The Ultimate Guide To Spinning Reel Sizes: How To Choose The Right One

A good grip on spinning reel sizes guarantees anglers choose the right gear with the capacities for their intended fishing applications. With the loose standards used to classify these reels, some beginners might find this aspect a little complicated. On top of it, since there are many factors that require their attention while choosing a spinning reel, anglers can easily overlook sizing.  This article will shed some light on spinning reel sizes, so you can easily pick out the proper specifications for your fishing purposes.

Spinning Reel Sizes Explained

Two classifying systems are being used for spinning reels. Reel manufacturers like Daiwa Penn and Shimano use the 1000s system for their reels.  This system starts at 500, which is the smallest and ultralight size, to 30,000, which is a heavy-duty size that fits all intent and purposes of fishing.  The other system, used by brands like Pfleuger and Abu Garcia, is relatively similar. It starts with 10 and moves all the way up to 30, 40, and beyond. While there are some deviations, a reel size 10 typically corresponds to 1000, and a reel size 3500 is similar to the size 3500. Thus, it should not be confusing when looking at the spinning reel size, as only the first two digits matter. In both systems, the smaller the number indicates the smaller reel. As the number increases, so does the size of the reel.

Spinning Reel Size Chart

Small-sized spinning reel (1000-3500)

Reel Size	Mono Strength	Braid Strength	Applications	Recommended Fish Size	Recommended Species
1000	2-4lb	4-8lb	Ultra-light and finesse inshore fishing	3lb or smaller	Crappie, Yellow Perch, Trout, Bluegill
2000	4-6lb	4-8lb	Ultra-light and finesse inshore fishing	5lb or smaller	Bass, Crappie, Yellow Perch, Trout, Bluegill
2500	5-8lb	5-12lb	Light and finesse inshore fishing	2-7lb	Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye
3000	6-10lb	6-14lb	Light general purpose inshore Light surf fishing	2-15lb	Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Catfish
3500	6-10lb	6-14lb	Light general purpose inshore Light surf fishing	2-15lb	Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Catfish

Small-sized reels are meant for inshore fishing, mostly freshwater but sometimes coastal waters. They are generally used for targeting small classes of fish (up to 15lb). Light fishing rods from 6 to 9 feet are recommended for this size range.

Medium-sized spinning reels (4000-5500)

Reel Size	Mono Strength	Braid Strength	Applications	Recommended Fish Size	Recommended Species
4000	8-12lb	8-20lb	Medium freshwater fishing Medium inshore saltwater fishing	10-20lb	Muskie, Catfish, Redfish, Snapper, Snook
4500	8-12lb	8-20lb	Medium freshwater fishing Medium inshore saltwater fishing	10-20lb	Muskie, Catfish, Redfish, Snapper, Snook
5000	10-14lb	10-25lb	Medium freshwater fishing Medium inshore saltwater fishing	10-30 lb and up	Muskie, Catfish, Redfish, Snapper, Snook
5500	10-14lb	10-25lb	Medium freshwater fishing Medium inshore saltwater fishing	10-30 lb and up	Muskie, Catfish, Redfish, Snapper, Snook

Medium-sized reels are sweet spots for many anglers as they offer a wide range of applications. They can tackle inshore fishing of all sorts. You can also use them for surf, rock, and lighter pier fishing.  This size range can withstand the fight of fish up to 30 pounds. Medium size reels are ideal for rods between 7 and 8 feet, which is not overkill for small species like panfish but is still capable of handling big fish.

Large-sized spinning reels (6000-30000)

On the higher spectrum, we have larger, more heavy-duty spinning reels. They are ideal for heavier rods and provide more line capacity for surf fishing, offshore boat fishing, and rock fishing.  Large-sized reels are suitable for sturdy game rods that are at least 5 feet and surf rods that can run up to 15 feet.  Spinning reels in this size category are pretty identical, meaning that you might not differentiate them by just looking. For example, a 14,000 reel from a brand can look the same as a 20,000 from another.  For this reason, you should refer to the label or specifications first to make sure the reel can meet your requirements.

Reel Size	Mono Strength	Braid Strength	Applications	Recommended Species
6000	12-16lb	12-30lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Striped Bass, Snook, Salmon, Redfish
6500	12-16lb	12-30lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Striped Bass, Snook, Salmon, Redfish
7000	14-18lb	15-40lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Striped Bass, Snook, Salmon, Redfish
7500	16-20lb	20-50lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Striped Bass, Snook, Salmon, Redfish
8000	16-20lb	20-50lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Wahoo, Dorado, Roosterfish, Amberjack, Barracuda
8500	18-22lb	30-50lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Wahoo, Dorado, Roosterfish, Amberjack, Barracuda
9000	18-22lb	30-50lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Wahoo, Dorado, Roosterfish, Amberjack, Barracuda
9500	20-25lb	30-50lb	Medium inshore fishing Medium offshore saltwater fishing	Wahoo, Dorado, Roosterfish, Amberjack, Barracuda
10,000	20-25lb	30-60lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
10,500	22-27lb	30-60lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
12,000	28lb+	30-60lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
14,000	28lb+	30-60lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
16,000	32lb+	40-70lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
18,000	36lb+	40-70lb	Medium or heavy inshore and offshore saltwater	Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Shark
20,000	40lb+	50-80lb	Heavy offshore saltwater fishing	Large Tuna, Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Tarpon
25,000	50lb+	50-80lb	Heavy offshore saltwater fishing	Large Tuna, Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Tarpon
30,000	60lb+	80-100lb	Heavy offshore saltwater fishing	Large Tuna, Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Tarpon

