Best Low Profile Fishing Reels of 2025

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

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Low profile fishing reels are a popular choice among anglers due to their compact size and ease of use. These reels are designed to sit low on the fishing rod, providing a comfortable grip and reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. They are also lightweight and offer smooth casting and retrieval, making them ideal for catching small to medium-sized fish. Many low profile fishing reels feature advanced technology such as magnetic brakes and adjustable drag systems, which allow anglers to fine-tune their fishing experience for optimal performance. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, a low profile fishing reel is a great investment for your next fishing trip.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel Cover #TOP 1
Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Abu Garcia Max X Baitcast Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Abu Garcia Max X Baitcast Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Abu Garcia Silver Max Low Profile Cover #TOP 3
Abu Garcia Silver Max Low Profile
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Low Profile Fishing Reels

Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel

MAX4PRO-L
Multi
Left-Handed (Box)
Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel Cover
Abu Garcia Max Pro Low Profile Baitcast Reel, Size LP (1539730), 7 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Left-Handed (Box)

The Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel is a lightweight and durable fishing reel designed for smooth and efficient casting. Made with a graphite frame and sideplates, and a machined double anodized aluminum spool, this reel is strong yet lightweight at only 7.4 oz. With a gear ratio of 7.1:1 and the Duragear brass gear, you can expect a fast recovery rate and extended reel life. The MagTrax brake system provides consistent brake pressure throughout your cast, while the 8 total bearings ensure smooth operation. The synthetic star drag with a max of 15lb offers smooth drag performance. The compact bent handle, recessed reel foot, and large co-molded soft touch knobs are ergonomically designed for comfort. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, the Abu Garcia Max Pro Baitcast Reel is a reliable and convenient choice for your fishing needs.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Fast recovery rate
Consistent brake pressure

Abu Garcia Max X Baitcast Fishing Reel

MAX4X
Multi
Right-Handed - Box
Abu Garcia Max X Baitcast Fishing Reel Cover
Abu Garcia Max X Low Profile Baitcast Reel, Size LP (1539733), 4 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg

The Abu Garcia Max X Reel is a right-handed low profile baitcast fishing reel that offers smooth and reliable performance. Equipped with 4 stainless steel ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, this reel delivers a smooth operation. The machined aluminum spool allows for strength without adding extra weight, while the Power Disk drag system provides a consistent drag pressure throughout the entire drag range. The Duragear brass gear offers extended gear life and ensures that the reel can handle tough fish. The MagTrax brake system helps to provide precise and consistent brake pressure, ensuring that your casts are accurate and controlled. The compact bent handle and star, recessed reel foot, one-piece graphite frame, graphite sideplates, and large PVC knobs make this reel comfortable to use and easy to handle, even during long fishing trips.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Consistent drag pressure
Precise brake pressure
#TOP 3

Abu Garcia Silver Max Low Profile

MAX4STX
Multi
Right-Handed (Box)
Abu Garcia Silver Max Low Profile Cover
Abu Garcia Max STX Low Profile Baitcast Reel, Size LP (1539731), 5 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg

Abu Garcia Silver Max is a fishing reel with 5 stainless steel ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, a machined aluminum spool, a Power Disk drag system, and a MagTrax brake system. The stainless steel ball bearings and roller bearing provide smooth operation and durability, while the machined aluminum spool offers strength without adding weight. The Power Disk drag system gives a smooth and consistent drag pressure, which is essential to control the fish, and the MagTrax brake system ensures an accurate and efficient cast. With these features, you can enjoy a hassle-free fishing experience, catching more fish with less effort.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Durable
Accurate cast
#TOP 4

Gaderth 8KG Baitcasting Reel

Gaderth
LBXO1cpj4B1xeNGqQwQzBQ4iu6m
right hand
One Size
Gaderth 8KG Baitcasting Reel Cover
Baitcasting Reels, 8KG Max Drag Baitcaster Reels, 7.2:1 Gear Ratio Fishing Baitcasting Reel, 12+1 BB Bait Caster Reel, Low-Profile Fishing Reel with Compact Design Right Hand

The Gaderth Baitcasting Reel is designed for anglers who want efficiency and performance. With a 7.2:1 gear ratio, you can quickly retrieve your line, making it easier to throw bait at high speeds. The reel features 12+1 ball bearings that ensure a smooth operation, enhancing your fishing experience. Its durable construction, made from high-strength brass gear, offers excellent resistance to wear and tear while remaining lightweight. This combination of strength and lightness helps you handle fish more effectively, increasing your chances of landing a big catch.

