Best Big Game Trolling Fishing Reels of 2025

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

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Big game trolling fishing reels are designed for serious anglers who want to catch large fish species such as marlin, tuna, and sailfish. These reels are typically larger and heavier than traditional fishing reels, with a powerful drag system that can withstand the strength of big game fish. They also feature a high line capacity, allowing anglers to spool up with heavier line to handle the weight of larger fish. Big game trolling fishing reels are available in both conventional and spinning models, and are often used in conjunction with trolling rods to target pelagic species.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
One Bass TAL40R Cover #TOP 3
One Bass TAL40R
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Big Game Trolling Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel

1292936
Multicolor
SQL16VS
PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel Cover
PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel, Graphite, Multicolor, 725/20, IGFA16, Big Game Saltwater Fishing

The PENN 16VS Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel is a lightweight yet powerful fishing reel that is ideal for big game saltwater fishing. It features a graphite frame and sideplates, a Quick Shift 2-speed system, a Dura-Drag system, and a double dog ratchet system. It is capable of holding braided line up to 1490/30 1040/50 865/65 and mono line up to 1090/15 725/20 540/30.

What We Like
Lightweight yet powerful
Quick Shift 2-speed system
Dura-Drag system
Double dog ratchet system
Capable of holding braided and mono line

Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel

10047
Gold-15
Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Conventional Reel Trolling Fishing Reel Powerful Drag Fishing Reel for Saltwater Big Game (TS50-gold)

The Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel is specifically designed for slow jigging fishing or trolling fishing, making it the perfect addition for chasing smaller, lighter species. Its ultra-light frame and side plates are made from solid blocks of Aircraft-Grade aluminum alloy, ensuring long-term use and excellent durability. With a 6.0:1 gear ratio, this reel delivers smooth and reliable performance for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The stainless steel main and pinion gears increase gear capacity and smoothness, while the forged and machined aluminum spool with anti-rust fixing pin makes it easy to tie the line securely. Additionally, the reel features a comfortable-in-the-hand design and a line out alarm clicker for easy use. The Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Reel offers big reel features in the palm of your hand, providing convenience and reliability for your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Specifically designed for slow jigging and trolling fishing
Ultra-light frame and side plates made from Aircraft-Grade aluminum alloy
6.0:1 gear ratio for smooth and reliable performance

One Bass TAL40R

4000
One Bass TAL40R Cover
One Bass Fishing Reels Level Wind Trolling Reel Conventional Jigging Reel for Saltwater Big Game Fishing (Right Handed-TAL40R)

One Bass Trolling Reel is a powerful saltwater fishing reel with a carbon fiber drag system providing up to 45 LB of smooth drag. It features a multi-disc carbonite drag system for consistent stopping power, 6 stainless steel bearings for a smooth retrieve, and a quick disassemble handle design for easy handling. The ergonomic handle knob and aircraft aluminum frame make it durable for any fishing conditions. Plus, it comes with a three-year service warranty for any issues.

What We Like
Powerful Carbon Fiber Drag
Multi-disc Drag System
Stainless Steel Bearings

Piscifun Salis X 5000 Round Baitcasting Reel

Piscifun-RL173-R
5000
Piscifun Salis X 5000 Round Baitcasting Reel Cover
Piscifun Salis X 5000 Baitcasting Fishing Reel, Round Level Wind Trolling Reel with 6.2:1 Gear Ratio, 37Lbs Max Drag, Stainless-Steel Bearing for Inshore Saltwater Fishing, Right Hand Retrieve

The Piscifun Salis X 5000 Round Baitcasting Reel is a powerful and durable reel designed for big game fishing in a variety of saltwater conditions. It features a 37lbs max drag, 6.2:1 gear ratio, braid ready spool, and a stainless steel crank handle. Customers have praised its smooth operation, fast retrieve, and incredible power. The only downside is that the lock screws and nut can strip easily.

