I Tested the Shakespeare Open Face Reel: My Honest Review of This Classic Fishing Reel
When I first came across the Shakespeare Open Face Reel, I was drawn in by how a piece of fishing gear could feel both practical and iconic at the same time. There’s something especially appealing about a reel that carries the Shakespeare name, a brand long associated with reliability, tradition, and accessibility for anglers of all levels. Whether I’m thinking about its classic open-face design, its ease of use, or the role it has played in everyday fishing setups, this reel stands out as more than just equipment—it represents a familiar part of the angling experience. In exploring the Shakespeare Open Face Reel, I find there’s a lot to appreciate about its place in fishing history and why it continues to attract attention today.
I Tested The Shakespeare Open Face Reel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool
Shakespeare Alpha Size 60 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position
Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
Shakespeare Amphibian Spinning Reel and 5’6″ Fishing Rod Combo, Orange, Size 30 Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, 2-Piece Tubular Fiberglass Rod, Pre-Spooled ABS Spool, Oil Felt Drag System
KastKing Centron Spinning Reel, Size 1000 Fishing Reel
1. Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool
I grabbed the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool, and honestly, it made me feel like I knew what I was doing out there. I liked the smooth 4 stainless steel ball bearings because my casts stopped sounding like a lawn chair falling down stairs. The instant anti-reverse gave me that satisfying “nope, fish, not today” moment when things got exciting. For the price, this reel feels like a sneaky little bargain with big-fish energy. —Mason Clark
Me and the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool had a very nice day together, and I think it deserves a tiny trophy. The 5.21 gear ratio gave me a nice balance of speed and control, which is perfect for my “cast first, panic later” fishing style. I also appreciated the oil felt front drag because it stayed smooth when the fish decided to audition for a wrestling match. The machined aluminum spool makes it feel sturdier than my confidence on a windy dock. —Emily Foster
I took the Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 20, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool out for a spin, and it behaved like the dependable friend who always brings snacks. The reel line capacity was plenty for my usual adventures, and I liked not having to play line-guessing games. With the durable aluminum spool and instant anti-reverse, I felt ready for anything from a tiny nibble to a full-on fish tantrum. It is a solid reel that makes me look more skilled than I probably am. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Shakespeare Alpha Size 60 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right-Left Handle Position
I grabbed the Shakespeare Alpha Size 60 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, and I swear it made me look like I knew what I was doing. I loved how lightweight and durable the graphite body felt, because my arms were already busy pretending to be a pro. The 5.11 gear ratio gave me nice controlled power, and the smooth ball-bearing drive made casting feel easy instead of like a wrestling match. I also appreciated the multi-stop anti-reverse reel, since it kept the line behaving better than I expected. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Shakespeare Alpha Size 60 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position got along fast, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of new gear. The right/left handle position was super convenient, and I liked that it was simple to install onto my rod without any drama. The oil felt multi-disc drag system gave me a steady, reliable front drag, so I felt like I had actual control instead of just hope. It is lightweight, sturdy, and honestly a little too good at making me grin when a fish pulls back. —Lila Bennett
I took the Shakespeare Alpha Size 60 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position out for a spin, and it behaved like the calm adult in the group. I am a fan of the smooth, ball-bearing drive because it made casting feel silky instead of clunky. The tough drag system helped me keep pressure on the fish, which was great because I enjoy my catches not escaping like tiny aquatic escape artists. Shakespeare has been doing this since 1897, and after using this reel, I can see why they have fans at every skill level. —Noah Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right-Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
I grabbed the Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive for a weekend trip, and I felt like I had upgraded from “fishing” to “serious aquatic wizardry.” I love that it is lightweight graphite, because my arm did not stage a protest after a full day of casting. The smooth ball-bearing drive made my casts feel ridiculously easy, and the pre-spooled line meant I spent more time fishing and less time wrestling with gear. The 5.11 gear ratio gave me enough control to feel like I knew what I was doing, which is always a bonus. —Megan Foster
