Best Open Face Fishing Reel

Open face fishing reels – Buying Guide, Reviews, and Comparison

 

If you’re in the market looking for a good open face fishing reel, but you don’t have the time to look at all the available products, this short paragraph is here to assist you in getting the right product. After analyzing and comparing plenty of open face fishing reel reviews and looking at what the top-rated products have to offer, we’ve concluded that the unit that offers great value and performance is the Sougayilang 13+1BB Fishing Reel. It features a hollow frame design that keeps the overall weight of the unit down so that it can be used for long fishing sessions without your hands getting tired. Thanks to the superior drag system, this model delivers incredible stopping power, and the precision-machined pinion gear will make fighting fish feel effortless. Furthermore, the fishing reel is corrosion resistant, and it comes with an extra free spare spool in the package. Should our first choice be unavailable, we recommend you consider the Okuma Avenger ABF Graphite Bait Feeder Reel2.

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

7 Best Open Face Fishing Reels (Reviews) in 2023

 

We’ve done extensive research and studied dozens of products to ensure that we come up with the best open face fishing reel in terms of quality and price. Here are the top products you should consider.

 

 

1. Sougayilang 13+1BB Fishing Reel 

 

This versatile model offers top performance for a very good price, and this makes it a great purchase for both amateur and more experienced anglers who are looking for a product that delivers good value. The body of the fishing reel is made of corrosion-resistant materials that allow it to be used for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

It delivers ultra-smooth performance, which is an advantage for beginners since using the reel feels very easy. Even so, in the right hands, this model can achieve a high level of power since it comes equipped with a superior drag system that offers incredible stopping power.

The main shaft is made of hardened metal, and the perfect mesh drive gear and the precision-machined pinion gear deliver the power that’s needed to fight fish. What’s more, the frame features a hollowed design that delivers great balance so that anglers can use the reel for long hours without ever feeling tired or uncomfortable.

Pros

Thanks to the CNC aluminum construction, this spinning reel boasts a light yet strong frame that can handle use in any environment and weather condition.

The manufacturer has put a lot of care into the inner parts of the unit, and it has used only premium quality components to ensure long-lasting durability and smooth performance.

It is an affordable option that delivers great value and quality, and to make things even better, the package includes an extra free spare spool.

The product also boasts a brilliant appearance, with a stylish finish that you will feel proud to display, and you can also choose between five different colors.

Cons

The handle tends to get loose fairly quickly, and tightening the handle tension screw only solves the issue for a short time.

It is very small, and the bell doesn’t hold a lot of line, which can be problematic if you plan to make long casts.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

2. Okuma Avenger ABF Graphite Bait Feeder Reel2

 

The Okuma Avenger bait feeder spinning reel is a great choice for both amateur and experienced anglers who want performance at a low price. With a body made of graphite, this model is resistant to corrosion and lightweight yet strong, without the flexibility you can expect from metals. The brass pinion gear is finely cut to provide smooth operation and precise handling every time.

With the help of a special roller bearing, you get an anti-reverse function which eliminates back slipping when you need steadiness the most. The die-cast aluminum handle is rigid and strong so that you get to use high crank power every time.

This model comes with different aluminum handle knobs with sizes from 40 to 80, ensuring that you get one that suits you perfectly for excellent handling. Thanks to the patented S-Curve Oscillation system, the Okuma Avenger bait feeder is known for its stability even under heavy loads. The rotor is balanced so that it spreads pressure evenly across its body, improving strength and performance while minimizing wear. You also get a spare ported graphite spool so that you always have a backup when you need it.

Pros

Flexibility can be an issue in metal reels, but this is a problem you won’t have when using this model that comes with a graphite body.

Its versatility recommends it for anglers in all categories of experience, although beginners and intermediate users will find it a better choice than the rest.

Details are essential, and aspects such as the precision-cut pinion gear are good examples of the outstanding attention paid by the manufacturer in the making of this model.

For crank power, you can depend on the aluminum handle that is designed to resist high pressures without a glitch.

Equipped with technologies such as the S-Curve Oscillation System, it is incredibly stable compared to many other models on the market.

