Best Catfish Fishing Reels of 2025
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Catfish fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers, and having the right equipment can make all the difference. Catfish fishing reels are designed to handle the size and strength of these fish, making them an essential tool for any serious catfish angler. These reels typically have a larger line capacity and a high gear ratio, allowing for quick retrieval and strong drag systems to handle the weight of the fish. Many catfish fishing reels also feature anti-reverse mechanisms and durable construction to withstand the harsh conditions of fishing. With a quality catfish fishing reel, anglers can improve their chances of landing that trophy catfish.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Catfish Fishing Reels
Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Reel
The Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Reel is a professional grade round baitcasting reel with a CNC caved, anti-line skip aluminum spool, 6 + 1 anti-corrosion bearings, smooth consistent drag, extended forged handle, and a premium Carbon Fiber Drag System. It is designed to meet the demands of the most hardcore anglers and is suitable for a variety of species and techniques. Customers have praised its sturdy construction, smooth casting performance, and rock-solid durability.
Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a versatile tool that is perfect for freshwater and saltwater offshore fishing. It has large line capacities that can handle different lengths of braided or monofilament line. This reel is suitable for different techniques, including trolling and bottom fishing. It is an excellent weapon for trophy hunters going after big fish like catfish, walleye, and large saltwater species. The TSSD reel is a great gift for friends and family who love fishing, especially during important holidays like Christmas and New Year.
Catfish Pro Tournament Series Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The Catfish Pro Tournament Series Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel 600 CTS boasts 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings, infinite anti-reverse, and a powerful 19 pound drag. The multi-disc durable carbon matrix drag, centrifugal brake system, and synchronized level wind system make this reel an excellent choice for handling any size catfish. The thick anodized aluminum side cover, line out clicker alarm, and aluminum handle with comfortable EVA knob are also noteworthy features.
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel
The Quantum Optix spinning reel is perfect for catching heavy species such as catfish and striper. The reel features a strong and lightweight composite body, an aluminum spool, and a stainless steel bail wire. It has a QuickSet anti-reverse technology to create a solid hookset, a changeable right-or left-hand retrieve, and a TRU Balance rotor for balanced and smooth retrieves. With a 4.9:1 gear ratio and a line retrieval of 33 IPT, it provides speed and precision. The reel is covered by a 5-year protection against defects in workmanship and/or materials.
Catfish Pro Fishing Reel
Experience precise casting control with the advanced brake system, tackle large fish confidently with a powerful drag system, enjoy smooth fishing with stainless steel ball bearings, and ensure durability in challenging conditions with the robust construction of the Catfish Pro Reel. This reel is designed to prevent backlashes, handle big fish, offer smooth operation, and provide reliability, making it a great choice for all fishing enthusiasts.
Burning Shark ECT15R Fishing Reel
The Burning Shark ECT15R Fishing Reel, also known as the Burning Shark Trolling Reel, is a versatile and powerful round baitcasting reel perfect for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It features a smooth drag system with up to 22 LB / 10 KG of drag, providing you with the strength and control you need to handle big and tough fish like catfish, salmon, steelhead, and striped bass. The reel is equipped with 3 double shielded stainless-steel ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Its precision-cut brass gears and stainless steel pinion gear, along with the machined brass worm shafts and stainless-steel guide shaft, contribute to its durability and power. The reel also comes with an aluminum ratcheting drag star for precise drag settings. With its classic look, oversized handle knobs with non-slip grip, line out clicker alarm, and easy-access thumb bar spool release, the Burning Shark ECT15R Fishing Reel offers convenience and ease of use. It is backed by a full 36-month worry-free service with lifetime support, providing you with confidence and peace of mind.
Catfish Pro 600 STS Spinning Reel
The Catfish Pro Spinning Reel 600 STS is designed to elevate your fishing experience. With 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings and precision brass gears, this reel offers seamless control and power. The Live Liner System allows you to manage catfish bites with finesse, while the Centrifugal Brake System ensures controlled casting. Its robust 22-pound drag and durable aluminum spool make it ideal for tackling catfish of any size. The ergonomic design, available in right and left-handed configurations, provides comfort and versatility for every angler.
Sougayilang Fishing Reel - Warrior 4000
The Sougayilang Warrior 4000 is a powerful and smooth round baitcasting reel with a reinforced metal body, supreme star drag, and versatile functionality for freshwater and saltwater fishing. With up to 22lb/10kg drag, premium stainless steel bearings, and synchronized level wind system, this reel delivers smooth and consistent performance. The reel is perfect for trolling, casting bottom fishing, and other techniques. It comes with over-sized handle knobs, line out clicker alarm, easy access thumb bar spool release, and a classic round baitcasting fishing reel look.
Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel
The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel is a powerful and reliable reel with all-metal gears and ceramic pickup pin. It features QuickSet Anti-Reverse, a built-in Bite Alert, and a dial-adjustable Magnum drag. It has a 2.6:1 gear ratio, 19 IPT, and 145 yds/20 lb mono line capacity. Pre-spooled with 20 lb Zebco line, this reel is perfect for any angler. Trusted since 1954, Zebco Brands offers a one-year warranty against defects in workmanship and/or materials.
Catfish Pro Fishing for Fun Spinning Reel
The Catfish Pro Spinning Reel is designed for effortless casting and control, making your fishing experience more enjoyable. With its advanced braking system, you can easily avoid frustrating backlashes, allowing you to focus on your technique. Enjoy smooth operation thanks to high-quality steel ball bearings and precision gears, ensuring reliable performance on every cast. Its durable construction means it can withstand tough fishing conditions, while the comfortable grip knob provides a secure hold, enhancing your overall fishing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What size reel is best for catfish?
For catfish, most anglers prefer a size 30/300 or larger spinning reel. While experienced anglers can land big catfish with size 10 or 20 reels, larger sizes like 30/300 or 50 are recommended. These reels provide the necessary line capacity and strength to handle catfish.
2. Which of the 4 types of fishing reels is the easiest to use?
The spincast reel is recognized as the easiest reel to use, making it perfect for beginners and children. Its simple design and push-button operation make casting and reeling in fish easy and hassle-free.
3. What size rod and reel for catfish?
When fishing for catfish, a longer rod is preferred. Most catfish anglers use rods between seven and eight feet in length. As for the reel, a size 30/300 or larger spinning reel is recommended to handle catfish.
4. What action rod is best for catfish?
For catfishing, a fast or moderate action rod is preferred. Among catfish anglers using circle hooks, a moderate fast action rod is the most popular choice. These action types provide the right balance of sensitivity and strength for catfish fishing.
5. What length of rod for catfishing?
A catfish rod should be at least 7 feet long. This length provides advantages for various catfishing techniques, including shore fishing. Some anglers may opt for longer rods, up to ten feet, depending on their fishing style and target locations.
6. What are the disadvantages of a spincast reel?
Spincast reels have a few disadvantages compared to other reel types. They tend to be bulkier, less durable, and have limited drag ability. The line can also tangle, twist, or tear more easily. Additionally, spincast reels lack distance control and are not designed for long-term use.
During our catfish fishing reel research, we found 24 catfish fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 26,045 customer reviews through our big data system to write the catfish fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose catfish fishing reels with an average price of $55.35.
The catfish fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of catfish fishing reels, including Piscifun, Sougayilang, Catfish Pro, Quantum, Burning Shark. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,081 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.
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.