Freshwater Spinning Reels

The Shimano Stradic FM Spinning Reels boast an illustrious history with two decades of setting the bar for excellence. Shimano is famed for its fishing tackle innovation, and the Stradic FM lives up to this impressive reputation with cutting-edge technology, design, and features to excel in the water. Fresh and inshore saltwater anglers are sure to find a model to meet their goals, ready to provide reliable service.

The Stradic FM features trickle-down technologies from Shimano's flagship Stella reel. InfinityXross gear tooth design increases surface contact, spreads load out over a larger surface area, and enhances efficiency and durability.Working along with Hagane cold foraged gearing and MicroModule II, the gearing not only feels remarkable with every turn of the handle out of the box but continues to feel the same way for years of use to come.

IInfinity Drive technology provides unparalleled cranking power for even the toughest fights, while the Dura Cross Drag system yields ten times the felt drag life and ensures smoothness and durability. Shimano X-Protect technology further safeguards the Stradic, utilizing coatings and a unique labyrinth design to prevent water ingress, all while minimizing drag and effortlessly prolonging the reel's lifespan. The new Anti-Twist Fin adds an extra layer of protection, minimizing the space between the bail arm and roller.  This piece works to alleviate any slack line from wrapping around the spool and keep the line more elevated, ready to take a fast hookset. With additional technologies feature packing this reel for optimal performance, it is no wonder why this reel sits atop a true favorite among light tackle anglers, whether salt or fresh. Built ready to meet new challenges and accomplish the day, look to the Stradic FM to be your favorite option in your arsenal.

 Features:

With the Shimano Ultegra FD Spinning Reel experience the ultimate in smooth, powerful, and dependable. Packed with cutting-edge technology and top-tier features, this reel delivers an ultra-refined, friction-free reeling experience. The SilentDrive and MicroModule II gears provide unbeatable performance, while InfinityXross and InfinityDrive maximize power and durability. Upgrade your fishing game without breaking the bank!

Featuring corrosion-resistant bearings and X-Protect technology, this reel directs water away from key internal parts. The Anti-Twist Fin and Cross Carbon Drag ensure consistent line tension and powerful stopping capabilities, making it perfect for chasing any game fish. Don't miss out on this incredible value!

Features: 

• InfinityXross
• InfinityDrive
• Anti-Twist Fin
• HAGANE Gear
• X-Protect

The Daiwa Legalis LT body (light yet tough) is constructed from a carbon-based composite that is much lighter than conventional materials yet very durable. With a much greater strength to weight ratio, the reels are lighter and can be handled without fatigue over the long course of a full day’s fishing. The spool design features the Advanced Ballistic System or ABS. 

The oversize spool also holds more line and can exert more pressure on hooked gamefish. The Air Rotor and Air Bail are carbon composite designed lighter and stronger than conventional designs. Smoothness of operation is assured by 6 ball bearings and a roller bearing. 

• Carbon Light Material Housing - LT Concept
• ABS Spool (Advanced Ballistic System)
• Machined Aluminum Handle
• Air Rotor  and  Air Bail
• 6 Bearing System ( 5BB+1RB)

Daiwa BG MQ Spinning Reels are constructed with a one piece monocoque aluminum frame with rubber seals in key intrusion points to help keep it dry and protected from the elements. The waterproof Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD) system is engineered to give you a smooth wind, giving you the advantage in the fight against your fish.

Specs & Features

• MONOCOQUE (MQ) Aluminum Frame
• Rubber Seals Enclose Gearbox for Maximum Protection
• AIR ROTOR®
• AluminumJ-BRAID READY Spool
• DIGIGEAR™
• Waterproof Advanced Tournament Drag System (ATD)
• Waterproof Housing
• Machined Aluminum Screw-in Handle
• Individually Serial Numbered

The Shimano Vanford FA Spinning Reel incorporates advanced features from Shimano's top-of-the-line series, continuing the pursuit of reduced weight, lower start-up inertia, and increased sensitivity. The MGL Rotor at its core improves performance with smoothness and precision, making it ideal for finesse techniques and quick hook-setting. The CI4+ lightweight body minimizes inertia, allowing for instant control and precise lure manipulation and cadence adjustments tailored to the behavior of the fish.

With InfinityXross technology, the Vanford FA ensures efficient winding and seamless retrievals, essential for finesse fishing tactics. Infinity Drive technology further increases smoothness by reducing spool shaft contact, while the DuraCross drag system combines felt and carbon for unmatched durability under pressure, setting a new standard in drag performance. With Shimano's renowned HAGANE body and X-Protect for enhanced water resistance, the Vanford FA is not just a reel, but a precision tool.

