11 best ice fishing reel
An ice fishing reel is a specialized piece of fishing equipment designed specifically for use in ice fishing. Ice fishing is a popular winter sport that involves catching fish through holes cut into frozen bodies of water, such as lakes and ponds. Here's what you need to know about ice fishing reels:
Purpose and Functionality:
- Ice fishing reels are used to manage and control fishing lines while ice fishing. They serve the same fundamental purpose as open-water fishing reels but are adapted for the unique conditions of ice fishing.
Types of Ice Fishing Reels:
Spinning Reels: These are the most common type of ice fishing reels. They are easy to use, versatile, and suitable for a wide range of fish species. Spinning reels work well for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Inline Reels (Ice Reels): Inline ice fishing reels, also known as ice reels, have a straight-line design where the line is wound onto a spool without any rotating bail. They are known for their sensitivity and are often preferred for targeting finicky fish species like panfish.
Features of Ice Fishing Reels:
Cold-Weather Durability: Ice fishing reels are designed to withstand extremely cold temperatures. They often have components made from materials that resist freezing or have special coatings to prevent ice buildup.
Smooth Drag System: A smooth and adjustable drag system is essential for fighting and landing fish, especially in icy conditions. It allows the angler to control the amount of resistance when a fish is pulling on the line.
Lightweight and Compact: Ice fishing reels are typically smaller and more compact than traditional open-water reels, making them easier to handle in tight spaces inside ice fishing shelters or on frozen lakes.
Quick Retrieval: Some ice fishing reels are designed with a faster retrieval rate to quickly reel in the line when needed.
Line and Lure Compatibility:
- Ice fishing reels are suitable for use with lighter lines and lures commonly used in ice fishing. They are designed to handle the specific requirements of ice fishing techniques.
Ice Fishing Techniques:
- Ice fishing reels are used in conjunction with ice fishing rods to present bait or lures to fish beneath the ice.Common techniques include jigging, tip-up fishing, and deadsticking.
Maintenance:
- It's important to keep ice fishing reels clean and well-maintained, especially after use in freezing conditions. Lubricating the reel's moving parts and checking for ice buildup is essential to ensure smooth operation.
Safety Precautions:
- When ice fishing, it's crucial to ensure the ice is safe for fishing and that you have the necessary safety gear, including ice picks and a life jacket. Safety should always be a top priority when engaging in ice fishing activities.
In conclusion, ice fishing reels are specialized fishing tools designed for use in the cold and icy conditions of winter fishing. They come in various types and offer features tailored to the needs of ice anglers, helping them effectively catch fish through holes drilled in frozen bodies of water.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ice fishing reel on the marketProduct description
13 FISHING WICKED REGULAR/ LONG STEM HARDWATER ICE FISHING SPINNING REEL. Wicked ice spinning reel features an aluminum spool with a lightweight graphite body and rotor. The handle is also aluminum and is outfitted with a soft-touch knob for superior grip and comfort. KEY FEATURES: - 5 BB with Instant Anti-Reverse; - Aluminum Spool with Fat Bail Design; - Evolve Glove Friendly Stem Design; - Defrost Reel Lubricant.
- KEEP YOUR HANDS WARM - The 13 Fishing Wicked Long Stem Spinning Reel's long stem allows you to fish with gloves on and keep your hands warm without hitting them on the rotor.
- DEFROST REEL LUBRICANT - The reel is treated with Defrost Lubricant for consistent performance even in bone-chilling temperatures
- ALUMINUM SPOOL - Wicked ice spinning reel features an aluminum spool with a lightweight graphite body and rotor.
- ALUMINUM HANDLE WITH SOFT-TOUCH KNOB - The handle is also aluminum and is outfitted with a soft-touch knob for superior grip and comfort.
- 5 BB WITH INSTANT ANTI-REVERSE -- 5 stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth retrieves while nstant stop anti-reverse delivers dependable hooksets.
