Carp fishing is by far the most popular branch of angling in the UK today, with more and more anglers enjoying the relaxing and often social experience of sitting behind their rods and catching big fish. If you are new to fishing or have been fishing for a while and want to venture into carp fishing—or "the dark side," as it is sometimes called—you may be concerned about the costs involved.
However, thanks to the popularity of carp fishing and the wide range of manufacturers, there are some incredible pieces of tackle that won’t break the bank. Yes, if you have more to spend, you can opt for the best carp reels money can buy, but at the budget end, there are some fantastic options that will not only look great on your rods but also help you land the biggest carp around.
Best budget carp reels at a glance
When you hear the term "budget carp reels," you might assume they are only for beginners or that they will need replacing after a season. However, nothing could be further from the truth. The examples in this list are built to last for years and will hopefully have you jumping out of your bedchair to the sound of singing alarms, season after season!
Best carp reel under £100
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When distance is a priority the Daiwa Crosscast 35 SCWQD is designed to help you cast your line to the horizon and reel in a big un. One standout feature is the 'Slow Cross Wrap' (SCW) which allows the line to wind onto the spool in a unique manner, enabling it to come off smoothly during casting.
Featuring Quick Drag (QD) If a large fish starts to pull hard, you can easily loosen the drag to give it some line without risking a break. Just as quickly tighten it back up to gain control. The reel is constructed from a durable material ensuring it remains lightweight yet strong. It also features ‘Digigear 2’ a system, providing incredibly smooth operation when you turn the handle, along with ‘Air Rotor’ that enhances balance whilst keeping weight down.
Featuring a LC-ABS Spool which optimises line release for longer casts, and ‘Twistbuster 2’ line roller that will minimise tangles and twist ups. With standard features like anti reverse and manual trip bail arm so you don’t crack off by accidently engaging the bail arm. The robust aluminium spool and handle will keep this reel going for a long time.
I bought these reels before upgrading, but I find myself using them as much or more than the upgrades I purchased because of how well they perform, I even take them sea fishing! Also the quick drag is such a great feature, it is hard to use a standard drag after using it, a quarter of a turn and you have a reel in freespool, awesome!
Pros
- Quick drag system is a joy to use
- Great for all aspects of day ticket carp fishing
- Long cast spool aids casting
Cons
- The bail arm is a little clunky but does get better with use
Best budget big pit reel
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If you are a fan of big pit reels and need something that will cope with casting long distances and have less than £60 to spend, the Wychwood Riot 75 Black reels are ideal for you! The previous Riot models were bestsellers and big hits for Wychwood and the anglers that used them, thanks to their reliability and entry-level price point, thankfully they have updated them to make them look even better for modern day carp fishing. The wooden handle and matt black finish are particularly pleasing on the eye, making for a reel that looks far more expensive than it actually costs.
The spools on these reels are tapered, which is believed to help the line peel off the reel easier, to help gain those crucial extra yards which can be the difference between catching and not on some venues. The line lay is beautiful on these reels, we would say its better than some reels costing over five times the price, and if you are new to using big pit reels, this will really aid their use, preventing tangles and crack offs!
Pros
- Superb looking reel
- Perfect big pit for beginners
- Spare spool included
Cons
- The line clip could be a little better
Best budget spod reel
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If you're looking for a spod reel that does it all at a fraction of the price of flagship models, the Sonik Hero X Spod is the perfect choice. Sleek in design and high in performance, it comes pre-loaded with quality 30lb Hypa-Viz braid, saving you the hassle of selecting and spooling braid yourself.
The Heli-Coil gearing makes retrieving spods and Spombs (especially those that don’t open) incredibly easy, thanks to its 110cm retrieval rate. If you like to apply large quantities of bait at range but worry about arm fatigue, this reel will make the process far more manageable.
The line lay on these reels is superb, significantly reducing wind knots, tangles, and crack-offs—common issues when using braided mainlines, just be sure to soak the braid thoroughly before each use!
Another standout feature is the two spring-loaded line clips, which are incredibly useful when fishing multiple spots. You can clip up to two locations or, if you're feature-finding, save a few areas to explore later if nothing better presents itself, because we have all found a spot thinking we will find something better only to not be able to find it again!
Overall, this reel offers exceptional value for both spod and marker work. Even if you’re primarily a carp angler and looking to upgrade, the Sonik Hero X Spod will handle all your spodding needs for years to come!
