Best Anti-Reverse Trolling Fishing Reels of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Anti-reverse trolling fishing reels are an essential tool for any angler looking to catch a big fish. These reels are designed with a mechanism that prevents the handle from turning backward, ensuring a secure and efficient retrieval of the line. This feature is particularly useful when trolling, as it allows the angler to maintain constant tension on the line, increasing the chances of hooking a fish. Anti-reverse trolling fishing reels come in various sizes and styles, catering to different levels of expertise and fishing environments. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, these reels are a must-have for any serious angler.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sougayilang Rover Round Baitcasting Reel Cover #TOP 1
Sougayilang Rover Round Baitcasting Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Okuma Convector CV-30L Trolling Reel Cover #TOP 2
Okuma Convector CV-30L Trolling Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 100 Reel, Left-Hand Retrieve Cover #TOP 3
Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 100 Reel, Left-Hand Retrieve
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Anti-Reverse Trolling Fishing Reels

Sougayilang Rover Round Baitcasting Reel

10024
600-Right Hand
XLT-60
Sougayilang Rover Round Baitcasting Reel Cover
Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Reel,Conventional Reel-Reinforced Metal Body Anti-Reverse Fishing Reels for Catfish, Salmon/Steelhead, Striper Bass,Tuna and Inshore Saltwater Fishing

The Sougayilang Rover Round Baitcasting Reel is specially designed for catfish fishing and is equipped with high-performance anti-rust and anti-corrosion treatments. The reel features 6 stainless ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, providing smooth and consistent drag for long-range performance. With extended bent cranking handles and a power knob, it offers added torque for hard-pulling fish. The reel also has a centrifugal brake for precise casting. The large-sized gears and configurations improve gear rotation resistance and reduce rotation resistance, ensuring efficient force transmission. The lightweight aluminum alloy rotating disc increases throwing distance. With its durability and performance, the Sougayilang Baitcasting Reel is the perfect gift for fishing enthusiasts.

What We Like
Anti-rust and anti-corrosion
Smooth and consistent drag
Added torque for hard-pulling fish
#TOP 2

Okuma Convector CV-30L Trolling Reel

CV-30L
Black
Okuma Convector CV-30L Trolling Reel Cover
Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-30L Levelwind Trolling Reel (420 Yards- 20LB), Black

The OKUMA Trolling Reel is a versatile fishing reel designed for trolling. With its lightweight and corrosion-resistant frame and sideplates, this reel ensures durability and easy handling. The machined aluminum spool with smoke anodized finish adds strength and style to your fishing gear. Equipped with stainless steel reinforcing sideplate rings, this reel offers added protection and stability during your fishing adventures. The multi-disc Carbonite drag system provides smooth and reliable drag performance, giving you control when reeling in your catch.

What We Like
Lightweight & Corrosion Resistant
Smooth Carbonite Drag System
Durable Stainless Steel Gearing
#TOP 3

Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 100 Reel, Left-Hand Retrieve

EN101HPT.BX2
Silver/Black
Size 100 Reel
Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 100 Reel, Left-Hand Retrieve Cover
Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel, Size 100 Reel, Left-Hand Retrieve, Continuous Anti-Reverse Clutch, Large EVA Handle Knobs, 7.0:1 Gear Ratio, 10 + 1 Bearings, Silver/Black

The Quantum Energy S3 Baitcast Fishing Reel is built with ultra-durable performance features including a one-piece rigid aluminum frame, zero-friction spool, large EVA handle knobs, 10+1 bearings, and a ceramic carbon drag system. The reel is coated with saltguard protection and features a continuous anti-reverse clutch, micro-adjust ACS 3.0 cast control, and a bayonet side cover for hassle-free maintenance. It has a 7.0:1 gear ratio and is suitable for medium to heavy species such as bass, walleye, catfish, striper, and more.

What We Like
Ultra-durable performance features
Smooth and controlled casts
Can hold up to 170-yards of 30-pound braided line
5-year protection against defects

Sougayilang Trolling Reel-Thunder LS II 4000R

unknown
Sougayilang Trolling Reel-Thunder LS II 4000R Cover
Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel Conventional Level Wind Fishing Reel-Thunder LS II 4000R

The Sougayilang Trolling Reel-Thunder LS II 4000R is a durable and easy-to-use fishing reel designed for trolling fisherman. The reel outputs 40 lbs. of drag and features heavy duty brass gears and a full Carbon drag system. The Aluminum ratcheting drag star enables precise drag setting, making it easier for anglers to operate. The line counter helps anglers to set up faster and more accurately, and the reel is built exceptionally solid. Despite not being the best reel on the market, it is worth the investment. Additionally, it comes with a three-year limited Worry-Free Service.

