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The Best Fishing Reels for Securing the Ultimate Catch

The Camping List Review Team
Written By The Camping List Review Team
Last updated: Jan 22, 2025, 03:13 AM
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best fishing reels

Any avid fishing fan knows that the key to bringing in a good catch is not only patience, but quality equipment. Fishing reels help you reel-in fish more easily by providing precision and speed, keeping your catch from getting away. Our team looked at many fishing reels on the market and compared them based on features like durability, line capacity, drag, and castability and found the HANDING M1 Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel to be the best option. This reel revolutionizes the fishing experience with a 26.5LBs max drag and a 5.2:1 gear ratio.

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Best Fishing Reels

The Best Fishing Reels of 2025

HANDING Fishing Reel

Best Overall
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The HANDING M1 Spinning Reel is a high-performing asset for fishing, especially for sport. This reel boasts 9+1 ball bearings, a 26.5LBs max drag, and a 5.2:1 gear ratio, offering speed and accuracy when reeling in your line. The casting accuracy along with the smooth retrieval aids in successfully hooking and landing fish. Not only does it perform exceptionally well, but it also offers remarkable durability with its graphite frame and CNC aluminum spool. The reel accommodates seamlessly with everything from 500 to 5000 series, promising to satisfy all your fishing needs. What we think sets this reel apart from the rest is its interchangeable handle, making it a versatile choice for both right and left-handed individuals.

Product Pros
  • High-quality drag system
  • Smooth and easy casting
  • Instant anti-reverse bearing
Product Cons
  • Heavier than comparable reels
Key features/specs
Graphite frame with CNC aluminum spool
Up to 26.5 lbs of drag power
Gear ratio of 5.2:1
Aluminum handle with EVA knob
9+1 bearing system with steel ball bearings
Precision-machined brass gear
Available in sizes 500 to 5000

Zebco Fishing Reel

Easiest to Use
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Whether you’re a beginner angler or a more skilled pro, the Zebco 202 Spincast Fishing Reel is the perfect addition to your gear arsenal. This reel exhibits incredible durability and an easy-to-use design. Crafted with stainless steel gears, it resists wear and tear and offers an ergonomic grip. Its right-hand retrieve mechanism, dial-adjustable drag, and quick-set anti-reverse function completely simplify the fishing process to give you a stress-free experience. We love that this fishing reel is pre-spooled with a 10-pound Zebco fishing line, ready for action right out of the clam packaging. 

Product Pros
  • Easy to use and comfortable to hold
  • No-tangle design and push-button mechanics
  • 2.8:1 gear ratio for a smooth retrieve
Product Cons
  • Not ideal for saltwater fishing
Key features/specs
Patented no-tangle design
Simple push-button mechanics
All-metal gears construction
2.8:1 gear ratio
Dial-adjustable drag and quickset anti-reverse
Pre-spooled with 10-pound
Zebco fishing line
Durable stainless steel pick up pin

Qingler Fishing Reel

Best for Ice Fishing
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The Qingler Summer and Centron Spinning Reel makes fishing in the summer or winter a breeze with its lightweight build, anti-reverse switch, and a 5.1:1 line/speed ratio. If you enjoy ice fishing or fish for lighter catches, the Qingler Summer and Centron Spinning Reel is the perfect option to enhance your experience. Lightweight and ultra-smooth, this reel stands up to intensive use while providing a seamless operation. What sets this fishing reel apart is its 12 +1 BB light weight construction, effortlessly optimizing control of your fishing line. It also has a handy anti-reverse switch and a large weight-adjustment button for smoother casts and retrieval.

Product Pros
  • Compact and light weight
  • Smooth and robust performance
  • High line speed and comfy grip
Product Cons
  • Reviews are mixed on durability
Key features/specs
Contains twelve quality ball bearings
Features an anti-reverse switch
Line speed ratio of 5.1:1
Maximum fishing force of 13 lb
Ambidextrous fishing reel

KastKing Fishing Reel

Smoothest Casting
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If you’re in search of a fishing reel that performs smoothly and reliably every time, then it’s imperative that you consider the KastKing Brutus Size 2000 Spinning Reel. It’s designed to provide smooth casting and retrieval, ensuring your fishing experiences are seamless and enjoyable. Its construction is robust and the reel doesn’t just spin; it glides, offering precision and control that other reels can’t match. The ergonomic, T-shaped PVC handle grip makes using the reel comfortable, even for beginners, and the sturdy rotor and body with up to 18.6 lbs of max drag make it perfect for heavier catches.

