6 best fishing reels for saltwaters

Fishing reels for saltwater fishing are specialized tools designed to withstand the harsh conditions and corrosive nature of saltwater environments.These reels are built to handle larger fish and heavier lines commonly encountered in saltwater fishing. Here are key features and aspects related to saltwater fishing reels:

  1. Corrosion Resistance: Saltwater is corrosive, so reels for saltwater fishing are made from materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or other corrosion-resistant alloys to prevent damage and maintain functionality over time.

  2. Sealed Components: Many saltwater fishing reels have sealed bearings and other critical components to keep saltwater out, preventing internal damage due to exposure to corrosive elements.

  3. Drag System: Saltwater reels usually have powerful drag systems to handle the strength and speed of saltwater species. The drag system is critical for taming larger fish and preventing the line from breaking under pressure.

  4. Line Capacity: Saltwater reels often have larger line capacities to accommodate heavier lines needed for catching bigger fish and to handle longer fights.

  5. Gear Ratio: The gear ratio of saltwater reels determines the speed at which the line is retrieved. Lower gear ratios provide more power, ideal for pulling in larger fish, while higher gear ratios retrieve line quickly, useful for certain fishing techniques.

  6. Types of Saltwater Reels:

    • Spinning Reels: Versatile and commonly used in saltwater fishing, spinning reels are easy to use and suitable for various fishing styles.
    • Baitcasting Reels: Provide more control and accuracy, making them suitable for casting heavier lures or baits in specific saltwater fishing situations.
    • Trolling Reels: Designed for trolling behind a moving boat, these reels are built to withstand the pressures of trolling and the weight of the fish being pursued.
    • Conventional/Overhead Reels: Known for their high line capacity and power, these reels are typically used in offshore or deep-sea fishing for larger game fish.
  7. Handle Design: Saltwater reels often have larger, ergonomic handles to provide a comfortable grip and increased cranking power when reeling in heavy fish.

  8. Anti-Reverse Mechanism: Most saltwater reels have an anti-reverse mechanism that prevents the handle from turning backward, providing better hook sets and preventing handle slippage.

In summary, saltwater fishing reels are designed to endure the challenges of saltwater environments by incorporating corrosion-resistant materials, sealed components, strong drag systems, ample line capacity, and various types catering to different fishing styles.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best fishing reels for saltwaters on the market
  

Diwa Spinning Fishing Reels Freshwater Saltwater Big-Game Fishing Surf Fishing 12+1 Stainless BB 70 LBS Max Drag Ultra Smooth Powerful Spool Durable Spinner Gear

Diwa

Based on 170 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tips:After you receive the fishing reel, please tighten the handle nut before turning the reel.

 

KCN8000  | Weight 20.81oz/590g | Max Drag 70LBS/31KG |Gear Ratio 4.6:1 | Mono Line Capacity (LB/Yds) 8/210, 10/155, 12/125| Line Capacity 0.20mm/390m, 0.24mm/270m, 0.26mm/230m

 

KCN10000| Weight 20.81oz/590g | Max Drag 70 LBS/31KG | Gear Ratio 4.6:1 | Mono Line Capacity (LB/Yds) 15/285, 18/245, 20/210 | Line Capacity 0.34mm/370m, 0.4mm/270m,0.50mm/190m

 

KCN12000| Weight 20.81oz/590g | Max Drag 70 LBS/31KG | Gear Ratio 4.6:1 | Mono Line Capacity (LB/Yds) 20/320, 22/285, 25/255 | Line Capacity 0.40mm/400m,0.48mm/280m,0.57mm/200m

 

  • Plus 12000 spare spools.
  • PURE POWER: You will love KCN spinning reel's amazing best-in-class up to 70 LBS / 31 KG of smooth, reliable triple disc aluminum alloy, oversized stainless steel main shaft, and stronger precision mesh manganese brass pinion gears for more fishing muscle.
  • KCN Intrusion Shield System: KCN spinning reels are sealed with a KCN Intrusion Shield System! KCN has a unique protection water resistant design for its spool, body, and rotor KCN Intrusion Shield System. It helps keep water and dirt out. A great feature to have if your reel takes an accidental dunk.
  • SUPER SMOOTH:You'll be blown away by the quiet, silky smooth retrieve of the KCN. Plus, with the unique Shark Fin Braid Ready aluminum spool, you no longer need to use backing line when spooling on braid fishing line. You'll benefit from more line capacity to go after monster fish.
  • AFFORDABLE INNOVATION - Although a KCN spinning reel has more features, including 12 + 1 high quality, saltwater rated double shielded stainless steel ball bearings, instant lock anti-reverse, stainless steel hardware, aluminum handle, and more line capacity than other brands, the best feature is its low, affordable price. It is the best all-around spinning reel for every angler. One Year Incredible Total Peace of Mind Warranty!

