Best Big Game Fishing Reels

Fishing is a popular hobby that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of experience. If you’re looking to get into fishing, or are just looking for a new reel to add to your collection, then you’re in the right place.

Best Big Game Fishing Reels Review

In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best big-game fishing reels on the market today. We’ll discuss what makes each reel stand out from the crowd, and help you decide which one is right for you. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

1# Shimano BeastMaster 9000A Electric Reel

Shimano BeastMaster Electric Reels

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Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 3.1:1
Ball Bearings: 14
Max Drag: 55 Lbs.
Reel Weight: 52.6 oz.

Looking for a serious saltwater electric reel that can handle the biggest fish out there? Look no further than the Shimano BeastMaster 9000A. With 10% more power and 10% more speed than previous models, this reel is sure to give you the advantage when battling big fish. The advanced GigaMax brushless motor and planetary gear system provide incredible torque, while the maximum winding strength of 290 lbs. and 3.1:1 gear ratio ensures you’ll be able to pull in even the biggest catches. And with up to 55 lbs. of drag power, this reel can handle anything you throw at it. Plus, features like Jigging Mode, an alarm, and audible e-Exciting Drag Sound electronic technology make this reel even more versatile and user-friendly. An improved rod clamp with a wider base ensures a snug and secure fit on your rod for added stability. So whether you’re deep drop fishing or kite fishing, the Shimano BeastMaster 9000A is the electric reel you need to take your game to the next level.

Pros
  • 10% more power and speed than previous models

  • GigaMax brushless motor and planetary gear system provide incredible torque

  • Maximum winding strength of 290 lbs. and a 3.1:1 gear ratio ensures you’ll be able to pull in even the biggest catches

  • Up to 55 lbs. of drag power can handle anything you throw at it

  • Jigging Mode, alarm, and audible e-Exciting Drag Sound electronic technology make the reel versatile and user-friendly

  • Improved rod clamp with a wider base ensures a snug and secure fit on your rod

Cons
  • It may be too powerful for some beginners

  • Some users report occasional reel malfunction

2# Daiwa Marine Power MP3000 Deep Drop/Dredge Trolling Reel

Daiwa Marine Power MP3000 Deep Drop Trolling Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 1.7:1
Ball Bearings: 14+2
Weight: 196.4 oz.

Introducing the Daiwa Marine Power MP3000 Power Assist Deep Drop/Dredge Trolling Reel. This reel is designed for superior strength and retrieves speed, making it ideal for deep drop and dredge fishing. With Magsealed bearing technology for corrosion protection, the Daiwa Marine Power MP3000 Power Assist Deep Drop/Dredge Trolling Reel is sure to withstand the elements. Additionally, the Power Lever instantly adjusts winding speed and power, while the machine-cut aluminium frame, side plates, and spool provide durability and precision. The 16-bearing system (1 Magsealed, 1 CRBB, 14 ball bearings) ensures smooth operation, and the preset Lever Drag and programmable Auto Stop™ feature make this reel easy to use. Plus, the digital display shows line out and distance retrieved for convenience. Finally, the washable design with sealed electronics makes maintenance a breeze. The Daiwa Marine Power MP3000 Power Assist Deep Drop/Dredge Trolling Reel comes with a rod clamp, power cord, and reel bag – everything you need to get started on your next fishing adventure!

Pros
  • Superior strength

  • Retrieves speed

  • Magsealed bearing technology for corrosion protection

  • Machine-cut aluminium frame, side plates, and spool provide durability and precision

  • 16-bearing system (1 Magsealed, 1 CRBB, 14 ball bearings) ensures smooth operation

  • Digital display shows line out and distance retrieved

Cons
  • The reel may be too heavy for some anglers

3# Okuma Convector Linecounter Reel

Okuma Convector Linecounter Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Ball Bearings: 2+1
Max Drag: 20 Lbs.
Weight: 20.6 oz., 22.5 oz.

