Best Surf Fishing Reels of 2026
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Surf fishing reels are an essential piece of equipment for those who enjoy fishing from the shore. These reels are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing and provide the angler with the power and control needed to catch larger species of fish. They are typically larger and heavier than other types of reels, with a higher line capacity and a stronger drag system. Some popular brands include Penn, Shimano, and Daiwa, all of which offer a variety of models to suit different fishing styles and preferences. Whether targeting striped bass, redfish, or other species, a quality surf fishing reel is a must-have for any serious angler.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Surf Fishing Reels
KastKing Centron Spinning Reel
Transform into a pro angler with KastKing Centron Spinning Reel. Its lightweight and narrow graphite frame design, combined with a computer balancing system, deliver high-performance in a compact size. With incredible stopping power up to 17.5LBs, the Superior Drag System offers smooth and reliable performance. The reel has nine quality ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing for ultra-smooth performance. The high strength two-color anodized aluminum spool has a power launch lip for longer casts and holds more line than competitor's models. The attractive, brilliant finish adds durability to the reel, making it a great gift for anyone who loves fishing.
Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Fishing Reel
The Zebco Micro Spincast Reel is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. It features a lightweight graphite frame, stainless steel covers, a MicroFine dial-adjustable drag, and boasts a patented no-tangle design. The built-in bite alert uses an audio indicator to alert anglers of activity below the water. Zebco's Quickset anti-reverse clutch stops your handle from moving backwards and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prized catch. It features a changeable right or left-hand retrieve and comes pre-spooled with 4-pound of Zebco Cajun line so you're ready to fish sooner. With a mono line capacity of 90/4 yds/lbs, this reel offers smooth performance and unrivaled durability. Ideal for targeting light species from panfish to trout and more.
Piscifun Flame Spinning Reel
The Piscifun Flame Reel is an excellent choice for anglers seeking a lightweight option, weighing just 6.1 ounces, making it easy to transport on your fishing trips. With a strong drag power of 19.8 pounds, it gives you the strength needed to catch larger fish. The reel's sleek design features a matte black body with a striking red aluminum spool, adding a modern touch to your fishing gear. Additionally, its smooth operation comes from 9 ball bearings and precision gears, ensuring effortless casting and reeling that enhances your fishing experience.
PENN Pursuit IV Fishing Reel
The PENN Pursuit IV Reel is designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, offering a perfect blend of power and speed. Its lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite body ensures durability while making it easy to handle. You will appreciate the smooth gear recovery rate of 36 inches per crank, allowing for quick line retrieval. With 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings, this reel provides fast hook-ups, enhancing your fishing experience. The HT-100 front drag system, built with carbon fiber washers, delivers a maximum drag of 20 pounds, making it easier to tire out fish without straining yourself.
KastKing Centron Lite Baitcasting Reel
The KastKing Centron Lite Baitcasting Reel is an ultra-light and ultra-powerful reel designed for longer casts. It features 5 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings, a 10-magnet braking system, and a maximum drag of 15.4 LB. The CNC Anodized Aluminum Spool has Standard Braided Line Capacity LB/Yds 12LB/180Yds, 15LB/145Yds, 20LB/120Yds, Standard Mono Line Capacity LB/Yds 8LB/90Yds, 10LB/80Yds, 12LB/55Yds. This reel is perfect for anglers looking for longer casting distance and a smooth, reliable performance.
KastKing Brutus Spincast Fishing Reel
The KastKing Brutus Spincast Fishing Reel is a high-performance reel with a stainless-steel dual pickup system, 4.0:1 gear ratio, and 5 stainless-steel double shielded ball bearings. It features an aluminum reversible double paddle handle with durable rubber grips and comes pre-spooled with 160 yards of 10 lb test KastKing Premium Monofilament fishing line. It's perfect for freshwater fishing with #10 test or less monofilament line.
