Ever stared at a wall of shiny fishing reels, feeling completely lost? You know you need a good trolling reel for those long, patient waits for a big catch, but picking the right one feels like navigating a maze. It’s frustrating when you’re ready to hit the water, but you’re stuck trying to figure out which reel will actually do the job without breaking the bank or your spirit.
Choosing a trolling reel is important because it can make or break your fishing trip. A bad reel can lead to tangled lines, lost fish, and a whole lot of disappointment. We get it – the options are overwhelming, and knowing what features actually matter can be tough. That’s why we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about trolling reels. We’ll explore the different types, what to look for, and some top picks that won’t let you down. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a reel that’s perfect for your fishing adventures. Let’s dive in and find your next great fishing companion!
Our Top 5 Trolling Reels Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trolling Reels Detailed Reviews
1. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX is a fantastic reel for anglers looking for precision and comfort on the water. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle all day, while the corrosion-resistant materials ensure it stands up to the elements. This reel is designed to help you catch more fish by giving you control and confidence with every cast and retrieve.
What We Like:
- It’s super light and small, making it comfortable to hold for a long time.
- The built-in line counter tells you exactly how much line you’ve let out in feet. This helps you put your lure in the perfect spot.
- The drag system is smooth and strong, ready for when a big fish decides to run.
- Cranking the handle feels smooth thanks to the stainless steel ball bearings.
- It’s part of a whole family of reels, so you can find the right one for any type of fishing.
- The frame and side plates are tough and resist rust.
- It can hold a good amount of line, like 420 yards of 20-pound test.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some anglers might prefer a metal frame for extreme heavy-duty use.
- The line counter is mechanical, which is great, but some modern reels offer digital counters.
Overall, this reel offers excellent value for its features. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a reliable and accurate trolling reel.
2. PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Inshore/Nearshore Fishing Reel
Rating: 9.0/10
The PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Inshore/Nearshore Fishing Reel is a great choice for anglers looking for a reliable reel for fishing near the coast. It’s built to handle a variety of inshore and nearshore fishing situations. The reel is designed for both beginners and experienced fishermen.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight thanks to its graphite frame and sideplates.
- The forged and machined aluminum spool is strong and durable.
- The auto-engaging gears make it easy to cast and retrieve.
- The HT-100 star drag system offers a strong drag of up to 15 pounds, which helps tire out fish without tiring you out.
- Line capacity rings on the spool take the guesswork out of knowing how much line you have left.
- The shielded 2-ball bearing system provides good control when you’re fighting a fish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the graphite frame is lightweight, some anglers might prefer an all-metal construction for maximum durability in harsh saltwater environments.
- The 15lb max drag is suitable for many inshore species but might be limiting for larger, stronger nearshore fish.
This PENN Rival reel offers a good balance of features and performance for its price point. It’s a solid option for anglers wanting a dependable reel for their inshore adventures.
3. Okuma CLX-300La Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Okuma CLX-300La Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable reel. Its “300 Reel Size” means it’s a good size for many fishing situations. The “3.8:1 Gear Ratio” tells you it’s built for steady retrieval, perfect for pulling in fish without a frantic fight. Plus, it brings in “24 inches” of line with each crank, making your fishing experience more efficient. With a “17 lb Max Drag,” it can handle a decent amount of pressure, and the “Right Hand” design is comfortable for most users. It comes in a classic “Black” color.
What We Like:
- The reel has a “Lightweight Corrosion Resistant Frame And Side Plates,” which means it won’t rust easily and is easy to hold for long periods.
- It features “Corrosion Resistant Graphite Spools,” adding to its durability against the elements.
- The “Stainless Steel Reel Foot” ensures a strong and secure connection to your fishing rod.
- You get a sturdy “Aluminum Power Handle” that provides good grip and leverage when reeling in your catch.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the reel is generally robust, some users might prefer a slightly higher drag capacity for targeting larger, more powerful fish.
- The retrieve rate, while steady, might feel a bit slow for anglers who prefer very fast line pickup for certain techniques.
This Okuma reel offers good value and dependable performance for a variety of fishing trips. It’s a reel that’s built to last and help you enjoy your time on the water.
4. Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position is built for anglers who want dependable performance without breaking the bank. This reel is made from strong, light graphite, making it easy to handle on long fishing trips. It’s designed for freshwater fishing and offers a smooth retrieve thanks to its ball bearings and level wind system. Whether you’re a beginner or have been fishing for years, this reel aims to make your experience more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- It’s made of lightweight, durable graphite, so it’s not heavy to carry.
- You get 26 inches of line back with each crank, which is pretty fast.
- The reel has 2 ball bearings for a smooth feel when you reel in your catch.
- Its multi-disc drag system provides a steady drag up to 15 pounds, helping you control bigger fish.
- Shakespeare has a long history of making quality fishing gear since 1897.
- Line counter options are available, which is helpful for trolling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The reel is primarily built for freshwater, limiting its use in saltwater environments.
- While durable, the graphite construction might not feel as robust as metal reels for some anglers.
This Shakespeare ATS reel offers great value and reliable performance for freshwater trolling. It’s a solid choice for anglers looking for an affordable yet capable fishing reel.
5. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Okuma Magda Pro MA-20DXT trolling reel is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable reel. This reel is designed for trolling, which means you drag your lure behind a moving boat. It’s built to handle the demands of this fishing style. The black and silver finish gives it a sleek look. This reel is a good option for those who want a line counter to help them measure how much line they let out.
What We Like:
- The line counter is a big help. It accurately tells you how much line is out, which is super important when trolling.
