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  • Post last modified:October 2, 2022
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Best Fishing Reels For Catfish

When fishing for catfish, having the right reel is critical. There are a number of different reels on the market that can be used for catfishing, but not all of them are equal.

Best Fishing Reels For Catfish Review

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of fishing reels that are best for catfish and provide some tips on how to use them. We’ll also recommend some of our favourite fishing reels for catfish. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, read on to learn more about fishing for catfish!

1# PENN Fathom Baitcast Reel

PENN Fathom Baitcast Reel HT-100

View on BassPro

Specification

Retrieve: Left, Right
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1, 6.6:1, 7.3:1, 7.6:1
Ball Bearings: 6+1
Max Drag: 24 Lbs., 30 Lbs., 25 Lbs.

The PENN Fathom Baitcast Reel is a versatile, high-performance reel that can handle a wide range of fishing conditions. It features a full-metal body and cranks side plate that protects the internal components from the elements, and a smooth 6+1 stainless steel bearing system that ensures smooth operation. The brass main gear and bearing-supported bronze pinion gear provide durability and long-term performance, while the HT-100 carbon-fibre drag washers apply smooth, relentless pressure at all settings. The dual-action casting brake dials in control for precision casting, and the line-capacity rings let you know how much line is left with just a quick glance. The TiN coated level wind system lays the line down straight and even, for trouble-free casting and retrieving.

Pros
  • Durable construction

  • Smooth 6+1 stainless steel bearing system

  • Brass main gear and bearing-supported bronze pinion gear

  • HT-100 carbon-fibre drag washers

  • Dual-action casting brake

  • Line capacity rings

  • TiN coated level wind system

Cons
  • No cons found as of now

2# Avet SX G2 Lever Drag Conventional Reel

Avet SX G2 Lever Drag Conventional Reel

View on BassPro

Specification

Retrieve: Left, Right
Gear Ratio: 5.3:1
Max Drag: 20 Lbs.

Avet’s SX Series G2 Lever Drag Conventional Reel is built for the serious angler who demands the best in terms of power and performance. Its precision-machined 6061 T6 marine-grade aluminium frame and rugged stainless steel gearing can handle any fish you hook, while its 8 stainless steel ball bearings ensure a smooth, reliable cast every time. This reel also features Avet’s patented, industry-leading silent dog-and-gear anti-reverse system, which has been redesigned with more teeth for rock-solid engagement. Plus, its powerful lever drag system with adjustable strike preset and Avedrag Dry Carbon Fiber drag componentry can handle even the strongest fish. For the ultimate in saltwater fishing performance, look no further than the Avet SX Series G2 Lever Drag Conventional Reel.

Pros
  • Precision-machined 6061 T6 marine-grade aluminium frame

  • Rugged stainless steel gearing

  • 8 stainless steel ball bearings

  • Patented, industry-leading silent dog-and-gear anti-reverse system

  • Powerful lever drag system with adjustable strike preset

  • Avedrag Dry Carbon Fiber drag componentry

Cons
  • It may be too powerful for some anglers

  • It could be difficult to use for beginners

3# PENN Squall II Levelwind Reel

PENN Squall II Levelwind Reel

View on BassPro

Specification

Retrieve: Left, Right
Gear Ratio: 4.0:1, 4.9:1
Ball Bearings: 3+1
Max Drag: 33 Lbs.

The PENN Squall II Levelwind Reel is your perfect choice for saltwater fishing. With durable construction and powerful drag, this reel can handle any fish you throw its way. The Fast Gear Access Sideplate design makes maintenance quick and easy, while the etched Line Capacity Rings keep you informed of how many lines you have left. Get out on the water and give the Squall II a try – you won’t be disappointed.

Pros
  • Durable construction

  • Powerful drag

  • Fast Gear Access Sideplate design

  • Etched Line Capacity Rings

Cons
  • It is not ideal for beginners

  • Saltwater use only

  • Fairly expensive

4# PENN Battle III Spinning Reel

PENN Battle Spinning Reel

View on BassPro

Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 4.2:1, 4.7:1, 5.3:1, 5.6:1, 6.2:1, 7.0:1
Ball Bearings: 5+1
Max Drag: 15 Lbs., 12 Lbs., 25 Lbs., 30 Lbs., 40 Lbs.

The PENN Battle III Spinning Reel is good for anglers who demand the very best. With a tough metal body and side plate, this reel can handle anything you throw at it. The superline spool is ready for braided line, and the CNC Gear Technology ensures smooth reliable performance. The 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system keeps your reel running smoothly, while the HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers provide smooth, consistent drag pressure. When you’re ready to do battle with the big fish, make sure you’re armed with the PENN Battle III Spinning Reel.

