Daiwa Spinstar Schematics

Daiwa Spinstar Schematics

Need Parts? Check here!

Daiwa Spinmatic Reels: A Look at a Classic Ultralight Series

For anglers devoted to the art of ultralight fishing, the Daiwa Spinmatic name likely resonates, primarily through their popular line of ultralight fishing rods. However, these sensitive rods were designed as a “true performance match” for a dedicated line of Daiwa Spinmatic ultralight spinning reels. While seemingly no longer in current production, these reels carved out a niche for themselves among enthusiasts of light-tackle angling.

The Daiwa Spinmatic reels were conceived as a family of ultralight spinning reels tailored for precision and finesse. Anglers targeting species like trout, panfish, and crappie, especially in small streams, ponds, or when backpacking to remote waters, found these reels to be capable partners to the equally specialized Spinmatic rods.  

One notable model in the series was the Daiwa Spinmatic-X. Reviews from its time of availability, around the early 2000s, highlighted its compact and portable design. Weighing in at a mere 5.1 ounces, the Spinmatic-X was praised for its diminutive size, easily fitting into the palm of a hand or a jacket pocket, making it an excellent choice for anglers on the move. It incorporated Daiwa technologies such as “Twist Buster,” aimed at reducing line twist, and “Gyro Spin” for improved balance. Though equipped with only two ball bearings, it was considered reasonably smooth for its class. The drag system was also noted as being quite capable for an ultralight reel, allowing for fine adjustments.

Other models that appeared under the Spinmatic banner, often seen on the used market, include:

  • Daiwa Micro Spinmatic X 500T
  • Daiwa Spinmatic-Z 500T
  • Daiwa Spinmatic ST-600RD
  • Daiwa Spinmatic ST-900RD
  • Daiwa Spinmatic Ss-700Rd  
  • Daiwa Spinmatic Ultra Mini

These model designations suggest variations in size or features within the Spinmatic reel family, all centering around the ultralight fishing application.

The construction of models like the Spinmatic-X was noted for a surprising amount of metal components considering their price point, lending them a feel of quality. However, being an older series, some performance quirks such as handle back-play or occasional bail return issues were reported on some units.

Today, anglers seeking Daiwa Spinmatic reels will primarily find them on reseller platforms and among vintage tackle collectors. While Daiwa continues to produce excellent modern ultralight spinning reels, such as the QG750, QC750, and QR750 series, the Spinmatic name for reels seems to have been largely succeeded by newer innovations and product lines.

Despite their discontinuation, the Daiwa Spinmatic reels hold a place in angling history as a dedicated ultralight series that, paired with their companion rods, offered a specialized system for anglers pursuing the thrill of catching fish on the lightest of tackle. Their legacy lives on in the continued popularity of the Spinmatic rod series and the fond memories of anglers who relied on these compact and capable ultralight reels.