- It has a 5.1:1 gear ratio. This means it picks up line pretty quickly, making it easier to reel in your catch.
- The multi-disc Carbonite drag system provides smooth and consistent pressure on the fish. This helps prevent line breaks.
- It features 2 stainless steel ball bearings. These help the reel spin smoothly.
- The frame and side plates are made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials. This means the reel won’t get heavy or rust easily, even in saltwater.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some anglers, a reel with more ball bearings might offer even smoother operation.
- While it’s good for its price, serious tournament anglers might look for higher-end features.
Overall, the Okuma Magda Pro MA-20DXT is a dependable and user-friendly reel. It’s a great value for its features, making it a smart addition to your fishing gear.
Choosing the Right Trolling Reel: Your Guide to Landing the Big Ones
Fishing with a trolling reel helps you catch fish by dragging your lure through the water. This method is great for covering a lot of ground and finding active fish. Whether you are fishing for big game offshore or smaller fish on a lake, the right trolling reel makes a big difference. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Gear Ratio
The gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns for one turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio (like 6.0:1) means you reel in line faster. This is good for covering water quickly. A lower gear ratio (like 4.0:1) gives you more power to fight big fish. Think about what kind of fish you want to catch. For big, strong fish, you need more power. For faster fishing, you need speed.
2. Drag System
The drag system lets line out when a fish pulls hard. This stops your line from breaking. Look for reels with smooth and strong drag. Carbon fiber drag washers are the best. They give you consistent drag pressure. A reel with a good drag system protects your line and helps you land your catch.
3. Line Capacity
Line capacity is how much fishing line the reel can hold. Big fish swim far. You need a reel that can hold enough line for a long fight. Check the reel’s specifications for line capacity. It is usually listed with different line diameters (like 30lb, 50lb). More line capacity means you are ready for any surprise.
4. Levelwind Feature
A levelwind is a small guide that moves back and forth. It helps you wind the line evenly onto the spool. This prevents line tangles. Most trolling reels have this feature. It makes casting and retrieving much easier.
Important Materials
The materials of a trolling reel affect its strength and how long it lasts. Good trolling reels use strong and lightweight materials.
- Aluminum: Many reels use aluminum for their frames and spools. It is strong and does not rust easily. Machined aluminum is even better because it is very precise and durable.
- Graphite: Some reels use graphite for parts like the side plates. Graphite is lighter than aluminum. It can make the reel lighter to hold.
- Stainless Steel: Gears and other internal parts are often made of stainless steel. This material is very strong and resists corrosion, which is important when fishing in saltwater.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Reel Better:
- Sealed Drag and Bearings: Seals keep water and dirt out. This helps the reel work smoothly for a long time.
- Corrosion Resistance: Especially for saltwater fishing, a reel needs to resist rust and corrosion. Look for reels made with materials that do not easily corrode.
- Smooth Operation: A good reel feels smooth when you crank the handle. This comes from well-made parts and good bearings.
What Makes a Reel Lower Quality:
- Plastic Parts: Reels with too many plastic parts are usually not as strong or durable.
- Rough Operation: If the reel feels stiff or makes grinding noises, it might not be well-made.
- Poor Drag: A drag that is jerky or does not hold pressure well can lead to lost fish.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good trolling reel should be comfortable to hold and easy to use. The handle should feel good in your hand. The reel should cast smoothly and retrieve line without much effort.
Use Cases:
- Saltwater Trolling: For big game fish like marlin or tuna, you need a powerful reel with high line capacity and strong drag.
- Freshwater Trolling: For fish like pike or walleye, you might use a slightly smaller reel. Speed can be more important here.
- Downrigging: This is a type of trolling where you use a weight to send your lure deep. Reels with good line counters can help you know how deep your lure is.
Choosing the right trolling reel helps you enjoy fishing more. It gives you confidence when you hook a big one. Consider these features and factors to find a reel that fits your fishing style and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trolling Reels
Q: What is the most important feature in a trolling reel?
A: The most important feature depends on what you fish for. But a smooth and strong drag system is crucial for all types of trolling.
Q: Do I need a levelwind on my trolling reel?
A: A levelwind makes line management much easier and prevents tangles. It is highly recommended for most anglers.
Q: How much line capacity do I need?
A: If you are fishing for large, powerful fish, you need more line capacity. For smaller fish or shorter fights, less line is okay.
Q: Is aluminum a good material for trolling reels?
A: Yes, aluminum is a strong and common material for trolling reels. Machined aluminum offers the best durability.
Q: What is a good gear ratio for trolling?
A: A gear ratio between 4.0:1 and 6.0:1 is common. Lower ratios offer more power, while higher ratios offer more speed.
Q: Can I use a trolling reel for other types of fishing?
A: Yes, some trolling reels can be used for bottom fishing or jigging, especially if they have good drag and line capacity.
Q: How do I maintain my trolling reel?
A: After each use, especially in saltwater, rinse your reel with fresh water. Periodically, you should clean and lubricate the internal parts.
Q: What does “sealed drag” mean?
A: Sealed drag means the drag system is protected from water and dirt, which helps it perform better and last longer.
Q: Should I choose a baitcasting or spinning reel for trolling?
A: Trolling reels are typically baitcasting reels because they offer more power, control, and line capacity for trolling applications.
Q: How does the price of a trolling reel relate to its quality?
A: Generally, more expensive reels use better materials and have more advanced features, leading to higher quality and better performance. However, you can find good quality reels at various price points.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.