Looking for a great ultralight fishing reel for your favorite panfishing spot or trout stream? Field and Stream took a look at the top 5 ultralight reels and this is what they found.
#1. The SORÖN STX 10 from Abu Garcia
This ultralight fishing reel is one of the newest from Abu Garcia, which is one of the world’s best producers of fishing equipment for serious anglers. This light reel weighs 8.2 oz and can hold 140 yards of 4 lb test line. Its 5.1:1 retrieve ration allows it to bring in line quickly and smoothly. It also features an amazing 11 bearings, which is more than you are likely to find in any other ultralight fishing reel. The reel’s side plate and frame are created with an anti-corrosion alloy, which probably means that this reel will last for quite a while. The Field and Stream testers rated this reel as their number one choice because it provided an extremely smooth retrieve and a comfortable casting position. The only downside reported by the testers was that the reel had what they called a ‘sticky bail’, meaning the angler had to push it over with their hand. The SORÖN STX 10 is also rather expensive at $130.
SORÖN STX 10 – Check Prices & Buy Here
#2. The Catalyst CT10PTI-A from Quantum
The reel is composed of an aluminum body and has a very thin profile. It weighs 8.45 oz and holds 125 yards of 4 lb test line. It comes with a 5.33:1 retrieve rate, a magnetic clutch and 8 bearings inside of the reel. The testers felt that this ultralight fishing reel was smooth, easy to use and that it felt great in their hands. The downsides as reported by the testers included a plastic drag knob and the potential for a slow drag, although all of the testers would recommend it to other anglers. Quantum also offers a repair guarantee that states you will get your reel back from the shop within 48 hours of sending it in. Some would say this reel is expensive. It runs for about $129.
Catalyst CT10PTI-A – Check Prices & Buy Here
#3. The Citori from Browning
This ultralight fishing reel was named for one of the company’s most popular shotguns. It is composed of strong aluminum in its rotor and frame and it features a lip that is coated in titanium to help manage the line. The testers all reported that this reel offered smooth casting and that the 5.1:1 gear ratio provided for nice retrieves. This reel features 8 bearings and can hold 120 yards of 4 lb test line. It comes with a soft rubber handle that is large in size. For $99 RRP it is a cheaper alternative to some of the top brands.
Citori Browning – Check Prices & Buy Here
#4. The Micro Lite Supreme from Bass Pro Shops
This is a much less expensive version of an ultralight fishing reel. It weighs only 6.2 oz but still has a gear ratio of 5.2:1 and 8 bearings. It can hold 105 yards of 4 lb test line. This lightweight design comes from the graphite frame, but the handle is made of aluminum for added strength. This is an extremely cost effective reel at $38. Several testers complained that the reel was difficult to prevent tangles with and that the bail was harder to flip than it should be.
Micro Lite Supreme – Check Prices & Buy Here
#5. The SS700 Tournament Ultralight Spinning Reel from Daiwa
This is a tournament quality ultralight fishing reel that is lightweight in design. It is also rather expensive at around $100 however in this case you get what you pay for! It weighs 7 oz and can hold 145 yards of 4 lb test line. It has a 4.9:1 gear ratio and 3 bearings. Its precision worm gear ensures that the line is evenly crossed wrapped during the retrieve and its roller bail trip mechanism is very reliable. The SS700 is one of the best ultralight reels available on the market and is priced accordingly.
SS700 Tournament – Check Prices & Buy Here
Don’t Forget to check out our Ultralight Fishing Post!