Model: Lew's Laser Lite LLS100G2
Reel Type: Spinning
Size: 100
Bearings: 6+1
Gear Ratio: 5.1:1
Recovery Per Turn: 23.5"
Weight: 7.2 oz
Max Drag: 8.8 lb
Mono Line Capacity: 160 yd / 6 lb
Braid Line Capacity: 200 yd / 8 lb
Retrieve: Right/Left
Spool: Anodized Aluminum
Body: Lightweight Graphite
Drag: Oiled Felt
Introduction
The Lew's Laser Lite LLS100G2 is a lightweight spinning reel that I've used as part of my light-tackle setup for crappie and other freshwater fishing. It has seen a lot of time on the water, and what stands out to me is how well it balances light weight, smooth operation, and enough drag to handle fish that can be much larger than the reel's intended target.
What I Like About the Reel
One of the biggest things I like about the Laser Lite is how comfortable it is to fish for long periods. It's light enough that it doesn't make a light rod feel unnecessarily heavy, which matters when you're casting and working small presentations for hours at a time.
The reel also has a smooth feel on the retrieve, and the drag has performed well for me. I like having a reel that can handle light line while still giving me enough control when a stronger fish decides to make a run.
How It Performs on the Water
On the water, the Laser Lite has proven to be a dependable part of my light-tackle setup. I've used it primarily for crappie fishing, working small jigs and other light presentations where a smooth retrieve and a responsive drag are important.
I've fished it from boats, banks, docks, and around brush piles, and it has handled those situations well. What I especially appreciate is that the reel doesn't feel out of place when you're fishing light line, but it still has enough capability to deal with an unexpected fish that's considerably larger than what you're targeting.
The Drag
The drag is one of the areas where this reel has impressed me. When you're fishing light line, having a drag that works smoothly matters because you don't have much room for error when a fish makes a strong run.
I've had this reel handle fish that really tested the light-tackle setup, and I've been able to rely on the drag to do its job. That gives me confidence to keep fishing light without feeling like I'm completely outmatched when something bigger takes the bait.
Who Is the Reel Best For?
In my opinion, the Lew's Laser Lite is best suited for anglers looking for a lightweight spinning reel for freshwater fishing, especially when you're pairing it with a light or moderate-light rod.
It's a good fit for anglers who enjoy crappie fishing, small jigs, and other light presentations where keeping the overall setup light and comfortable matters.
If you're primarily fishing trout, crappie, or other smaller freshwater species, this reel makes a lot of sense as part of a dedicated light-tackle setup.
What I Don't Like
The biggest limitation of the Laser Lite is that it's a lightweight reel, and that's exactly how I think it should be used. I wouldn't choose it for heavy-duty applications or situations where you're consistently targeting large fish in heavy cover.
If you're expecting a reel that's going to handle constant abuse from big fish, heavy line, or demanding conditions, I'd look at something built specifically for that purpose.
But that's really a matter of matching the equipment to the job. For the type of fishing I use it for, I haven't found that limitation to be a problem.
Value
For me, the biggest selling point of the Laser Lite is the overall value. You're getting a lightweight spinning reel that performs well, feels good paired with a light rod, and doesn't require a major investment.
By fishing it with lighter line, small lures, and the right kind of freshwater equipment, you can get a setup that's enjoyable to fish without spending a fortune.
That's why I think it's a particularly good option for anglers who want a dedicated light-tackle reel without jumping into the higher-priced end of the market.
My Verdict
After actually fishing with the Lew's Laser Lite, I have no problem recommending it for the right kind of angler. It has performed well for me as a lightweight freshwater reel, and it pairs especially well with the lighter rods I use for crappie and similar fishing.
Would I put this reel on a heavy rod and go after big fish? Absolutely not. That's not what it's designed to do.
For an angler who wants a dependable, lightweight reel for light-tackle freshwater fishing, though, I think the Laser Lite is a solid choice.
Final Takeaway
If you're looking for a lightweight spinning reel for light freshwater fishing, the Lew's Laser Lite has earned its place in my lineup. It's comfortable to fish, has a smooth retrieve and dependable drag, and pairs well with the type of light rods I use.
My recommendation comes from actually putting the reel on the water and seeing how it performs rather than simply looking at the specifications. For crappie, trout, and other light-tackle applications, I think it offers a good combination of performance, comfort, and value.
Just remember that the key is matching the reel to the job. For light fishing, this one has served me well.
Disclosure / Affiliate Note
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