12 best sea fishing reels

Sea fishing reels are essential tools for anglers when it comes to saltwater fishing. These specialized reels are designed to withstand the harsh conditions and the power of large oceanic game fish. Here are some key features and information about sea fishing reels:

  1. Types of Sea Fishing Reels:

    • Spinning Reels: Spinning reels are popular for their versatility. They are easy to use and can handle a wide range of fish species. They are particularly useful for casting lures and bait.

    • Baitcasting Reels: Baitcasting reels are preferred by experienced anglers. They offer more control and power, making them suitable for targeting larger species in the open sea.

    • Trolling Reels: Trolling reels are designed for trolling, a technique that involves dragging bait or lures behind a moving boat. These reels have strong drags and line capacities.

    • Big Game Reels: Big game reels are built for tackling massive oceanic predators like marlin, tuna, and sharks. They are robust, often featuring a two-speed mechanism to handle these powerful fish.

  2. Materials and Durability: Sea fishing reels are typically constructed using corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and composite materials. This is crucial because saltwater is highly corrosive and can quickly damage regular reels.

  3. Drag System: The drag system is a critical component of a sea fishing reel. It allows you to apply resistance to the line when a fish is fighting, preventing it from snapping. High-quality reels have a smooth and strong drag system that can be finely adjusted.

  4. Line Capacity: Sea fishing often involves long battles with powerful fish, so reels need to have sufficient line capacity to handle this. The line capacity is measured in yards or meters and should be suitable for your target species.

  5. Gear Ratio: The gear ratio of a fishing reel determines how fast the line is retrieved. A higher gear ratio means faster retrieval, which can be important when reeling in fast-swimming fish.

  6. Handle Design: The handle design should be comfortable and ergonomic, especially for extended battles with large fish.

  7. Anti-Reverse Feature: Many sea fishing reels have an anti-reverse feature that prevents the handle from turning backward when a fish is pulling the line out. This provides better control during the fight.

  8. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep sea fishing reels in top condition. This includes rinsing them with freshwater after use to remove salt and periodically greasing or oiling the moving parts.

  9. Price Range: Sea fishing reels can vary widely in price, depending on their quality and features.High-end models can be quite expensive but are worth the investment for serious anglers.

When choosing a sea fishing reel, it's important to consider the type of fishing you'll be doing, the species you're targeting, and your personal preferences. A high-quality sea fishing reel can make a significant difference in your saltwater angling experience.

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

PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel

PENN Fishing

Based on 559 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The 9, 209, and 309 level wind reels are legendary for their versatile performance. Anglers worldwide have found their reliability and incredible toughness is at home anywhere - fresh or saltwater, casting or trolling. The popularity of these reels is unwavering, even though the design and look date back to the early 1940's with a simplistic, functional, and durable reel that is extremely capable.

  • Level wind fishing reel excels across a variety of freshwater and saltwater situations
  • Delivers legendary toughness and reliability in a proven design
  • Machined aluminum spool, bakelight sideplates, and stainless steel gears for long-lasting durability
  • HT-100 carbon fiber drag system provides powerful drag without sacrificing smoothness
  • Counter-balanced handle and oversized paddle knobs offer fluid, comfortable cranking

User questions & answers

Question: any backlash issues with this reel
Answer: No ,I have not had backlash issues however, I don't cast in the ocean, I typical drop to bottom and then crank up to 200 feet and wait for hits if no bites on bottom. I fish Pacific Ocean, Southern California.
Question: Does this reel have the line out clicker
Answer: Yes it does have a nice loud clicker
Question: what is a good rod for this reel
Answer: A medium/heavy rod designed for 30 to 50 pound line weight.
Question: Could this reel handle sharks
Answer: With a lot of skill, maybe a 50 - 100 pound shark.

KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Level Wind Trolling/Jigging Fishing Reel, Round Conventional Baitcasting Reel, Graphite Body, Durable Stainless-Steel & Brass Gears, Large Line Capacity, Powerful Carbon Disc Drag

