Best ultralight spinning reel

Best means lots of things to lots of people. Best to me means in a specific price range. I say this because a true "best" from Shimano or Daiwa runs in the $800 - $900 class.

I have a 5’ ugly stick for 40 years, luv it, $50 todays price, catch fat fish on it too… match it wit a ShImanio midget reel, get a combo lots o fun…

welcome aboard PM,

take a peek into the fresh water thread for more info I’m sure… cellfish…
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PSTMacteer - did you ever decide on a cost range?

I have a shimano Vanford 1000,they also make a 500 size if you need smaller.Ive used a bigger 2500 size for light tog jigging and was happy so bought a smaller one for messing around in ponds.Nice reel that weighs nothing and doesn't flex under pressure but your in the $239 range.Im sure you could find something that will do the job for 1/2 that price or less.The daiwa exceller LT comes to mind, I had one of those that I picked up for $65 but YOU COULD FEEL THE REEL FLEXING UNDER PRESSURE on saltwater fish and I hated it.It seemed like a decent reel for short money and I doubt any panfish could put out enough pressure to make the reel flex.It does come in a 1000 size but no 500.

I use a Shimano Stradic 1000 CI4 with 4lb test for panfish and trout around the island. Works for me. Attached to a Loomis rod.