Pike is an aggressive predator and a great catch for many anglers. It represents one of the most popular options out there. From some points of view, it is a good catch because given its predator purpose, it will chase pretty much anything smaller in size. But then, the aggressive profile makes it a bit difficult. This is when you realize, you need to find the best spinning reels for pike.

Best Spinning Reels For Pike

There are plenty of options out there. But on the same note, they are so diversified that you barely know what to start with. Plus, there is no such thing as a reel specifically designed for pike. Luckily for you, I have already researched the market. Based on personal experience and some recommendations over Pike Forum and Pike Angler, I put together a list with the top rated reels for pike.

Top spinning reels for pike

• Editor’s choice: Quantum Smoke S3 PT Spinning Reel
• Customer favorite: Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Reel
• Best value for money: Stradic 4000XGFB Spin Reel

Best Spinning Reels For Pike

Best value For Money: Stradic 4000 XGFB Spin Reel

The Stradic 4000XGFB reel comes from Shimano. If you have used other reels from Shimano, you probably know already what to expect in terms of quality and performance. I was not surprised to find a beautiful, smooth and quiet reel. Besides, owning and using it for a long time, I can also agree that it is quite durable and likely to take a good beating.

The reel is available in five different sizes. The 4000XGFB is just one of them – the one before the largest size. The collection is not really new, as Shimano has released a few Stradic reels before. This new model comes with some upgrades though, especially when it comes to balance. Plus, it features a few seals to keep the harmful water out of it.

The Hagane technology is what defines this reel. You have a Hagane body, as well as Hagane gears. The body is about durability and solid operations. It is mostly based on metal and can take all kinds of shocks. When it comes to the gears, it is all about smoothness. The X-Ship technology also adds to the strength and precision. You will not necessarily notice these upgrades right away, but wait until you fight some large fish.

The Coreprotect technology ensures water and weather resistance, while the G Free body adds to the balance. With the center of gravity closer to the rod, it feels like the reel is built in and part of it. The outcome? You can fit it on more types of rods without ruining the balance.

The stainless steel bail is large and comes with a heavy duty spring. Trust me, you will know when it is properly engaged – it has an audible signal as well. When it comes to casting and retrieving, the Propulsion Line Management System will not let you down – a relatively common feature in many high end reels today.

Finally, do not overlook the dragging power. Felt and steel washers will work wonders right away. Again, this is the type of feature that will make the difference with heavy fish.

Pros

• Lots of innovative technologies for performance
• No knots or twists with line management
• Impressive dragging power
• Good durability, regardless of the weather conditions

Cons

• A few plastic parts used in the overall design

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What do other anglers say?

“I owned Shimano reels before and I knew the brand would not disappoint. Its reels simply get better and more innovative with time. This unit is just as good – super strong and incredibly smooth. Good job, Shimano!”

Give it a try here.

Editor’s Choice: Quantum Smoke S3 PT Spinning Reel

The Smoke S3 PT reel is compact and features a large visible spool. It clearly has extra line capacity, while its casting capabilities might be a bit better when compared to other reels in this range. Now, can this reel provide what you need given its small and compact design?

I will be honest with you – at first, I thought it is just a decent toy that most newbies and intermediate users can benefit from. To a certain point, of course. As I got to use it, I realize that I might have been wrong.

It is packed with so many features that I barely know what to start with. The aluminum frame is lightweight and durable. It comes with a computer aided design that ensures a top notch alignment. Quantum calls this design the X Frame, but I am not really sure why.

Anyway, moving on, there is a continuous anti reverse that provides perfect support. You will not really have a use for it right away, but you will notice its importance when dealing with large fish. The precision stainless steel bearing will also give you a hand.

When it comes to smoothness, I find it hard to find a better spinning reel for pike. You have a 10+1 anti corrosion bearing system. Apart from smoothness, this kind of design will also ensure durability and protection against all the issues associated with saltwater.

Then, you have a ceramic carbon drag system that can pull out 25 pounds of drag, an oversized spool for performance, a superior centrifugal braking system that can be adjusted too (Micro Adjust ACS 4.0) and a PT Gear design.

Now, if you have used other generations of this reel, you probably ask yourself – what are the main upgrades? The low profile allows resting the thumb and clears the fatigue. The reel feels well in your hand and fits perfectly. The PT Thumbar design comes with a stainless steel kick lever.

Finally, I have to mention the PT Power Handle too, the zero friction design, the gull wing side cover for quick access and the hot sauce lubrication. This lubricant adds to the lifespan of your real and clears the friction. Moreover, the Saltguard protection is a package of protective features that prevent corrosion and other issues associated with saltwater. Basically, it is all about durability.

