Best Trolling Reels Leading the Market | Buyer’s Guide

Last updated on December 22nd, 2022 at 07:36 am

Spinning and baitcasting reels may be great, but nothing can beat trolling reels when it comes to fish from a moving boat. Trolling involves dragging a line behind a boat (sometimes with numerous baits), thus covering a large water area. 

Just like any other fishing technique, successful trolling depends upon two things. A perfect setup and plenty of experience. In this article, we will talk about the best trolling reels that will make your ideal fishing setup.

This article will cover all the details of enlisted products, pros and cons, specialties, and specifications. But before we do that, let’s find out how trolling reels are different from other types. 

How is Trolling Reel Different?

As I’ve mentioned earlier, trolling reels are different from spinning or baitcasting reels. That’s because they are built for a specific purpose, trolling. Traditional reels are not suitable for trolling. Trolling or conventional reels are designed to drag the fishing line from a moving boat. 

These reels are designed to catch deep sea fish in both fresh and saltwater. Trolling reels have a different structure. They have a rounded shape for containing more fishing lines because trolling requires more lines than any other technique. 

Just like baitcasters, trolling reels are also installed on top of the rod, but they are different from baitcasting reels in many ways. Three functions combine all trolling reels; star drag, line out the alarm, and lever. These reels allow you to fish over a greater distance than any other reel type. 

Trolling reels also contain stronger drag and more line capacities. Moreover, they feature reel counter capabilities to assist with releasing lines in open sea. Trolling reels are universal in terms of lines, meaning you can use any line that suits your conditions. Even more, these reels allow you to use several types of lures. 

However, there are a few downsides. Trolling reels are generally more expensive and difficult to use than traditional reels.

Our Top 3 Picks of Best Trolling Reels

Best Trolling Reels at a Glance

IMAGE	PRODUCT	SHOP
Penn Squall	Penn Squall Levelwind Trolling Reel Benefits: Lightweight and Durable, High-quality gears, 2+1 ball bearings, Guarantees smooth performance, Powerful, One of the best trolling reels for salmon, Handle length can be adjustable, Corrosion-resistant	Shop Here
Okuma Magda	Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Trolling Reel Benefits: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, Self-lubricating gear system, Machined cut brass gears, Durable and long-lasting, Affordable, Multi-disc carbonite drag system, One of the best saltwater trolling reels	Shop Here
Shimano Tekota	Shimano Tekota Line Counter Trolling Reel Benefits: Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater, Forged aluminum frame, side plates, and spool, Smooth performance, Powerful reel, Durable and robust, One of the best trolling reels with line counter	Shop Here
Daiwa Accudepth	Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B Trolling Reel Benefits: Strong frame, Lightweight, Durable and long-lasting product, Smooth and wonderful performance, Ball bearing system , Powerful drag, One of the best trolling reels for walleye	Shop Here
Okuma Cold Water	Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel Benefits: Multi-disc drag system is impressive, Lightweight but robust, Anti-reverse roller bearings, One of the most durable trolling reels, Quality Star drag system, Smooth performance, Compact and stable, Corrosion-resistant, Suitable price, One of the best trolling reels with line counter	Shop Here
Penn Warfare	Penn Warfare Level Wind Trolling Reel Benefits: Strong construction, Lightweight trolling reel, Corrosion-resistant, The brilliant HT-100 drag system, Affordable, Smooth performance	Shop Here
Shimano Torium	Shimano Torium SW Saltwater Trolling Reel Benefits: Strong and robust, Long-lasting, Powerful and smooth drag, 3+1 ball bearings, Available in three different speed models, CF aluminum forge cold spool, One of the best trolling reels for saltwater, One of the best trolling reels for the money	Shop Here
Kastking Rekon	Kastking Rekon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel Benefits: Trolling plus jigging reel, Tons of line capacity, One of the best trolling reels for the money, 3+1 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings for smooth performance, Quality gears for durability, Strong and lightweight, Affordable, Powerful	Shop Here
International VISX	Penn International VISX 2 Speed Trolling Reel Benefits: Strong aluminum construction, Powerful and smooth drag, Quick shift system provides you the upper hand in a fight, Durable and long-lasting, One of the best of its kind	Shop Here
Daiwa LEXA	Daiwa LEXA Line Counter Fishing Reel Benefits: Compact construction, Aluminum frame and side plates, Smooth and fast, Amazing drag system, Powerful enough to tackle walleye easily, Dual anti-reverse, 6+1 ball bearings	Shop Here
Convector Star	Okuma Convector Star Drag Level Wind Trolling Reel Benefits: Strong construction, Super-strong and stable spool, One of the most durable trolling reel, Smooth performance, Ergo grip handle, Comfortable in hand, Powerful drag	Shop Here

11 Best Trolling Reels of 2023

The new 2023 modern market is offering lots of trolling reels. We have got hundreds of options available, which makes choosing very difficult for newbies and experienced anglers. But you don’t have to worry about that. This article will guide you about a few of the best trolling reels so you can select a suitable option for yourself.