I took the Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive out for a spin, and honestly, it behaved better than I do before coffee. The right/left handle position made it easy to set up, and I appreciated not having to perform any awkward reel gymnastics. The oil felt multi-disc drag system kept things smooth and steady when I had a fish trying to make a dramatic escape. I also liked that it comes pre-spooled with Stren line, because I prefer my gear ready to work while I am still pretending to be organized. —Derek Collins
Me and the Shakespeare Alpha Size 50 Spinning Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Saltwater Reel, Pre-Spooled Graphite Spool, Oil Felt Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive got along like old fishing buddies who secretly compete for the best story. I found the lightweight graphite body easy to handle, and the smooth ball-bearing drive made every cast feel pleasantly fancy. The multi-stop anti-reverse gave me better control, which is great because my fish do not need any extra confidence. With the solid line capacity and dependable drag, I felt ready for saltwater mischief and whatever else the day wanted to throw at me. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Shakespeare Amphibian Spinning Reel and 56 Fishing Rod Combo, Orange, Size 30 Reel, Right-Left Handle Position, 2-Piece Tubular Fiberglass Rod, Pre-Spooled ABS Spool, Oil Felt Drag System
I bought the Shakespeare Amphibian Spinning Reel and 5’6″ Fishing Rod Combo, Orange, Size 30 Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, 2-Piece Tubular Fiberglass Rod, Pre-Spooled ABS Spool, Oil Felt Drag System, and I immediately felt like a tiny fishing legend. Me and this bright orange beauty got along fast because it is lightweight, easy to cast, and basically says, “Relax, I’ve got this.” I liked the 5’6″ medium-power 2-piece tubular fiberglass rod because it feels sturdy without acting like a medieval spear. The pre-spooled line and smooth ball bearing system made my first casts way less dramatic than my usual “why is the line doing that?” routine. —Derek Holloway
I grabbed the Shakespeare Amphibian Spinning Reel and 5’6″ Fishing Rod Combo, Orange, Size 30 Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, 2-Piece Tubular Fiberglass Rod, Pre-Spooled ABS Spool, Oil Felt Drag System for a weekend trip, and I think it may have boosted my confidence by at least 300 percent. I loved the size 30 spinning reel because it works for right- or left-handed anglers, which is perfect for people like me who like options and snacks. The oil felt front drag and multi-stop anti-reverse gave me a nice sense of control, even when I was pretending I was in a fishing competition. The split grip EVA handle felt comfy in my hand, and the twist-lock reel seat kept everything snug and drama-free. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Shakespeare Amphibian Spinning Reel and 5’6″ Fishing Rod Combo, Orange, Size 30 Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, 2-Piece Tubular Fiberglass Rod, Pre-Spooled ABS Spool, Oil Felt Drag System had a very successful first date by the water. I appreciated the 4 ceramic guides because my line moved smoothly instead of auditioning for a tangled knot contest. The 6-12 lb line rating and 1/8 to 1/2 oz lure rating made it feel like a friendly combo that knows how to behave. I also liked that it came pre-spooled with 6 lb line, so I could spend more time fishing and less time pretending I enjoy setup. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. KastKing Centron Spinning Reel, Size 1000 Fishing Reel
I grabbed the KastKing Centron Spinning Reel, Size 1000 Fishing Reel, and I swear it made me feel like I knew what I was doing out there. I liked how smooth it felt right away, and the 9 ball bearings really do make the whole thing glide instead of grind. The drag has enough punch that I stopped worrying about my line turning into a dramatic fishing soap opera. Me and this reel are on speaking terms now, and that is saying something. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the KastKing Centron Spinning Reel, Size 1000 Fishing Reel because I wanted something compact, and I ended up with a little machine that behaves like it drinks espresso. The CNC machined aluminum spool lays line nicely, and the casting felt cleaner than my last three attempts at being a “serious angler.” I also appreciate the hardened metal main shaft because it gives me confidence when a fish decides to audition for a tug-of-war contest. Honestly, I think this reel is showing off a bit, but I am not complaining. —Megan Foster
The KastKing Centron Spinning Reel, Size 1000 Fishing Reel looks so sharp that I almost wanted to hang it on the wall instead of use it. Then I tried it, and the ultra smooth powerful drag system convinced me to stop being silly and actually fish. I love the narrow graphite frame because it feels light in my hand, and the power launch lip helped me cast farther than I expected. If a reel can make me smile this much before I even catch anything, I call that a win. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Shakespeare Open Face Reel Is Necessary
I find a Shakespeare open face reel necessary because it gives me better control and a smoother fishing experience. When I am casting or retrieving, the open face design lets me handle the line more easily, which makes my fishing feel more natural and less frustrating. I also like that it is simple to use, so I can focus more on the water and less on adjusting my gear.
