Fishing from a moving boat can be an interesting experience, especially if you’ve never tried it before. This particular practice is known as trolling. You can catch bigger fish as the fishing line goes much deeper underwater than with conventional rods and reels.
Why do people like troll fishing so much? This sort of fishing covers a wider area, so your catch will be a lot more diverse. More importantly, you can enjoy the breeze and the waves while the reel does most of the work.
As always, you do need special equipment when trolling. Trolling reels are extremely efficient when fishing this way. We are going to look into the best trolling reels and why they are worth buying.
Before we dive into the actual reviews, let’s have a quick look at troll fishing in general.
How Do Trolling Reels Work?
Like we mentioned before, trolling reels work from moving boats or other fishing vessels. An offshore fishing reel for trolling is generally made from graphite so it won’t rust or corrode in saltwater. Moreover, they only differ slightly from ordinary spinning reels or baitcasting ones.
The main difference between them and trolling reels is that these reels are made to be dropped into the water behind the fish, instead of being cast into the waves. They are also larger than traditional fishing reels and can hold more of the line.
Furthermore, these reels also have bigger reel handles, stronger drag systems, and a handy bait clicker feature. All these things mean that you need to be extra careful when choosing a trolling reel.
Why Trolling Reels are So Great
Troll fishing has a number of advantages, which makes it different from pier or kayak fishing. With the right kind of trolling reel, you will be able to:
- Catch more fish.
- Catch larger fish of different species.
- Cover more ground on a moving vessel.
- Relax as the rod and reel make fishing almost effortless.
The Best Trolling Reels You Can Buy Right Now
| Top Pick | 01. OKUMA Coldwater Wireline High-Speed Trolling Reel: Okuma is always the brand that we keep going back to. They make some of the best rods and reels and this trolling reel really is the cherry on top. It has been used by serious anglers and fishermen everywhere because of its reliability and high-quality. 01. Has a very smooth drag. 02. Lightweight and easy to handle. 03. The aluminum frame brings sturdiness and durability. | 9.9 | Check Price |
| Runner Up | 02. Abu Garcia Black Low-Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel: If you’ve used Abu Garcia trolling reels, you’re in for a real treat with this one. Well-built and durable, it is meant for hard-core fishing trips and made to catch big and aggressive fish. 01. Smooth and efficient retrieval. 02. Works pretty quietly. 03. Good for beginners. | 9.8 | Check Price |
| High Performance | 03. KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel : Good saltwater trolling reels are one of the best investments an angler can make. If you want a reel that works mechanically and helps you keep track of your line, this one is it. Give one of their two sizes a try and sit back and watch your catch! 01. Reasonably affordable. 02. Plenty of line capacity. 03. The line counter is very accurate. | 9.7 | Check Price |
| For Fishing Pros | 04. Penn Special Senator Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel: Any serious angler has used Penn equipment at some point. They work extremely well, last for ages, and are a favorite among fishing professionals. This can be seen once again in the Penn trolling reel, which is a durable and well-made reel for deep-sea fishing. 01. The best bottom fishing reel. 02. Lightweight and compact design. 03. Easy to use and maintain. | 9.6 | Check Price |
| Budget Pick | 05. Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B Line Fishing Reel: Want an amazing reel that won’t burn a hole through your wallet? Daiwa trolling reels fall right into this category. If you are into catching walleye, and looking for the best level wind reel, this is the one for you. 01. Perfect casting and retrieval. 02. Smooth and easy operation. 03. Low maintenance unit. | 9.5 | Check Price |
| Long-lasting Model | 06. Okuma Cold Water Line-counter Reel: This entry is further proof that anglers just can’t get enough of Okuma trolling reels. The reason? Reels like this one are made from the best quality materials and are built to last a lifetime. 01. Lightweight, yet strong. 02. Can handle larger fish without damage. 03. Good value for money. | 9.4 | Check Price |