Okuma’s Convector High-Speed Linecounter Reels feature a mechanical line counter that is ideal for trolling applications. The corrosion-resistant frames and side plates team with machined, anodised-aluminium spools and stainless steel reinforcing side plate rings to deliver exceptional durability in a lightweight package. The multi-disc carbonite drag system delivers buttery-smooth stopping power, while the ratcheting star allows you to fine-tune the drag setting. The two-ball-bearing system provides flawless performance, while the dual anti-reverse system uses both a mechanical and roller bearing to ensure rock-solid hooksets. The durable brass Speed Lock pinion gears encourage quick line retrieval. The drop-down gearboxes and self-lubricating designs ensure weather-defying longevity.

Pros
  • Corrosion-resistant frames and side plates

  • Machined, anodised aluminium spools

  • Stainless steel reinforcing side plate rings

  • Multi-disc carbonite drag system

  • Two ball bearings

  • Dual anti-reverse system

  • Brass Speed Lock pinion gears

  • Drop down gearboxes

  • Self-lubricating

Cons
  • None found

4# Daiwa Lexa 300/400 Line Counter Reel

Daiwa Lexa Line Counter Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 5.5:1, 6.3:1
Ball Bearings: 6+1
Max Drag: 22 Lbs., 25 Lbs.
Weight: 11.99 oz., 10.54 oz., 17.8 oz., 16.6 oz.

The Daiwa Lexa 300/400 Line Counter Reel is a sleek and stylish reel that is perfect for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. This reel features a comfortable handle, high line capacity, and a smooth 7-bearing system. The mechanical line counter reads in feet, making it easy to keep track of your line. The infinite dual anti-reverse ensures that your line stays tight, while the ultimate tournament carbon drag provides the power you need to land big fish. Choose from either the paddle handle or the 100mm power handle option.

Pros
  • Comfortable handle

  • High line capacity

  • Smooth 7-bearing system

  • Mechanical line counter reads in feet

  • Infinite dual anti-reverse

  • Ultimate Tournament carbon drag

Cons
  • Pricey

  • Not suitable for larger fish

  • Gears can be noisy

5# Penn Warfare Line Counter Conventional Saltwater Reel

Penn Warfare Line Counter Conventional Saltwater Reel

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Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 5.1:1
Ball Bearings: 2+1
Max Drag: 15 Lbs., 25 Lbs.
Weight: 17.8 oz., 19.3 oz.

For trolling or deep drop fishing, the Penn Warfare Line Counter Reel offers the versatility and precision you seek, at a surprisingly affordable price. Its 3-digit mechanical counter reads up to 999′ of line out, enabling you to place your lure exactly where you want it behind or under your boat. Strong and reliable, it’s built for long days and heavy seas, with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite frame and side plates edged in stainless steel for extra rigidity to prevent frame flex. Its forged-and-machined aluminium spool, machined brass main and pinion gears, and heavy-duty cranking handle are all designed to stand up to the daily rigours of saltwater fishing, while Penn’s proven drag system is built around super-efficient HT-100 carbon fibre washers to ensure smooth drag performance under the most challenging conditions. So whether you’re targeting big game fish offshore or bottom-dwelling species inshore, the Penn Warfare Line Counter Reel has the power, precision, and durability you need to come out on top.

Pros
  • Strong and reliable, it’s built for long days and heavy seas

  • Lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite frame and side plates edged in stainless steel for extra rigidity to prevent frame flex

  • Machined brass main and pinion gears

  • Heavy-duty cranking handle designed to stand up to the daily rigours of saltwater fishing

  • Proven drag system built around super-efficient HT-100 carbon fibre washers

Cons
  • Some users complain that the line counter is inaccurate

  • A few people find it difficult to use

6# Shimano Tekota Saltwater Casting Fishing Reel

Shimano Tekota Casting Fishing Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 4.2:1
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Max Drag: 30 Lbs., 40 Lbs., 50 Lbs.
Weight: 13.3 oz., 14.3 oz., 15.3 oz., 16 oz., 28.8 oz., 29.8 oz., 30 oz., 31 oz.

