Best Conventional Fishing Reels of 2025

The PENN Squall II Reel offers excellent features for fishing enthusiasts. The fast gear access side plate allows you to quickly reach the gears for easy adjustments, enhancing your fishing experience. With 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings, you get smooth operation and increased durability, making every cast effortless. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide consistent drag pressure, ensuring you can tackle tough catches confidently. Additionally, the lightweight graphite frame and sideplates help reduce fatigue during long fishing trips, allowing you to focus on the catch.

The Penn RIV15LW Rival Level Wind Reel is a lightweight graphite reel with auto-engaging gears, marine-grade bronze alloy main gear, and machine cut brass pinion gear. It features Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers for a smoother drag performance. This fishing reel is perfect for those who want a reliable and efficient reel for their fishing activities.

The Abu Garcia 6500 Ambassadeur S Round Baitcast Fishing Reel is available in both right and left-handed models. It features a 4-pin centrifugal brake system for consistent brake pressure throughout the cast, a smooth multi-disc drag system, and synchronized level-wind for better line lay. The compact bent handle and star provide a more ergonomic feel for anglers.

The KastKing ReKon Reel is designed for serious anglers targeting larger fish like Salmon and Catfish. Its durable construction features stainless-steel ball bearings and precision-machined gears, ensuring smooth operation even in tough saltwater conditions. You’ll appreciate the powerful drag system, providing up to 30 lbs of stopping power, which is essential for reeling in big catches. Plus, the line clicker function helps you detect strikes while trolling, enhancing your fishing experience. With an ergonomic handle that reduces hand fatigue, this reel is both powerful and comfortable to use.

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.

The Piscifun Salis X 5000 Round Baitcasting Reel is a powerful and durable reel designed for big game fishing in a variety of saltwater conditions. It features a 37lbs max drag, 6.2:1 gear ratio, braid ready spool, and a stainless steel crank handle. Customers have praised its smooth operation, fast retrieve, and incredible power. The only downside is that the lock screws and nut can strip easily.

The PENN Warfare Reel is designed for anglers who value both lightweight design and durability. Its corrosion-resistant graphite frame ensures longevity, while the forged aluminum spool adds strength and ease of use. With machined brass gears, you'll enjoy a quick recovery rate, making it easier to reel in your catch. The instant anti-reverse feature guarantees smooth handling, especially when you need it most. Plus, the HT-100 star drag system offers a maximum drag of 15lb, allowing you to tire out fish without exhausting yourself. This reel is a reliable companion for nearshore and offshore fishing adventures.

The Okuma Cortez Reel is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance for your fishing adventures. It has undergone rigorous testing for reliability, giving you confidence in its performance every time you hit the water. Used by professionals around the globe, this reel is designed to meet the demands of serious anglers like you. Manufactured in Japan, it reflects a commitment to quality and excellence, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced fishermen alike.

The Penn 209M General Purpose Level Wind Fishing Reel features a gear ratio of 3.2:1, a line capacity of 20/320, and a weight of 19 ounces. It also comes with bushings, a stainless steel reel stand, and a box in black color. The level wind feature helps to distribute the line evenly across the spool, making it easier for you to cast and retrieve. This reel is designed for general purpose fishing and can be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

The Burning Shark Trolling Reel is a high-performance saltwater level wind reel designed for boat fishing in the ocean. It features a double dog ratchet system to prevent handle reversing, a machined aluminum spool, bakelight sideplates, stainless steel gears for long-lasting durability, a smooth fishing reel seat, and a spherical handle. It has a max drag of 40 lbs and a gear ratio of 4.1:1. Customers have praised its durability, smoothness, and performance, though some have noted that the drag can be difficult to adjust.