| Powerful Drag | 07. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel: Need a fancy-looking reel that packs a lot of power? We are absolutely smitten with how well this operates. Best of all, it comes in a range of sizes and models with options for left-handed people as well! 01. Resistant to corrosion. 02. Self-lubricating gear system. 03. Powerful and seamless operation. | 9.3 | Check Price |
| Sturdy Construction | 08. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel: If you’re new to the whole trolling thing, you might be worried about how your reel will hold when fishing from a moving vessel. Beginners also fret over this because there is fear about mishandling or breaking a delicate reel. Not with this one! It can handle anything you throw at it! 01. Operates smoothly. 02. Excellent braking system. 03. Not too expensive. | 9.2 | Check Price |
| Smooth Operation | 09. Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel: This is yet another durable and affordable reel that performs exceptionally well. It has a line counter which allows you to keep your bait in the preferred fishing distance. At the same time, it is built to withstand heavy-duty use without sustaining damage. 01. Good starter reel for trolling. 02. Very affordable price. 03. Works well for larger or heavier fish. | 9.1 | Check Price |
| For Larger Fish | 10. Piscifun Salis X Trolling Reel: Like battling huge monsters when you’re out on the water? This reel has the strength and durability for handling big game fish in an assortment of saltwater conditions. The attractive gold and black design also make it an attractive choice for your fishing arsenal! 01. Smooth and easy line release. 02. Offers high-speed trolling. 03. Gives an instant response when the hook is active. | 9.0 | Check Price |
| Luxury Option | 11. GOMEXUS Saltwater Trolling Reel: Looking for the best 2 speed reel that comes in an unforgettably eye-catching design? This particular model is difficult to miss. It also makes your overall fishing experience a lot more fun! 01. The slow gear ratio gives it lasting endurance for large fish. 02. Solid line capacity and drag power. 03. A sturdy build makes it long-lasting and powerful. | 8.9 | Check Price |
| Bargain Pick | 12. One Bass Fishing Reels Level Wind Trolling Reel: Need a reel that works for trolling and is under a hundred dollars? This is a pretty underrated and solidly reliable reel. It works well, the drag has a decent speed and retrieval is seamless. If you’re looking for the cheapest option that performs without a hitch, this one’s your best bet. 01. Good speed and gear ratio. 02. Very affordable. 03. The casting system is easy to adjust and control. | 8.8 | Check Price |
| Convenient Choice | 13. Burning Shark Saltwater Trolling Reel: This high-quality trolling real is a good choice as it is quietly powerful and works with efficiency and effectiveness. It is designed with low maintenance and sturdy construction as the priority. Using it is easy and hassle-free, which makes it good to have when trolling. 01. Compact and lightweight. 02. Great value for money. 03. Feels comfortable to use. | 8.7 | Check Price |
| Solid Performance | 14. Sougayilang Level Wind Conventional Trolling Reel: This Sougayilang reel is a great option for a simple conventional trolling reel that is no-fuss and low maintenance. It is a great reel for those who are always chasing huge trophy fish. 01. Attractive design. 02. Lightweight design. 03. Good line capacity. | 8.6 | Check Price |
Top 14 Best Trolling Reels Reviews
Now let’s move onto the portion you’ve been really waiting for–our reviews of the best trolling reels out there. We rank them from the best, talk about how they are designed, their performance, and what we liked about them.
With these reviews, you will get an idea of the trolling reel that will work best for you.
01. OKUMA Coldwater Wireline High-Speed Trolling Reel (Top Pick)
Okuma is always the brand that we keep going back to. They make some of the best rods and reels and this trolling reel is the cherry on top. It has been used by serious anglers and fishermen everywhere because of its reliability and high-quality.
The frame and side-plates are lightweight, yet strong enough to withstand corrosion. The gigantic gearing and its drop-down gearbox are self-lubricating. Moreover, the brass pinion gears of the reel are machine cut and are extremely heavy-duty.