Pros
  • The tough metal body and side plate can handle anything

  • Superline spool is ready for braided line

  • CNC Gear Technology ensures smooth reliable performance

  • 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system keeps your reel running smoothly

  • HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag Washers provide smooth, consistent drag pressure

Cons
  • It can be a bit heavy

  • Superline spool is not compatible with traditional monofilament line

  • It can be noisy

5# Shimano Baitrunner OC Spinning Fishing Reel

Shimano Baitrunner OC Spinning Fishing Reel

View on OpticsPlanet

Specification

Gear Ratio: 4.4:1, 4.8:1

Check out the Shimano Baitrunner OC Spinning Fishing Reel. This top-of-the-line reel is constructed of durable XT-7 material, making it ideal for use in saltwater conditions. It also features a bait runner feature, which makes it the perfect choice for live bait fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a weekend warrior, the Shimano Baitrunner OC Spinning Fishing Reel is a must-have for your next fishing expedition.

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Smooth Drag System

  • High-Quality Components

Cons
  • The line capacity is low

  • It can be difficult to find replacement parts

6# Shimano Twin Power Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible

Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible

View on AcademySportsOutdoors

Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 4.9:1, 6.2:1
Reel Size: 80, 100

Enjoy some saltwater fishing action with the Shimano Twin Power Saltwater Spinning Reel Convertible. This reel features Shimano™ technology for durability and reliability, Hagane technology to help you fight powerful fish, and aluminium construction for lasting use. The anti-reverse design provides extra control, while the 6.2:1 gear ratio (4000, 5000, 14000) or 4.9:1 gear ratio (8000, 10000) ensures smooth operation. Choose from a variety of models to fit your needs, including the 4000 (12.5 ounces, 160 yards/12 pounds), 5000 (14.8 ounces, 165 yards/14 pounds), 8000 (22.4 ounces, 185 yards/20 pounds), 10000 (22.9 ounces, 220 yards/20 pounds), or 14000 (26.0 ounces/260 yards/20 pounds).

Pros
  • Shimano technology for durability and reliability

  • Hagane technology to help you fight powerful fish

  • Aluminium construction for lasting use

  • The anti-reverse design provides extra control

  • 6.2:1 gear ratio (4000, 5000, 14000) or 4.9:1 gear ratio (8000, 10000) ensures smooth operation

Cons
  • It cannot be used for heavy-duty fishing

  • Gears may wear down over time

7# PENN Spinfisher VI Spinning Reel

PENN Spinfisher Spinning Reels

View on AcademySportsOutdoors

Specification

Retrieve: Left/Right
Gear Ratio: 4.2:1, 4.7:1, 5.6:1, 6.2:1
Reel Size: 35, 45, 65, 75, 95

The PENN Spinfisher VI is a high-quality spinning reel that offers anglers smooth retrieves and consistent performance. Featuring CNC Gear technology for precise gear engagement and HT-100 carbon fibre drag washers for smooth drag, this reel is built to last. The full IPX5 sealed body and spool design keep water and dirt out, while the 5 plus 1 stainless steel ball bearing system ensures smooth operation. Line capacity rings let you know how much line you have left, and the superline spool ensures easy casting.

Pros
  • Smooth retrieves

  • Consistent performance

  • CNC Gear technology

  • HT-100 carbon fibre drag washers

  • IPX5 sealed body and spool design

  • 5 plus 1 stainless steel ball-bearing system

  • Line capacity rings

Cons
  • Gear can become stripped if not careful

FAQ

What kind of reel is best for catfishing?
The best fishing reel for catfishing is a baitcasting reel. It has a larger spool than other types of reels, which is important for casting heavy baits accurately. The downside to baitcasting reels is that they can be more difficult to use for beginners. They require more finesse and can be easy to backlash if not used correctly.
What size reel is best for catfish?
The best size reel for catfish is a medium-sized baitcasting reel. It has enough power to cast heavy baits accurately, but it is still easy to use.
Can you catfish with a spinning reel?
Yes, you can catfish with a spinning reel, but it is not the best choice for this type of fishing. A spinning reel is better suited for smaller fish that don’t require as much power to catch. A baitcasting reel has more power and is better suited for catching larger fish like catfish.

Conclusion

Catfish are a common target for anglers in the United States. There are many ways to catch them, but using the right fishing reel is essential. In this article, we’ve recommended some of the best fishing reels for catfish based on our own personal experience and consumer feedback. If you’re looking to buy a new fishing reel specifically for catfish, any of the models we’ve listed will make an excellent choice. Thanks for reading!

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