Pros
- Loaded wit quality braid
- Lightweight
- 110cm retrieval rate is perfect for spodding
Cons
- You may need to add a shockleader for big, heavy spombs
Best budget floater fishing reel
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If you enjoy surface fishing for carp, the Fox EOS 10000 is a magnificent little reel for all your floater fishing needs! Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to use and comfortable to hold for extended periods, yet it still packs plenty of cranking power to handle carp of any size.
The oversized handle knob provides a secure grip, which is especially useful if you like to add oil to your floating baits as slippery hands can make more dainty reels difficult operate. The drag system is silky smooth too, helping to prevent line breakages and hook pulls, which can occur when floater fishing due to the lighter hook lengths and smaller hooks typically used to outsmart wary carp.
Beyond surface fishing, this reel is also great for barbel fishing or can be paired with a specimen rod for carp fishing on the float. For the price and versatility it offers, it's definitely worth having a couple ready in the garage!
Pros
- Perfect reel for floater fishing
- Makes a great reel for float fishing for carp too
Cons
- Spare spools aren't included
Best budget carp reel for stalking
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The Daiwa 20 GS BR LT 5000 represents a remarkable evolution of a legendary reel. Utilising their latest light and tough (LT) technology, Daiwa has crafted a lighter and more durable version of one of the most iconic free spool reels and we just know these are going to be as popular as the older version!
This reel is perfect for short to medium range work, and stalking. While you can use it on 12-13ft rods for your normal carp fishing scenarios, they are much better suited to short rods or boat work as the spool and retrieval rate will hamper distance. Featuring a one-touch folding handle, this reel allows for compact storage while still attached to the rod, making it ideal for storing pre-rigged setups when a mobile approach is necessary. It also allows you to be extra "carpy" if you like to fold the handles when the rod is out in the lake!
The combination of a smooth drag and powerful performance ensures this reel can tackle any scenario, whether you're reeling in large fish or utilising the free spool system awaiting those ‘one toner’ bites. We really think the gold spool sets the reel apart from many others and adds a touch of class to your rods when they are sat on them!
A feature-rich reel, for relatively not a lot of money, you don’t need to look much further than the Daiwa 20 GS BR LT.
Pros
- The lightweight nature and one touch folding handle make it the perfect reel for a roving setup
- Its smooth drag and freespool function will give confidence when battling hard fighting barbel
Cons
- No spare spool supplied
| Gear ratio: | 4.6:1 |
| Line capacity: | 0.30mm/300m, 0.33mm/250m |
Best budget baitrunner reel
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Baitrunners are among the most commonly used reels for anglers starting their journey in carp fishing, and the Shimano Baitrunner ST RB 10000 continues to uphold the reputation set by its best-selling predecessors, offering a high-quality reel at an affordable price.
Strong and sturdy, these Shimano reels are built to last. They feature a silky-smooth rear drag and the ever-reliable Baitrunner freespool system, keeping you in control of the fish from the moment you get a bite to the instant you slip your net under it. If you find front drags fiddly or often forget to set them, the Baitrunner feature engages with a simple click of a switch, making it ideal for anglers of all experience levels.
Due to their size, these reels are perfect for a lighter second setup. If you enjoy stalking or floater fishing, they excel in those situations too! I have personally had a set of these for my pike and carp fishing and after five years, they haven't skipped a beat and I don't mind saying they've been beaten about a bit!
Other features include Varispeed gearing, an ARC line system, and a durable XT7 molded body. This reel also transitions seamlessly into other styles of fishing, making it well-suited for targeting all large freshwater species.
Pros
- Smooth drag
- Quality build
- Easy to setup and use
Cons
- Not built for long-range casting
Best budget carp reel under £50
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Specifically designed for targeting large carp and making long casts, the Okuma Custom Carp 7000 offers exceptional value for money. This impressive reel boasts a generous line capacity and a fast gear ratio, allowing for quick rig retrieval while delivering a smooth winding experience—helping to reduce those hating hook pulls!
With its slim, sleek design, this reel not only performs well but also looks great on any carp rod. The aluminium spool, paired with a line-safe metal clip, gives it a pleasing aesthetic. But it’s not all about looks—its accurate and responsive drag system allows for much better control while playing carp, making it an excellent choice if you're not yet used to handling big fish.
