When you’re fishing in the surf your reel is probably the most important piece of equipment.
It needs to be able to cast well, handle a big fish, and survive the harsh conditions that the surf is going to throw at it.
After considering all the options our top picks were…
Much like how there are an array of polarized fishing specs to pick from, it isn’t easy to find the right reel that matches your surf rod and you’ll probably have to try and test a few before you find the one that suits you.
There are a lot to choose from and to make it a little easier, we have put a review together of the best surf fishing reels out there. We’re covering all types of reels in this article but if you want to see our best picks for surf casting reels or surf spinning reels we’ve got you covered also.
The Top Three
Here are our top three best surf fishing reels from the lineup, each one in its own category.
This is so you can have a variety of surf fishing reels to choose from depending on your needs…
Best All-Rounder
Daiwa Sealine-X SHA
This is a great multi-purpose reel that you can use for trolling, jigging and casting. The free-floating spool separates the spool from the gear train for less friction and for long distance casting.
Daiwa Sealine-X SHA
When it comes to the all-rounder surf fishing reel we’re looking for a reel that casts well, will handle the tough conditions, has some great features and is good value. This reel will do everything you want and need.
The all-rounder best surf fishing reel of the line up is the Daiwa Sealine-X SHA conventional reel. This reel is really well-made, casts like a dream and can be used as either a trolling or baitcasting reel.
Best on a Budget
Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel
This is a lightweight saltwater spinning reel that’s made more for inshore fishing, although the max drag and line capacity on the highest model is big enough for the surf.
Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel
Here we want a surf fishing reel that does the basics well and will survive life in the surf. We’ll forgo some of the add on features for better value and have a sturdy reel for surf fishing that you can rely on for the best price possible.
The best surf fishing reel on a budget is the Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel. It’s a spin reel for saltwater with an incredible value and is well made from high-quality materials. It’s lightweight with an ok line capacity and the drag is powerful enough, but can be glitchy.
Editor’s Choice
Quantum Cabo PT
Quantum has put a lot of thought into this spinning reel. It’s made up of Quantum’s own SCR aluminum which eliminates impurities, removing any weak spots for corrosion.
Quantum Cabo PT
The editor’s choice is about the best surf fishing reel in the review. The reel that has had thought put into it, is well made and has all the extra features to make sure that you can fish as comfortably and confidently as possible.
This is the Quantum Cabo PT. They really put a lot of thought into this spinning reel and it’s designed for the saltwater through and through. Everything from the materials to the design is made for surf fishing. The only issue is it’s pretty heavy.
Our top picks…
Here are our top choices of surfing fishing reels on the market today.
We’ve compared the surf fishing reels against each other but they’re all great surf fishing reels in their own right.
Daiwa BG
The Daiwa BG features an aluminum body, rotor and side plates, making it an excellent candidate for the surf.
Daiwa BG
The Daiwa BG features an aluminum body, rotor and side plates, making it an excellent candidate for the surf. Their Digigear system gives the reel a smooth retrieve and the largest model has an excellent retrieve rate thanks to the gear ratio and spool size.
The drag is sealed, smooth and powerful and the line capacity is huge…
The drag is sealed, smooth and powerful and the line capacity is huge. If you’re into big surf fish from the beach, this reel has got your back. The spool is braid-ready and has a large diameter to reduce line memory and small coils that can cause wind knots.
The bail arm has been specifically designed to reduce twists and loops, meaning you can focus on fishing rather than having to fiddle around. The bail roller does corrode on occasion, this is one of the drawbacks of this reel. It’s easy to replace though. The reel is also heavy for its class, which is good for its power and durability but it’ll get tiring to cast with all day.
Specs
- Mono capacity LB/YD: 20/550, 25/440, 30/370
- Braid capacity LB/YD: 50/730, 65/590, 80/440
- Max Drag: 33lb
- Gear Ratio: 5:3:1
- Ball bearings: 7
- Weight: 30oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 53.3 inch
- Retrieve Side: Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Has a powerful and smooth drag that is sealed.
- A great line capacity with a high retrieve rate.
- Well made with corrosion-resistant materials.
Cons
- It’s heavy to cast with, but its weight is a sign of how tough it is.
- The roller on the bail arm can corrode but it’s easily replaced.
PENN Battle II
The Penn Battle II is a great reel for surf fishing. The side plates, rotor, and body are made for durability in the saltwater.
PENN Battle II
The Penn Battle II is a great reel for surf fishing. The side plates, rotor, and body are made for durability in the saltwater. The full metal body is rigid to hold the gear alignment tightly for a smoother retrieve. This reel has a high retrieve rate thanks to the gears and ratio, your line will come in quickly at 44 inches per crank.
