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In the Daiwa, you get a reel with build quality and durability comparable to those of models costing $200 or more.

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Consumer Reports

With the best combination of operation, features, and construction among all reels tested, the Okuma Ceymar C-30 is the fishing reel we voted as the best of the bunch. Its smooth operation meant we could cast with ease and reel in something big without fighting against the reel and the fish. At eight ounces, it's one of the lightest reels we tested and feels barely noticeable on many rods, making for a more balanced setup. We also like its utility as a small, lightweight reel to pack into the backcountry to find isolated, less-often fished lakes and streams. It has a nice, solid aluminum bail with an oversize line roller, which helped keep our line in check. And when it comes to comfort, it has it in spades, including our favorite handle. The soft, EVA foam handle grip provided all-day comfort as well as a solid hold. 
As for drawbacks, this reel presents relatively few. We imagine the very comfortable foam handle grip may not stand up to the test of time. However, over hundreds of casts and several weeks of use, it has held up fine so far, without any signs of deteriorating. One should also note that this reel is quite small in comparison to many reels we've fished with. We don't think this is bad, as its compact size is super packable, but it's worth mentioning. If you're looking for the best all-around fishing reel for performance and price, the Okuma Ceymar C-30 won't disappoint. 

OutdoorGearLab

Thanks to a combo of smooth operation, awesome features, and quality construction, the Okuma Ceymar C-30 is the fishing reel that rose to the top of the fleet. Its smooth operation meant we could cast with ease and reel in something big without fighting against the reel and the fish. At eight ounces, it's one of the lightest reels we tested and feels barely noticeable on many rods, making for a more balanced setup. We also like its utility as a small, lightweight reel to pack into the backcountry to find isolated, less-often fished lakes and streams. It has a nice, solid aluminum bail with an oversize line roller, which helped keep our line in check. And when it comes to comfort, it has it in spades, including our favorite handle. The soft, EVA foam handle grip provided all-day comfort as well as a solid hold. 
As for drawbacks, this reel presents relatively few. We imagine the very comfortable foam handle grip may not stand up to the test of time. However, over hundreds of casts and several weeks of use, it has held up fine so far, without any signs of deteriorating. One should also note that this reel is quite small in comparison to many reels. We don't think this is bad, as its compact size is super packable, but it's worth mentioning. If you're looking for the best all-around fishing reel for performance and price, the Okuma Ceymar C-30 won't disappoint. 

expert-review

Best Fishing Reels

When you're after saltwater fish, it pays to have a reel designed for the job. That's precisely where the Daiwa BG2500 comes in. Its aluminum housing and waterproof drag system performed at the top of its class during weeks of fishing off of piers and jetties into the briny deep by our test team. Speaking of drag, it had plenty of power, which helped when fighting bigger fish. The drag dial was also one of our favorites, providing feedback with well-spaced clicks. The handle is well designed with a wide handle grip that gave us impressive control and comfort. Another great feature was its anti-reverse system. It instantly locks the second you flip the switch. It was also a great casting reel, giving us long and accurate casts, something we especially appreciate when trying to place a lure into tight spots.     
The only real complaint we have about this reel is its bail. While it worked flawlessly during our testing, its thin wire design didn't match the rest of the reel's high quality. Overall though, if you want a versatile reel that excels in saltwater conditions, the Daiwa BG2500 should be your top choice. 

When you're after saltwater fish, it pays to have a reel designed for the job. That's precisely where the Daiwa BG2500 comes in. Its aluminum housing and waterproof drag system performed at the top of its class during weeks of fishing off of piers and jetties into the briny deep by our test team. Speaking of drag, it had plenty of power, which helped when fighting bigger fish. The drag dial was also one of our favorites, providing feedback with well-spaced clicks. The well-designed handle has a wide handle grip that offers comfort and impressive control. Another great feature was its anti-reverse system. It instantly locks the second you flip the switch. It was also a great casting reel, giving us long and accurate casts, something we especially appreciate when trying to place a lure into tight spots.     
The only real complaint we have about this reel is its bail. While it worked flawlessly during our testing, its thin wire design didn't match the rest of the reel's high quality. Overall though, if you want a versatile reel that excels in saltwater conditions, the Daiwa BG2500 should be your top choice. 

Spinning Reel Comparison