As an experienced fisherman, I have had the opportunity to use some of the top trolling reels on the market. In this review, I’ll be discussing the top 10 best trolling reels for saltwater fishing, including their features, performance, and overall value.
10. Shimano Tiagra
Shimano Tiagra Conventional Saltwater Lever Drag Reel is a top-of-the-line choice for any angler looking to take on big game fish offshore. This reel has earned its reputation as an industry standard due to its precision drag system and sturdy construction, which allow anglers to apply the necessary amount of pressure when fighting fish without worrying about gear failure.
One of the standout features of the Tiagra is its smooth operation. Whether you’re retrieving your line or setting the hook on a big fish, the Tiagra’s mechanics operate seamlessly, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. Additionally, the reel’s comfortable grip makes it easy to hold onto during long days on the water, reducing fatigue and allowing you to fish more effectively.
In terms of construction, the Tiagra is built to last. Its strong and durable materials can withstand the harsh saltwater environment, ensuring that the reel will perform well for years to come. The precision machining of the reel’s components also ensures that the Tiagra’s operation is as smooth as possible, even under heavy loads.
Overall, the Shimano Tiagra Conventional Saltwater Lever Drag Reel is a top-performing reel that lives up to its reputation as an industry standard. Whether you’re trolling for marlin or battling a tuna, the Tiagra’s precision drag system and smooth operation make it a reliable choice for anglers who demand the best from their gear.
9. Penn Squall II
Penn Squall II Level Wind Conventional Reel for anglers looking for a dependable and user-friendly trolling reel. Its level wind system allows for easier line management, reducing the likelihood of tangles and snarls while trolling. This feature is especially helpful when fishing with multiple lines, as it allows for efficient deployment and retrieval of your gear.
In addition to its level wind system, the Squall II also boasts a durable construction that can handle the rigors of offshore fishing. Its full metal body and side plates provide a sturdy foundation, while its high-strength gears and anti-reverse bearing ensure smooth and reliable performance. The Squall II is also equipped with a comfortable grip that allows for extended use without hand fatigue.
Another notable feature of the Squall II is its versatility. It can be used for a wide range of fishing applications, from trolling for tuna to bottom fishing for snapper. Its smooth drag system allows for precise adjustments, ensuring that you can effectively target and land a variety of species.
8. Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel
The Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel is a great value option for anglers who are looking for a reliable and affordable trolling reel. Despite its budget-friendly price point, the ATS is constructed with rugged materials that can withstand the wear and tear of offshore fishing. Its sturdy graphite frame and side plates provide a solid foundation, while its stainless steel components offer durability and corrosion resistance.
In terms of performance, the ATS offers smooth operation thanks to its two stainless steel ball bearings. The reel’s level wind system ensures even line lay, reducing the likelihood of tangles and allowing for more efficient trolling. The ATS also features a multi-disc drag system that allows for precise adjustments, ensuring that you can effectively target and land your desired species.
One of the standout features of the ATS is its versatility. It can be used for a wide range of fishing applications, from trolling for salmon to bottom fishing for grouper. Its smooth operation and durable construction make it an excellent choice for beginner and experienced anglers alike.
7. One Bass Level Wind Trolling Reel
The One Bass Level Wind Trolling Reel is an excellent choice for anglers who are looking to target larger fish species. Its powerful drag system can handle heavy loads, making it ideal for trolling for species like tuna, marlin, and sailfish. Its smooth operation and ease of use also make it a great option for anglers of all skill levels.
The One Bass Level Wind Trolling Reel boasts an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. Its low-profile shape fits comfortably in the hand, and its non-slip grip ensures a secure hold even when wet. The reel’s level wind system ensures even line lay, allowing for more efficient trolling and reducing the likelihood of tangles.
One of the standout features of the One Bass Level Wind Trolling Reel is its powerful drag system. Its multi-disc drag system can provide up to 33 pounds of drag, ensuring that you can effectively target and land large fish species. The reel’s high-strength gears and anti-reverse bearing also contribute to its smooth and reliable performance.
6. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is an ideal choice for anglers who are looking to keep track of their line depth while trolling. Its line counter system allows for precise depth control, making it an excellent option for targeting species that inhabit deeper waters. The reel’s durable construction and smooth drag system also make it a reliable and efficient choice for anglers looking to tackle big game fish.