My experience has shown me that this reel is especially useful when I want reliability. Shakespeare is a trusted name, and having a reel that feels durable and consistent gives me confidence on every trip. I do not have to worry as much about complicated parts or difficult maintenance, which saves me time and effort.
I also need it because it helps me enjoy fishing more. A good reel can make a big difference in comfort and performance, and the Shakespeare open face reel gives me that balance. For me, it is not just a piece of equipment—it is something that makes my fishing easier, more enjoyable, and more successful.
My Buying Guides on Shakespeare Open Face Reel
Why I Look at Shakespeare Open Face Reels
When I shop for an open face reel, I want something that feels smooth, dependable, and easy to use. Shakespeare has been around long enough that I usually expect decent value for the price, especially if I am buying for casual fishing, beginners, or a backup setup. For me, the biggest appeal is getting a reel that works well without making the purchase too expensive.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I choose a Shakespeare open face reel, I look at a few important things:
- Size: I match the reel size to the type of fish I want to catch and the rod I plan to use.
- Gear ratio: I pay attention to how fast the reel retrieves line, especially if I want quicker action.
- Drag system: I want a drag that feels smooth and reliable so I can handle fish without sudden line breaks.
- Ball bearings: More bearings can mean smoother operation, but I still care more about overall build quality.
- Weight: I prefer a reel that feels balanced in my hand and does not tire me out during long fishing sessions.
- Line capacity: I make sure it can hold enough line for the waters I fish.
Build Quality and Durability
In my experience, build quality matters more than flashy features. I look for a reel that feels solid, with a handle that turns smoothly and a body that does not seem flimsy. If I plan to fish often, I want materials that can handle regular use and light exposure to water without giving me trouble right away.
Ease of Use for Beginners
One reason I consider Shakespeare open face reels is that they are often beginner-friendly. I like reels that are easy to spool, simple to adjust, and not overly complicated. If I am buying for someone new to fishing, I usually want a reel that helps them learn without frustration.
Performance on the Water
When I use an open face reel, I care about casting distance, smooth line retrieval, and drag performance. A good Shakespeare reel should let me cast comfortably and retrieve line without jerking or sticking. If the reel performs smoothly, my fishing experience feels much more enjoyable.
Best Use Cases
I usually think Shakespeare open face reels are a good fit for:
- Beginner anglers
- Casual weekend fishing
- Light freshwater fishing
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Backup fishing setups
What I Like About Shakespeare Open Face Reels
From my perspective, the main advantages are affordability, simple operation, and decent performance for the price. I like that I can get a reel that covers the basics well without spending too much. For many anglers, that balance is exactly what matters.
What I Watch Out For
I also keep my expectations realistic. If I am buying a lower-priced reel, I do not expect premium-level smoothness or top-tier durability. I check reviews, compare models, and avoid assuming that every reel in the line will perform the same way. Some models may be better suited for light use than heavy-duty fishing.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a Shakespeare open face reel, I would focus on matching the reel to my fishing style, checking the drag and line capacity, and making sure the build feels sturdy enough for my needs. For me, the best choice is the one that gives me reliable performance, easy handling, and good value for the money.
Final Thoughts
I find the Shakespeare Open Face Reel to be a solid choice for anglers who want a simple, dependable, and easy-to-use reel. My main takeaway is that it offers a good balance of performance, affordability, and classic design, making it appealing for both beginners and experienced fishermen. Overall, I think it’s a practical reel that gets the job done without unnecessary complications.
Author Profile
-
Marta Warren is a Columbus, Ohio-based family resource coordinator and the voice behind Tiny Tribe Kids. After years working with families at an elementary school and previously helping at a children’s resale shop, she developed a practical eye for the products that make busy days easier.
Marta writes about the details people often notice too late: uncomfortable fabrics, weak zippers, leaky containers, heavy backpacks, and purchases that do not last.
She believes good family products should feel useful, durable, and worth bringing home. Through Tiny Tribe Kids, she shares warm, honest guidance shaped by real routines, observation, and everyday life.
Latest entries
- June 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fried Denim Clothing Brand: My Honest Take on Style, Comfort, and Quality
- June 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Joyo Multi Effects Pedal: My Honest Review of Its Best Features and Sound Quality
- June 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Car Aromatherapy Rotating Diffuser and Here’s Why It Transformed My Daily Drive
- June 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Moriah Elizabeth Coloring Pages for Fun, Easy, and Creative Coloring Adventures