Best Star Drag Trolling Fishing Reels of 2025

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

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Star drag trolling fishing reels are a popular choice among anglers who crave precision and control when trolling for big game fish. These reels offer a smooth and consistent drag system that allows for easy adjustments while fighting fish. They are designed with durable materials that can withstand the saltwater environment and heavy use. With features like high gear ratios and large line capacities, star drag trolling fishing reels are perfect for targeting species like tuna, marlin, and sailfish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, these reels are a reliable choice for any offshore fishing adventure.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN Squall II Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN Squall II Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel Cover #TOP 2
Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel - Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel - Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Star Drag Trolling Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

PENN Squall II Fishing Reel

SQLII40SD
Black Gold
SQLII40SD
PENN Squall II Fishing Reel Cover
Penn Squall II Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel, SQLII40SD,Black Gold

The PENN Squall II Reel is designed for serious anglers. Its graphite frame and side plates make it lightweight yet durable, ensuring you can fish for hours without fatigue. The main gear, crafted from high-strength marine-grade bronze alloy, offers exceptional durability, allowing you to tackle tough fish with confidence. The stainless steel pinion gear enhances smooth operation, providing a seamless experience when reeling in your catch. Additionally, the live spindle with a free-floating spool gives you better control and accuracy, making every cast count. This reel is ideal for those looking to elevate their fishing experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
High-strength main gear
Smooth operation
Improved control and accuracy
#TOP 2

Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel

CV-45L
Black
Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel Cover
Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel (430 Yards- 25LB), Black

The Okuma Convector Star Drag CV-45L Levelwind Trolling Reel is a reliable and high-quality fishing reel made with durable stainless steel XL gearing system, 2 stainless steel ball bearings, and a multi-disk carbonite drag system. It also features a quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing and dual anti-reverse feature on all sizes. This fishing reel is a top choice among professionals worldwide, ensuring that you're getting a product that's been tested for its reliability and quality.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel XL gearing system
Multi-disk carbonite drag system
Quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing
Dual anti-reverse feature on all sizes
Used by professionals worldwide

Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel - Fishing Reel

CZ-5CSa
Gray
Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel - Fishing Reel Cover
Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel 5 SZ 15Lb. Max Drag Pressure

This fishing reel has a compact design with the package dimensions of 17.526 x 9.652 x 12.192 cm (L x W x H). Okuma Cortez "a" Star Drag Reel is suitable for those who love fishing with its 15lb maximum drag pressure. As a fishing reel, it is designed to provide an enjoyable fishing experience.

What We Like
Compact design
15lb maximum drag pressure
Designed for fishing enthusiasts
#TOP 4

PENN Warfare Level Wind Reel

WAR20LWLH
Black
WAR20LWLH
PENN Warfare Level Wind Reel Cover
PENN Warfare Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Made with Corrosion-Resistant Graphite Frame,Black, WAR20LWLH

The PENN Level Wind Reel is a lightweight and durable fishing reel designed for nearshore and offshore fishing. It features a corrosion-resistant graphite frame with graphite sideplates, providing long-lasting performance. The machined brass main and pinion gears offer a fast recovery rate, allowing you to reel in your catch quickly. The instant anti-reverse ball bearing ensures smooth and predictable operation, even in tough conditions. With the HT-100 star drag system, this reel can handle a maximum drag of 15lb, providing the power needed to exhaust the fish without wearing you down. The level wind system prevents lines from piling up, tangling, or snagging, ensuring hassle-free fishing. With its impressive line capacity, this reel is suitable for various fishing styles.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Fast recovery rate
Smooth and predictable operation
#TOP 5

Okuma Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel

CLX-300La
Black
Okuma Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel Cover
Okuma CLX-300La Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel, 300 Reel Size, 3.8: 1 Gear Ratio, 24" Retrieve Rate, 17 lb Max Drag, Right Hand,Black

The Okuma Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant fishing reel. It features a graphite spool that is also resistant to corrosion, a stainless steel reel foot, and an aluminum power handle. This reel is perfect for fishing enthusiasts who are looking for a durable and reliable fishing reel.

What We Like
Lightweight and corrosion-resistant frame and side plates
Corrosion-resistant graphite spools
Stainless steel reel foot

Penn 209M General Purpose Level Wind Fishing Reel

209M
Black
290yd/20lbs
Penn 209M General Purpose Level Wind Fishing Reel Cover
PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 10lb | 4.5kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates, 290yd/20lbs, Black

The Penn 209M General Purpose Level Wind Fishing Reel features a gear ratio of 3.2:1, a line capacity of 20/320, and a weight of 19 ounces. It also comes with bushings, a stainless steel reel stand, and a box in black color. The level wind feature helps to distribute the line evenly across the spool, making it easier for you to cast and retrieve. This reel is designed for general purpose fishing and can be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

What We Like
Level wind feature for even line distribution
Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing
Stainless steel reel stand for durability

PENN Special Senator Star Drag Reel

113H2SP
Multi
One Size
PENN Special Senator Star Drag Reel Cover
PENN Special Senator Star Drag Conventional Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 20lb | 9.0kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool

The PENN Special Senator Star Drag Reel is a lightweight fishing reel with a graphite frame that features a precision-machined stainless steel pinion gear and high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear. The multi-disk star drag system is designed to provide smooth and consistent drag, while the machined and anodized aluminum spool ensures durability and reliability during use.