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this an ice fishing rod |
Answer: | It can be used ice or open water |
Question: | Does it come with a longer spool |
Answer: | No I dont think they do...best reel I've bought though |
Question: | Is there a left handed version |
Answer: | The reel can be switched for either hand |
Question: | how much 4# mono will the reel hold. is the reel lubricated for ice conditions |
Answer: | It's an ice reel.. 75-100 yards |
Product features
13 Fishing Philosophy
Fishing is a universal sport, connecting fisherman around the world. It’s a universal language, once a way we unite with our fellow anglers. Fishing is our passion; it is a part of our culture passed down from generation to generation. It connects our families with tall tales, it brings us around the dining room table.
It’s time we reestablish the sport as one where anglers can fully appreciate it. Let’s embrace socialization and cooperation between fishermen of all skill levels. It’s time to take fishing up a notch…or thirteen.
Fishing for those who truly appreciate this sport, offers great potential for expanding our cultural horizons. Let’s take it there. Let’s put fishing on the map as one of the world’s most enjoyable and indulgent pastimes. Let’s finally give fishing the center stage as an outdoor sport through the power of our fishing community.
Product description
Better than ever Abu Garcia® engineering with MAXimum performance in the Abu Garcia Max Ice spinning reels, featuring a four-bearing system, lightweight graphite body and rotor, and one-touch folding handle for convenient storage.
- 3 ball bearings + 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation
- Lightweight graphite body and rotor
- Machined aluminum spool provides strength without adding excess weight
- Everlast bail system for improved durability
- Slow Oscillation provides even line lay with all types of line
User questions & answers
Question: | Is a size 10 reel larger or smaller than a |
Answer: | The larger the number the bigger the reel. A size 30 reel is smaller than a size 35 etc. |
- FreeFall Performance Window
- Graphite Frame Construction
- Drop Speed Control
- Instant Stop Anti-Reverse
- 3+ 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
User questions & answers
Question: | What’s the line capacity for 10 pound test |
Answer: | 13 Fishing doesn't publish 10lb line capacity specifically, but it is rated for 80yds / 8lb, 100yds / 6lb, so I would estimate it would be in the ballpark of 60yds of 10lb line. |
- GREAT VALUE - Loaded with features yet low on price. KastKing Summer/Centron offers the best value...at any level. The KastKing Summer Fishing Reel turns any angler into a PRO.
- LIGHTWEIGHT - narrow graphite frame design and computer balancing system combine high performance in a compact Spinning Reel. KastKing Summer/Centron makes an awesome gift for anybody who loves fishing, the 500 size reels match perfectly ice rods and make a perfect ice combo.
- HIGH POWERED - KastKing Summer/Centron spinning reel's Superior Drag System offers incredible stopping power up to 17.5LBs. It has a hardened metal main shaft, perfect mesh drive gear and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.
- SMOOTH PERFORMANCE - Summer/Centron's nine quality ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing give it ultra-smooth performance.
- DURABLE/ATTRACTIVE FINISH - Summer/Centron's attractive, brilliant finish and its high strength two color anodized aluminum spool, with a power launch lip for longer casts and holds more line than competitor's models that sell for much more.
