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10 Best Spinning Reels – Tried & Tested Reviews [2021 Update]

Tired of using spinning reels that don’t perform?

A true angler knows that a handful of worms is not enough for a great fishing experience. You need a good rod and reel combo. So don’t waste your valuable money on a cheap reel that will fail at the first bite of a trophy fish. A great spinning reel can be your best friend.

In this article, we are going to discuss some of the high-quality spinning reels on the market right now. We have evaluated the top reels available and give a review on each, listing both our own and other peoples insights into their performance.

Learn how to cast a spinning reel.

We have also added a buying guide which will help you to learn something more about your spinning reel. Before buying something you should understand the specifications and what to look for in that product.

So let’s start.

Quick Summary – Best Spinning Reels

• Best Value for Money: Penn Battle II
• Best Under $50: Okuma Ceymar
• Best Under $100: Pflueger President

How We Quantitatively Score

We go through a rigorous review of individual reels to measure their performance, durability, and value for money. This flows into an overall score that we give to all products. To see more details, please read the full guide.

Spinning Reel Buying Guide

Before going to purchase a reel, you should consider some of the key design factors that make it work. This impacts on the performance, durability, longevitiy, and value of the equipment.

You may not have heard of some of the technical terms we use, but don’t worry – this section is designed for beginners.

So let’s take a look.

Types of Fishing Reels

There are five types of Fishing Reels available in the market:

Spinning Reels:

Spinning reels are the most popular type of fishing reels used by anglers. The internal gears of Spinning Reels give it a high retrieval rate and maximum drag. They provide the furthest casting distance and are the most versatile. You can use spinning reels of anything from small panfish to large gamefish and from ponds to the ocean.

They are also the easiest to use, with a very low chance for your line knotting unexpectedly. We always recommend spinning reels for beginners.

Baitcasting Reels:

The next most common option is a baitcaster. As the name indicates, these reels are designed for casting. They give better accuracy in casting but not as much distance as a spinning reel. They also can have a much higher gear ratio which can suit particular lures that need to be retrieved extremely fast, like a spoonbait lure.

Baitcasters are normally used for a specific purpose, such as fishing with crankbaits for bass.

See our buying guide for the best baitcasting reels.

Conventional Reels:

If you are an avid angler, a conventional reel is for you. Usually, it is engineered with a heavy boat rod. As a result, they are quite durable. They don’t have the ability to cast long distances but are much more suitable for big game fishing from a boat.

Conventional reels are normally used when dropping baits deep onto a reef or trolling behind a boat.

See our buying guide for the best conventional reels.

Fly Reels:

Another type of fishing reel is the fly reel, which is made for use with a Fly Fishing Rod. Fly reels generally don’t have gearing or much in the way of drag. They are a purer form of one-on-one fighting with the fish.

Fly feels use a weighted fly fishing line and a light fly as bait. They are commonly used for trout in clear, running rivers.

See our buying guide for the best fly fishing reels.

Spincast Reels:

These types of the reel are closed body. Thus, all the parts are enclosed by a body. However, there is a hole in the reel from which the reel’s fishing line comes out. Spincast reels are recommended for kids – they are simple and easy to use, but do lack some of the versatility and performance of a spinning reel.

See our buying guide for the best spincast reels.

Advantages of Spinning Reels

Versatility

Spinning reels are the most versatile and popular type of fishing reel (Source). They can be used for casting from the beach, trolling from a boat, bottom fishing, and casting lures or live bait all in one day.

These features make them suitable to catch almost anything including bass, panfish, redfish, tarpon, and walleye.

If this is your first even fishing reel, then we always recommend choosing a spinning reel. You can get other types of reels for specific scenarios, but your spinning reel will always be your go to option.

Light Line, Light Lures

The prime advantage of spinning reels is their capability to cast long distances. The open bail and fixed spool all the fishing line to flow out with no resistance which is funneled through the eyes in the rod.

As a result it is the easiest to cast with the furthest distance. It rarely creates birds nests or get tangled. Spinning reels are ideal for beginner anglers.