What We Like
Lightweight graphite frame
Precision-machined stainless steel pinion gear
Multi-disk star drag system for smooth and consistent drag
#TOP 8

Okuma Convector Line Counter Reel

CV-30D
Black
Okuma Convector Line Counter Reel Cover
Okuma Convector Star Drag Line Counter Reel (25/310), Black

The Okuma Convector Reel is designed with precision in mind, featuring high-quality brass gears that ensure smooth operation. Its mechanical line counter helps you track your line in feet, making it easier to manage your fishing efforts. With the Clear View Technology, you can rely on an anti-fogging line counter, ensuring visibility in varying conditions. Additionally, the automatic trip and spool engagement mechanism enhances your fishing experience by allowing for seamless transitions when you're ready to reel in your catch.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Accurate line measurement
Anti-fogging technology
Seamless spool engagement
#TOP 9

PENN Senator Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel

115L2
Multicolor
700yd/50lbs
PENN Senator Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Senator Star Drag Conventional Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 24lb | 10.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool, 700yd/50lbs

The PENN Senator Conventional Reel is a durable and reliable fishing reel designed for nearshore and offshore fishing. It features a machined and anodized aluminum spool with Bakelite sideplates, providing durability and strength to withstand tough fishing conditions. The reel is equipped with a marine-grade bronze main gear and stainless steel pinion gear, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. With a multi-stop bearing system, this reel offers control and stability during intense battles with fish. The HT-100 star drag system allows for easy drag adjustment, making it suitable for fighting challenging opponents. The PENN Senator Conventional Reel also has a large line capacity, providing ample space for different fishing lines. Overall, this reel is a great choice for anglers looking for a high-quality and versatile fishing reel.

What We Like
Durable and reliable
Smooth and efficient operation
Easy drag adjustment
#TOP 10

PENN Fathom II Star Drag Reel, Size 25

FTHII25NSD
Black Gold
25| Right | 4.8:1
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Reel, Size 25 Cover
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Reel, Size 25 Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Black Gold

The Penn Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel is designed for any battle with its full metal body, live spindle design, and easy maintenance. With a recovery rate of 42” and 7 total bearings, including an instant anti-reverse feature, this reel provides a smooth operation for any fishing experience. It also features a HT-100 Star Drag Versa-Drag System with a max drag of 30lb and a centrifugal braking system that is easy to adjust. The right handle position with a single-handle design provides comfort for any user.

What We Like
Full metal body and live spindle design provide effortless casts and simple maintenance
7 total bearings with instant anti-reverse and a recovery rate of 42" for smooth operation
HT-100 Star Drag Versa-Drag System with a max drag of 30lb and easy-to-adjust centrifugal braking system
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you troll with star drag?

There's absolutely nothing wrong with trolling with star drag reels. The only thing you lose is the ability to easily get back to a certain drag setting.

2. Which is better lever drag or star drag?

The star drag is used to progressively tighten the drag, some will have a ratchet system and some will not, they will just tighten the drag quietly....In Conclusion.

3. How do you use a star drag reel?

PENN Squall Star Drag ReelShimano Torium Star Drag ReelPENN Warfare Star Drag ReelAvet 5.8 Star DragDaiwa Saltist Star Drag Conventional ReelPenn Rival Level Wind ReelPENN Torque Star Drag Conventional ReelOkuma Classic Levelwind Star Drag ReelPENN Senator Star Drag ReelWinning Moves Games Fishing Tackle Classic Level Wind Star Drag Graphite Trolling ReelDaiwa Seagate Star Drag ConventionalPENN Fathom Star Drag Conventional ReelOkuma Cortez Star Drag ReelPENN Squall Lever Drag Conventional ReelPENN Warfare Level Wind Conventional ReelTrolling Fishing Reel With Line Counter 16lbs Star Drag SmoothPENN Squall Lever Drag 2-SpeedOkuma Tesoro Star Drag ReelTrolling Reel Star Drag Metal Aluminum Saltwater Conventional Reel Big

Editor's Notes

During our star drag trolling fishing reel research, we found 24 star drag trolling fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 18,213 customer reviews through our big data system to write the star drag trolling fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose star drag trolling fishing reels with an average price of $110.89.

The star drag trolling fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of star drag trolling fishing reels, including PENN, OKUMA. 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.