If you’re looking for the best saltwater fishing reels, you’ve come to the right place. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll take a look at the top 10 saltwater reels for river fishing and give you some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a saltwater fishing reel. First, you’ll want to consider the type of fish you’re targeting. Saltwater fish tend to be larger and more aggressive than their freshwater counterparts, so you’ll need a reel that can handle the extra weight and fight.
Second, you’ll want to consider the environment you’ll be fishing in. If you’re fishing in saltwater, you’ll need a reel that can stand up to the corrosive effects of salt water. Freshwater fishing is less demanding on your gear, so you can get away with a less expensive reel.
Finally, you’ll want to think about your budget. There are great saltwater fishing reels available at all price points, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget.
With all of that in mind, let’s take a look at the top 10 saltwater fishing reels for river fishing:
The best budget-friendly spinning reel
SHIMANO Sedona FI REEL
The Shimano Store’s Sedona FI reel is a workhorse designed for the angler who likes to take their time and enjoy the fight. This reel can handle any fish imaginable, from the behemoths of the Amazon to the finicky trout of your local stream. The robust drag system ensures a smooth, consistent fight, while the large spool accommodates plenty of line for those who like to let their prey run.
Whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, the Sedona FI is a great reel for any fishing enthusiast.
Excellent performance for the price
Great for small streams
Solid feel for casting
Excellent build quality
Long casting distancesCold forged HAGANE gears provide strong, durable performance
Not as great as higher-end reels
Relatively expensive
The initial spool weight is on the high end
Model: 4000 Sedona
Product size: 9 x 7 x 3 inches
Usage: Spinning
Feature: Gear Ratio 6.2:1
Grip size: 6.2 INCHES
Style: Gear Ratio
The best entry-level spinning reel
Shimano Vanford F Spinning Reel
The Shimano Vanford F Spinning Reel is a great choice for anglers who are looking for a quality reel that won’t break the bank. This reel is packed with features that make it a great option for both novice and experienced anglers alike. For starters, the Vanford F features a sleek and stylish design that is sure to turn heads. The body of the reel is made from high-quality materials, and it features a sturdy construction that can withstand a lot of use. The drag system on the Vanford F is also top-notch, and it provides a smooth and consistent performance. Overall, the Shimano Vanford F Spinning Reel is a great choice for anglers who are looking for a quality reel that won’t break the bank.
Strong, durable MGL rotor
MGL rotor for increased casting distance
Built-in grippy rubber handle
Good gear ratio
Excellent for casts of 50+ meters
Heavy (5.5 lbs, 2.6 kg)
Rotor can get hot
Heavy for lightweight spinner type reels
Model: VF500F
Weight: 4.9 Ounces
Size: 1 x 1 x 1 inch
Rotor: MagnumLite (MGL)
Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
Users: unisex-adult
Best Saltwater ROI Spinning Reel
PENN Spinning Reel VI
For those who don’t know, the Penn Spinfisher VI is a high-quality spinning fishing reel. It’s one of the best on the market, and it’s widely used by both professional and amateur anglers.
Now, I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan of spinning fishing reels. I much prefer baitcasting reels. However, I have to admit that the Penn Spinfisher VI is a really great reel. It’s well-made, it’s tough, and it delivers smooth, consistent performance.
If you’re in the market for a high-quality spinning fishing reel, the Penn Spinfisher VI should definitely be at the top of your list. It’s a great reel that will serve you well for many years to come.
Adjustable bail
Gear ratio helps you fish lighter weights
Universal spool design
Minimal line twist
Spinfisher line
Gear ratio isn’t as high as some anglers might like
Heavy to fight off big fish
Gear Ratio: 6.2
Model: Spingf-> Usage: Saltwater fishing
Weight: 0.76 Pounds
Material: Carbon Fiber
Package: 4.84 x 4.84 x 3.27 inch
Usage: Unisex-adult
Geometry: 5 x 5 x 4 inches
The best value spin reel for entry level
PENN Battle III Spinning Fishing Reel
The PENN Battle III Spinning Fishing Reel is one of the most popular reels on the market, and for good reason. It’s affordable, durable, and reliable, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced anglers alike.
