Best Anti-Reverse Spinning Fishing Reels of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Anti-reverse spinning fishing reels are a great addition to any angler's gear collection. These reels are designed with a one-way clutch system that prevents the handle from spinning backwards, ensuring a smooth and reliable retrieval of your catch. They also feature a durable construction and high-quality components that make them resistant to wear and tear, allowing for long-lasting performance. Anti-reverse spinning fishing reels are ideal for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, and are available in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your specific needs and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

RESTCLOUD GF1000 Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 1
RESTCLOUD GF1000 Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shakespeare Contender Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
Shakespeare Contender Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Anti-Reverse Spinning Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

RESTCLOUD GF1000 Fishing Reel

Black/Gold
GF1000
RESTCLOUD GF1000 Fishing Reel Cover
Spinning Fishing Reel for Freshwater Saltwater Fishing, Anti-Reverse with Front-Adjustable Drag (GF1000)

The RESTCLOUD Fishing Reel is designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it a versatile choice for anglers. Its tough construction, featuring a titanium-nitride plated bail wire and durable aluminum spool, ensures it can handle even the biggest catches. You’ll appreciate the Instant Anti-Reverse feature, which helps secure your hookset by preventing the handle from moving backward. Plus, the reel’s lightweight ported spool makes it easy to maneuver during long fishing trips. With a convertible handle for both left and right-handed users, this reel offers flexibility and ease of use for everyone.

What We Like
Durable construction
Smooth operation
Lightweight design
Versatile for various fishing
Convertible handle

Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel

OP40D
Multi
40 size/Clampack
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 40 Reel, Changeable Right- or Left-Hand Retrieve, Aluminum Spool, Stainless Steel Bail Wire, Continuous Anti-Reverse, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, Silver, Clam Packaging

The Quantum Optix spinning fishing reel offers a balanced and smooth casting experience for catching medium species such as walleye and bass. Its continuous anti-reverse clutch technology creates a solid hookset and its changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and 4 bearings enhance any fishing trip. It is expertly crafted with a TRU Balance rotor, front-adjustable drag, 5.2:1 gear ratio, and 34 IPT line retrieval for speed and precision. It has a mono line capacity of 230/10 yds/lbs and the ability to hold up to 310-yards of 20-pound braided line.

What We Like
Balanced and smooth casting experience
Continuous anti-reverse clutch technology for solid hookset
Expertly crafted with TRU Balance rotor and front-adjustable drag
#TOP 3

Shakespeare Contender Fishing Reel

Shakespeare
CONT220B
Black
Black
Shakespeare Contender Fishing Reel Cover
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

The Shakespeare Contender Reel is designed for anglers seeking durability and performance without overspending. Its 5.2:1 gear ratio strikes a perfect balance between power and speed, making it easier for you to tackle tough fish. With four stainless steel ball bearings and instant anti-reverse, you can enjoy smooth operation during your fishing trips. The oil felt front drag system ensures you maintain a steady and adjustable drag, allowing you to adapt easily to the size and strength of your catch. This reel is a reliable companion for any fishing adventure.

What We Like
Durable construction
Smooth operation
Easy drag adjustment
Good value for money
#TOP 4

Quantum Throttle Spinning Fishing Reel

TH25C.BX3
Silver
Quantum Throttle Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
Quantum Throttle Spinning Fishing Reel, 10 + 1 Ball Bearings with a Smooth and Powerful 6.2:1 Gear Ratio, Ultra-Smooth Carbon Fiber Drag System, Dura-Lok Anti-Reverse Clutch, and MaxCast II Spool

The Quantum Throttle Spinning Fishing Reel features a lightweight, durable carbon fiber body and side cover, forged, and machined double-anodized spool, 11 bearings, a Dura-Lok anti-reverse clutch, and a carbon fiber drag system with max 16-pound drag. It has a mono capacity of 150/8 and can hold up to 160 yards of 20-pound braided line, making it perfect for catching panfish, trout, walleye, and bass. The reel is customizable for any angler with a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve. It is covered by a 5-year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials.

What We Like
Durable carbon fiber body and side cover
Smooth performance with 11 bearings and anti-reverse clutch
Carbon fiber drag system with max 16-pound drag
Customizable for any angler with changeable retrieve
5-year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials
#TOP 5

Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

Mitchell
Multi
300 - 180yd/12lbs
Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel Cover
Mitchell 300 Spinning Fishing Reel

The Mitchell 300 Reel is a lightweight yet durable spinning fishing reel designed for superior line management. Its innovative Bail Halo design enhances rotor strength, offering you greater reliability while reeling in your catch. With eight bearings and an instant anti-reverse feature, this reel ensures smooth and uninterrupted operation, making your fishing experience more enjoyable. Additionally, the multi-disk drag system provides consistent drag pressure, whether you're handling light or heavy loads, allowing you to fish with confidence and ease.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Smooth operation
Consistent drag pressure
Strong rotor design
#TOP 6

