Best Ice Fishing Reels of 2025
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Ice fishing reels are a crucial component for any angler venturing out onto frozen lakes or rivers. These specialized reels are designed to withstand extreme cold temperatures and provide a smooth and reliable drag system. They come in various sizes and styles to fit the needs of different fishing techniques and species. Some ice fishing reels are designed with a spool that can be easily removed for quick line changes, while others have a built-in line guide to prevent tangling. Overall, investing in a high-quality ice fishing reel can enhance the angling experience and increase the chances of a successful catch.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 10 Ice Fishing Reels
Piscifun ICX II Ice Fishing Reel
The Piscifun ICX II Reel is specifically designed for ice fishing, featuring a robust graphite body that can withstand harsh winter conditions. Its foldable handle makes it easy to transport, ensuring you can take it wherever your fishing adventures lead. With 5+1 high-quality sealed bearings, you can enjoy a smooth retrieve, even when battling larger fish beneath the ice. The water-resistant aluminum spool keeps moisture out and promotes efficient line management, allowing you to focus on catching fish without worrying about equipment issues.
Eagle Claw In Line Ice Reel
The Eagle Claw In Line Ice Reel is a perfect fit for ice fishing. It comes with a carbon pattern finish and a smooth Teflon drag. The spool tension adjustment with a free spool release button and 2:6:1 gear ratio make it easier for you to handle. Additionally, it has 4+1 ball bearings, reduced line twist, and a line retrieve in/crank of 1575 inch. The reel has a line capacity of 2/270, 4/190, and 6/120 (lbs test/yds). All EAGLE CLAW LAZER SHARP TROKAR HOOKS are Made in America.
Eagle Claw Inline Ice Fishing Reel
The Eagle Claw Inline Ice Fishing Reel comes in a sleek Jet Black Finish and offers a Smooth Star Teflon Drag, allowing for easy use and control. It also features a Spool Tension adjustment free spool release button, 4+1 Ball Bearings, and a 2.6:1 Gear Ratio. The reel has a Line Capacity of 2-6 lbs test/yds, making it perfect for ice fishing.
13 FISHING - Black Betty - Inline Ice Fishing Reel - BB2015
The 13 FISHING Black Betty Reel is a durable and high-performance inline ice fishing reel. Constructed with strong aluminum, it can withstand tough fishing conditions. The reel features an Evolve Smooth Cork Drag System, which provides smooth and reliable drag control, allowing you to easily handle and control the line tension. The Evolve Micro-Click Drag Knob allows for precise drag adjustments, ensuring optimal performance. With the ability to switch between left and right hand retrieve, this reel offers convenience for both left-handed and right-handed anglers. Additionally, the reel comes with a fender for added protection. The 13 FISHING Black Betty Reel is a versatile and reliable choice for ice fishing enthusiasts.
HT Enterprise RR-10 Rattle Reel
This black rattle reel with drag is a must-have for ice fishermen. It is carefully designed for ice fishing needs, and can withstand the toughest outdoor climates. With ease of use in mind, this reel is perfect for all experience levels.
13 FISHING Freefall XL Inline Ice Fishing Reel
The 13 FISHING Freefall XL Inline Ice Fishing Reel is a Left Hand Retrieve reel with a FREEFALL TRIGGER SYSTEM that provides an instant hookup, and a CORE BALANCED MAGNETIC DROP SPEED SYSTEM for easy control of the descent speed. With 4 STAINLESS STEEL BALL BEARINGS and a 9.9Lb/4.5KG CARBON DRAG SYSTEM, the reel has a smooth drag and a long lifespan. The FREE SPOOL FEATURE and the 3:1 GEAR RATIO help anglers to fish with ease and efficiency.
HT Accucast 6BB Spin Reel
The HT Accucast Reel is specifically designed for ice fishing enthusiasts. With its six ball bearings, this reel offers smooth operation, making it easier for you to cast and retrieve your line. Its construction is tailored for cold weather conditions, ensuring durability and reliability when you need it most. The user-friendly design allows for quick adjustments, providing you with the flexibility to adapt to changing fishing conditions. Overall, this reel enhances your ice fishing experience by combining performance with convenience.
Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel
The Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel features a spool guarded reel to allow palm grip, lightweight composite construction that won't feel cold in frigid temperatures, 3.7:1 reel ratio with super smooth drag & instant anti-reverse, and 22" line retrieval per revolution. The long stem positions reel away from the rod accommodating heavy gloves, while the short stem is perfect for those who prefer the compact size to palm the reel. With 5 plus 1 ball bearing reel and ultra-fine free spooling, you can easily drop the smallest jigs.
Eskimo E-Hub Rattle Reel 41944
The Eskimo E-Hub Reel is designed to enhance your ice fishing experience. With its permanently mountable base, you can securely attach it to any Eskimo pop-up hub shelter, ensuring stability. The locking connection feature allows you to snap the E-Hub into place, so you can fish at any angle without worrying about it moving. Its flexible arm is adjustable and made from reinforced nylon, providing strength in all directions. You can also easily control the drag resistance of your spool with a simple knob, giving you precise control over your fishing line.
Eagle Claw In Line Ice Reel
The Eagle Claw Ice Reel is designed for ice fishing enthusiasts. Its jet black finish and aluminum spool provide durability and a sleek appearance. You’ll appreciate the smooth star Teflon drag, which allows for easy and precise adjustments to ensure a successful catch. The reel features 4 + 1 ball bearings, promoting effortless retrieval and reducing friction as you reel in your line. With a gear ratio of 2:6:1, this reel offers a balanced performance that makes fishing more enjoyable. Plus, the line capacity accommodates various line strengths, catering to your specific fishing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why use an inline reel for ice fishing?
An inline reel is beneficial for ice fishing because it allows the line to feed straight out without uncoiling, reducing line memory. This design, along with the larger diameter spool, helps increase bite detection by keeping the line with fewer loops and as straight as possible.
2. Is spinning or inline better for ice fishing?
While spinning reels are generally better for most fishing scenarios, inline reels excel in delivering better presentations with small baits. However, they may not offer the same versatility and functionality as spinning reels for various fishing techniques and depths.
3. Can I use a regular spinning reel for ice fishing?
Yes, regular spinning reels commonly used in the summer for panfish, walleye, and other species work well for ice fishing. Smaller spinning reels from size 1000 to 2500 are popular choices among ice anglers.
4. Is monofilament or braided line better for ice fishing?
Both monofilament and fluorocarbon lines are less susceptible to forming ice compared to braided line. This makes them better options for anglers who fish in the elements and prefer to be outside the shelter. Each line type also has different visibility characteristics underwater.
5. What is the best line for inline ice reels?
Monofilament is generally considered the best overall line for inline ice reels. It offers excellent strength per diameter, handles well in extreme cold temperatures, forms less ice compared to other lines, and has low visibility.
6. Is ice fishing better in deep or shallow water?
Ice fishing can be successful in both deep and shallow water, but many anglers find that the best action occurs in water ranging from 3 to 20 feet deep. It's recommended to set up traps that cover a variety of depths to increase the chances of catching fish.
7. What is the best gear ratio for ice fishing reels?
The gear ratio on an ice fishing reel is typically around 5.2:1, representing the speed at which the line is reeled in. This gear ratio is suitable for ice fishing and provides a balanced retrieval rate for most ice fishing situations.
8. Why are ice fishing reels so small?
Ice fishing reels are designed to be small and compact specifically for ice fishing. The smaller size allows anglers to be closer to the fishing hole, and the sensitivity of the rod is crucial for feeling the fish's movements. These factors make small ice fishing reels more practical and effective for ice fishing.
During our ice fishing reel research, we found 24 ice fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,996 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ice fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose ice fishing reels with an average price of $20.86.
The ice fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ice fishing reels, including Piscifun, Eagle Claw, 13 Fishing, HT Enterprise, HT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,050 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.