best Shimano spinning reels

Best Shimano Spinning Reels 2024 – Buyers Guide

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission.

With so many quality spinning reels on offer, just which are the best Shimano spinning reels available?

That’s what I am going to reveal here today…

Having done a lot of testing of their reels (plus owning several myself), I have put together a comprehensive list of what I feel are currently the best Shimano spinning reels.

This selection of reels will cover a wide range of specifications, prices, and functionality, so there should be something here for everyone.

Best Shimano Spinning Reels 2024

Shimano Sustain FJ
Shimano Sustain FJ
  • Best Shimano Spinning Reel of 2023
  • Gateway into Shimano's Premium Reels
  • Shimano Sustain FJ
Shimano Vanford
Shimano Vanford
  • Runner Up
  • Super Light and Smooth Reel
  • Shimano Vanford
Shimano Miravel
Shimano Miravel
  • Best Value for Money
  • Newly Introduced in 2022
  • Shimano Miravel

ModelComment
Shimano Sustain FJBest Overall Shimano Spinning Reel for 2024
Shimano VanfordLast Year’s Winner, still one of my favorites
Shimano Stella FKThe Ferrari of Shimano Spinning Reels
Shimano MiravelExcellent new spinning reel from Shimano
Shimano Stradic FLA real workhorse. Durable and reliable
Shimano Ultegra FCGreat mid-range Shimano spinning reel
Shimano NasciGreat Shimano Spinning Reel for around $100

Table of Contents


Shimano Sustain FJ

Shimano Sustain FJ
  • Best Shimano Spinning Reel for 2024

There is a new winner for the coveted award of the BEST Shimano spinning reel for 2024! And that goes to the excellent Shimano Sustain FJ spinning reel.

This reel has seriously impressed me. It is loaded with many of Shimano's premium components, and the result is a smooth operator that is light and packed with power when needed. 

Shimano created the Sustain FJ to be their gateway, leading into their high-end, premium spinning reels such as the Stella, Exsence, and Twin Power reels.

This is why it is such a great reel for the consumer, as it is Shimano’s full intention to impress the angler with a wide range of premium components and design concepts that Shimano uses on its top-level reels.

The aesthetics of the Sustain FJ are sublime, I actually think the online pictures do not do it justice, it looks even better in real. The matt black body looks stylish, it oozes quality. It also makes the gold accents really jump as well. 

The Sustain FJ is not just about the looks; it performs just as you’d want a premium fishing reel to perform. 

best shimano spinning reel

The reel is very smooth to use. The MGL rotor provides low inertia and the rotor takes barely any effort to start moving, as soon as it starts it just wants to keep on going. 

The Aluminum Hagane body on the Sustain FJ is light, and also really strong. There is no flex on this reel when under pressure, it really gives you confidence when you hook into a hard-fighting fish.

The Cross Carbon Drag system that Shimano uses is very effective, and with a maximum drag of 20lbs on the 2500 size Sustain FJ reel, you have plenty of stopping power in this reel.

The reason for the incredible all-round performance abilities of the Shimano Sustain FJ becomes more apparent when you see the wealth of premium technologies and design concepts used in this reel, as you will see below.

Reel features:

  • Hagane Body
  • Ci4+
  • Aero Wrap II
  • G-Free body
  • Cross Carbon Drag
  • Hagane Gear
  • Long Stroke Spool
  • MGL Rotor
  • Mocromodule II
  • One Piece Bail
  • Propulsion Line Management System
  • Rigid Support Drag
  • S-ARB Bearings
  • SilentDrive
  • Water Resistant Drag
  • X-Protect
  • X-Ship

Models and Sizes available:

  • SA 2500 HGFJ
  • SA C3000 HGFJ
  • SA 4000 XGFJ
  • SA C5000 XGFJ

Reel specs’:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):Retrieve Per Crank (in):
SA2500HGFJ6.0:1208+17.435
SAC3000HGFJ6.0:1208+17.435
SA4000XGFJ6.2:1248+19.340
SAC5000XGFJ6.2:1248+19.540