Also, there is a multi-disc carbonite drag system and a ratcheting drag star which makes the drag settings exact. The reel also has a dual anti-reverse system that results in seamless retrieval. You will also find left-hand and right-hand retrieval options, which makes things a bit more convenient.
The Mechanical Stabilizing System (MSS) of the rod makes the entire unit very sturdy. The alignment of shafts and gears also results in great performance. With this reel, you will be able to catch things like catfish, striped bass, salmon, mackerel, kingfish, bluefin tuna, or marlin.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 26.3 x 7.3 x 9.4 inches
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Manufacturer: Okuma
Pros:
- Has a very smooth drag.
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- The aluminum frame brings sturdiness and durability.
- Great value for money.
Cons:
- The clicker is rather noisy and distracting.
Why We Recommend It:
We loved this unit for its near-perfect performance, making it one of the best trolling reels with a line counter. Its durability is also impressive, which gives the reel good value.
As it is lightweight, it is easy for beginners to maneuver. Between all these features and its silky-smooth drag, you won’t regret getting this trolling reel.
02. Abu Garcia Black Low-Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel (Runner Up)
If you’ve used Abu Garcia trolling reels, you’re in for a real treat with this one. Well-built and durable, it is meant for hard-core fishing trips and made to catch big and aggressive fish.
This reel has an ergonomic handle for maximum comfort during retrieval. It is also pretty light which makes it easier to handle when dealing with a tough catch. However, it is strong with a solid line capacity of 12 pounds and 145 yards, making it easier to catch large or heavy fish?
The drag performance of this reel is what makes it stand out. The smooth drag system and brake system lets you control the maximum drag up to 15 pounds. Furthermore, the dual-system brake (especially the MagTrax) enables you to drop and retrieve the line more efficiently.
It also has 4 stainless ball bearings that make it very easy to retrieve your line. Besides this, the reel has a clear tip that adds to the reel’s sensitivity and strength.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 3 inches
- Weight: 0.32 kilograms
- Manufacturer: Abu Garcia
Pros:
- Smooth and efficient retrieval.
- Works pretty quietly.
- Good for beginners.
- Durable and sturdy.
Cons:
- There are no click-stops on the star drag.
Why We Recommend It:
Using this reel will show you why it is such a fan favorite. It’s smooth and seamless operation puts it among the best saltwater conventional reels.
Users loved the smooth angling this reel offers. We also liked how its lightweight design made it easy for everyone to use.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, you will love how well the reel performs. All the features will pleasantly surprise you, and best of all it will work perfectly fine for years to come.
03. KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel (High Performance)
Good saltwater trolling reels are one of the best investments an angler can make. If you want a reel that works mechanically and helps you keep track of your line, this one is it. Give one of their two sizes a try and sit back and watch your catch!
We first noticed the line counter that is present at the top of the reel. This reel was designed for heavy-duty trolling and so it works perfectly well without any bumps or issues. It lets you keep your bait in the same place that is yielding lots of fish.
The reel uses 3 double shielded, stainless-steel ball bearings along with an instant anti-reverse bearing for quick and flawless retrieval. It’s main gears and worm shafts are made from precision-machined brass, while the line guide and pinion gear are made from stainless steel.
As far as deep-sea fishing reels go, the drag power makes the ReKon unique. It has a carbon disc drag that delivers 30 lbs. of fish stopping power. They also have a line clicker function that makes releasing the planer boards easy.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8.03 x 4.96 x 4.29 inches
- Weight: 0.62 kilograms
- Manufacturer: KastKing
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact.
- Reasonably affordable.
- Plenty of line capacity.
- The line counter is very accurate.
Cons:
- The smaller handle has a backlash.
Why We Recommend It:
If you are all about accurate casting, clean retrieves, and calculated fishing, line counter trolling reels like this one will be perfect for you. It has been made for rough and frequent use, so you can use it for species like trout and salmon.
It can catch fish from the depths without affecting the reel, thanks to the 320/250-yard line capacities.