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The main gear can corrode after a few seasons of heavy use but it’s easy to replace.
It comes with Penn’s slammer drag which is one of the best out there. It’s made up of carbon fiber discs, great for corrosion, and the maximum drag power setting is high enough. However, the drag isn’t sealed and you’ll have to look after it.
The surf fishing spinning reel comes with anti-reverse and a braid-ready spool. The spool also features line capacity rings making it easy to fill. The reel is a tad heavy for casting with all day.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB: 340/20, 310/25, 230/30
- Braid capacity YD/LB: 475/50, 390/65, 345/80
- Max Drag: 30lb
- Gear Ratio: 5:3:1
- Ball bearings: 6
- Weight: 30.2oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 44”
- Retrieve Side: Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- Excellent retrieve rate and line capacity.
- Strong and durable drag system.
- It’s well made from quality materials.
- Full metal body for added durability.
Cons
- It’s a bit heavy, but that’s what you need for a larger saltwater fish.
- You may have to change out the main gear after a few seasons.
- You’ll have to maintain the reel well as it isn’t sealed.
Shimano Stradic CI4+
The body of this spinning reel is made out of carbon fiber. This makes it extremely strong, corrosion-resistant and light. It’ll be a pleasure to cast all day.
Shimano Stradic CI4+
The body of this Shimano spinning reel is made out of carbon fiber. This makes it extremely strong, corrosion-resistant and light. It’ll be a pleasure to cast all day.
Carbon Fiber Drag
The Shimano Stradic CI4 has a carbon fiber drag system too, adding to how light the reel is and it’s sealed for protection against grit and salt. The fishing reel includes X-ship technology which supports the gear system under a heavy load. This’ll help you cast further and give you the edge when you’re fighting fish. The maximum drag isn’t huge but it’ll do for most fish.
The line capacity isn’t that great compared to other saltwater surf fishing reels and you might worry if you hooked a big game fish from the beach. The retrieve is fast and smooth thanks to the gears, ratio and ball bearings. The fishing reel bearings are also sealed to protect the fishing reel from the surf.
Shimano has included a grooved power roller to reduce twists and wind knots which makes it a good surf fishing reel.
NOTE
The bearing on the line roller can break in rare cases and Shimano will replace it if it happens. The bail arm can also be a tad stiff, bear that in mind if you like an easy bail.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB: 220/10
- Braid capacity LB/YD: 15/280, 30/170, 50/150
- Max Drag: 24lb
- Gear Ratio: 6:2:1
- Ball bearings: 6+1
- Weight: 8.1oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 39 inch
- Retrieve Side: Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- The carbon body makes the reel super light.
- Has a propulsion line management system to reduce twisting and wind knots.
- The reel’s very durable and sealed.
Cons
- The line capacity is a tad small for big fish.
- The line roller bearing may break and need replacing.
- The bail arm is stiff.
Editor’s Choice
Quantum Cabo PT Spin Reel
Quantum has put a lot of thought into this spinning reel. It’s made up of Quantum’s own SCR aluminum which eliminates impurities, removing any weak spots for corrosion.
Quantum Cabo PT Spin Reel
Quantum has put a lot of thought into this spinning fishing reel. It’s made up of Quantum’s own SCR aluminum which eliminates impurities, removing any weak spots for corrosion.
It’s made up of Quantum’s own SCR aluminum which eliminates impurities, removing any weak spots for corrosion…
It has a great line capacity and an even better drag. It’s sealed, the maximum drag is huge at 50lbs and it’s made up of carbon fiber and ceramic washers, for power and smoothness.
The foot of the reel is offset to shift the weight of the reel rearward on the rod. This balances long surf rods for better casting and sensitivity.
The spool is braided line ready and has been specifically made to increase your surf casting distance. The line comes off the lip very easily in tight coils, this reduces the friction on the spool and the fishing rod guides, for longer, easier casts.
Sealed and Coated
As well as being sealed, the fishing reel is coated in primers and finishes for extra durability against the sea but it’s really heavy. At 50oz, you’ll feel the pain casting this all day. The braid can bunch up on the surf fishing spinning reel when filling it and it may take some time. The instant anti-reverse bearing can also fail to engage but this is rare.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB: 300/20
- Braid capacity YD/LB: 380/65
- Max Drag: 50lb
- Gear Ratio: 4:9:1
- Ball bearings: 8
- Weight: 40oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 38
- Retrieve Side: Right/Left Full Specs
Pros
- The line capacity is great.
