The best budget and top-end reels for ultralight

When fishing with such an interesting and catchy tackle as an ultralight spinning rod, choosing the right reel is of great importance.
When choosing, take into account such characteristics as its type, weight and size, location and fineness of adjustment of the clutch, gear ratio, laying of the fishing line (cord), location and number of bearings, quality and size of the spool. In addition, the ease of use of the tackle is influenced by the height of the leg that attaches the reel to the rod, the shape and material of the handle.

Type

When fishing with ultralight tackle, two types of spinning reels are used:

• multiplier;
• inertialess.

Multiplier reels - sensitive, reliable and easy to use - are used in ultralight quite rarely due to the high cost of their models.
For this reason, when fishing with ultra-light baits, most anglers - from beginners to professionals and athletes - use spinning reels ("meat grinders").

Weight and balance

In light and sensitive ultralight gear, it is very important not to disturb its balance and sensitivity. To do this, choose coils weighing no more than 220 grams . The balance of the tackle is checked as follows:

• The coil is installed in a clamp (holder) on the handle of the form and securely fixed.
• The index finger of the right hand is placed under the front of the reel foot, clamped in the reel seat.
• The form is carefully lifted on the finger, insuring it with the left hand from falling and damage.
• If the blank is suspended almost parallel to the surface of the earth, the tackle is balanced and the reel is well selected for weight. If the blank tilts towards the butt of the handle or the tip of the blank, then the balance of the tackle is upset. In the first case, you need to choose a reel with less weight, in the second - with more.

The cost of the main reel options for ultralight

If you choose a reel based on price, then you should take into account all its advantages and disadvantages when the question arises of how much such a mechanism costs. After all, many popular models are adapted only for a certain area of ​​application, which can very often become a hindering disadvantage. The average price of all the above options is shown in the table, which will allow you to think more carefully about your upcoming purchase.

Size

For ultralight fishing, reels with the following line capacity (size) are used:

• 1000;
• 1500;
• 2000.

At the same time, reels with a line capacity of 1000-1500 are used when fishing with very thin (0.04-0.06 mm) braided cords using nanojig blanks with a test weight of 0.5 to 5 grams.
Reels size 2000 are used in fishing with monofilaments with a cross-section of 0.12-0.16 mm and braided cords with a thickness of 0.08-0.1 mm.

Reels of size 2500 and above are already used in fishing with heavier gear and bait.
Using them in ultralight fishing unreasonably makes the gear heavier and makes fishing uncomfortable. On a note! The size (line capacity) of the reel is deciphered as follows: size “2000” means that the spool holds 100 meters of monofilament (cord) with a cross-section of 0.20 mm.

Clutch type

In ultralight fishing, reels with a front-mounted friction brake are used. The friction clutch must be reliable and have sufficiently fine adjustment.
The clutch adjustment should rotate comfortably and easily, and have a special gasket that prevents water from penetrating into the bobbin space.

Important! The friction brake should ensure uniform line release when the fish jerks or pulls. Therefore, the clutch, configured for a certain force of line retraction, should rotate evenly without any, even the most insignificant, braking or jamming.

What kind of coil is needed?

It is quite natural that not every reel is suitable for an ultralight fishing rod. Not a single fisherman would even think of installing a heavy reel on such gear, thereby losing the main distinctive quality - the lightness of the spinning rod.

Quite predictably, if the tackle is unbalanced, fatigue and discomfort in the arm muscles will very soon occur. Such fishing will not bring proper pleasure. Therefore, when choosing a reel, you should carefully consider the choice.

Criterias of choice:

Weight

The reel should be purchased together with the spinning rod. In order for the tackle to be as harmonious and sensitive as possible, it is necessary to select small and light reels. We also remember about balance.

To check the center of gravity, you need to install the coil, and then we observe, the closer it is to the coil leg, the better.

The weight of this mechanism, offered on the market on a fairly impressive scale, has been reduced by manufacturers in the following ways:

1. The use of fairly expensive and lightweight materials.
2. Using the cheapest raw materials available to everyone.

However, the latter should be treated with caution. You can't count on long-term operation of the parts.

For beginners, the following data will help when choosing the weight of the reel:

1. Spinning rod test up to 3.5 g - select a reel weighing up to 160 g.
2. Test up to five grams - we use a mechanism weighing up to 190 g.
3. Test rods up to seven grams - it is recommended to take a rod weighing up to 210 g.