What We Like
Fast line retrieval
Smooth operation
Durable materials
Lightweight design
#TOP 5

OKUMA Convector Lowprofile Fishing Reel

CV-354DLX
Multi
One Size
OKUMA Convector Lowprofile Fishing Reel Cover
OKUMA Reels Convector Lowprofile 3Bb+1Rb 5.4:1, Multi, One Size

The OKUMA Convector Lowprofile Fishing Reel features precision machine cut brass main and pinion gears, mechanical line counter function that measures in feet, CVT anti-fogging line counter, automatic trip, spool engagement mechanism, and a machined aluminum, anodized spool. These features make it a great tool for measuring and managing your fishing line with ease, while ensuring its longevity and durability.

What We Like
Precision machine cut brass main and pinion gears
Mechanical line counter function measures in feet
CVT anti-fogging line counter
#TOP 6

KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels

Royale Legend
KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels Cover
KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels, New Low Profile Design Baitcaster Fishing Reel, Magnet Braking System, 17.6 Lbs Carbon Fiber Drag, 5+1 Shielded Stainless Steel Bearings

The KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels are designed to provide great performance, comfort, and looks at an affordable price. It features a low profile design for superior casting control, synthetic soft grip handles for a comfortable grip, and a quadruple disc carbon drag that delivers 17.6 lbs of drag. The reel is built for performance and endurance with 5+1 shielded stainless steel bearings and a sweet spot 7.2:1 gear ratio. The matte red finish on the frame and trim with sleek gloss black side covers, and a black and red anodized aluminum spool give it a stunning look.

What We Like
Low profile design for superior casting control
Synthetic soft grip handles for a comfortable grip
Quadruple disc carbon drag that delivers 17.6 lbs of drag
5+1 shielded stainless steel bearings for performance and endurance
Stunning matte red finish on the frame and trim with sleek gloss black side covers, and a black and red anodized aluminum spool
#TOP 7

Cadence Essence Low Profile Fishing Reel

1998
black and grey
Cadence Essence Low Profile Fishing Reel Cover
Cadence Essence Low Profile Fishing Reel,Lightweight Baitcasting Reel with 8 Corrosion Resistant Bearings, 20 lbs Carbon Fiber Drag with High Speed 7.3:1 Gear Ratio Baitcaster Reels

The Cadence Essence Reel is a lightweight and powerful baitcasting reel designed for avid fishermen. Its carbon frame and GV material side plate make it lightweight and easy to cast far and long. The reel features a smooth and powerful drag system with 20 lbs max drag, allowing you to reel in the biggest catches effortlessly. With its ergonomic design and comfortable palm compact design, the Essence Reel ensures maximum comfort while fishing. It also offers a fast retrieve with its 6.6 or 7.3 gear ratio, enabling efficient fishing and keeping constant pressure on the fish. The Cadence Essence Reel is a high-performance and durable fishing reel that offers great value for its price range.

What We Like
Lightweight
Ultra Smooth & Powerful
Comfortable Palm Compact Design
#TOP 8

Piscifun Alijoz 300 Baitcaster Fishing Reel

Piscifun-RL171-R
Gray & Golden
8.1:1 Gear Ratio
Piscifun Alijoz 300 Baitcaster Fishing Reel Cover
Piscifun Alijoz Baitcasting Reels Low Profile Baitcaster Aluminum Frame Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 300, 33lb Drag 8.1:1 Gear Ratio Freshwater Saltwater Double Handle Casting Reels (Right Handed)

