Best Inshore Fishing Reels of 2025

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

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Inshore fishing reels are specifically designed for fishing in shallow waters, such as bays, estuaries, and nearshore areas. These reels are lightweight, compact, and easy to handle, making them ideal for catching smaller fish species such as redfish, speckled trout, and snook. They are equipped with high-quality bearings and drag systems that provide smooth and reliable performance, even when battling larger fish. Inshore fishing reels come in a variety of sizes and styles, including spinning reels, baitcasting reels, and conventional reels, allowing anglers to choose the best option for their preferred fishing technique.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN Battle II & III Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN Battle II & III Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PENN Battle II Spinning Reel 6000 Cover #TOP 2
PENN Battle II Spinning Reel 6000
ftb score rating icon 9.7
PENN Wrath Spinning Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
PENN Wrath Spinning Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Inshore Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

PENN Battle II & III Spinning Reel

BTLIII2500
Black Gold
2500
PENN Battle II & III Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Battle III Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Front Drag, max of 12lb | 6kg, Made with Sturdy All-Aluminum Composition for Durability, Black Gold

The PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel is a full metal body and sideplate reel with CNC Gear technology, HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, and a 5 plus 1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system. It is an ambidextrous reel made of aluminum and designed for spinning fishing. Customers have praised its durability, smoothness, and power for catching big fish.

What We Like
Full metal body and sideplate
CNC Gear technology
HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers
5 plus 1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system
Durable and smooth
#TOP 2

PENN Battle II Spinning Reel 6000

PURIV2500
Black Silver
2500
PENN Battle II Spinning Reel 6000 Cover
PENN Battle II Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, Size 6000 (PURIV2500), HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 25lb, 6 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Built with Carbon Fiber Drag Washers, Black Silver

The PENN Battle II Reel is designed for anglers who value both aesthetics and performance. Its durable construction, featuring a full metal body and rotor, ensures precision even in tough conditions. You’ll appreciate the smooth gear recovery rate of 41 inches per turn, making each catch easier. With six sealed stainless steel ball bearings, you can expect quick hook-ups, enhancing your fishing experience. The HT-100 front drag system, equipped with carbon fiber washers, provides a maximum drag of 25 pounds, allowing you to tire out fish without exhausting yourself.

What We Like
Durable metal construction
Smooth gear recovery
Quick hook-ups
High maximum drag
#TOP 3

PENN Wrath Spinning Fishing Reel

1505205
Black, Blue
4000
PENN Wrath Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Wrath Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, Oil Felt Front Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Made with a Lightweight, Corrosion-Resistant Graphite Body,Black/Blue

The PENN Wrath Spinning Fishing Reel is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant graphite body with 2 shielded stainless steel ball bearings, an instant anti-reverse bearing, a machined and anodized aluminum spool, and line capacity rings. These features aim to provide convenience and benefits to users, such as smoother operation, durability, and accuracy.

What We Like
Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Smooth operation
Durable and accurate

PENN Battle III Spinning Reel

BTLIII4000HS
Black and Red
4000
PENN Battle III Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Battle III Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Front Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Made with Sturdy All-Aluminum Composition for Durability, 4000, Black and Red

The PENN Battle III Spinning Reel is an award-winning saltwater reel that offers superior strength, smoothness, and durability. Its all-aluminum construction, including the body, sideplates, and forged and machined aluminum spool, ensures long-lasting performance. With CNC gear technology and a gear ratio of 7.0:1, this reel recovers line quickly, making it perfect for fast-paced fishing. It features 6 total bearings, including 5 stainless steel ball bearings and 1 instant anti-reverse bearing, for smooth operation. The HT-100 front drag system, with a max drag of 15lb (6.8kg), can handle large fish without wearing you down. With its versatile design and high-quality features, the PENN Battle III Spinning Reel is a reliable choice for any saltwater fishing adventure.

What We Like
Durable
Fast line recovery
Smooth operation
#TOP 5

PENN Spinfisher VI Saltwater Reel

Spinfisher VI
Black Gold
4500
PENN Spinfisher VI Saltwater Reel Cover
PENN Spinfisher VI Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Front Drag, Max of 20lb | 9.0kg, Made with an All-Metal Reel Body and Spool Design, 4500, Black Gold

The PENN Spinfisher VI Saltwater Reel offers an IPX5 sealed body and spool design that can effectively protect the gear from saltwater corrosion. The CNC gear technology and 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system provide a smooth and powerful operation. Additionally, it features a convenient rod holder that can keep your expensive rods off the ground to avoid damage.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant body and spool design
Smooth and powerful operation
Convenient rod holder

Sougayilang Smooth 11BB Fishing Reel

11BB-DK1000
Multicolor
DK1000
Sougayilang Smooth 11BB Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Reels Smooth 11BB for Inshore Boat Rock Freshwater Saltwater Fishing-DK1000

Experience smooth and effortless fishing with Sougayilang's Spinning Fishing Reels. With a 5.2:1 gear ratio and 11BB, this reel provides maximum power and precision. The CNC machine-cut ABS collapsible handle is convenient for both left and right-handed users. The fully adjustable cast control with sound and S-curve oscillation system ensure excellent line winding, while the high-tensile gear and aluminum spool provide durability. Suitable for various fishing positions, such as ocean boat, rock, beach, lake, river, reservoir pond, and stream, this reel is perfect for any angler. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact Sougayilang's customer service for assistance.

