Ever felt the tug of a truly massive fish, only to have your regular reel surrender? That's where trolling fishing reels come in. Built for the serious angler, these powerful reels, perfect for deep sea fishing and trolling lures, handle the brutal strength of big game fish with ease. Their robust construction and smooth drag systems mean you'll land that trophy—whether it's a marlin, tuna, or even a stubborn king salmon. Experience the thrill of the fight, not the frustration of a broken reel.
Providing a list of top-rated items helps consumers navigate the wide array of options available. Careful consideration of several key factors ensures that recommended products meet high standards of performance and quality, leading to a satisfying purchase experience for the end-user. This selection process saves time and effort in the search for the perfect item.
1. KastKing ReKon: Powerful saltwater baitcasting reel (up to 30 lbs drag).
Smooth, durable, great value; line counter sometimes unreliable.
- Highly rated
- Build quality
- Value for money
- Reel quality
- Functionality
- Smooth operation
- Look
- Size
- Some controversy about
- Accuracy
Introducing the KastKing ReKon Round Baitcasting Reel, a powerhouse for saltwater inshore surf trolling and freshwater conquests of catfish, musky, and bass. This durable graphite frame reel boasts a powerful max drag of up to 30lbs (25lbs for size 10), ensuring you're equipped to handle even the largest fish. Available in sizes 10, 20, and 30, the ReKon features a smooth carbon fiber drag system, a precise line counter (line counter models), and ergonomic handles—a double paddle for smaller sizes and a single power handle for larger models. Its high line capacity accommodates leadcore, braid, or monofilament, making it ideal for various fishing techniques, from trolling with planer boards to bottom fishing. Complement your ReKon reel with a KastKing fishing rod from their Spartacus II or Crixus series for a complete setup.
The KastKing ReKon 20/30 Line Counter Reel consistently impresses with its smooth operation, solid construction, and exceptional value. Anglers praise the reel's beautiful design and the hefty feel of the large handle (a particular plus on the size 30 model). The line counter, while needing occasional calibration checks, generally provides accurate readings sufficient for most fishing needs. Many users highlight the superior drag system compared to other KastKing reels like the Rover. The durable graphite frame keeps the reel lightweight despite its robust build, perfect for various fishing techniques from trolling Kokanee to jigging. The reel's compatibility with KastKing Hammer 9 braid is another noteworthy advantage. While some users experienced initial line counter issues, KastKing's customer service swiftly addressed these concerns with prompt replacements or refunds, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction. The overwhelmingly positive feedback points to a high-quality reel, providing excellent performance for its price point and backed by a reliable one-year warranty. Ultimately, the KastKing ReKon offers a compelling blend of features, durability, and exceptional value.
- Brand: KastKing
- Color: A: Line Counter- Size10- Right Hand
- Manufacturer: KastKing
- Material: Graphite
- Size: Size10 - Right Hand
- Style: A: Line Counter- Size10- Right Handed
- Weight: 1.2 Pounds
- Rate: 4.2 / 663
- Powerful Max Drag (up to 30 lbs)
- Durable Graphite Frame
- Line Counter
- Saltwater inshore fishing
- Surf trolling
- Catfish fishing
2. Okuma Cold Water Line Counter Trolling Reel
Smooth, durable, and reliable for serious trolling.
- Highly rated
- Reel quality
- Quality
- Functionality
- Value for money
- Build quality
- Trolling depth
- Accuracy
- Some controversy about
- Drag
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel, available in both left and right-hand retrieve models (CW-153D, CW-153DLX, etc.), is built for serious anglers targeting salmon, steelhead, and walleye. Its robust design features a powerful, multi-disc carbonite drag system and a durable MSS (Mechanical Stabilizing System) for reliable performance. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant side plates and frame ensure longevity, even in demanding cold-water environments. The reel boasts self-lubricating gearing, a speed lock pinion gear system, and 2BB+1RB stainless steel bearings for smooth operation. Precision is guaranteed with its racheting star drag, while the line counter allows for accurate depth control. This premium reel offers exceptional value and reliability for the discerning angler.