We also found that both sizes work perfectly as walleye trolling reels. No matter what kind of fish you are after, this reel will deliver great results.
04. Penn Special Senator Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel (For Fishing Pros)
Any serious angler has used Penn equipment at some point. They work extremely well, last for ages, and are a favorite among fishing professionals. This can be seen once again in the Penn trolling reel, which is a durable and well-made reel for deep-sea fishing.
These are among the best trolling reels for sale, thanks to their high-tech performance and efficient design. They are available in 5 models, increasing in size and capabilities. It is made from Bakelite and reinforced stainless steel, balancing sturdiness and lightweight construction.
The spool is made from high-quality aluminum which has been anodized, protecting it from corrosive saltwater. As a result, you can use it in all conditions, making it among the best freshwater trolling reels as well.
The reels also have a star drag braking system that uses their HT-100 washers. There is a star adjustment knob on the outside and multi-discs inside, which helps the reel deliver a solid 19-35 pounds of maximum drag.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 7.87 x 5.91 inches
- Weight: 0.5 kilograms
- Manufacturer: Penn
Pros:
- The best bottom fishing reel.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Good value for money.
Cons:
- Not suitable for species that prefer a fast action jig.
Why We Recommend It:
The low gear ratio of this reel adds to the leverage you have when casting. It is also good for slow, steady retrieval. These features all make it great for bottom fishing, and it operates very smoothly in stormy conditions as well.
It lasts for ages and needs little maintenance, which is great if you want a sturdier reel. While it may seem a little pricier, this reel is worth every dollar spent.
05. Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B Line Fishing Reel (Budget Pick)
Want an amazing reel that won’t burn a hole through your wallet? Daiwa trolling reels fall right into this category. If you are into catching walleye, and looking for the best level wind reel, this is the one for you.
If you want to cast with extreme accuracy, the reel has a direct-drive counter that measures the depth of the line in feet. The one-piece composite frame is mainly made from aluminum, which makes it strong and durable.
Also, the machine cut brass gears have a ball bearing drive, making for a smooth retrieval even when dealing with large or aggressive fish. It also has Teflon-enforced drag washers that elevate the reel’s excellent performance.
This Daiwa reel can also catch monsters from deep waters like nobody’s business. Although the unit looks plain, it has amazing strength and can put up quite a fight.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 7 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 0.45 kilograms
- Manufacturer: Daiwa
Pros:
- Perfect casting and retrieval.
- Smooth and easy operation.
- Low maintenance unit.
- Long-lasting, sturdy build.
Cons:
- The line counter can stick sometimes.
Why We Recommend It:
People who enjoy trolling for walleye will definitely like this reel. The smooth drag and sturdiness of the unit make it a very versatile and reliable reel.
Its performance sets it apart from other similar reels and the affordable price makes it convenient for those on a budget. It combines a solid design, seamless operation, and affordability all in one package.
06. Okuma Cold Water Line-counter Reel (Long-Lasting Model)
This entry is further proof that anglers just can’t get enough of Okuma trolling reels. The reason? Reels like this one are made from the best quality materials and are built to last a lifetime.
Still not convinced?
The lightweight composite body is strong and has been tested for reliability. Moreover, the side plates and frame are resistant to corrosion, making it safe for deep-sea fishing. Also, the bearing is constructed from stainless steel, adding to the overall longevity.
Unlike a left-hand conventional reel, this one is only usable on the right-hand side, making it unsuitable for some people. Also, it uses a multi-disc carbonite drag system which gives it a smooth but significantly powerful drag.
Moreover, there is a ratcheting drag star, allowing you to use the reel with the exact drag settings you want. This feature makes it very useful when catching different sorts of fish.
The reel has a drop-down gearbox that has its own self-lubricating system which reduces friction when retrieving your catch.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 4 inches
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Manufacturer: Okuma
Pros:
- Lightweight, yet strong.