Zebco 202 Spincast Fishing Reel
The Zebco 202 Spincast Fishing Reel is a great choice for both beginner and experienced anglers. It features a patented no-tangle design, simple push-button mechanics, and a 2.8:1 gear ratio for a smooth retrieve. The reel is constructed with all-metal gears and a durable, tough-yet-sleek design. It is pre-spooled with 10-pound Zebco fishing line and features a right-hand retrieve. The long-lasting stainless steel pick-up pin is corrosion resistant, making it perfect for many fishing adventures.
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a powerful and durable reel that simplifies operation with its magnetic braking system. It has a fast retrieve and two gear ratios to choose from, 5.3:1 and 7.1:1, making it suitable for a variety of techniques. It also features a unique side-plate oil port for easy maintenance.
Piscifun Viper X Spinning Reel
The Piscifun Viper X Reel is a high-performance spinning fishing reel suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Equipped with double shielded 10+1 stainless steel bearings, this reel provides silky smooth performance that's both reliable and consistent. The reinforced stainless steel main shaft and Zinc alloy drive gear allow for up to 33lbs of max drag, making it perfect for reeling in bigger fish. The Viper X Reel is also lighter and stronger than other reels of similar quality, thanks to its high-quality graphite material and new mould technology. With a lightning-fast gear ratio and versatile retrieval options, this reel suits any fishing style or situation. Additionally, the reel's waterproof design and premium quality construction make it a great value for any angler.
KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel
The KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel is a powerful and durable reel that is perfect for freshwater and saltwater fishing. It features a rigid aluminum skeletal frame, pro-level quality gears, a smooth carbon fiber drag system with over 30 lbs of run-stopping power, and 7+1 MaxiDur double-shielded stainless-steel ball bearings. Customers are impressed with the build quality and smooth performance of the reel, making it a great budget option for anglers of all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is 5000 or 6000 reel for surf fishing?
A size 5000-6000 reel is suitable for surf fishing. It can hold approximately 300 yards of most fishing lines used for shore fishing. This reel size is sufficient to handle most fish species found nearshore, including larger ones that may occasionally come closer.
2. Are circle hooks or J hooks better for surf fishing?
Circle hooks are generally more effective for surf fishing compared to J hooks. The shape of a circle hook is designed to set in the corner of the fish's mouth, providing better hooking and control. This makes it easier to bring the fish to shore.
3. Is a 2500 reel good for surf fishing?
A size 2500 reel can be used for surf fishing, depending on the target fish. For smaller fish species like corbina, croaker, and surfperch (1 to 5 pounds), a 2500 reel with 8-pound mono line is commonly used. However, larger fish may require a larger reel size and stronger line.
4. Is 150 yards enough fishing line for surf fishing?
For most surf fishing situations, 150 yards of fishing line is sufficient. It's rare to need more than 100 yards, but having 150 yards of line will provide good coverage. If needed, you can add a monofilament backing to fill up the spool or handle larger fish that may be cruising the shallows.
5. Can you catch a shark with a 6000 reel?
Yes, you can catch sharks with a 6000 reel. A surf rod and reel combo in the 6000-8000 size range is recommended for fishing for 3 to 5-foot sharks. The reel should have a line capacity of at least 500 yards of 25-pound braided fishing line.
6. What weight line for surf fishing sharks?
For surf fishing sharks, you'll need a heavy monofilament setup of around 50 to 60 feet with a weight of 500 to 800 pounds. After the monofilament, a 3 to 6-foot steel leader is necessary to increase the chances of keeping the shark attached.
7. What size reel for surf lure fishing?
For surf lure fishing, a reel size of up to 4500-5000 is ideal. Reels in the 2000-4000 size range are also suitable for this type of fishing.
8. What size reel is best for beach casting?
The ideal reel size for beach casting depends on line capacity. For clean beach angling with 12lb to 15lb line, a reel that holds around 200-300 yards of 15lb line or 400-500 yards of 12lb line is recommended.
During our surf fishing reel research, we found 24 surf fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 195,379 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surf fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose surf fishing reels with an average price of $30.03.
The surf fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surf fishing reels, including KastKing, Zebco, Piscifun, PENN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 877 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
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.