Because of the extra distance you can cast, spinning rods can also be more suitable for lighter lines and lures. If you are targeting panfish, then you will want low weight lures.

Great for all Experience Levels

Spinning reels are perfect for teaching someone to fish and cast. The operation is so simple as opening the bail, then finger on the line, and lastly, let the lure sail. So as you gain experience, you can easily upgrade if required. But you should always start with a spinning reel.

Learn how to use a spinning reel.

Features You Need to Know

It can be difficult to see through the marketing hype and understand exactly what you are getting for your money. This section is to give you a brief overview of the main features so that you can understand the differences between a 5 star and a 1 star product.

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings are a key indicator of reel performance and how smooth the retrieve feels. The more ball bearings, the more evenly the load is distributed around the reel frame and internal gearings. You will notice a fairly clear relationship between the price of a reel and the number of ball bearings.

If you are torn between two reels with similar features, then pick the one with more ball bearings.

Corrosion Resistance

If there is one thing that can destroy metal machines quickly it is water, and in particular saltwater. Anything you can do to avoid rust is worthwhile. But this will be reflected in the price as the materials of construction improve. If you are doing saltwater fishing or even brackish water, then you will want to select a corrosion resistant spinning reel. The best way to get value for money is to increase the amount of time that reel lasts.

If you are only fishing in freshwater and will never venture into salt, then you can pick a cheaper reel that is made from less robust materials.

Line Capacity

The amount of line you need depends on the size and type of fish you are targeting. Panfish need a lot less line then a tuna that is going to swim off at full speed as soon as it is hooked.

The more the line capacity the heavier the reel will be as the spool needs to be physically larger.

You will also want to consider the type of fishing line you are going to use. Braid fishing line has a much higher line capacity than an equivalent strength mono line.

Max Drag

Finally, a key feature to understand is the maximum drag. This showcases how much weight the drag can apply to the fishing line and hence the size of fish that it can stop. The larger reels come with higher drags, so you can easily pick a suitable model/size of spinning reel to suit your target species. Make sure you get a large enough reel to handle the largest fish you are likely to hook.

The last thing you want is to hook a trophy fish and only then discover that your drag is too light.

10 Best Spinning Reels

Now that you have a better idea of what you are looking for, let’s explore the best options available on the market for spinning reels. These have been ranked based on tried and tested experimentation based on performance, durability, and value for money.

1. Pflueger President Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Pflueger President series is one of the most popular products on the market and is designed for anglers who need high performance without spending a lot of money. Though this option is not a budget-priced reel, it still comes within the budget that most serious anglers can afford.

The President is built to last with a metal body, high-quality handle and metal-cased rotor.

The high-quality machined bearing system is cased in steel to better protect the reel in the saltwater.

The feature we like most about this reel is that it comes with Sure-Click bail. It also has an on/off instant anti-reverse bearing.

Also, each of the models are extremely lightweight, which can eliminate some muscle soreness after a full day of fishing.

There are three difference models in this series:

3000 – Weight of 8.3 oz, Mono Capacity of 145 yards of 6 lb line, and Max Drag of 10 lbs.

3500 – Weight of 10.7 oz, Mono Capacity: 225 yards of 6 lb line, and Max Drag of 12 lbs.

4000 – Weight of 11.3 oz, Mono Capacity: 225 6/225 8/175 10/140, and Max Drag of 14 lbs.

Some Noteworthy Features of Pflueger President Spinning Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features of this great reel. Have a look:

• 9 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
• Corrosion-resistant
• Smooth haul system with oil coated washers
• Graphite body
• Soft rubber knobs

Pros

• Durable
• Easy Casting
• Smooth Drag System
• Quite A Reliable Spinning Reel

Cons

• Drag isn’t enough for large gamefish

Verdict

The Pflueger President Crafted Spinning Reel is a well-built reel and among the lightest on the market. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgjykfY_pz0

2. Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel

Overall Score – 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

With the help of a good spinning reel, fishing will be more fun. Penn Battle Spinning Reel is one of the best spinning fishing reels that combines performance with ease of use.