Spool

A size of 1000 to 2000 would be quite acceptable. If you plan to go fishing for large fish, you can take 2500. Based on the material of the spool, it is recommended to take graphite, since they are quite light and will last for a long time.

But you should be careful with metal ones, they will add extra weight to the coil. Their main advantage is durability. In expensive reel models, spools come in several sizes, and sometimes even from different materials.

There should be no defects on the spool, otherwise the line may be rubbed off, which will lead to further rupture.

Friction brake

The friction clutch relieves the load at the right time and prevents the tackle from breaking. Therefore, we also do not discount this criterion. We turn our attention to the braking force of the mechanism and sticking.

The braking force indicator directly depends on the rod test and the breaking load of the fishing line. In ultralight, coils that contain parameters from two to four kilograms are most often used.

It won’t be difficult to understand which model you need. Let’s take, for example, a value of 3 kg, at which a fully tightened clutch will be able to hold the spool up to a mass of three kilograms.

If this mass begins to increase, then the spool will begin to rotate, and thus save the tackle from critical load. It is worth remembering that in inexpensive reels the jerk response leaves much to be desired.

It works each time with some delay, and therefore mass gatherings of fish and line breaks will be constant companions of the thrifty fisherman. Excessive jerking can damage not only the reel mechanism, but also the rod itself.

More expensive models from well-known companies provide devices with smooth and fairly fast response. Experts recommend bypassing the rear brake and opting for the front friction brake.

Line guide bracket

Bearings must be installed on the bracket, since it wears out quickly with frequent casting. It is recommended to opt for thick staples, as they guide the line onto the staple much better.

You should be very careful when using them, since in case of impacts of medium force, you can bend this bracket and it will lose all its advantages. The presence of a bearing on the roller will be a big plus, because a jammed roller will wear out too quickly.

The boxes almost always indicate the location of the bearings. We check that the fishing line in the video does not move from side to side, but sits like a glove. A good roller can also perform one more, far from superfluous function - to help straighten a twisted fishing line.

Line laying

Since ultralight fishing uses very thin cords and monofilaments, their placement with a reel must be of the highest quality. There should be no dips or obliquely wound turns. The fishing line or cord must be wound perfectly, “turn to turn.”

Poor laying of the cord or fishing line with a reel can lead to the fact that when winding, the upper turns will fall under the lower ones and the next time you cast, the loops will be dropped and a “beard” will form. It will be almost impossible to untangle a tangled, wet thin cord or monofilament line - the knots on it are very quickly tightened, untying which will take a very long time and injure the cord (when untying, you will have to use a thin needle or the point of a hook).

The uniformity and quality of laying is regulated using a mechanism such as an “endless screw”, as well as by placing additional washers under the spool.

On a note. When purchasing a reel, the quality of its line laying can be visually assessed by how evenly, without braking, jamming and obvious stops, the reel spool makes reciprocating movements.

Number and location of bearings

An inertia-free reel for ultralight fishing must have at least 4 bearings (3 ball and 1 roller) located:

• in the main pair mechanism - on the axes of rotation of the drive gear and driven worm gear;
• in the line laying mechanism - in the line laying roller;
• in the reverse stop mechanism there is an overrunning clutch.

More expensive and high-quality models are equipped with bearings in the friction brake mechanism and handle knob

Multiplier reel for ultralight

Choosing a budget multiplier reel for fishing with bait weighing up to 5 g is, perhaps, an even more difficult task than the corresponding casting rod, because in the latter case we can convert an ordinary spinning rod into a multiplier, which, of course, cannot be done with a spinning rod. Let's look at the essence of this problem and possible solutions to it.