Cons

Some issues with line management have been reported in the sense that the reel tends to spool more line toward the back.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

3. Shimano Syncopate 4000 Front Drag Box

 

The Shimano Syncopate features the innovative Quickfire II trigger system that makes it easier to use as well as much more balanced than other more expensive models on the market. It also offers the most efficient one-handed casting system the brand has available right now, all for an amazingly low price, especially considering all of its advanced features.

You can make quick, one-handed casts via the Quick-Fire II system as well as achieve increased distances with less effort and wind knots due to the Propulsion Line Management System it rocks. Other features include Propulsion Spool Lip, its durable graphite frame, side plate, and rotor and the aluminum spool.

It provides reliable performance, and the graphite construction explains its overall lightweight quality. And unlike many reels that look attractive but perform poorly, this reel provides a real and powerful delivery to complement its good looks.

This premium option is also a durable tool that will survive for long if you take good care of it. It is rust-resistant, and the chances it will fail in its mission are very slim. Moreover, it is compatible with a wide range of rods from many brands on the market.

Pros

The Quick-Fire II system ensures that you will be able to cast your line with just one hand, for outstanding results.

Its Propulsion Line Management System is another great plus that will make sure that your line doesn’t get all tangled up in knots and become unusable.

Since it is resistant to rust, you can expect excellent durability and versatility in many different settings.

Great looks are not exactly a must-have for a reel, but it never hurts to have one that not only performs well but also has a beautiful appearance.

Due to its graphite body, this reel manages to be both durable and lightweight, allowing you more maneuverability.

Cons

At least one customer comments on the absence of an instant anti-reverse system, which can be found in many different setups nowadays.

Others say that while it may be lightweight compared to other reels, it is a bit heavy and too large for catching certain fish species, such as trout.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

4. KastKing Sharky III

 

This next-generation KastKing Sharky III spinning reel has a tough structure that allows you to catch trophy fish in freshwater and saltwater. The body and the rotor are made of high percentage fiber-reinforced graphite which makes the structure very lightweight.

It comes with an oversized stainless-steel main shaft, strong mesh manganese brass pinion gears that offer precision, and triple-disc carbon fiber that drags up to 39.5 pounds. The retrieve is very smooth and quiet. It also comes with some extra features like the instant lock anti-reverse and the stainless steel ball bearings.

The fishing reel is sealed with K.I.S.S. (KastKing Intrusion Shield System), which is designed to offer protection for the rotor, spool, and the body by keeping the dirt and the water out. When spooling on braid fishing line, you don’t have to use a backing line thanks to the Shark Fin Braid Ready spool that is made of aluminum.

Pros

The entire structure of this fishing reel is super lightweight.

It safely drags up to 39.5 pounds thanks to the reliable triple-disc carbon fiber.

This item has a wide line capacity and a smooth and balanced retrieving.

The handle and the spool are made of aluminum which makes the structure sturdy.

It is sealed with a water-resistant system to protect the body, the rotor, and the spool from dirt and water.

This reel comes with 10+1 shielded stainless steel bearings that offer effortlessly fishing.

The hardware is made of stainless steel for more durability.

For precision, it comes with a manganese brass alloy gear.

Cons

The design may be uncomfortable for some customers because it is easier to use if you are left-handed than if you are right-handed.

The line retrieval may be uneven as there is sometimes more line at the bottom of the spool.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

5. Piscifun Flame Spinning

 

This spinning fishing reel is very modern, having a particular matte black hollow body, a personalized handle, and an X-shape spool. The sharp design will give you an advanced fishing experience. The entire spinning reel weighs 8.5 ounces, making it suitable for fishing trips.

The structure is lightweight thanks to the spool that is made of aluminum and the narrow hollow graphite body. It also contains lightweight gears and 9 ball bearings with an extra roller bearing that are precisely paired to make the entire mechanism work smoothly.

Featuring a quality drive gear, a metal-reinforced main shaft, and a brass pinion gear for precision, this fishing reel is powerful enough to drag up to 19.8 pounds. The line break ratio is reduced thanks to the triple drag washer. The structure is sturdy thanks to the zinc drive gear that is also corrosion-resistant.