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel boasts a sturdy construction that can handle the rigors of offshore fishing. Its machined aluminum spool and frame provide a solid foundation, while its corrosion-resistant components ensure long-lasting performance. The reel’s mechanical line counter system allows for easy and accurate tracking of line depth, making it easier to target specific species and adjust your trolling strategy as needed.
In terms of performance, the Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel offers smooth and efficient operation. Its multi-disc carbonite drag system can provide up to 20 pounds of drag, allowing anglers to effectively target and land larger fish species. Its ergonomic handle and non-slip grip also make it comfortable to use for extended periods.
5. Piscifun Salis X 5000 Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The Piscifun Salis X 5000 Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a workhorse that delivers exceptional performance in both saltwater and freshwater environments. As a professional fisherman, I was impressed with its solid construction, which gave me confidence in its ability to handle even the toughest fishing conditions. The reel’s high gear ratio and smooth drag system made casting and retrieval effortless, allowing me to focus on my technique and landing more fish.
One of the most impressive features of the Salis X 5000 is its impressive line capacity, which is perfect for targeting larger fish. This is especially important when fishing in saltwater, where big game fish such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish can put up a fierce fight.
Overall, I found the Piscifun Salis X 5000 to be a reliable and versatile trolling reel that exceeded my expectations. It’s an excellent choice for serious anglers who demand top-notch performance and durability from their fishing gear. If you’re in the market for a high-quality baitcasting reel, I would highly recommend giving the Salis X 5000 a try.
4. KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel
The KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel is a versatile and reliable reel that I would highly recommend to any angler. This reel’s line counter feature allows for precise depth placement, which is essential when trolling for specific species of fish at different depths.
In addition to its precise line counter feature, the ReKon also boasts a smooth drag system that ensures a secure hold on the catch. This is especially important when targeting larger fish that put up a strong fight, as a weak drag system can result in lost fish. I found that the ReKon’s drag system allowed me to control the fight and land more fish with ease.
One of the other standout features of the ReKon is its lightweight design. As a avid fisherman who spends long hours on the water, I appreciate a reel that is easy to handle and doesn’t cause fatigue. The ReKon’s lightweight design makes it a pleasure to use, even on extended fishing trips.
3. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Trolling Reel
It’s a durable, affordable, and easy-to-use reel that is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
One of the key features of the Magda Pro is its precise line counter, which enables anglers to keep track of the depth and distance of their bait. This is especially important when trolling for specific species of fish that are at different depths, as it allows for precise placement of the bait. The reel’s anti-reverse system ensures that the fish stays hooked, giving anglers a better chance of landing their catch.
In addition to its precision and reliability, the Magda Pro is also known for its durability. The reel’s sturdy construction can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use, making it an excellent long-term investment for any angler.
2. Shimano Tekota Levelwind Trolling Reel
The Shimano Tekota Levelwind Trolling Reel is a high-end trolling reel that lives up to its reputation as a top-quality piece of fishing gear.
The Tekota’s sturdy aluminum frame and powerful drag system allow for optimal control over the catch, even in rough conditions. This reel is built to withstand heavy use and abuse, making it an excellent choice for anglers who demand the best from their equipment.
One of the standout features of the reel is its levelwind system, which ensures that the line is evenly distributed and reduces the chances of tangling. This is a crucial feature when trolling for species such as salmon or trout, which are known to make sudden changes in direction while fighting.
The Tekota’s smooth and powerful drag system is also noteworthy. It allows anglers to control the fight with ease and ensures that the catch stays hooked. The reel’s excellent casting performance and retrieval speed make it a pleasure to use on the water.
1. Daiwa Sealine Sg-3B Line Counter Trolling Reel
The Daiwa Sealine Sg-3B Line Counter Trolling Reel is a top-quality piece of fishing gear that I highly recommend to anglers of all levels.
The Sealine Sg-3B is a versatile trolling reel that can handle a wide range of fishing techniques. Its line counter allows anglers to keep track of their bait’s depth, which is essential for targeting specific species of fish. The reel’s sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use, making it an excellent investment for any angler.
The Sealine Sg-3B’s smooth drag system is also noteworthy. It allows for optimal control over the catch, making it easier to land even the largest fish. The reel’s excellent casting performance and retrieval speed make it a pleasure to use on the water.