Design
The PENN Battle III features a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. It has a lightweight aluminum body and an anodized finish that protects against corrosion. The reel also features a sealed drag system that ensures smooth and consistent performance.
Performance
The Battle III offers smooth and precise performance thanks to its six stainless steel ball bearings and a graphite drag system. The reel’s centrifugal brake system provides great control when casting, while the instant anti-reverse prevents line backlash.
Features
The PENN Battle III comes with a number of features that make it a great choice for saltwater fishing. It has an ergonomic handle that provides comfort and control, and the reel also features a braid-ready spool that eliminates the need for backing.
Price
The PENN Battle III Spinning Fishing Reel is very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious anglers.
High-quality build quality
Strong, durable construction
Strong, smooth-reeling mechanical drag
Excellent performance for its weight
Reasonable line-capacity for its weight
Somewhat heavy (51.3 oz/1506 grams)
Slipping gear could damage line
Sport: Fishing
Weight: 0.25 Kilograms
Model: BTLIII1000
Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
Design: Battle III
Gear Ratio: 5.2
Package: 4.25 x 4.06 x 3.11 inches
Components: Reel
Best value for beginners saltwater spinning reel
KastKing Kapstan Elite Saltwater Spinning Reel
The KastKing Kapstan Elite Saltwater Spinning Reel is a high-quality, 100% waterproof reel that can handle up to 55 pounds of drag. It features a CNC aluminum body, power handle, and a 6+1+1 corrosion-resistance bearing system. This reel is ideal for saltwater fishing and can handle big game fish with ease. It’s also one of the most affordable reels on the market, making it a great value for the money.
Reliable in high-performance applications
Top-quality build and performance and corrosion-free hardware
Sealed ball bearings
Built-in grit tabs
Spinning gear layout is easy to use
Heavy, Heavy, Heavy
Geometry: 1000 Automatic Bail
Weight: 0.57 Kilograms
Brand: KastKing
Material: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Carbon
Style: Ipx6
Size: 9.06 x 7.09 x 4.25 inches
Drag Max: 55LBs
Orientation: Ambidextrous
The best budget-friendly aluminum spinning reel
Daiwa BG Spinning Reel
The Daiwa BG Spinning Reel is a great reel for anyone looking for a good quality, durable reel. It is perfect for both fresh and salt water fishing. The reel is easy to use and has a great drag system. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a good quality spinning reel.
Ideal weight range for freshwater fishing
Line capacity matches Ahleholm test
Excellent-featured drag system
Gear Ratio of 5.6:1 is fast
Gear ratio suitable for soft-bait and ultralight lure fishing
Sub-par performance with light line weights
Sub-par performance on light line
Model: BG3000
Weight: 15.4 Kilograms
Design: Compact, simple
Model: BG3000
Package: 5.39 x 5.2 x 3.62 inches
Users: unisex-adults
Geometry: 6 x 5 x 4 inches
Middle of the Pack Entry
Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel
The Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel is a great reel for those who are looking for a durable and reliable product. This reel is made with a high quality material that is designed to last. The reel also features a smooth drag system that will make it easy to use.
Lightweight design
Ballistic MQ LT for versatility
Zoom Adjustability
Tough 4000 series aluminum machined rotors
Reel features a smooth-spinning action
Ball bearings don’t last forever
Ball Bearings can get noisy
Usage: Spinning
Style: Ballistic-MQ-LT
Bearing: 8
Size: 6.22 x 5.63 x 4.02 inches
Usage: Fishing
Model: Ballistic-MQ-LT
Weight: 7.6 Ounces
What is the best saltwater fishing reel?
The best saltwater fishing reel is a debatable topic. Some fisherman prefer a certain type of reel for different reasons. However, we have compiled a list of the top 10 saltwater reels for river fishing.
1. PENN Conflict II
The PENN Conflict II is a great choice for a saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
2. Shimano Stella SWB
The Shimano Stella SWB is another great option for a saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a high-quality material that is both strong and durable. The drag system is also very smooth, making it a great choice for those who want to fight big fish.