- Can handle larger fish without damage.
- Good value for money.
- Very sturdy and durable.
Cons:
- Some prefer a tighter drag.
Why We Recommend It:
This is one of the most reliable trolling reels you will find. It is pretty strong and holds up well catching aggressive species like catfish.
Best of all, it can be handled by beginners and still perform smoothly. It is strong and quite resistant to damage, so you will have a reel that works for a very long time without any problems.
07. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel (Powerful Drag)
Need a fancy-looking reel that packs a lot of power? We are smitten with how well this operates. Best of all, it comes in a range of sizes and models with options for left-handed trolling reels!
It is resistant to saltwater corrosion thanks to its lightweight graphite construction and protected components. It also has a line counter to measure your fishing line of feet. However, this can be a little tricky for people who are used to measuring in meters.
The internal gear is self-lubricating, as are the carbon fiber drag systems, and brass gears. Furthermore, the side plates are also protected from the saltwater, so you can easily use them without having them corrode.
It is also delivered pre-assembled and you receive a year warranty on it as well. All these little things make the reel ultra-convenient for regular use.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 20 x 15 x 15 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
- Manufacturer: Okuma
Pros:
- Quality construction.
- Resistant to corrosion.
- Self-lubricating gear system.
- Powerful and seamless operation.
Cons:
- The line counter can be sticky at times.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a great trolling reel with a powerful drag, quick drag adjustment, and an accurate counter. It is great for use as salmon trolling reels and is quite versatile. However, it does have a bit of a learning curve and is more suitable for experienced anglers.
We also loved the attractive and efficient design, which looks like it means business. The lightweight nature also makes it pretty easy to maneuver in stormy waters and when tackling feisty fish.
08. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel (Sturdy Construction)
If you’re new to the whole trolling thing, you might be worried about how your reel will hold when fishing from a moving vessel. Beginners also fret over this because there is fear about mishandling or breaking a delicate reel.
Not with this one! It can handle anything you throw at it!
It is also versatile and can be used in all kinds of waters. The body and side plates of the reel have been reinforced with anodized aluminum, protecting it from salt and grit. The shaft and gear are constructed from stainless steel, making it very durable.
It features a stout carbon fiber drag system, letting you drag up to 9kg of weight. As a result, it is one of the strongest reels available at the moment. It is also ergonomically designed which makes it easy and comfortable to use.
The reel has non-slip handles so that you will have a firm grip even when the reel gets soaked. It has been designed to reduce wrist fatigue; making it suitable for longer fishing trips. Also, the reel has double-shielded ball bearings for the smoothest retrieval.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 6.4 x 4.9 x 3.1 inches
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Manufacturer: KastKing
Pros:
- Operates smoothly.
- Excellent braking system.
- Sturdy and durable.
- Not too expensive.
Cons:
- Is rather heavy.
Why We Recommend It:
It is pretty evident that the KastKing reel is powerful, reliable, and long-lasting. Not only will your fishing trips feel easier and more convenient, but you can also actually sit back and have a good time with this.
Because it is so well-protected, there is very little need for maintenance as the saltwater won’t make a dent in it.
The best thing about this reel? It has all these amazing features at such an affordable price. Easy to use and with the smoothest performance, we couldn’t have dreamed up a better reel.
09. Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel (Smooth Operation)
This is yet another durable and affordable reel that performs exceptionally well. It has a line counter which allows you to keep your bait in the preferred fishing distance. At the same time, it is built to withstand heavy-duty use without sustaining damage.
It is a great option for people who use a single reel for their fishing trip. The body is made from aluminum, while the bearing is made from stainless steel, making it light, yet sturdy. There is also a total-carbonite drag system which can produce 40 lbs. of drag, making it a very strong reel.
This makes it a pretty tough reel, acting a lot like wire line trolling reels. It is good for catching heavy freshwater species and even large catfish. The overall build is very solid and protected from rust or corrosion.