The Battle II is one of my favorite reels and is often our top recommendation, depending on your personal circumstances.

This Penn Battle comes with different sizes ranging from 1000 to 8000.

However, the gear ratio of 2500-4000 is 6:2:1, the other versions 5000 and 6000 have a 5:6:1 gear ratio, and the largest model 8000 comes with the gear ration of 5:3:1. All of the models have six ball bearings.

Penn II1000 – features Mono line capacity: 275/2; 135/4; 105/6 and Max Drag of 9 lbs.

Penn II1000 – features Mono line capacity: 255/6; 175/8; 140/10 and Max Drag of 12 lbs.

Penn II3000 – features Mono line capacity: 200/8; 165/10; 120/12 and Max Drag of 15 lbs.

Penn II4000 – features Mono line capacity: 270/8; 220/10; 165/12 and Max Drag of 15 lbs.

Penn II5000 – features Mono line capacity: 225/12; 200/15; 135/20 and Max Drag of 25 lbs.

Penn II6000 – features Mono line capacity: 335/15; 230/20; 210/25 and Max Drag of 25 lbs.

Penn II8000 – features Mono line capacity: 340/20; 310/25; 230/30 and Max Drag of 30 lbs.

Some noteworthy features of Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features of this excellent reel:

• This reel comes with 20% extra drag
• Smooth retrieve and suitable for saltwater with six stainless steel ball bearings
• Large Line Capacity Ring
• Improved corrosion resistance 

Pros

• Smooth Drag System
• Solid, Durable Reel
• High Line Capacity
• Anti-Reverse System

Cons

• Heavier than some other alternatives

What is the difference between the Penn Battle II and Battle III?

The Battle III comes with the upgraded body, rotor and bail design of the Slammer III. This gives the Battle III both improved durability and improved performance albeit at a higher cost. If you can afford the difference then go for the newer option.

Verdict

Don’t let the weight of Penn’s Battle II spinning reel trick you – this reel is no lightweight. The Battle II range is a solid workhorse reel that suits freshwater and saltwater anglers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf6AJ3br-1w

3. Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Fishing Reel

Overall Score – 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our search to find the best spinning reel for you still is not over. Pflueger is another model worth including in this list for the best saltwater reels.

The Pflueger supreme xt spinning reel is highly rated by the experts.

The reel is extremely lightweight and at the same time has first class gearing and ball bearing features. It is very durable and high performing during drags, casts, and cranks.

It is ideal for a wide range of fish and angling applications.

It is exceptionally light at a price range very affordable.

The Supreme XT Spinning reel has four models weighing only 9.6 ounces! Also, It has a sealed carbon system which always remains lubricated.

Some Noteworthy Features Of Pflueger Supreme XT Spinning Reel

• 10 Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
• Magnesium Body Rotor
• Sealed Carbon Drag
• Carbon Handle that is 21% lighter than aluminum
• Braid Ready Spool

Pros

• Extremely Light
• Braid Ready Spool
• Smooth Drag Performance
• Affordable

Verdict

The Supreme XT spinning real will give you a smooth casting experience. It is extremely versatile and suitable for a wide range of fishing applications.

4. ​Shimano Stradic Ci4+ Reel

Overall Score – 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you are looking for the best spinning reels under 200 for saltwater fishing, then the Shimano Stradic CI4+ front drag is the top contender. Shimano are renowned for making high quality products with leading edge technology.

This lightweight spinning reel is designed for fishers who want an affordable option. However, it also gives high performance and looks good with great aesthetics. This combines into one of the top spinning reels.

This spinning reel comes with 6:0:1 gear ratio and weighs only 5.6 ounces.

Some Noteworthy Features Of Shimano Stradic Ci4+ Front Drag Spinning Reel

• 6 ball bearings for smooth operations
• Max Drag of 7-24 pounds depending on the model
• Line Retrieve of 31 inches per crank
• Line capacity of 65 – 95 yards depending on the line thickness
• Front Drag
• Long casting range

Pros

• Extremely Lightweight
• Very Affordable
• Looks Great
• Well Crafted
• Designed For Saltwater Use

Verdict

It is one of the best spinning reels for small fish. Moreover, it also works well in salt water. The Shimano Stradic is one of the most popular reels throughout the United States and has a good combination of low weight, affordable price, high performance, and high quality manufacture.