When fishing with a multiplier, especially with light baits, the weight of the spool plays a huge role (photo 1). The lighter the multiplier spool, the lighter baits can be cast with this reel, all other things being equal. There is nothing surprising here, because in order to make the spool rotate, it is necessary to exert a certain force on it, and the smaller the mass of the spool itself, the less weight of the bait will be needed to set it in motion. To fish with a casting kit for ultra-light baits, it is necessary that the spool is shallow and its weight does not exceed 10 g, otherwise we will never get away from the casting range, which is different from the concept of “under your feet”. Of course, when using a flexible semi-parabolic rod with a weight of up to 7 g, you can throw 5-gram baits with a heavier spool, but a 3-gram jig head won’t really fly anywhere. Yes, and “noodle” rods are not suitable for every fishing method, and if, for example, you want to drive small minnow-class wobblers with jerk wiring, you will, of course, need a stiffer rod and a lighter spool. Such spools are available on the products of three pillars of the multi-building industry - Shimano, Daiwa and Abu Garcia. Some reels from these manufacturers, specifically designed for fishing with light and ultra-light baits, are already equipped with lightweight spools as standard, while others, designed for casting heavier baits, have such spools sold separately. However, the reels of the companies listed above cannot be called budget ones; for multipliers from other manufacturers, lightweight spools, unfortunately, for one reason or another are not produced either by the companies themselves or by all sorts of companies involved in multiplier tuning. From the current situation, besides buying branded products that not everyone can afford, I see two ways out. Firstly, perhaps some young company producing fishing tackle, in order to break into the world market and compete with more eminent comrades, will someday take up this issue and release inexpensive lightweight spools for their reels, reducing their cost due to production in countries of mainland East Asia. This option is, in principle, possible, but so far, either due to lack of demand, or for some other reason, this has not happened. And secondly, you can get a UL multiplier if some inexpensive reel turns out to be compatible with lightweight spools produced for the three whales mentioned above. Let’s talk about the second case using the example of the Yinglaite YLT 100L reel (photo 2) or, as this reel has already been popularly dubbed, the “red Chinese” (hereinafter referred to as KK). First, let's look at the general characteristics. KK is a low-profile baitcasting reel with a gear ratio of 6.3:1, weighing about 200 g and a line capacity of 120 m of nylon monofilament with a diameter of 0.28 mm. The gear ratio of 6.3:1 makes it somewhat of an all-rounder with a slight bias towards jigging, and 10 ball and 1 roller bearings provide, if not ideal, then quite acceptable movement. The body and side covers are made of graphite, which, however, is not surprising considering the price of this reel. In this case, the carbon fiber body even plays into the hands, because it reduces the total weight of the multiplier, and the loads to which the tackle is subjected when using ultra-light baits are unlikely to damage the graphite. It is also worth noting that this reel is available for both left (model YLT 100L) and right hand (model YLT 100R), and this must be remembered when purchasing in order to avoid misunderstandings. Now about the spool in more detail, because it was its appearance and some technical features that at one time made me think about the possibility of using this reel for fishing with ultra-light baits. So, the spool in the CC has a short axis, on which there is a small notch located not far from the pin. It is into this that the rod is inserted, onto which the cover of the axial brake regulator presses, providing the spool with the necessary braking (photo 3). The spool has a V-shaped profile and two rows of perforations. To find out the weight, carefully remove the spool from the multiplier body and place it on the platform of high-precision electronic scales (photo 4). So, the spool weighs 18.3 g. The result, in principle, is not bad, but it is still too much for casting light baits. With the original KK spool it will work well with weights from 9 g. Now let’s measure the diameter. The electronic caliper shows a value of 34.02 mm (photo 5). This size can be considered very universal, suitable both for fishing with light baits and for casting all kinds of spinners and wobblers of an above-average weight category.

But the main thing is not this, but the fact that this reel is absolutely compatible with 34 mm spools, which are used in many models of low-profile multipliers from Daiwa, for example, such as Steez 103, T3, T3-SV, T3-MX, TD -Z103/105, Ryoga 1016 and some others. Consequently, lightweight tuning spools designed for these multipliers are perfect for the YLT 100L. There are at least half a dozen different lightweight spools that are suitable for our purposes, but most of all I liked the products from the F40 Studio company, which allow you to throw the lightest (by casting standards, of course) baits at a distance comparable to the casting distance spinning coil.

