The Best Fishing Reels
For both amateur and veteran anglers, a good fishing reel can mean the difference between a catch and a loss, between a haul and a skunk. But purchasing a new reel can be overwhelming for even the most expert among us. From weight to gear ratio, there are many factors to consider in such an important selection. So, we've gathered some of the best options available in order to help you reel in your next big catch.
KastKing Summer and Centron Spinning Reels
Power meets performance
This model from KastKing combines both power and performance in a narrow graphite frame, setting the standard for comparable reels. Comprised of an alloy drive gear and chain, the superior drag system offers an incredible 17.5 pounds of drag. The 9+1 MaxiDur ball bearings keep the performance smooth and responsive to the reel’s machined aluminum spool, which is also anodized for corrosion resistance. Available in two colorways — the Summer in white and the Centron in black — these sleek reels are great regardless of your age or experience level.
Pros:
- Graphite frame is light and corrosion-resistant
- Alloy drive gear and chain are precision machined to maximize drag
- Lower gear ratio offers greater torque and accommodates heavier baits for spinning reel
Cons:
- Not ideal for saltwater fishing
KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel
Versatility is dependability
KastKing’s Rover Round Baitcasting Reel offers the features you need to catch bigger fish. The all-metal body, anodized aluminum side plates, stainless steel main shaft, and stainless steel ball bearings ensure that this reel will perform reliably in both freshwater or saltwater environments. The Rover’s versatility is only complemented by its power, as KastKing’s newly designed cymbal washer system offers up to 30 pounds of drag in the reel’s larger sizes. An oversized T-handle with a nonslip grip provides consistent control of the reel’s 5.3:1–3.6:1 gear ratio and maximizes its torque. If you’re an experienced angler, all of these features in a conventional design make this reel a dependable classic.
Pros:
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Cymbal washer system offers excellent drag
- Handle has a nonslip grip
Cons:
- Design is not ambidextrous
Piscifun Flame Spinning Reel
High quality, low cost
The Flame is Piscifun’s attempt to offer the features of more expensive reels in an economical package, and as far as we’re concerned they’ve succeeded. The Flame is lightweight and yet powerful, boasting up to 19.8 pounds of drag in its larger sizes. Power aside, it also offers smoothness in the form of 9+1 stainless steel ball bearings, triple drag washers, and a corrosion-resistant zinc drive gear. But the Flame’s most notable feature is its braid-ready spool, normally available on only higher-end spinning reels. With this, you have the option of attaching braided line directly to the spool without a monofilament backer to prevent slippage. And when it comes to fishing, the more options you have, the better.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Larger sizes offer significant drag within a budget
- Braid ready spool
- Aesthetic matches its name
Cons:
- The bail arm can clip your hands on retrieval
Penn Slammer III Spinning Fishing Reel
Solid, smooth, and stainless
Primarily a surfcasting and boat reel, the Slammer III is a premium tool at a premium price. But while the price is high, so is this reel’s value. With a body, sideplate, and rotor made completely out of aluminum, the Slammer III is sealed to IPX6 specifications, which means that its internal mechanisms are protected against sea spray and other environmental forces. The Slammer III also features Penn’s Dura-Drag System which provides consistent and smooth drag, up to 60 pounds. The brass CNC Gear technology is machined to incredibly tight tolerances so as to achieve an ideal responsiveness to the reel’s 6+1 stainless steel bearing system. In other words, this reel will deliver what you demand of it.
Pros:
- Sealed to IPX6 specifications
- Offers up to 60 pounds of drag in larger sizes
- Tight tolerances result in tight action with no play
Cons:
- Can be too much reel if not used for surfcasting or boat fishing
Pflueger President Spinning Fish Reel
Durability is presidential
Pflueger’s President has a reputation for toughness and longevity and its easy to see why. This reel’s body is constructed from lightweight graphite and it houses corrosion-resistant stainless steel components. The handle is stainless steel, as is the ball bearing system which offers two options: 6+1 for the smallest and 9+1 for every other size. A double-anodized aluminum spool and a solid aluminum bail wire accent the reel and add to its ruggedness. And as if that wasn’t enough, the reel’s multi-disc, sealed drag system offers precision control. All of this makes the President your sturdy companion
Pros:
- Robust construction
- Ball bearing options vary according to reel size
- Gear ratio consistent across sizes
Cons:
- Maximum drag of reel’s largest size only 14 pounds
Frequently Asked Questions
How important is weight when choosing a fishing reel?
The weight of the fishing reel directly affects the balance of your fishing rod and your ability to maneuver the whole rod in space. A heavier reel is more difficult to maneuver, and will become more fatiguing the longer you are fishing. While a light reel can be handled more easily, this will usually come at the cost of power or heavier fishing line test unless you are willing to pay for higher quality equipment. As you consider the weight of your fishing reel, you should also consider what kind of fish you’re going to use it to catch.
How important is the number ball bearings in a fishing reel?
The number of ball bearings in a fishing reel affects the action of the reel — its consistency, responsiveness, and smoothness. While a simple rule of thumb is to always favor reels that have more ball bearings, keep in mind that quantity isn’t everything; the quality of the ball bearings will also effect in the reel’s durability. Sealed bearings, for example, offer the most protection against corrosion, and many quality reels typically use stainless steel ball bearings.
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