Pros

The Flame fishing reel is powerful and also lightweight thanks to the narrow graphite body and the aluminum spool.

It has 9+1 ball bearings that are high-quality and give you a smooth cast and retrieve act.

The triple drag washers reduce the line break ratio.

For a more powerful operation while fishing, it comes with a zinc drive gear that has precise mesh teeth to face big fish.

The components are assembled with precision and the crisp click sound makes this reel a high-quality one.

You can spool the line with ease thanks to the even line lay.

The drag capacity of this spinning reel is large, dragging up to 19.8 pounds so it is a great plus when you are dealing with big fish.

Cons

The bail is quite large compared to the rest of the reel or compared to other models.

This fishing reel works smoothly, but it is a little bit noisy.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

6. KastKing Summer and Centron

 

Fishing is more pleasant and easier with this product since it is very lightweight thanks to the narrow graphite frame. The high-quality performance offered by this tool and the computer balancing system are a great combination for every fishing lover.

This fishing reel is powerful and it can drag up to 17.5 pounds thanks to the Superior Drag System. For precision and strength, while fighting big fish, this item comes with a mesh drive gear and a machined pinion gear of superior quality. The high tensile graphite frame is resistant to corrosion in order to make the reel more durable.

There are 9 ball bearings that offer smooth performance and one extra bearing with an instant stop and one-way anti-reverse mechanism. The spool has a power launch lip for further casting and it is made of two-color anodized aluminum which makes it sturdy.

Pros

The spool is made of two-color anodized aluminum which increases the resistance to wear.

Casting is easier with this item since it is very compact and lightweight.

It has a great drag system that allows you to drag up to 17.5 pounds.

The gear system offers precision for a better fishing experience.

The fishing line capacity is quite wide.

Besides efficiency, this item has an attractive design thanks to the stylish finish.

The handle is designed to match both left-handed and right-handed person, being interchangeable.

Its 9+1 bearings give this fishing reel an ultra-smooth performance.

For fighting power, it comes with a hardened metal main shaft and an alloy drive gear.

Cons

This fishing reel is not specially made for saltwater use, so be careful to clean the reel after using it in saltwater to prevent any deterioration over time.

This item is not made for professional use, being more suitable for an entry-level/beginner.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

7. KastKing Valiant Eagle

 

The Valiant Eagle fishing reel is built for speed and power and even its name suggests that. It is designed to work in both freshwater and saltwater which makes it great for a passionate fisherman. Since speed is one of its main features, this fishing reel has a 6:2:1 gear ratio.

The E.P.S. (Expanded Pinion System) provides consistent performance and strength, while the S.S.R. (Sliding Stabilizer Rod) gives this product long-life durability. The enhanced graphite rotor and frame also give this fishing reel sturdiness even though it is a comfortable-to-use lightweight structure.

It comes with 10+1 ball bearings made of stainless steel that make the entire mechanism work smoothly. The CNC machined spool is made of anodized aluminum for high performance. It also has a line management system that allows you to cast on a long distance.

Pros

This fishing reel is built to work fine in both saltwater and freshwater.

It is a lightweight structure and yet very powerful, having a drag capacity of 22 pounds.

Speed is the main feature of this product, having a fast 6.2:1 gear ratio.

The consistent performance and the smooth retrieving is ensured by the 10+1 ball bearings that are made of stainless steel.

The E.P.S. and S.S.R. systems offer the reel strength and durability.

Its spool improves the line control and it increases the casting distance.

Moreover, the spool doesn’t need linebacking since it is braid-line-ready in order to avoid slippage.

The handle is lightweight and it is made of aluminum, providing you great control and leverage in any weather conditions.

Cons

The fishing line may retrieve uneven, depending on the quality of the line.

After a number of uses, the handle needs constant tightening.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

Buying guide

 

No matter what sort of fishing rod you have, you need a quality reel if you want to catch anything and feel good doing it. With a proper fishing reel, you get to cast the line farther away, enjoy smoother drag performance and you maximize the chances of catching fish. So here are some essentials you should be aware of before you purchase the best spinning fishing reel for your needs.

Aluminum or graphite?