5. Okuma Trio High-Speed Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Enjoy a heavy-duty performance in a lightweight reel – Okuma presents us with exactly this in their Trio High Speed option. And the best part is it is within 100 bucks. The Okuma Trio High Speed comes in two colors- black and orange.

There are three different versions – Trio 30S, Trio 40S and Trio 55S.

Some noteworthy features of  Okuma Corp: Okuma Trio High-Speed Spinning Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features of this excellent reel. Have a look.

• Forged aluminum and EVA knobs
• Like other Okuma reels, the gearing system is elliptical and precise.
• The pinion gears feature ensures long-lasting performance
• Precision Dual Force Drag System
• The narrow blade body design gives it maximum control
• The aluminum component keeps it extremely lightweight.
• The 9 BB + 1 RB Stainless Steel Bearings

Pros

• Smooth Handle
• Longer Lasting
• No Slippage
• Suitable For The Toughest Fish
• 9 BB + 1 RB Stainless Steel Bearings

Cons

• Has a different style to normal reels

Verdict

This reel will not only give you a professional performance but is also incredibly durable and reliable. That’s why this reel has made our list of recommendations for your next fishing trip. 

6. Okuma Ceymar Lightweight Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you are searching for a reliable reel under fifty bucks, this Okuma Spinning Reel is undoubtedly on the top of that list. Compared to the other reels, it has a smooth retrieve, is beautifully designed, and is precise in its operation.

The best thing about this spinning reel is it comes in five different styles. These styles are classified according to the purpose – Each style is designed for specific work:

C-10: Great For Small Ice Fishing Outfits

This reel is the smallest Ceymar in this family. It is great for 2 to 6-pound test fishing line. This reel is designed for fishing for sunfish, trout, bluegill, and crappie. For best performance, pair with an ultra-light fishing rod.

C-30, C-40: A Versatile Performers In Freshwater

Intermediate sizes are the most versatile anglers. It suits steelhead, bass, carp fishing, walleye, and more. Therefore, the size 30 is designed for finesse applications. It is perfect for jigging walleye or drop-shotting bass with 6 to 8 pound fishing line.

On the other hand, C-40 comes with larger capacity. It designed for bigger fish like catfish, steelhead, and bigger lures. It can hold a 10 to 12 pound line.

C-55: Great For Fishing In Inshore Saltwater

When it comes in Inshore Saltwater fishing, C-55 is brilliant – It’s a highly capable reel. It is capable enough to hold bigger fish like snook, striped bass. redfish and shallow water bottom fish. It will hold 15-pound monofilament line of roughly 240-yards. Thus, using braided line of 20 to 30 pounds can fit similar lengths.

C-65: Great For Jetty, Pier, & Big Water Fishing

The size 65 is made in such a way to hold oversized fish. It is equipped with higher cranking power and max drag. In saltwater, it is perfect for casting from jetties and piers. In freshwater, the C-65 will be best for casting big river and lake fish like catfish.

Some Noteworthy Features of Okuma Ceymar Lightweight Spinning Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features:

• It comes with a multi-disc drag system – This system makes it pretty powerful
• 7 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing
• The company offers a 1-Year Limited Warranty
• Machine cut brass pinion gear
• It is made up of 2-tone machined aluminum spool
• The C-65 comes with Ergo Grip handle

Pros

• Anti-Reverse Roller Bearing
• Dynamic Design
• Supremely Comfortable

Cons

• Only comes with a 1-Year Warranty

Verdict

The Okuma Ceymar is a brilliant entry level reel. It performs well and is lightweight and reliable compared with the other reels in this category. If price is an object then certainly look at this option.

7. Penn Fierce II Spinning Fishing Reel

Overall Score – 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐

From the very first impression, this Penn spinning reel will impress you with its amazing looks. One of the things you will love about the Penn is the fact that this spinning reel has a smooth retrieve. For anyone who has never tried a Penn reel I would recommend giving it a go – it is like no other reel manufacturer.