- The materials used are the highest quality.
- It has a huge max drag power.
Cons
- It’s really heavy, 10oz more than other surf reels in the line-up.
- Braid can bunch on the spool when you first set it up.
- In rare cases, the anti-reverse fails to engage.
Best on a Budget
Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel
This is a lightweight reel that’s made more for inshore fishing, although the max drag and line capacity on the highest model is big enough for most surf fishing.
Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel
This is a lightweight saltwater fishing reel that’s made more for inshore fishing, although the max drag and line capacity on the highest model is big enough for most surf fishing.
The drag is made up of a combination of carbon fiber and stainless steel washers that pushes a max of 33lbs…
The SeaKnight comes in 5 different sizes but the best reel size for surf fishing are the 5000 and 6000 that can cast long distances.
The drag is made up of a combination of carbon fiber and stainless steel washers that pushes a max of 33lbs, enough stopping power for most fish. The drag isn’t sealed though, so you may have to do consistent maintenance and it can be a bit catchy and not so smooth drag.
It comes with a sealed aluminum spool and rotor that stops water and sand from getting into the gears. The spool is also braided line ready, making it easy to fill up. If you aren’t sure what braid fishing line to use, read my review of the best braided fishing lines here.
The retrieve ratio is 4.7 to 1, which is pretty good for the surf, you may have to wind a bit faster than with other reels though.
The SeaKnight could be an entry level surf reel for surf fishermen who are just starting out.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB: 12/325, 250/20
- Braid capacity YD/LB: 60/325, 80/250, 100/195
- Max Drag: 33.07lb
- Gear Ratio: 4:7:1
- Ball bearings: 11
- Weight: 13.7oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: N/A
- Retrieve Side Left/Right Full Specs
Pros
- Super lightweight, you won’t get tired casting all day.
- Made of quality materials.
- The spool is sealed to protect the gears.
Cons
- The drag can be a tad catchy and not so smooth.
- The line capacity is a little small for the surf.
- The retrieve rate is a little slow.
Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel
Really lightweight and comfortable to use. The reel has a low max drag of 12lbs, not ideal for any large fish but if you’re just after panfish from the beach it’ll work fine
Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel
The President XT low profile baitcasting reel is really lightweight and comfortable to use.
The casting reel has a low max drag of 12lbs, not ideal for any large fish but if you’re just after panfish from the beach it’ll work fine. The line capacity also reflects the maximum drag, you won’t get much heavy braided line on here for bringing in large fish.
It has a high gear ratio of 7.3 to 1, which is 7 turns to 1 wind and with the 9 bearing system, it’s very smooth. It’ll be great for topwater lure fishing. The reel is made up of C30 aluminum side plates and is very durable. The braking system is magnetic for great casting and the handle is also aluminum.
Specs
- Mono capacity YD/LB: 145/12, 125/14, 100/17
- Braid capacity YD/LB: 185/20 140/30 100/50
- Max Drag: 12lb
- Gear Ratio: 7:3:1
- Ball bearings: 9
- Weight: 6.8oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 31 inch
- Retrieve Side: Right Full Specs
Pros
- Smooth and quick retrieve.
- It’s made for durable materials.
- The reel is really light and great for casting.
Cons
- Small maximum drag.
- Small line capacity.
- Not really made for big fish.
Best All-Rounder
Daiwa Sealine-X SHA Conventional Saltwater Reel
This is a great multi-purpose reel that you can use for trolling, jigging and casting. The free-floating spool separates the spool from the gear train for less friction and long casts.
Daiwa Sealine-X SHA Conventional Saltwater Reel
a great multi-purpose reel that you can use for trolling, jigging and casting…
This is a great multi-purpose reel that you can use for trolling, jigging and casting. The free-floating spool separates the spool from the gear train for less friction and long casts. The spool is really fast, which is great for casting but can cause backlashes easily. The maximum drag is a little light at 17.6lb, it’ll cover most things but isn’t as powerful as other reels in the review.
Build
It’s made up of great materials that make it light for casting while being really durable. It’ll last a long time and it’s easy to take apart and maintain. The spool is aluminum and the gears are made from stainless steel and marine bronze. The line capacity is great and so is the retrieve rate.
Specs
- Mono capacity LB/YD: 30/350, 40/310, 50/220
- Braid capacity LB/YD: N/A
- Max Drag: 17.6lb
- Gear Ratio: 6:1:1
- Ball bearings: 7
- Weight: 19.6oz
- Retrieve rate, per crank: 46 inch
- Retrieve Side: Right Full Specs
Pros
- Great fishing line capacity.
