Best Trolling Reels For Trout of 2025
For any angler serious about trolling for trout, the reel is a critical part of the setup. It’s more than just a place to hold your line; a good trolling reel must handle the constant drag of lures and the explosive runs of a hooked trout. The ideal reel provides a smooth, reliable drag system, a comfortable handle for long hours on the water, and the durability to withstand the rigors of frequent use. Whether you’re targeting brook trout in a mountain lake or a large lake trout in a deep reservoir, the right reel will give you the control and confidence you need to land your fish.
1. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel
- Reel Frame: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite
- Drag System: Multi-disc Carbonite drag
- Bearings: 2 stainless steel ball bearings
- Key Feature: Mechanical line counter in feet
The Okuma Magda Pro is a legendary name in the world of trolling, and for good reason. It’s a workhorse reel that’s both lightweight and compact, making it perfect for long days on the water. Built with a durable, corrosion-resistant graphite frame and side plates, this reel can withstand the rigors of freshwater use without adding unnecessary weight to your setup. Its standout feature is the mechanical line counter, which measures line in feet as you let it out. This is a game-changer for trout trolling, as it allows you to consistently drop your lure back to the exact depth and distance where you found fish, eliminating guesswork and boosting your success rate. When a fish hits and screams line off the spool, you’ll know exactly how far it ran.
This reel is built for smooth performance under pressure. The multi-disc Carbonite drag system is a high-quality feature that provides a consistent and smooth drag, which is crucial for handling the fast, powerful runs of a trout. You won’t have to worry about jerky drags causing line breaks or pulled hooks. The two stainless steel ball bearings, combined with a self-lubricating gear system, ensure a smooth retrieve even when you’re cranking in from a great distance. The Magda Pro is available in multiple sizes and both left and right-hand retrieve, so you can find the perfect model for your specific needs, whether you’re targeting small Kokanee or big lake trout. It’s a durable and reliable reel that’s a staple in many anglers’ boats.
- Pros: Excellent value for a line counter reel, lightweight and corrosion-resistant, smooth Carbonite drag system, and the mechanical line counter is highly effective
- Cons: A reel with only two bearings may not be as smooth as higher-end models
2. Okuma MA-20DLXT New Magda Linecounter Reel
- Reel Size: Magda Pro Size 15
- Gear Ratio: 5.1:1
- Drag System: Multi-disc Carbonite drag
- Bearings: 2 stainless steel ball bearings
The Okuma MA-20DLXT New Magda Linecounter Reel is a solid and dependable choice for trout trolling, offering a reliable set of features at an affordable price. This reel is built with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite frame and side plates, which ensures it can handle the tough conditions of freshwater fishing without weighing down your setup. It is specifically a size 15 reel, which is a great all-purpose size for trout, providing a good balance of line capacity and a manageable size. The reel’s primary strength is its no-nonsense, functional design that prioritizes performance and durability over excessive features.
The reel is equipped with a smooth multi-disc Carbonite drag system, which provides consistent drag pressure, essential for fighting a hard-running fish. It also features 2 stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth retrieve. The 5.1:1 gear ratio is a good all-around choice that provides a balance of power and a decent retrieval rate, making it versatile enough for a variety of trolling presentations. The mechanical line counter is a key feature that helps you consistently place your lure at the exact depth and distance where fish are feeding, making you a more effective angler. The Okuma Magda is a staple in the trolling world for its reliability and value, and this model is a great option for any angler who needs a dependable line counter reel.
- Pros: Lightweight and durable graphite body, reliable line counter, smooth Carbonite drag, and a great value for the price
- Cons: A lower number of bearings compared to some competitors, and the 5.1:1 gear ratio is not as powerful as a lower ratio
3. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
- Reel Frame: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite
- Drag System: Multi-disc Carbonite drag
- Key Feature: Ratcheting drag star for precise settings
- Gearing: XL gearing with a self-lubricating system
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is a testament to quality and reliability, built to meet the demands of serious anglers. This reel is designed with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant frame and side plates, making it perfect for long hours of trolling. Its standout feature is the ratcheting drag star, which provides precise drag settings and prevents it from loosening during a fight. A dependable drag system is crucial for trout trolling, and the multi-disc Carbonite drag in this reel delivers a consistently smooth performance that helps prevent line breaks and pulled hooks, especially on long, fast runs by big fish.