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Packed full of Shimano's high-end technologies at a more affordable price
  • Strong and powerful reel
  • Very durable
  • Light and responsive
  • Long casting distance 
  • Great for finesse fishing
  • Super-smooth performance
  • Stunning aesthetics 
Cons
  • No 1000-size reel available in the Sustain FJ range

If you are looking at buying more premium fishing equipment, and you’re not ready to pay the top dollar for expensive reels like the Stella, then the Shaimano Sustain FJ is the perfect solution. It is such a good reel, and in my opinion, is the best Shimano reel for the money.


Shimano Vanford

Shimano Vanford

The Shimano Vanford was last year's winner and was not far off the top spot again this year as well. A reel of quality design and packed full of premium Shimano technology, it is a reel that will help you sharpen and improve your fishing skills.

The Vanford is exceptionally light, so ideal for the finesse angler. It also packs a lot of power so if you want to target those harder-fighting fish with a reel you can rely on, this Vanford is a great option. I have used my Vanford a lot, and in my experience with this reel, I have been impressed with the all round performance it delivers.

Product Features:

  • Introduced into the Shimano spinning reel range in 2020
  • Replaced the Stradic Ci4+
  • Magnumlight (MGL) Rotor
  • Enhanced CI4+ Body
  • Hagane Gear
  • Micro Module II Gear
  • SilentDrive
  • Cross Carbon Drag (C3000-C5000 models)
  • X-Protect
  • X-Ship
  • G-Free Body
  • Long Stroke Spool
  • Propulsion Line Management System
  • Aero Wrap II
  • Water-Resistant Drag
  • One-Piece Bail
  • S A-RB Bearings
  • IPX8 water-resistant line roller and roller clutch

Shimano has made a big move in retiring the iconic Stradic Ci4+ reel and replacing it with the new Vanford spinning reel.

The only way they could do this is by making the Vanford even better, by upgrading the components and delivering improved performance.

Well, Shimano has delivered!

The Shimano Vanford has been built using a lot of Shimano’s latest high-end technologies that have trickled down from their Stella range.

best shimano spinning reels 2023

The result of this is a reel that runs incredibly smooth and fast.

Designed for finesse fishing, this reel is incredibly responsive and the subtle power it produces will give you even more of an edge when you do battle against the hard fighting fish.

The Hagane Micromodule Gear II, SilentDrive, and MGL rotor system all run in synergy to provide ultra-smooth performance.

The speed of the Shimano Vanford spinning reel is equally impressive. As soon as you twitch the handle you start reclaiming line at a rapid rate.

The Vanford is even lighter than the Ci4+ was, and the balance on the reel has been executed really well so you can flick lures all day with minimal fatigue.

I really like the T-bone-shaped handle, I personally find I have a lot more control over the reel when fighting a fish with this handle.

I also LOVE the aesthetics of this reel! The pictures online really do not do it justice, when I first saw it I was taken aback by the stunning looks it had. Not only is it a looker, but its performance matches its beauty as well.


Models and Sizes available:

  • VF500F (ideal for ice fishing)
  • VF1000F
  • VF2000HGF
  • VF2500HGF
  • VFC3000HGF
  • VF4000F
  • VFC5000XGF

Reel specs:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):
VF500F5.6:166+14.9
VF1000F5.1:177+15.3
VFC2000HGF6.1:177+15.3
VF2500HGF6.0:1207+16.3
VFC3000XGF6.4:1207+16.3
VF4000XGF6.2:1247+17.6
VFC5000XGF6.2:1247+17.8

Although the Ci4+ was an incredible reel, the Vanford is a legitimate upgrade and Shimano has really taken the bar to a new level in the mid-range spinning reel category with this reel.