- Excellent for casting.
- Multi-purpose, can be used for trolling and casting.
- Lightweight
Cons
- The max drag is a little low.
- Backlashes are common.
What to Look for
These are the factors to think about when you’re buying a surf fishing reel.
What are you fishing for?
You’re going to need a reel that can handle the size of the surf fish you’re targeting. If you love catching striped bass or even sharks from the beach, then you’ll need a saltwater surf fishing reel that won’t fail you when that 8ft shark takes your bait. If you’re more into fishing for panfish, then you’ll want a reel that is a bit lighter so you can enjoy the fight.
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If you love fishing for both, then a reel that can do both is the answer. Consider what you’ll be fishing for before you buy.
Line Capacity
When you fish in the surf, there isn’t a boat handy to chase down a fish with so you can gain some line. You’re going to have to handle it with the line you have on your reel. This is where your line capacity comes into play.
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Be sure to check the line capacity is big enough for your needs.
You don’t want to have the fish of your dreams run off with all your bait and line.
Using Braid
Braid is key these days in terms of casting distance, line capacity, and longevity. If you’re fishing in the surf, you’ll most likely be using it and you’ll want a reel that is made for it.
If you’re new to using braid lines, you might want to follow this easy step-by-step guide on how to properly spool your reel. A correctly spooled reel will reduce tangles, improve the longevity of your line and also aid with improving your casting distance.
And also, when switching from mono to braid, you need to learn braided line knots. You can’t just use mono knots as they are going to slip and break off.
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Most reels today come with braid-ready spools, but just check first.
How Heavy Is The Reel
Surf fishing involves a lot of casting and using a heavy reel is going to make casting tiring. Choosing a lighter surf fishing reel will make casting easier and more enjoyable. That being said, you might need the power that comes with a heavy surf fishing reel, especially if you’re targeting big saltwater game fish.
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Try to find a surf fishing reel that has enough power for your needs but is also light for its class.
Corrosion & Durability
The surf involves fishing on sand, or rocks and in the constant spray of the sea. We all know what this can do to surf reels, it can hurt them, and quickly. Be sure that the surf fishing reel you choose is made of corrosion-resistant materials and has a water intrusion protection system. This’ll give the reel the best chance of lasting life in the surf.
Drag, Strong and Smooth
Your drag needs to be reliable for surf fishing as you never quite know what you’re going to hook. You’ll need a durable, strong and smooth drag system. Make sure it’s sealed, has enough power and is made of corrosion-resistant quality materials.
Reels that have a live liner mode such as spinfisher and baitrunner reels can also be great for surf fishing. The live liner mode allows fish to run with less or no resistance which can help when setting hooks.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratio dictates how quickly you can wind your line in. If the gear ratio on the reel is 6:5:1, the reel will spin 6.5 times for every 1 turn of the handle. If you need a fast retrieve rate on your reel, think about the ratio.
Baitcaster V’s Spinning Reels
Baitcasters or baitcasting reels can offer a higher gear ratios than spinning reels, giving you a quicker retrieve. They also cast further and more accurately than spinning reels, as the spool is in line with your surf fishing rod rather than being horizontal.
Baitcasters are much harder to cast with and require a lot of practice to learn how to use. You’ll suffer a lot more backlashes than you would with a spin reel until you become a pro.
But which fishing reel type is the best? Click here to find out the answer.
Conclusion
After considering all the options our top surf fishing reels were…
Best All-Rounder
The Daiwa Sealine-X SHA conventional reel wins the all-rounder prize. The reel is multi-purpose and can be used for trolling, jigging and casting. It’s made of high-quality materials and casts beautifully. If you’re not used to baitcasters, this one’s fast and can cause backlashes. The only issue is the max drag is a little low.
Best on a Budget
The best surf fishing reel on a budget is the Seaknight Rapid Saltwater Reel. It has everything you need to start surf fishing. It’s sealed, well made from high-quality materials and has an average line capacity. The drag is powerful enough but can be glitchy sometimes and the gear ratio isn’t the highest.
Editor’s Choice
The editor’s choice among the best surf fishing reels goes to the Quantum Cabo PT. Quantum has pretty much thought of everything when it comes to this fishing gear. It’s made from the highest-quality materials, has an incredible maximum drag and a huge line capacity. The reel is very heavy though and that’s due to its quality.
If you’re still looking for other surf fishing worthy options. You might want to consider getting a surf rod and reel combo.
Thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed the article and found the surf reel for you, and be sure to pair it with a strong fishing rod for a successful surf fishing.