When it comes to retrieving a lure, this is one of the best spinning reels. The feature we like most about this reel is its max drag.

It comes in several sizes started with 2500-8000.

Some Noteworthy Features of Penn Fierce II Spinning Fishing Reel

These Features include:

• This reel comes with premium performance and durability at a very reasonable value
• Durable construction with heavy duty aluminum bail wire
• Enclosed in a full metal body
• Instant ant-reverse bearing
• 4 shielded stainless steel ball bearings
• 1/3 and 2/3 marked line capacity rings
• As it comes with super line spool, it doesn’t require any backing.

Pros

• Smooth Retrieves
• Durable Construction
• Don’t Need Any Backing
• Superior Leverage

Cons

• Lots of options – make sure you select the right one for your requirements

Verdict

This fishing combo has got everything you want from a reliable reel. The Penn Fierce is a favorite among anglers everywhere. If you are looking for a cheap reel that delivers have a look at Penn.

8. Shimano Sienna Front Drag Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐

Are you worried about spending a lot of money to pick a spinning reel that doesn’t come with all of the features?

Well, Shimano paved the way especially for someone like you who wants an amazing spinning reel on a tight budget. Shimano are one of the leading reels brands (and my personal favorite) for their stunning techology and design.

Some Noteworthy Features of Shimano Sienna Front Drag Spinning Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features:

• Propulsion line management system to cast further and reduce backlash
• Anti-reverse system
• Graphite reel, frame, side plate
• Ported handle shank
• Varispeed oscillation

Pros

• Telescoping Rod
• Tremendously Lightweight
• Soft Gear
• Simple Casting Procedure

Cons

• Doesn’t have all the features of a high-end reel
• Not suitable for large offshore fish

Verdict

Shimano are one of the best around, and if you want to get their technology at a decent price then have a look at the Sienna. I would certainly recommend looking at some of the more expensive Shimano reels if you have the budget for it, but this reel will do the job – no question.

9. Shimano IX Rear Drag Freshwater Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐

• Line Capacity: 6/170, 8/120, 10/100 (lb/yard)
• Max Drag: 7 lbs
• Gear Ratio: 4.1:1

SSR 1 – Weight of 9.6 ounces, gear ratio of 4.1:1, max drag of 7 Ibs, and line capacity of 120 yards of 8 lb mono

SSR 2 – Weight of 1.5 pounds, gear ratio of 4.1:1, max drag of 15 Ibs, and line capacity of 240 yards of 8 lb mono

Shimano has finally released a spinning model that most anglers or professionals can afford. It is very popular among freshwater anglers and has achieved positive reviews from the customers.

The first thing you will notice first is its sleek blackish look thanks to its stunning mechanical design and excellent drag system. Moreover, Shimano Spinning Reel is not only a great spinning reel for the angler but also at a modest price.

Highlighted Features and Benefit of SHIMANO IX Rear Drag Freshwater Spinning Reel

• The frame and handle are constructed of solid aluminum. The combination of graphite and solid aluminum makes it extra durable.
• Shimano designed this reel for saltwater. To survive and protecting damage all graphite material like side plate, frame, spool, rotor.
• More than anything, these spinning reels are light. One of them is 9.6 ounces, and another is 1.5 pound. So you will not be getting fatigued casting for extended sessions.
• The handles made as traditional T shaped. At the same time, paddle-shaped are depending on which size you prefer.
• This reel is an easy casting and level winding reel. The Propulsion Line Management System that allows flowing off the spool gently. It ensures longer cast, without making huge backlashes.
• The S A-RB bearings come with shielded on each side and protect from dirt.

Pros

• This Spinning Reel Is Quite Lightweight
• Rear Drag
• It Gives Effortless Casting

Cons

• Can have trouble casting in rough weather
• Take care of the graphite

10. Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel

Overall Score – 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐

• Line retrieve: 36 in
• Maximum drag: 20 lb
• Item weight: 1.7 pound

If you are worried that spending less than $200 means you have to pick a spinning reel without some superb features, then have a look at the Shimano Baitrunner.

