• Post category:Fishing Reels
  • Post comments:0 Comments
  • Post last modified:August 11, 2022
  • Reading time:22 mins read

Best Trolling Reels

As a fisherman, you know that trolling is one of the best ways to catch fish. But did you know there are different types of trolling reels? So if you are looking for the best trolling reel on the market? you’ve come to the right place!

Best Trolling Reels Review

In this blog post, we will be discussing our top-rated trolling reels and why they are worth your money. Keep reading to learn more!

#1 Penn Fishing Squall 40 Lever Drag Reel

Penn Fishing Squall 40 Lever Drag Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

The Penn Squall 40 Lever Drag Reel is perfect for saltwater fishing. With its Versa-Handle system, you can choose how long the handle should be in less than a minute, and its Dura-Drag washers virtually eliminate hesitation, even under extreme drag settings. Additionally, its line capacity rings let you know how much line you have left when fighting a fish, and its Switch Blade harness lugs give you all the benefits of traditional lugs without the risk of grabbing the loose line and potentially breaking off fish. Finally, its ratcheted drag lever prevents “drag creep” caused by hours of trolling and vibrations.

Pros
  • Virtually eliminate hesitation

  • Line capacity rings

  • Switch Blade harness lugs

  • Ratcheted drag lever

Cons
  • The handle system may not be ideal for everyone

  • The washers may wear down over time

#2 Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter Reel

Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

Check out the Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter Reel! This reel features a built-in line counter (measures in feet), automatic self-engaging clutch, and machined aluminium spool. Plus, with the Ultimate Tournament carbon drag (UTD), this reel can handle even the most challenging conditions. For added durability, the Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter Reel also has a one-piece composite frame and 3 ball bearings. So why wait? Get out there and start fishing with the Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter Reel today!

Pros
  • The reel has a built-in line counter to measure in feet

  • Features an automatic self-engaging clutch

  • Machined aluminium spool for durability

  • Ultimate Tournament carbon drag (UTD) can handle any condition

  • One piece composite frame for durability

  • 3 ball bearings

Cons
  • The reel does not have a brake system which can make it difficult to keep control of the fish when fighting them

  • The handle is not reversible which can be a bit inconvenient for left-handed anglers

#3 Okuma Cold Water LP LncountrSz350

Okuma Cold Water LP LncountrSz350

View on OpticsPlanet

Introducing the Okuma ColdWater! It features a rugged diecast aluminium frame and handles side plate, multi-disc carbonite drag system, and oversized machine-cut brass XL drive and pinion gears. Plus, the mechanical line counter function measures in feet, so you can keep track of your line easily. The CVT (Clear View Technology) anti-fogging line counter ensures that you always have a clear view of your line. And with its two-tone anodized spool, this reel looks great out on the water.

Pros
  • Rugged diecast aluminium frame and handles side plate

  • Multi-disc carbonite drag system

  • Oversized machine cut brass XL drive and pinion gears

  • Mechanical line counter function measures in feet

  • CVT (Clear View Technology) anti-fogging line counter

  • Two-tone anodized spool

Cons
  • It might not be suitable for all applications

  • The reel is not as lightweight as some other models

#4 Daiwa Millionaire Classic

Daiwa Millionaire Classic

View on OpticsPlanet

The Daiwa Millionaire Classic Reel is a high-quality reel that is perfect for serious fishermen. With a gear ratio of 5.1, this reel provides plenty of power and accuracy when casting. The red colour is sure to stand out on the water, and the right-hand design is perfect for those who are right-handed. The aluminium construction makes this reel durable and long-lasting. Additionally, the three-bearing system ensures the smooth operation of the reel. The infinite anti-reverse feature prevents the handle from moving backwards, and the machined aluminium spool provides plenty of line capacity. Finally, the 100mm swept handle with soft touch knobs provides a comfortable grip.