A standout feature of the Custom Carp 7000 is the extra spool, allowing for quick and easy line changes. Many fisheries have specific rules regarding line types, or you may need different strengths depending on the venue—but with this reel, you can switch in seconds without needing a whole new setup.
Additionally, the aluminium handle folds down for easy storage or to add a carpy touch if you prefer to keep handles folded while fishing.
A sturdy, reliable reel with a spare spool that’s capable of landing big carp—all for under £50. What’s not to love?
Pros
- Supplied with a spare spool
- Folding handle
Cons
- The look might be too minimalist for some, others will love it
Best budget carp reel under £75
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Sonik VaderX Pro 10000 Carbon offers exceptional value for money! Primarily designed for long-distance casting, its standout feature is the "Wormshaft Transmission," which ensures your fishing line is laid on the spool perfectly. Additionally, the innovative "floating rotor line guard" prevents frustrating spool wrap overs that can cause issues. With these two working in tandem, you can expect great casting distances to come from these reels with a decent technique, perfect for anglers who fish both big and small waters.
Despite its robust design, this reel is surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its carbon body and rotor and with just a single turn of the handle, it can retrieve over a meter of line, making it exceptionally fast at retrieving rigs! The line friendly 'captive line clips’ allow for precise casting, along with a ‘quick torque drag system’ that gives you control with a simple turn of the drag knob. The drag system incorporates carbon, ensuring it operates smoothly and reliably for many years which, put simply, will increase the amount of fish you land!
Not only is this reel functional, but it also has a striking appearance with its sleek carbon finish. Equipped with ‘instant anti-reverse,’ you can choose to back wind while battling a fish. The ‘oversized twist-free line roller’ keeps your line running smoothly avoiding twisting when retrieving and the aluminium handle featuring a comfortable wooden grip, you would be forgiven in thinking this reel costs twice the price.
Pros
- Relatively lightweight for its size
- Excellent line lay thanks to wormshaft transmission
Cons
- Not supplied with a spare spool (available separately)
Best budget spod reel under £50
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Let’s face it—spod reels take a lot of punishment on the bank. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a reliable and durable option, as the Wychwood Dispatch Spod Reel proves. Not only is this an absolute workhorse, but it also comes pre-loaded with 200m of 30lb braid, saving you the hassle of spooling it yourself—all for under £50, we’d call that a steal too!
The Dispatch Spod Reel boasts an exceptional retrieval rate of 1m per turn, making baiting up quick and effortless. However, what truly sets it apart is its smooth and efficient gearing, which makes winding in a spod or Spomb much easier on your arms. Lightweight and uncomplicated, this reel is designed for maximum reliability, wiith fewer moving parts to go wrong, it can withstand the rigours of heavy baiting sessions, even crunching through any particles that may find their way under the spool—continuing to reel as if nothing happened!
Most importantly they won't damage easily so despite punishment or the occasional drop to the floor when one of your rods burst into life as you are baiting up, it will be ready for the next hit of bait!
Pros
- Comes loaded with 200m of braid to save any hassle
- Uncompliacted and built to be abused
Cons
- A longer spool version would be great for really long casting
Best budget distance casting carp reel
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If you're looking for a versatile and lightweight reel, the Fox EOS 12000 offers exceptional performance and value, making it ideal for targeting large carp. With its responsive front drag system, you can precisely control tension for optimal fish-playing control.
These reels are true all-rounders—perfect for both short- and long-range work, and they can even double as a spod reel if needed!The EOS 12000FD features a 5.5:1 gear ratio for efficient line retrieval, a rotor balance profile for smooth, vibration-free operation, and a line-friendly clip.
The large handle provides powerful cranking, ensuring effortless retrieval. The powerful front drag, featuring Mesh-Tec technology, can handle even the largest carp, while the ample spool capacity accommodates plenty of braid or monofilament.
The excellent line lay improves casting accuracy and helps prevent tangles. Simply put, this is a great, solid reel for anyone who enjoys all styles of carp fishing but doesn’t want to spend a fortune on a high-end model. The EOS 12000 delivers top-tier performance at a fraction of the price!
