Best Shimano Spinning Reels With Trigger—Our Top Picks In 2024
A smooth and effortless casting experience depends on the casting ability of the reel. Shimano boasts about having the best feature in this regard.
So, if you want to take your fishing experience to the next level, then look no further. We have scoured the market and handpicked the best Shimano spinning reels with triggers just for you.
These spinning reels are equipped with Shimano’s exclusive QuickFire II mechanism that provides fast and easy one-handed casts.
After extensive research and rigorous testing, we were also able to find spinning reels from other brands that have a similar mechanism and offer satisfactory casting performance.
Get ready, gear up, and dive into our amazing list of the 7 best Shimano spinning reels in 2023 that we have tested and reviewed just for you.
Top 7 Best Shimano Spinning Reels with Trigger in 2023 Reviewed
1. Shimano IX Rear Drag—Best Shimano Spinning Reel with Trigger
The Shimano IX series is a renowned spinning reel that comes with QuickFire technology. The rear-drag freshwater reel offers one of the most reliable and affordable fishing experiences.
With Shimano’s exclusive QuickFire II technology, this reel makes casting a breeze. You can cast lines with one hand quickly and easily.
If you haven’t used this before, then you will notice a significant difference in your casting experience. The trigger provides an easy grasp for your index finger, which allows for one-handed casting.
Adding to this, the Shimano IX spinning reel comes in a lightweight design and is made from graphite which is comfortable to hold and reduces overall what.
The graphite frame, rotor, side plate, and spool reduce the overall weight of the reel, providing you with perfect strength and durability for both freshwater and inshore saltwater use.
Moreover, this reel can be used for a wide range of fishing applications. It can be used with mono, fluorocarbon, and Power Pro lines, which really enhances its fishing capabilities.
Also, the reel comes for an affordable price. You can also consider it the best budget Shimano spinning reel with the trigger. Despite having a low cost, it ensures impressive performance and functionality.
On the downside, this spinning reel has limited drag and only allows you to go after a limited number of fish species. You may also like to check Best Shimano Spinning Reels.
Why Consider Shimano IX Rear Drag Freshwater Spinning Reel?
If you are looking for an affordable spinning reel by Shimano that comes with a trigger for easier casting, then this is the perfect option to go with. The Shimano IX spinning reel is definitely one of the best when it comes to casting.
- Quick Fire II technology
- Lightweight design
- Versatile performance
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Rated for fresh and saltwater use
- Comfortable grip
- Low max drag
- Limited line capacity
2. SYNCOPATE FG—Best Shimano Spinning Reel with QuickFire II
Shimano Syncopate FG is one of the top-performing spinning reels that offers efficient and reliable performance at an affordable price.
This particular reel is designed for anglers and fishermen of all levels and experience. Hence, this reel is an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
The most notable feature is without a doubt the QuickFire II technology, which enhances the casting ability of the reel, making it super easy and fast.
Additionally, the Varispeed technology ensures consistent spool speeds, making this reel a suitable choice for a wide range of fishing applications.
Casting is further enhanced with the Propulsion Line Management System which provides longer casting distance by preventing backlashes. It also prevents wind knots from forming on the line.
Hence, if you want to cast the lure at longer distances, then this reel is a perfect choice for you.
Adding to this, the Dyna-balance technology is also incorporated which eliminates wobble during the retrieve. This feature upgrades the sensitivity and smoothness of the retrieve, making it easier for beginners.
Moreover, the advanced design of the reel provides plenty of power along with smooth and efficient performance for a variety of fishing experiences.
Check Best Shimano Spinning Reel For Crappie
On the downside, the reel is designed for freshwater application and might not be suitable for larger game fishing.
Why Consider SYNCOPATE FG?
Overall, the Syncopate FG is an excellent choice for a reliable fishing experience. It combines several of Shimano’s exclusive innovations to take your fishing game to the next level.
