Reel Review: Kast King Sharky III Spinning Reel

In the market for a new reel?

I’ve been using the Kast King Sharky III on some kayak fishing trips recently and have been enjoying it.

It’s inexpensive, hardy (still really smooth despite several kayak trips) and has a strong drag system.

Check out the video for the full review.

Enjoy!

By the way, we are not sponsored or endorsed by Kast King or any other companies, so you can be sure this is a completely unbiased review.

See the full post here:

For more in-depth videos where we detail our whole pre-trip planning and share what used and where we were, check out our SUPER-Community:

FREE Inshore Fishing Guide:

[chance]

Have had this reel in the 4000 for two years. It’s my workhorse and I am happy with it. I fish in a kayak inshore in South Texas and it has landed me some great fish. Brought in a good size black drum a while back and it was flawless. Great drag system. Only problem is that I can’t figure out how to justify spending more for “fancier” reels.

[chrismcvey]

I own several of these reels including the baitfeeder version. I’m not gonna lie I beat the snot out of them and I’ve had no issues. They are approaching the end of their 2nd year and still function like new.

[Steelman]

I have two of the first spinning reels that Kastking came out with in 2013. They are the Triton series a 2500 and a 3000. I still use them in salt and fresh water. I rinse them when used in saltwater and wipe them down with WD 40 after every use. They still work like new and actually have never been opened up to be greased. I just purchased two Sharks threes, a 1000 and a 2000 this year for Ned rig fishing and other finesse tactics. I’m a big Kastking fan. I’ve owned Penn and Shimano reels, but truthfully, the quality for the dollar is with Kastking. Just started using Destron braid exclusively as well, so far I’m a happy fisherman down here on the Gulf coast of Texas

[KastKing]

Let us know if you want to test the Speed Demon spinning reel. SUPER fast retrieve.

[maaifoediedelarey]

What a timely review ! I ordered the 5000 model just 2 days ago, just going on the specs vs price, specifically for beach fishing, also inedibles, due to the high drag force. Good to hear the experts like it.

[GainingDespair]

When they are new (before you put any line on them), it doesn't hurt to spray them down with a wax/ceramic coating. I generally prefer the spray bottles, but it helps prevent physical contact with salt water, at least long enough to rinse it off by the time you get home. Not perfect, and it's not do it once and forget it, but if you replace your line every other season (depending on how much you fish), you can really prolong rust.

[BIGjeffSanDiego]

First review I've seen mention the speed, that this reel is on the slower side. Still happy I bought this reel, it still sounds like it's a good one. Thanks! Just subscribed!

[tokarlitztv]

I agree with you...I have a kastking sharky III 4000 from Amazon also and I'm impressed by it's smoothness...I do my fishing at pier and it's very smooth to drag fish up...I'm satisfied with it...

[BigK_ThirdCoastReds]

Thanks for the review Tony. 1 question please... You said you do not like the Foam grip, what you didn't say was if the grip could be replaced... Can the grip be replaced? Thanks. Tight Lines and Full Limits to Ya.!

[stuartfill]

I’ve had a 4000 Sharky 3 spinning reel and a Royal legend baitcaster for over a year now and I think they’re unbeatable for the price. I have no complaints with any kastking products that I own. Great video by the way. I like to hear a unbiased opinion for a change.

[meh]

I have the 4000 on their 8’6 medium heavy 2 piece rod. Very smooth I love it.

[nickrabauliman]

A Daiwa and Penn user, found this review helpful, considering to purchase this model of reel but a bigger size for larger saltwater inshore game, thanks for this!

[paulhuval]

Enjoyed your review there. I only use penn reels myself but that is just a personal preference.

[fishing-fanatic]

Have one of these reels used it in saltwater have had no issues at all still smooth as day I bought it. also if u need more speed try the kast
king speed demon 7.2:1 ratio

[CutandShootx]

4 years later, I very much appreciate your vid brother! New Sub and new to angling!

[kirkalexander]

Thanks for reviewing these reels. I have two. 10 +1 shielded bearings and very smooth with no play. Also has a more solid bail wire than most. For about $55 you can’t beat it.

[deepiper]

I have 2 Kastking Sharky II spinning reels and i am on my 2nd year with both of them. A 1500 and a 2000. The 1500 is my multi-species rod. The 2000 is my finesse bass reel that I wouldnt hesitate to take inshore fishing as well. Glad to hear the Sharky III got a good impartial, non sponsored review.

[DOAFISHINGCHARTERS]

i’ve switched my whole inshore stand of reels to the 2000’s and 3000’s. i guided 220 trips last year, most of the reels on their 2nd year. they live in the salt air and get wet daily. still haven’t had a main gear go in any of them. some drag washers, thumb rest has fallen off a few, and paint bubbles and chips off. but they all are still smooth. most of my my bg’s and penns are prettier. most of those feel like pepper grinders. thanks for making this video.

[BigOldBear]

I have BOTH a 4000 and a 6000 Kast King bait runner AND
BOTH a 4000 and 6000 "D" Shimano bait runner.!!!
I totally love them all. Spent MUCH on the Shimano.!!!
But feel they are ALL compatiby the same. 🐻 👌

[damianwysokinski]

I have a Sharky3 5000.

Pros: strong, lightweight, smooth, price,
Cons: low spool capacity, ticking sound when rotating a handle (annoying),