Pros & Cons:

Pros
  • Light and strong
  • Ideal for finesse fishing
  • Very smooth operation
  • Super responsive
  • Built with a multitude of Shimano’s premium technologies
  • Very durable
  • Extra casting ability
  • A worthy replacement for the Ci4+
Cons
  • Cross Carbon Drag washers only available in 4000 and 5000-size reels 

Read my full Shimano Vanford review


Shimano Stella FK

Best Shimano Spinning Reels - Stella FK

The Stella FK is the pinnacle of Shimano’s light-spinning reel range.

Shimano has said that whenever they launch a new reel in the Stella range, their goal is to make it the best spinning reel that was ever made.

With this pursuit of perfection comes a lofty price tag, but the resulting Stella FK reel is an incredible piece of machinery that performs to the highest levels in every operational aspect.

Product Features:

  • Anti-twist fin
  • Ci4+
  • Duracross
  • Infinity Loop
  • Infinity Cross
  • Infinity Drive
  • Micro Module II
  • X Protect
  • SilentDrive
  • Hagane Gear
  • Hagane Body
  • X-Ship
  • G Free Body
  • Anti-Tangle Rotor
  • Long-stroke Spool
  • Extra-High Cast Rating
  • Shielded Anti-rust Bearings
  • High Crank Power Rating
  • 10-year warranty

Shimano has developed a new technology line for this amazing new Stella FK reel, which they have called ‘Infinity Evolution’.

The new InfinityXross technology in the FK reel extends the gear tooth horizontally to distribute any load across the gear tooth more evenly for enhanced gear durability.

InfinityDrive, which has been passed down from the larger saltwater SWC range, provides a lighter rotation and increased cranking power when under load.

Then there is Shimano’s new InfinityLoop technology, which extends the spool oscillation to produce a more consistent line lay for a perfect winding shape. The end result of this is a notable improvement in casting performance.

shimano stella fk

Another new feature on the Stella FK is the Anti-Twist Fin. This elastic polymer on the underside of the roller provides a superior line management system for the reel.

Existing premium technologies have also been improved on the Stella FK reel.

The Micro Module II with improved gear teeth and surface design has this FK running silky-smooth, and the X-protect design ensures that the Stella FK is well protected from the elements and gives it that longevity that will have the reel running to its optimal levels for many years.

Yes, the Shimano Stella FK spinning reel is an expensive piece of equipment.

But the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ is clearly evident here, as you are getting the results of all of Shimano’s knowledge, experience, and design and engineering expertise packed into this one reel.

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):Retrieve Per Crank (In)
STL1000FK5.1:17.0 lbs12+15.8 oz25
STL2500HGFK5.8:120.0 lbs12+17.4 oz34
STLC3000XGFK6.4:120.0 lbs12+17.4 oz37
STL4000XGFK6.2:124.0 lbs12+19.2 oz40
STLC5000XGFK6.2:124.0 lbs12+19.2 oz40

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • New Shimano technologies introduced for this reel
  • Light and strong
  • Improved performance levels
  • Very smooth operation
  • Strong drag system
  • Very strong and durable reel
  • Packed full of power
  • The best light spinning reel Shimano has made
Cons
  • The price. It's just not a practical option for most anglers

Shimano Miravel

Best Shimano Spinning Reels - Miravel

Shimano introduced the Miravel into its stable of spinning reels in 2022, and it was done so to fill a specific gap they had in their extensive range. 
 
The Miravel was brought in to target anglers that want to move up from the entry-level equipment they may have been using and to introduce them to a few of the more premium design features and technologies that Shimano provides.

Product features:

  • Versatile reel
  • Carbon-infused CI4+ body
  • Hagane gear
  • X-Ship
  • MagnumLite rotor
  • G-Free Body
  • Propulsion line management system
  • Silent Drive
  • CoreProtect water resistance
  • 5+1 bearings
  • Cross Carbon Drag

In terms of features, the Miravel has a lot to offer. It was introduced as Shimano’s entry-level Ci4+ spinning reel and is priced just above the Nasci FC, coming in at around $20 more.