What We Like
Smooth reeling experience
11 ball bearings
Stylish design
Affordable price
Durable
#TOP 7

Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Fishing Reel

Piscifun-RL175-R
Blue
Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Fishing Reel Cover
Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Fishing Reel, Reinforced Metal Body Round Baitcaster Reel, Smooth Powerful Saltwater Inshore Surf Trolling Reel, Conventional Reel for Catfish (40 Right Handed)

The Piscifun Chaos XS Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a professional grade fishing reel designed to meet the demands of hardcore anglers. Its innovative cast technology ensures smoother and longer casting distance while reducing the chance of backlash. The 7075 aircraft grade aluminum frame reduces the weight of the reel by 10% without sacrificing strength and durability. The premium carbon fiber drag system paired with a Japanese Haimai-Cut brass main gear provides up to 22 pounds of stopping power to stop trophy fish in their tracks. The round baitcasting reel also features premium 6+1 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings for smooth operation.

What We Like
Professional grade and built to last
Innovative cast technology for smoother and longer casting distance
Lightweight and durable
Powerful carbon fiber drag system
Premium stainless steel ball bearings for smooth operation
#TOP 8

PENN Fierce III Spinning Reel

Fierce III
Red, Black
3000 - Box
PENN Fierce III Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Fierce III Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel, Size 3000, Right/Left Handle Position, Front Drag for Smooth Operation, Saltwater Fishing Reel, Red, Black

The PENN Fierce III Spinning Reel is a sturdy all-aluminum fishing reel designed for saltwater fishing. With a gear ratio of 6.2:1 and a techno-balanced rotor, it provides smooth retrieves at a rate of 35”89cm with every turn of the crank. Equipped with 5 stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 instant anti-reverse bearing, this reel ensures smooth operation for any saltwater fishing experience. The HT-100 front drag system, built with carbon fiber washers, offers a max drag of 15lb6.8kg, allowing you to handle big fish without wearing yourself down. Additionally, the SUPERLINE SPOOL enables you to securely attach slick, braided line, while the heavy-duty aluminum bail wire aids with precision casts.

What We Like
Durable all-aluminum body
Smooth retrieves with techno-balanced rotor
HT-100 front drag system with carbon fiber washers
#TOP 9

Penn RIV15LW Rival Level Wind Reel

RIV15LW RIVAL 15 LW REEL BOX
Black/Silver
RIV15LW
Penn RIV15LW Rival Level Wind Reel Cover
PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Inshore/Nearshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool,Black/Silver

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.

What We Like
Lightweight graphite frame and sideplates
Auto-engaging gears for efficient and reliable performance
Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers for smoother drag performance

Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series

ZF-SFL10000
Blue- SFL10000
Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Cover
Sougayilang Spinning Reels 10000 Series Surf Fishing Reels, Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminum Spool, Inshore & Offshore Saltwater Fishing

The Sougayilang Surf Fishing Reels are designed for saltwater and freshwater fishing. With a lightweight graphite body, rotor, and side plates, these reels are corrosion resistant and perfect for the harsh surf environment. The long cast 2-tone anodized aluminum spool helps stabilize your fishing line and allows for accurate casting, even on windy days. The intrusion shield system keeps water and dirt out, ensuring the longevity of the reel. The powerful CNC Brass main gear and Brass Pinion gear provide enough strength to handle big fish. The steady oscillation, reinforced aluminum handle, and interchangeable right or left handle make these reels reliable and versatile. The high-intensity graphite frame enhances strength and durability, making these reels perfect for offshore big game fishing. With the Sougayilang Surf Fishing Reels, you can enjoy worry-free fishing with their 1-year service guarantee.

What We Like
Corrosion resistant
Powerful CNC Brass gears
Steady oscillation
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What reel size is best for inshore fishing?

What Size Reel for Inshore Fishing ? The best size reel for inshore fishing will be something in the range of a 3000 to a 4000. If you are casting all day for speckled trout or redfish then chances are that a size 5000 spinning reel would be a little too heavy.

2. What is an inshore reel?

Inshore reels are designed for use in shallower waters near the shore. Some are lighter and are more suited for smaller fish, but there are some larger inshore reels as well for the bigger species. We carry a robust selection of inshore reels from top brands like Shimano, Daiwa, Penn and more.

3. Is there a difference between saltwater and freshwater spinning reels?

Saltwater reels are designed with special castings to resist saltwater corrosion. The main difference between saltwater and freshwater gear is the ability of saltwater gear to withstand the corrosive environment it is subjected to. Saltwater is a harsh liquid and it has the ability to corrode solid metal structures.

Editor's Notes

During our inshore fishing reel research, we found 24 inshore fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 94,217 customer reviews through our big data system to write the inshore fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose inshore fishing reels with an average price of $75.93.

The inshore fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of inshore fishing reels, including PENN, Sougayilang, Piscifun. 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.