1. Penn Squall Levelwind Trolling Reel

As we all know, Penn is undoubtedly the best fishing reel brand in the world, and that is for an excellent reason. They supply the best fishing reels in the market. Penn Squall Levelwind is one of the fine examples of the company’s devotion towards customer satisfaction. It is one of the best trolling reels. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Penn Squall Levelwind trolling reel comes with a very lightweight graphite frame and side plates. It is also durable and corrosion-resistant. 

Spool: This great trolling reel also offers a forged aluminum spool that features line capacity rings to guide you about the remaining line. 

Gears: Penn Squall Levelwind features stainless steel gears which are more vital than bronze. These gears are ideal for a smooth fishing experience. 

Drag System: This reel also comes with a fantastic HT-100 carbon fiber drag system that keeps the reel cool and smooth under some challenging circumstances. 

Ball Bearings: Another reason for this reel’s excellent durability is its 2+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings. It also features an anti-reverse setting that keeps the line from slipping. 

Bottom Line: Penn Squall Levelwind is a high-quality reel for everyone. It is one of the best trolling reels for salmon, walleye, and other sea fishing. It’s the best out of bests, and I highly recommend it. 

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2. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Trolling Reel

The second product on our list is the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter trolling reel. This reel is best for harsh saltwater actions. Just like saltwater spinning reels, Magda Pro is also loaded with lots of features at a reasonable price. It is considered one of the best saltwater trolling reels because it satisfied many anglers around the globe. Let’s find out more about this reel.

Features that We Like:

Lightweight: Okuma Magda Pro is made using the highest quality materials. It is a lightweight trolling reel with a corrosion-resistant frame and side plates. 

Spool: The best saltwater trolling reel comes with a graphite spool which is also corrosion-resistant. 

Gears: All models of Okuma Magda Pro feature a self-lubricating gear system with machine-cut brass gears to make the reel more durable. 

Drag System: This brilliant saltwater reel offers a multi-disc carbonite drag system. It is not better than Dura-drag, but it works fine. This drag system makes the reel smooth and fast. 

Ball Bearings: For making the reel really smooth and steady, Okuma installed 2 stainless steel ball bearings in Magda pro. These bearings also make the reel more durable. 

Line Counter: Okuma Magda Pro comes with a mechanical line counter installed, which measures in feet. It also has a line counter screw port for improved air access. 

Bottom Line: I’ve been recommending this trolling reel for years, and I still do it because nothing can rise to Okuma Magda Pro’s level. It is an ideal choice for trolling. Okuma Magda Pro is undoubtedly one of the best saltwater trolling reels. 

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3. Shimano Tekota Line Counter Trolling Reel

Shimano Tekota Line Counter trolling reel is everything an angler would desire. It is a masterpiece and deserves to be in the top three. Shimano Tekota is one of the best Shimano trolling reels. Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at one of the best trolling reels with line counter. 

Features that We Like:

Frame and Side Plates: Shimano Tekota is one of the most solid trolling reels around the globe. It features an anodized aluminum frame and side plates that make the reel super strong. 

Spool and Level Wind: This amazingly created reel comes with a forged aluminum spool to increase strength and durability. It also features a non-disengaging level wind system that guides the line back to the spool. 

Bearings: Shimano Tekota features 3+1 stainless steel ball bearings for smooth and steady performance with extra durability and strength. 

Drag System: Tekota Line Counter trolling reel comes with dartainium drag system. It is easy to use and provides a smoother fishing experience. 

Preferable Environment: The best thing about Shimano Tekota is it is suitable for both fresh and saltwater. Its features make the reel well suited for both jobs. 

Bottom Line: Shimano has done a fantastic job. 90 out of 100 anglers approve the Tekota Line Counter trolling reel. It is also considered as one of the best Shimano trolling reels and deserves to be on third. 

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4. Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B Trolling Reel

Next on our list is Daiwa’s excellent line counter trolling reel, Accudepth Plus-B. The company claims to be providing the most delicate line counter in accudepth plus-b. The best thing about this product is its price. Accudepth Plus-B delivers everything at a very reasonable cost. It’s also one of the best trolling reels for walleye. 