User questions & answers
Question: | Will the summer 3000 work with the shakespeare ugly stick gx2? or the ugly stick elite |
Answer: | Yes. I use the CastKing Summer 3000 with an Ugly Stick GX2. |
Question: | I got the 3000. Would that be allright for my 7 ft med action rod |
Answer: | The 3000, size wise is on par with most 2500 series reels(Shimano)! A 6ft to 7ft Rod would not be an issue for this reel. Just consider what rod would fit your fishing requirements. |
Question: | Does this bring an extra spool |
Answer: | This reel does not include and extra spool. |
Question: | Does this reel work for saltwater |
Answer: | I've use my 5000 in Saltwater. To be honest last year I even submerged it while surf fishing with it, freshwater rinse after each use and stored for the winter. I figured being a very inexpensive reel, I'll just beat on it. Serviced it 2 weeks ago for schoolie fishing, opened it up, 1 tiny tiny spec of rust, on the spool shaft besides. Still had grease in it, no salt, or sand. A quick wipe down, oiled and greased and it's back in service. So I'd say for the money it will certainly work salt applications, had no problem taking down some 20lbs blues. |
Product description
Built solid with only the highest performance angler standards in mind, 13 Fishing continues to break the mold with their new ideas and fresh designs. Solid fiberglass blank. Stainless steel guides with polished inserts. Evolve cushioned reel seat
- Solid fiberglass blank
- Stainless steel guides with Polished inserts
- Evolve cushioned reel seat
- Integrated Fender
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this reel free fall |
Answer: | Yes. A button engages free spool. |
Question: | Where can you purchase additional spools |
Answer: | I don't know for sure, but I assume from 13. |
Question: | what is the gear ratio |
Answer: | It is in the description "2.7:1" meaning or each revolution of the handle the spool rotates 2.7 times. |
Question: | Will it drop 4mm ice jigs down or do you still have to help it down by hand |
Answer: | I use mainly 3mm jigs. Tungsten of coarse. 4's drop ok. If you allow it to drop slowly into a school it normally gets eaten on the way down |
- Super smooth drag system and instant anti-reverse
- Free spool release button
- Comfortable nonslip cork grip with a epoxy
- 2.7:1 Gear Ratio, 4 +1 Ball Bearings, One-way Clutch
- CNC machined aluminum spool with large line capacity
User questions & answers
Question: | Is there a free spool adjustment for the speed of free fall? The knob I think is supposed to do it you can’t turn by hand and have to use a pliers and |
Answer: | No specially when there is overfilled with food specifically with something watery |
Question: | Does it have a loud click when reeling |
Answer: | Gas stove yes electric haven't trait yet |
Question: | The answers below are confusing. So I want the reel to hang down but have the crank on the left side. Which one |
Answer: | I've only used it on a gas range. |
Question: | so it hangs down like a spinning reel so the handle would be on the left side for a right hand reel. Is this correct |
Answer: | No its kind of like a little Dome. The whole thing is 16" the edges are about 3" wide. It is great for deep frying. |
Product features
Fiblink Inline Ice Fishing Reel Right/Left Handed Fishing Raft Wheel Ice Reels
- At Fiblink Fishing Tackle we deliver more than just fishing gears. We deliver the motivation to hit the water, the energy to keep focus and the excitement that immits every cast with high expectations. Each of our products is designed and continuously improved through the customer's needs and market trends.
- We do our best to continually improve our products to meet your individual fishing equipment needs. We are proud to provide the 1 year Service!
CNC Aluminum Spool
CNC machined aluminum spool with large line capacity. It can effectively manage the uniform laying of the line.
CNC Aluminum Star Drag
CNC aluminum drag system for extremely smooth and consistent drag control.
Cork & EVA Ergonomic Handle
Comfortable nonslip cork grip with a epoxy; Nonslip EVA grip.
One-piece Solid Foot
One-piece solid Reel Foot increases the strength and tension of the reel, which could help you put more big fish easily on the ice!
Product description
The new 2019 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Ghost series of inline ice fishing reels! With improved slide drag system, and new performance line window. Graphite frame construction, drop speed control, instant stop anti-reverse, tangle free spool cap, 2.5:1 Gear Ratio.
- FreeFall Performance Window
- Graphite Frame Construction
- Drop Speed Control
- Instant Stop Anti-Reverse
- 3+ 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the max line weight will it take |
Answer: | I use suffix 832 ice braid 20 as well as 30 lb. test. Tipped with a 3 foot leader of 17# Pline fluorocarbon. You can always change the leader. Similar to fly fishing. Caught many and plenty of trout here in Colorado. I know some may argue it’s too much, I like knowing when I have a 10# fish I have plenty of line strength. You eventually have to go vertical to get your fish out of a hole. |
Question: | Based on the weight of the line what is the yardage capacity it will hold |
Answer: | Line Capacity (lb/yds): 8/80 6/100 4/125 3/175 2/350 |
Question: | How are these reels different from the black betty hard water model |
Answer: | Spool components and drag system vary between the BlackBetty FreeFall, and the BlackBetty FreeFall Ghost. The Original FreeFall is the performance model with higher drop control. |
Question: | i hold the rod with my left hand and reel with the right hand so what reel would i need thanks for the help |
Answer: | You want right hand retreive |
Product description
Improve presentation and drop bait to the strike zone quickly with the Pflueger® Trion® Inline Ice Reel. In lightweight composite construction, this reel also features an ultra responsive, Auto-Stop free spool button for improved presentation. The 6+1 bearing system contributes to smooth performance on the ice, while the spool fender and extended reel stem help to manage the line for less line tangles both on and off the ice.