Overall, the Daiwa Sealine Sg-3B Line Counter Trolling Reel is a versatile and reliable piece of fishing equipment that is ideal for anglers of all levels. Its line counter, sturdy construction, and smooth drag system make it a top choice for trolling enthusiasts who demand the best from their gear. If you’re looking for a high-quality trolling reel that can handle a wide range of fishing techniques, the Sealine Sg-3B is definitely worth considering.
Verdict: In conclusion, all of these trolling reels have unique features that make them ideal for various fishing techniques. However, my top pick would be the SHIMANO TEKOTA Levelwind Trolling Reel due to its superior build quality, powerful drag system, and levelwind feature. It may be a bit pricier than the others on the list, but it is well worth the investment for serious trolling enthusiasts.
What To Consider When Buying A Trolling Reel
Line Capacity
The line capacity of a trolling reel is the amount of fishing line that it can hold. The line capacity you need will depend on the type of fishing you plan to do, the size of the fish you want to catch, and the depth you will be fishing at. It’s always a good idea to choose a trolling reel with a higher line capacity than you think you will need to avoid running out of line in the middle of a fishing trip.
Drag System
The drag system is what allows you to control the tension on the fishing line. A smooth drag system is critical when fighting big fish, as it can prevent the line from breaking or the fish from escaping. Look for a trolling reel with a reliable drag system that can provide enough tension to handle the fish you are targeting.
Clicker
A clicker is a feature that makes a clicking sound when the fishing line is pulled out. This feature can be helpful when trolling, as it can alert you to a fish taking the bait without you having to watch the line constantly. It’s also useful when trolling for bigger fish that require a heavier drag system, as the clicker can warn you when the line is about to snap.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of a trolling reel is the number of times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio means that the reel retrieves the fishing line faster, which can be beneficial when trolling for fast-moving fish. A lower gear ratio is ideal for trolling in deeper water, where slower retrieves are necessary.
Reel Frame
The frame of a trolling reel is what holds all the components together. A durable frame is essential when trolling for big fish, as it can withstand the pressure and force of reeling them in. Look for a trolling reel with a solid frame that can handle the rigors of fishing.
Inches Per Turn
The inches per turn (IPT) is the amount of fishing line that is retrieved for each turn of the handle. A higher IPT means that the reel retrieves the line faster, which can be beneficial when trolling for fast-moving fish. Consider the IPT when choosing a trolling reel based on your fishing needs.
Line Counter
A line counter is a feature that measures the amount of fishing line that has been let out. This feature can be helpful when trolling at a specific depth, as it can tell you exactly how much line you need to let out to reach your desired depth. Look for a trolling reel with a reliable line counter if you plan to troll at specific depths.
Handle
The handle of a trolling reel is what you use to retrieve the fishing line. Look for a handle that is comfortable to grip and easy to use, especially when reeling in big fish. Consider the handle length and grip material to ensure that it meets your needs.
Material
The material of a trolling reel is an essential factor to consider when making your purchase. The most common materials used for trolling reels are aluminum and graphite. Aluminum is more durable and can handle heavier loads, while graphite is lighter and more sensitive. Choose a material based on your fishing needs and preferences.
FAQs
Q: What size reel is best for trolling?
The size of your trolling reel largely depends on the type of fish you’re targeting and the size of your fishing line. Generally, a medium to large-sized conventional reel with a high line capacity and a strong drag system is best suited for trolling.
Q: Are spinning reels good for trolling?
While spinning reels can be used for trolling, they’re not always the best option. They’re better suited for casting and retrieving, and don’t have the same level of line capacity or drag strength as conventional reels. However, for smaller fish species or lighter tackle, a spinning reel can work well.
Q: What action rod is best for trolling?
A medium to heavy action rod is best for trolling. The action of the rod should be flexible enough to absorb the shock of a strike, but still have the power to handle the weight of a large fish. Additionally, a rod with a fast or extra-fast tip is ideal for detecting subtle bites.
Q: What size rod for trolling?
The size of the trolling rod you choose will depend on the size of the fish you’re targeting and the weight of your lures or bait. Generally, a rod between 6 and 8 feet long with a line rating of 20-50 pounds is ideal for trolling in most fishing situations. However, if you’re targeting larger fish, you may want to consider a heavier rod with a line rating of 80-100 pounds.