This reel is also designed for powerful and smooth performance. It features a drop-down gear box with XL gearing, which provides a self-lubricating gear system that is incredibly durable and built to handle the constant load of trolling. The XL gearing also gives you a lot of cranking power, making it easier to retrieve heavy lures or a big fish from a distance. The line counter is a critical feature that helps you keep your lure in the strike zone, and this reel is trusted by professionals worldwide for its accuracy and reliability. The Okuma Cold Water is a serious trolling reel that provides a perfect combination of durability, precision, and power, making it a fantastic investment for any angler.
- Pros: High-quality, precise drag system, durable XL gearing for power, reliable line counter, and a tough, corrosion-resistant frame
- Cons: Generally more expensive than the Magda series, and the specific number of bearings is not mentioned
4. Sougayilang Line Counter Fishing Trolling Reel
- Drag System: Full Carbonite drag with 20 lbs of drag power
- Gears: Heavy-duty brass gears
- Warranty: Three-year Worry-Free Service
- Handle: Ergonomic, comfortable grip
The Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel is a surprisingly powerful and feature-rich reel that offers incredible value for its price. Built on a powerful star drag foundation, this reel boasts heavy-duty brass gears and a full Carbonite drag system that can output up to 20 lbs of drag power. This is more than enough to handle the powerful runs of a big trout and gives you the confidence to fight any fish that comes your way. The aluminum ratcheting drag star allows you to set precise drag settings that won’t slip during a fight. The reel’s overall build is exceptionally solid and durable, making it a great choice for anglers who need a reliable reel that can withstand frequent use.
One of the best things about this reel is its ease of use. It’s designed to fit comfortably in your hand, which is a huge plus for anglers who spend a lot of time on the water. The smooth drag and anti-reverse roller bearings work very well, providing a great fishing experience. The line counter is a key feature that makes it fast and easy to get your lure back into the strike zone after checking it or reeling in a fish. You can simply let the line out until the counter hits the desired number, which is far more accurate than counting pulls by hand. Backed by a three-year Worry-Free Service, this reel is a fantastic investment for anglers who want a durable, powerful, and affordable trolling reel.
- Pros: Powerful 20 lbs of drag, durable brass gears, comfortable ergonomic design, and a three-year warranty is a huge bonus
- Cons: May not have the brand reputation of some competitors, and the specific number of bearings is not mentioned
5. Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel
- Reel Frame: Lightweight, durable graphite
- Gear Ratio: 5.1:1
- Max Drag: 15 lb Multi-disc drag system
- Bearings: 2 ball bearings
The Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel is a conventional reel that delivers reliable performance and great value for freshwater trolling. Made with lightweight and durable graphite materials, this reel is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use without weighing down your setup. It’s available with both a line counter and a non-line counter option, giving you the flexibility to choose the right model for your specific needs. The stainless steel level wind system, combined with 2 ball bearings, provides a smooth gear feel and an effortless line lay, which is crucial for preventing tangles and ensuring smooth operation during a retrieve.
This reel is equipped with a dependable multi-disc drag system that provides a consistent and reliable star drag. With a max drag of 15 lbs, it has more than enough stopping power to tire out a hard-fighting trout. The 5.1:1 gear ratio provides a good balance of power and a decent retrieval rate, making it a versatile choice for many trolling applications. The reel also features a selective on/off bait clicker, which is a useful feature for detecting strikes while trolling. With a generous line capacity for both monofilament and braided lines, the Shakespeare ATS is a solid, no-frills reel that is perfect for anglers who want a reliable and affordable trolling reel without a lot of unnecessary features. It is a workhorse reel that gets the job done.
- Pros: Great value, dependable drag system, level wind system for smooth line lay, and a lightweight graphite frame
- Cons: Only 2 ball bearings, which may not be as smooth as higher-end reels, and the max drag is lower than some competitors
6. Sougayilang Line Counter Trolling Reel
- Drag System: Powerful Carbon Disc Drag with 35 lbs of drag power
- Bearings: 6 stainless-steel ball bearings + 1 instant anti-reverse bearing
- Gears: Precision machined brass main gear and stainless-steel pinion gear
- Key Feature: Line clicker function for strike detection
The Sougayilang RZC20 is a powerful and feature-rich trolling reel that is built to hunt monsters, making it an excellent choice for anglers who are targeting big lake trout or other large fish. This reel is a true power machine, with top-class carbon fiber washers that deliver an incredible 35 lbs of drag power. This is a game-changer for fighting against the biggest fish with ease. The precision Japanese-cut gearing system, made with a brass main gear and a stainless-steel pinion gear, ensures a consistent and smooth operation under heavy load, giving you the power and reliability you need for tough trolling conditions.
