We’re just about halfway through 2026 and for me, the bass fishing has been GOOD.
There is nothing quite like the feeling of unboxing a brand new reel, spooling it up with fresh line, and making that very first cast. And with ICAST 2026 coming up next month, there is going to be a whole mess of new bass reels hitting the market in the next 6 months or so. It can be pretty overwhelming to find the perfect reel, and for the most part, it comes down to feel. We can read the specs, read the reviews, get opinions from bloggers like myself or pro anglers, but you can’t really know for sure until you try it out. Of course, that can be an expensive game of trial and error.
I’m admittedly a gear nut who loves to try new rods, new reels, new tackle… even if I buy it, use it once and never touch it again. It’s a bit of a problem. But it also gives me a unique perspective when it comes to recommending rods and reels and tackle. I don’t get paid by brands, I don’t have a rod or reel sponsor that I’m obligated to talk about… I try out everything, and every single piece of fishing equipment that I recommend and link to (as part of the affiliate program at Tackle Warehouse) is one that I have used personally. I have about 30 or so rod and reel combos, across all price points, that I’ve utilized at some point this year, and over the last few months, my favorites have emerged.
So all that said, here is the definitive list of the absolute best bass fishing reels I’ve fished with this year…. so far.
1. Shimano SLX A 150
Ol’ reliable. At an insanely budget-friendly price, the Shimano SLX A is just too good to be ignored. I have a ton of high priced reels, and they’re great, but I use this reel on my swim jig rod just about every day here in Wisconsin. It’s super smooth, can cast a mile, and it is as versatile as any reel in my arsenal… if you’re looking to purchase a few reels to outfit a handful of different combos, there isn’t a better way to do it.
Shop the Shimano SLX A 150 at Tackle Warehouse – $114.99
2. Abu Garcia Revo Rocket LP
This one is a game changer. I started using the Abu Garcia Revo Rocket a couple years back when it first came out, and I’ve never looked back. At 10.1: 1… the thing screams. I use it on my frog rod primarily, and that’s mostly because I almost always have a frog tied on, but it’s great for any technique where you need to get the line in and make quick casts…. flipping and pitching, punching, swim jigs… any time you’re targeting shallow cover on the bank. The Revo Rocket lives up to the name bringing a whole new meaning to efficiency on the water.
Shop the Abu Garcia Revo Rocket at Tackle Warehouse – $389.95
3. Abu Garcia Revo STX
The Abu Garcia Revo STX is one that I just keep going back to. That asymmetric design feels GREAT in hand and the oversized knobs are perfect for wrenching down on the handle when you’re fighting fish. It also offers a stout drag system with a whopping 25 pounds of drag. The Revo STX 8.1:1 has been one of my go-to reels when I’m flipping and pitching around shallow cover this year, but it’s so versatile, you can use it for just about anything you like.
Shop the Abu Garcia Revo STX at Tackle Warehouse – $259.95
4. Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150
This one might be favorite of the group. Featuring their signature SV spool system that automatically adjusts the magnetic braking system during the cast, you maximize distance while also virtually eliminating backlashes. It’s a must have on my dock-skipping rod, but can also be used for finesse applications, power fishing, and even chucking big glide baits into the wind. When you want a high quality piece of machinery at a price that won’t require you to sell a kidney, look no further.
Shop the Daiwa Tatula SV TW at Tackle Warehouse – $249.99
5. Abu Garcia Revo SX VoltIQ
Reels with digital breaking systems have been around for a minute, but the new Abu Garcia Voltiq is really cool, and unlike anything else on the market. It gives you the control to dial in exactly how much digital effort is going into the cast. If you’re brand new to the baitcaster and need something that is virtually backlash proof, this is the ticket. But even if you’re a baitcaster pro, this takes efficiency to a whole new level whether you’re trying to skip docks or cast a big glide into the wind. Personally, it’s been a game changer when it comes to casting light lures like the Coike under docks and into precise cover. I’ve been using a frog hook on my Coikes and Moebas as of late, so in order to skip it under docks and still have a stout casting rod to set the hook, this reel makes it so much easier.
And honestly, I just love the sound of it.
Shop the Abu Garcia VoltIQ at Tackle Warehouse – $249.95
*This post contains links through the Tackle Warehouse Affiliate Program. While all products are independently selected by our expert Riff Outdoors team, if you use these links to make a purchase, we may earn a commission.
And for a detailed bait recommendation, specific to your exact location and waterbody right now, check out the Bass Forecast Bait Advisor. Just input your ZIP code or share your location, and Bass Forecast will give you 5 bait recommendations, a bite rating, and suggestions for peak feeding times.
Bass Forecast Bait Advisor
What is Bass Bait AI – Powered by Bass Forecast
Our advanced bass fishing algorithms analyze over 11,000 factors, including weather shifts and bass behavior, to predict what baits will give you the best chance at success for any GPS location.
Just enter your location, and it does the calculating for you. Giving you the complete bait breakdown for major and minor Bass feeding times in any bass fishing location. Click HERE to learn more.