KastKing

Based on 468 reviews Check latest price
  • LINE COUNTER TROLLING REEL – New from KastKing is the ReKon Line Counter Trolling Reel. Available in 2 sizes, ReKon conventional reels will be perfect for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Kokanee, Walleye, Lake Trout, saltwater species, and so much more. Both feature an exceptional, accurate mechanical line counter so that you can consistently keep your bait in the exact zone that is producing fish over and over.
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPONENTS – The KastKing ReKon baitcasting reels are designed for tough trolling conditions and uses the best components. For smooth and trouble-free operation KastKing uses 3 double shielded, stainless-steel ball bearings in high stress points plus the Instant anti-reverse bearing. KastKing ReKon main gears and worm shafts are made of precision machined brass. Its pinion gear and line guide shaft are high quality stainless-steel.
  • AMAZING DRAG POWER & FEATURES – The ReKon Line Counter round casting reels use a smooth, carbon disc drag that delivers 30 lbs of fish stopping power (25lb for size 10). Both size reels have a line clicker function that makes releasing planer boards simple and easy. You can use that feature as a strike detection system while trolling. Gear ratio is 5.1:1 on the size 10 and 5.3:1 on the size 20.
  • GREAT LINE CAPACITY – KastKing kept these fishing reels as compact as possible while still providing tons of line capacity to anglers using leadcore, heavy braid, or strong monofilament fishing line. The size 10 and size 20 ReKon cast reel will hold over 250 yards of 20 lb. mono or about 10 colors of Micro Leadcore line and over 320 yards of 25 lb. mono or equivalent braided line respectively.
  • TWO HANDLE OPTIONS – KastKing designed the handles to be different on the two models for a reason. The size 10 ReKon is mostly for Kokanee, Walleye and Trout so KastKing included a comfortable, double paddle handle with EVA grips. The larger size 20 reel has a single Power Handle with a comfortable round knob that gives more leverage for larger fish and longer retrieves for Salmon, Steelhead, Lake Trout, Striped Bass, or other uses such as a catfish reel that require more fishing line.

Daiwa TANACOM1000 Dendoh Fishing Reel, 30-40 lb, Black

Daiwa

Based on 142 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The versatile TANACOM1000 makes deep drop fishing easier for anyone. Fight 'em on the handle and let the power assist do the drudgery of retrieving heavy sinkers from the depths when it's time to check your bait. Matches perfectly with saltiga-g dendoh style deep drop rods. And kite rods.

  • New LCD display reads out in English for easier programming
  • Oversize line guide aperture to clear large knots and kite swivels
  • Automatic Stop and jigging features
  • Variable-speed power lever Control. Manual winding option
  • Line counter and depth memory.12 Volt system (12-16.8 V

User questions & answers

Question: What is the nema configuration of the plug on the end of the cord
Answer: NEMA Configuration (The National Electrical Manufacturers Association) assigns designations to the various plug connectors and receptacle combinations, this to prevent the wrong combinations of electrical systems from being plugged together which can make a potential dangerous condition. So it is a safety matter in lay terms.
Question: Can anyone confirm that this is the 1000 size model
Answer: Yes. This is a 1000 size.
Question: are the LCD prompts in English
Answer: yes
Question: Will this reel handle pacific halibut ranging 20 - 150 lbs
Answer: The largest I've ever caught was about 53 lbs with no problems.

Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon

Burning Shark

Based on 360 reviews Check latest price
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE:High Quality Deep Sea Fishing Reel,Double Dog Ratchet System Prevents Handle From Reversing.
  • DETAIED PARTS:Conventional Reel,Machined Aluminum Spool, Bakelight Sideplates, Stainless Steel Gears for Long-lasting Durability,Smooth Fishing Reel Seat,Spherical Handle.
  • USING: Noise Is Small,The Line Release Lever Works Good,Comfortable Cranking.Lightweight Corrosion Resistant Frame.
  • WEIGHT: Approx. 23 oz / 640g,Max. Drag: 40 lb,Gear Ratio: 4.1:1.
  • WARM PROMPT:If You Have Any Problems About Our Products,Please Contack Our Customer Service Team,We Will Solve Your Problems ASAP.

User questions & answers

Question: How can I contact the customer service dept. to order parts
Answer: That I don’t know
Question: How many feet of line does it fit in and can we use braiding lines such as Fireline
Answer: I bought 1,097 yard spool of 65 lb Kastking and spooled 3 of my reels with it. I used all of the line, and the third reel had a little less than the other two. I would say it would probably hold 400 yards or maybe a little more
Question: Would this reel be good for bottem fishing for snapper,grouper
Answer: Actually, I would have to say no. I have experienced some trouble with the drag release lately. I have only used it for this season thus far.
Question: Mine didn’t come with a level line guide. Is that normal
Answer: I don't think so. My reel has one.

TRUEGRIT 12BB 1000-7000 Bearing Fishing Reel Super sea Fishing Reel high Speed 5.2:1 Metal Rotating Fishing Reel Fishing Tool

TRUEGRIT

Product description

Type: bait casting fishing reel

Gear ratio: 5.2:1 / 5.1:1

Fishing method: spinning

Fishing reel type: pre-assembled spinning wheel

Ball bearing: 12BB

1000 2000 series are small reels

3000 4000 5000 series are intermediate reels

6000 7000 series are big reels

feature:

12 ball bearings and one roller bearing, stable performance.

