Imagine this: you’re out on the water, the sun is shining, and your line is singing as it cuts through the waves. Trolling is an amazing way to cover more water and find those big, hungry fish. But here’s the thing: choosing the right fishing reel for trolling can feel like navigating a maze. You want a reel that’s tough, smooth, and can handle whatever the deep blue throws at it, but all the jargon and different types can be super confusing. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder if you’re picking the best tool for the job.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of trolling reels. In this post, we’re going to break down what makes a great trolling reel, what features you should look for, and how to pick the perfect one for your fishing adventures. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes and gain the confidence to choose a reel that will help you land more fish. Get ready to upgrade your trolling game and make every cast count!
Our Top 5 Fishing Reels For Trolling Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Fishing Reels For Trolling Detailed Reviews
1. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX is a fantastic reel for anglers who want to keep track of their line. It’s built tough but feels light in your hands, making it comfortable for long days on the water. This reel helps you know exactly how much line you have out, which is super helpful when you’re trolling or fishing deep.
What We Like:
- It’s super light and compact, so it’s easy to hold all day.
- The graphite frame is strong and won’t rust.
- The line counter tells you exactly how much line you’ve let out in feet.
- It has a smooth drag system that helps when a big fish pulls hard.
- The stainless steel ball bearings make cranking feel smooth.
- The self-lubricating gears mean less maintenance.
- It comes in different sizes and for left or right-handed people.
- It can hold a good amount of line (420 yards of 20 lb test).
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some might prefer a metal frame for extreme conditions.
- The “small” size might be too small for very large saltwater species.
This reel is a solid choice for many fishing adventures. It offers great features at a good value, helping you catch more fish.
2. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
Rating: 9.0/10
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D is built for serious anglers who crave adventure on the water. This reel is designed to handle the demands of trolling, making it a valuable tool for any fisherman looking to explore new fishing spots or target specific species. Its robust construction and smart features help you reel in your catch with confidence.
What We Like:
- This reel is very light. It won’t weigh down your fishing rod.
- The frame and sideplates resist rust and damage from saltwater. This means it will last a long time.
- It has a strong drag system. This system uses carbonite discs to help you control big fish.
- The aluminum handle is tough. The special knobs on the handle are comfortable to hold, even during long fishing trips.
- It’s perfect for outdoor adventures and fits an active lifestyle.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the reel is generally well-built, some users might find the linecounter a bit tricky to read in bright sunlight.
- More color options could be available to match different rod aesthetics.
This Okuma reel offers reliable performance for trolling enthusiasts. It’s a solid choice for anyone serious about their time spent fishing.
3. 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 a great choice for anglers looking for a reliable and affordable trolling reel. It’s built with strong graphite materials, making it light and tough for long days on the water. This reel is designed for freshwater fishing and offers smooth performance thanks to its ball bearings and level wind system.
What We Like:
- It’s made from lightweight and durable graphite, so it won’t weigh you down.
- You get 26 inches of line back with every crank, making reeling in easier.
- The reel has a smooth feel thanks to 2 ball bearings and a stainless steel level wind.
- Its multi-disc drag system provides a strong and steady drag of up to 15 pounds, helping you fight bigger fish.
- Shakespeare has a long history of making quality fishing gear since 1897.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions line counter and non-line counter options, but it’s not clear if this specific model has a line counter.
- While built for freshwater, its suitability for saltwater use isn’t detailed.
This Shakespeare ATS reel offers solid performance for its price point. It’s a dependable tool for any freshwater angler seeking a good trolling experience.
4. Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to conquer the open water with the Burning Shark SHA40 Trolling Reel. This reel is built tough for serious saltwater fishing. It’s designed to handle big fish and tough conditions. You can trust it for everything from trolling for salmon to bottom fishing for grouper.
What We Like:
- Heavy-Duty Saltwater Performance: The solid metal body and 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings make it super smooth. It can handle up to 40 lbs of drag without a problem. The corrosion-resistant parts and Carbonite drag system mean it won’t quit, even in the salty ocean.