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is a top-tier choice for anglers seeking a robust and reliable reel for freshwater and saltwater trolling. Users consistently praise its smooth drag system, perfect for battling large fish like Chinook salmon, coho, steelhead, and even sturgeon (as reported by one user who successfully landed a 10-foot specimen!). The precise line counter is invaluable for consistently reaching target depths, a crucial feature for successful trolling. The reel's build quality is exceptional, featuring a corrosion-resistant frame and lightweight yet durable construction. Anglers appreciate the large, easy-to-read line counter, the smooth and sensitive star drag, and the comfortable, oversized winding knob. Many users highlight the reel's superior performance compared to other brands, including some higher-priced models, emphasizing its excellent value. While some minor issues like a slightly noisy gear or a potentially sticky reset button were mentioned, these were generally considered insignificant compared to the reel's overall performance and durability. The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is a dependable and high-performing addition to any angler's arsenal, whether fishing the Columbia River, Buoy 10, or the Great Lakes. Its smooth operation, precise line control, and robust construction make it a standout choice for both casual and serious trolling enthusiasts.
- Brand: Okuma Fishing Tackle
- Color: Multi
- Dimensions: 8"L x 4.5"W x 4.5"H
- Manufacturer: Okuma Fishing Tackle Corp.
- Material: Aluminum, Stainless Steel
- Size: One Size
- Style: Cw-453d: 430 Yds-25lb
- Weight: 617 Grams
- Rate: 4.5 / 1994
- Multi-disc carbonite drag system
- Lightweight corrosion-resistant frame and sideplates
- Line counter
- Salmon fishing
- Steelhead fishing
- Trolling for walleye
3. Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcaster: Powerful saltwater & freshwater reel.
Surprisingly durable, smooth casting, great value for money.
- Highly rated
- Build quality
- Value for money
- Smooth casting
- Functionality
- Look
- Cast quality
- Some controversy about
- Noise level
- Clicker quality
The Piscifun Chaos XS baitcasting reel is a powerhouse for serious anglers targeting large saltwater species like catfish, musky, bass, and pike. Its reinforced metal body and CNC concave aluminum spool, combined with a smooth, powerful 6+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearing system, ensures effortless operation even when battling trophy fish. A sensitive clicker alarm provides instant hook-up alerts, while the innovative cast technology, featuring a centrifugal brake, delivers superior casting distance and reduces backlash. The comfortable thumb bar and oversized rubber grips enhance control, and the high-performance carbon fiber drag system offers up to 22 pounds of stopping power (depending on model – 40, 50, or 60). Perfect for inshore surf trolling and other demanding fishing techniques, the Chaos XS is built for durability and long-lasting performance.
The Piscifun Chaos 60 baitcasting reel consistently impresses anglers, delivering exceptional performance at a remarkable value. Users praise its smooth operation, long casting distance (especially with 30lb mono), and strong drag system, even when battling sizable fish (up to 100lbs in some cases!). Multiple users, including professional fishing guides targeting blue catfish and paddlefish, highlight the reel's durability, with many reporting consistent use over extended periods without significant issues. While some users note minor drawbacks like a quiet clicker or occasional early wear with very frequent use, the overwhelming consensus points to the Piscifun Chaos 60 as a top performer for its price point. Its suitability for beginners and experienced anglers alike, coupled with its compatibility with various rods (such as Hellcat and Big Cat Fever rods), makes it a versatile and reliable choice for various fishing applications. The carbon drag and excellent levelwind system further enhance its functionality. Although some users mention needing to lubricate the reel upon arrival, the positive feedback significantly outweighs any concerns.
- Brand: Piscifun
- Color: Blue
- Dimensions: 5.6"L x 4.2"W x 2.9"H
- Manufacturer: Piscifun
- Material: Aluminum
- Style: 40 Right Hand Retrieve
- Weight: 11 Ounces
- Rate: 4.6 / 2401
- Smooth and Powerful Performance: 6+1 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings and a premium carbon fiber drag system provide smooth operation and up to 22 pounds of drag.
- Innovative Cast Technology: Centrifugal brake system enables longer casting distances and reduces backlash.
- Durable All-Metal Construction: 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum frame and CNC concave aluminum spool offer lightweight strength and durability.
- Saltwater inshore fishing
- Catfish fishing
- Bass fishing
4. Okuma Magda Pro: Levelwind Trolling Reel with Line Counter
Exceptional value, reliable performance, and great for trolling.
- Highly rated
- Works well
- Value for money
- Reel quality
- Build quality
- Drag
- Trolling ability
- Some controversy about
- Accuracy
- Size
The Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel is a top-of-the-line fishing reel perfect for serious anglers. Its lightweight yet durable corrosion-resistant frame and side plates, built with high-quality stainless steel components including two ball bearings and a stainless steel levelwind line guide, ensure smooth operation and long-lasting performance. This reel boasts a line counter for precise depth control, crucial for trolling techniques, and holds an impressive 210 yards of 20-pound test line. Backed by Okuma Fishing's reputation for quality and affordability, the Magda Pro is a reliable choice used by professionals worldwide, making it ideal for targeting a wide variety of game fish.
The Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel consistently receives high praise for its exceptional value. Users repeatedly highlight its smooth operation, reliable drag system (described as sensitive and easy to use, comparable to higher-end Shimano reels), and incredibly useful line counter, crucial for precise trolling techniques like creating a "wall of death" for increased fish strikes. Anglers successfully utilize this reel for various species, including trout, kokanee, steelhead, walleye, lake trout, salmon, catfish, grouper, red drum, cobia, mahi-mahi, and red snapper, across diverse fishing locations such as lakes, rivers (including the Mississippi and James Rivers), and oceans. Many users emphasize that the reel's performance rivals those costing three to four times more. While some minor issues with the line counter's initial operation or the durability of plastic components are mentioned, these are often resolved and ultimately deemed insignificant compared to the reel's overall performance and affordability. The Okuma Magda Pro, particularly the MA-15DX model, frequently paired with rods like the Eagle Claw Featherlight Kokanee, is considered a top choice for both seasoned and budget-conscious anglers. Long-term use reports even after five years showcase its lasting quality, making the Okuma Magda Pro a truly compelling choice for trolling enthusiasts.
- Brand: OKUMA
- Color: Black/Silver
- Dimensions: 6.7"L x 4.5"W x 4"H
- Manufacturer: Okuma Fishing Tackle Corp.
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Size: Small
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Rate: 4.5 / 2094
- Line Counter
- Lightweight Corrosion Resistant Frame
- Stainless Steel Levelwind Line Guide
- Deep-sea trolling
- Offshore big-game fishing
- Saltwater trolling
5. Piscifun Salis X: Saltwater Baitcasting Reel, 37lb Drag, 6.2:1 Gear Ratio
Smooth, powerful, and surprisingly affordable trolling reel.
- Highly rated
- Value for money
- Build quality
- Line retrieval
- Look
- Size
- Smoothness
- Some controversy about
- Reliability
- Drag control
Conquer the deep with the Piscifun Salis X Baitcasting Fishing Reel, a powerhouse designed for serious saltwater anglers targeting big game. This round level wind trolling reel boasts a robust 6.2:1 gear ratio and a staggering 37 lbs max drag, effortlessly handling even the strongest fighters. Its graphite frame keeps it lightweight, while the stainless-steel bearings and oversized gears ensure exceptional durability. The braid-ready super-wide spool, along with the three stainless steel bushing supported line winding system, provides smooth, even line lay and eliminates the need for backing. Featuring a line cast alarm system and an instant engage/disengage switch, the Salis X offers superior control and an unparalleled fishing experience. This reel, perfect for jigging and bottom fishing, is your ultimate weapon against the monsters of the deep.
The Piscifun Salis X 3000 trolling reel, a powerhouse boasting a 6:1 gear ratio and a surprisingly smooth operation for its size (between a 4/0 and 6/0), consistently impressed users. Its robust construction, evident in its hefty weight and large size, is complemented by a loud, reliable clicker – perfect for eliminating the need for shark alarms. Many users lauded the reel's exceptional value, noting its high-quality feel and performance exceeding expectations, even compared to more expensive brands like Shimano. The reel's impressive speed and strong drag were repeatedly highlighted, enabling users to quickly land large fish, like sharks and snapper, with ease. One user even successfully cast a weighted line an impressive 60 feet! While some users experienced issues with plastic gears, these were resolved promptly through the company's customer service, highlighting their commitment to satisfaction. The included tool and smooth lever drag further enhance the user experience. The Piscifun Salis X 3000 is a versatile reel ideal for various fishing applications, from trolling on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario to targeting striped bass, hybrid wiper, and catfish. Its superior performance and exceptional value make it a standout choice for anglers seeking a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-use trolling reel.
- Brand: Piscifun
- Dimensions: 8.4"L x 6"W x 4.5"H
- Manufacturer: Piscifun
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 5000
- Style: 5000 - Right Hand Retrieve
- Weight: 35.6 Ounces
- Rate: 4.4 / 562
- 37lbs Max Drag
- 6.2:1 Gear Ratio for Fast Retrieval
- Braid-Ready Spool for Easy Line Setup
- Offshore big game fishing
- Saltwater trolling
- Heavy-duty inshore saltwater fishing