It is because of the Ci4+ body that has enabled Shimano to provide a reel that costs less than $140, but also weighs in at around the 7.0oz mark (the 1000, 2500 and 3000 size reels weigh 6.2oz, 7.2oz, and 7.2oz respectively, the two larger sizes weigh more than 8oz).

The Miravel is part of Shimano’s MagnumLite series of spinning reels and comes with some of their premium technology, including the cold-forged HAGANE Gear, SilentDrive, and X-Ship.

best budget shimano spinning reel

One thing to note is that Shimano has not included a line roller bearing; instead, they have an alloy collar that spins around as the line rolls through it.

While a line roller bearing can be a potential point of failure (not something I have experienced I should add), it does provide a slightly smoother experience when retrieving the line.

But considering everything else you are getting in a sub-$140 reel, this is a small compromise and is definitely not something that many would even notice.

I purchased a Shimano Miravel when they came out (4000-size), and I have been very impressed with its performance and power. 

The reel is quite light, the carbon-infused CI4+ body really makes a noticeable difference to the Nasci for example. Although I am also a fan of the Nasci reel, the Miravel does feel like an upgrade over it.

The Miravel is a versatile reel and can be used for a wide range of fishing applications. The range starts at the 1000-size which is a good freshwater reel size, all the way through to the 5000-size for heavier spinning and inshore fishing.

The Cross Carbon Drag system is used on the Miravel and this again is another area of quality that makes the Miravel an excellent option for the price point it sells at.

Reel Specs:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Retrieve Per Crank (In):Weight (Oz):
MIR10005.0:175+1266.2
MIR2500HG6.2:1205+1367.2
MIRC3000HG6.2:1205+1367.2
MIR4000XG6.2:1245+1398.6
MIRC5000XG6.2:1245+1419.5

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Shimano has trickled down some of its premium technology to this reel
  • It uses the excellent Ci4+ body
  • Extremely smooth operation
  • Great balance to the reel
  • Strong and powerful
  • Stylish aesthetics
  • Versatile; suitable for a range of fishing applications
  • 1000-size reel available for lighter spinning applications
  • Exceptional value for money
Cons
  • No line roller bearing

Shimano Stradic FL

Best Shimano Spinning Reels - Stradic FL

If you need a fishing reel that is strong, durable, and an all-round workhorse, then the Stradic FL is the one.

The versatility of the Stradic FL makes it an excellent option for most anglers, and once you see how well it performs it will quickly become a regular addition on your fishing trips, as it has mine.

Product Features:

  • HaganeBody – reduces flex
  • Hagane Gear – provides more reliability
  • Shimano X-Ship – provides superior durability
  • SA-RB – improved bearings for better performance
  • G-FreeBody – new technology to reduce fatigue
  • Cross Carbon Drag – drag material provides the smooth drag performance
  • Micro Module Gear II – updated drive and pinion gear technology
  • X-Protect – provides a high level of water resistance
  • Aluminum cold forged spool
  • Propulsion Line Management System
  • Dyna-Balance
  • Power Roller II
  • SR-Concept
  • Aero Wrap II
  • Power handle (5000 model)

Released at the end of 2019, the excellent new Stradic FL quickly surged high up on my list of best Shimano spinning reels.

I have the 2500-size Stradic FL and I have been so impressed with how versatile this reel is, and just how well it performs.

It was released as an updated version of the already impressive and successful Stradic FK. It has been upgraded in several areas of its design and uses many of Shimano’s high-end technologies.

This reel is super-smooth!

The drag is impressive. Extremely powerful, it really does give you the confidence to play hard-fighting fish with the knowledge that you can give them line, and also apply the breaks whenever you need to.

What I love about the Stradic FL is its versatility. It’s one of those reels that you want in your tackle box when you come across situations when you may have to be dragging fish out of cover, the brute force of this reel does that well for you.