Features:

• Infinity Drive for enhanced smoothness
• X-Protect for increased water resistance
• Cross Carbon Drag for superior drag performance
• S-Compact Body design for ergonomic handling
• HAGANE Body for durability and rigidity

The Daiwa Procyon LT is lighter by weight yet strong and rigid in the LT Concept. The body is constructed from Zaion, a “high density” carbon strain material that is 20 percent stronger and 50 percent lighter than traditional nylon and aluminum.

The True Carbon Body is reduced in size and weight, yet provides a rigid framework for the powerful gearing. The well-balanced Air Rotor is 15 percent lighter than conventional rotors yet just as strong.

ATD Drag System uses a new proprietary grease that enables the reel to apply smooth and consistent start up drag pressure from the first pull. The rigid machined aluminum handle smoothly transfers power to the stout Digigears. The Digigears are accurately cut from a strong light-weight cold-forged aluminum making for a silky smooth operation.

With 6 Ball Bearings and a roller bearing the reel is as smooth as silk. Sizes from 1000 to 4000. If you are in the market for a light, powerful spinning reel with smooth precise operation and lots of features look to Daiwa’s PROCYON LT. It’s state of the art reel design.

Shimano's state-of-the-art HAGANE Gear technology lies at the heart of the redesigned Shimano Sedona FJ Spinning Reel, providing long-lasting smoothness and durability for assured resilience. This advanced technology is sure to support your fishing needs, allowing you to experience reliable performance in challenging conditions and beyond.  In this model, they brought back the anti-reverse switch.  Our guess at Tackle Express is that some anglers missed the ability to "back-wind" while fighting a fish.  Back-winding is a method where you turn the handle the opposite directions instead of using the drag.  It takes practice so be careful not to get backlashes.  

Shimano's state-of-the-art HAGANE Gear technology lies at the heart of the redesigned Sedona FJ spinning reel. Incorporating HAGANE cold-forging technology into the Sedona FJ gives it a step up from other reels in its class and provides long-lasting smoothness and durability for assured resilience even after countless battles with your target species.

The Sedona FJ series now features Shimano's SilentDrive technology to remove unnecessary noise and vibration while creating a quieter and smoother reeling experience. Sedona FJ's enhanced spool design features Shimano's Propulsion Line Management System for increased casting performance, while G-Free Body technology shifts the reel's center of gravity closer to the rod for better balance and less fatigue during long days on the water.

For a higher level of performance, the Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel family is back for the attack whether that means freshwater or inshore applications. From speckled trout, redfish, and snook to bass, walleye, and trout, the Procyon AL offers anglers the perfect reel for the pursuit.

The Procyon AL is rich in its feature set. First, the reel series features an aluminum body that allows more less body and frame flex providing better support on the gears and bearings allowing increased torque and power while also allowing longevity to the gears. 

Another element of the series is DIGIGEAR technology, digitally cut to reduce weight, and considerably better gear meshing increase smoothness and gear wear.
Anglers will also find Daiwa's distinctive Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD) a benefit for setting the hook and fighting fish. 

Experience the revolutionary Daiwa Regal LT Spinning Reel, crafted with cutting-edge ZAION V super composite material. This lightweight and durable reel features the advanced Airdrive Rotor, offering superior rigidity and minimal flex even with high drag pressures. The screw-less design reduces weight by 15% and improves retrievals with a reduced drag inertia point, making it effortless to handle and perfect for any fishing situation.

Experience enhanced balance when paired with your preferred spinning rod, as the front-end rotor weight reduction maximizes your control and accuracy. The solid AIRDRIVE BAIL adds to the reel's rigidity, eliminating worries of flex or breakage, while the diverse range of 7 sizes caters to your specific angling needs.

Upgrade your fishing setup with the Daiwa Regal LT, where advanced technology meets top-tier performance. With prices ranging from $69.99 to $79.99, this reel is an investment in precision angling that's hard to beat. Elevate your fishing game with the Daiwa Regal LT today.

Features:

• ZAION V Body
• AIRDRIVE ROTOR
• AIRDRIVE BAIL(Solid)
• TOUGH DIGIGEAR
• Machined Aluminum Folding Handle
• ATD

The Shimano Nasci FD Spinning Reel blends cutting-edge performance with rugged durability, making it a top choice for both freshwater and light inshore anglers. Featuring Shimano’s Hagane Gear and CoreProtect technologies, the Nasci delivers smooth, powerful retrieves and enhanced water resistance without compromising the reel’s light, refined feel.

With a sleek, matte black finish and X-Ship technology for improved gear durability under load, the Nasci is built to handle hard-fighting fish with ease. Its broad size range makes it versatile enough for bass in lakes or redfish on the flats.