Also, it is pretty sensitive, responding instantly to your every move. The reel has a three-year limited warranty so you can get the reel replaced in case of unmitigated damage.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8.35 x 5.43 x 4.8 inches
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Manufacturer: Sougayilang
Pros:
- Good starter reel for trolling.
- Very affordable price.
- Works well for larger or heavier fish.
- Lightweight and convenient.
Cons:
- Retrieving the line will need a little extra attention.
Why We Recommend It:
The Sougayilang is a splendid pick for any angler who wants to give trolling a try in just about any kind of water or fishing condition. It has a solid construction with an affordable price tag. Even if you’re an experienced angler, the Sougayilang reel will still work well as a back-up reel.
The reel works quickly and almost effortlessly, making it ideal for heavy catches. While it isn’t the fanciest reel, it is definitely reliable and worth trying.
10. Piscifun Salis X Trolling Reel (For Larger Fish)
Like battling huge monsters when you’re out on the water? This reel has the strength and durability for handling big game fish in an assortment of saltwater conditions. The attractive gold and black design also make it an attractive choice for your fishing arsenal!
These reels are strong and have quick retrieval power. It has washers made from premium carbon fiber that can deliver nearly 40lbs of drag power. Moreover, the crank handle is made of stainless steel which gives it lightweight durability.
It also has a convenient power knob, line winding supported by stable three bushings, and an engage-bait clicker. These exceptional features set the reel apart from many other generic ones. The reel comes in two models, making it the best 2 speed reel option.
Furthermore, the general design of the reel lends its optimal performance. It also features stainless-steel riveting which gives it lots of stability when tackling big fish.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8 x 5.4 x 4.6 inches
- Weight: 2.15 pounds
- Manufacturer: Piscifun
Pros:
- Smooth and easy line release.
- Offers high-speed trolling.
- Gives an instant response when the hook is active.
- Quality construction.
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a line counter.
Why We Recommend It:
The Piscifun is a quality saltwater level-wind that works as both a trolling and a baitcasting fishing reel. It is designed with efficiency and solid construction as the priority. It works very well and is convenient as it is braid ready which eliminates mono backing when using a spooling braided fishing line.
It also has a sleek and attractive appearance which makes it enjoyable to use. All in all, the reel performs well and is bound to become a favorite.
11. GOMEXUS Saltwater Trolling Reel (Luxury Option)
Looking for the best 2 speed reel that comes in an unforgettably eye-catching design? This particular model is difficult to miss. It also makes your overall fishing experience a lot more fun!
However, this reel is more than just appearances. It is constructed with a solid aluminum frame and has a great line capacity and powerful drag system for monster fish from the depths. This trolling reel also works well for serious offshore anglers and is especially great for catching giant tuna.
The reel uses the HT100 drag system for a smoother startup, removing any kind of hesitation or friction, even with extreme drag settings. The strength of the reel makes it very reliable to use in uncertain or stormy weather.
Moreover, the handle is pretty comfortable, which allows you to use the reel for a long time without getting blisters or sore wrists. The gears are well-cut, so you can retrieve your line smoothly and quickly.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 13.27 x 9.13 x 8.31 inches
- Weight: 7.92 pounds
- Manufacturer: GOMEXUS
Pros:
- The slow gear ratio gives it lasting endurance for large fish.
- Solid line capacity and drag power.
- A sturdy build makes it long-lasting and powerful.
- Great for tuna fishing.
Cons:
- It can be too heavy for beginners to use.
Why We Recommend It:
If you want something that can be put up with large and heavy fish without damage or breaking, this one is it. Gaudy appearance aside, it works a lot like high-quality reels and is perfect for heavy-duty use.
This reel performs extremely well, making it comparable to Shimano trolling reels in terms of quality. With three models to choose from, you will be spoiled for choice and your fishing trip will be fun and your catch will be full of huge sea monsters!