3. Daiwa Saltiga
The Daiwa Saltiga is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a high-quality material that is both strong and durable. The drag system is also very smooth, making it a great choice for those who want to fight big fish.
4. Penn Battle II
The Penn Battle II is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
5. Shimano Saragosa SW
The Shimano Saragosa SW is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
6. Penn Fierce II
The Penn Fierce II is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
7. Daiwa Tatula CT
The Daiwa Tatula CT is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a high-quality material that is both strong and durable. The drag system is also very smooth, making it a great choice for those who want to fight big fish.
8. Shimano Tranx
The Shimano Tranx is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
9. Penn Torque II
The Penn Torque II is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a full metal body and stainless steel main shaft. The drag system is also very strong, making it a great choice for fighting big fish.
10. Daiwa BG
The Daiwa BG is another great saltwater fishing reel. It is made with a high-quality material that is both strong and durable. The drag system is also very smooth, making it a great choice for those who want to fight big fish.
Do I need a specific size of saltwater fishing reel?
Do you need a specific size of saltwater fishing reel? This is a question that I get a lot, and it’s a valid one. There are many different sizes and types of saltwater fishing reels on the market, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Here are some things to consider when choosing a saltwater fishing reel:
1. The type of fish you’re targeting. If you’re targeting big game fish like tuna or marlin, you’ll need a heavier reel that can handle the weight and fight of these fish. Conversely, if you’re targeting smaller fish like mackerel or sardines, you can get away with a smaller and lighter reel.
2. The type of water you’ll be fishing in. If you’re fishing in open ocean water, you’ll need a reel that can handle the waves and currents. If you’re fishing in calmer waters, like a river or lake, you won’t need a reel with as much power.
3. Your own personal preferences. This is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a reel. There are so many different types and sizes of reels on the market, so it’s important to find one that feels comfortable for you to use. Once you’ve found a reel that you like, stick with it.
So, do you need a specific size of saltwater fishing reel? Not necessarily. It all depends on the type of fish you’re targeting, the type of water you’ll be fishing in, and your own personal preferences. With so many different types of reels on the market, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you.
How much drag can my saltwater fishing reel handle?
If you are curious how much drag different reels can handle, take a look below! Not all companies follow the same type of model number system so pay attention to the specs!
So, let’s get started!
Number 10 on our list is the Penn fierce II8000. This reel can handle up to 30 pounds of drag, making it great for river fishing. However, if you’re going to be using this reel for saltwater fishing, you might want to put a little less weight on it. We recommend putting 20-25 pounds of drag on this reel.
Number 9 is the Shimano Saragosa SWA8000. This reel can handle up to 55 pounds of drag, making it one of the strongest reels on our list. However, like the Penn fierce II8000, we recommend putting 20-25 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 8 is the Daiwa SaltigaDogfight 6000H. This reel can handle up to 33 pounds of drag, making it great for river fishing. However, we recommend putting 25-30 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 7 is the Shimano Stella SW14000XG. This reel can handle up to 44 pounds of drag, making it great for both river and saltwater fishing. However, we recommend putting 30-35 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 6 is the Daiwa Saltiga 6000H. This reel can handle up to 55 pounds of drag, making it one of the strongest reels on our list. However, we recommend putting 35-40 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 5 is the Penn International VI5500. This reel can handle up to 60 pounds of drag, making it great for both river and saltwater fishing. However, we recommend putting 40-45 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 4 is the Shimano Stella SW18000HG. This reel can handle up to 44 pounds of drag, making it great for both river and saltwater fishing. However, we recommend putting 45-50 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 3 is the Daiwa Saltiga 8000H. This reel can handle up to 77 pounds of drag, making it one of the strongest reels on our list. However, we recommend putting 50-55 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
Number 2 is the Shimano Stella SW20000PG. This reel can handle up to 44 pounds of drag, making it great for both river and saltwater fishing. However, we recommend putting 55-60 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
And finally, number 1 on our list is the Daiwa Saltiga 10000H. This reel can handle up to 110 pounds of drag, making it the strongest reel on our list. However, we recommend putting 60-65 pounds of drag on this reel if you’re going to be using it for saltwater fishing.
