Best Diving Reels of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Diving reels are an essential tool for scuba divers, providing a safe and efficient way to explore the underwater world. These reels come in a variety of sizes and styles, but all have the same basic purpose: to provide a way to control the diver's movement through the water. Some reels are designed for use with a single line, while others have multiple lines for added versatility. Many modern diving reels feature advanced features like automatic locking mechanisms, ergonomic handles, and durable construction materials to ensure they withstand the rigors of underwater use. Whether diving for fun or conducting research, a high-quality diving reel is an indispensable piece of equipment for any scuba diver.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Scuba Choice Multi Purpose Dive Reel, 150' Cover #TOP 1
Scuba Choice Multi Purpose Dive Reel, 150'
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Dive Rite Finger Reel with Brass Clip Wreck Scuba Diving Tech Spool 120' - Orange (RE4) Cover #TOP 2
Dive Rite Finger Reel with Brass Clip Wreck Scuba Diving Tech Spool 120' - Orange (RE4)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SAEKODIVE 150ft Dive Reel Cover #TOP 3
SAEKODIVE 150ft Dive Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Diving Reels

#TOP 1

Scuba Choice Multi Purpose Dive Reel, 150'

SCDR-01-PRT
Orange
5 x 5 x 2"
Scuba Choice Multi Purpose Dive Reel, 150' Cover
Scuba Choice Diving Dive Reel, 150ft White Line, Plastic Handle, Orange with 2" Clip – Multi-Purpose, Ideal for Scuba Diving, Spearfishing, and Underwater Adventures

The Scuba Choice Multi Purpose Dive Reel is a scuba diving reel with a diameter of 4 inches and a length of 150ft. It features a plastic handle that makes it easier to pull back the line, and a 2-inch clip is attached. This reel is ideal for a variety of diving activities.

What We Like
Durable and well-made
Easy to use and pull back the line
Suitable for various diving activities
#TOP 2

Dive Rite Finger Reel with Brass Clip Wreck Scuba Diving Tech Spool 120' - Orange (RE4)

Orange
120'
Dive Rite Finger Reel with Brass Clip Wreck Scuba Diving Tech Spool 120' - Orange (RE4) Cover
Dive Rite Finger Reel with Brass Clip Wreck Scuba Diving Tech Spool 120' - Orange (RE4)

The Dive Rite Finger Reel is a high-quality spool designed for scuba divers. Its smooth and compact design makes it easy to handle, with a width and diameter optimized for a perfect fit in your hand. Rounded inner corners allow the spool to spin freely between your fingers when deploying line, while lightly scalloped edges provide a secure grip. The Dive Rite Finger Reel also features a unique design that prevents the line from spinning on the spool while winding, allowing you to quickly remove the end of the line without untying knots. Modified diamond cutouts accent the spool's unique appearance while making it easy to clip the included marine grade bolt snap into a full spool. This spool is crafted from high-quality POM acetal plastic and is available in your choice of white Dupont or orange Dacron braided line.

What We Like
Smooth and compact
Rounded inner corners
Unique design prevents line spinning
#TOP 3

SAEKODIVE 150ft Dive Reel

Saekodive
AR-14
Blue
150 ft
SAEKODIVE 150ft Dive Reel Cover
SAEKODIVE 150ft Aluminum Dive Reel with Tension and Locking System - Rope Reel, Scuba Diving Reel, Kayak Anchor Reel, String Line Reel

The SAEKODIVE Dive Reel is a versatile tool perfect for various water activities. With a robust 150ft nylon line, it serves multiple purposes, from scuba diving to kayaking. The reel's lightweight yet durable aluminum frame ensures easy handling and prevents corrosion, making it ideal for underwater use. Additionally, the built-in tension and locking system allows you to manage the line effortlessly, preventing tangles and ensuring safety. Finally, the large handle enhances usability, making it easier for you to reel in the line during your adventures.