In the F40 Studio model range there are two spools that are suitable for the CC - these are F40PE34S and F40PE34SS. Each of them comes in a durable metal container with a glass lid protected by a special protrusion, which reliably protects the spool from any mechanical influences during transportation. On the side of the container the spool model is indicated, which baitcasting reels it is compatible with, as well as its line capacity, taking into account the winding of PE braided lines (photo 6). These spools, having the same diameter, differ slightly in depth and weight. The abbreviation S in this case stands for shallow (small), SS - super shallow (very small). According to the manufacturer, the F40PE34SS spool holds 100 meters of PE cord with a diameter of 0.6 according to Japanese numbering, F40PE34S - 150 meters of PE cord with a diameter of 0.6 according to Japanese numbering (0.128 mm). In principle, when fishing with the YLT 100L, I used the F40PE34SS spool, but if you do not have experience in fishing with casting gear with UL class baits, then it is better to take the F40PE34S spool. The fact is that, as a rule, the actual diameter of Japanese braided fishing lines is slightly higher than stated, as a result of which about 70 meters of cord with a diameter of 0.6 will actually fit on a super-small spool. As for thicker cords, for example, with a diameter of 0.8–1.0 (0.148–0.165 mm, respectively), the use of which is more preferable at the initial stages, here the depth of the F40PE34SS spool will be small, and for winding the same 70 m, the only possible option is a spool F40PE34S, on which, in principle, a thinner braid can be wound in the future, albeit in slightly larger quantities. Now we move on to control weighing (photo 7). So, the weight of the F40PE34SS with bearing is 9.8 g. Add here 1.5–2 g of braided fishing line, and we get a spool that, when installed on a branded reel or, as in this case, on a KK, makes it possible to cast baits weighing from 2.5 g.

Particularly noteworthy when viewing the F40 Studio product is the spool inductor. Here, as in many other tuned spools, it is motionless. This was done in order to reduce the weight of the spool as much as possible, if not due to the inductor, then due to its return mechanism. By the way, the inductor there has also undergone some changes, as evidenced by the circle of perforations on the bottom. Of course, it would be possible to “perforate” the side edges of the inductor, but this would significantly reduce the strength of the eddy currents arising in it, and as a result we would be left with virtually no magnetic braking system. The plate connecting the spool rim with its axis is also equipped with perforations, albeit larger ones, which not only makes it possible to reduce the final weight of the product, but also indicates the strength of the material from which it is made. It should also be noted that the spools are perfectly centered, which contributes to their uniform rotation during casting and the start of movement from the slightest push (photo 8).

Initially, all F40 spools are equipped with a ball bearing mounted on the axle. The bearing is not an ordinary steel one, but a hybrid one, ABEC 7 accuracy class, produced by the Japanese company Boca. If you come across a spool from another manufacturer, where the bearing is not installed on the axle, then when ordering you should clearly know its size, which in this case is 5 × 11 × 4, i.e. you will need a bearing with an internal diameter of 5 mm, external diameter 11 mm and width 4 mm. At the same time, I would strongly advise against removing the metal or rubber round plates located on the sides, the so-called anthers, from such a bearing. The fact is that during fishing, especially in windy weather, microparticles of sand and all kinds of other dust consisting of solid components can get between the spool and the reel body, settling on the bearing balls. At the same time, microcracks form on the surface of the rotating elements, which significantly shortens the service life of the bearings. And although with the sides removed the spool rotates a little longer, this does not affect the casting distance in any way, since the duration of the spool rotation is much shorter for a multiplier configured for “boredless” casting. And even in those cases when a tuned spool for a reel comes with an open bearing, I always try to choose suitable boots for it in order to maximize its service life (photo 9).

For better casting of baits, it is advisable to wash the steel bearings and lubricate them with a special “quick” lubricant. The fact is that bearing manufacturers often lubricate them with thick, preservative grease, which, especially in the initial stages, sharply reduces casting range. This procedure, at first glance, may not seem entirely simple, but with some skill and the availability of special devices, you can perform it, as they say, with your eyes closed. So, our circle of interests includes 2 ball bearings: located on the spool axis, next to the pin, and located in the side cover, next to the magnetic brake. Let's start with the first one. In order to remove it from the spool axis, we will have to press out the pin. To do this, it is best to use a special device, for example, Spool Bearing Remover Type S from Hedgehog Studio (photo 10).