So, there you have it! Those are the top 10 saltwater reels for river fishing, and how much weight you should put on each one. We hope you found this blog post helpful, and we hope you have a great time river fishing!
Should I buy a saltwater fishing reel that comes with a spinning reel seat?
If you’re an avid fisherman, then you know that having the right equipment is essential to a successful day out on the water. One of the most important pieces of equipment you need is a good quality reel. But with so many different types and brands of reels on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. If you’re planning on doing any river fishing, then you’ll need a saltwater fishing reel that can handle the elements. But should you buy a reel that comes with a spinning reel seat?
There are a few things you need to take into consideration before making your decision. First, you need to think about what type of fish you’re going to be targeting. If you’re going after smaller fish, then a spinning reel seat might be a good option. But if you’re planning on targeting larger fish, then you might want to consider a reel with a baitcasting reel seat. This will give you more control over your line and help you fight those bigger fish.
Another thing to think about is the type of water you’ll be fishing in. If you’re going to be fishing in saltwater, then you need to make sure your reel can handle the corrosive nature of the salt. A spinning reel seat might not be able to stand up to the saltwater, so a baitcasting reel seat might be a better option.
Finally, you need to consider your budget. A baitcasting reel seat will usually be more expensive than a spinning reel seat. But if you’re serious about fishing, then you shouldn’t let price be the deciding factor. The most important thing is to get a reel that’s going to perform well and last a long time.
So, should you buy a saltwater fishing reel that comes with a spinning reel seat? It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. But if you’re planning on doing any serious river fishing, then a baitcasting reel seat is probably the better option.
How do I maintain and care for my saltwater fishing reel?
If you have a passion for saltwater fishing, then you know that having a reliable reel is important. But what happens when your reel starts to show signs of wear and tear? How do you maintain and care for your reel so that it continues to perform at its best? Here are 10 tips on how to maintain and care for your saltwater fishing reel:
1. Keep your reel clean – After each fishing trip, make sure to clean your reel with fresh water. This will help remove any salt and sand that can build up and cause corrosion.
2. Lubricate your reel – A well-lubricated reel will last longer and perform better. Apply a light oil to all moving parts after cleaning your reel.
3. Inspect your reel regularly – Take a close look at your reel at least once a month to check for any signs of wear or damage.
4. Replace worn parts – If you notice any parts that are worn or damaged, replace them as soon as possible.
5. Store your reel properly – When you’re not using your reel, store it in a dry, cool place.
6. Don’t overwind your reel – Overwinding can damage your reel, so be careful not to wind the line too tight.
7. Use the right line – Using the wrong type of line can damage your reel. Make sure you’re using the correct line for the type of fishing you’re doing.
8. Avoid getting your reel wet – If you must get your reel wet, make sure to dry it off as soon as possible.
9. Don’t drop your reel – Dropping your reel can damage it, so be careful when handling it.
10. Get your reel serviced – If you’re having problems with your reel, take it to a qualified repair shop for servicing.
Saltwater fishing reels: What you need to know (besides tackle)
Any good fisherman knows that the type of reel you use can make or break your success while out on the water. While there are a variety of different types of fishing reels to choose from, saltwater fishing reels are a category all their own. Different from their freshwater counterparts, saltwater reels are designed to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater and the increased drag that comes with fishing in the ocean. If you’re planning on heading out to fish in the salt, it’s important to choose the right reel for the job. Here’s what you need to know about saltwater fishing reels, plus our top 10 picks for the best saltwater reels for river fishing.
As we mentioned, one of the key features of a good saltwater fishing reel is its ability to withstand corrosion. Saltwater is incredibly corrosive, and if your reel isn’t properly protected, it can quickly succumb to rust and other damage. Most saltwater reels are made from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials, like aluminum. Another key feature of saltwater reels is their increased drag. Since you’re likely to be fishing for larger, stronger fish in the ocean, you’ll need a reel with a drag system that can handle the extra weight and force. Many saltwater reels also feature sealed bearings to keep out salt and sand, which can wreak havoc on your reel if left unchecked.