12. One Bass Fishing Reels Level Wind Trolling Reel (Bargain Pick)
Need a reel that works for trolling and is under a hundred dollars? This is a pretty underrated and solidly reliable reel.
It works well, the drag has a decent speed and retrieval is seamless. If you’re looking for the cheapest option that performs without a hitch, this one’s your best bet.
The smooth performance of the reel is its most noticeable feature. Also, it is a good quality reel in terms of construction for the price and performance.
Moreover, this reel has a die-cast aluminum frame and aluminum plate. The graphite side plates are also braced with aluminum.
Also, the reel features an aluminum spool, which has an impressive speed. There is a multi-disc carbonite drag system that operates flawlessly and has a medium power range. This makes it easy to retrieve your catch.
Furthermore, it has 14 stainless steel bearings and one reverse bearing that adds to the smooth functionality of the reel. It also has a good gear ratio with the right speed.
Anglers find it easy to manage because of its cast control knob and clicker button. The oversized handle also makes it comfortable to use.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 4.9 inches
- Weight: 1.56 pounds
- Manufacturer: One Bass
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Good speed and gear ratio.
- Very affordable.
- The casting system is easy to adjust and control.
Cons:
- Has plastic parts.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a good basic reel, especially for beginners and people looking for something really cheap. It is pretty sturdy and lasts a decent amount of time when used carefully.
However, what makes it so great is how easy it is to use. You can get the hang of trolling very quickly even if you don’t have much experience.
It catches medium-sized fish without any trouble. What we liked best about this reel was how it gives you absolute control when baiting or retriever.
13. Burning Shark Saltwater Trolling Reel (Convenient Choice)
This high-quality trolling real is a good choice as it is quietly powerful and works with efficiency and effectiveness. It is designed with low maintenance and sturdy construction as the priority. Using it is easy and hassle-free, which makes it good to have when trolling.
What makes this reel special? For starters, it has a double dog ratchet system which stops the handle from reversing when it is in use. The unit doesn’t make much noise and the line release also works well.
The conventional reel has a machined aluminum spool, with BakeLite side-plates and stainless-steel gears for a seamless and long-lasting performance. The reel seat is also smooth and the spherical handle makes it comfortable to grip for large periods of time.
Moreover, it has a lightweight structure that is resistant to corrosion, which makes it okay for use in saltwater trolling. If you have any trouble with the unit, you can always contact customer service for help.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8.46 x 5.43 x 4.8 inches
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Manufacturer: Burning Shark
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight.
- Great value for money.
- Feels comfortable to use.
Cons:
- Not very durable.
Why We Recommend It:
We found this reel a solid option, especially when catching things like groupers, salmon, and bass. The aluminum and stainless-steel structure makes it easy to handle as it is lightweight and requires simple maneuvering.
It works solidly and many anglers find it very comfortable to use. There won’t be any sprained wrists and sores even when tackling gigantic fish. The machined aluminum spool is also great for smooth and fast retrieval, and your lines won’t get tangled.
14. Sougayilang Level Wind Conventional Trolling Reel (Solid Performance)
This Sougayilang reel is a great option for a simple conventional trolling reel that is no-fuss and low maintenance. It is a great reel for those who are always chasing huge trophy fish.
The reel has a large line capacity, which makes it a good choice for trolling. Since it can handle a great deal of braided or monofilament line that is needed for targeting bigger species easily and more conveniently. This makes it a good choice and an effective tool for dealing with monster fish.
Also, the various components are constructed from high-quality materials like lightweight graphite and stainless steel. As a result, the unit is pretty well protected from the saltwater of the sea. Moreover, it uses carbon disc drag that gives you 28 lbs. of fish stopping power.
This reel will deliver the perfect fishing experience. The attractive design also makes it a good choice to gift to a fellow angler.
Major Features:
- Dimensions: 8.35 x 5.43 x 4.72 inches
- Weight: 0.69 kilograms
- Manufacturer: Sougayilang
Pros:
- Attractive design.