- 6+1 bearing system
- 5.3:1 gear ratio
- Composite frame
- Fender completely covers spool side
- Extended reel stem
Product description
Looking for a product that will perform day in and day out, but not break the bank. Look no further than this Pflueger reel, offering one of the best quality products on the market at a value price. "The smart choice".
- 5 bearing system: Corrosion resistant stainless steel ball bearings
- Graphite body and rotor: Lightweight graphite reel construction
- Aluminum bail: Thick aluminum bail wire design, rigid to prevent mist shaping
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this reel have anti-reverse on it? Also how is the drag |
Answer: | I am not sure about the numbers. I went with the heat pump feature on my unit. Plus my RV repair guy told me to get this model because the brand new one to replace this one had a high fail rate. This one is hard to find. |
Question: | what is the line capacity? im going to use this for walleye |
Answer: | For a light rod the line is 2-6 pound test. For the medium rod it is 8-20 pound test line. |
Product description
This Eagle Claw In Line Ice Reel has a nylon body and spool with a smooth Teflon drag. Also, a spool tension adjustment and a free spool release button. The design of this reel reduces line twist and inches of line retrieves 15.75 per crank of the handle.
- Nylon body and spool
- Smooth Teflon drag
- Spool tension adjustment
- Free spool release button
- Star drag and line clicker
- 1 per retail
- Smooth Teflon drag
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it have anti reverse |
Answer: | Yes. Adjustable drag and on-off drag clicker. |
Question: | What is the line capacity of this reel? Thank you |
Answer: | It's listed as 190 yards of 4 lbs test line. I put heavier line on and there was more than enough for fishing large pike. |
Question: | can it be used for left hand retrive |
Answer: | It is a left hand retrieve, meaning you wind with the left hand. If needed you can switch it to right handed. Tight Lines. Darrin |
Question: | Can I get the alluminum spool separate |
Answer: | I haven't seen just the spool separate. If that's important to you I'd go with the red version which is a bit more expensive but comes with that spool. Brian W. |
Product description
Eagle Claw In Line Ice Reel (Black) Nylon Body/Spool, 4+1 Ball bearings, 2:6:1, 4/45, 2/110, 1/270. Aluminum handle.
- 1 per retail
- Smooth Teflon drag
- Spool Tension adjustment Free spool release button
- Line retrieve in/crank - 1575 Inch Reduced line twist
- All EAGLE CLAW LAZER SHARP TROKAR HOOKS are Made in America
User questions & answers
Question: | In which country was this made |
Answer: | They are made in the good 'ol US of A !!! |
Question: | How do you keep the line on even on the eagle claw inline ice fishing reel when the reel is under the rod |
Answer: | I have 2 of these and must say they are great reels. I use my pinky to move the line back and forth when reeling in. Been doing it so long that its automatic and I don't even think about it. Very easy to get used to |
Question: | Do you think you could cast with this reel? I am thinking of using it for small streams |
Answer: | No I would not suggest trying to cast with this particular reel. I use it for ice fishing and it is an awesome ice reel but there isn't any type of braking system on this reel so you would have nothing but back lashes. The retrieve rate also isn't suited for casting this reel. I would suggest some type of under-spin reel. |
Question: | Does left hand reel have the handle on the left? I know silly question just need to be sure |
Answer: | Yes, I bought the ECILIRBL. I hold the rod in my right hand and reel with the left. The reel can be converted to either hand. I think there is a youtube video on the subject. |
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