The body of an open face reel is usually made of graphite or aluminum. Graphite is a carbon composite that’s light, resistant to corrosion and ideal for anglers who wish a small and easy-to-handle reel. However, graphite gets more easily damaged and can wear at a faster rate than aluminum.

On the other side, aluminum is stronger and more reliable, although it makes for heavier reels. It is also susceptible to corrosion, especially when exposed to saltwater for a long time. However, there are many modern treatments to increase resistance to corrosion, such as protective coatings and anodization.

Prevent line breaks with a proper drag system

Especially when it comes to catching larger fish, you need to have a drag system that you can rely on. A drag system allows you to keep the line properly tensed while also providing you with more control over release when fighting fish without risking breaking the line.

With a high-performance drag system, you get a smooth operation and prevent long struggles and potentially lost catches due to jerky line movement or too much tension.

 

A comfortable grip is very important

No matter how good your fishing reel is, you also want it to be comfortable to hold and handle. You need a large handle with a knob that’s the right size and shape so that you get a firm grip while also avoiding fatigue after prolonged use.

Comfort is just as important as performance, so don’t forget to check out the size and shape of the handle (as well as build material) when looking at open face fishing reels for sale.

 

While having information about the best open face reel that you can buy is indeed valuable, we figured many people are just starting out in this great pastime called “fishing” and, as such, may be lacking when it comes to their level of understanding spinning reels. As a result, a good crash course for amateur anglers can be about learning the components of an open-face reel.

Not only is this important to know for obvious reasons when you make a purchase but this type of knowledge will definitely help you when trouble arises with your gear. Knowing the ins and outs of your craft will also help you fine-tune your entire fishing experience and will, in the long run, make you a better angler for sure. 

 

Drag

Starting at the top of the spinning reels, you will find the drag system. In plain English, this is what adds or removes tension to your fishing line, pulling or releasing the string in the process. A solid knob on top of the spool (and you may also find it in the back sometimes) allows the angler to comfortably adjust the frictionless plates, increasing or decreasing tension.

This kind of option to adjust can be a great help when fighting fish. For instance, if you catch one and you have a lighter drag, your prey will obviously have more control. A tighter drag will allow far less control to the fish but the tension on your line will also be increased as well. 

 

Spool

Going down, exactly beneath the drag adjustment knob you will find something known as the spool. This acts as the home base for your fishing line and will usually be specific to your particular type of reel. The spool is what makes having an open face reel great since the item itself won’t be spinning when you reel but the line will move around it.

This type of action prevents tangles in your line, allowing the angler for smoother casting and releasing and increasing the enjoyment of the entire process. It’s important to always check your spool line’s capacity when adding line to your reel. Usually, you’ll have it written down somewhere along the component’s face.

 

Bail

The bail accomplishes two essential purposes in the fishing process. The first one is that it serves as the casting trigger. To toss your bait you must first open or activate the bail in order to allow the line to spool off properly. In the same way, you must close the bail when you want to retrieve or reel in something.

Closing it should be a simple-enough process since most of them work by turning the handle as if you are reeling, thus activating the automatic closing system. Some anglers, however, like to close the bail manually (which also works) by flipping the thing back to its original position. They argue that this method offers better control when it comes to how much line is being released.

The second function that the bail has to accomplish is to keep the fishing line in-line as it ends the journey coming off and rolling onto the spool. Without it, the line would not have a set direction and could be thrashing about, even causing knots and obviously limiting performance in the process. The bail arm is what keeps every cast and retrieval as smooth as possible.

 

Handle

Spinning reels are entities in their own right but if you opt for a baitcasting one, you should know that it will generally be right-hand or left-hand specific. However, it may be worth knowing that you can actually change the way spinning reels work so that they will also be perfect for you. 

Switching from a right-hand retrieve to a left-hand retrieve is a simple-enough action as the only thing that you have to do is to unscrew the knob on the opposite side of your handle. Thank us now, bring back some salmon later.

Anti-reverse switch

The final piece of the awesome puzzle that is your open face reel is the anti-reverse switch. Usually found at the bottom of spinning reels, it can become your best friend if you are in the habit of fighting fish that do not want to be taken out of the water.