- Affordable price
- Easy casting
- Consistent spool speeds
- Enhanced sensitivity and smoothness
- Propulsion Line Management System
- Lightweight and compact design
- Equipped with 4BB + 1RB bearings
- Shorter Line Retrieve
- Not Suitable for Heavy Game Fishing
3. SHIMANO Spirex 2500FG—Best Premium Shimano Spinning Reel with Trigger
Shimano Spirex 2500FG is the last of the Shimano spinning reels that feature QuickFire II technology and is also the most expensive of the three.
The higher cost is justified by the premium design and advanced features this amazing reel offers.
You will get exceptional performance and reliability that makes casting effortless and fast.
This particular reel is equipped with stainless steel A-RB bearings, which ensure smoother retrieves and a comfortable casting experience.
Adding to this, it is also equipped with a Super Stopper II Anti-reverse system that provides instant hook setting power. Hence, you will be able to reel in your catch with much more confidence and with ease.
Moreover, the Dyna-Balance technology enhances the sensitivity of the reel by counterbalancing the rotor.
What makes the reel really special is the computer-balanced rotor, which amazingly redistributes the weight, and creates smooth rotation which reduces the vibrations inside the reel.
Hence, you will get consistent and high-quality performance for an efficient and reliable fishing experience.
On the downside, this reel is a bit expensive compared to the other two Shimano models. So, you will have to save a bit extra to get your hands on this one.
Check Best Shimano Reels For Walleye.
Why Consider SHIMANO Spirex 2500FG?
Shimano Spirex is a premium spinning reel that comes with an upgraded trigger design, advanced mechanisms, and high-quality construction. A good investment for any angler who plans on making the most of his fishing trips.
- Effortless and Smooth Casting
- Smoother Retrieves
- Instant Hook Setting Power
- Enhanced Sensitivity and Smoothness
- Computer Balanced Rotor
- Premium Quality Materials
- Suitable for both Freshwater and Saltwater Applications
- Higher Price Point Compared to Other Shimano Reels
- Not for Beginners
4. KastKing Summer and Centron—Best Rated Spinning Reel with Trigger
One of the bestselling spinning reels on Amazon, which is the perfect option for you, if you are looking for a spinning reel that comes with a trigger function.
The lightweight and ultra-smooth reel is the ideal choice for anglers who are looking for a budget-friendly reel with high drag capacity.
KastKing reel features a smooth and powerful retrieve function which enhances its application and allows you to use it for a wide range of fishing applications.
Check Best Shimano Spinning Reel For The Money
One of the standout features of this spinning reel is definitely the advanced trigger design which is very similar to Shimano’s Quick Fire feature. The design allows you to cast lines with one hand quickly and easily.
Also, this particular design makes the reel comfortable to grip, which ensures reeling in is a lot easier.
Adding to this, the KastKing reel also features an anti-twist line controller that prevents line tangles and allows for a smoother casting experience.
The excellent drag system with impressive max capacity provides additional control and allows you to use the reel for a wide range of fishing applications.
Moreover, this spinning reel is crafted with a graphite body and rotor, which reduces the overall weight without sacrificing any of the strength or durability. The sturdy device is built-to-last and ensures long-lasting performance.
The casting ability of the reel is further enhanced with a stainless steel ball-bearing system which makes casting long lines a breeze.
On the downside, the reel is not designed for saltwater application and is only recommended for use in freshwater.
Why Consider KastKing Summer and Centron Spinning Reel?
Considering the price factor, this is definitely one of the best reels that you can find. It is the best-selling reel with top ratings even on Amazon. So, if you are not going with Shimano, then this is your next best option.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design
- Smooth Casting Ability
- Durable and Sturdy Construction
- Smooth and Powerful Retrieve
- Affordable Price
- Ergonomic Handle
- Superior Drag Capacity
- Not Recommended for Saltwater
- No Propulsion Line Management System
5. Daiwa Underspin-XD Series—Best Daiwa Spinning Reel with Trigger
The basic purpose one would go for a spinning reel with the trigger is to make casting easier, especially for beginners.
Daiwa Underspin-XD Series spinning reel brings you just that in a closed-face design that perfectly combines the balance of a spinning reel with the casting ease of a spin-cast reel.
