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  • Post last modified:August 11, 2022
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Best Ice Fishing Reels

If you’re a fisherman, then there’s no doubt that you’ve tried your hand at ice fishing. It’s a great wintertime activity that can be really fun and rewarding. But if you’re new to the game, it can be a little tricky to get started. Are you looking for the best ice fishing reel to help you catch more fish this winter? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Best Ice Fishing Reels Review

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best ice fishing reels on the market and tell you why they’re worth considering. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right ice fishing reel for your needs. So read on to learn more!

#1 13 Fishing Black Betty XL FreeFall Inline Reel

13 Fishing Black Betty XL FreeFall Inline Reel

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The 13 Fishing Black Betty XL FreeFall Inline Reel is an advanced reel designed for ice fishing. It features a larger capacity, more drag, and a faster drop rate than its predecessor. The FreeFall trigger releases the line when pulled, and the pressure can be released to instantly reengage. The magnetic drop speed adjustment system makes it easy to Customize your settings. The carbon frame is extremely durable, and the machined aluminium spool is built to last. The 3:1 gear ratio is perfect for ice fishing, and the 4 stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth operation. The instant anti-reverse feature is a must-have for ice fishermen, and the smooth, strong carbon drag system ensures reliable performance.

Pros
  • Faster drop rate

  • A carbon frame is extremely durable

  • The machined aluminium spool is built to last

  • The 3:1 gear ratio is perfect for ice fishing

  • 4 stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth operation

  • Instant anti-reverse feature

Cons
  • It is difficult to use because the spool does not have a consistent brake

#2 Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel

Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel

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The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel is the perfect reel for your ice fishing needs. It features a composite frame and aluminium spool for strength and durability, while the free-spool trigger system and magnetic brake make for easy casting and smooth retrieves. The 5+1 bearing system ensures reliable performance, while the carbon drag provides smooth drag action. The aluminium handle with the EVA knob provides a comfortable grip, even in cold conditions. And for extreme conditions, the cold gear lube keeps the reel performing at its best. Plus, the spool lock keeps your line from tangling.

Pros
  • Composite frame and aluminium spool for strength and durability

  • Free-spool trigger system and magnetic brake make for easy casting and smooth retrieves

  • 5+1 bearing system ensures reliable performance

  • Carbon drag provides smooth drag action

  • The aluminium handle with the EVA knob provides a comfortable grip, even in cold conditions

  • Cold gear lube keeps the reel performing at its best

Cons
  • The reel is a little too light for some fishermen’s taste

#3 13 Fishing Black Betty 6061 Ice Reel

13 Fishing Black Betty 6061 Ice Reel

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13 Fishing’s Black Betty 6061 Ice Reel is the perfect take-along ice fishing reel. Its 6061 CNC-machined aluminium construction and 2.7:1 gear ratio make it a workhorse on the ice, while the integrated fender design protects your hand from the cold while pencil-gripping the rod. The reel also features a dead stick alarm system to alert you when the line is being pulled, plus carbon drag and 5 stainless steel ball bearings for smooth performance. So whether you’re an experienced ice angler or just getting started, the Black Betty 6061 Ice Reel is a great choice for a fun and productive day on the ice.

Pros
  • CNC-machined aluminium construction

  • 2.7:1 gear ratio

  • Integrated fender design

  • Dead stick alarm system

  • Carbon drag

  • 5 stainless steel ball bearings

Cons
  • The reel is a bit heavy

  • It doesn’t have a brake system

#4 Clam Gravity Elite Inline Hybrid Reel

Clam Gravity Elite Inline Hybrid Reel

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The Clam Gravity Elite Inline Hybrid Reel is an extremely lightweight reel that is perfect for any angler. With its ergonomic design, this reel is comfortable to use and perfect for those long days out on the water. The highly efficient drag system ensures smooth operation, while the trigger-adjustable free spool tension makes it easy to adjust for different conditions. The tough CNC/graphite construction can handle any type of fish, and the fixed retrieve ensures that you won’t lose your catch. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Clam Gravity Elite Inline Hybrid Reel is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable reel.

Pros
  • Lightweight and comfortable

  • The highly efficient drag system

  • Trigger-adjustable free spool tension

  • CNC/graphite construction

  • Fixed retrieve

Cons
  • It can be tough to adjust the free spool tension

#5 Clam Gravity Inline Reel

Clam Gravity Inline Reel

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The Clam Gravity Inline Reel is a top-of-the-line choice for serious anglers. It features a lightweight ergonomic design for easy handling and a highly efficient adjustable drag system that can be easily adjusted to the desired setting. The main operating drag is super-smooth for an effortless experience, while the free spool tension can be easily adjusted with the trigger for sensitive control. The reel also accommodates all jig weights, making it a versatile option for any fishing situation. It is constructed of durable graphite composite for long-lasting use and has a fixed retrieve for easy operation. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, the Clam Gravity Inline Reel is a great choice!