This device for removing the bearing from the spool axis is very simple. It consists of a rectangular metal plate with an oval slot in the middle, and two holes on its sides. A cross-shaped pin is screwed into one of them, with a thread, one of the ends of which is equipped with a thin metal rod, and the other has a small recess. The other hole is much smaller in diameter, without threads and with a small slot above it. The method for pressing out a pin with this device is as follows. Initially, we put the “removal pin” on the spool axle from the bearing side so that one half of the pin is in a narrow hole with a slot above it, while the other protrudes into the central oval. After this, we insert the pin with the notch side into the threaded hole and rotate it until the notch begins to press on the pin. After this, we continue to turn the pin, albeit more slowly, thereby squeezing out the pin until the notch reaches the spool axis. After this, we unscrew the pin, insert it with the other side with a thin metal rod and continue twisting until the pin completely comes out of the spool axis. Of course, it would be possible to immediately place the pin on the side with the metal rod, but if the pin is pressed in too hard, it may bend, so it’s better not to take any unnecessary risks. In some multipliers, the pin has not a rectangular, but a conical shape, as does the hole for it in the spool axis, so it is better to immediately make the appropriate marks on the spool axis, for example, with a waterproof marker, and when installing the pin, place it in exactly the same way as it was installed initially (photos 11–13). Pressing a pin in is even easier than removing it. To do this, we insert a pin into the corresponding hole in the spool axis, put the Spool Bearing Remover on it, screw the pin into it so that the side with the notch is located in the same place as the pin inserted into the spool axis. After this, we still rotate the pin until it first reaches the pin, and then presses it into the spool axis. Here it is necessary to ensure that the pin passes evenly through the axis, and its protruding parts are approximately the same (photo 14, 15). If you twist the pin and the pin passes through the axis further than the middle, you just need to reinstall the device on the other side and finish what you started. Of course, it would be possible to remove the pin from the spool axis using tools not intended for this purpose, for example, pliers, but in this case there is a very high probability of flattening or deforming the pin itself, as well as scratching or even bending the spool axis, which can make the latter absolutely unusable for further fishing. Therefore, after several not entirely successful attempts, I finally decided to purchase this device. Yes, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, but the damage from homemade pin removal can be significantly greater, so in this case, as they say, the game is worth the candle. However, given that the Spool Bearing Remover is usually used no more than a few times a year, you can buy it together with friends, which will significantly reduce costs and give everyone the opportunity to use this device as needed.

Removing the bearing from the side cover is much easier. To do this, we need a thin sewing needle and a nail with a wide head, slightly bent near the tip. Initially, you need to pry the locking tetrahedral spring with a needle and carefully remove it. This must be done very carefully, constantly holding the spring with your finger, because one wrong move and it will fly off somewhere behind the closet with a quiet farewell whistle, and only luck will help you find it. Then, using a curved nail, you need to pry the bearing from below through the central hole, and, using a little force, remove it (photo 16, 17). The principle of flushing both bearings is absolutely no different.

So, in order to wash a ball bearing, you must first disassemble it. For these purposes we will use the same thin sewing needle. Initially, we need to pry off the retaining ring that secures the side cover. It is located under the very edge of the outer lip of the bearing. The ring is not solid, and to remove it we pry one of its edges with a needle, after which we move the needle along the edge of the bearing, gradually pulling the stopper out of the groove. Then, using the point of a needle, pry up the side cover near the inner hole of the bearing and remove it. It remains to repeat the same sequence of actions in relation to the second side cover (photo 18, 19). That's it - the bearing is exposed and is now completely ready for a bath. To be continued…

Spool

An ultralight reel must have a spool that meets the following requirements:

• spool material – aluminum or duralumin;
• profile – cone, reverse cone;
• diameter of the working part – 40-45mm.

In addition, the spool must have a wear-resistant edge coated with titanium nitride alloy, a soft and non-traumatic fishing line or braided cord, and a silicone clip. For fishing with monofilament, the reel package should include a graphite (plastic) spool along with a metal spool.

Smooth ride

The quality of play of the bait and the uniformity of winding of the fishing line on the spool are influenced by such characteristics of a spinning inertia-free reel as the smoothness of its movement. It depends on the quality and quantity of bearings, the reliability of the main pair mechanism, and the presence of lubricant in it:

• So, if the reel is equipped with reliable ball bearings, has a high-quality and well-lubricated transmission mechanism, its movement will be smooth and easy, thanks to which the angler will be able to perform different speed retrieves and will be able to feel even the weakest poke or grip of a predator in time.
• A reel with low-quality and short-lived bearings, a main pair mechanism, or with poor or insufficient lubrication will have difficulty moving, often with slowdowns and jamming . This will all affect the quality of the wiring, the laying of the fishing line and, subsequently, the comfort and result of fishing.

The best reels for light spinning

Shimano Nasci

This model is considered the number 1 tackle for light spinning fishing.
Good for beginners. It's inexpensive. Available with different types of spools - classic and small-profile. Virtually no backlash. Fishermen especially note its smooth motion.

Ryobi Ecusima

One of the most popular models among fans of light spinning fishing. Has little weight. Considered a budget model. It lays the braided line well and reliably, the smooth and sensitive stroke allows the use of fishing line of the smallest diameters.