What Is The Best Size Spinning Reel For Bass Fishing

Reel Size	Mono Strength	Braid Strength
2000	4-6lb	5-10lb
2500	5-8lb	5-12lb
3000	6-10lb	6-14lb
3500	6-10lb	6-14lb

Spinning reel sizes for catching Bass can range from 2000 to 3500, depending on the angler’s fishing techniques: Finesse fishing, for example, requires a 2000 size spinning reel, which is perfect for ultralight lures. However, heavier applications at which crankbaits are used need larger reel sizes, such as a 3000 or 3500.  The range of 2500-3000 is the sweet spot for many anglers, especially for those just starting bass fishing with spinning reels. One of the things we love about Bass is that they won’t run as long as other game fish. As a result, you won’t always need a large-sized spinning reel to target large Bass. A 2000 spinning reel can wrestle with an 8-pound bass without any troubles, and a 3000 spinning reel can hold enough line to deal with Bass of most sizes. In certain circumstances, anglers can use a 4000 reel for bass fishing, however. It is when they are catching a trophy size bass and in unfavorable conditions.

Check out our recommendations of the top spinning reel for bass fishing

What Size Reel Should You Use For Surf Fishing, Saltwater?

Because surf fishing involves greater casting distance, spinning reels are generally of large size to provide greater line capacity. There is also a wide range of fish, from small Whiting flounder to even sharks, so there’s no single recommendation for the best surf fishing reel size.  For surf fishing, anglers usually have medium to large spinning reels in their arsenal. The most common choice is the 5000 size reel, but many situations call for up to 20,000 size reel.  On rare occasions, when the surf is down at the shore break, you can use a 3000. This small size can be your last resort if you don’t have anything else in your tackle box. Yet, it feels pretty small in normal conditions, and the casting distance is likely to suffer.  A 5000 size spinning reel covers a broad spectrum of fish, such as bluefish and stripers, and remains effective when monster fish take the bait. This size can withstand up to 30+ pounds of fish.  Shimano VanFord C5000XG Besides, this size offers you greater spool capacity and works effectively with a longer rod, which is all you need to get past that “third breaker”.  For bigger fish, the choice can run from 7000 to 20,000. While a larger size provides greater casting distance and more control over large fish, it can cause fatigue. On the other hand, a 5000 size spinning reel can give you a good start for beginners.

See our detailed recommendations and reviews for the most effective saltwater spinning reels

What Size Reel Should You Use For Trout Fishing?

Trout are by no means giant fish, so you don’t need a large reel and huge drag capacity. This species generally weighs from 2 to 8 pounds. For this reason, most spinning reels for catching trout are from 1000 to 2500, and the size 3000 and up would be overkill.  Most trout fishing demands an ultralight setup. Here is a basic guideline for you to put together a trout combo that works:

• Reel size: 1000 to 2500
• Rod: ultralight power rating
• Line: 2-6lb or 6-10lb monofilament

The size 1000 typically works best with a light fishing line. Anglers usually pair it with a monofilament line of 2-6lb. For large trout, a 2500 spinning reel might be the way to go. It is best used with a 6-10lb line breaking strain. Shimano Alivio 1000 While choosing a spinning reel for trout, it pays to consider the body of water you’re going to fish. Catching trout in small water areas necessitates a more finesse style setup than fishing in large rivers.  If it’s just small rivers, there is no need to go over the 1000 size, and a 6-foot rod is a good choice in this situation. Meanwhile, fishing trout in large rivers means you need a larger reel and a rod with a heavier line.

See also: Top 5 reels for trout fishing!

What Size Reel For Beginners?

There is no spinning reel size for “beginners”. As mentioned, you should factor in where you’re going to fish and the species you’re targeting.  Often, people rely on the fishing line size to choose the right spinning reel size. For example, jigging smallmouth bass or walleye often need an average line strength of 8lb. So it is recommended to go for a spinning reel size that matches this rating.  So if you’re new to a spinning reel, you can take a look at our spinning reel size charts to determine the right choice for you.  It is worth mentioning that bigger reels are often harder to handle. In addition, they hold more lines and involve heavier casting techniques, making them not the right choice for new anglers. While bigger reels are made for catching bigger fish, that doesn’t mean you should select the largest option you can find. Weight increases with size, which can affect how long you can put up your fights.

FAQs

Conclusion 

Understanding spinning reel sizes might seem intimidating at first. Yet, with all the information presented here and a conversation with a pro at your local tackle shop, you can make your decision with more confidence.  The golden rule is small reels for small fish and big reels for big fish (although some exceptions). Your reel size has an intricate link with the line strength, spool capacity, and the fish species you’re going to catch. While some new anglers often overlook this factor, pinpointing how big the reel should be can significantly contribute to a successful catch. Further reading: Can you use braided line for spinning reels? How much line to put on a spinning reel?