Shimano paved the way for new fishing technology, especially for someone who wants an excellent saltwater spinning reel on a tight budget. You will get everything you want from this ideal spinning reel.

Shimano are one of my favorite fishing brands, because of the attention to detail they put into everything – from the design to the materials and everything in between. Shimano are a byword for quality and durability.

This Baitrunner D series from Shimano offers several medium-sized reels for saltwater. At the same time, these are readily available in four other model from 4000-12000. However, the line capacity of this model starts from 8 Ib mono and 15 Ib in the braid. As it goes high, the line capacity also is shown as 20 Ib mono and 80Ib in braid on the 12000 model of D series.

Make sure you pick a reel size that suits your needs, depending on the type of fish – predatory fish like mackerel tend to run hard and require longer fishing line spool lengths, while tarpon fight hard and require stronger and thicker fishing line.

Some Noteworthy Features and Benefit of Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel

Let’s dig into the benefits and features of Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel:

• The first noticeable features is its anti-reverse mechanism. It comes with a Super Stopper II, where one of the bearings is used to eliminate any back play. This will help to avoid any bird nesting or spooling your line out when you don’t want it to.
• It also has the Shimano SA-RB anti-rust bearing. This is referred to as ‘Metal Shield’ and is one of the ways that Shimano build in corrosion resistance.
• The spool is made from cold-forged Aluminum, which gives it superior durability but also low weight.
• It also has good balance with Shimano’s Dyna which maintains the reel’s stability during retrieval.
• Finally it also has Shimano’s Propulsion Line Management, which helps to give longer casting distance by spooling the line on neatly. This also helps to fit more line onto the spool and prevents backlash.

Pros

• Affordable
• Long Casting Distance
• Excellent Line Lay
• Comfortable Grips
• Able to tackle Lake Trout, Salmon, Crappie Or any large sized Saltwater Species
• Shimano produce high quality products with the latest and greatest technology available

Specification Comparison

It can be difficult to tell the difference between all of these features and benefits. So let’s focus entirely on the data and the specifications. All of this information is based on a size 3000 reel model.

Spinning Reel	Score	Ball Bearings	Suitable for Saltwater	Retrieve Rate	Gear Ratio	Max Drag	Weight	Mono Capacity (6lb)	Price Range
Pflueger President	5/5	9+1	No	31 inches	6.2:1	10 lb	7.6 oz	145 yards	$$
Penn Battle II	5/5	5+1	Yes	35 inches	6.2:1	15 lb	12.3 oz	210 yards	$$
Pflueger Supreme XT	5/5	10	No	33 inches	6.2:1	12 lb	8.0 oz	230 yards	$$
Shimano Stradic Ci4+	4/5	6+1	Yes	35 inches	6.0:1	20 lb	6.7 oz	230 yards	$$$
Okuma Trio High Speed	4/5	9+1	Yes	32 inches	6.0:1	17 lb	10.4 oz	200 yards	$$
Okuma Ceymar	4/5	7+1	No	25 inches	5.0:1	15 lb	8.1 oz	180 yards	$$
Penn Fierce II	3/5	4+1	Yes	35 inches	6.2:1	10 lb	11.7	220 yards	$$
Shimano Sienna	3/5	3+1	No	28 inches	5.0:1	9 lb	8.8 oz	110 yards	$
Shimano IX	3/5	0	Yes	21 inches	4.1:1	7 lb	8.6 oz	170 yards	$
Shimano Baitrunner D	3/5	3+1	Yes	28 inches	4.8:1	15 lb	13.5 oz	260 yards	$$$

Conclusion

To wrap the best spinning reels up, we could say that a great reel can be your best friend in your adventurous fishing experience. However, each spinning reel on our list also comes with an amazing specification. But we can understand that buying decision is related to various aspects like affordability, purpose as well as preference.

Finally, you are the decision maker. So it’s totally up to you.

We hope you enjoyed our article. Thanks for being with us.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSLPZ4w5-so

Last update on 2021-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API