Pros

• An impressive array of innovative features
• Excellent price for the features you get
• Smoother than most of its competition
• Good drag power

Cons

• No left or right hand adjustment, but you can buy it in different models according to your dominant hand

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What do other anglers say?

“I think this is the best reel I have ever owned. It has so many technologies that I am surprised Quantum has managed to keep the price decent. I would truly recommend it.”

Check it out here.

Daiwa BG Spinning Reel

I have used a similar reel (if not the same) from Daiwa years ago. This is practically an upgrade from a previous generation that was well seen due to its great value for money. Daiwa is not a big name when compared to other brands in this range, but it is certainly among the front runners and worth some attention.

Now, let me get into its features because there are plenty. The Digigear System brings in some super large gears. They are probably CNC machined. Anyway, the point is a wider surface ensures more teeth in contact with another, so the smoothness is simply taken to another level.

Another feature that drew my attention is the handle. It screws in. Most reels have a through handle design. This one is different. I was a bit anxious about it because I have never used anything alike, but it is actually pretty good at clearing the play.

Moving on, the housing is based on machined aluminum. As if it was not durable and resistant enough, Daiwa has also brought in some black anodizing. The reel can take bumps and scrapes with no problems at all.

You will find the air rotor quite interesting too. The secret is in its design. It has less material in its composition and it weighs about 15% less – assuming you are comparing it to a classic rotor made from the same material. It is well balanced and evens the stress over the whole reel.

So far, so good, but the list is longer. The reel comes with an aluminum ABS spool – braided line ready – that clears twists and knots, as well as a carbon ATD drag system made of carbon fiber washers. The smoothness is also boosted by the seven ball bearings. They are not shielded, so they require a bit of maintenance, but at least they are made of durable stainless steel.

Last, but not least, the reel comes in a few different sizes. Different sizes have different capabilities, as well as some extras. For example, you have an infinite anti reverse system in the 4000 size or smaller. The 4500 size and bigger options come with an infinite dual anti reverse system.

Pros

• Plenty of technologies to boost the durability, balance, alignment and smoothness
• Innovative rotor design for less weight
• Literally no play in the handle
• Available in plenty of different sizes

Cons

• Since ball bearings are not shielded, they will require a bit of extra care and maintenance

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What do other anglers say?

“Definitely a good reel with good value for money. It feels more sophisticated as you use it, especially with all these technologies.”

Give it a try here.

Customer Favorite: Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Reel

Pflueger has designed one of the lightest spinning reels for pike and not only. The rotor, side plate and body are entirely made of magnesium. Sure, there are more sizes, but the unit weighs around six and 8.7 ounces, which is quite light for this segment. Moreover, the reel is also stronger due to the design, not to mention its durability when used in saltwater applications.

The braid ready spool is made of aluminum. There is no need for any monofilament backing – just go out there and get some fish. This feature clears a lot of frustration – forget about tape to seal braided line. Plus, the package came with a spare spool – who does not love freebies?

The carbon fiber drag is sealed. This is my favorite aspect regarding this reel. It is a solid one piece unit that requires less material and feels more durable. The seal ensures no debris or dust will get inside the system. Plus, compared to other reels I own, this is really quiet.

When it comes to the maximum drag, you will get anywhere between eight and 14 pounds, depending on the size you choose.

The slow oscillation gearing system reduces the speed when the spool moves, so twists and knots become history. There are 9+1 bearings that also add to the overall smoothness. They can resist corrosion as well, as they are made from stainless steel.

There is nothing to complain about in terms of comfort. Compared to previous generations, the new reel has a carbon fiber handle. It is strong and lightweight – after all, carbon fiber is over 20% lighter than aluminum. Since it is also stronger, I wonder why other brands overlook this idea.

Plus, you will love the EVA handle knob. A bit of cushioning will always add to your comfort. You can fish the whole day without worrying about fatigue and discomfort.

Pros

• Extremely smooth due to the superior ball bearing system
• Super comfortable due to its handle and knob
• Good maximum drag for its size
• Lightweight and strong due to the materials in its design

Cons

• Spool comes with port holes that may allow dust and dirt to get in

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What do other anglers say?

“This is one of the best reels in my collection. It is excellent for pike, but I use it for other fish as well. I have it for less than a year, but I have a feeling it will last for ages.”

Check it out here.

Conclusion

As a short final conclusion, these are the top rated spinning reels for pike based on my research, customer reviews and recommendations from experienced anglers. No matter what you choose, do it with your needs and fishing experience in mind.