Inclined CNC aluminum spools increase production capacity. The left and right interchangeable handles have comfortable knobs.

The thicker metal ring can be cast smoothly to prevent the wire from being entangled.

High-strength plastic main frame, sturdy and durable.

Instant anti-reverse braking system. Powerful fishing tackle.

packing list:

1 x fishing reel

  • 12 ball bearings and one roller bearing, stable performance.
  • Inclined CNC aluminum spools increase production capacity. The left and right interchangeable handles have comfortable knobs.
  • The thicker metal ring can be cast smoothly to prevent the wire from being entangled.
  • High-strength plastic main frame, sturdy and durable.
  • Instant anti-reverse braking system. Powerful fishing tackle.

Sougayilang Trolling Reel Level Wind Conventional Reel Graphite Body Fishing Reel, Durable Stainless-Steel, Large Line Capacity

Sougayilang

Based on 141 reviews Check latest price
  • EXCELLENT COMPONENTS -- The VICTOR S uses the best components, Its pinion gear and line guide shaft are high quality stainless-steel. Dual Anti-reverse System and Full Carbonite Drag System providing Extreme Durability and Long-term Alignment of Gears and Shafts, and the super durable light weight graphite corrosion-resistant Frame & Side-plates.
  • POWERFUL DRAG -- The round casting reels use a smooth, carbon disc drag that delivers 28 lbs of fish stopping power. The Round Conventional Baitcasting Reel will be perfect for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Kokanee, Walleye, Lake Trout, Striped Bass, saltwater or freshwater species and so much.
  • SPECIFIC PARAMETERS -- 3+1 stainless-steel ball bearings, the gear ratio is 3.8:1. The aluminum handle arm has stronger strength, the great line capacity(mm/M): 0.45-320 0.50-260, LBS/YDS: 20-420, 25-310
  • HIGH APPEARANCE -- The new arrival of Sougayilang is VICTOR S which is designed to suit both the saltwater and freshwater fishing ground. It can provide you the most perfect experience with its matte black and dark red performance. A wonderful gift for your friends, husband, father, boy friend.
  • 3 YEARS SUPPORT -- We give 100% heart to our customers, so whatever the problem you have, as long as you ask for help about our products, Sougayilang will help you solve it within 24 hours!

Product features

WEAR RESISTANT LINE GUIDE

Titanium-plated magnetic ring reducing outlet resistance. Excellent wear-resistance and heat dissipation performance, more smooth to pay off and take up the line. Longer throwing distance, reduce the probability of backlash.

EASY CONTROL STAR DRAG

Star drag can achieve speed and power balance, and it can calmly deal with big fish. It is smoother which general operation lever does not have, turn easily and adjust simple.

STABLE REEL SEAT

Aviation aluminum alloy material, precision CNC technology, lightweight spool, the inertia of the spool in casting greatly improve the distance and feeling.

Okuma Classic CLX Right handedlevelwind Star Drag reels

OKUMA

Based on 329 reviews Check latest price
  • Lightweight Corrosion Resistant Frame And Side Plates
  • Corrosions Resistant Graphite Spools
  • Stainless Steel Reel Foot
  • Aluminum Power Handle

User questions & answers

Question: does this reel come left handed
Answer: The Classic pro reel should work fine. If you are looking for carbon drags and high density gears, i would suggest checking out the Convector or Coldwater reels.
Question: would it be a good reel to take the Kenai
Answer: Depends on who is selling it everybody has a side rant price
Question: Howmuch is okuma fishing reel cn30l
Answer: Yes I snag 70-80 lb spoonbill with these reels they will definitely handle a 100lb catfish hooked in the mouth
Question: Can i catch 100plus lbs catfish with this reel
Answer: Mine has two loops that snap and velcro. holds rig in place from sliding up.

PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel

Pure Fishing

Based on 608 reviews Check latest price
  • lightweight graphite frame and sideplates
  • auto-engaging gears
  • marine-grade bronze alloy main gear
  • machine cut brass pinion gear
  • ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers
  • Sport type: Fishing
  • Included components: Reel

User questions & answers

Question: Size of reel
Answer: It works great in freshwater, I have 20 lbs test on it it works good in salt water to
Question: can u use for casting
Answer: Yes
Question: Is it a left hand or a right hand
Answer: Tes
Question: Is this right handed
Answer: e use it all the time and no problem

Burning Shark Fishing Reels- 12+1 BB, Light and Smooth Spinning Reels, Powerful Carbon Fiber Drag, Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing

Burning Shark

Based on 609 reviews Check latest price
  • FISHING EQUIPMENT--12+1 Stainless steel ball bearings, 5.1:1 Gear Ratio Spinning Fishing Reels. It will be the fishing equipment you need most.
  • SCOPE OF APPLICATION--Spinning Reel can be used in Saltwater Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Boat Fishing,Rock Fishing, Carp Fishing, Bass Fishing, Surf Fishing, Lake Fishing, River Fishing, Travel Fishing...High density glass fiber and Composite material make it has an excellent anti-corrosion.
  • EASY CARRYING--Casting Spinning Fishing Reels has a collapsible arm,the reel length 5.6 inch, you can put it in any packet if you will go a trip for outdoor fishing.
  • AWESOME GIFT--Burning Shark Spinning Fishing Reel is suitable for anglers of any level. You can make this Fishing Reel an awesome gift for anybody who loves Hunting & Fishing.
  • WARM TIPS--IF you have any problems about fishing reel spinning, you can contact us firstly and we will solve your problems as soon as we can.

User questions & answers

Question: What weight spider line should I get for trout and bass fishing
Answer: 4lb
Question: Are the 6000 and 7000 available and where and howmuch
Answer: The colors party but the performance is not
Question: Is burning shark made by sougaylang
Answer: Yes
Question: What pound of line can you put on it
Answer: 10lbs or less it says you can do 12 but I put 10lbs and never had a problem yet

Dr.Fish Saltwater 10000/12000 Spinning Reel for Surf Fishing, 13+1 BBS, 48LB Max Drag, Ultra High Capacity, Heavy Duty Long Casting Offshore Big Game Fishing Reel

Dr.Fish

Based on 344 reviews Check latest price
  • A BIG gun for the BIG game. A special weapon designed for surf fishing. High density, corrosion resistant reel body is ready for repeat fights agianst the fiercest monster under the sea.
  • BIG & STRONG! Unprecedented 48LB max drag(12000 model) will put you in the winning position when a big fish bites. 3.9:1 Rock-steady gear ratio provides more torque and gives you advantage when a big fight comes.
  • 13+1 Rust-resistant ball bearings offer smooth action in both casting and retrieving. Side plate and rotor are sealed and waterproof so you can keep enjoying this butterly smooth performance after many trips.
  • HUGE CNC Aluminum spool allows you to easily put more and heavier lines on your reel for bigger fights, and help you cast longer and faster. Powerful Aluminum handle will help you dominant every battle.
  • Model: LS-12000 | Gear Ratio: 3.9:1 | Ball Bearing: 13+1BB | Drag: Front | Reel Weight Approx.: 26.03oz / 26.87oz | Spool: Aluminlum spool | Line Capacity (Lbs/Yds): 17/460,20/360,30/260. See image for dimensions before ordering. This 12000 is for big game fishing.

User questions & answers

Question: What size would you go with 10ft rod surf fishing
Answer: I would use a 12/14ft rod. It gives you a longer cast this reel lets it go out and a smooth retrive.
Question: how much drag offers the reel
Answer: 18kg/40Lb.
Question: how much 50lb braid will this take ..using for charter boat fishing
Answer: For size 10000 it will hold about 400 yards, for 12000 that will be 460 yards.
Question: me gustria saber capasida de nilon que lleva por. libra
Answer: El carrete tiene bobina grande y te especifica con hilo monofilamento cuantas yardas le caben dependiendo el diámetro de la linea . El hilo nylon trenzado es más delgado y más fuerte. Yo hice una prueba y le cupo aproximadamente 450 yardas de nylon 40 lbs. Es un excelente carrete, puedes hacer tiros muy largos y tiene un funcionamiento muy suave . Lo recomiendo muy bueno y vale la pena la compra.

Penn Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel

Pure Fishing

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • Durable, high range spinning reel ideal for conquering big saltwater game fish
  • Full metal body, sideplate, and rotor and heavy duty aluminum bail wire offer exceptional durability
  • HT 100 carbon fiber drag system provides powerful drag without sacrificing smoothness
  • Fluid cranking with 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings and instant anti reverse bearing
  • Superline spool requires no backing, is braid ready, and has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity

User questions & answers

Question: What size is better for 30 pound braided line
Answer: 30 pound is way too big for a 2500. 30 pound braid on a 4000 casts horribly. I use 4000 reels with 10 pound braid mostly. I have 30 pound on a 6000 reel and landed many sharks over 100 pounds. Some closer to 200
Question: How many ball bearings does it have
Answer: Silvestre, This is another example of incomplete listings on amazon. Our site has a full clear description and specs.The Penn BattleII that we have on the shelf have 6 total stainless steel ball bearings, 6.2 ratio and 260yd of 20lb line capacity, and the in store special price is far less then our amazon listing. If you have any more questions about the product or price please call us at 360-755-0665.Ron SchmidtValley Sports and More360-755-0665
Question: When the spool is rised up the bail gets stuck over it. Is that normal or is it a defect
Answer: Not sure what you mean about the bail getting stuck over the spool. Is your bail open or closed and how does it get stuck? I ordered 2 and one of them had a spot right when the spool would reach the top while reeling it would stick a little. I decided not try and swap it out due to limited time. They both handled a heavy week of mackeral, amberjack, and shark without flaw. They were running 90lb braid and 5ft, heavy rods. I do recommend a good break down and cleaning of the internals after any extensive saltwater use.
Question: What is the difference from the 8000 and the 1000 real. The lbs is the same on all when you click on the number
Answer: Mike - an 8000 size spinning reel is a very large reel and has a large line capacity. The larger reels (6000 - 8000 size) are designed to fight large fish, plus with the added line capacity you can fish in depths of 100' to 200' and still have plenty of line should a large fish start 'stripping' line as they make their run. The larger reels have drag systems designed to withstand more line stripping should you hook up on a large fish. A 1000 size reel is a very small reel with minimal line capacity. You would select a 1000 size reel if you're fishing for smaller species of fish, although some anglers have the skills to catch sizable fish using 1000 and 1500 sized reels.

One Bass Fishing Reels Level Wind Trolling Reel Conventional Jigging Reel for Saltwater Big Game Fishing-Right Handed

One Bass

Based on 275 reviews Check latest price
  • POWERFUL -One Bass TA Conventional Saltwater Reel with Superior Carbon Fiber Drag System.Offers Up to 45 LB / 20KGS of Smooth Drag. Line Out Clicker Alarm, Easy Access Thumb Bar Spool Release and the Classic Look You would Expect of a Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel.
  • MULTI-DISC CARBONITE DRAG SYSTEM – The One Bass TA Trolling Reel Uses a Multi-disc Carbonite Drag System that has Proven Time and Time Again to Give You Consistent Stopping Power with Smoothness and Durability.
  • 14BB+1RB STAINLESS STEEL BEARINGS– The Use of 14 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings and One Stainless Steel Roller Bearing Prove a Smooth Retrieve and will Withstand Saltwater Fishing Conditions for Years.
  • QUICK DISASSEMBLE HANDLE DESIGN- Only Reversal Agitate Handle Arm and the Handle will be Left the Frame Soon,Ergonomics Handle Knob,Everything is in the Palm of Your Hand.CNC Machine Cut Aircraft Aluminum Frame and Spool. Perfect Drag System Utilizing the Best Aircraft Brake Material, Covering Most Sea Monsters Fishing, You will Never Miss Any Species, No Matter Inshore Flat Fishing, or Offshore for Shark.
  • THREE-YEAR SERVICE!If Any Problem about The Product,Please Contact Us Firstly and Our Customer Service Will Solve It for You Soon.

User questions & answers

Question: How many feet of 120 lb ss wire will the model 5000 hold? looking to hold 600 feet. diameter of the wire is 0.038 inches or 0.96 mm
Answer: I have 80 lb braid on mine and it holds around 450 yards with backing on it.
Question: what rods are yall using on these reels? im using these for bottom fidhing only
Answer: I bought these rods for my brother who is a fishing enthusiast. He says that he uses trolling rods with these reels.
Question: How far Can you cast
Answer: I have not tried to cast it. I use it as a trolling reel.
Question: Is this reel left or right handed? the pictures show right, but i see left in the comments. i need to know as i am a lefty
Answer: i think because of the gear ratio, this one is only a right hand reel. It is so smooth to use . My brother that is a left hand reel person used it and said it did not make any difference which way because it was easy to use. hope this helps

Product features

Oversize Big Game Handle

The oversized big game handles, fatigue reducing weight saving design, nonslip grip for maximum control.

Oversize Cast-Sontrol Knob

Oversize cast-control knob offers easy adjustment

Aluminum Spool

CNC machine cut aircraft aluminum frame and spool. Perfect drag system utilizing the best aircraft brake material.

Internal Component

All internal components, gears, and shaft are hardened and tempered stainless steel.

Rod clamp and wrench system

Includes CNC AIRCRAFT Grade Aluminium Rod Clamps and Wrench System

14+1 Ball Bearing

14 stainless-steel antirust ball bearings and 1 roller bearing ensure smooth performance

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