Key Features:

• Hagane Gear: Cold-forged for long-lasting smoothness and strength

• CoreProtect: Water-resistant design to keep performance reliable in wet conditions

• X-Ship Technology: Improved gear durability and cranking power

• G-Free Body: Shifts the center of gravity closer to your hand to reduce fatigue

• Wide Size Range: Ideal for everything from ultralight freshwater setups to saltwater finesse

Whether you're casting jigs for bass or working lures in the surf, the Shimano Nasci FD offers precision, power, and Shimano’s trusted engineering — all at a great value. 

Strength Meets Finesse. Engineered for All Conditions.

The Daiwa Fuego LT Spinning Reels impress with a lightweight and strong Zaion V carbon-fiber body, a step up from the nylon-based plastics typically seen in reels at this price. This exclusive 2023 design makes the Fuego stand out against the competition. Additionally, this innovative material choice results in a 3%-5% weight reduction.

Fuego also uses an airdrive Rotor that reduces quite a bit of weight. Daiwa also incorporated a solid Airdrive Bail versus a tubular design. The reason for that is the metal we’re using is very strong, rigid, and doesn’t bend—yet, it’s thinner and lighter. Our goal was to reduce the weight of the rotation, which reduces the weight of the reel as well. It also makes it easier to turn the handle.

Features:

Specifications:

The Shimano Twin Power FE Spinning Reels provide the perfect balance of performance and power for both expert and enthusiast anglers. Part of the Shimano CoreSolid lineup, this reel is designed to be rigid and durable, allowing for increased capabilities and enjoyment on the water. With carbon fiber reinforced CI4+ technology and aluminum construction, the Twin Power FE eliminates flex and play even under intense pressure.

The Infinity Drive and InfinityXCross technologies provide a smooth winding experience and efficient force distribution, while the InfinityLoop technology allows for precise line lay and improved casting distance. The DuraCross drag system offers enhanced performance and durability with its unique woven pattern and smooth pressure. Whether you're targeting freshwater or inshore species, the Twin Power FE is the perfect power finesse option to handle even the most rapid runs.

Features:

• CoreSolid Hybrid Body - Aluminum and CI4+
• Infinity Drive
• InfinityXcross
• InfinityLoop
• DuraCross Drag System
• Made in Japan

The Okuma Inspira ISX Spinning Reel features advanced diecast aluminum Torsion Control Armor (TCA) technology, enhancing torsion and flex resistance by up to 40%. Its double arm body design ensures precise internal alignment, resulting in a stronger, more efficient reel. Designed for anglers seeking durability and smooth performance, the Inspira ISX delivers reliable control and an exceptional fishing experience.

Pros

• Lightweight and Strong: At 7.1–10.1 oz, it’s notably light for its class (e.g., ISX-C5000XA feels like a 3500-size reel), with aluminum and C-40X carbon construction balancing strength and weight.
• Smooth Performance: 9 bearings and Flite Drive system deliver “butter-smooth” drag and retrieves, as noted in user reviews on Amazon and Reddit.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for freshwater (trout, bass, walleye) and inshore saltwater (redfish, snook), with sizes covering light to medium-heavy fishing needs.
• High Drag Power: Up to 24 lbs (4000/5000 sizes), competitive with higher-priced reels, ideal for larger fish.
• Corrosion Resistance: CFR and corrosion-resistant coatings make it durable for saltwater, with users reporting no issues after sand exposure (Amazon reviews).
• Braid-Ready Spool: Eliminates the need for backing, with a rubber band to prevent slippage, praised for clean line lay with braid (6lb braid performs well on ISX-20B).

Introducing a new level of light and tough performance to the workhorse Tatula series, the Daiwa Tatula MQ LT Spinning Reels leverages Daiwa’s industry-leading technologies to provide anglers with a superior compact spinning reel at an affordable price point. Built around a one-piece Monocoque Zaion V-Body housing a large DigiGear, the Tatula MQ LT Spinning Reels feature a highly rigid design that greatly reduces flex, increases strength, and delivers more cranking power than comparable spinning reels in the same size.

A machined-tough DigiGear ensures gear precision and rotational smoothness, while the updated Air Rotor and Air Bail provides the ultimate sensitivity, balanced retrieves, and maximum strength with minimal weight in a fishing reel. Complete with a machined aluminum screw-in handle and a soft-touch rubberized grip, the Daiwa Tatula MQ LT Spinning Reel instantly adds drag resistance when you set the hook with a smooth starting, ball-bearing supported, automatic tournament drag system.

Features:

- One-Piece Monocoque Zaion V-Body
- AirDrive Rotor & Bail
- Machined-Tough DigiGear
- Machined Aluminum Screw in Handle
- Ball Bearing Supported Automatic Tournament Drag