User questions & answers

Question: Hey i have the diwa 10000 reel sn lost the drsg knob, where can i get a replacemlent for it
Answer: Hello, please contact us through Amazon customer service, tell us the receiving address, we ship for free!
Question: Any advise I got a 11 feet pole and I will use this set up for Dam
Answer: I used mine on a 15 ft surf rod the handle is VERY weak for big fish fishing I'd get a better real
Question: which spool would be good for salt water 30 pound test line
Answer: Saltwater 50 lb my choice but the 30 lb works fine just a preference thing
Question: will the 10000 or 12000 spool fit on 8000 model
Answer: Yes!

Ecooda Heavy Duty Metal Spinning Jigging Fishing Reels Saltwater Waterproof Body Boat Trolling Fishing Reel HS12000/15000 Max Drag: 55lbs/66lbs

ECOODA

Based on 39 reviews Check latest price
  • Ecooda ECOODA NEW HS15000- High Strength Aluminium Alloy Body And Rotor,Patented Aluminium Spool Structure,O Ring Sealed Waterproof Body And Rotor Saltwater Protection.
  • One-Way Clutch Instant Anti-Reverse System,Carbon Fiber Friction System,Max Drag: 66Lbs.
  • Precisely Machined Brass Oscillation Gear,Stainless Steel Gear,Gear Shaft,Slider And Gear Lever,7+1 Precision Stainless Steel Ball Bearings+Roller Bearing,Gear Ratio: 4.1:1.
  • Titanium Casting Guide,Ceramics Line Roller, Waterproof Structure.Heavy Duty Aluminium Bail Wire,Screw On Machine Aluminum Power Handle,Left/Right Interchangeable,Each reel is equipped with a special reel package that protects the reel at any time.
  • 1-Year Warranty!!!We Will Provide You With 1-Year Warranty Service! If You Find Any Problems with The Products when You Use Them, Please Feel Free to Contact Us, We will Provide The Best After-Sales Service!

User questions & answers

Question: one-way clutch instant anti-reverse system,carbon fiber friction system,max drag 30kg/ 13.6lbs" ... shouldn't it be 30lbs/13.6kg
Answer: It is 3.6ft, and it doesn't come with hard case.
Question: can this reel be made right hand can I get instruction
Answer: It is a medium, be warned if you're looking for a spinning rod this may not be the eyes are about half the size of a normal spinning rod
Question: Has anyone used this reel in saltwater and how did it hold up
Answer: Hi! They contain both casting rod and spinning rod, you can view the style name to understand and choose the style you want.
Question: If this thing about 15 oz with a power handle hold at least 245 yards 20 lb braid I would have purchased it right now
Answer: It is worth mentioning that the intimate clear spigot mark at the insert section that can greatly facilitate you to to insert the section in order and let you easier assembling the 4 pieces spinning/csting rod.

KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel, Freshwater and Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel, Rigid Aluminum Frame 7+1 Double-Shielded Stainless-Steel BB, Over 30 lbs. Carbon Drag, CNC Aluminum Spool & Handle