Product Pros
  • Lightweight and sturdy
  • 4 ball bearings in core locations
  • Smooth and efficient drag system
Product Cons
  • Not designed for saltwater fishing
Key features/specs
Designed for various freshwater species
Available in 4 sizes from 2000 to 5000
Made with a lightweight graphite frame
Steel main shaft and 4 ball bearings
Adjustable multi-disc drag system
5.2:1 gear ratio

Sougayilang Fishing Reel

Best Value for Money
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The Sougayilang Fishing Reel 13+1BB strikes an impressive balance between quality and affordability. Engineered with a lightweight yet robust aluminum body, it ensures you reel in your catch with ease and precision. Its fine-tuned mechanism offers ultra-smooth operation, allowing you to cast and retrieve effortlessly. In addition, the reel comes with a free spare graphite spool, giving you an advantage, especially during longer fishing trips.

Product Pros
  • Smooth and strong drag system
  • Comes with a spare spool
  • Offers value for money
Product Cons
  • Not suited for saltwater
Key features/specs
13+1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings
One-way, anti-reverse bearing
Comes with an extra spool
Equipped with precision brass gears
Features hardened metal main shaft
Triple disc carbon drag washers included

A Buyer's Guide to Fishing Reels

Choosing the right fishing reel is crucial for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience, as they help you reel-in your catch more easily. This buying guide aims to help you pick the best fishing reel to suit your needs and enhance your overall fishing experience.

Type of Reel

The first step in selecting a fishing reel is identifying the type that suits your fishing style and needs. Spinning reels are versatile, straightforward to use, and ideal for beginners. Baitcasting reels offer precision and power, perfect for professional anglers targeting larger fish. Fly-fishing reels, on the other hand, are designed for fly fishing techniques. The type of reel you choose directly impacts your casting distance, control, and the kind of fish you can catch, so try to make an informed choice.

Material and Durability

The material of the fishing reel significantly influences its durability and performance. High-quality reels are typically made from aluminum, graphite, or a combination of both. Aluminum reels are sturdy and resist bending, ideal for heavy-duty fishing. Graphite reels are lighter and resist corrosion, making them perfect for saltwater fishing. Make sure to select a reel that can weather the elements and stand the test of time.

Gear Ratio

Understanding the gear ratio of a fishing reel helps you to control the speed of your catch. The gear ratio signifies how many times the spool turns with each handle turn. A high gear ratio reel retrieves quickly, ideal for fast-swimming fish. A lower gear ratio offers more power, perfect for reeling in bigger, heavy fish. Prioritize your reel’s gear ratio based on the species of fish you aim to catch.

Ball Bearings

Consider the number and quality of ball bearings in your potential fishing reel. Ball bearings ensure the smooth operation of your reel. Generally, the more ball bearings a reel has, the smoother its performance. However, the quality of these bearings is equally important. Opt for stainless steel bearings for long-lasting smooth reel performance.

Drag System

The drag system is a crucial component to consider as it prevents your line from breaking when a fish pulls hard. A smooth, adjustable drag system allows you to control the amount of resistance a fish feels. Front-drag systems are durable and perform well under pressure. Rear-drag systems are easier to adjust mid-fight. Your choice should reflect your fishing style and comfort.

Line Capacity

Check the line capacity of the fishing reel. It indicates how much and what type of line the reel can hold. If you’re aiming for large fish or fishing in deep water, you’ll need a reel with a higher line capacity. Likewise, if you’re targeting smaller fish in shallow water, a lower line capacity will suffice.

People Also Asked

What are the different types of fishing reels?

There are several types of fishing reels, including spinning reels, baitcasting reels, spincast reels, and fly reels. Each type is designed for specific fishing techniques and skill levels.

How do I use a fishing reel?

To use a fishing reel, first attach it securely to your fishing rod. Next, thread your fishing line through the guides on your rod and tie it to your reel using an arbor knot. Then, you can use the crank to wind the line onto the reel. When a fish bites, turn the handle to reel in your line.

How do I maintain and clean a fishing reel?

Regularly clean your reel by rinsing it with fresh water after use, especially in saltwater environments. Lubricate moving parts with reel oil and grease, and store it in a dry, cool place.

What are ball bearings in a fishing reel, and why are they important?

Ball bearings in a fishing reel reduce friction and provide smooth operation. More bearings generally mean smoother performance. Look for reels with high-quality bearings for better durability and efficiency.

What gear ratio should I look for in a fishing reel?

The gear ratio determines how quickly the reel retrieves the line. Lower ratios (e.g., 5:1) provide more power for fighting fish, while higher ratios (e.g., 7:1) allow for faster retrieves. Choose based on your fishing style.

Can I use any fishing reel in saltwater?

Not all fishing reels are suitable for saltwater. Saltwater can cause corrosion, so it's important to use a reel that is specifically designed for saltwater fishing. These reels are typically made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or aluminum.

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