Fishing reel rating: 16 models that will bring success in fishing

The first coils had a primitive design. They were a regular drum from which the fishing line was unwinded by rotation. The next stage was inertia-free models, but multiplier options are considered the peak of perfection. These are inertial devices, but slightly changed, having received a more advanced body and structure.

The multiplier has a number of advantages over standard models:

• a more powerful braking system that allows you to retrieve large trophies;
• the ability to use thick fishing line or thread;
• more careful control of gear and catch in the water.

The disadvantages include the relatively high price, which in retail stores can reach tens of thousands of rubles. But, as always, the AliExpress platform comes to the rescue, offering quite affordable options with an affordable price tag and acceptable quality. In our rating, we selected models from popular and little-known manufacturers that have received a lot of positive reviews and are in the highest demand among customers.

What to look for when choosing a reel

The choice of reel is not limited only by the size of the spool and the power capabilities for casting the necessary weights.

1. Case material. Modern materials and alloys are so diverse that a reel can be made entirely of metal alloys or combined with various light alloys and plastics. The use of lightweight plastics reduces the weight of the reel, as well as the durability of the product. All-metal reels have increased reliability, are not afraid of impacts, and will last much longer than plastic ones.
2. Brake design. More difficult than other types of coils. It is the braking system that is the stumbling block for beginners in mastering reels. Proper reel tuning requires an understanding of the braking system. When casting, the spool spins, unwinding the line under the force of a flying load or bait. When the bait falls into the water, the force on the line decreases significantly, but the spool continues to spin by inertia. The initial moment of casting and when the bait falls, the braking system comes into action. It can be magnetic or centrifugal. The principle of the first is to slow down the rotating spool due to small magnets. The essence of the centrifugal system is to move weights under the action of centrifugal force to a special partition and friction against it.
3. Left-handed and right-handed multiplier reels. Multis, unlike inertia-free reels, do not have the ability to simply rearrange the handle. You must immediately select a reel for the required hand.
4. Choice of fishing line. When choosing a reel, you should pay attention to the recommended diameter of the lines used. A diameter exceeding the recommended ones disables the braking system, and thinner fishing line can get into the gap between the spool and the body, which can lead to breakage on the next cast.
5. Reels with and without line guide. The presence of a line layer allows you to evenly wind the line onto the reel spool without humps, holes, or cutting the line between the wound turns. At the same time, it reduces the casting distance as a result of additional friction of the line on the line guide. There are reel designs with a line guide that can be switched off before casting. This design is more preferable.
6. Sensitivity to bobbin lock. The reel design has a spool locking mechanism that prevents it from spinning freely. When casting, the lock must be removed, and when retrieving, it must be installed. To protect against equipment breakage when the spool is locked, a special switch is provided.
7. Other. Since multiplier reels are designed for power fishing, their components are subject to heavy loads. The most vulnerable places are the friction points of individual elements. These are primarily bearings. They need to be lubricated periodically. Well-known reel manufacturers come with a special lubricant for these purposes.

Selection instructions: 15 tips

1. " Mult " must correspond to the capabilities of the spinning rod . For jigging from the shore using bait in the weight range from 18 to 32 grams, a St.Croix Wild River WC86MHF2 spinning rod (2.59 meters) and a Caclcuta 250 multiplier are suitable. A more powerful pair is Lamiglas Certified Pro Graphite X106MNS-T with a length of 3.2 meters and “mult” Ambassadeur 5600AB. From Shimano products you can make the following combination of economy class: Beast Master Casting with a length of 2.7 meters and a Catala 200 multiplier;
2. An MK with a metal body (for example, aluminum alloy) and a metal clutch is reliable and lasts longer than the same price as a plastic reel;
3. Choose a multiplier with 6 weights in the braking system , because depending on the weight of the bait, their number will have to be changed;
4. The left-handed “multi” is chosen by anglers who are accustomed to a spinning reel;
5. The multiplier indicates the minimum and maximum diameters of the fishing line. If the diameter is smaller than indicated on the reel, the line may end up between the body and the spool; If it is more, the braking system does not work effectively and the coil is damaged. This must be taken into account when choosing a fishing line or cord;
6. A multiplier with a line layer is preferable , thanks to it the line is laid evenly and the reel lasts longer. It is important that this device can be turned off before casting and turned on after it: when the line guide is turned on, the maximum possible casting distance is reduced;
7. For fishing with braided lines , it is better that the MK line guide has a ceramic eyelet . The braided wire cuts holes over time. Fishing with monofilament does not imply restrictions in terms of the eye;
8. Check how the bobbin locking system works. If the reel handle starts to spin during the swing, the spool will lock up and most casts will be ineffective and unsafe for the angler;
9. Choose a multiplier with durable ball bearings made of reliable metal ;
10. The baitcasting reel should come with a tube of bearing grease; Read more about how to properly lubricate a spinning reel in our article
11. A budget reel needs to be “run in”, after which the bait casting range increases by about 20 percent. Elite MKs function like a watch from the first use;
12. The ideal option for jigging on small bodies of water is a low-profile baitcasting reel;
13. For a deep-sea reservoir, you should choose a barrel-shaped MK;
14. When choosing a “mult”, give preference to reels from reliable brands (see below);
15. Chinese MKs attract attention with their price, but they are usually very short-lived, since they consist of plastic parts ;