Shimano Cardiff 301A

A very convenient multiplier, designed for the left hand.
Contains 5 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing.

The lightness of the model is ensured by the aluminum body.

Salmo Elite TROLL 7

Another cartoon whose body is made using graphite and plastic.
It has a particularly smooth ride.

Line laying roller and bow

The line laying mechanism (shackle and roller) of an ultralight meat grinder must have the following characteristics:

• The bow must be made of strong, but at the same time flexible stainless wire - this is necessary so that when the form is hit or dropped, the bow bends and does not break.
• The roller of the line laying mechanism must be equipped with a high-quality ball bearing. The working surface of the roller must be coated with titanium nitride alloy.
• The opening and latching of the line handler's bow must be ensured by a reliable mechanism that prevents spontaneous closing of the bow during casting. This parameter is checked when purchasing a reel in a store: to do this, by opening the line handle, the reel is shaken sharply several times, simulating a sharp cast. In high-quality models, the bail will not close even with very strong shaking; in low-quality models, it will snap off at the first sharp cast, leading in a real situation to the “shooting” of the bait or damage to the blank.

Stinger Phantom XW

I purchased this reel at one time as a backup for the Dive Surtate. On multi-day fishing trips in remote areas, many things can happen - for example, breakage or falling into the water. Often repairs in the field are simply impossible, so it is useful to be on the safe side and have a spare unit. So the Phantom appeared in my bag as a spare, especially since it has protection against water - it can painlessly withstand being under water when falling, say, into a river for up to three minutes.

Once it turned out that for fishing in a specific area a thin line was required, and it was on the Stinger. I didn’t want to rewind the cord on “Dive” - so a “replacement player” entered the field. To say that I was surprised by his work is an understatement. Casting, laying, friction, precise work when fixing the bow - everything was good. I went fishing and caught some nice fish. On the next fishing trip, I decided to fish with the Phantom again - I was just wondering how much resource this very budget model would have. But “Stinger” went through almost the entire season, courageously fulfilling all the tasks that I set for it (photo 4) .

Stinger Phantom XW Specifications:

• turned handle
• gear ratio 5.2:1;
• waterproof bearings 6+1;
• friction pull 4 kg;
• timber capacity 0.15 mm – 180 m; 0.2 mm – 100 m.

By the way, when I pick up the Stinger Phantom, I begin to guess who the “dad” of the Innova Ultralight was. Because I knew about “mother” for a long time when I started fishing with an Innova 2500 reel on a jig.

Reel handle

The ease of use of the reel is influenced by such characteristics of the reel as the strength of the handle, its angle relative to the axis of rotation of the drive gear, the size and size of the knob, and the presence of a bearing or bushing inside it. The most convenient reel should have the following indicators of these characteristics:

• The angle between the axis of rotation of the handle and the part extending from it should be more than 90 0 - thanks to this, when rotating the handle, the angler does not cling to the wire handle with his fingers.
• The handle should be made of durable and lightweight alloy or graphite.
• For convenience, the handle should be equipped with a tip, by which the angler will rotate it - a knob. The knob should be made of porous soft rubber, light wood and equipped with a small ball bearing.

Rating of the top 3 budget ultralight reels (cost up to 5,000 rubles)

Ryobi Ecusima 1000 VI

Characteristics:

• Spool line capacity: 145 meters of 0.205 mm monofilament.
• Weight: 262 gr.
• Number of bearings: 5 pcs. (4 ball + 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 2.5 kg.
• Gear ratio: 5.1:1.
• Number and material of spools: 2 spools (plastic and metal).

Advantages:

• smooth ride;
• friction clutch with fine tuning;
• durable metal case;
• good line laying.

Flaws:

• noticeable weight for ultralight gear;
• Repositioning the handle requires the use of a special tool.

Daiwa REVROS E 1500 A

Characteristics:

• Spool line capacity: 140 meters of line with a cross section of 0.2 mm.
• Weight: 225 gr.
• Number of bearings: 4 pcs. (3 ball and 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 2 kg.
• Gear ratio: 4.8:1.
• Number and material of spools: The package includes one metal spool, no graphite spare spool.

Advantages:

• light weight, high-quality laying of the cord (line);
• reliable and finely adjustable friction clutch.

Flaws:

• a large number of Chinese and Vietnamese fakes.