What We Like
Multi-purpose functionality
Lightweight and durable
Tension and locking system
Easy to use
#TOP 4

Scuba Choice Stainless Steel Dive Reel

SCDR-07-BK
Black
290-Feet
Scuba Choice Stainless Steel Dive Reel Cover
Scuba Choice Diving Stainless Steel Heavy Duty Multi-Purpose Dive Reel, 290-Feet, Black

The Scuba Choice Dive Reel is a heavy-duty, multi-purpose diving reel designed to provide better control, convenience, and safety during your diving experience. With a diameter of 4", this reel is made of polymer construction and comes with a 290ft white line. The Skip/Free/Stop switch allows you to have better control of the reel, making it easier to handle and adjust according to your needs. Additionally, the Scuba Choice Dive Reel comes with two clips attached, making it easier to attach to your diving gear. This reel is perfect for divers who want a durable and reliable reel that can be used for a variety of purposes, including cave diving, wreck diving, and more.

What We Like
Durable
Multi-purpose
Easy to control
Comes with two clips
#TOP 5

Owekfifv Scuba Dive Reel with Thumb Stopper

Owekfifv
NW-6XZW-UZCN
Blue+yellow Line
Owekfifv Scuba Dive Reel with Thumb Stopper Cover
Scuba Dive Reel with Thumb Stopper, 150ft Hi-visibility Retractable Line Diving Reel Finger Spool with Handle Stop Switch for Cave and Wreck, Kayaking, Spear Fishing, SMB Blue+Yellow Line

The Owekfifv Scuba Dive Reel is a high-quality diving reel designed for various underwater activities. It features a thumb/finger stopper that allows for easy control of line releases, making it convenient for cave and wreck diving. The reel is equipped with a 150-foot nylon braided rope white line, offering both strong strength and high visibility. This makes it easier for divers to locate the line once it has been paid out. Made of durable ABS plastic and corrosion-resistant chrome-plated bass steel, the reel is built to withstand the harsh underwater environment. Additionally, the Owekfifv Scuba Dive Reel has a compact and portable design, making it convenient to carry and store during outdoor use. Whether you're kayaking, spear fishing, or using it for other activities like flying kites, this diving reel is a versatile and reliable tool.

What We Like
Thumb/finger stopper for easy line control
150-foot high visibility line
Durable ABS plastic construction
#TOP 6

Scuba Choice Dive Reel 150'

SCDR-01-BK
Black
Scuba Choice Dive Reel 150' Cover
Scuba Choice Scuba Diving Multi Purpose Dive Reel 150', Black

The Scuba Choice Dive Reel is designed for convenience and efficiency during your diving adventures. With a 150-foot length of white line, you can easily manage your diving activities and ensure safety underwater. The reel features a plastic handle, making it simple to retract the line when needed, allowing you to focus on your dive without hassle. Additionally, the 4-inch diameter of the reel provides a sturdy grip, ensuring you can handle it comfortably. A 2-inch clip is also attached to secure the reel, giving you peace of mind while you explore the depths.

What We Like
Long 150-foot line
Easy-to-use plastic handle
Comfortable 4-inch diameter
Secure 2-inch clip
#TOP 7

Fiozinx 100FT Scuba Diving Reel

Fiozinx
Large
Fiozinx 100FT Scuba Diving Reel Cover
100FT Scuba Diving Reel Large Scuba Spool Finger Reel with Double-Ended Bolt Snap Clip for Underwater Scuba Diving Snorkeling Spearfishing

The Fiozinx Diving Reel is designed for convenience and safety while exploring underwater. Its large center hole allows for easy handling, even with gloves, ensuring you won't hurt your fingers while managing the line. The bright orange nylon line is highly visible, making it easy to track during your dive. Crafted from durable materials, this reel features a scalloped edge for a secure grip, enhancing your control. Plus, the stainless steel double-ended bolt snap provides a strong and reliable connection, fitting perfectly in your BCD pocket or on a D-ring.

What We Like
High visibility line
Durable and lightweight
Comfortable grip design
Corrosion-resistant materials
#TOP 8

Seafard Compact 150ft Dive Reel

1-2021AAA-150
Yellow
Seafard Compact 150ft Dive Reel Cover
Seafard Compact 150ft Scuba Dive Reel Kayak Anchor with Thumb Stopper for Safety Underwater Diving Snorkeling Yellow

The Seafard Dive Reel is an essential tool for underwater enthusiasts. With its thumb stopper, you can easily manage line release and control your ascent, enhancing your safety while diving. The strong nylon braided line, measuring 150ft, ensures durability and reliability for various activities, from cave diving to kayaking. This reel also features a large handle, making it convenient to operate even with gloved hands. Its robust construction from high-quality materials guarantees long-lasting use, giving you peace of mind as you explore underwater environments.

What We Like
Versatile for multiple activities
Easy line control
Durable nylon line
Convenient large handle
Strong construction
#TOP 9

Pecihiko Scuba Diving Reel

Pecihiko
EFC-01
Pecihiko Scuba Diving Reel Cover
Pecihiko Scuba Diving Reel, Aluminum Alloy Wreck Cave Finger Spool with 30m/100ft High Visibility Line and Double-Ended Bolt Snap Clip Fits for Outdoor Diving Activities Fluorescent Green

The Pecihiko Diving Reel is designed for smooth line deployment, thanks to its anodized aluminum alloy construction. You will appreciate the high visibility line, which is 100 feet long and prevents tangling, making it easier to track underwater. The included stainless steel double-ended bolt snap clip ensures that your gear remains secure and corrosion-resistant, providing peace of mind during your dives. Additionally, the reel features lightly scalloped edges that offer a firm grip, simplifying the process of winding the line without the risk of tangling your fingers. This makes it an essential tool for all your diving adventures.

What We Like
Durable aluminum alloy construction
High visibility line
Secure double-ended clip
Easy line winding
#TOP 10

Scuba Choice Diving Finger Spool

SCDR-05O-Y
Yellow
Scuba Choice Diving Finger Spool Cover
Scuba Choice Diving Yellow Compact Finger Spool 65ft Dive Reel- Orange Line

Scuba Choice Spool is a compact and durable diving reel made in Taiwan. It is perfect for divers who want to explore the underwater world with ease and safety. The reel is made of high-quality materials and has a bright orange line that is easy to see even in low visibility conditions. The item package dimensions are 4.064 L X 14.223 W X 19.812 H (Cm) and it weighs only 0.154 Kilograms, making it easy to carry around. With 65ft of line, this spool is ideal for short to medium distance diving. The Scuba Choice Spool is an excellent choice for any diving enthusiast looking for a reliable and easy-to-use spool.

What We Like
Compact
Durable
Bright line
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of a dive reel?

A dive reel serves several purposes for divers. It can be used to maintain contact with surface support, guide divers back to a starting point, or assist in search and retrieval operations. Dive reels are essential tools that provide divers with control and navigation underwater.

2. What size reel is good for sharks?

When targeting sharks, it is recommended to use a reel with a maximum drag of at least 40 pounds and a line capacity of at least 800 yards of 50lbs test. The choice between a spinning or conventional level wind reel type depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the dive.

3. What is the maximum depth for cave diving?

The maximum depth for cave diving can vary, and it depends on various factors such as training, equipment, and experience. The world record for a human underwater cave dive is 927 feet, held by Nuno Gomes in South Africa's Boesmansgat cave. However, it is important to note that cave diving at such depths requires extensive training, preparation, and adherence to proper decompression schedules.

Editor's Notes

During our diving reel research, we found 24 diving reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,050 customer reviews through our big data system to write the diving reels list. We found that most customers choose diving reels with an average price of $23.71.

The diving reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of diving reels, including Scuba Choice, Dive Rite, Saekodive, Owekfifv, Fiozinx. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.