Best Ambidextrous Fishing Reels of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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Ambidextrous fishing reels are the perfect solution for anglers who are both left and right-handed. These reels are designed with a symmetrical body and handle, making them easy to operate with either hand. With an ambidextrous reel, anglers can switch hands quickly and easily, without having to reposition the reel or adjust their grip. This can be particularly helpful when casting in tight spaces or when trying to quickly reel in a fish. Ambidextrous reels are available in a variety of styles and sizes, making them a versatile option for all types of fishing.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 1
Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 2
Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SHIMANO SN1000RE Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
SHIMANO SN1000RE Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ambidextrous Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel

AV-8000
Silver/Gold
Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel Cover
Okuma, Avenger New Generation Spinning Reel, 4.8:1 Gear Ratio, 38.30" Retrieve Rate, 35 lb Max Drag, Ambidextrous

The Okuma Avenger Reel is designed to enhance your fishing experience with its impressive features. The multi-disc drag system, crafted with Japanese oiled felt, ensures smooth line control, allowing you to handle tough catches with ease. With 6 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, this reel delivers exceptional smoothness during retrieval, making every cast feel effortless. The quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing offers instant hook setting, giving you the confidence to respond quickly when a fish bites. This combination of features makes the Okuma Avenger Reel a reliable choice for anglers looking for performance and durability.

What We Like
Smooth drag system
Effortless retrieval
Quick hook setting
Durable construction
#TOP 2

Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel

EPXT-20
Multi
EPXT-20, 110yds-6lb
Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel Cover
Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel, 20, 5.0: 1 Gear Ratio, 23.90" Retrieve Rate, 11 lb Max Drag, Ambidextrous

The Okuma EPXT-20 Epixor XT Spinning Reel is a fishing reel with 7Bb+1rb stainless steel bearings, precision machine cut brass pinion gear, and Torsion Control Armor that reduces twisting. It has a gear ratio of 5.0:1 and a retrieve rate of 23.90".

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Smooth and efficient operation
Reduces twisting for better control
#TOP 3

SHIMANO SN1000RE Fishing Reel

SN1000RE
Multi
One Size
SHIMANO SN1000RE Fishing Reel Cover
SHIMANO SN1000RE Spinning Fishing Reel, Ambidextrous, Multi Color, Cold Forged HAGANE Gears, 0.59 pounds, 36 inches Retrieve, 9 pounds Max Drag

The SHIMANO Fishing Reel is designed for versatility and ease of use, making it suitable for all anglers. Its ambidextrous design allows you to fish comfortably, whether you are left or right-handed. The cold-forged HAGANE gears provide durability and smooth operation, enhancing your overall fishing experience. Weighing only 0.59 pounds, this reel is lightweight, reducing fatigue during long fishing trips. With a 36-inch retrieve and a maximum drag of 9 pounds, you can handle various fish sizes with confidence, ensuring you have a reliable tool at your side.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Durable HAGANE gears
Ambidextrous usability
High maximum drag
Efficient retrieve rate

Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel

808J.SC3
Black
Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel Cover
Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel, Powerful All Metal Gears, Quickset Anti-Reverse and Bite Alert, Pre-spooled with 20-Pound Zebco Fishing Line, Clam Pack, Black

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel is a powerful and sturdy fishing reel that ensures you reel in big catches. It comes with a QuickSet Anti-Reverse system and a built-in Bite Alert for added convenience. The dial-adjustable Magnum drag ensures you have a smooth and comfortable fishing experience. It has all-metal gears, a ceramic Pick-up Pin, and a patented no-tangle design that makes it easy to use. It also comes pre-spooled with 20 lb Zebco line, making it ready to use straight out of the box. The 808 is trustworthy and durable, making it an ideal choice for fishing enthusiasts.

What We Like
Powerful and durable
Pre-spooled with 20 lb Zebco line
QuickSet Anti-Reverse system and a built-in Bite Alert for added convenience
#TOP 5

FishQueen Centron Lite Fishing Reel

FishQueen
BLACK
Large
FishQueen Centron Lite Fishing Reel Cover
FishQueen Fishing Reel Centron Lite Spinning Reels - Ultra-Lightweight Full Metal Fishing Reel with Smooth Performance for Ultimate Angling Adventures -22Lbs-Ambidextrous, Large

The FishQueen Centron Lite Reel is built with a strong all-metal body and rotor, ensuring it can withstand tough fishing conditions. Whether you fish with your left or right hand, its adjustable handle makes it user-friendly for everyone. With a powerful drag system that supports up to 22 pounds, you can confidently tackle various fish species. Additionally, its ultra-lightweight design allows you to fish all day without feeling fatigued, making it a great choice for dedicated anglers seeking comfort and performance.

What We Like
Durable metal construction
Ambidextrous handle design
Strong drag capability
Lightweight for comfort
#TOP 6

SOPOGER Spincast Fishing Reel Kit

Silver
SOPOGER Spincast Fishing Reel Kit Cover
SOPOGER Spincast Fishing Reel for Compound Bow Recurve Bow Crossbow Slingshot, Ambidextrous Bowfishing Reel Kit with Bow Fishing Reel Mount Seat and Strong Smooth Line (8LB/100YDS - 40meter)

The SOPOGER Spincast Reel is designed to make fishing easy and enjoyable for everyone. With a user-friendly push-button outlet and adjustable resistance, you can quickly adapt to your fishing style, whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler. The reel features a 3.3:1 gear ratio that allows for faster line retrieval, enhancing your chances of catching fish. Plus, it comes pre-spooled with 40 meters of high-quality line, so you’re ready to start fishing right away. Its reversible handle accommodates both left and right-handed users, making it versatile for all anglers.