When choosing a saltwater fishing reel, it’s important to first consider what type of fish you’ll be targeting. If you’re planning on going after smaller fish, like trout or flounder, you can get away with using a lighter reel. But if you’re planning on targeting larger fish, like marlin or tuna, you’ll need a heavier-duty reel that can handle the increased drag. There are a variety of different types of saltwater fishing reels to choose from, so it’s important to select the one that’s best suited for the type of fishing you’ll be doing. Spinning reels are a good choice for lighter tackle, while baitcasting reels are better suited for heavier tackle.
Now that you know a little bit more about saltwater fishing reels, here are our top 10 picks for the best saltwater reels for river fishing:
1. Penn Squall Level Wind Reel
2. Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel
3. Shimano TLD Star Drag Reel
4. Okuma Makaira Two-Speed Lever Drag Reel
5. Penn Fathom Lever Drag Two-Speed Reel
6. Daiwa Saltiga Lever-Drag Reel
7. Shimano Tekota Levelwind Reel
8. Penn Conflict II Spinning Reel
9. Okuma Citrix A Low-Profile Baitcasting Reel
10. Daiwa Saltiga Star Drag Reel
Are saltwater fishing reels safe to use in freshwater?
Are saltwater fishing reels safe to use in freshwater? This is a question that we get asked a lot, and the answer is yes! Saltwater fishing reels are safe to use in freshwater, and in fact, they can be a great option for those who are looking to get into river fishing.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using saltwater fishing reels in freshwater, though. First, you’ll want to make sure that you rinse the reel off with freshwater after each use in saltwater. This will help to prevent any corrosion or rust from setting in.
Second, you’ll want to pay attention to the drag setting on your reel. When fishing in saltwater, you’ll want to have the drag set a bit tighter than you would when fishing in freshwater. This is because saltwater fish tend to be stronger and fight harder than freshwater fish. If you have the drag set too loose, you run the risk of the fish taking off with your line and breaking it.
Other than those two things, using a saltwater fishing reel in freshwater is perfectly safe and can even be a great option for those looking to get into river fishing. So, if you’ve been wanting to try your hand at river fishing but weren’t sure if saltwater fishing reels were safe to use, now you know!
Saltwater fishing reels: Baitcasting vs. spinning
There are two main types of saltwater fishing reels: baitcasting and spinning. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know which one is best for the type of fishing you’re doing. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each type of reel:
Baitcasting Reels:
-Baitcasting reels are more accurate than spinning reels, so they’re good for targeting specific fish.
-Baitcasting reels can handle heavier lures and lines, so they’re good for saltwater fishing where you need to cast further and battle bigger fish.
-Baitcasting reels can be more difficult to use than spinning reels, so they’re not recommended for beginners.
Spinning Reels:
-Spinning reels are easier to use than baitcasting reels, so they’re good for beginners.
-Spinning reels are lighter than baitcasting reels, so they’re good for ultralight fishing where you don’t need to cast far or fight big fish.
-Spinning reels can’t handle as heavy lures or lines as baitcasting reels, so they’re not as good for saltwater fishing.
What’s the best brand of saltwater fishing reel?
There are a lot of different brands of saltwater fishing reels on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is the best for you. I’ve put together a list of the top 10 saltwater reels for river fishing, so you can make an informed decision when you’re ready to purchase one.
1. PENN Spinfisher VSaltwater Fishing Reel
2. Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Reel
3. Shimano Saragosa SW Saltwater Spinning Reel
4. Penn Clash Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel
5. Okuma Citrix Saltwater Casting Reel
6. PENN Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed Saltwater Fishing Reel
7. Daiwa Tanacom Bull Saltwater Electric Fishing Reel
8. Shimano Stella SW Saltwater Spinning Reel
9. PENN Battle II Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel
10. Okuma Makaira Saltwater Lever Drag Fishing Reel
When it comes to saltwater fishing, you need a reel that can stand up to the elements and handle the big fish that you’re going to be targeting. These 10 saltwater reels are some of the best on the market, and they’ll help you land the fish of a lifetime.