Shimno Catana 2000SFB

Characteristics:

• Spool line capacity: 270 meters of 0.20 mm monofilament.
• Weight: 290 gr.
• Number of bearings: 3 pcs. (2 ball + 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 3 kg.
• Gear ratio: 5.2:1.
• Number and material of spools: 2 spools (graphite and metal);

Advantages:

• easy and smooth running;
• large bobbin capacity;
• durable and reliable body.

Flaws:

• heavy weight;
• small number of bearings.

Top 5 budget reels for ultralight

• Daiwa Caprice 1500

: is a graphite body with a metal spool. The spool size is 1500. The rpm ratio is 4.7:1. The model is equipped with ABC bearings, which ensure durability of the internal mechanism due to a special anti-corrosion composition. Weight is 270 g.

• Daiwa Crossfire 1000 A

: light and durable model, adapted to work with the lightest baits. Spool size – 1000, front clutch, speed ratio – 4.9:1, weight – 145 g. Fishermen note the average winding of the fishing line and, as a result, the formation of loops, but the price is budget.

• Kosadaka Blaze 750

: The model is equipped with an instant reverse stopper, as well as an additional spool, which makes it possible to use fishing line of a different diameter. Weight is 184 g, gear ratio is 5.2:1. It is characterized as a high-quality fishing tackle with a good power reserve.

• Shimano Technium 1000 FB

: budget ultralight reel, weighing 210 g. It has a metal body and a deep spool. Well suited for long casts. The rpm ratio is 5.0:1. It is characterized by a slight twist of the fishing line, which makes it difficult to work with the thinnest types of it.

• Mitchell Microspin

: a miniature closed-type reel, therefore it is successfully used for fishing in thickets or grass. Pairs perfectly with rods equipped with guides. Weight – 163 g, rpm ratio – 4.4:1.

Top 3 rating from the expensive segment of ultralight reels (cost over 5,000 rubles)

Shimano Ultegra-12 1000

Characteristics:

• Spool capacity: 240 meters of PE cord;
• Weight: 180 gr.
• Number of bearings: 6 pcs. (5 ball + 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 3 kg.
• Gear ratio: 5.0:1.
• Number and material of spools: 1 metal spool.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• lightweight rotor;
• high-quality and reliable bearings;
• stylish and beautiful appearance.

Flaws:

• the need for annual maintenance;
• very high price.

Shimano Exage 1000 FD

Characteristics:

• Spool line capacity: 140 meters of 0.20 mm monofilament.
• Weight: 200 gr.
• Number of bearings: 5 pcs. (4 ball + 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 2 kg.
• Gear ratio: 5.0:1.
• Number and material of spools: 2 spools (graphite and aluminum).

Advantages:

• light weight;
• excellent laying of fishing line (cord);
• friction clutch with fine tuning;
• reinforced handle.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Shimano 17 Nasci 1000 (9100)

Characteristics:

• Spool line capacity: 90 meters of 0.25 mm monofilament.
• Weight: 215 gr.
• Number of bearings: 5 pcs. (4 ball + 1 roller).
• Clutch location: Front.
• Maximum load on the clutch: 3 kg.
• Gear ratio: 5.0:1.
• Number and material of spools: 1 metal spool.

Advantages:

• multi-stage clutch adjustment;
• smooth ride;
• ideal winding of fishing line (cord);
• reinforced handle;
• protection against moisture and dirt getting inside the case.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Top 5 mid-segment reels for ultralight

• Yoshi Onyx Infinit 2000

: ultralight reel from a Japanese manufacturer. It features smooth and silent running, as well as computer-controlled rotor adjustment. Spool size – 2000, weight – 266 g.

• Ryobi Ecusima 1000 VI

: Durable metal reel that lays down even the thinnest line well. Front clutch, maximum load – 2.5 kg. Weight – 262 g, rpm ratio – 5.1:1. To reinstall the handle, you will need a special tool. Otherwise, excellent tackle for ultra-light rods.

• Daiwa Revros E 1500 A

: a compact reel that is lightweight and has an easily adjustable drag. The internal mechanism consists of three ball and one roller bearings. The model weighs 225 g, the gear ratio is 4.8:1. There are a large number of Chinese counterfeits in stores.

• Shimno Catana 2000SFB

: ultralight reel in a reliable, durable housing. It features high timber capacity and smooth running. Weight is 290 g, coil capacity is 0.20 mm/270 m, rpm ratio is 5.2:1.