It should be said, that the Stradic is good, but not the best at super-finesse fishing. Get the Vanford if that is going to be your sole use for the reel. But for most other fishing applications, the Stradic FL is great.

top rated shimano spinning reels

Read my Shimano Sradic FL review

Reel Specs:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):
ST1000HGFL6.0:17 lbs6+16.9 oz
ST2500HGFL6.0:120 lbs6+17.9 oz
STC3000XGFL6.4:120 lbs6+17.9 oz
ST4000XGFL6.2:124 lbs6+19.2 oz
STC5000XGFL6.2:124 lbs6+19.3 oz

Pros & Cons:

Pros
  • Light and strong
  • Built with a lot of Shimano's premium technology
  • Silky-smooth performance
  • Excellent drag system
  • Light and well balanced
  • Casts well
  • Solid upgrade to the old Stradic FK
  • Very versatile reel
  • 1000-size available
Cons
  • Not the best for super-finesse fishing applications.

Compare price and check size availability


Shimano Ultegra FC

Best Shimano Spinning Reels - Ultegra FC

The Shimano Ultegra FC spinning reel combines some of Shimano's premium technologies that have trickled down from their more expensive ranges of spinning reel, and a very affordable and attractive price tag.

This reel is an excellent option for those looking to move out of the entry-level reels they may have started with, and want to get a spinning reel that has better features and functionality. In short, the Shimano Ultegra FC is a superb reel that I feel is punching way above its price range.

Product Features:

  • 5+1 SA-RB bearings
  • Ci4+ composite frame
  • Shielded Anti-rust Bearings
  • Moderate to high crank power rating
  • Hagane Gear
  • MicroModule II
  • Long stroke spool
  • SilentDrive technology
  • X-Protect technology
  • X-Ship
  • Aero Wrap II Oscillation
  • CoreProtect for water resistance
  • G Free Body
  • Waterproof drag

The Shimano Ultegra FC spinning reel had a significant upgrade to its predecessor and has filled a specific gap in the market, for those looking to add a bit of quality to their fishing combo’s, but at an affordable price.

The Ultegra FC has been a massively popular reel with anglers around the world, due to its incredible performance and durability.

The Ultegra FC has a lot of Shimano’s premium technologies, and this becomes clearly evident when you start using it.

It is pleasing to see this high-end technology from Shimano being made available at such an affordable price.

Shimano Ultegra FC best spinning reel

Read my comprehensive Shimano Ultegra FC review

The operation of the reel is exceptionally smooth, and the Hagane gearing really does its job well and ensures the reel doesn’t skip a beat.

The drag is also silky smooth and gives you real confidence when you hook into a decent fish.

One thing that Shimano does very well is with the start-up of their spinning reels. As soon as you apply pressure on the handle you can feel the power kicking in, and this is very apparent with the Ultegra FC reel.

The reel is very responsive, and when you hook into a fish you feel you have instant control and power to get the upper hand over it.

Reel specs:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):
ULT1000FC5.1:17.0 lbs5+16.3 oz
ULT2500HGFC6.0:120.0 lbs5+17.9 oz
ULTC3000HGFC6.0:120.0 lbs5+17.9 oz
ULT4000XGFC6.2:124.0 lbs5+19.5 oz
ULTC5000XGFC6.2:124.0 lbs5+110.1 oz

The Shimano Ultegra is a fairly light reel, and you can feel the quality and strength when you are using it.

With all of the technology and protection of components used in the Ultegra, you are going to get a lot of usage from the reel.

If you don’t want to spend Stradic kind of prices for a Shimano spinning reel, but you want similar performance, then the Ultegra FC is a great option for you.

Pros & Cons:

Pros
  • Uses some of Shimano’s higher-end technologies
  • Decent line capacity
  • Quite light
  • Well balanced, and sits nicely on the rod
  • Comfortable to flick lures with for longer periods
  • Casts far!
  • Very affordable price for a reel of this high quality
Cons
  • No anti-reverse lever (I personally don't miss this feature, but I know a lot of people do)

Shimano Nasci FC

Best Shimano Spinning Reels - Nasci

Is your new reel budget around the $100 mark, and want a good quality Shimano spinning reel?