- Lightweight design.
- Good line capacity.
Cons:
- Not good for catching smaller fish.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a pretty sturdy reel that lasts quite a while when cared for. Although it is large, the unit is lightweight and works very well on the open water.
It is also great for catching bigger fish from a moving vessel. However, the large reel size makes it harder to handle, especially for younger or smaller anglers.
Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Trolling Reel
Since there are so many amazing reels out there, it can be difficult to find out which one will work the best. It can also be difficult to gauge which one operates properly.
However, we have you covered. These are the most important features when buying a trolling reel.
Build/Construction:
A good trolling reel will be constructed from materials that make it light, yet resistant to corrosion from seawater. As a rule of thumb, they are generally made from graphite, aluminum, and stainless steel. These reels are easy to handle and last for ages.
Our favorites include the OKUMA Coldwater Wireline High-Speed Trolling Reel, KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel, or Abu Garcia Black Low-Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel. You will also get lots of mileage out of something like a Shimano conventional reel.
Drag Power:
A strong, smooth drag is the key to a good fishing experience. The reel drag should be able to operate smoothly without friction or jerking which can let your catch slip away.
Multi-disc drags are known for providing smooth control when handling fish. Also, star drag adjustments are ultra-convenient for anglers.
We found that reels like Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, OKUMA Coldwater Wireline High-Speed Trolling Reel, and KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel are the best in terms of drag performance.
Weight:
A heavy reel can be awkward to handle. Instead, go for something like the Penn Special Senator Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel as they are nice and light. This makes them much easier to maneuver, especially when dealing with huge fish.
Price:
This can be the deciding factor for many people. Mid-range trolling reels are the go-to for many people, such as the KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel or the OKUMA Coldwater Wireline High-Speed Trolling Reel.
However, if you want something cheaper, you can always try out the Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B Line Fishing Reel or Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel as they are affordable without compromising the quality of the reel.
FAQ
Below you’ll find answers to questions we get asked the most about trolling reels.
01. How to Spool a Conventional Reel for Trolling?
This is the easiest way to spool your reel. The process requires a pair of thick gloves, a large bucket with two gallons of water in it, and the reel you want to spool.
- Firstly, if you have a loading mono, tie an arbor knot or something similar to your spool and snip the tag end, leaving about an inch.
- Then drop our spool in the bucket of water.
- Hold your gloved hand along your rod. Make sure your thumb and index finger are pinching the line tightly.
- Next, apply tension on the line as you reel with your other hand. Keep moving the hand applying pressure from side to side so that line lays down evenly.
02. How to Use a Trolling Reel?
To begin with, you just have to check the tension on the reel and see if it’s the right amount. Then, turn on the reel to drop the line into the water.
When the lure is in the water, start turning the reel and you will notice the “line guide” moving back and forth and the line gets laid on the reel smoothly without issue.
Make sure that the line isn’t slack at all. This will happen if you are “thumbing” the spool properly as there should be no slack when the lure enters the water.
03. Where Should I Use Trolling Reels?
Trolling can be done on any large expanse of water. You can go trolling in the ocean, on large lakes, and even rivers.
All that matters is that the water has to be pretty deep, and there have to be lots of fish in it. This problem can be solved with a fish finder.
04. Which Fish Can I Catch with a Trolling Reel?
When trolling in freshwater, you will encounter species like salmon, trout, bass, and walleye which are pretty common. When trolling in saltwater, you will be able to catch things like Mahi Mahi Tuna, Sailfish, Barracuda, and Marlin.
Trolling Reels in a Nutshell
Trolling may be the ultimate fishing technique. Not only is it incredibly cool and fun; the process can also be pretty addicting. There’s no better way to combine boating and fishing than trolling.
Best of all, you get to catch more fish! The first step, however, would be to get the best trolling available.
These reels are light and strong, can put up a fight against monsters, and last for ages. Use them and give trolling a shot–and we guarantee you’ll fall in love.