• Stinger Innova Ultralight 1003

: spinning carbon reel equipped with Silent Drive system. It is distinguished by its smooth running and even winding of the fishing line without overlaps. The weight of the model is 160 g, the maximum load thrust is 2.5 kg, the rotation ratio is 5.2:1.

Adviсe

To conclude the article, there are some useful tips on choosing and using ultralight reels:

• When purchasing a reel for a previously purchased fishing rod, experienced fishermen check the balancing of the gear by bringing the spinning rod with them . This technique will allow you to choose the most suitable reel for the form and avoid future trips to the store to replace a meat grinder that is not suitable for the weight;
• A large number of bearings (more than 10) is by no means a sign of a good reel. Very often, meat grinders with 4-5 high-quality bearings rotate softer and better than Chinese models, which have 2-3 times more low-quality and short-lived bearings;
• Check the fineness of adjustment of the friction brake as follows, loosen the brake by about 1/3, lower a small amount of cord (line) from the spool, close the line handle and, holding the cord, lift the reel 60-70 cm above the floor. With a high-quality and well-adjusted clutch, the reel will smoothly lower to the floor under its own weight. A poorly adjusted and poor-quality clutch is characterized by pauses and braking during lowering;
• In order to evenly and correctly wind the new cord (line) onto the spool, the reel with it is lowered into a container of water.;
• Even the highest quality reel is recommended to undergo annual maintenance : check the integrity and performance of the bearings, the main pair mechanism, the clutch, and possibly change the lubricant. You need to entrust this matter to professionals.

Rating of the best reels for ultralight

SHIMANO STRADIC CI4+ 1000 FB

Another representative of the Shimano company also deserves to be included in the rating, the characteristic features of which are their focus on dynamic ultralight and compliance with the highest requirements of the realities of fishing.

Unlike the old version of the ultralight reel, this model has a lightweight, more balanced G-Free body and a powerful, durable X-Ship gear mechanism. 160 grams of weight, coupled with excellent weight distribution, allows you to very accurately deliver the tackle to the desired entry point into the water. But the main advantage of an ultralight reel is the capacity of the spool: with such compact dimensions, the aluminum sleeve can accommodate up to 140 meters of 0.20 mm fishing line.

Advantages

good spool capacity;

lowest weight (160 grams);

convenience for small manipulations;

accuracy of the mechanism (no backlash);

increased reliability of components.

Flaws

• low maximum force on the clutch (3 kilograms).

Shimano Nasci C2000S

A wave of basic updates has once again reached the already outstanding Nasci series reels, adding a couple of new features to the existing functionality. Despite its modest technical indicators, this ultralight reel has acquired the reputation of the highest quality tackle of the past seasons, which is why it has gained incredible popularity among the world fishing community. There is plenty of evidence of this: in addition to complementary reviews on the forums, the Nasci C2000S has been covered more than once in periodicals and television magazines about fishing.

The main emphasis in the design of the reel was placed on accuracy of action and duration of operation. The massive body of the 222-gram reel has significantly increased its safety margin due to the use of fundamentally new technologies for processing parts. Four bearings (one of which is highly wear-resistant) on the rotating parts ensure smooth movement of the rotating parts, without any backlash or seating. You can talk a lot about this model, but the main message remains the same: this is one of the best reels for ultralight, worthy of being included in the overall rating.

Advantages

highest quality workmanship;

large margin of safety, guaranteed reliability;

smooth movement of the mechanism provided by four bearings;

good resistance of components to corrosion, salt water and mechanical stress.

Flaws

small bobbin capacity (105 meters of thread with a diameter of 0.16 millimeters);

low load capacity of the clutch (3 kilograms).

Daiwa Revros MX 1003

The abbreviation MX in the series name indicates that the coils are at the stage of maximum functional performance. If this is indeed the case, then a logical question arises: why is the clutch of the 1003 model so weak that it can only withstand two kilograms of load? However, for an ultralight this indicator is sufficient - this reel rarely has to fish out a large predator.

Be that as it may, the build quality of the Daiwa Revros MX 1003 is really pleasing. The mating parts fit together very well, do not give any play and generally evoke completely pleasant associations. The only limiting factor on the path to making a purchase may be the cost, which cannot be compared with opponents. Buyers (for the most part) do not want to spend a lot, especially if there is an equally good alternative on the market.