What We Like
Durable and powerful
Easy to use and comfortable to hold
Line counter helps set up faster and more accurately

Okuma Solterra SLX-30IIb

SLX-30IIb
Black
Okuma Solterra SLX-30IIb Cover
Okuma Solterra SLX Two Speed Closed Frame Lever Drag Reel Saltwater Trolling Reel, SLX-30IIb, 540yds-40lb, Black

Okuma Trolling Reel is equipped with stainless steel gears and shafts for durability. The corrosion-resistant frame ensures longevity in saltwater conditions. Its Carbonite drag system with Cal's universal drag grease provides smooth drag performance. The 2 thrust bearings reduce handle turning force by over 50%, making it easier for you to reel in your catch. Additionally, the double dog, silent anti-reverse feature enhances precision during fishing.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Corrosion-resistant frame
Smooth drag performance
#TOP 6

Okuma Convector Left-Handed Reel

CV-30DLX (Left Handed)
Black
Okuma Convector Left-Handed Reel Cover
Okuma Convector Star Drag Left-handed Line Counter Reel (25/310), Black, 30

The Okuma Convector Reel is designed to enhance your fishing experience with its precision engineering and user-friendly features. The mechanical line counter function allows you to easily track your line in feet, helping you optimize your fishing strategy. With Clear View Technology, the anti-fogging line counter ensures visibility in various weather conditions, so you won't miss a catch. The automatic trip and spool engagement mechanism provide seamless operation, making it easier for you to focus on fishing rather than fiddling with gear. These features combined make the Okuma Convector Reel an excellent choice for any angler.

What We Like
Precision line tracking
Clear visibility in all conditions
Seamless operation
Durable construction
#TOP 7

Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel

SG-ICAC-L
Left Hand
Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel Cover
Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel,Conventional Level Wind Trolling Reel, Graphite Body, Durable Stainless-Steel and Brass Gears, Large Line Capacity, Powerful Carbon Disc Drag-RZC20L

The Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel is a powerful machine with a top-class carbon fiber washer that delivers up to 35Lbs of drag power. It features a precise Japanese Cut Gearing System, a line clicker function, a durable light weight graphite frame and side plates, 6 stainless-steel ball bearings, a stainless steel handle with a comfortable round knob, and a powerful carbon disc drag. It also has a large line capacity and is suitable for Salmon, Steelhead, Lake Trout, Striped Bass, or other uses such as a catfish reel.

What We Like
High drag power of up to 35Lbs
Durable light weight graphite frame and side plates
6 stainless-steel ball bearings
Large line capacity
Powerful carbon disc drag
#TOP 8

Sougayilang TRA 30L Line Counter Fishing Reel

TRA30L
Left Handed
Sougayilang TRA 30L Line Counter Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Line Counter Fishing Reel Conventional Level Wind Trolling Reels-TRA 30L

The Sougayilang Line Counter Reel, model TRA 30L, is a durable and powerful fishing reel perfect for trolling. With a strong drag system that can handle up to 20 lbs., this reel allows for precise drag settings with its Aluminum ratcheting drag star. Its comfortable fit in your hand, smooth drag, and anti-reverse roller bearings make it easy to operate for long fishing trips. The quick line set-up feature helps you get your line back in the strike zone fast, while the solid build ensures durability. Backed by a three-year Worry-Free Service, this reel offers reliability and performance for your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Durable construction
Precise drag settings
Comfortable to use
#TOP 9

Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel

Shakespeare
CONT260B
Black
Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel Cover
Shakespeare Contender Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 60, Instant Anti-Reverse, Oil Felt Front Drag System, Durable Aluminum Spool

The Shakespeare® Contender® Spinning Reel is a lightweight and durable fishing reel that features 3 ball bearings, instant anti-reverse bearing, ported spool, oversized magna bail wire (on select sizes), and left/right convertible handle. The on/off anti-reverse provides convenience and ease of use while fishing.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Multiple ball bearings for smooth operation
Select sizes feature oversized magna bail wire for increased durability
#TOP 10

Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel

OP60D
Multi
60 size/Clampack
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
Quantum Optix Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 60 Reel, Changeable Right- or Left-Hand Retrieve, Aluminum Spool, Stainless Steel Bail Wire, Quickset Anti-Reverse, 4.9:1 Gear Ratio, Silver, Clam Packaging

The Quantum Optix spinning reel is perfect for catching heavy species such as catfish and striper. The reel features a strong and lightweight composite body, an aluminum spool, and a stainless steel bail wire. It has a QuickSet anti-reverse technology to create a solid hookset, a changeable right-or left-hand retrieve, and a TRU Balance rotor for balanced and smooth retrieves. With a 4.9:1 gear ratio and a line retrieval of 33 IPT, it provides speed and precision. The reel is covered by a 5-year protection against defects in workmanship and/or materials.

What We Like
Durable and lightweight materials
Smooth, balanced, and reliable performance
QuickSet anti-reverse technology for solid hookset
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of anti reverse on a fishing reel?

The final component to understand on your spinning reel is the anti-reverse switch. This feature is typically located at the bottom of the reel and can be a helpful tool when fighting fish. This switch allows you to backreel, or reel in reverse, rather than relying on your drag system for line tension.

2. What is anti reverse on a conventional reel?

The anti-reverse lock is a ratchet-and-dog combination that allows line to be taken in, but does not let line out and is helpful when trolling. After the bait or lure is let out and drops back to trolling distance, the lock is snapped on before putting the rod in the holder.

Editor's Notes

During our anti-reverse trolling fishing reel research, we found 24 anti-reverse trolling fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,337 customer reviews through our big data system to write the anti-reverse trolling fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose anti-reverse trolling fishing reels with an average price of $90.02.

The anti-reverse trolling fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of anti-reverse trolling fishing reels, including Sougayilang, OKUMA, Zebco, Shakespeare, Quantum. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 161 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.