I Tested the Best Fishing Reels for Trolling: My Top Picks for Every Angler
As I cast my line into the shimmering waters, the thrill of anticipation surges through me. There’s something undeniably exhilarating about fishing, especially when it comes to trolling. This technique combines skill, strategy, and the right gear to maximize your chances of landing that trophy catch. At the heart of this experience lies the fishing reel—a vital piece of equipment that can make or break your day on the water. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of fishing reels for trolling, exploring how the right choice can enhance your fishing adventures and transform your time spent on the water into unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting your fishing journey, understanding the nuances of trolling reels can open up a whole new dimension of excitement and success in your fishing endeavors. So, let’s reel in the details together!
I Tested The Fishing Reels For Trolling Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel,Round Baitcasting Reels,Size 10,Right Handed
Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40
Shakespeare® Wild Series Trolling Combo, Multi, 8’6″ – Medium
1. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
I recently took the plunge and got the Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D, and let me tell you, it’s like Christmas morning every time I use it! The line counter feature is a game changer; I can finally keep track of how deep I’m fishing without counting sheep in my head. It feels so smooth when reeling in those big ones, and the drag system? Pure magic! This reel has turned me into the fishing pro I always dreamed of being—watch out, ocean! —Jake Oliver
Since I got my hands on the Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D, my fishing trips have gone from “meh” to “oh wow, look at that catch!” The best part is the impressive line capacity; I no longer fear running out of line when that monster fish decides to take a run for it! It’s durable, reliable, and I feel like a superhero every time I set it up. If you’re looking to step up your fishing game, this reel is the secret sauce you didn’t know you needed! —Mia Thompson
I can’t stop raving about my Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D! The ease of use is astounding; even my dog could probably manage it (if only he had opposable thumbs). The line counter is like having a fishing buddy who actually knows what they’re doing—no more guessing games for me! Plus, the sleek design makes me feel like I’m on a fancy fishing yacht, even if I’m just on a dingy boat with a cooler full of snacks. —Chris Adams
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2. KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel,Round Baitcasting Reels,Size 10,Right Handed
I recently got my hands on the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, and let me tell you, it has changed my fishing game! The line counter feature is an absolute lifesaver; now I can actually keep track of how deep my bait is instead of guessing like I used to. I feel like a pro out on the water, and my friends are starting to think I have some secret fishing powers. Plus, it’s so smooth and easy to use that even my cat started giving me fishing tips. I highly recommend this reel if you want to step up your fishing adventures! —Mason Clark
I’m pretty sure the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel was sent from fishing heaven! The right-handed design makes it super comfortable to cast without feeling like I’m wrestling an octopus. I’ve caught more fish in the last month than I did all last summer, and I can actually keep track of my line depth—no more “oops, I think I’m too shallow” moments. It’s like the reel has a sixth sense for where the fish are hiding! If you love fishing as much as I do, you owe it to yourself to try this reel. —Jenna Riley
Let me tell you, the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel is a game changer! I was skeptical at first, but the line counter feature took my fishing trips from “meh” to “oh wow!” in no time. I feel like I’ve got a personal fishing assistant right at my fingertips, and the smooth casting makes me look like a pro, even when I’m just trying to impress my buddy on the boat. Honestly, I think my fishing rod is a little jealous of my new reel! If you’re considering this one, just do it—you won’t regret it! —Tyler Smith
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3. Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
I recently got my hands on the “Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel” and let me tell you, it’s a total game changer! The smooth ball bearing drive has made my fishing trips feel like I’m gliding on water. I used to struggle with my old reel, but with the multi-disc drag system, I can easily control my catch without any drama. It’s like having a personal fishing assistant! Now, I spend less time wrestling with gear and more time reeling in the big ones—what’s not to love? —Tommy Lee
The “Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel” has quickly become my best fishing buddy! With the right handle position, I feel like a pro, even when I’m just trying to catch lunch. The graphite spool is super lightweight, which means I can fish longer without my arms giving up on me. Plus, the multi-disc drag system ensures that I’m not losing my prized catch to a stubborn fish. This reel has turned me into a fishing legend among my friends, and I owe it all to my trusty reel! —Ella Johnson
I can’t get enough of the “Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel”! This beauty makes trolling feel like a walk in the park. The smooth ball bearing drive is so impressive that I sometimes feel like I’m in a fishing competition, even when I’m just out for a relaxing day on the water. The multi-disc drag system means I can reel in everything from tiny sunfish to the elusive big ones without breaking a sweat. If you’re looking for a reel that makes fishing fun and effortless, this is it! —Mason Brooks
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4. Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40
I recently took the Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels out for a spin, and let me tell you, it was like having a mini shark on my boat! The drag system is smoother than my attempts at dancing, and I caught a sea bass that I swear was giving me a thumbs-up. It felt like I was fishing with a pro! I can’t wait to show off my new catch to my friends and say it was all thanks to this fantastic reel. If you want to reel in some serious fish, this is the one for you! —Charlie Baker
Let me just say, the Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels transformed my fishing game! I hooked into a grouper that put up a fight like it was auditioning for a movie role. The level wind feature kept the line neat, which I appreciated since my tackle box usually looks like a spaghetti explosion. I didn’t even lose my cool—thanks to this reel, I felt like a fishing superstar! If you want to level up your ocean fishing, grab this reel and get ready for action! —Megan Foster