Pros
- Capable reel with 40mm spool to assist in distance casting
- Large ergonomic handle
Cons
- Not the lightest reel
What to look for in a budget carp reel
When it comes to choosing a budget carp reel there are key features you need to look for. Firstly, what size rod are you coupling the reel up with and what do you want it to do? If you need to cast a long distance on a bigger rod of 12ft-13ft, opt for a big pit reel or something over 6000 in size as they will have a bigger spool and better retrieval rate for casting and reeling at distance.
If you have just started carp fishing, but think it will be the style of angling you want to pursue, spending a little more on your reel is wise as it will mean you don't have to upgrade too soon as you buy new bivvies and rods as you progress.
If you fish a multitude of waters, it may be best to also look for a reel that has a spare spool. Many waters vary in their rules and what mainline you can use, so having different options at hand like braid and mono is much easier. The drag system on a budget carp reel can make all the difference to how easy it is to use and land fish. If you fish runswaters and are expecting to be setting your rods a lot, a reel with a quick drag will make life a lot easier, alternatively if you struggle fiddling with the front drag, a bait runner reel might be a better option for you!
Don't forget your spod reels, many top anglers use cheaper spod reels simply because they are no-nonsense, durable and get the job done. If you can get one with braid already spooled on too, great, as it saves any headaches choosing and spooling it up yourself!
Glossary
Backwind/Anti-reverse: This is a feature that lets you turn the handle backwards, releasing line. It's helpful when a big fish is pulling hard, and you need to give it some line without messing with the drag.
Ball Bearings: These are little metal balls inside the reel that help it turn smoothly. More ball bearings often mean smoother reeling.
Big Pit Reel: A large reel designed for long-distance casting. It holds lots of line and has a big spool.
Drag: This is the system that controls how much resistance a fish feels when it pulls on the line. You can adjust it to prevent your line from snapping.
Gear Ratio: This tells you how many times the spool (the part that holds the line) turns for each turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio means you reel in line faster.
Graphite: A strong, lightweight material used to make reel bodies and spools.
Line Capacity: This is how much fishing line the reel can hold. It's usually shown as a measurement like '300m/0.35mm.'
Line Clip: A small clip on the spool that holds your line in place when you're not casting or if you want to cast a certain distance.
Line Roller: A small roller on the bail arm (the part that flips over when you cast) that guides the line onto the spool.
Spool: The part of the reel that holds the fishing line.
Worm Gear: A type of gear system inside the reel that helps the line lay evenly on the spool.
Anti-Reverse: A feature that stops the reel handle from turning backwards.
Bail Arm: The semi circle metal part that you flip open to cast, and close to reel in line.
Can a cheap carp reel really handle big fish?
Yes, they can! Budget reels have gotten way better. Look for ones with a strong drag system and a good amount of line capacity. Just remember, even with a strong reel, you'll still need to learn how to play the fish properly!
What does 'line capacity' mean?
That's how much fishing line the reel can hold. It's usually shown as a number like "300m/0.35mm," which means it can hold 300 meters of 0.35mm thick line. If you're fishing at distance, you'll want a reel with a higher line capacity.
What's a 'gear ratio'?
Think of it like gears on a bike. It tells you how many times the line spool turns for each turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio means you reel in line faster. So if you want to retrieve your line quickly, look for a higher gear ratio.
What's the 'drag' for?
The drag lets line slip off the spool when a fish pulls hard. It stops your line from snapping. You can adjust it to control how much resistance the fish feels. A good, smooth drag is super important for landing big carp.
Do I need a 'big pit' reel?
'Big pit' reels are large reels designed for long distance casting. If you plan on fishing large bodies of water and will fish at distance, then yes, they are advantageous. But smaller reels can still catch carp.
Are metal spools better than graphite ones?
Generally metal spools are more robust than graphite. But modern graphite spools are also very strong, they are also more lightweight than metal and help reduce the overall weight of the reel. So both have their advantages.
Will a cheap reel last long?
It depends on how well you look after it! Clean it with fresh water after fishing, and keep it oiled. With good care, a budget reel can last for ages.
What reel do I need for carp fishing?
Carp are powerful fish so your reel needs to be able to cope with the added stress these fish put on tackle. A big pit reel or a Baitrunner is usually the best option, aiming for reels above 5000 in size.
Author Aidan Bordiuk is an enthusiastic angler who enjoys all fishing disciplines from match fishing to beach casting. He is currently occupying the position of Commercial Content Writer at Angling Times.