KastKing

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • MOST POWERFUL TRANSFORMER IN FISHING – KastKing MegaTron transforms the industry with the roll out of another great freshwater and saltwater fishing reel. The MegaTron spinning reel brings you a unique, geometrical, bionic engineering design. A spinning reel of this rugged build and unique optics deserves a special place in your fishing tackle arsenal. Its precise geometric forms offer a distinct autobot look that set it apart from all others and helps reduce weight while maintaining strength.
  • RIGID ALUMINUM SKELETAL FRAME - The KastKing MegaTron spin fishing reel is built for enormous strength and endless durability. The MegaTron aerospace aluminum alloy skeletal design frame is more than a great look! It’s the basis for its strength to battle hard fighting fish in fresh and saltwater. With its matrix of leadership KastKing rolls out this series of affordable metal body reels and sends a shock wave through the industry. KastKing MegaTron transforms you into the angler you want to be.
  • PRO LEVEL QUALITY GEARS – MegaTron spinning reels provide maximum performance and strength for all tournament anglers looking for victory. The main drive gear is made of durable zinc alloy matched with a pinion gear machined from solid brass. Both deliver rigidity and smoothness needed in building reels ready to tackle tough conditions. MegaTron spinning reels feature a CNC machined T6061 aerospace aluminum alloy spool and exclusive design robot inspired aluminum handles.
  • MORE POWER – KastKing MegaTron spinning reels are waiting for you to handle the biggest fish. Every MegaTron fishing reel features an exceptionally smooth carbon fiber drag system that delivers over 30 lbs. of impressive run-stopping power. Making MegaTron a perfect big game spinning reel. The triple-disc carbon fiber drag delivers consistently strong and flawless drag without start-up hesitation that can result in snapped fishing lines and lost fish.
  • FLUID PERFORMANCE - You will be amazed at the dynamics and faultless mechanics of KastKing MegaTron spinning reels. Each reel features 7+1 MaxiDur double-shielded stainless-steel ball bearings. The instant anti-reverse provides for quick hooksets. Double-shielded stainless ball bearings mean the MegaTron will perform equally in saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing, they are like a fishing robots in disguise! Fish with peace of mind.

User questions & answers

Question: Can it go far
Answer: What exactly do you mean? How far one can cast is dependent on the rod, weight of lure, and skill of user. This is a very well built reel and well worth the price.
Question: Anyone know if the 3000 will seat in a lew’s tp1speed stick spin rod? a 5000 penn will not
Answer: No it will not
Question: Are the 4000,5000,6000 all the same measurements
Answer: Hi richard, As you move up the sizes from 4000-6000 the spools will increase in size and the bodies will be larger. You can refer o the picture carousel on the listing, there is a size comparison of all reels.
Question: can you use 10lb line on the 5000 series reel
Answer: The Kastking Megatron 5000 is reated at 50 to 65 Pounds of Braided Line. A 10 Pound Line Line would work just fine. However to Fill the spool it would take over 200 Yards of braided line.

Product features

Roll Out with the MegaTron Unique Design Rotor

When artistry and machinery come together the result is astounding. When biomechanics combine with outstanding components the result is magic. MegaTron brings the magic to your fishing battle along with a transformative way to go fishing.

MegaTron is More Than Meets the Eye

Transform the way you fish with KastKing MegaTron. Every precise attention to detail puts trophy fish spinning reel power in your hands from 2000 to 6000 size. Feel the robotic smooth power of MegaTron. Its beauty is beneath the surface!

Sure Grip EVA KastKing Logo Imprinted Knobs

A sure grip is your connection to the fish. MegaTron EVA grips gives you that and are durable, just like MegaTron itself. MegaTron grips are embossed with the KastKing logo and are easy to clean.

Robot Inspired CNC Machined Aluminum Handles

Transform cranking power from your hands to MegaTron’s powerful gears through its CNC precision machined, geometrical, bionic engineering design aluminum alloy handle.

Sougayilang Surf Fishing Reel Ultra Smooth Powerful Spinning Reels,10000/11000 /12000 Fishing Reel for for Saltwater Freshwater Surf Fishing

Sougayilang

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price
  • USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: :Sougayilang Reiapo graphite body enhanced stainless steel shaft, CNC aluminum spool, deliver a reliable reel for years of big game fishing. the rocker arm can be interchanged left and right, counterclockwise tightened, clockwise unscrewed, can be used according to their own habits, even for small details, we are obsessed with the user experience of every detail.
  • PROPULSION LINE MANGENMENT SYSTEM:The most obvious component of the Propulsion Line Management System is the new Propulsion spool lip design. Through tens of thousands of casting tests and computer simulations it has been determined that this new spool lip design provides longer casting distances than a standard spool lip design while preventing backlashes and wind knots from forming.
  • DURABLE:Provides improved gear durability. By supporting the pinion gear on both ends with bearings, the pinion gear maintains precise alignment with the drive gear. This means the gears will stay in the same position under the heaviest loads. The added benefit is that friction between the spool shaft and gear are eliminated. This will enhance the casting performance of the reel with lighter lures, and allow for longer casts.
  • INSTANT-DRAG: Allows a quick adjustment of the front drag knob to take the reel from your current drag setting to free spool in just half a turn.4.1:1 Gear Ratio is designed for fighting against monster catching, enable confidence to land the biggest saltwater fish out there.
  • WAEM HEART SERVICE:If any problem, please contact us firstly and our customer service will respond to you within 24 hours and process it as soon as possible.