Top 5 Best KastKing Products

Features of KastKing products include:

1. High quality of products. Only durable materials are used for production, which guarantees a minimal risk of breakdowns even with intensive use.
2. Affordable prices. Even people with little financial resources can afford KastKing products. This is due to production in China, which is characterized by cheap labor.
3. A wide range of. The company offers reels for various fishing conditions, baits, and fisherman’s experience.

In just 5 years of operation, KastKing has achieved unprecedented success. The products of this brand can be found in every fishing store in the USA and Europe. The company does not plan to stop there, constantly expanding its range of high-tech products.

Spinning reel Sharky II (2)

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Features and Description

The Kastking Sharky II is one of the most popular spinning reels. Made in China and is an excellent choice for a beginning spinning player. It combines fairly high quality, stylish appearance and affordable price. Main technical characteristics:

• can withstand loads of up to 19 kg;
• protection against twisting of the cord or fishing line;
• protection against water penetration when the reel is in water for up to 3 minutes;
• 11 bearings guaranteeing smooth operation of the mechanism;
• special coating that protects the reel from water ingress;
• the presence of a reverse stopper, which controls even weak bites;
• high functionality of the front clutch, which guarantees easy fishing even for large fish.

The Kastking Sharky II reel guarantees smooth bites. When used correctly, there is no play even after several years of active use. Many fishermen can be confused by the noise during casting, which occurs when the side and the line come into contact.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros

• Stylish and modern design.
• Reliable protection against moisture, which significantly increases the service life of the product.
• Light weight and compact size.
• Instant reverse stop.
• High product reliability.
• Powerful, fixed line handle.

Minuses

• No spare spool.
• Slight play in the handle.
• There is no polishing on the line trailing surface.

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Reviews

Today I looked at the coil again. I found a chip on the spool. The photo shows this is my third reel from this seller. One was sent from China, two from Moscow. So these are the ones that came from Russia, both with some kind of defects: the 3000 size reel has a sound of something hitting when rotating, like a knocking sound, the second 5000 size reel has a chip on the spool (it doesn’t seem to affect the functionality, but a feeling of secondary product arises). The one from China - no complaints. Everything is fine. Dear Chinese seller - please take customer reviews into account. I'm not the first one to have the same opinion about the quality of reels sent from Russia or China.

Delivery from China to Bashkortostan 12 days! The reel is excellent! The only thing is that the diameter of the hexagon is smaller than the hole for it, hence the play... the hexagon will have to be tinned, thereby increasing the diameter. And so an excellent kata! winding 0.6 wattles on one and a half racks. Added one washer slightly thinner than the original one. The roller was wedged. I smeared it with liquid oil and sanded the plastic washer between the bow and the roller!

For its price, the reel is super! There are 11 bearings, the motion is smooth, it weighs about 250 grams, the spool handle and all the insides are metal, the rest is high-quality plastic, the lubrication is good, everything works. Delivery from China to the north-west of Russia is about 13 days. I bought it on 11/11 for 1300 instead of 3500 thousand rubles. Shipping is very fast, I recommend the seller!! Thanks to the seller!!

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Conclusion

Kastking Sharky II is a high-quality, durable and easy-to-use reel, which in its characteristics is practically not inferior to its European counterparts, but has an affordable price. In terms of design, it is slightly inferior to branded products, but this has virtually no effect on functionality.

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Spinning reel Sharky III (3)

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Features and Description

The KastKing Sharky III reel features a more durable design and smoother action than its predecessor. It is produced using highly efficient three-cylinder carbon fiber, which allows it to be used for catching large fish. Features of the product include the presence of 11 shielded bearings made of stainless steel. To protect the device from moisture, the KastKing KISS system is used, which increases the service life of the device.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros

• Made from carbon fiber, which guarantees high strength and durability.
• Possibility of use in fresh and sea water.
• Availability of classic front and rear drag function.
• Withstands loads up to 19 kg.
• Aluminum bobbin guarantees no corrosion.
• A spare graphite coil is supplied with the device.
• Stylish and modern design in rich black and bright red color combinations.
• The presence of a reliable handle with a T-shaped handle. The handle can be rearranged for right-handed and left-handed people.

