The Hydrophobic Line Roller Bearing, along with the Clutch Armor System ensures protection to critical components in all weather conditions without sacrificing weight, while the Leveling Slow Oscillation System ensures perfect line lay, cast after cast. Available in sizes 1000-5000, the Clash II has the right size for any inshore application.
Key Features
- 8+1 stainless steel bearing system for a smooth retrieve.
- Leveline Slow Oscillation System for perfect line lay.
- Hydrophobic Line Roller Bearing protects against water damage.
- Full Metal Body and side plate for added durability.
- Available in sizes 1000-5000 to suit any inshore application.
- Grey/Black color scheme.
- Stainless steel handle for a comfortable grip.
7. PENN Pursuit IV – Excellent Inshore Combo
Specifications
- Material : Aluminum
- Rod Length : 7′
- Rod Power : Medium
- Gear Ratio : 6.2:1
- Ball Bearing : 5
The PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is an excellent choice for those looking for a great inshore combo. The reel is built for durability and performance, while the rod is designed for sensitivity and power. This combo is perfect for those who want to fish the inshore waters for redfish, trout, and snapper.
The PENN Pursuit IV spinning combo is a great choice for saltwater anglers who demand a durable and affordable fish-taming setup. The reel features our proven HT-100 drag system and a 4-sealed stainless steel bearing system, making the Pursuit IV a great value for money. The graphite composite rod is also a great choice for durability and comfort, with EVA grips that provide a comfortable hold.
Key Features
- The 4 sealed stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth operation.
- The PENN Dura-Guides are durable and provide smooth line guidance.
- The graphite composite blank is strong and durable.
- The EVA grips are comfortable and provide a firm grip.
- This combo is great for inshore, boat, and surf fishing.
- The reel features our proven HT-100 drag system.
- The reel has a 4-sealed stainless steel bearing system.
- The combo combines the Pursuit IV spinning reel and a graphite composite rod.
- The Pursuit IV spinning reel is a great value for money for saltwater anglers.
What is an Inshore Spinning Reel?
The term “inshore spinning reel” typically refers to a type of fishing reel that is designed for use in saltwater environments, near shorelines. These reels are usually smaller and lighter than other types of fishing reels, making them easier to carry and use for long periods of time. Inshore spinning reels also tend to have a higher gear ratio than other types of fishing reels, which allows for faster line retrieval.
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to choosing the perfect inshore fishing reel, there are a few key factors that need to be considered. The type of fish you plan on targeting, the type of water you’ll be fishing in, and your personal preferences will all play a role in which reel is right for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best inshore fishing reel for your next fishing adventure.
Type of fish
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an inshore fishing reel is the type of fish you plan on targeting. If you’re targeting smaller fish like trout or panfish, you’ll want a lighter reel with a smaller line capacity. On the other hand, if you’re targeting larger saltwater fish like redfish or snook, you’ll need a heavier-duty reel with a larger line capacity.
Type of water
Another important factor to consider is the type of water you’ll be fishing in. If you’re fishing in open water, you’ll need a reel with a higher gear ratio so you can retrieve your line quickly. If you’re fishing in heavy cover, you’ll want a reel with a lower gear ratio so you can make slow, steady retrieves.
Weight
Another key factor to consider is the weight of the reel. Heavier reels are great for larger fish but can be difficult to handle for long periods of time. Lighter reels are easier to handle but may not have the power you need for larger fish.
Drag
The drag is the amount of resistance the reel has when you’re trying to reel in a fish. You’ll want to choose a reel with a smooth drag so you can fight fish effectively.
Line capacity
The line capacity is the amount of line the reel can hold. If you’re fishing for larger fish, you’ll need a reel with a larger line capacity.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio is the number of times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio is great for open water fishing when you need to retrieve your line quickly. A lower gear ratio is ideal for fishing in heavy cover when you need to make slow, steady retrieves.
Saltwater Corrosion Resistance
If you’re fishing in saltwater, you’ll need a reel that’s resistant to corrosion. Choose a reel made from stainless steel or anodized aluminum for the best corrosion resistance.
Ball Bearing
The number of ball bearings in a reel determines how smoothly it will cast and reel. A reel with more ball bearings will have a smoother action than a reel with fewer ball bearings.
Spool
The spool is the part of the reel that the line is wound around. Some spools are made from aluminum, while others are made from graphite. Aluminum spools are more durable, but graphite spools are lighter and easier to handle.
Handle
The handle is another important factor to consider. Some handles are made from plastic, while others are made from metal. Plastic handles are lighter and easier to handle, but metal handles are more durable.
Anti Reverse Functioning
Anti-reverse is a feature that prevents the reel from spinning backward when a fish is running with the line. This is a great feature to have if you’re fishing for larger fish that may put up a fight.
Line Retrieval Rate
The line retrieval rate is the number of inches of line that are retrieved with each turn of the handle. A higher line retrieval rate is great for open water fishing when you need to retrieve your line quickly. A lower line retrieval rate is ideal for fishing in heavy cover when you need to make slow, steady retrieves.
Size
There are many different sizes of inshore fishing reels, so it’s important to choose the right size for the type of fish you’re targeting. For smaller fish like trout or panfish, you’ll want a lighter reel with a smaller line capacity. On the other hand, if you’re targeting larger saltwater fish like redfish or snook, you’ll need a heavier-duty reel with a larger line capacity.
Material
The material of your reel is also important to consider. If you’re fishing in saltwater, you’ll need a reel that’s resistant to corrosion. Choose a reel made from stainless steel or anodized aluminum for the best corrosion resistance.
Price
When it comes to fishing reel, you get what you pay for. Higher-end reels will usually have better build quality and better features than lower-end reels. However, higher-end reels can be quite expensive. If you’re on a budget, you can find good quality reels for a fraction of the cost. Just be sure to do your research before you buy.
Now that you know the key factors to consider when choosing an inshore fishing reel, it’s time to start shopping around. Be sure to read reviews and compare prices to find the best reel for your needs.
Frequently Asked Question
Q. What are the Different Types of Inshore Fishing Reels?
A. There are several different types of inshore fishing reels, including spinning reels, baitcasting reels, and fly reels.
Q. What are the Benefits of Inshore Fishing Reels?
A. Inshore fishing reels offer several benefits over other types of fishing reels. They are typically smaller and lighter, making them easier to carry and maneuver. Inshore fishing reels also have a shorter line capacity, making them less likely to get tangled. Additionally, the drag systems on inshore fishing reels are designed to handle the lighter lines used in inshore fishing, making them ideal for this type of fishing.
Q. What are the Different Features of Inshore Fishing Reels?
A. Inshore fishing reels may have different features depending on the type of reel. However, some common features of inshore fishing reels include a shorter line capacity, a lighter weight, and a drag system designed for lighter lines.
Final Verdict
There are many different types of fishing reels on the market today. Inshore fishing reels are a type of fishing reel that is designed for use in freshwater or saltwater. Inshore fishing reels are typically used for smaller fish, such as bass, trout, and catfish. There are many different brands and models of inshore fishing reels available, so it is important to do your research to find the best reel for your needs.