Features that We Like: 

Frame: Strong frame is the key to durability and good performance. Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B features a One-piece composite frame that is strong and durable.

Spool and Line Counter: This fantastic trolling reel features a lightweight and robust aluminum spool that is big enough to hold lots of fishing line. The reel also features one of the best line counters that measure in feet. 

Gears: To increase the product’s durability, Daiwa installed machined cut brass gears in Accudepth Plus-B. These gears also guarantee the smooth workings of the reel. 

Drag System: Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B features a beautiful smooth Teflon impregnated felt drag. People do argue about it, but it works fine. 

Ball Bearings: We all want our reel to work smoothly and steadily. Daiwa also covered this section by installing one bearing system. It makes the reel more smooth and steady than its competitors. 

Best Trolling Reel for Walleye: Daiwa Accudepth Plus-B is specially designed for targeting walleye. It is probably one of the best trolling reels for walleye. If you’re targeting this notorious fish, then you must give Accudepth Plus-B a chance. 

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5. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel

Next on our list is Okuma Cold Water Linecounter trolling reel. It is undoubtedly one of the most fantastic bargains. It is also rated as the best equipment among seasonal anglers. Let’s get on with the details.  

Features that We Like: 

Frame: Just like any other top trolling reel, Okuma Cold Water features a lightweight graphite frame and side plates. Its corrosion resistance also makes the reel suitable for saltwater duty. 

Spool and Line Counter: Okuma Cold Water features a strong and durable machined aluminum spool with a line counter that measures in feet. This reel’s line counter has a clear view of technology that prevents fogging. 

Gears: The reel features a unique self-lubricating gearing system that has an excellent capacity to reduce friction. It also features machined brass gears for longer reel life.

Drag: One of the best things about Okuma Cold Water is its drag. It comes with a carbonated multi-disc drag system which is not so common at this price range. It allows anglers to have a smooth fishing experience. 

Ball Bearings: For increasing the smoothness and durability of the reel, Okuma Cold Water features 2+1 stainless ball bearings. It also comes with anti-reverse roller bearings, which prevent backward playing. 

Bottom Line: As I mentioned before, Okuma Cold Water is a really fantastic bargain. It also features an aluminum handle, a speedy lock pinion gear system, and an automatic trip. You’ll get all these at a very suitable price, and I highly recommend it to both saltwater and freshwater anglers. 

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6. Penn Warfare Level Wind Trolling Reel

We can all agree about Penn being the best manufacturer of fishing reels. The company has been providing quality to anglers in many ways. Their reels are pretty remarkable. One of their brilliant products is the Penn Warfare level wind trolling reel. It’s been providing value to its customers and deserves to be on our list. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Penn Warfare level wind is a lightweight trolling reel due to its graphite frame and side plates. This material also makes the reel corrosion-resistant and suitable for saltwater action. 

Spool: Penn Warfare features a braid ready machined aluminum spool. This spool holds lots of lines and offers smooth performance. It also features line capacity reels for extra value. 

Gears: Quality gears are essential for a reel’s long life. Penn reels are famous for their durability. Even their Warfare trolling reel comes with machined brass pinion and main drive gears for better performance and durability. 

Drag: Penn Warfare Level Wind trolling reel works smoothly due to its brilliant HT-100 carbon fiber drag system. It makes the reel suitable and untouchable for competitors. 

Ball Bearings: For offering a smoother experience and durability, Penn installed shielded stainless steel ball bearings. These ensure smooth performance along with extra durability. Penn Warfare Level Wind also features instant anti-reverse. 

Bottom Line: Warfare Level Wind trolling reel is everybody’s desire. It features almost everything. Some extra features include line counter options, star drag option, and oversized fighting handle. All of this comes at a very suitable price. It also has the ability to go after the big fish and work deep water. In short, it’s a fantastic product. 

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7. Shimano Torium SW Saltwater Trolling Reel

Here comes one of the best saltwater trolling reels available in the market. The Shimano torium SW Saltwater is specially designed for trolling in saltwater. It is one of the most durable saltwater reels of 2023. Let’s find out more about this fantastic reel. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Shimano Torium SW Saltwater trolling reel comes with a Hagane body, a strong metal body with high rigidity. The reel is also lightweight and well suitable for multiple environments. 

Spool: This excellent saltwater reel features CF aluminum cold forge spool, making the reel more durable and long-lasting. It also increases the smoothness and strength of the reel. 

Gears: Shimano Torium comes in three speed models with three different gear ratios. Small-speed, medium-speed, and high-speed. If you are after small fish, then buy a high speed model and vice versa. 

Drag: This reel features an amazing and powerful drag system. It comes with cross carbon drag which makes fishing more effortless than before. It is also good enough for fighting large saltwater species. 

Ball Bearings: Shimano Torium SW Saltwater trolling reel features 3+1 stainless steel ball bearings for smoothness and durability of the reel. In fact, it is one of the smoothest saltwater trolling reels. 

Bottom Line: Overall, Shimano Torium SW is one of the best saltwater trolling reels. It is smooth, fast, and durable. Shimano Torium SW Saltwater Stardrag Multiplier reel offers excellent value for money. It is undoubtedly one of the best trolling reels for the money. 

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8. Kastking Rekon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel

Kastking Rekon is a very high-quality trolling reel. The best thing about this reel is that you can also use it as a jigging reel. Two in one option. It also has a comparatively longer life than its competitors in the same price range. The reel is also affordable and thus everyone’s favorite. 

Features that We Like: 

Frame: Kastking Rekon features a robust and lightweight graphite frame which makes the reel comfortable in hand and corrosion-resistant. The reel is built strong and can withstand most of the challenging environments. 

Line Capacity: This brilliant trolling reel has tons of line capacity despite being extremely compact so that you don’t have to worry about it. 

Gears: Kastking Rekon Line Counter trolling reel features Japanese precision machined brass main gear and a stainless steel pinion gear with machined brass worm shafts and stainless steel guide shafts for making the reel powerful. 

Drag: As expected from Kastking products, this fantastic trolling reel features a powerful triple carbon drag system which is insane at this price range. It’s even better than trolling reels with double the price of Rekon. 

Ball Bearings: For providing smooth performance, Kastking Rekon features 3+1 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. It not only makes the reel smooth but also durable and perfect for saltwater action. 

Bottom Line: Kastking Rekon is undoubtedly one of the best trolling reels for the money. It’s an affordable product loaded with lots of unique features. It is the future of trolling reels. Kastking Rekon is suitable for both fresh and saltwater. If you need a decent low-range product, then I recommend Kastking Rekon. 

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9. Penn International VISX 2 Speed Trolling Reel

The next stop on our list is Penn International VISX 2 speed trolling reel. This reel took the market by surprise. It’s mighty. With this reel in your hand, you can target whatever species you want. Penn International VISX 2 speed is a heavy-duty trolling reel. Let’s find out more about it. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Penn International VISX 2 Speed trolling reel features excellent construction. It comes with machined and anodized aircraft grade aluminum frame and side plates. This feature makes the reel durable, lightweight, and comfortable in hand. 

Line Capacity Rings: This reel comes with line capacity rings designed on the inside walls of the spool. These lines give you an indication of how much line remains. It will also notify you about the re-spool. 

Gears: Penn International VISX 2 speed has a huge gear train. It features extra-large stainless steel gears (both pinion and main) for more durability and better reel performance.

Lever Drag: All Penn International models are loaded with the Dura-drag system. It’s considered one of the most potent and finest drags of all. It is specially designed for targeting saltwater species.  

Ball Bearings: This giant reel comes with 5 ball bearings, made with quality materials to add more durability. Their job is to ensure smoother performance. These are also 

Quick Shift System: Penn International VISX offers a two-speed system. This option retrieves the line quickly in high gear, then drops to low gear when fighting a powerful fish. It provides an incredible advantage over the fish. 

Bottom Line: Penn International VISX 2 speed trolling reel is a workhorse. It features robust construction, powerful drag, and much more to target large species. Once switching to Penn International may result in becoming Penn’s loyal customer. 

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10. Daiwa LEXA Line Counter Fishing Reel

Daiwa Lexa LC is one of the most popular products of this category and is considered one of the best trolling reels with line counter. Moreover, this reel can be spotted on many of the charter boats. It is also one of the best fishing reels for walleye. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Daiwa Lexa LC features a strong aluminum frame and side plates. This material not only makes the reel lightweight but also corrosion-resistant. 

Spool: Lexa LC also features an aluminum spool. It makes the reel balanced and comfortable in hand. It also makes the reel durable and long-lasting. The spool itself is smooth and offers easy retrieval. 

Gears: This brilliant trolling reel comes with quality gears that help the reel fighting notorious species like walleye. It features a 5.5:1 gear ratio which is okay with me. 

Drag: Most essential feature of any reel is its drag. It describes the reel’s power and smoothness. Luckily, Daiwa Lexa LC features a fantastic Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag, powerful and smooth.

Ball Bearings: This is where Daiwa Lexa LC shines. Surprisingly, this reel features 6+1 ball bearings for better performance. It also features an infinite dual anti-reverse. 

Line Counter: Daiwa Lexa is a Line Counter reel. This Line counter tracks your trolling pattern and gets you into the strike zone. 

Bottom Line: Daiwa Lexa is one of the best trolling reels for walleye. It features everything an angler would like to target the notorious species. On top of that, its low-profile design fits nicely on the rod. It’s a remarkable product at a sensible price. 

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11. Okuma Convector Star Drag Level Wind Trolling Reel

Last stop on our list is the Okuma convector, a powerful mid-range trolling reel. This fantastic product is one of the most durable of its kind. It is loaded with lots of features and makes trolling easy. Okuma Convector is also one of the best fishing reels you can find in 2023. 

Features that We Like:

Frame: Okuma Convector has a solid aluminum frame which makes the reel lightweight and durable. The side plates of Convector are also made with aluminum. 

Spool: This reel features a very strong machined aluminum, gun smoke anodized spool, which is incredible. It increases the reel’s strength and durability.

Gears: Okuma Convector does not compromise durability. It features durable high-grade brass pinion and main gears. It also features a speed lock pinion along with a self-lubricating gear system for better performance under pressure. 

Drag: As mentioned before, drag is an essential feature of any reel, and Okuma never disappoints us about vital features. The Convector Level Wind trolling reel features a multi-disc carbonate drag system with a ratcheting drag star for excellent drag settings. 

Ball Bearings: This brilliant Okuma reel offers 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings drive for better durability and performance of the reel. It also features a quick set anti-reverse roller bearing. 

MSS: Okuma took durability to the next level by installing MSS. The Mechanical Stabilizing System increases the Convector’s durability and makes it untouchable. It is undoubtedly one of the best.

Bottom Line: Okuma Convector Level Wind trolling reel is an excellent value for money product. It features almost everything at a meager price. Moreover, its durability makes the reel far better than its competitors. It is one of my favorite reels, and I will highly recommend it. 

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Features to Consider Before Buying Trolling Reels – Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

As I mentioned earlier, there are three basic features of trolling reels, namely star drag, release lever, and line out an alarm. These are also common to all trolling reels in the world. However, there are several more features to consider before paying for a trolling reel. The following part of this article will help you choose the best trolling reel available. Let’s begin. 

Materials:

Trolling reels are constructed by many materials nowadays, but the most common are machined aluminum, cast aluminum, and graphite. Graphite reels are lightweight and cost less. On the other hand, aluminum reels are more durable. Choose the material that is convenient to you. 

Drag: 

The drag system of the reel provides you the control for handling fish. A better drag system means smooth control. Multi-disc drag with star drag adjustment is my recommendation for you. 

Clicker: 

The clicker in trolling reels notify you when the line ends. It’s a kind of warning. The clicker must be loud and clear so that you can hear it through the noise of boats and fellow fishermen. 

Line Capacity: 

The line capacity of your trolling must be enormous. Trolling requires more line, especially in the saltwater. However, the spending line mainly depends upon the situation. If you’re fishing for a species that can strip the spool, then even in the freshwater, you need a large line capacity. So choose the reel which can carry as much line as you want. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is trolling and baitcasting reel the same?

No, they are not the same. The main difference is you can not cast a line with a trolling reel as you do with baitcasters. You just drop the line smoothly into the water to cover depth, not distance. 

How far behind the boat should I troll?

Proper distance for most boats is anywhere between 20 feet to 140 feet behind the boat.

What lures to use for trolling?

Both artificial and natural baits are acceptable for the job. However, natural baits are better.

What is the best line for trolling? 

Monofilament lines are the best line for trolling in most situations. Braided lines can also get the job done. 

What is the best speed for trolling for walleye?

The best trolling speed for walleye is from 0.5 to 1 mph. Faster than this may result in catching nothing.

Summing Up

Trolling technique is very interesting and different from others. But just like every other technique, you need experience and good fishing gear for successful trolling. In this article, we listed the best trolling reels that are leading the market so that you don’t have to waste time. Carefully read the reviews and choose whatever suits your conditions. If there’s something else related to these reels that you want to share, comment below. We would love to hear from our readers. Best of luck with your trolling.