What We Like
User-friendly design
Fast line retrieval
Pre-spooled for convenience
Reversible handle for all users
#TOP 7

Okuma Sierra Fly Reel

SX-7/8
black
9.10"
Okuma Sierra Fly Reel Cover
Okuma, Sierra Fly Reel, 9.10" Retrieve Rate, 2+1 Bearings, 7/8 Line Weight, Ambidextrous , black

The Okuma Sierra Fly Reel, designed for fishing reels category, features a multi-disc composite system, roller bearing that engages drag in one direction, an ALC Aluminite diecast aluminum frame, and a rigid diecast aluminum, larger arbor spool. The reel also allows for an easy-to-change left to right hand retrieval conversion, making it a versatile option for both left and right-handed anglers.

What We Like
Versatile option for both left and right-handed anglers with its easy-to-change retrieval conversion.
Features a multi-disc composite system and roller bearing that engages drag in one direction for precise and smooth operation.
ALC Aluminite diecast aluminum frame and a larger arbor spool design provide durability and strength.
#TOP 8

Okuma Sierra Fly Reel

SX-4/5
black
6.30"
Okuma Sierra Fly Reel Cover
Okuma, Sierra Fly Reel, 6.30" Retrieve Rate, 2+1 Bearings, 4/5 Line Weight, Ambidextrous black

The Okuma Sierra Reel is designed with a multi-disc, composite drag system that allows for smooth adjustments while you fish. This feature ensures that you can easily manage line tension, giving you more control during your catch. Additionally, the roller bearing engages the drag in one direction, which provides reliable performance and prevents backlash. The durable Alumilite diecast aluminum frame enhances the reel's strength while keeping it lightweight, making it easier for you to handle. Finally, its unisex design means it's suitable for any angler, allowing everyone to enjoy a great fishing experience.

What We Like
Smooth drag adjustments
Reliable performance
Lightweight yet strong
Unisex design
#TOP 9

Okuma Aria Spinning Reel

ARIA-20a
Grey
One Size
Okuma Aria Spinning Reel Cover
Okuma ARIA-20a Aria Spinning Reel, 20 Reel Size, 4.8: 1 Gear Ratio, 23.90" Retrieve Rate, 1 Bearing, Ambidextrous

The Okuma Aria Spinning Reel, also known as the Okuma Aria Reel, is a high-quality fishing reel designed for smoothness and durability. Equipped with multi-disc, Japanese oiled felt drag washers, this reel provides excellent control over the line tension, allowing you to easily handle different fishing situations. The 1 ball bearing drive ensures smooth operation, while the precision machine cut brass pinion gear offers reliable performance. With a 4.8:1 gear ratio and a 23.90" retrieve rate, this reel allows for quick and efficient line retrieval. The Okuma Aria Reel is perfect for both left and right-handed anglers, thanks to its ambidextrous design. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, this reel will enhance your fishing experience with its superior features and functionality.

What We Like
Smooth and durable
Excellent line tension control
Quick and efficient line retrieval
#TOP 10

DAIWA 21EM45SCW-QDSD Emblem 45 SCW QD SD 5000 Fishing Reel

Emblem
black
5000SD
DAIWA 21EM45SCW-QDSD Emblem 45 SCW QD SD 5000 Fishing Reel Cover
DAIWA 21 Emblem 45 SCW QD SD Ambidextrous Big Fish Fishing Reel Carp Fishing Reel Front Brake 10158-700

The DAIWA 21EM45SCW-QDSD Emblem 45 SCW QD SD 5000 is a big pit and carp fishing reel that comes with a longcast feature, making it easy to cast your line further. With a gear ratio of 4.9:1 and a lineretrieve of 41 inches, this reel is lightweight at 22.75 ounces, yet has a dragforce of 33 lbs. Additionally, it comes with an aluminium sparespool, making it a versatile option for any fishing enthusiast.

What We Like
The longcast feature allows you to cast your line further, making it easier to catch fish from a distance.
The lightweight design makes it easy to handle and reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions.
The dragforce of 33 lbs gives you the power to catch bigger fish with ease.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an ambidextrous fishing reel?

This Reel Is Ambidextrous with the Convenient Changeable Right- Or Left-Hand Retrieve Option and Pre-Spooled with 25-Pound Zebco Fishing Line So You Can Start Catching Catfish, Striper and Saltwater Fish Sooner. BUILT-IN BITE ALERT: You Will Be Amazed by the Audio Indicator to Alert Anglers of Activity Below the Water.

2. Are there left and right-handed fishing reels?

Just like spinning, if you are right-handed (casting and holding the rod in the right hand) use a reel that has the crank handle on the left side (labeled as “left-handed”). Left-handed anglers should choose a baitcasting reel with the crank handle on the right side (labeled as “right-handed”).

3. Why are most fishing reels left-handed?

Having the reel handle on the left side frees up your dominant, and thus, stronger, hand to hold the rod. This is particularly helpful when you hook into a large fish. Your stronger arm can be used to work the rod on a large fish, while your weaker hand simply turns the reel handle.

4. Are Penn reels ambidextrous?

Penn Torque II Spinning Reel - 7500, 6.0:1 Gear Ratio, 50" Retrieve Rate, 50 lb Max Drag, Ambidextrous.

Editor's Notes

During our ambidextrous fishing reel research, we found 24 ambidextrous fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,245 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ambidextrous fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose ambidextrous fishing reels with an average price of $28.22.

The ambidextrous fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ambidextrous fishing reels, including OKUMA, SHIMANO, Zebco, FishQueen, SOPOGER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.