User questions & answers

Question: Can you switch this reel from left hand to right hand
Answer: The one this one that I ordered did not come with the real but there are other products that do have a combo
Question: Cuantos spool trae
Answer: No, the case fits the rod pieces very well.
Question: How much does it drag or the max
Answer: I believe there is a one year warranty. Very nice travel rods.

Product features

fishing reel details:

  • Gear Ratio: 4.1:1 ,Ball Bearings: 13+1BB·
  • Size10000:
  • Line Capacity(LBS/YDS): 10/350 20/210
  • Reel Weight: 645g/22.8oz
  • Size:11000
  • Line Capacity(LBS/YDS): 15/360 25/260
  • Reel Weight: 635g/22.4oz
  • Size:12000
  • Line Capacity(LBS/YDS):15/400 25/290
  • Reel Weight: 630g/22.2oz

Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Reels with Left/Right Interchangeable Collapsible Wood Handle Powerful Metal Body 5.2:1/5.1:1 Gear Ratio Smooth 11BB for Inshore Boat Rock Freshwater Saltwater Fishing

Sougayilang

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Reels with Left/right Interchangeable Collapsible Wood Handle Powerful

Metal Body 5.2:1/5.1:1 Gear Ratio Smooth 11BB For Inshore Boat Rock Freshwater Saltwater Fishing



1.Newest design 11BB fishing reel 1000,2000,3000,4000,5000 ,6000 Series

(note:if you need big size reel ,please choose big size series )

2.Metal line spool very strong ,with high-tensile gear.

3.Instant anti-reverse

4.Power drive gear equipped for high strength

5.Thick coiled bail spring

6.S-curve oscillation system for very good line winding

7.Left/right Interchangeable Collapsible Wood Handle

8.Computer balanced rotor

9.High tensile strength plastic body

10.Casts furthest amoung reel types; Longer life of reel; Cast light weight lures and baits better

11.Additional uses include: Pier fishing; Offshore fishing; Shore fishing; Boat-mounting and so on



Product details:



Ball bearings:10+1



DK1000 weight:244g Gear ratio: 5.2:1

Line capacity (mm/m):0.18/220 0.2/180 0.25/120 LBS/YDS: 6/200 8/150 10/110

DK2000 weight:256g Gear ratio: 5.2:1

Line capacity (mm/m):0.18/360 0.2/300 0.25/190 LBS/YDS: 6/220 8/160 10/120

DK3000 weight:262g Gear ratio: 5.2:1

Line capacity (mm/m):0.2/340 0.25/220 0.3/150 LBS/YDS:8/220 10/160 12/120

DK4000 weight:271g Gear ratio: 5.2:1

Line capacity (mm/m):0.3/160 0.35/125 0.4/100 LBS/YDS:12/180 14/140 16/100



DK5000 weight: 377g Gear ratio: 5.1: 1

Line capacity (mm/m): 0.35/150 0.4/120 0.45/100 LBS/YDS:14/170 16/140 18/120

DK6000 weight: 396g Gear ratio: 5.1: 1

Line capacity (mm/m): 0.35/190 0.4/150 0.45/120 LBS/YDS 14/210 16/170 18/140



Package Included:

1 x Fishing Reel

  • The Fishing Reels Spinning Freshwater Saltwater with 5.2:1 Gear Ratio 11BB ,CNC machine cut ABS collapsible handle, Left/right Interchangeable.
  • Fully adjustable cast control with sound.S-curve oscillation system for very good line winding .Aluminum spool with high-tensile gear.
  • Excellent line lay oscillation system. Ultra-thin streamline designed body.
  • Suitable for Position: Ocean Boat Fishing, Ocean Rock Fshing, Ocean Beach Fishing, Lake, River, Reservoir Pond, Stream.
  • KINDLY NOTE:if you have any questions about the product and the delivery ,feel free contact us ,i will give you solved until Until you can be satisfied