- Precision Trolling & Level Wind Control: The 4.1:1 gear ratio is just right for balancing speed and power. Its level wind feature spreads your line evenly, so you won’t get tangles on long casts. This is great for catching fast-swimming fish.
- Ergonomic & Fatigue-Free Handling: At only 23 oz, this reel won’t tire out your wrist during long fights. The instant anti-reverse bearing locks on tight when you get a bite. The star drag knob lets you make small adjustments easily to wear down big fish.
- Pro-Grade Value: You get top-notch features like a forged aluminum spool and a strong double-dog anti-reverse without breaking the bank. This reel gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
- 3-Year Worry Free: Burning Shark backs this reel with a 3-year limited service. It’s a smart investment for anglers who need gear they can count on.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the SHA40 offers excellent value, serious anglers might find the drag system could offer even finer micro-adjustments for extremely specialized techniques.
- The reel is built for durability, but its weight, while reduced, might still be noticeable for anglers accustomed to ultra-lightweight spinning reels during very long casting sessions.
The Burning Shark SHA40 is a reliable and capable saltwater trolling reel. It offers great performance and value for anglers looking for a dependable workhorse.
5. SAMOLLA Deep Sea Fishing Reel 66Lb Max Drag Baitcasting Fishing Reel Freshwater Saltwater Inshore Surf Trolling Reel Ocean Conventional Reel for Tuna Sailfish Swordfish TG12000
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of losing big fish? The SAMOLLA TG12000 Deep Sea Fishing Reel is built to handle your toughest battles. This baitcasting reel is crafted for both freshwater and saltwater, making it a versatile choice for inshore, surf, and trolling adventures. It’s designed to give you the power and control needed to land trophy catches like tuna, sailfish, and swordfish with confidence.
What We Like:
- 66Lb Max Drag: This reel offers massive stopping power. It locks down big fish, preventing them from running with your line.
- CNC-Machined Durability: Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, this reel is built tough. It resists corrosion in saltwater and handles hundreds of fights without wearing out.
- Smooth Operation: The 8+1 ball bearing system and 3.4:1 gear ratio provide effortless cranking. It feels smooth even when fighting hard-running fish.
- Large Line Capacity: With a capacity of 0.5/620 and 0.6/430, you have plenty of line for the longest runs. This reel is great for rivers, lakes, and the ocean.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing only 820g, it won’t tire you out on long fishing days. The ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue.
- Versatile Use: It works as an ice fishing reel and a surf fishing reel. You can easily adjust the drag for different species.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: For beginners, mastering the baitcasting reel’s controls might take some practice.
- Price Point: While offering great value, the initial investment might be higher than simpler reels.
The SAMOLLA TG12000 reel is a powerful and reliable tool for serious anglers. It’s engineered to help you land your next monster catch.
Choosing the Right Fishing Reel for Trolling
Trolling is a fantastic way to cover a lot of water and find fish. It involves dragging a lure or bait through the water while your boat moves. To do this effectively, you need a reliable trolling reel. This guide will help you pick the best one for your fishing adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking for a trolling reel, several features make a big difference.
1. Gear Ratio
The gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns for one crank of the handle. For trolling, you usually want a lower gear ratio, like 3.0:1 to 5.0:1. This gives you more power to reel in big fish that are pulling hard. A lower ratio helps you fight strong currents too.
2. Drag System
The drag system is super important. It lets out line when a fish pulls hard, stopping your line from breaking. Look for smooth and strong drag systems. Carbon fiber or felt washers are common and work well. You want a drag that you can adjust easily.
3. Line Capacity
Trolling often means letting out a lot of line. Your reel needs to hold enough fishing line. Check the reel’s specifications for how much line of a certain pound test it can hold. You don’t want to run out of line when a big fish strikes!