What We Like
Durable and reliable
Smooth and efficient retrieval rate
Max drag of 37lbs
Suitable for inshore saltwater fishing
Designed for right-handed users

KATUYSHA JN08R Fishing Reel

KJN08R
Silver+blue
JN08(Right Hand)
KATUYSHA JN08R Fishing Reel Cover
Fishing Jigging Reel Conventional Reels - Lever Drag Saltwater Heavy Duty Deep Ocean Big Game Offshore Round Aluminum Trolling Reel - Saltwater Jigging Fishing Reels JN08R

KATUYSHA JN08R Reel is a versatile fishing tool designed for your convenience. The reel features a strong stainless steel screw and Teflon Paste to prevent looseness, ensuring durability. With a powerful lever drag brake system and smooth gear ratio, you can easily adjust for precision and smooth operation. The reel also offers increased line capacity for deep-water fishing and a CNC machined aluminum handle for strength and ease of use. Whether you're fishing offshore or in freshwater, this reel is a perfect gift for any fishing enthusiast.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Powerful lever drag brake system
Increased line capacity

Dr.Fish Long Shot 12000 Spinning Reel for Surf Fishing

DFRSYGC
LS-12000
Dr.Fish Long Shot 12000 Spinning Reel for Surf Fishing Cover
Dr.Fish Long Shot 12000 Spinning Reel, Saltwater Fishing Reel for Surf Fishing, 13+1 BBS, 48LB Max Drag, Ultra High Capacity, Heavy Duty Surf Casting Offshore Trolling Reel Catfish Reel

The Dr.Fish Long Shot 12000 Spinning Reel is a heavy-duty saltwater fishing reel designed for surf fishing. Its high-density, corrosion-resistant body makes it the perfect weapon for challenging the fiercest monsters under the sea. With an unprecedented 48LB max drag and a 3.9:1 rock-steady gear ratio, you'll have the advantage when fighting big game. Additionally, the 13+1 rust-resistant ball bearings offer buttery-smooth performance in both casting and retrieving. The reel also features a HUGE CNC aluminum spool that allows you to easily put more and heavier lines on your reel for bigger fights and longer, faster casts. The powerful aluminum handle helps you dominate every battle.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant body for repeat fights against the fiercest monsters under the sea
48LB max drag and 3.9:1 rock-steady gear ratio provide the advantage when fighting big game
13+1 rust-resistant ball bearings offer buttery-smooth performance in both casting and retrieving
HUGE CNC aluminum spool allows you to easily put more and heavier lines on your reel for bigger fights and longer, faster casts
Powerful aluminum handle helps you dominate every battle

One Bass TAL Conventional Saltwater Reel

43237-2
A-Silver-Gold
ATL40L
One Bass TAL Conventional Saltwater Reel Cover
One Bass Fishing Reels Level Wind Trolling Reel Conventional Jigging Reel for Saltwater Big Game Fishing-(TAL40L Silver-Gold-Left Haned)

The One Bass TAL Conventional Saltwater Reel is a powerful and reliable fishing reel with a superior carbon fiber drag system that offers up to 45 LB / 20KG of smooth drag. Its multi-disc carbonite drag system gives consistent stopping power with smoothness and durability. The reel's 6BB+1RB stainless steel bearings provide a smooth retrieve and are designed to withstand saltwater fishing conditions for years. The quick disassemble handle design, ergonomics handle knob, and CNC machine cut aircraft aluminum frame and spool make for a perfect drag system that can tackle most sea monsters.

What We Like
Powerful and reliable with up to 45 LB / 20KG of smooth drag
Multi-disc carbonite drag system provides consistent stopping power with smoothness and durability
6BB+1RB stainless steel bearings provide a smooth retrieve and are designed to withstand saltwater fishing conditions for years
#TOP 8

GOMEXUS HX50 Trolling Reel

GHX50GDGDTR
50W-740yd/100lbs
50W-740yd/100lbs
GOMEXUS HX50 Trolling Reel Cover
Gomexus Saltwater Trolling Reel Conventional Fishing Shark Offshore Game Reel Solid Powerful Silk Smooth Durable 2 Speed 90lbs 50W 10 Year Test

The GOMEXUS HX50 Trolling Reel is a solid and powerful reel made of premium materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. It features a 2-speed gear ratio and a wide line capacity, making it perfect for offshore game fishing. The unique design includes a smooth shift function and oversized CNC machine cut frame and spool. The drag system is top-notch, utilizing HT-100 carbon fiber drags with a max drag of 97lbs. Additionally, the 9 shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth operation. Overall, the GOMEXUS HX50 Trolling Reel is durable, saltwater resistant, and perfect for serious anglers.

