Best Lever Drag Baitcasting Fishing Reels of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Lever Drag Baitcasting Fishing Reels are a popular choice for anglers who enjoy fishing in saltwater or for larger species of fish. These reels offer a smooth and powerful drag system that can handle heavy fish with ease. The lever drag system allows for easy adjustment of the drag while fighting a fish, giving anglers more control over the fight. These reels are also known for their durability and long-lasting performance, making them a reliable choice for serious anglers. With a variety of models available from different manufacturers, there is a Lever Drag Baitcasting Fishing Reel to suit every angler's needs and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shimano Triton TLD20 Graphite Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 1
Shimano Triton TLD20 Graphite Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Penn Fathom 25N Lever Drag Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Penn Fathom 25N Lever Drag Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Saltwater Trolling Reel Cover #TOP 3
Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Saltwater Trolling Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lever Drag Baitcasting Fishing Reels

Shimano Triton TLD20 Graphite Fishing Reel

TLD20
[ Gray ]
One Size
Shimano Triton TLD20 Graphite Fishing Reel Cover
Shimano Triton TLD20 Lever Drag Graphite Fishing Reel

The Shimano Triton TLD20 Lever Drag Graphite Fishing Reel is perfect for casting, live-bait and trolling fishermen. The reel features a durable 1-piece graphite body, stainless steel gears and main shaft, and a superlative ball bearing drag system that runs smoother and lasts longer. The reel has a lightweight yet strong 1-piece graphite frame, 4 anti-rust ball bearings, and is rated for use with Mono, Fluorocarbon and PowerPro lines. The Triton's strike alarm click helps you keep track of your catch, making it a great addition to your fishing gear.

What We Like
Durable 1-piece graphite body
Superlative ball bearing drag system
Lightweight yet strong 1-piece graphite frame

Penn Fathom 25N Lever Drag Fishing Reel

1292932
Black
Penn Fathom 25N Lever Drag Fishing Reel Cover
Penn 1292932 Fathom 25N Lever 2-Speed Lever Drag Fishing Reel, Black

The Penn Fathom 25N Lever Drag Fishing Reel is a heavy-duty reel that promises durability and power. The die-cast aluminum construction of the body and side plates ensures rigidity and strength. The Quick Shift 2-speed system allows for easy switching between high and low gear. The Dura-Drag system reduces snags and hesitation even during extreme drag settings. The reel also boasts 5 shielded stainless steel ball bearings, switchblade harness lugs, and double dog ratchet anti-reverse for smooth and fluid cranking.

What We Like
Durable and powerful
Easy gear shifting
Reduced snags and hesitation

Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Saltwater Trolling Reel

SLX-10CSb
Black
Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Saltwater Trolling Reel Cover
Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Open Top Frame Lever Drag Saltwater Trolling Reel, SLX-10CSb, 380yds-20lb, Black

The Okuma Solterra SLX High Speed Saltwater Trolling Reel is a durable and reliable fishing reel designed for saltwater trolling. Its stainless steel main gears, pinion gears, and shafts make it corrosion-resistant, while the carbonite drag system with Cal's universal drag grease provides smooth and consistent drag pressure. Additionally, the 2 thrust bearings reduce handle turning force by over 50%, and the double dog, silent anti-reverse on all models ensures a solid hook set every time.

What We Like
Durable and corrosion-resistant
Smooth and consistent drag pressure
Reduces handle turning force by over 50%
#TOP 4

PENN Fathom II 80LD2 Reel

FTHII80LD2
Multi
One Size
PENN Fathom II 80LD2 Reel Cover
Fathom II Lever Drag 2 Speed - 80LD2 Conv Reel Box

The PENN Fathom II Reel offers a robust lever drag system that allows you to control your fishing line with precision. This feature is essential for adjusting the tension during a catch, ensuring you can reel in your fish effectively. It also comes with a two-speed mechanism, giving you the flexibility to switch gears based on your needs. This can be particularly helpful when battling larger fish or when you need to reel in quickly. With its durable design, this reel is built to withstand tough conditions, making it a reliable choice for serious anglers.

What We Like
Precision lever drag system
Two-speed gear flexibility
Durable construction
Reliable for tough fishing
#TOP 5

Shimano TLD20IIA Fishing Reel

TLD20IIA
Multi
Shimano TLD20IIA Fishing Reel Cover
Shimano TLD20IIA 2-Speed Lever Drag Fishing Reel

The Shimano TLD20IIA Reel is designed for serious anglers looking for power and durability in their fishing gear. Its innovative 2-speed shifting mechanism allows you to easily adjust your retrieval speed, making it perfect for various saltwater species. The A-RB anti-rust bearings ensure that you can confidently use this reel in corrosive environments. You will appreciate the comfort offered by the ergonomic handles, which provide better grip and control while battling fish. Lightweight and user-friendly, this reel makes shifting gears feel almost effortless, enhancing your fishing experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
2-speed shifting mechanism
A-RB anti-rust bearings
Comfortable ergonomic handles
#TOP 6

PENN Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed Fishing Reel

FTH15XNLD2
Black Gold
15XN
PENN Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Fishing Penn Fathom Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 15XN (FTH15XNLD2)

The PENN Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed Fishing Reel is a compact yet powerful reel that comes with a Full Metal Body and sideplates, stainless steel main and pinion gear, and Dura-Drag washers. The Quick-Shift 2-speed system allows you to shift gears on the fly, while the 5 shielded stainless steel ball bearings provide smooth operation. This fishing reel is perfect for casting and is built to last.