4. Durability and Construction
Trolling reels take a beating. They need to be tough. Look for reels made from strong materials that can handle saltwater and weather. A good reel will last you many seasons.
5. Level Wind Feature
A level wind is a guide that automatically spools your line evenly. This makes casting and retrieving much easier. It prevents line tangles, which is a big help when you’re focused on fishing.
Important Materials
The materials used in a reel affect its strength and how long it lasts.
- Aluminum: Many trolling reels use aluminum frames and spools. Aluminum is strong and lightweight. It holds up well against corrosion, especially anodized aluminum.
- Graphite: Some reels use graphite for their bodies. Graphite is very light but can be less durable than aluminum.
- Stainless Steel: Internal parts like gears and bearings are often made of stainless steel. This material is tough and resists rust.
- Carbon Fiber: This material is used for drag washers. It provides smooth and consistent drag pressure.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a trolling reel great or not so great.
- Smooth Bearings: More ball bearings generally mean smoother operation. However, the quality of the bearings matters more than just the number.
- Corrosion Resistance: If you fish in saltwater, a reel that resists corrosion is essential. Sealed drag systems and corrosion-resistant coatings help a lot.
- Build Quality: A well-built reel feels solid. There shouldn’t be any loose parts or wobbly handles. Tight tolerances in manufacturing lead to better performance.
- Ease of Maintenance: A reel that’s easy to clean and lubricate will last longer and perform better.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a reel feels and performs in your hands is crucial.
- Comfort: The handle should feel comfortable to grip, especially during long trolling sessions.
- Smooth Operation: The reel should crank smoothly without any grinding or stiffness.
- Reliable Drag: The drag should engage and disengage smoothly. It should hold a fish without slipping or sticking.
- Trolling Specifics: Trolling reels are designed for specific tasks. Some are built for heavy saltwater trolling for big game fish. Others are smaller and work well for lighter trolling in lakes or rivers for species like salmon or walleye.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Trolling Reels
Q: What is the best gear ratio for trolling?
A: For trolling, a lower gear ratio, usually between 3.0:1 and 5.0:1, is best. This gives you more cranking power to fight fish and manage your line against currents.
Q: Do I need a level wind on my trolling reel?
A: A level wind makes spooling line evenly much easier and helps prevent tangles. It’s a very helpful feature for trolling.
Q: How important is the drag system?
A: The drag system is extremely important. It protects your line from breaking by releasing line when a fish pulls hard. Look for smooth and adjustable drag.
Q: Can I use a baitcasting reel for trolling?
A: Yes, many baitcasting reels can be used for trolling, especially if they have features like a strong drag, good line capacity, and a lower gear ratio. However, dedicated trolling reels are often built tougher for this specific purpose.
Q: What is line capacity, and why does it matter for trolling?
A: Line capacity is how much fishing line your reel can hold. For trolling, you often let out a lot of line, so a reel with good line capacity prevents you from running out of line when a fish bites.
Q: How do I maintain my trolling reel?
A: After fishing, rinse your reel with fresh water, especially if you were in saltwater. Periodically, you should clean and lubricate the reel’s moving parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What are the best materials for a durable trolling reel?
A: Reels made with aluminum frames and stainless steel internal parts are generally very durable and resist corrosion well.
Q: What kind of fish can I target with a trolling reel?
A: Trolling reels are used for a wide variety of fish. Smaller ones can be used for salmon, walleye, and trout. Larger, heavier-duty reels are for big game fish like tuna, marlin, and kingfish.
Q: Should I buy a reel for saltwater or freshwater trolling?
A: If you fish in saltwater, you need a reel with excellent corrosion resistance. Reels designed for saltwater have special coatings and sealed components to handle the harsh environment.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good trolling reel?
A: Prices vary widely. You can find decent entry-level trolling reels for around $75-$150. High-end, heavy-duty reels for big game fishing can cost $300 or much more.
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.