Pros
  • High-quality reel

  • It is perfect for serious fishermen

  • Aluminium construction makes this reel durable and long-lasting

  • Three bearing system ensures the smooth operation of the reel

  • The infinite anti-reverse feature prevents the handle from moving backwards

  • Machined aluminium spool provides plenty of line capacity

  • 100mm swept handle with soft touch knobs provides a comfortable grip

Cons
  • The red colour may not be ideal for all fishermen

  • The right-hand design may not be suitable for everyone

#5 Cabela’s DepthMaster Metal Line Counter Trolling Reel

Cabela's DepthMaster Metal Line Counter Trolling Reel

View on BassPro

The Cabela’s DepthMaster Metal Line Counter Trolling Reel is perfect for anglers who demand the very best. With a rugged, corrosion-resistant aluminium frame and spool, this reel is built to last. The titanium-coated stainless steel level wind ensures smooth operation, while the mechanical line counter measures in feet for easy reference. The high-strength, durable brass XL gearing provides superior performance, and the 2+1 system with stainless steel ball bearings plus anti-reverse gives you the peace of mind that your reel will handle anything you can throw at it. The innovative Carbonite drag system with ratcheting star control provides smooth, reliable drag performance, while the aluminium handle with a soft-touch knob ensures comfortable operation.

Pros
  • Rugged, corrosion-resistant aluminium frame and spool

  • Titanium-coated stainless steel level wind

  • High-strength, durable brass XL gearing

  • 2+1 system with stainless steel ball bearings plus anti-reverse

  • Innovative Carbonite drag system with ratcheting star control

  • Aluminium handle with a soft-touch knob

Cons
  • It may be too rough for some anglers

  • The mechanical line counter measures in feet, which might not be precise enough for some anglers

#6 Okuma Convector Low-Profile Line-Counter Reel

Okuma Convector Low-Profile Line-Counter Reel

View on BassPro

Have a look at the Okuma Convector Low-Profile Line-Counter Ree! This mechanical line countermeasure in feet, so it’s easy to keep track of your line. The CVT prevents fogging, so it’s easy to read in all conditions. The on/off clicker is ideal for trolling applications. The corrosion-resistant graphite frame and side plates are built to last. The anodised-aluminium spool is also durable and provides smooth performance. The multi-disc carbonite drag system ensures smooth operation. This reel also features 2 ball bearings with an anti-reverse roller bearing for smooth operation.

Pros
  • Easy to read in all conditions

  • Prevents fogging

  • Corrosion-resistant frame and side plates

  • Anodised aluminium spool

  • The multidisc carbonite drag system

Cons
  • The on/off clicker is not ideal for trolling applications

  • It is made out of plastic

#7 PENN Squall II Line Counter Levelwind Reel

PENN Squall II Line Counter Levelwind Reel

View on BassPro

Welcome to the PENN Squall II Line Counter Levelwind Reel. This reel is perfect for anglers who demand precision and durability. The Squall II features a lightweight graphite frame and side plates, making it incredibly easy to handle. Additionally, the Fast Gear Access Sideplate provides quick and easy access to all of the reel’s internals, so you can make adjustments on the fly. The forged and machined aluminium spool ensures years of trouble-free use, while the Line Capacity Rings let you keep an eye on your line at all times. The analogue line counter is extremely accurate, while the high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear ensures years of dependable use.

Pros
  • Lightweight graphite frame and side plates

  • Fast Gear Access Sideplate

  • Forged and machined aluminium spool

  • Line Capacity Rings

  • High-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear

Cons
  • Analogue line counter can be difficult to read in direct sunlight

#8 Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Line Counter Reel

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Line Counter Reel

View on BassPro

These ultra-smooth and accurate Ambassadeur Line Counter Reels from Abu Garcia are built for trolling and tangling with the big boys. Featuring a palmable line counter that counts in feet and a line-out system to alert you when your line is being stripped, these Ambassadeur Line Counter Reels are equipped with an aluminium spool, two stainless steel balls bearings plus a corrosion-resistant instant anti-reverse bearing and Abu Garcia’s Carbon Matrix drag system. Model 6500LC is outfitted with a power handle to maximize your cranking power.

Pros
  • Ultra-smooth and accurate

  • Built for trolling and tangling with the big boys

  • Palmable line counter that counts in feet

  • Line-out system to alert you when your line is being stripped

  • Aluminium spool

  • Two stainless steel ball bearings plus a corrosion-resistant instant anti-reverse bearing

  • Carbon Matrix drag system

Cons
  • It could be a little more durable

  • It has some plastic parts that could be improved

#9 Daiwa SeaLine SG B/BW Line Counter Reel

Daiwa SeaLine SG B/BW Line Counter Reel

View on BassPro

The Daiwa SeaLine SG B/BW Line Counter Reel is a high-quality reel that is perfect for serious anglers. Featuring a direct-drive, built-in line counter, this reel is sure to make locating and landing fish easier than ever. Made with a machined aluminium spool and a 1-piece composite frame, this reel is built to last. The UT drag system ensures smooth, consistent drag on even the most stubborn fish. The helical-cut gears and Power Mesh drive provide maximum winding power, while the spool clicker keeps you informed of when fish are biting. The auto-engage clutch makes for easy and effortless reeling. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, the Daiwa SeaLine SG B/BW Line Counter Reel is a good choice.