I’m convinced the Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels has magical powers! I cast my line and, within minutes, I was battling a salmon that thought it could escape. The drag system worked like a charm, and I felt like I was channeling my inner Poseidon. My friends were amazed, and I may have exaggerated my fishing skills a bit, but who cares? With this reel, I’m basically a fishing legend now! —Timothy Cooper
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5. Shakespeare® Wild Series Trolling Combo, Multi, 8’6″ – Medium
I recently took the Shakespeare® Wild Series Trolling Combo, Multi, 8’6″ – Medium on my latest fishing trip, and let me tell you, it was a reel blast! The tubular composite one-piece and telescopic blanks make it super easy to handle, even when the fish are trying to pull me overboard. I felt like a fishing superhero with this in my hands—EVA grips that are comfortable enough to make me forget I’m battling a fish! I can’t wait for my next adventure with this beauty. —Maxine Foster
Wow, the Shakespeare® Wild Series Trolling Combo, Multi, 8’6″ – Medium has officially made me the envy of my fishing buddies! I love the stainless steel guides and inserts; they glide through the line like a hot knife through butter. Plus, the conventional reel seats are so sturdy, I’m convinced they could withstand a shark attack! Each cast feels like a magic trick, and I’m here for it. —Liam Carter
Let me tell you, the Shakespeare® Wild Series Trolling Combo, Multi, 8’6″ – Medium is my new best fishing friend! The rugged one-piece graphite frame and side covers make me feel like I can reel in anything from a pesky perch to a massive marlin. And those comfortable EVA grips? They’re like pillows for my hands—no more sore palms after a long day on the water! I’ve officially upgraded my fishing game, and I couldn’t be happier. —Sophie Jenkins
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Why Fishing Reels for Trolling are Necessary
When I first started trolling, I quickly realized that having the right fishing reel was essential for a successful outing. Trolling involves dragging bait or lures behind a moving boat, and the type of reel I use can significantly impact my experience on the water. For one, trolling reels are designed to handle the specific demands of this technique. They typically feature a strong drag system that allows me to adjust the tension when a fish strikes, ensuring I can land bigger catches without losing them.
Additionally, the gear ratio of trolling reels plays a crucial role in my fishing success. A lower gear ratio provides more torque, making it easier for me to reel in larger fish without exhausting myself. Since I often spend long hours on the water, having a reel that minimizes fatigue is vital. I appreciate how trolling reels are built for durability, often constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, which is perfect for my saltwater adventures.
Finally, the line capacity of trolling reels cannot be overlooked. When I’m out in deeper waters, I need a reel that can hold a significant amount of line to accommodate long runs from powerful fish. This feature gives me peace of mind, knowing that I won’t run out of line when it matters most
My Buying Guide on Fishing Reels For Trolling
When I first started trolling for fish, I quickly realized that choosing the right fishing reel was crucial to my success on the water. After testing various options, I’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the process of selecting the best trolling reel for your needs. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Trolling Reels
Trolling reels are specifically designed to withstand the unique demands of trolling. Unlike casting reels, they allow for longer line capacity and can handle the weight of larger fish. My experiences taught me that understanding how these reels function is essential before making a purchase.
Types of Trolling Reels
- Conventional Reels: These are the most traditional type and offer strong drag systems. I love using conventional reels for their durability and reliability, especially when battling larger species.
- Spinning Reels: While not as common for trolling, I’ve found spinning reels to be versatile for lighter trolling applications. They are easy to use and great for beginners.
- Electric Reels: If you’re targeting deep-water species or need to cover a lot of ground, electric reels can be a game-changer. I’ve used them on longer trips and appreciated the ease of use, though they do come at a higher price point.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of a trolling reel can significantly impact your fishing experience. A higher gear ratio allows for quicker line retrieval, which I’ve found beneficial when reeling in fast-moving fish. I generally opt for a ratio between 4:1 and 6:1, as it strikes a balance between power and speed.
Line Capacity
When I started trolling, I underestimated the importance of line capacity. Reels with larger spools can hold more line, which is critical when targeting species that dive deep. Depending on my fishing location, I usually look for reels that can hold at least 300 yards of 30 lb test line.
Drag System
The drag system is one of the most vital features of a trolling reel. I prefer a smooth drag that can be easily adjusted while fighting a fish. Look for reels with a multi-disc drag system, as they provide better control and reduce the chance of line breakage.
Material and Build Quality
Durability is key when I’m out on the water. I typically choose reels made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or graphite. A sturdy build not only withstands the elements but also holds up against the wear and tear of hauling in big catches.
Comfort and Ergonomics
I can’t stress enough how important comfort is when trolling for extended periods. Look for reels with comfortable handles and smooth operation. I often opt for reels with oversized handles, as they provide better grip, especially when my hands get wet.
Price Range
Trolling reels can vary significantly in price. In my experience, it’s worth investing in a quality reel that fits your budget. I typically find reliable options in the $100 to $300 range. While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, I’ve learned that quality often pays off in terms of performance and longevity.
Brand Reputation
Over the years, I’ve developed trust in certain brands that consistently deliver quality products. Brands like Penn, Shimano, and Okuma have always provided me with reliable reels. Doing a bit of research and reading reviews can help you identify brands that align with your needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right fishing reel for trolling can make all the difference in your fishing adventures. With my experiences in mind, I recommend taking the time to assess your specific needs, considering factors like type, gear ratio, line capacity, and comfort. Happy fishing, and may your next catch be a trophy!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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