What We Like
Premium materials such as aluminum and stainless steel
2-speed gear ratio and wide line capacity for offshore game fishing
Smooth shift function and oversized CNC machine cut frame and spool
Top-notch drag system utilizing HT-100 carbon fiber drags with a max drag of 97lbs
9 shielded stainless steel ball bearings for smooth operation

HAUT TON Big Game Surf Spinning Fishing Reel 12000

Golden
Large
HAUT TON Big Game Surf Spinning Fishing Reel 12000 Cover
Big Game Surf Spinning Fishing Reel 8000/12000,20KG Drag Power Backlash-Free Bearings,Metal Reel Seat,Zinc Alloy Gear for Saltwater Inshore and Offshore Fishing (HT-surfBG-12000)

HAUT TON Surf Reel is a durable fishing reel designed for saltwater environments. With an all-metal high-durability structure, it can withstand saltwater erosion and sand friction. The powerful drag system offers up to 44 pounds of drag force, making it easy to control when casting long distances or battling large fish. Its precise casting control reduces line tangles and ensures accurate casts. The extra-large line capacity spool allows for more fishing lines, perfect for long-range casting or deep-sea fishing.

What We Like
Durable in saltwater
Powerful drag system
Precise casting control
#TOP 10

Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Fishing Reel - 2 Speed Lever Drag

Channelmay
Silver
Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Fishing Reel - 2 Speed Lever Drag Cover
Saltwater Jigging Big Game Fishing Reel CNC Machined 2 Speed Lever Drag Deep Sea Boat Trolling Fishing Right Handed Only 44lb

The Channelmay Saltwater Jigging Fishing Reel is a powerful and durable choice for deep sea boat trolling fishing. The CNC machined 2 speed lever drag system allows for quick and easy adjustments, while the 7 ball bearings and one way clutch anti-reverse provide a smooth and reliable performance. With a max strike drag of 44lbs/20KG and a gear ratio of 4.5:1/2.1:1, this reel can handle big game fish with ease. The reel is right-handed only and made of high-quality aluminum and stainless steel bearings, making it lightweight yet sturdy. It has a line capacity of 20lb/330yds and weighs only 646grams/22.79oz, making it easy to handle during long fishing trips.

What We Like
The CNC machined 2 speed lever drag allows for quick and easy adjustments.
The 7 ball bearings and one way clutch anti-reverse provide a smooth and reliable performance.
The reel has a max strike drag of 44lbs/20KG and a gear ratio of 4.5:1/2.1:1, making it a powerful choice for big game fish.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best game fishing reel?

Shimano Tiagra. The Shimano Tiagra is an extremely popular game-fishing reel and has been touted as the top choice for serious big-game anglers.

2. What is a 5000 size reel used for?

The 5000 size is an excellent general go-to for targeting any kind of fish, such as bluefish or stripers. If the surf is down and I'm hunting whiting or flounder at the shore break, I'll go as small as a 3000. However, if I'm chasing big fish with big baits, I'll use a 7000 to 20,000.

3. How big is a 5000 series reel?

Choosing a fishing rod to go with this size reel: 5000 or 50 Sized reels are of medium size and will generally marry up well with 6-7ft barra or snapper rods rated up to 10Kg or will be great to use on light-med 10-11ft surf rod rated up to 6Kg or you could even use this fishing reel on an 8-9ft general purpose rod.

Editor's Notes

During our big game trolling fishing reel research, we found 24 big game trolling fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,585 customer reviews through our big data system to write the big game trolling fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose big game trolling fishing reels with an average price of $98.47.

The big game trolling fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of big game trolling fishing reels, including PENN, Sougayilang, One Bass, Piscifun, KATUYSHA. 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.