This versatile tool is designed to work with a wide range of rods and provides you with an ultra-light fishing experience in freshwater.
One of the prominent features of this reel is the rigid aluminum alloy construction which ensures the durability and rigidity of the reel without compromising its weight.
Hence, if you are looking for a reel that doesn’t cause strain because of weight and is durable without question, you won’t find a better product on the list.
Adding to this, the casting performance of the reel is improved with an oversized line aperture, which provides anglers with an easier and more enjoyable fishing experience.
Moreover, the smooth ball bearing drive and rugged metal gearing provides a smoother retrieve, ensuring a friction-free fishing experience.
Also, the Soft-touch design of the handle makes reeling a breeze, even in wet and unsavory conditions.
On the downside, the reel comes with a rear drag, instead of a front. So, some users have complained about struggling with drag adjustments. That won’t be much of a problem once you get used to it.
Why Consider the Daiwa Underspin-XD Series?
Daiwa is the only competitor of Shimano in the big game. This reel certainly creates strong competition for Shimano reels with the trigger. Although some users have faced issues because of rear drag, the overall performance of the reel is satisfactory.
- Rugged Metal Gearing
- Heavy-Duty Durable Construction
- Trigger-Control Feature
- Ease of Spincast Reel in Spinning Reel
- Soft Touch Grip
- Oversized Line Retrieve
- Some users complained about struggling with drag control
- The reel lacks continuous anti-reverse
6. Abu-Garcia Abumatic 276UI—Best Closed Face Spinning Reel with Trigger
A top-of-the-line spinning reel designed by one of the renowned manufacturers around the world. The Abu Garcia Abumatic 276UI is designed for ultimate performance and reliability.
This spinning reel features an impressive Dura-Gear drive system with instant anti-reverse bearing and an optimum drag capacity.
With the dual-rotating swing arm, you can be assured that your casting line will remain in place and free from any tangles or wind knots. It will also enhance the casting and retrieving ability of the reel.
Adding to this, the Abumatic spinning reel comes with an ultra-smooth drag system which is easier to adjust. Hence, you can improvise during the tackle and make sure you get your price.
One of the most distinguishing features of this reel is the pre-spooled 8-pound Berkley Trilene XL line, which is already included in the reel. This high-quality fishing line provides excellent sensitivity and strength.
Moreover, the titanium nitride line ensures a smoother and longer-lasting casting experience that won’t wear out anytime soon.
Why Consider Abu-Garcia Abumatic 276UI?
Abu Garcia Abumatic is one of the best spinning reels with a trigger and offers reliable functionality. With the pre-spooled line, you can go fishing right away. Just mount the reel on the rod and you are ready to go.
- Dual Rotating Swing Arm Pick Up Pins
- Instant Anti-Reverse Bearing
- Advanced Spool Drag System
- Pre-Spooled With 8-Pound Berkley Trilene XL Line
- Smooth and Long-Lasting Line
- Dura-Gear Drive
- One-Year Warranty
- Smaller Gear Ratio
- Limited Max Drag Capacity
7. Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel—Best Open Face Spinning Reel with Trigger
Last but not the least, we have another renowned spinning reel brand, Pflueger, which is one of the top-performing spinning reel brands in the industry.
With its 10-bearing system that is made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings, the reel offers a smooth and reliable casting experience.
It is also made from graphite which ensures both a lightweight design and sturdy durability.
As an angler, if you are looking for optimum performance with high versatility, you won’t find a better reel.
One of the standout features of this reel is that it comes with a braid-ready spool. You don’t need a backing line and can attach the braid directly to the spool.
Adding to this, the Carbon Fiber drag system provides you with powerful drag without compromising the smoothness or consistency of the cast.
Moreover, the trigger function of this reel is also very similar to Shimano, which is designed for an easier casting experience. The trigger is very ergonomic and gives an intuitive feel.
On the downside, the price of this spinning reel is slightly higher than other products we have discussed on this list. Besides that particular point, in my opinion, it is one of the best reels you can get for the money.
Why Consider Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel?