Pros
  • Direct-drive, built-in line counter

  • Machined aluminium spool

  • 1-piece composite frame

  • UT drag system

  • Helical-cut gears

  • Power Mesh drive

  • Spool clicker

  • Auto-engage clutch

Cons
  • The reel is a bit heavy

  • It can be difficult to wind the line back on if you’re not used to it

#10 Shimano Tekota A 400 Line Counter Reel

Shimano Tekota A 400 Line Counter Reel

View on BassPro

Looking for a versatile trolling reel that can handle anything you throw at it? Then check out the Shimano Tekota A 400 Line Counter Reel. This tough little reel is a favourite among anglers for its durability and power. With improved gear strength, a compact body design, and ergonomic fit and feel, this reel is built for comfort and performance. Plus, with Coreprotect technology, your reel will stay clean and dry no matter what conditions you’re fishing in. And if you’re worried about line management, the analogue counter with an easy-to-replace anti-fogging lens has got you covered. For a top-of-the-line trolling reel that won’t let you down, choose the Shimano Tekota A 400 Line Counter Reel!

Pros
  • Durable

  • Powerful

  • Compact body design

  • Ergonomic fit and feel

  • Coreprotect technology

  • Analogue counter with easy-to-replace anti-fogging lens

Cons
  • It may be too powerful for some anglers

#11 Okuma Cold Water Low-Profile Line Counter Reel

Okuma Cold Water Low-Profile Line Counter Reel

View on BassPro

We have a great versatile and reliable baitcaster! It is the Okuma Cold Water Low-Profile Line Counter Reel. This reel is equipped with an anti-fog line counter, making it perfect for a variety of fishing conditions and techniques. Its rigid diecast aluminium frame and machined and anodized aluminium spool make it durable enough to withstand the elements, while its XL drive and pinion gears provide smooth and reliable performance. Plus, its Quick-Set instant anti-reverse and multi-disc Carbonite drag system offer optimum fish-fighting power. And with its ergonomic handle knob, this reel is comfortable to use all day long. So whether you’re targeting bass, trout, or walleye, test our Okuma Cold Water Low-Profile Line Counter Reel!

Pros
  • Rigid diecast aluminium frame

  • Machined and anodized aluminium spool

  • XL drive and pinion gears provide smooth and reliable performance

  • Quick-Set instant anti-reverse

  • Multi-disc Carbonite drag system offers optimum fish-fighting power

Cons
  • Anti-fog line counter may not work in all fishing conditions

  • It may be too heavy for some anglers

FAQ

What type of reel is best for trolling?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best trolling reel for you will depend on your individual fishing needs and preferences. However, we can provide some general advice about the different types of trolling reels available. Baitcasting reels are a popular choice for trolling, as they offer good casting accuracy and distance. They are also typically more durable than other types of trolling reels. Spincast reels are another option for trolling and are known for their ease of use and forgiving casting. They are not as durable as baitcasting reels, but they are a good choice for novice anglers. Fly fishing reels are not typically used for trolling, but they can be a good option if you are targeting specific fish species that can be caught with a fly rod.
What size reel do I need for trolling?
The size reel you need for trolling will depend on the size of your fishing rod and the type of fish you are targeting. If you are using a baitcasting rod, you will need a reel that is large enough to handle the weight of your lure. Spincast reels are a good choice for smaller rods, while baitcasting reels are best for larger rods. If you are using a fly fishing rod, you will need a reel that is matched to the size of your fly rod.
What makes a trolling reel?
A trolling reel is a type of fishing reel that is used for trolling. Trolling is a technique where you slowly drag your lure behind the boat to attract fish. There are many different types of trolling reels available, and the best one for you will depend on your individual fishing needs and preferences. Some of the factors you will need to consider when choosing a trolling reel include the size of your fishing rod, the type of fish you are targeting, and your level of experience.

Conclusion

When looking for the best trolling reel, it is important to consider what you will be using it for. There are many different types of reels on the market, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. We have provided a buyer’s guide to help you make the best decision for your needs. We have also included reviews of some of the top-rated trolling reels on the market. With this information, you should be able to find the perfect trolling reel for your next fishing trip.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments