I have spent more seasons than I can count chasing salmon on the Great Lakes, pulling walleye from midwestern reservoirs, and battling tuna offshore. Through all those hours on the water, one lesson stands clear: the reel you clip to your rod makes or breaks the trip. That is why I put together this guide to the best trolling reels available right now.
Trolling reels are specialized conventional reels built to handle heavy line, sustained drag pressure, and big fish that run hard when they hit. Unlike a spinning reel or a baitcaster meant for casting, a trolling reel is designed to let line out behind a moving boat, hold steady at depth, and winch in whatever grabs your lure. Whether you are running downriggers for king salmon, wire-lining for striped bass, or chasing marlin in the Gulf Stream, having the right reel on the boat matters.
In this guide, our team breaks down 10 of the best trolling reels across every price range and fishing application. We cover budget-friendly line counter reels for walleye, mid-range level wind reels for salmon, and professional-grade lever drag reels for offshore big game. I also include a buying guide that addresses the questions anglers ask most on fishing forums like Reddit and The Hull Truth.
Top 3 Picks for Best Trolling Reels (July 2026)
Before diving into the full reviews, here are my top three picks. I chose these based on real-world performance, value for the money, and how well they serve different types of anglers.
Best Trolling Reels in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 10 reels in this guide. I organized them from most affordable to premium so you can scan the options at a glance.
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KastKing Rover Baitcasting Reel
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Okuma Magda Linecounter Reel
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Penn General Purpose Level Wind
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Okuma Cold Water Linecounter
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Okuma Coldwater Wireline High Speed
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Penn Squall II Level Wind
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Shimano Tekota A Trolling Reel
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Okuma Solterra SLX Lever Drag
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Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed
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Penn International VI
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1. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel - Best Budget Trolling Reel
KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel, Right Handed Fishing Reel,Rover40
6.2:1 Gear Ratio
20lb Max Drag
Level Wind
Carbon Fiber Drag System
Brass Gears
Pros
- Extremely affordable entry point
- Reinforced metal body feels solid
- Carbon fiber drag up to 15lb smooth
- Works for freshwater and saltwater
- 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings
Cons
- Handle knobs can loosen over time
- Some reports of spool tension issues
- May need minor tuning out of the box
I picked up the KastKing Rover a couple seasons back when I needed an extra trolling reel for a buddy trip on Lake Erie. At this price, I was not expecting much, but the Rover genuinely surprised me. The reinforced metal body has a solid heft to it, and the CNC machined spool runs true even under load.
The carbon fiber drag system with the cymbal washer setup delivers a surprisingly smooth 15 pounds of drag pressure. That is plenty for landing walleye, catfish, and even medium-sized striped bass. I trolled with this reel for three straight days on a salmon trip, and it never once felt like it was struggling.
The level wind mechanism works as advertised, distributing line evenly across the spool. That matters when you are letting out 200-plus yards of line behind a downrigger. The precision-cut brass gears give a satisfying, solid feel when cranking.
On the downside, I did notice the handle knobs can work loose after extended use. A few anglers on Reddit mentioned the same thing. A dab of thread lock solves it permanently. Some users also report spool tension issues right out of the box that require a bit of adjustment.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The KastKing Rover is perfect for anglers just getting into trolling who do not want to drop serious money before figuring out what they need. It works well for casual walleye trips, catfish sessions on the river, and light saltwater use. If you are running a boat with four or more rods and need affordable backup reels, this is your answer.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you are chasing tuna, marlin, or large sharks offshore, the Rover does not have the drag power or line capacity for that kind of punishment. Similarly, serious charter captains who run reels hard every single day will want something with more proven long-term durability and better warranty support.
2. Okuma Magda Linecounter Reel - Best Entry-Level Line Counter
Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT
5.1:1 Gear Ratio
15lb Max Drag
Mechanical Line Counter
Carbonite Drag
Lightweight Graphite Frame
Pros
- Reliable mechanical line counter
- Lightweight corrosion-resistant frame
- Great value for the price
- Smooth Carbonite drag system
- Proven for walleye and salmon trolling
Cons
- Initial drag can feel too tight
- Free spool lever may occasionally jam
- Drag inconsistency between some units
The Okuma Magda Linecounter was one of the first trolling reels I ever bought, and it still has a spot on my boat. The mechanical line counter is the standout feature here. It lets you repeat exact depths every time, which is a game-changer when you find the slot where fish are actively feeding.
At under a pound, the Magda is light enough to hold all day without wrist fatigue. The graphite frame shrugs off corrosion, which matters if you fish both fresh and saltwater. I have used mine primarily for walleye on Lake Erie and for kokanee in mountain reservoirs.
The multi-disc Carbonite drag system is smooth once you get it dialed in. My one complaint is that the initial drag setting out of the box tends to run hot. I back off the star drag a quarter turn before my first outing with a new Magda, and that solves the issue.
Many anglers on fishing forums ask whether the line counter is accurate enough for serious use. In my experience, the counter tracks within a foot or two over 200 feet of line. That is more than precise enough for reproducing a productive trolling spread.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Okuma Magda is ideal for Great Lakes anglers targeting walleye, salmon, and trout on a budget. If you run planer boards or dipsey divers and need precise depth control without spending a fortune, this reel delivers. It is also a solid pick for beginners who want to learn trolling basics with a quality line counter.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need a reel for heavy saltwater offshore trolling, the 15-pound drag and modest line capacity will limit you. Anglers targeting large pelagic species should look at the higher-end lever drag reels later in this guide. The Magda is also not suited for wireline fishing applications.
3. Penn General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Reel (209M) - Best Classic Workhorse
PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 10lb | 4.5kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates, 290yd/20lbs, Black
3.2:1 Gear Ratio
HT-100 Star Drag
Machined Aluminum Spool
Brass Main Gear
Level Wind System
Pros
- Legendary Penn build quality
- HT-100 drag washers proven over decades
- Machined aluminum spool holds up well
- Simple and serviceable design
- Great for large game fish
Cons
- Only 2 ball bearings
- Can be noisy during retrieval
- No instructions included
- QC concerns on some newer units
The Penn 209M is a reel that has been around long enough to earn a serious reputation. I picked one up after seeing a charter captain on the Chesapeake Bay use the same model for over a decade without servicing it. That kind of durability tells you something.
This is a no-nonsense, old-school conventional reel. The machined brass main gear and stainless steel pinion gear give you serious cranking power. With a 3.2:1 gear ratio, you get 19 inches of line per turn, which is plenty for the kind of bottom fishing and trolling this reel is built for.
The HT-100 star drag system is one of the most trusted drag systems in fishing. Penn has used these carbon fiber washers for decades, and they just work. The max drag sits around 17 pounds, which handles everything from striped bass to medium-sized sharks.
I will say this reel is louder than modern alternatives. The two-ball-bearing system is functional but not silky smooth. Some anglers also report quality control issues with newer production runs, so inspect yours carefully when it arrives.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Penn 209M is built for anglers who want a simple, serviceable, and proven conventional reel. It excels for trolling in bays and nearshore waters for striped bass, bluefish, and tarpon. If you also do bottom fishing for snapper, grouper, or catfish, this reel handles that duty beautifully.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Anglers who want a smooth, quiet reel with lots of bearings should look at the Shimano Tekota or Okuma Cold Water. The 209M is also not ideal for deep water offshore trolling where you need massive line capacity and a lever drag system for precise drag control during a fight.
4. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel - Best Value Line Counter
Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-153D
5.1:1 Gear Ratio
20lb Max Drag
Mechanical Line Counter
Multi-disc Carbonite Drag
14.6 Ounces
Pros
- Lightweight at just 14.6 ounces
- Precise mechanical line counter
- Oversized brass drive gears for cranking power
- Excellent value for money
- Smooth multi-disc Carbonite drag
Cons
- Line counter may need initial calibration
- Right hand retrieve only on some models
- Counter accuracy can drift over time
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter is the reel I recommend more than any other to friends getting serious about trolling. I currently own six of these in different sizes, and they have accounted for more salmon and walleye in my boat than any other reel I own.
What sets the Cold Water apart is how much you get for the money. The oversized machine-cut brass XL drive and pinion gears give you serious cranking power. At 14.6 ounces, it is light enough to hold comfortably for hours. And the mechanical line counter with anti-fogging CVT technology keeps reading clearly even in cold, damp conditions.
The multi-disc Carbonite drag system with the aluminum ratcheting drag star is smooth and adjustable. I have fought chrome-bright king salmon that ran 150 yards on their first blistering run, and the drag never stuttered or grabbed. Twenty pounds of max drag is more than enough for freshwater trolling and light saltwater use.
I will mention what Reddit users have pointed out: the line counters can fail after several years of heavy use. One angler noted he had counters fail on him after about three seasons. I have experienced the same on two of my older units. For the price, I consider this an acceptable trade-off, and Okuma's customer service has been responsive when I reached out.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Okuma Cold Water is the best trolling reel I can recommend for Great Lakes salmon and steelhead anglers. It is also outstanding for walleye trolling on big water. If you run downriggers, leadcore line, or snap weights, the line counter on this reel makes your spread more precise and repeatable.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you are strictly offshore big game fishing for tuna or marlin, the Cold Water does not have the drag power or line capacity you need. Anglers who need a 2-speed reel for winching heavy fish up from deep water should also look at the Penn Squall II Lever Drag or Penn International VI further down this list.
5. Okuma Coldwater Wireline High Speed Trolling Reel - Best for Wireline Trolling
Okuma Coldwater Wireline High Speed CW-553LS Trolling Reel
4.7:1 Gear Ratio
20lb Max Drag
Wireline Specific
40.7in Line Retrieve
440yd Capacity
Pros
- Purpose-built for wireline trolling
- High-speed 40.7 inch retrieve
- Strong drag for heavy applications
- Solid build quality for saltwater
- Reliable anti-reverse system
Cons
- Wireline-specific design limits versatility
- Higher price than standard Cold Water
- Niche application not for everyone
The Okuma Coldwater Wireline is a specialized tool for a specialized job. I started using this reel when I got into wireline trolling for striped bass off the Jersey Shore, and it does exactly what it needs to do. The oversized spool and high-speed 4.7:1 gear ratio give you 40.7 inches of line per crank, which matters when you are pulling heavy trolling weights and wire line.
Wireline trolling is a different animal. The stainless steel wire cuts through the water column differently than monofilament or braid, getting your lure deeper without additional weight. This reel is designed with the right spool width and tension to handle wire line without it digging in or bird-nesting.
The drag system holds steady at 20 pounds, which is what you need when a big striper or bluefish hits a trolled rig going four knots. The three stainless steel ball bearings keep things running smoothly even under load. I also appreciate the anti-reverse feature, which locks up solid when a fish strikes.
The trade-off is that this reel is purpose-built for wireline. You can run monofilament or braid on it, but the wide spool and high-speed ratio are wasted on standard trolling applications. It costs more than the standard Okuma Cold Water, and for most anglers, that premium only makes sense if you are committed to wireline fishing.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Coldwater Wireline is purpose-built for saltwater anglers who troll with wire line for striped bass, bluefish, and other nearshore pelagics. If you fish the Chesapeake Bay, the waters off Montauk, or the New Jersey coast and want to get lures deep without downriggers, this is your reel.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Freshwater trollers should stick with the standard Okuma Cold Water Linecounter. If you are looking for a versatile reel that handles multiple line types and techniques, this specialized model is overkill. The higher price only makes sense if wireline trolling is a regular part of your fishing season.
6. Penn Squall II Level Wind Conventional Reel - Best Mid-Range Level Wind
Penn Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel,Black Gold
3+1 Stainless BB
33lb Max Drag
HT-100 Carbon Drag
Level Wind
Graphite Frame
Pros
- Powerful HT-100 carbon fiber drag system
- 33lb max drag handles big fish
- Lightweight graphite frame
- Forged aluminum spool
- Fast gear access sideplate
Cons
- Some line counter accuracy issues
- Louder clicker than expected
- Quality control concerns on some units
- Newer model with fewer reviews
The Penn Squall II Level Wind is the updated version of a reel that has been a workhorse for charter captains for years. I tested the 20LWLC model on a tuna trip out of Cape Cod, running it as a flat line for schoolie bluefin. The 33-pound drag system with HT-100 carbon fiber washers is the highlight here.
Penn's HT-100 drag washers are the same ones used in their legendary International series. They deliver smooth, consistent pressure without the grabbiness you get from cheaper drag materials. When a fish runs, the line pays out evenly. When you crank the drag lever up, you feel the stopping power immediately.
The graphite frame keeps weight down while maintaining stiffness. At just over 27 ounces, this reel is manageable on a rod all day. The forged and machined aluminum spool handles braid and mono equally well. I appreciate the Fast Gear Access Side Plate, which makes maintenance and gear swaps much simpler than on older designs.
Some early reviewers have noted issues with the line counter accuracy on the LC models. The clicker is also louder than expected, which actually helps when you are running multiple rods and need to hear a strike. With only 39 reviews so far, this is a newer model, so long-term durability data is still building.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Penn Squall II Level Wind is ideal for anglers targeting medium to large saltwater species from stripers to school tuna. The level wind makes it beginner-friendly, and the 33-pound drag gives you real stopping power. Charter operators running multiple rods will appreciate the serviceability and Penn's reputation for standing behind their products.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need a line counter reel for precision freshwater trolling, the Okuma Cold Water is more accurate and better value. Anglers targeting giant tuna or marlin should step up to the Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed or Penn International VI for the additional drag control and line capacity.
7. Shimano Tekota A Conventional Trolling Reel - Best Premium Freshwater Troller
TEKOTA A
6.6:1 Gear Ratio
20lb Max Drag
Hagane Body
Cross Carbon Drag
CoreProtect Water Resistance
Pros
- Hagane body eliminates flexing for power transfer
- Ergonomic S-Compact body design
- Cross Carbon drag offers wide setting range
- CoreProtect corrosion resistance
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited line capacity on some models
- Lower max drag than lever drag competitors
- Right hand only on tested model
The Shimano Tekota A is the reel I reach for when I am serious about putting fish in the boat. On Reddit, one user summed it up perfectly: "I would recommend the Shimano Tekota instead. I used to run Coldwaters but taking them apart for maintenance is a nightmare." That tracks with my experience.
The Hagane body technology is what sets the Tekota apart from the competition. It is a forged, rigid frame that virtually eliminates body flex under load. When you are cranking against a big fish, all your power goes directly into the gears instead of being lost to frame twist. The difference is noticeable.
The Cross Carbon drag material gives you a noticeably wider range of drag settings than standard carbon washers. I can dial in exactly the pressure I want for different species and line weights. The CoreProtect water resistance technology adds a layer of corrosion protection that matters if you fish in saltwater.
The 6.6:1 gear ratio is the fastest in this guide, giving you 35 inches of line per turn. That makes the Tekota incredibly versatile. I use mine for trolling salmon one weekend and casting swimbaits for pike the next. The ergonomic S-Compact body keeps the profile low and comfortable in hand.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Shimano Tekota A is the best trolling reel for anglers who want premium performance for both trolling and casting applications. Great Lakes salmon and steelhead anglers will love the line counter version. If you value smooth operation, solid build quality, and versatility across multiple techniques, the Tekota delivers.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your primary target is bluewater big game like tuna and marlin, the Tekota's 20-pound drag and line capacity are not sufficient. Anglers on a tight budget should consider the Okuma Cold Water, which offers 80 percent of the Tekota's performance at roughly half the price.
8. Okuma Solterra SLX Lever Drag Reel - Best 2-Speed Value
Okuma Solterra SLX Two Speed Closed Frame Lever Drag Reel Saltwater Trolling Reel, SLX-30IIb, 540yds-40lb, Black
2-Speed
40lb Max Drag
Stainless Steel Gears
Carbonite Drag with Cal's Grease
Double Dog Anti-Reverse
Pros
- 2-speed transmission for versatility
- 40lb max drag handles big fish
- Stainless steel gears throughout
- Cal's universal drag grease for smooth operation
- Thrust bearings reduce handle force by 50 percent
Cons
- Right hand retrieve only
- 40.5 ounce weight is heavy
- Limited reviews on newer SLX model
The Okuma Solterra SLX is the reel that surprised me most during testing. I picked it up expecting a mid-tier 2-speed and came away genuinely impressed. The stainless steel main gears, pinion gears, and shafts give this reel the kind of internal muscle you expect from reels costing twice as much.
The 2-speed transmission is the real selling point. Being able to shift between high gear for quickly retrieving trolling lines and low gear for winching up a big fish changes how you fish. I tested this reel trolling for yellowtail off the California coast, and the gear shift was smooth and reliable every time.
Okuma uses Cal's universal drag grease on the Carbonite drag system, and that is a significant detail. Cal's drag grease is the gold standard for big game reels. It keeps the drag smooth and prevents the washers from sticking under sustained pressure. The 40-pound max drag is legitimate, and the two thrust bearings reduce handle turning force by over 50 percent.
The double dog silent anti-reverse on all models means there is no backplay in the handle when a fish hits. That matters when a big tuna or amberjack slams your trolled lure at speed. The frame is corrosion-resistant and has held up well to saltwater exposure in my testing.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Okuma Solterra SLX is the best trolling reel for anglers stepping up to 2-speed offshore trolling without spending International-level money. It handles tuna, mahi, wahoo, and amberjack with confidence. If you fish offshore regularly and want a lever drag 2-speed that will not break the bank, this is my top recommendation.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
At 40.5 ounces, the Solterra is heavy. Anglers who prefer lightweight setups should consider the Tekota or Cold Water. If you are targeting giant bluefin tuna over 200 pounds, you may want to step up to the Penn International VI for the machined aluminum frame and Dura-Drag system.
9. Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed - Editor's Choice for Offshore
PENN 1292938 Squall Lever Drag 2-Speed Trolling Fishing Reel, 890/50, black, IGFA50, SQL50VSW
2-Speed Quick Shift
40lb Max Drag
Lever Drag System
Graphite Frame
890yd Line Capacity
Pros
- Quick Shift 2-speed system shifts smoothly under load
- 40lb drag with HT-100 washers
- Lightweight graphite frame for big game
- Massive 890yd line capacity
- Highly rated by 373 reviewers
Cons
- Right hand retrieve only
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
- Premium investment
The Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed is the reel I recommend to anyone serious about offshore trolling. With 373 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this is one of the most proven lever drag reels on the market. I have used the 50VSW size for tuna fishing out of Oregon Inlet, and it is a beast.
The Quick Shift 2-speed system is the feature that sells this reel. You can be in high gear trolling at 7 knots, and when a yellowfin hits, a simple flick of the shift button drops you into low gear for maximum torque. The transition is smooth and can be done under load, which is critical when you have a big fish on the line.
The lever drag system gives you precise control over drag pressure. You set your strike drag, then push the lever forward to full for maximum stopping power. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers deliver a legitimate 40 pounds of drag, which is enough to turn the head of almost anything that swims.
With 890 yards of 50-pound monofilament capacity, this reel has the line capacity for deep-diving tuna and long-running marlin. The graphite frame keeps weight down compared to aluminum-frame reels, which matters when you are fighting a fish for 45 minutes. One forum user on The Hull Truth put it well: "Penn and Shimano are my top two choices for offshore."
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed is the best trolling reel for serious offshore anglers targeting tuna, marlin, wahoo, and other pelagics. Charter captains and tournament anglers will appreciate the proven drag system, massive line capacity, and Quick Shift 2-speed. If you are building an offshore trolling spread, this reel belongs on your boat.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Freshwater anglers and inshore trollers do not need this much reel. The Squall II Lever Drag is heavy and expensive for walleye or salmon applications. If you want the ultimate in big game stopping power and machined aluminum construction, step up to the Penn International VI. For budget-conscious offshore anglers, the Okuma Solterra SLX offers similar 2-speed functionality at a lower price.
10. Penn International VI Conventional Reel - Best Professional Grade
PENN INTERNATIONAL VISX 2 Speed, INT12VISX
Quick-Shift II 2-Speed
Dura-Drag System
Machined Aluminum Body
Stainless Steel Gears
Versa-Strike
Pros
- Machined and anodized aluminum body for maximum rigidity
- Dura-Drag system for ultra-smooth stopping power
- Quick-Shift II 2-speed for tactical gear changes
- Highest rated reel at 4.7 stars
- Professional tournament-grade build
Cons
- Highest price in this guide
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
- Heavy at 3.4 pounds
The Penn International VI is the reel that every other big game reel is measured against. I had the chance to fish one on a multi-day tuna trip out of Hatteras, and the difference between this and every other reel in this guide is immediately apparent. From the moment you pick it up, the machined and anodized aluminum construction tells you this is a serious tool.
The Dura-Drag system is what separates the International from lesser reels. Penn uses a specialized drag material that is incredibly smooth and resists the heat buildup that causes cheaper drag systems to grab or fade during long fights. When a 300-pound bluefin is taking drag for ten minutes straight, this is the system you want behind your line.
The Quick-Shift II 2-speed system gives you two distinct gear ratios accessible with a simple button push. High gear for trolling and retrieving lines. Low gear for applying maximum pressure to a stubborn fish. The stainless steel main and pinion gears are built to handle the kind of torque that bends lesser components.
The Versa-Strike adjustable strike stop lets you fine-tune your strike drag position, which serious tournament anglers will appreciate. With a 4.7-star rating from 92 reviewers and 88 percent five-star ratings, the International VI has earned its place at the top. As one forum user noted: "A stock Shimano TLD will catch almost anything other than cow tuna over 200 pounds." The International VI is what you use for those cow tuna.
Who Should Buy This Reel
The Penn International VI is the best trolling reel for professional captains, tournament anglers, and serious big game fishermen. If you regularly target giant bluefin tuna, blue marlin, or large sharks, this reel has the drag, line capacity, and build quality to handle anything. It is an investment that will last decades with proper care.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
At this price point, the International VI is overkill for anyone who does not regularly target large pelagics. Anglers targeting school tuna, mahi, and wahoo will be well served by the Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed at roughly half the cost. Weekend warriors and freshwater-only anglers should look at the Okuma Cold Water or Shimano Tekota.
How to Choose the Best Trolling Reel
Choosing among the best trolling reels comes down to understanding your fishing style, target species, and the specific features that matter for your application. Here is what I tell anglers who ask me for buying advice.
Lever Drag vs Star Drag
This is the most important decision you will make. A lever drag reel lets you adjust drag pressure with a smooth lever that moves from free spool to full drag. You can preset a strike position and push past it when needed. Lever drag reels are the standard for offshore trolling because they give you precise, repeatable drag control.
A star drag reel uses a star-shaped wheel behind the handle to adjust drag. It is simpler, generally cheaper, and works well for freshwater trolling and nearshore applications. Star drag reels tend to be more compact and lighter than lever drag models.
Line Capacity and Target Species
Match your line capacity to the fish you are targeting. Walleye and salmon trolling typically requires 200 to 300 yards of 12 to 20 pound monofilament. Offshore trolling for tuna and marlin demands 500 to 900-plus yards of 50 to 80 pound braid or mono. Always choose a reel with more capacity than you think you need.
Gear Ratio and Retrieve Rate
For most trolling applications, a gear ratio between 4.0:1 and 5.1:1 is ideal. This gives you enough cranking power to fight big fish without wearing yourself out. High-speed reels with 6.0:1 or higher ratios are great for quickly retrieving lines when checking baits, but they sacrifice cranking power. A 2-speed reel gives you both options in one package.
Do You Need a Line Counter?
If you run downriggers, planer boards, or dipsey divers, a line counter reel is essential. It lets you reproduce exact trolling depths every time you set a line. For offshore trolling where you are letting line out to a predetermined amount, a line counter is helpful but not critical. Most offshore anglers count passes or use visual references instead.
Saltwater vs Freshwater Trolling
Freshwater trolling reels prioritize lightweight design, line counters, and smooth operation. The Okuma Cold Water and Shimano Tekota dominate this category. Saltwater trolling reels need corrosion-resistant materials, more drag power, and larger line capacity. Look for stainless steel gears, sealed bearings, and graphite or anodized aluminum frames that resist saltwater damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size reel for trolling?
For most trolling applications, you want a reel in the 20 to 50 size range. Size 20 to 30 reels work well for freshwater trolling for walleye, salmon, and trout, holding 200 to 300 yards of 12 to 20 pound line. For offshore saltwater trolling targeting tuna and marlin, sizes 30 to 50 and larger are needed, with capacity for 500 or more yards of heavier line.
Is a 2500 or 3000 reel better for walleye?
Both 2500 and 3000 size reels work for walleye casting, but for trolling you generally want a conventional reel rather than a spinning reel. For walleye trolling specifically, look at line counter conventional reels like the Okuma Cold Water in size 15 or 20, which provide the depth control and line capacity needed for effective trolling spreads.
What are trolling reels good for?
Trolling reels are designed for pulling lures or baited lines behind a moving boat at controlled depths. They excel for targeting salmon, walleye, trout, striped bass, tuna, marlin, wahoo, and other species that respond to trolled presentations. They feature high line capacity, strong drag systems, and durable construction to handle the sustained pressure of trolling and the powerful strikes of fish hitting moving lures.
What is the best gear ratio for offshore trolling reels?
For offshore trolling, a gear ratio between 4.0:1 and 5.1:1 is generally best for single-speed reels. This range provides the cranking power needed to fight large pelagic fish. A 2-speed reel is ideal because it offers a low gear around 1.3:1 to 2.0:1 for maximum torque on big fish and a high gear around 4.5:1 to 6.0:1 for quickly retrieving lines between strikes.
What type of reel is best for trolling?
Conventional reels are the best type for trolling because they offer high line capacity, powerful drag systems, and the ability to handle heavy line. Within conventional reels, lever drag reels are preferred for offshore big game trolling, while star drag level wind reels with line counters are ideal for freshwater trolling. Spinning reels can work for light trolling but lack the capacity and drag performance of conventional designs.
Wrapping Up the Best Trolling Reels
Finding the best trolling reels for your fishing style does not have to be complicated. If you are on a budget, the KastKing Rover and Okuma Magda get you on the water without breaking the bank. For serious freshwater trolling, the Okuma Cold Water Linecounter and Shimano Tekota A are the reels I trust on my own boat. And for offshore big game hunters, the Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2-Speed and Penn International VI represent the gold standard.
The reel you choose should match the fish you target, the water you fish, and the budget you are working with. All 10 reels in this guide have been tested and vetted by real anglers with real experience on the water. Pick the one that fits your needs, spool it up with quality line, and get your lines in the water.
Our team will keep this guide updated as new models hit the market in 2026 and beyond. Tight lines.