Pros
  • Lightweight ergonomic design for easy handling

  • The highly efficient adjustable drag system

  • Adjustable free spool tension with trigger

  • Accommodates all jig weights

  • Durable graphite composite construction

  • Fixed retrieve

Cons
  • It is a bit difficult to use at first

  • There have been complaints about the reel’s durability

#6 13 Fishing FreeFall Ghost Inline Ice Fishing Reel

13 Fishing FreeFall Ghost Inline Ice Fishing Reel

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The 13 Fishing FreeFall Ghost Inline Ice Fishing Reel is the perfect choice for anglers who demand precision and control. The FreeFall trigger releases the line when pulled, and reengages when released, while the magnetic drop speed adjustment system ensures smooth consistent performance. The Advanced Freefall Performance Window technology provides an unprecedented level of control over your lure, while the graphite composite frame ensures durability and strength. The integrated line feeder ensures smooth, consistent line release, while the aluminium handle with Soft Touch knobs provides a comfortable grip. The graphite star drag provides smooth, consistent drag performance, and the 3+1 system with stainless steel ball bearings provides smooth operation.

Pros
  • It is a durable reel that is built to last

  • The 7+1 ball bearings make this reel smooth and easy to use

  • The titanium line guide helps to prevent wear and tear

Cons
  • It is more expensive than most other ice fishing reels

  • The integrated line feeder can be a bit temperamental

#7 Pflueger Trion Inline Ice Reel

Pflueger Trion Inline Ice Reel

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The Pflueger Trion Inline Ice Reel is designed for anglers who demand maximum control and performance. Featuring a tough composite frame and a free-spool trigger system, the Trion gives you the power to smoothly drop your lure with one hand. Additionally, the 3+1 bearing system ensures dependable operation, while the oiled felt drag provides smooth, consistent drag. Finally, the aluminium handle with a Soft Touch knob makes it easy to grip even in the coldest conditions. Pre-treated with cold gear lube for extreme conditions, the Pflueger Trion Inline Ice Reel is a top choice for serious anglers.

Pros
  • Tough composite frame

  • Free-spool trigger system

  • 3+1 bearing system

  • Oiled felt drag

  • Aluminium handle with Soft Touch knob

Cons
  • The trigger system can be difficult to use

  • The knob is a bit too small

#8 Okuma Avenger ABF Spinning Reel

Okuma Avenger ABF Spinning Reel

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The Okuma Avenger ABF Spinning Reel is a smooth, durable reel with a bait feeder system. The micro-adjustable secondary drag for bait feeder tension, corrosion-resistant frame, side plate, and rotor make this reel a great choice for fishing. The CFR Cyclonic Flow Rotor technology and Computer-balanced RES II Rotor Equalizing System make the Okuma Avenger ABF Spinning Reel a great choice for your next fishing adventure.

Pros
  • Smooth operation

  • Durable

  • Bait feeder system

  • Micro-adjustable drag

  • Corrosion-resistant frame, side plate and rotor

Cons
  • The bait feeder system can be a little finicky

#9 Pflueger Monarch Ice Reel

Pflueger Monarch Ice Reel

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The Pflueger Monarch Ice Reel is the perfect choice for anglers who want a reliable reel that can withstand the harshest freezing conditions. Its lightweight graphite body and rotor keep the overall weight to a minimum, while its thick aluminium bail wire ensures rigidity to prevent bending. 5 corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings deliver smooth performance at all times. Instant anti-reverse for instant hook sets

Pros
  • Lightweight graphite body and rotor

  • Thick aluminium bail wire

  • 5 corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings

  • Instant anti-reverse

Cons
  • It is not suitable for saltwater fishing

#10 Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel

Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel

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Looking for an ice fishing reel that won’t let you down? Check out the Frabill Straight Line 371. This reel is built to last with lightweight composite construction and a spool guarded to allow palm grip. It has a 3.7:1 reel ratio with a super smooth drag and instant anti-reverse, so you can easily keep your catch on the line. The large balanced spool maximizes retrieval rate and the line feeds straight off of the spool, eliminating line coiling and spinning of tackle. Plus, the audible/silent bait alarm switch lets you know when a fish is biting.

Pros
  • Lightweight composite construction for easy transport

  • Spool guarded to allow palm grip

  • 3.7:1 reel ratio for smooth drag and instant anti-reverse

  • Large balanced spool for a high retrieval rate

  • Line feeds straight off of the spool

Cons
  • Prone to tangles

  • Noisy bait alarm switch

FAQ

Do you need a special reel for ice fishing?
You can use any reel for ice fishing, but a spin cast reel is the easiest to use. A spinning reel will also work well, but it may be more difficult to control than a spin cast reel.
How do I choose an ice reel?
When choosing an ice reel, you’ll need to consider the weight and size of the fish you’re hoping to catch. Larger fish will require a heavier reel with more line capacity. You’ll also need to decide what type of fishing line you want to use. Mono-filament fishing line is strong and resists freezing, but it is more visible in the water. Fluorocarbon fishing line is less visible in the water, but it is weaker and can freeze. Finally, you’ll need to decide what type of handle you want on your reel. A standard handle will work for most anglers, but a pistol grip handle can provide more power when fighting a fish.
How do I keep my reels from freezing?
One way to keep your reels from freezing is to use a reel cover. A reel cover will protect your reels from the elements and help them stay warm. You can also keep your reels warm by using a heated shelter or keeping them in your pocket between casts. If your reels do freeze, thaw them slowly and carefully with a heating pad or hair dryer.

Conclusion

Ice Fishing can be a very fun and rewarding activity, but in order to make the most of it, you need the right gear. In this article, we’ve outlined what we believe to be the best ice fishing reels on the market today. We’ve also included some tips on how to choose the right reel for your needs, as well as some common questions that people have about ice fishing reels. Hopefully, this information will help you select the perfect reel for your next Ice Fishing outing. Thanks for reading!

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