Minuses

• Presence of play in the bow mechanism.
• Slightly rough clutch adjustment.

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Reviews

Delivery to Astrakhan 5 days from the date of payment, the courier called and arrived right at the entrance. Regarding the Reel: It’s beautifully made, I immediately took it apart and looked at there is enough lubrication everywhere, the action is smooth like expensive reels, I myself have Shimano Nascay and Stinger Power Edge, the motion is smoother than the Stinger, the play is minimal, there is no noise, in short the first impression is fire, I’ll go fishing I’ll add review In general, the impression after fishing: The winding is good, like the Stinger, the long-casting one flies far from it, I put it on the Maximus Raptor x very light, the first 10 casts with a load of 26g it seemed that the stroke was a little tight, it was hard, but it was minus 3 degrees outside, then it became easier and It’s easier to spin in the end. The ride became very smooth and I stopped feeling the heaviness at the other end. The clutch handled the 3kg Pike with a bang! In general, conclusion: I liked the reel, it’s comfortable and light, it holds 200m of 0.13 cord, maybe a little more Casting, Stroke. Time will tell. It’s up to you to decide whether to take it or not. I like it so far.

The reel is made of a graphite body, the handle rotates under its own weight, and at its price ($38) it has no competitors. Except, maybe, ryobi/daiwa/shimano, because the Sharky 3 is very heavy, and the ride out of the box is very heavy, with a rustle. It must be developed, of course. In general, for a spinning rod - Ok, the beating on the handle is an order of magnitude less than very cheap reels.

The seller sent the reel three days after payment; the parcel took about three weeks to Astrakhan. That is, everything corresponds to the stated delivery times. Now about the coils themselves: I took the 3000 option, for MAXIMUS GRAVITY 240M(M) 7-35 g. The tandem turned out to be chic and balanced. The stroke of the reel is soft, with virtually no play, it is minimized. The 0.16 eight-core cord from DAIWA was marked in a wet state without any complaints. I want to say the same about casting: without loops, everything is very and even very decent. Which is good news. This is my first time buying a reel for $50, and I want to tell KASTKING to keep it up! Ultra-budget but quality! I have known this brand for about 5 years, having studied the history of the brand. This is an American brand, quite popular in America itself. This is indeed probably one of the highest quality products presented on the AliExpress site. This is not just “Chinese”... as some may squeamishly allow themselves to put it. The brand is a “daughter” of the company “EPOSEIDON”. I recommend it. Updated reviews This is my first spinning kit, I immediately mastered casting. I tested the kit on the water. The stick positions itself as a Dzhigit one, but the waters fly as they say “Ogooooo”. I am pleasantly surprised by all the parameters. I strongly recommend the seller as well as the brand/store.

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Conclusion

KastKing Sharky III is the latest generation of the famous brand of spinning reels. The experience of the previous two products allowed us to eliminate the main shortcomings and make the reel even more convenient, functional and durable. Now the KastKing Sharky III is a truly universal product that will be useful for any fishing, both on a quiet river and in the ocean. At the same time, the cost of the product is kept at an affordable level. Thus, in terms of cost and quality ratio, this product has become a real discovery for beginners and experienced spinning players.

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Reel Spartacus

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Features and Description

The universal KastKing Spartacus reel quickly gained popularity among beginners and experienced fishermen who prefer spinning fishing. The secret to the success of the device is the high quality of the product, the use of wear-resistant materials and an affordable price. The reliability of the reel is confirmed by positive reviews.

Coil characteristics:

• weight is 222 grams;
• Up to 150 meters of braided cord can be wound on the reel;
• the presence of 11+1 bearings, which guarantees smooth running and uniform reeling of the fishing line;
• An aluminum handle is used to make the handle, which ensures long service life and comfortable hand holding;
• spool weight is almost 20 g;
• the body consists of a right and left cover, frame;
• The body has a convenient shape and no sharp corners.

The modern design and functionality of the reel makes it one of the most convenient options for fishing on the river or sea. Unlike European brands, KastKing Spartacus is inexpensive, but at the same time meets modern standards.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros

• The weight of the reel is less than that of similar products from European brands.
• There are no plastic bushings, which guarantees a long service life and uniform operation of the mechanism.
• Metal nut for central brake control.
• The body is made of high-strength material.
• Smooth and reliable brake that is easy to adjust to specific fishing conditions.

Minuses

• During casting, a rather loud rustling noise sometimes occurs.
• In some samples there is play in the handle.