The Shimano Tekota Saltwater Casting Fishing Reel is a high-quality reel that’s built to last. It features a diecast aluminium frame, stamped aluminium right side plate, and aluminium braced graphite non-handle side plate. The aluminium spool and rod clamp provide durability, while the super stopper one-way roller bearing and assist stopper back-up anti-reverse offer smooth operation. The dartainium drag provides the smoothest and widest range of drag settings, while the oversized cast control knob and clicker increase the tension on the free spool. The Septon handle grip material provides comfort, and the oversized clicker button ensures easy use. The crossbar forward design allows more access to the spool for better line control. This reel is part of the Metal Series.

Pros
  • Diecast aluminium frame for durability

  • Stamped aluminium right-side plate

  • Aluminium braced graphite non-handle side plate

  • Aluminium spool and rod clamp

  • Super stopper one-way roller bearing and assist stopper back-up anti-reverse offer smooth operation

  • Dartainium drag provides the smoothest and widest range of drag settings

  • Oversized cast control knob and clicker increase the tension on the free spool

  • Septon handle grip material provides comfort

  • The oversized clicker button ensures easy use

  • Crossbar forward design allows more access to the spool for better line control

Cons
  • It can be difficult to adjust the brakes on this reel.

7# Daiwa Sealine X SL-X20SHA

Daiwa Sealine X SL-X20SHA

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 6.1:1
Ball Bearings: 3
Max Drag: 15.4 Lbs.
Weight: 15.5 oz.

The Daiwa Sealine-X SHA Saltwater Conventional Reel was built for anglers who demand the best in terms of power, performance and drag. This reel has a free-floating spool that separates the spool from the gear train on the outcast for less friction, longer casts and faster lure drop. In addition, the 3-bearing system (3CRBB) ensures smooth operation even under the most extreme conditions. The massive, six-element sealed drag is ultra-smooth and consistent, while the tough marine bronze and stainless steel gears can withstand any type of fishing you throw at them. Lastly, the high-tensile aluminium spool is super-strong yet super light in weight, making it easy to handle for all-day use.

Pros
  • The Daiwa Sealine is a durable reel that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

  • It has a smooth drag system that makes it easy to reel in fish.

  • The Daiwa Sealine is also resistant to corrosion, which makes it a good choice for saltwater fishing.

Cons
  • The Daiwa Sealine is a bit on the heavy side.

  • It can be difficult to get the reel started if it has been sitting in the water for a while.

8# PENN Torque Lever Drag Conventional Reel

PENN Torque Lever Drag Conventional Reel

View on AcademySportsOutdoors

Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
Ball Bearings: 6
Weight: 27.4 oz.

Looking for a reliable, high-performing reel to help you land your next big catch? Check out the PENN Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed Conventional Reel. Featuring the Dura-Drag™ system, this reel virtually eliminates hesitation – even under extreme drag settings. With a 2-speed design, you can quickly switch between high and low gears. Plus, the anodized aluminium body provides lightweight strength. With a line capacity of 410 yards/30 pounds, 315 yards/40 pounds, or 235 yards/50 pounds, this reel can handle whatever you throw at it. And at just 27.4 ounces, it won’t weigh you down. Made in the USA.

Pros
  • The Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed Conventional Reel is built to last with a corrosion-resistant frame and side plates

  • It has an impressive amount of drag power for reeling in big fish

  • The gear ratio is perfect for both speed and power when fishing for large gamefish

  • This reel is surprisingly easy to use, even for beginners

Cons
  • The reel is not saltwater-resistant, so it should not be used in saltwater environments

  • It is a bit heavy compared to other reels on the market

9# Shimano Twin Power Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible

Shimano Twin Power Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible

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Specification

Retrieve: Right, Left
Gear Ratio: 4.9:1, 6.2:1
Weight: 12.5 oz., 14.8 oz., 22.4 oz., 22.9 oz.
Reel Size: 80, 100

Check out the Shimano Twin Power Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible. This reel features Shimano Hagane technology for an ultra-smooth and powerful drag, as well as a durable aluminium construction. The anti-reverse design ensures easy use, while the 6.2:1 gear ratio (4000, 5000, 14000) or 4.9:1 gear ratio (8000, 10000) provides plenty of power to fight even the strongest fish.