What We Like
Durable full metal body and sideplates
Quick-Shift 2-speed system for flexible fishing experience
Stainless steel main and pinion gear for smooth operation
Dura-Drag washers for consistent drag pressure
5 shielded stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth and reliable operation
#TOP 7

PENN Fishing Squall Lever Drag Reel

1206093
Black Gold
30 - Right Handed
PENN Fishing Squall Lever Drag Reel Cover
PENN Squall Lever Drag Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Reel, Dura Drag Lever Drag, Max of 13lb | 5.8kg, Features Corrosion-Resistant Graphite Frame and Sideplates,Black/Gold

The PENN Squall Lever Drag Reel is a high-quality fishing reel that is trusted by professionals worldwide. It is made using only the best components and has been tested for both quality and durability. This conventional baitcast reel is capable of handling up to 25lb of weight and 350yd of line, making it a versatile option for any angler.

What We Like
Trusted by professionals worldwide
High-quality components
Durable and long-lasting
#TOP 8

Shimano Charter Special 2000

TR2000LD
Multi
One Size
Shimano Charter Special 2000 Cover
Shimano Charter Special 2000; Saltwater Lever Drag Reel

The Shimano Charter Special 2000 is a lightweight and dependable lever-drag reel designed specifically for saltwater fishing. It is equipped with a level-wind feature that provides excellent line control, making it ideal for using downriggers and for all types of saltwater trolling and jigging techniques. The reel is built to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing, with stainless steel gears and Anti-Rust Bearings that ensure durability and resistance to corrosion. Its aluminum spool, reinforced graphite frame, and graphite side plates make it lightweight yet solid and tough. With a maximum drag of 33 lbs and a gear ratio of 4.3:1, this reel offers power and precision. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, the Shimano Charter Special 2000 is a reliable choice that will provide many years of service.

What We Like
Lightweight and dependable
Durable and resistant to corrosion
Designed for various saltwater fishing techniques

Okuma Solterra SLX-30IIb

SLX-30IIb
Black
Okuma Solterra SLX-30IIb Cover
Okuma Solterra SLX Two Speed Closed Frame Lever Drag Reel Saltwater Trolling Reel, SLX-30IIb, 540yds-40lb, Black

Okuma Trolling Reel is equipped with stainless steel gears and shafts for durability. The corrosion-resistant frame ensures longevity in saltwater conditions. Its Carbonite drag system with Cal's universal drag grease provides smooth drag performance. The 2 thrust bearings reduce handle turning force by over 50%, making it easier for you to reel in your catch. Additionally, the double dog, silent anti-reverse feature enhances precision during fishing.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Corrosion-resistant frame
Smooth drag performance
#TOP 10

Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Big Game Fishing Reel

Channelmay
abc575273
Blue
Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Big Game Fishing Reel Cover
Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Big Game Fishing Reel CNC Machined 2 Speed 44lbs Lever Drag Deep Sea Boat Trolling Fishing Right Handed Only

This CNC machined reel comes with a double speed lever drag for saltwater jigging big game fishing. It is suitable for deep sea boat trolling and is designed for right-handed users. With 7 ball bearings and a one-way clutch anti-reverse system, this reel has a max strike drag of 44lbs/20KG, a gear ratio of 4.5:1/2.1:1, and a line capacity of 20lb/410yds. It is lightweight at 672grams/23.7oz.

What We Like
Double speed lever drag for big game fishing
Suitable for deep sea boat trolling
One-way clutch anti-reverse system
Max strike drag of 44lbs/20KG
Lightweight design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Whats better star drag or lever drag?

The star drag is used to progressively tighten the drag, some will have a ratchet system and some will not, they will just tighten the drag quietly....In Conclusion.

2. Is there drag on a baitcaster?

On most baitcaster reels, the drag mechanism is star-shaped and located next to the reel. Like the other reels, turn right to tighten the drag and left to loosen it.

3. What is a star drag on a baitcaster?

Truth Reels SG ReelLew's Carbon Fire BaitcastingShimano SLX ReelAbu Garcia Vengeance Low Profile 5 Ball Bearing Baitcast Fishing ReelSeigler Lever Drag SmokeShimano Curado DC ReelPENN Fathom Lever Drag ReelProFISHiency Krazy Baitcast ReelPenn Low Profile ReelLew's Super Duty 300 Baitcasting Reel SD3HShimano Torsa 40 Fishing Baitcast Reel Lever Drag Very GoodSaltwater Fishing Jigging Reel 2 Speed Lever Drag Round BaitcastingPenn International ReelTruth Lever Drag Conventional ReelKastking Rover Round Baitcasting Reel13 Fishing 1 Origin Baitcast ReelSougayilang Casting Reel 7.1:1 High Speed Fishing Reel Drag Power 10kg Fishing ReelsLew's Speed Cast ReelAbu Garcia Revo EXD Baitcast Reel

Editor's Notes

During our lever drag baitcasting fishing reel research, we found 24 lever drag baitcasting fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,353 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lever drag baitcasting fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose lever drag baitcasting fishing reels with an average price of $202.95.

The lever drag baitcasting fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lever drag baitcasting fishing reels, including SHIMANO, PENN, OKUMA, Channelmay. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 698 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.