Here’s a quick summary of our recommended spod reels, detailed in this guide:
| Best For | Product | Price | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Overall Rated | Daiwa 23 Superspod 45 SCW | £136.66 | |
 | Shimano's Top Option | Shimano 25 Aerlex 14000 Spod Reel | £108.99 | |
 | Most Popular With Anglers | Daiwa 20 Crosscast Spod Reel | £129.99 | |
 | A Good Lightweight Spod Reel | Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD | £139.99 | |
 | Ultra Fast Retrieval | Sonik Turbospod Reel 14000 | £74.99 | |
 | An Excellent Spod / Marker Reel | Avid Pro Spod Marker Reel | £98.99 | |
 | Best Budget Spod Reel | Sonik HeroX Spod Reel | £47.50 |
Spodding can be a laborious task and one that dishes out a lot of punishment to your gear. As such, you need your tackle to be up to the task if you want it to last for more than one session.
A good quality spod reel is paramount if you plan on baiting up your swim with a spod or spomb efficiently and accurately.
This article summarises the best spod reels we have tested and reviewed to help you make an informed choice before you consider a purchase.
Let’s get straight into it.
What To Look For In A Good Spod Reel
Spod reels differ to normal carp fishing reels in the way that they are built and tuned slightly differently to make the task of casting a heavy spod and retrieving it efficient.
Here are some features to look out for that are traits of the better spod reels out there.
A Big Spool
A large spool obviously accommodates more line. Although you probably wont be casting the full capacity of a large spool, what it does do is limit the friction on the line peeling of the spool particularly in the latter stages of a big cast.
This reduced friction in turn allows for more distance.
Larger spools also tend to allow for better line lay which again helps distance and also reduces tangles and fraps, particularly when casting with a spool full of spod braid.
A Fast Retrieve Rate
The retrieve rate on a reel is dictated by the gear ratio. So if a reel has a gear ratio of 4:1:1, it means the spool turns 4.1 times for every 1 turn of the handle.
With a spod reel, I recommend looking for a gear ratio of over 5 as the retrieval rate will be quicker which saves time and a bit more effort. This I found quite important with intense spodding sessions.
Line Clips
A good spod reel should have a reliable and solid line clip or clips that allow you to cast and bait up the same spots consistently.
Spods full of bait are heavy and as such when this heavy load hits the line clip there can be a fair amount of force applied.
The line clip on the better spod reels are beefed up a bit and made of reinforced or stronger materials to live up to the rigours of this tactic.
Try and avoid reels with elongated, plastic clips as they are often fiddly and prone to breakage.
Quality Components
Given the immense forces generated during casting when spodding, it’s vital to choose a reel made from high-quality components. While it’s tempting to go for budget options, investing in a higher-end reel will ensure it can withstand the pressure and last longer.
Quality components are critical as a spod reel undergoes more stress than other types of reels and can fail quickly if not up to standard.
Having said that you don’t have to break the bank to find a spod reel with quality components. There are one or two decent options in this guide that offer fantastic value for money.
Additional Considerations
On top of the main build of the reel there are a couple features that are present on the top spod reels that do add to a positive user experience. Firstly, I really like reels that offer a slow oscillation system. This really helps with line-lay which in turn increases casting distance, accuracy and limits tangles.
Secondly if you are looking for a spod reel that doubles up for marker work, a quick drag system is often really handy as you can start paying of line with a small turn of the drag without fiddling around too much.
Top Tip: You can see how the features of a reel differ from those with different uses by checking out our what to look for guide here.
The 7 Best Spod Reels
Here are the top 7 spod reels I have reviewed and tested. Each reel has been put through its paces and thoroughly researched. Different budgets and fishing circumstances have been taken into account to provide a fair and impartial list.
You can check out how eTackle reviews fishing reels here.
Best Overall Spod Reel
#1. Daiwa 23 Superspod 45 SCW
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 9.0
Drag / Clutch - 9.0
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Daiwa 23 SuperSpod 45 SCW is a top spod reel that caters to the needs of dedicated Carp anglers seeking precision and efficiency in their spodding setup. With an impressive overall rating of 8.8 out of 10, this reel offers exceptional build quality, casting performance, and user-friendly features. It’s top score has put it firmly in our list of the best carp reels.
Crafted with Daiwa’s renowned expertise, the SuperSpod 45 boasts a lightweight yet durable construction, featuring a DS4 body and a Zaion V Air Rotor that contribute to its well-balanced and smooth operation.
The 45mm LC Long Cast Spool and Slow Cross Wrap technology work in tandem to ensure an even line lay that, that helps with casting distance and reduces tangles and fraps.
One of the standout features of the Daiwa 23 SuperSpod 45 SCW is its QDM Quick Drag system. This allows for fast and convenient drag adjustments with just a 3/4 turn. This not only facilitates easy switching between free spool and desired drag settings but also adds versatility, making the reel suitable for other fishing applications beyond spodding.
The reel’s efficient line retrieval is helped by its high gear ratio which achieves 118cm per turn retrieve rate, makes the arduous task of spodding seem effortless.
While priced higher than some competitors, the SuperSpod 45 SCW offers excellent value for money, scoring an impressive 8.5 out of 10.
With its combination of exceptional performance, durability, and user-friendly features, the Daiwa 23 SuperSpod 45 SCW is a worthy investment for serious Carpers who are looking for a top-notch spodding reel that outperforms many rivals in its price range.
Shimano’s Best Spod Reel
#2. Shimano 25 Aerlex 14000 Spod Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 9.0
Drag / Clutch - 9.0
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Shimano 25 Aerlex 14000 Spod Reel scored 8.7 in our testing and sits as a very close second in our guide to the best spod reels.
Part of Shimano’s hugely popular 14000 series, this reel combines budget-friendly accessibility with the kind of engineering quality the brand is renowned for. It’s built to withstand the punishment of heavy spod and marker work while maintaining smooth, controlled performance.
With Super Slow 5 oscillation, the Aerlex delivers a precise, friction-reducing line lay, helping you achieve longer and more accurate casts. The Parallel Body and G Free design improve balance and alignment, while the cold-forged AR-C spool ensures durability under repeated strain.
A 4.3:1 gear ratio brings in an impressive 103cm of line per turn, which makes a real difference when spodding at range. The instant drag system offers quick and simple adjustments mid-session, adding to its user-friendly appeal.
For anglers who want a reliable, long-distance spod reel without stepping into the premium price bracket, the Aerlex is a fantastic choice. Its stealth styling also pairs seamlessly with Shimano Tribal TX carp rods, making it as sharp in looks as it is in performance.
Pros
- Excellent value for money within Shimano’s 14000 reel family
- Super Slow 5 oscillation gives outstanding line lay for long casts
- High retrieve rate (103cm per turn) makes spodding and marking efficient
- Durable cold-forged AR-C spool built for heavy use
- Sleek aesthetics that match modern Shimano rod ranges
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some competitors at 630g
Most Popular In Our Angler’s Poll
#3. Daiwa 20 Crosscast Spod Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Daiwa 20 Crosscast Spod Reel is designed with one purpose in mind, to make spodding more efficient, accurate, and less tiring. Built around Daiwa’s proven engineering, it combines casting power, smooth retrieval, and durability at a very fair price point.
Its 45mm LC Long Cast spool and Slow Cross Wrap system deliver excellent line lay and effortless distance, which makes a real difference when consistently casting heavy spods to the same spot.
The addition of a metal High Impact Line Clip means you can hit your mark repeatedly without worrying about line damage.
Retrieval is equally impressive. With Digigear II gearing and a strong aluminium machine cut handle, the Crosscast winds in 118cm of line per turn, making the often laborious task of spodding noticeably easier.
The QD Quick Drag system adds versatility, while the DS5 Air Rotor ensures smooth rotation under load.
It may not boast the refinements of Daiwa’s top-end spod reels, but for reliability, performance, and value in a workhorse spod reel, the Crosscast is one of the most popular choices on the market.
Pros
- 45mm Long Cast spool and Slow Cross Wrap give excellent distance and line lay
- Retrieves 118cm per turn, ideal for rapid spod recovery
- High Impact Line Clip built to withstand repeated casting impacts
- Robust Digigear II system ensures smooth, dependable winding
- Great value compared to higher-end Daiwa spod reels
Cons
- Bulkier than some alternatives, not the lightest reel in its class
A Good Lightweight Option
#4. Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is another top contender in the world of spod reels. Known for its high-quality construction, the Ultegra 5500 XTD features a lightweight and durable design made from aluminium and carbon fibre.
The large spool, despite the reel’s compact size, accommodates 280 metres of line, making it ideal for long-distance casting. The Super Slow Oscillation system ensures precise line lay, enhancing casting performance and reducing friction.
What sets this reel apart is its smooth drag system, bolstered by Shimano’s advanced technology. The quick drag system allows for swift adjustments, making it versatile for various fishing techniques.
With a gear ratio of 5.3:1, it delivers efficient and quick retrievals which I feel is always an important feature of a good spod reel. The Ultegra 5500 XTD is well-balanced and visually appealing, providing exceptional performance at a reasonable price point.
Though some anglers find the retrieve speed a bit fast (mostly those not using it as a spod reel), its robust construction and versatility make it a valuable addition to any angler’s gear.
Pros
- Very lightweight (one of the lightest I've tested)
- A nice big spool that assists in long distance casting
- A well-balanced, solid construction that is durable
- A beautifully smooth drag System
- A very versatile reel that can be used for many applications
Cons
- Some anglers say that they are too fast on the retrieve and need to slow them down with felt washers. This is down to personal preference though.
#5. Sonik Turbospod Reel 14000
Ultra-Fast Retrieval
The Sonik Turbospod Reel 14000 is a purpose-built spodding machine that punches above its price point. With a rapid 5.7:1 gear ratio delivering 1.45 metres per turn, your arm will genuinely thank you after a long session of putting out spods at distance compared to using a slower reel.
The build is reassuringly solid. A hi-strength graphite body and rotor, stainless steel main shaft, and 8+1 shielded bearings give you a reel that feels built to last. The CNC aluminium handle is a quality touch, and the silk black anodised finish looks the part. The open bail rotor lock is a standout feature at this price, preventing that moment when your bail snaps shut mid-cast and your loaded spod goes nowhere.
Where the Turbospod really impresses is the casting system. Super-slow oscillation lays braid down in precise parallel wraps on the shallow-cast spool, meaning line peels off cleanly and consistently every time. The oversized twist-free line roller and triple captive line clips add genuine practicality rather than just spec sheet padding.
It doesn't match the silky refinement of the premium Shimano or Daiwa spod reels, and at 680g it's not the lightest option out there. But for the vast majority of anglers who want a dependable, high-performing spod reel without spending over the odds, the Turbospod is genuinely hard to beat.
Pros
- ✓ Rapid 5.7:1 gear ratio with 1.45m retrieve per turn makes spodding at pace far less tiring across long sessions
- ✓ Super-slow oscillation and shallow-cast spool lay braid down in tight parallel wraps for consistent casting distance
- ✓ Open bail rotor lock prevents the bail snapping shut mid-cast, a feature usually found on pricier reels
- ✓ Solid build with hi-strength graphite body, stainless steel main shaft, and 8+1 shielded bearings
- ✓ Includes a Sonik branded finger stall for braid casting, saving you buying one separately
Cons
- ✗ At 680g it's heavier than some competitors, so if lightweight gear is a priority it's worth comparing against carbon-bodied alternatives
- ✗ Only available in the 14000 size, so there's no smaller option for anglers who prefer a more compact spod reel setup
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An Excellent Spod / Marker Reel
#6. Avid Pro Marker Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 7.5
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.0
Value For Money - 8.0
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So first up, yes its nice to have a reel in this list that isnt made by Shimano or Daiwa. Having said that the Avid XR pro deserves its place as one of the top spod reels on the market.
It features a gear ratio of 5.7:1, which is lightning fast on the retrieve, while its slow oscillation system delivers excellent line lay.
The solid construction is highlighted by its high-grade graphite body and stainless steel ball bearings, which provide both durability and a smooth operation. Additionally, the dual line clips and fast drag system enhance its functionality, making it a versatile and user-friendly choice.
With an overall rating of 7.8, the Avid Pro Spod Marker Reel is noted for its balance of quality and value for money.