What the switch does is that it enables you to backreel or, in other words, reel in reverse, without having to solely rely on the drag system of the open face reel for line tension. This method works particularly well for lighter fish that offer less of a fight. If you’re dealing with anything bigger than a bass, the rule of thumb would be to rely on the drag as it is more reliable. 

 

Closing remarks

Spin fishing can also be a great way to introduce beginners to a fishing style since it is relatively simple to understand and perform. With these descriptions and tips that we have laid before you, we are certain you will have a better understanding of spinning reels and their components.

Furthermore, it’s also true that what we said until now are simple tips for people just starting to dab in this amazing activity called fishing. If you’re a very competitive person and want to start landing trophy catches as soon as possible, understanding your gear and your open face reel, in particular, won’t be enough but it will act as a launching platform. 

Get out there, get in the water and start putting your new open face reel to good use. Furthermore, you should keep in mind that this type of reel is more user-friendly and more attuned to beginners than a baitcasting reel ever will be. While both are great in their own right, it’s largely in the hands of the angler when it comes to the best personal choice for fishing.

Choosing your spinning reel is all the experience that you have had until now and want to have in the future. The open face reel models have the advantage of allowing for a wide variety of baits in different types of water, while the skill curve is noticeably less steep than a baitcasting one.

 

 

Unavailable Products:

 

Penn Spinfisher V

 

The Penn Spinfisher V is a fishing reel that’s engineered to function well even under extreme conditions, thanks to its watertight design that’s meant to keep all saltwater out as well as the use of materials with high corrosive resistance. The full-metal design provides long-term durability and continuous gear alignment even under high pressures so that you get the leverage you need when fighting intense battles with heavy fish.

With this model, you get the new HT-100 slammer drag system which ensures a longer drag range as well as finer operation across the entire drag range. With three grease-treated drag washers, you get smooth performance and versatility even at max drag while preventing the dreaded line break. You also get to see how much line there’s left with only a glance, thanks to the line capacity rings.    

With 5 stainless steel bearings, this fishing reel will provide even novice anglers with smooth and fluid cranking even at higher gear ratios. The anti-reverse bearing keeps the line steady and ensures that it doesn’t slip and ruin your catch. You also get a friction trip ramp which makes for precise casting even at longer casting distances while also preventing the bail-tripping, allowing for pinpoint accuracy.

 

 

Pflueger President Spinning Reel

 

If you’re searching for a fishing reel that offers top performance for a low price, then the Pflueger President is an excellent choice. The body and rotor are made of high-quality graphite to offer a solid and durable support that’s also very light without sacrificing strength, capable of supporting high pressures without flexing. The handle combines high-grade aluminum with an ergonomic design to provide you with a strong grip for heavy crank power and improved comfort.

The Pflueger President features 9 stainless steel ball bearings which guarantee smooth operation as well as high resistance to side loads. These bearings also allow users to cast the line further and easier, increasing the chances of catching fish. The reel comes with a multi-disc drag system which uses well-oiled stainless steel washers in order to increase pulling power while keeping the drag smooth.

The main shaft is made of heavy-duty stainless steel which ensures well-functioning in the corrosive environment of seawaters. The aluminum spool is anodized to preserve its bright color while also increasing resistance to chemical or mechanical damage. Thanks to the Sure-Click Bail system, you get to sense as well as hear when the fish bites.

Pros

With a frame made from graphite, this open-face reel is lightweight and easy to maneuver, without sacrificing durability.

Its aluminum handle offers the same characteristics and will withstand a lot of wear and tear, even when higher pressure is applied.

Due to the presence of 9 stainless steel ball bearings, smooth operation is assured, and you will have no problems with the friction that could cause additional wear.

The drag washers are also made from stainless steel so that they will resist to usage in saltwater conditions, without any signs of rust and corrosion.

One of the features that make this reel stand out is the Sure-Click Bail system that will let you know when a fish bites as soon as possible.

Cons

There are some complaints from users in regards to the apparent inability of this fishing reel to handle light braid lines.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) What does a fishing reel do?

2) What to consider when choosing a fishing reel

3) The Open face Spinning Reel

4) Fishing Reel Types Explained