User questions & answers

Question: Is this good for salmon fishing
Answer: i fish for trout and it's very good!
Question: How do I obtain a new handle. The one it came with fell off when casting
Answer: Go on line and order online
Question: is the support arm plastic or metal
Answer: hand it is wood metal ,reel body is ABS plastic, this makes Fishing reel overall comparatively light, and it is very important for fishing,And spool is metal, make the whole fishing reel can withstand the pulling force is bigger,Fishing reel stronger metal package edge reinforcement is also made the pulling force is bigger.but it is good for freshwater fishing ,if you want fish more then 60LB fish , it is not suitable .
Question: I have a Shakespeare Ugly Stik Catfish rod - 7 feet long, medium heavy model (15/30) lb line. What size reel will work best for my rod
Answer: I would go with the 6000. This is certainly not a finesse situation, even a 4000 is suited for bass fishing, you want the sturdiest reel you can get. i have caught 6 or 7 pound blue cats by accident with a 4000, and I know if you get to 20-30 pound fish you'll want more reel than that.

Product features

CNC Aluminum Spool

Aluminum spool with high-tensile gear and more fishing line capacity.

Ultra-thin Streamline Designed Body

Ultra-thin streamline designed body. Superior Drag System offers incredible stopping power.

Collapsible Handle

CNC machine cut ABS collapsible handle, Left/right Interchangeable .

Durable Drag Knob

More stronger, Durable and corrosion resistant

Carbon Drag System

Offers the ultimate in smooth drag to reduce fishing line break-offs

Premium Quality Inner Parts

Perfect mesh drive gear and precision machined pinion gear for fish fighting power.

Smooth & Durable

Corrosion resistant smooth ball bearings give it ultra-smooth performance.

PLUSINNO Spinning Reel, 9+1 BB Fishing Reel, Ultra Smooth Powerful, CNC Aluminum Spool for Saltwater Freshwater Fishing

PLUSINNO

Based on 478 reviews Check latest price
  • SUPER SMOOTH - 9 High Quality ball bearings and 1 anti-reverse bearing, a strong drag and braking system combine to give you a silky smooth, balanced operation for all-day fishing comfort and enjoyment.
  • POWERFUL - PLUSINNO fishing reel's Superior Drag System offers incredible stopping power - up to 19.8LBS. Hardened metal main shaft, high quality drive gear gives you the power you need to land that prize catch so you won’t have to say “it got away”.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & COMPACT - This PLUSINNO Fishing Reel is manufactured with an Ultra-light CNC aluminum spool and a rigid, graphite frame giving you Ultra high performance in a compact spinning reel. Lightweight yet durable, makes for a Great day of fishing for years to come.
  • GREAT VALUE - Braid line-ready spool with a rubberized middle band insert doesnc’t need monofilament line backing before filling the reel with braided line to avoid slippage. It’s an awesome gift for beginner and experienced anglers.
  • STYLISH DESIGN & APPEARANCE – The matte black body inset with gold layering and the new hollow outs designed fishing reel matched to a graphite frame makes our new PLUSINNO spinning reels lighter and more stylish while still retaining all of the overall strength of our previous generation reels.

User questions & answers

Question: Is the GE5000 a bigger reel than the others
Answer: the 5000 numbers are the largest of all of the different PLUSINNO series reels
Question: Can i mount this reel to a shimano solara 7' rod
Answer: Absolutely! It would be a perfect match!!! Enjoy
Question: Can it be used braided and monofilament liens
Answer: Yes
Question: Novice fisherman here
Answer: You will want to use a decent line anywhere from 6-10 lb test. Simply tie the line around the spool, some say the type of knot matters, I say if you are down to the knot on your spool, you have bigger problems than the type of knot. Make sure the bail is open before you tie the line on. Close the bail and keep gentle tension on the line. Reel at a comfortable speed until the line is about 1/8” from completely full. This reel goes well we a 6.5” or 7” medium action rod but you could go bigger or smaller with the rod depending on if you purchase the 2000 or 4000.

Product features

PLUSINNO Fishing Reel

PLUSINNO Fishing Spinning Reel is the perfect combination of performance and value, lighter, smoother, and stronger!

Anti-Twist Line Roller

Gives you less chance of line tangles and snarls

Stronger Machined Aluminum Spool

PLUSINNO spinning reel has a lighter and stronger machined aluminun spool.

Non-slip handle

The handle is made of non-slip and comfortable material, which can give you a perfect touch feeling.

Dimension

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