Pros
  • Hagane technology ensures a smooth and powerful drag

  • Durable aluminium construction

  • Anti-reverse design for easy use

  • A 6.2:1 or 4.9:1 gear ratio provides plenty of power

Cons
  • It can be difficult to convert from left-handed to right-handed use.

  • Some users have reported that the reel is not as comfortable as they would like it to be.

10# Banax Kaigen 7000CP Electric Reel Big Game Jigging Fishing Reel

Banax Kaigen 7000CP Electric Reel Big Game

View on Amazon

Specification

Retrieve: Right
Gear Ratio: 3.5:1
Ball Bearings: 7
Reel Size: 7000

The Banax Kaigen 7000CP electric reel is the perfect choice for anglers who demand the very best. This top-of-the-line reel is made from lightweight aluminium and features a left-hand orientation for easy operation. It also has a braided fishing line type and an aluminium-bearing material for superior performance. With its 1.74-pound weight, this reel is easy to carry and will not weigh you down on long fishing trips.

Pros
  • Lightweight aluminium construction

  • Left-hand orientation for easy operation

  • Braided fishing line type

  • Aluminum-bearing material for superior performance

Cons
  • There have been complaints about the durability of this reel, with some people reporting that it stopped working soon after purchase.

  • Some people have complained that the brake system is not very effective, making it difficult to control the speed of the spool.

11# Shimano Talica Conventional Reel

Shimano Talica Conventional Reel

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Specification

Gear Ratio: 3.8:1, 5.7:1, 6.2:1
Size: 08, 12, 50

The Shimano Talica is the pinnacle of the small lever drag 2-Speed market. It is designed from the ground up to be an excellent casting reel with an ultra-smooth and powerful drag system to handle long battles. These reels were purpose-built to take advantage of modern braided lines such as PowerPro Hollow Ace and shorter fluorocarbon leaders. The Talica is offered in 11 different sizes to tackle a variety of offshore fish from football-size tuna to record-setting class pelagic species. High-Efficiency Gearing technology is used to provide massive cranking power with a smooth effortless retrieve.

Pros
  • Excellent casting reel

  • Ultra-smooth and powerful drag system

  • Designed from the ground up to handle long battles

  • Purpose-built to take advantage of modern braided lines

  • Massive cranking power with a smooth effortless retrieve

Cons
  • Prone to failure

  • Issues with gear ratios

FAQ

How to choose the best big game reel?
When it comes to choosing the best big game reel, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider what type of fishing you’ll be doing. If you’ll be targeting large fish, then you’ll need a reel that can handle a lot of lines. Next, think about the size and weight of the reel. You’ll want something that’s comfortable to use, and that won’t bog you down when you’re fighting a big fish. Finally, take into account the price. Reels can vary significantly in price, so be sure to find one that fits your budget.
What happens if you put too heavy a line on a reel?
If you put too heavy of a line on your reel, it will cause the reel to overheat. This can damage the reel and also make it difficult to cast your line. Additionally, if you put too much weight on your line, you run the risk of breaking your line or even your rod.
What is an 8000 reel good for?
An 8000 reel is a mid-sized reel that is good for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It can handle larger fish than a smaller reel and has enough power to pull in a fish even when fighting against the current.
How do you match a reel to a rod?
The key to matching a reel to a rod is understanding the retrieve rate of the reel. This is the speed at which the spool (the round object on the end of the reel that holds the line) rotates when you turn the handle. To determine this, count how many times your hand turns from lock to lock as you reel in a sample line. There are three common retrieve rates: slow (2-3 turns per second), medium (4-5 turns per second), and fast (6-8 turns per second). You can also find this information on most reels. Matching the correct retrieve rate to your rod will help you cast farther and fish more effectively.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best big game fishing reels, it can be tough to know where to start. With so many different brands and models on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? In this buyer’s guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a reel for big game fishing. We’ll also recommend a few of our favourite models and provide tips on how to use them effectively. So whether you’re just getting started in big game fishing or you’re looking for an upgrade, read on for the information you need to make the right purchase.

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