The reel’s ergonomic handle with a soft-touch knob ensures comfort during intensive use, and the quick drag system allows for easy adjustments when doubled up as a marker reel.
At under £100, the Avid Pro Spod / Marker Reel offers impressive features typically found in higher-priced models.
This reel is a great option for both novice and experienced anglers looking for a dependable spod reel that performs well under various conditions.
Pros
- Robust and durable construction
- Super fast retrieval
- Smooth and quick adjust drag system
- Excellent line lay thanks to the slow oscillation
- Dual-line clips
Cons
- I personally cant see any cons although some anglers may turn their nose up at a brand that isnt reknowned for producing quality reels.
Best Budget Spod Reel
#7. Sonik HeroX Spod Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 7.5
Cast & Retrieve - 7.0
Drag / Clutch - 7.5
Value For Money - 9.0
Compare Prices
The Sonik HeroX Spod Reel is an impressive all-rounder in the budget spod reel category, offering standout performance for its price.
With an overall rating of 7.8 out of 10, it comfortably bridges the gap between affordability and solid, on-the-bank usability.
Constructed with a lightweight graphite body and rotor, the HeroX is both robust and easy to handle during long baiting sessions.
Its sleek matte black finish and CNC-machined aluminium handle with a dark wood barrel give it a refined appearance rarely seen at this price point.
The reel comes pre-loaded with 200m of 30lb Hypa-Viz braid, making it ready to go out of the box, a huge convenience, especially for new anglers or those after a backup spod setup.
Functionally, the HeroX shines thanks to its 4.6:1 gear ratio, which retrieves up to 1.10m of line per turn, helping to speed up repetitive spodding.
Features like the Heli Coil ultra-flat line lay, wormshaft gearing, and twin spring-loaded line clips enhance casting accuracy and line management.
While it lacks the long-term refinement of premium spod reels, the Quick-Torque drag system and oversized twist-free line roller add surprising versatility, especially for crossover use with marker floats or even light fishing duties.
At around £55–£60 including braid, the Sonik HeroX represents excellent value, making it a top pick for budget-conscious anglers or anyone wanting a dependable spod reel that just works.
Pros
- Pre-loaded with 30lb braid and ready to go out the box
- Smooth wormshaft gearing and ultra-flat line lay aid casting accuracy
- Twin E-Z-Entry line clips are reliable and user-friendly
- An excellent drag system for the money
- Great value for money for entry and mid-level anglers
Cons
- Slower retrieval rate than its premium competitors
- Graphite body won't be as durable long-term as alloy-bodied reels
FAQs
Here are some of the frequently asked questions, eTackle get asked about spod reels:
While technically possible, using a regular reel for spodding is not recommended. Standard fishing reels are designed primarily for playing fish and often lack the high retrieve rates, robust construction, and dedicated features needed for spodding.
Spod reels, on the other hand, are built to handle the heavy loads and frequent casting associated with this method. They feature strong line clips, high retrieval rates, and durable components that ensure longevity and efficiency during spodding sessions.
Yes, you can use a spod reel for fishing, but it may not be ideal. Spod reels are designed for heavy-duty tasks like spodding, featuring large spools, high retrieval rates, and durable components.
While these features can be advantageous for fishing, especially when casting long distances or dealing with heavy lines, the reel’s weight and specific design might not provide the best experience for regular fishing.
It’s more practical to use a reel specifically designed for the type of fishing you plan to do for optimal performance and comfort.
For your spod reel, it’s best to use a braided line, typically at least 30lb test strength. Braided lines are preferred because they have minimal stretch, providing better accuracy and control during casting.
Additionally, braid’s thin diameter helps achieve greater casting distances, which can be crucial for effective spodding.
Final Thoughts
In summary, selecting the right spod reel is crucial for efficient and effective spodding. The reels featured in this article offer a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
By considering factors such as spool size, retrieve rate, line clips, and overall durability, you can make an informed decision and invest in a reel that will not only enhance your spodding experience but also withstand the rigours of intense use.
With the right spod reel in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to bait up your swim accurately and efficiently, increasing your chances of success on the bank.
Thanks for reading.
Tight Lines!
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