A good and reliable spinning reel that comes with an impressive drag system and a braid-ready spool. The Pflueger President spinning reel offers a wide range of fishing applications and the trigger function enhances the casting abilities, allowing you to cast with one hand.
- Corrosion Resistant Ball Bearings
- Lightweight Construction
- Smooth Casting Ability
- Carbon Fiber Drag System
- Braid Ready Spool
- Trigger Function
- No Anti-Reverse on the Reel
- Higher Price Point
How to Select the Best Shimano Reels with Trigger 2023—Buyer’s Guide
Selecting the best reel with the trigger is quite difficult, especially because you don’t have that many options available.
Even then, we were able to find several options in the market and handpick the 7 best products for you that come with a trigger function.
However, when you have to select one, you will have to consider some important aspects to make sure the product meets your needs and budget.
So, I will be discussing some of the most important factors that are decisive in the choice of the right spinning reel with a trigger.
Here we go:
Brand
First of all, I would recommend that you go with Shimano. Shimano is one of the most renowned spinning reel brands that produce some of the best reels in the world. There is no doubt about that.
Their Quick Fire II advanced technology really sets them apart from the rest of the reels and certainly makes them the best reels with the trigger.
However, if you can’t find a Shimano reel or do not prefer one for some reason, I have also shared the next best options in the above guide that come with a similar trigger mechanism.
Construction
The Build and material of any spinning reel are one of the most important factors. A spinning reel that is made with alloy or blend is more suitable as it enhances the durability of the reel without compromising the weight.
Hence, you will get reliable performance from the reel without losing the important lightweight comfort which doesn’t cause any strain on your wrist while casting.
Casting Ability
If you are looking for a spinning reel with a trigger, then you definitely are looking for easier casting ability. Hence, you should go for a reel that provides the easiest casting experience.
Ideally, that would be a spincast reel, but those reels really limit your options when it comes to fishing applications. You can only go after a limited number of fish species with those reels.
So, your next best option is spinning reels, but they don’t usually come with a trigger function. A spinning reel with a trigger is a combination of spinning and spin cast reel that provides functions of both.
You can look for these features in some specific reels and then whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, you will have an easy and smooth casting experience.
Drag Limit
Drag is also an important aspect as it decides the fishing application of your spinning reel. With a higher drag limit, you can go after more fishing species and larger fishes.
Consider this aspect in relation to the types of fish you are going after and then select the size of the spinning reel that offers a drag limit which is optimum for those species.
Line Capacity
Consider the line capacity of the reel, as this will determine how many lines you can store on the spool. Look for a reel with a line capacity that fits your fishing needs.
The reels we have discussed above do have a limited line capacity, but you can increase that capacity by increasing the size of the reel. These reels come in various sizes and obviously larger sizes have more line capacity.
Budget
When you go after premium features and more line capacity, it will cost you extra. You can consider it a good investment if you are planning to use the reel for the long term.
However, if you are running low on budget, we have shared several good options you can go with. So, it isn’t always necessary to go above your budget just for some attractive features.
Consider what is important and don’t compromise your budget for unnecessary features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Takeaways: Which is the Best Shimano Spinning Reel with Trigger in 2023?
The best Shimano spinning reel with trigger function aka Quick Fire II technology enhances your casting ability, making it really easy for beginners to cast lines at longer distances.
Not just beginners, but even seasoned anglers can really benefit from this function and improve their fishing game.
If I were to recommend one, I would definitely recommend you to go with the Shimano IX spinning reel which comes for an affordable price and offers a reliable trigger function.
On the other hand, if you have a good budget and are looking for the best bang for the buck, then you should go with Shimano Spirex which provides some additional premium features for the heavy fishing game along with trigger functionality.
If Shimano is not your preferred brand, then KastKing is your next best option which comes for a more economical price and offers advanced features. Also, it is one of the bestselling spinning reels.
In the end, I would just say that the selection of the best spinning reel with the trigger is a personal choice, but I am sure the above picks and buyer’s guide will help you in making the right decision. Au Revoir!