Step up, Shimano Nasci FC. An excellent spinning reel for around the $100 mark, that performs well and provides the versatility and durability you would hope for from a quality fishing reel.

Product Features:

  • Built with Hagane gear
  • X-ship
  • G Free Body
  • Varispeed II
  • Coreprotect for added protection
  • AR-C Spool for smoother casting
  • Moderate to high crank power rating
  • Ideal for light freshwater and saltwater fishing
  • Saltwater ready
  • 10 year warranty


Do you have a budget of around the $100 mark, and want a good quality Shimano spinning reel?

The Shimano Nasci is a great option if this is your price range for a new spinning reel. I personally own a Nasci 4000 model, use it regularly and it does its job well.

There is a good range in sizes available, from the smallest 500 size up to the largest 5000 size. This gives you options for both lighter freshwater fishing to heavier inshore fishing.

best $100 shimano spinning reel

The X-ship technology used on the Nasci provides the torque and power that is clearly evident as soon as you hook into a decent fish.

Including the excellent Hagane gear system in a reel in this price range is a great deal for us, the consumer. This added strength and durability provided by Hagane gear is going to ensure your Nasci reel runs at its optimal levels for a very long time.

Reel specs:

Model:Gear Ratio:Max Drag Power (lbs):Bearings:Weight (Oz):
NAS500FC5.6:17.0 lbs4+16.0 oz
NAS1000FC5.0:17.0 lbs5+17.2 oz
NAS2500HGFC6.2:120.0 lbs5+18.5 oz
NASC3000HGFC6.2:120.0 lbs5+18.5 oz
NAS4000XGFC6.2:124.0 lbs5+110.1 oz
NASC5000XGFC6.2:124.0 lbs5+110.8 oz

For those of you that still like to use an anti-reverse lever, beware as the Nasci does not have one. Shimano has removed this from a lot of their reels now, and I have to say that I have never missed it.

You have plenty of drag to work with on this reel (up to 24 lbs / 11kg depending on which model you have). With the good range of sizes available in the Nasci FC range, it ensures that there is the ideal size here for anyone looking for a light spinning reel.

Overall, you are getting a lot of reel for the price with the Shimano Nasci FC. A great option spinning reel for around the $100 price range

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Small 500 and 1000 sizes available in this range
  • Several high-end Shimano technologies used
  • Smooth and responsive retrieval
  • Powerful drag
  • Well balanced reel
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • No anti-reverse lever

Shimano Spinning Reel Comparison Chart

If you like to look more closely at the specifications for all of the reels, I have compiled this chart so you can see them all side-by-side to help you get 

There are a lot of really good Shimano spinning reels detailed on this page, that cover the entire spectrum of budgets, so there should be something here for everyone.

Shimano Sustain FJShimano VanfordShimano Stella FKShimano MiravelShimano Stradic FLShimano Ultegra FCShimano Nasci FC
Hagane Gear
BodyCi4+Ci4+Ci4+Ci4+HaganeCi4+ / PlasticPlastic
Ci4+XX
RotorMGLMGLInfinityDriveMagumliteCoreSolid
X-Ship
Silent
Drive
Micromodule IIXX
Long Stroke SpoolXX
One-Piece BailXX
S-ARBXX
Aero Wrap IIInfinityLoopXXX
Water ResistanceX-ProtectX-ProtectX-ProtectCoreProtectX-ProtectX-ProtectCore Protect
Bearings8+1 S-ARB7+1 S-ARB12+1nS-ARB5+1 ARB6+1 S-ARB5+1 S-ARB5+1 ARB
DragCross CarbonCross CarbonRigid Support Cross CarbonCross CarbonCross CarbonCross Carbon
Weight (2500)7.4oz6.3oz7.4oz7.1oz7.7oz7.9oz8.5oz

There are a lot of really good Shimano spinning reels detailed on this page, that cover the entire spectrum of budgets, so there should be something here for everyone.


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