Best Jig Reels for Every Budget
With so many reels on the market, it can be hard to know which is best for your budget. Below I will walk you through the best jig reels and at what price points there are worthy upgrades.
Best Reel for Jigs – $450
The Shimano Metanium MGL 150 is the top-of-the-line jig reel that delivers the highest performance for professional and avid anglers. At $450 it comes at a steep price, but for those looking for the best, look no further.
This reel is the most advanced Metanium ever produced. It has a Magnesium CoreSolid body that is incredibly durable, rigid, and sensitivity in a lightweight package.
The MGLIII spool with Silent Tune reduces spool inertia and bearing vibration by 17% over the previous generation. This allows you to cast jigs further and with greater accuracy. Additionally, the SVS Infinity brakes allow for even more precision when casting to cover.
Overall, the Metanium MGL 150 B is a premier reel is the best of the best, making it the perfect tool for tournament-level fishing.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight | Bearing | Line Cap. (Test/Yd.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| METMGL150HGB | 7.1:1 | 6.3 | 10S A-RB + 1S A-RB | 10/120, 12/110 |
High-End Jig Reel for Enthusiast – $250
The Shimano Curado 70 MGL is a high-end reel that is perfect for anglers who love fishing a jig. Its a remarkable reel that has great durability, dependability, and performance. I had the opportunity to test out the reel and was impressed with its outstanding features.
One of the most striking aspects of the Shimano Curado 70 MGL K Casting Reels is its lightweight MGL Spool. This spool requires less energy to start up, which translates to longer casts with less effort. The advanced spool system is also perfect for light lines which are needed when fishing a jerkbair.
Despite its small size, it has a powerful Cross Carbon Drag system that can handle even the biggest bass. Like other Curado reels, it features MicroModule Gears for exceptional smoothness and a HAGANE Body for increased durability and rigidity.
I highly recommend the Shimano Curado 70 MGL K for those looking for to splurge on a high end jig reel. It’s lightweight design, powerful drag system, and smooth operation make it a reliable and efficient reel.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight | Bearing | Line Cap. (Test/Yd.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CUMGL70HGK | 7.4:1 | 6.9 | 8BB + 1RB | 10/105, 12/85 |
Best Value Reel for Jigs – $200
The Shimano Curado 200K (HG) is the best jig reel for the money. It’s a major improvement over reels in the hundred dollar range while also not breaking the bank.
This reel has a SVS Infinity braking system, which allows you to fine-tune your casting and preventing backlash. Its also has MicroModule gearing which makes it super smooth.
It’s X-ship technology makes it very durable and reliable, even when you’re going after big fish. Overall, the Shimano Curado 200K Casting Reel is an excellent choice for anglers looking for the best value in a jig reel.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight | Bearing | Line Cap. (Test/Yd.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CU200HG K | 7.4:1 | 7.6 | 6BB + 1RB | 14/110 |
Best Budget Jig Reel – $100
The Shimano SLX 150 HGA is my go to budget reel for fishing a jig. It’s fairly smooth due to the SilentTune technology and it’s built to last due to the HAGANE Body. The other thing that sets the SLX 150 apart is it’s SVS braking system, which helps cut down on backlashing.
Overall, the Shimano SLX A 150 is hard to beat at $100 for its versatility and performance. It’s built to last, delivers exceptional performance.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight | Bearing | Line Cap. (Test/Yd.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLX150HGA | 7.2:1 | 6.9 | 3BB + 1RB | 10/120, 12/110 |
What is the best gear ratio for jig fishing?
A 7.4:1 gear ratio reel is ideal for jig fishing. Having a high speed reel will help remove any slack in your line before setting the hook.
Pair your new reel with the best jig rod for your budget to make the perfect combo.