The Piscifun Alijoz Baitcaster Reel is a powerful and durable fishing reel designed for handling big freshwater fish and inshore saltwater species. With a maximum drag of 33lbs and a robust Hamai cut hardened brass gearing, this reel is built to tackle large fish and swimbaits. Its premium aluminum frame and handle ensure long-lasting performance, while the 8 double shielded stainless steel bearings and instant anti-reverse provide smooth and reliable operation. The reel features an ergonomic design with an easy-to-access thumb bar engage button and a line wrap spool that eliminates the need for mono as backing. The 8 effective magnetic braking system prevents overruns and backlash, and the customizable gear ratios and handle options allow you to personalize your fishing experience. Whether you're targeting musky or saltwater species, the Piscifun Alijoz Baitcaster Reel offers excellent value and performance to help you reel in your dream catch.

What We Like
Powerful
Durable
Smooth operation
#TOP 9

Okuma Coldwater 350 Low Profile Linecounter Reel

CW-354D, Right Hand
Multi-coloured
One Size
Okuma Coldwater 350 Low Profile Linecounter Reel Cover
Okuma Coldwater 350 Low Profile Linecounter Reel CW354D, Right Hand

The Okuma Coldwater 350 Low Profile Linecounter Reel is a durable and lightweight fishing reel that is perfect for trolling. The reel features a corrosion-resistant frame and sideplates, which help to ensure that it lasts for a long time. It also has a multi-disc, carbonite drag system that provides smooth and reliable drag performance. The aluminum handle arm with ergo grip handle knobs makes it comfortable to use for long periods of time, and the oversized machine cut brass XL drive and pinion gears provide plenty of power. The machined aluminum, two-tone anodized spool is also a great feature, as it helps to reduce line twist and provides consistent performance.

What We Like
Durable and lightweight
Smooth and reliable drag performance
Comfortable to use for long periods of time
Provides plenty of power
Reduces line twist and provides consistent performance
#TOP 10

Abu Garcia Zata Fishing Reel

ZATA2LP-L
Metal
Left-Handed
Abu Garcia Zata Fishing Reel Cover
Abu Garcia Zata Baitcast Low Profile Fishing Reel, Compact, Lightweight Fishing Reel, Graphite Frame and Sideplates, Left Handle Position, Bent Handle Design

The Abu Garcia Zata Reel is designed for performance and versatility, making it an excellent choice for various fishing styles. It features a fast recovery rate, retrieving 27 inches of line with each crank, which helps you catch more fish efficiently. With a robust 10 + 1 stainless steel bearing system, you can enjoy smooth operation, enhancing your overall fishing experience. Additionally, the Infini brake system offers nearly limitless adjustability, allowing you to adapt to different fishing conditions easily. The Carbon Matrix drag system ensures consistent pressure, giving you confidence when battling larger catches.

What We Like
Sleek, compact design
Fast line recovery
Smooth operation
Adjustable braking system
Consistent drag pressure
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is low profile fishing reel?

Low-profile reels have a palm side and a handle side. Opposite of spinning reels, right-handed baitcasters have the handle on the right side, and left-handed baitcasters have the handle on the left side. The palm side of the reel is designed to fit the contour of the hand.

2. What are slower reels good for?

In cold water when bass are especially wary, a slow gear ratio is perfect for these slower, non-threatening presentations. A slow reel also aids in keeping these baits in the strike zone longer, which can prove invaluable when fishing moving baits in deep water.

3. What are 6.2 1 reels good for?

6.2:1 to 6.5:1 – We personally use this speed range anytime we are tossing spinnerbaits, throwing jerkbaits, shallow running and lipless crankbaits, early season swim jigs, vibrating jigs and swimbaits / umbrella rigs.

4. Why is a Baitcaster better?

The reason why baitcasters tend to be preferred by many bass anglers is because of the greater casting accuracy they provide. Bass are often found close to heavy cover, and the lure must be placed close to that cover with pinpoint accuracy in order to catch them.

Editor's Notes

During our low profile fishing reel research, we found 24 low profile fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 49,272 customer reviews through our big data system to write the low profile fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose low profile fishing reels with an average price of $67.07.

The low profile fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of low profile fishing reels, including Abu Garcia, Gaderth, OKUMA, KastKing, Cadence. 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.