More details

Reviews

The coil reached Izhevsk in 23 days. Packed well, but the box was still wrinkled. Thank God all the contents are intact, everything spins, spins, and can be adjusted. The quality is good for this price range. I wound 0.18 braid, it fit on the spool all the way to 130 meters, but with some wedging, in the end I left it at 120, but there was still a gap and everything rotates perfectly. I haven’t tested it on water, I don’t think there will be any problems. I recommend the seller, everything is as in the ad.

The goods went exactly a month to Kazakhstan. I ordered a pack of spool and monofilament. Everything came in a box that was packed with bubble wrap. The reel is simply amazing, completely made of metal, the monofilament is durable and of high quality, just like the reel. The seller put a gift: Spinner, thank him for this! In general, I recommend the seller, responsive and good person! Goods match the description!

I searched for a long time and decided to settle on Kastking. I took a cartoon and a Black Halk 2 rod. I will master fishing with a cartoon, before that I will fish with regular reels. The assembled fishing rod weighs 390 grams. I was pleased with the product.

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Conclusion

KastKing Spartacus has a stylish and modern design, and its characteristics are not inferior to European brands. The main advantage is the lower cost, which makes the reel popular among spinners.

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Reel Royale Legend

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Features and Description

The Kastking Royale Legend fishing reel features a stylish design, the use of strong and durable materials, ease of use and an affordable price. Features of the product include a double braking system, which makes the reel an excellent solution for fishing in fresh and sea water. The gear ratio is 7.0:1 and the maximum towing capacity is 8kg. Can be used for right and left hands.

Main characteristics:

• weight is 213 grams;
• number of bearings 11+1;
• maximum load is 8 kg;
• the line capacity of the spool is 0.26 mm/180 m by 0.30 mm/110 m;
• combination of magnetic and centrifugal brake.

Kastking Royale Legend reels are the optimal solution for beginners and experienced fishermen due to their simple design, as well as the presence of bearings in all moving parts, which makes the move smooth. And the presence of a ceramic line layer makes the structure more durable.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros

• low weight and dimensions;
• Possibility of use for left and right hands;
• versatility of use regardless of the reservoir;
• 12 bearings guaranteeing smooth running;
• dual braking system for ease of use;
• affordable price level.

Minuses

• designed for fish weights up to 8 kg, so not suitable for larger predators;
• slight play in the handle;
• loud sound when casting.

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Conclusion

The reel kit includes instructions for use and disassembly in English. Kastking Royale Legend is an excellent solution for any spinning rods. Can be used in fresh water and sea. It is distinguished by its affordable price, high quality materials, stylish design and thoughtfulness of all elements.

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Fishing line Mega8 Super Strong

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Features and Description

KastKing Mega 8 Super Strong – fishing line for 274 meters. Made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber. This is the strongest fiber in the world, which guarantees high tensile strength as well as zero elongation. A special feature of the cord is an innovative high-tech coating that guarantees maximum surface smoothness. This minimizes friction and increases casting distance.

Characteristics:

• eight-core high-strength fishing cord;
• the presence of a special coating that increases the smoothness of the material;
• fishing cord has a thickness of 0.14, 0.18 and 0.23 mm;
• Available in black, green, yellow and blue.

A wide range of cord allows you to choose the best option in diameter and color, depending on the expected weight of the prey and the spinning rod used.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros

• Individual strands that are twisted together to improve wear resistance and increase retraction force.
• The material is highly resistant to fading.
• There is no memory effect, which makes casting smoother and more accurate.
• Fast transmission of bite information, which makes fishing effective.
• A wide range of cords of different thicknesses and colors.
• Stylish and modern design.
• Quickly cutting through water.
• It does not absorb moisture, so it is the optimal solution for winter fishing.

Minuses

• Some types of cord leave paint marks on your fingers.
• Presence of noise when casting.

More details

Reviews

The braid, as expected, looks a little thicker than I wanted. When the spool was fully wound, my fingers still got a little stained. But the stated tensile test holds up perfectly. I checked it three times. It tore not at the knot by an average of 6.6 kg, but once even by 7 kg. Overall I'm not disappointed. I recommend the seller and the braid itself. Having watched a lot of video reviews about it, I think I won’t be disappointed.

The order arrived in Yaroslavl in 2 weeks, high-quality 8-wire so generally super ha this money, maybe someone who is an esthete will certainly find something to complain about, for me it’s quite... there’s no point in overpaying for practically the same thing... it corresponds to the description, with did not communicate with the seller, the track was tracked...

The braid is wonderful! Enough for winding without any backing! Holds up well and doesn't fade. Last year I bought a very expensive fence (I don’t remember the brand), the paint came off after a day of use! And this one is better in every way! I've taken it more than once. and I will take it!

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Conclusion

The main advantage of the KastKing Mega8 Super Strong fishing line is its affordable price. It is much lower than that of products from European manufacturers, but the quality remains at a very high level.

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