PENN Wrath II Fishing Reel

Black/Gold
6000
PENN Wrath II Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Wrath II Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 6000, Right/Left Handle Position, Corrosion-Resistant Graphite Body, Machined Anodized Aluminum Spool

The PENN Wrath II Reel is designed for anglers who value strength and reliability. Its lightweight graphite body resists corrosion, ensuring longevity even in harsh saltwater conditions. With a gear ratio of 5.6:1, you can recover line quickly, making your fishing experience more efficient. The 2+1 stainless steel bearing system provides smooth operation, especially when battling tough catches. Plus, the felt front drag system allows for rapid start-ups with a maximum drag capacity of 20 lbs, giving you the control you need during intense fights. This reel is built to enhance your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant materials
Quick line recovery
Smooth operation
High maximum drag
#TOP 7

Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel

Shakespeare
CONT270B
Black
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel Cover
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 70, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

The Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel is a versatile fishing reel that offers a great combination of performance and durability. With 3 ball bearings and a one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing, this reel provides smooth and reliable operation. The ported spool not only makes the reel lightweight but also enhances its casting distance. The Magna bail wire is oversized, ensuring increased durability, especially in sizes 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40. The left/right convertible handle allows for easy switching between hands, making it suitable for both left-handed and right-handed anglers. The on/off anti-reverse feature adds convenience and prevents any backward movement when reeling. Overall, the Shakespeare Contender Reel is a reliable and user-friendly fishing reel that provides excellent performance and durability for anglers of all levels.

What We Like
Smooth and reliable operation
Lightweight and enhanced casting distance
Durable Magna bail wire

Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel

Shakespeare
CONT260B
Black
Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel Cover
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 60, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

The Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel is a lightweight and durable fishing reel that features 3 ball bearings, instant anti-reverse bearing, ported spool, oversized magna bail wire (on select sizes), and left/right convertible handle. The on/off anti-reverse provides convenience and ease of use while fishing.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Multiple ball bearings for smooth operation
Select sizes feature oversized magna bail wire for increased durability
#TOP 9

Pflueger President Size 30 Reel

PRES30B
Metal
30 - Clam
Pflueger President Size 30 Reel Cover
Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 30, 10 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Sealed Oil Felt Front Drag, Lightweight Graphite Construction

The Pflueger President Reel offers exceptional fishing performance without straining your budget. Its lightweight graphite construction ensures easy handling, making it a great choice for both right and left-handed anglers. With a smooth 25.3 inches of line recovery per crank, you gain better control over your fishing line, reducing tangles and wind knots. The sealed oil felt front drag system provides up to 10 pounds of drag, helping you tire out fish more effectively. Additionally, the 10 stainless steel ball bearings enhance the reel's smooth operation, ensuring a pleasant fishing experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Smooth operation with ball bearings
Effective drag system
Reduced line tangles

Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel

ZO2PRO,06,BX3
Black
Size 20
Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel Cover
Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel, 7 Bearings (6 + Clutch), Instant Anti-Reverse with a Smooth Triple-Cam, Dial-Adjustable Disk Drag, Powerful All-Metal Gears, Spare Spool, Size 20,Black

The Zebco Omega Pro Reel is a powerful closed-cast fishing reel designed to enhance your angling experience. With its aluminum covers, extra Dual-Paddle handle, and soft-touch thumb button, it offers smooth and easy casting. Equipped with 7 bearings, all-metal gears, and a 19-inch retrieve rate, this reel ensures a smooth retrieval and stands tough for many fishing adventures. The instant anti-reverse technology provides added reliability, helping you secure your prized catch. With a mono capacity of 85/6, it is ideal for heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, and striper. Set a new gold standard for angling achievement with the versatile Zebco Omega Pro Reel.

What We Like
Powerful reel
Smooth retrieval
Reliable
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should I use the anti reverse on spinning reel?

It is a good one. Anti-Reverse on a spinning reel is a feature that prevents the reel from turning backwards and engages the drag. Some reels come with an Anti Reverse switch that allows the angler to choose whether it is engaged or not.

2. What does an anti reverse switch do on a spinning reel?

The final component to understand on your spinning reel is the anti-reverse switch. This feature is typically located at the bottom of the reel and can be a helpful tool when fighting fish. This switch allows you to backreel, or reel in reverse, rather than relying on your drag system for line tension.

Editor's Notes

During our anti-reverse spinning fishing reel research, we found 24 anti-reverse spinning fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 43,830 customer reviews through our big data system to write the anti-reverse spinning fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose anti-reverse spinning fishing reels with an average price of $28.30.

The anti-reverse spinning fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of anti-reverse spinning fishing reels, including RESTCLOUD, Quantum, Shakespeare, Zebco, Mitchell. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,236 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.