Description

Lew’s Speed Spin Gen 2 Spinning Reel

The Lew’s Speed Spin Gen 2 Spinning Reel is an upgraded high-performance spinning reel designed to deliver smooth retrieves, lightweight handling, and fast line pickup for freshwater and light inshore fishing applications. Building on the success of the original Speed Spin series, the Gen 2 version introduces refined engineering, improved balance, and enhanced drag performance while maintaining Lew’s reputation for offering strong value in the mid-range spinning reel market.

Constructed around a lightweight graphite frame and sideplate, the Speed Spin Gen 2 reduces unnecessary weight while maintaining structural rigidity during hard retrieves and fish fights. The reel also utilizes a skeletal graphite rotor, helping improve balance and reduce fatigue during long casting sessions and finesse presentations.

Internally, the reel features a 10-bearing system (9 bearings on the compact 75-size model) that delivers smooth rotational performance and reliable cranking power. Lew’s also incorporates a Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing, providing instant anti-reverse engagement for solid hooksets and improved control during fish fights.

One of the major upgrades in the Gen 2 series is the inclusion of a hybrid carbon drag system, engineered to provide smoother startup performance and more consistent drag pressure compared to earlier felt drag systems. This drag design helps maintain better line control during aggressive fish runs while improving durability under repeated heavy use.

The Speed Spin Gen 2 is also known for its high-speed gear ratios, with 200, 300, and 400 sizes featuring a fast 6.2:1 retrieve ratio for rapid line pickup and responsive lure control. Smaller 75 and 100 models use a 5.2:1 ratio optimized for finesse fishing and ultralight presentations.

Additional premium features include:

• Braid-ready double-anodized aluminum spool
• Folding screw-in aluminum handle
• Soft rubber paddle handle knob
• Lightweight graphite rotor design
• Reversible right/left-hand retrieve
• Smooth multi-disc drag performance
• Compact ergonomic reel profile

The Lew’s Speed Spin Gen 2 is available in multiple sizes suitable for bass, trout, crappie, walleye, perch, and light inshore species. Its combination of lightweight handling, fast retrieves, and smooth drag performance makes it especially popular among finesse anglers and artificial lure fishermen.

Key Features

• Lightweight graphite frame and sideplate
• Skeletal graphite rotor
• Smooth 10-bearing system
• Zero Reverse anti-reverse clutch
• Hybrid carbon drag system
• High-speed 6.2:1 retrieve ratio (larger sizes)
• Braid-ready aluminum spool
• Folding aluminum handle
• Soft rubber paddle handle knob
• Designed for freshwater and finesse fishing

Performance Overview

The Lew’s Speed Spin Gen 2 is widely appreciated for delivering smooth operation, lightweight comfort, and excellent value in the sub-$100 spinning reel category. Many anglers praise the reel’s balance, fast retrieve speed, and smooth drag system for bass and finesse fishing applications. Community discussions often note that Lew’s spinning reels compete well with similarly priced Shimano and Daiwa models, though opinions on long-term refinement can vary among experienced anglers.

Overall, the Lew’s Speed Spin Gen 2 Spinning Reel offers an excellent combination of lightweight performance, smooth retrieves, upgraded drag technology, and fast gearing, making it a versatile choice for anglers seeking dependable all-around freshwater performance at a reasonable price point.