This reel is also packed with high-performance components that are designed for smooth and trouble-free operation. It uses 6 stainless steel ball bearings in high-stress points plus an instant anti-reverse bearing, which provides a super smooth feel and prevents any backward play in the handle. The line clicker function is a great feature that makes it easy to release planer boards and also works as a strike detection system while trolling. The lightweight graphite frame and side plates are durable and corrosion-resistant, and the powerful stainless steel handle with a comfortable round knob gives you more leverage for fighting larger fish. With its impressive features and strong build, the Sougayilang RZC20 offers more than you’d expect from a reel in its class.
- Pros: Incredible 35 lbs of drag power, 6+1 bearings for super smooth operation, durable brass and stainless steel gears, and a line clicker for strike detection
- Cons: A reel with a graphite body may not be as rigid as one with an aluminum frame, and the specific gear ratio is not listed
7. Piscifun Chaos XS Trolling Reel
- Reel Frame: Reinforced 7075 aircraft grade aluminum frame
- Drag System: Premium Carbon Fiber Drag with 22 lbs of stopping power
- Bearings: 6+1 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- Gears: Precision-cut brass main gear
The Piscifun Chaos XS is a professional-grade baitcasting reel that is also an excellent choice for trout trolling, particularly for anglers who want a compact and powerful reel. The reel is built with a reinforced 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum frame, which is incredibly strong and durable while still being lightweight. This rigid frame ensures that the internal gears stay in perfect alignment under heavy load, providing a consistently smooth and powerful retrieve. The premium Carbon Fiber Drag System provides up to 22 pounds of stopping power, which is more than enough to handle a trophy trout and stop it in its tracks. The precision-cut brass main gear and 6+1 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings work together to provide a super smooth and powerful operation that you’ll appreciate during a long fight.
This reel also features innovative cast technology with a centrifugal brake, which, while not as crucial for trolling, highlights the reel’s overall high performance. The recessed reel foot helps the reel keep a low profile on the rod, making it easy to palm and comfortable to use for extended periods. The oversized non-slip rubber grips provide a secure hold, and the clicker alarm is a great feature for detecting strikes while trolling. The Chaos XS is a versatile reel that can handle a variety of fishing applications, from saltwater inshore to freshwater trolling. Its robust construction and high-performance components make it a fantastic choice for anglers who want a powerful, smooth, and durable reel that is built to last.
- Pros: Extremely strong and lightweight aluminum frame, powerful 22 lbs of carbon drag, super smooth 6+1 bearing system, and a high-quality brass main gear
- Cons: Does not have a line counter, and the baitcasting style may not be for every troller
How to Choose the Best Trolling Reels for Trout
For any angler serious about trolling for trout, the reel is a critical part of the setup. It’s more than just a place to hold your line; a good trolling reel must handle the constant drag of lures and the explosive runs of a hooked trout. The ideal reel provides a smooth, reliable drag system, a comfortable handle for long hours on the water, and the durability to withstand the rigors of frequent use. Whether you’re targeting brook trout in a mountain lake or a large lake trout in a deep reservoir, the right reel will give you the control and confidence you need to land your fish.
The Unique Role of a Trolling Reel
A trolling reel isn’t a one-size-fits-all piece of equipment. Unlike a casting reel, which is designed for casting and retrieving, a trolling reel’s primary job is to hold a significant amount of line and provide a consistent, powerful drag. It must be able to withstand the constant pressure of a lure or downrigger and the sudden force of a trout strike. The key to a great trolling reel is its ability to perform these tasks flawlessly, allowing you to focus on the presentation and the fight without worrying about gear failure. Choosing the right reel for the job is an investment in your success on the water.
Key Features of a Trout Trolling Reel
When you’re ready to select a trolling reel for trout, you need to focus on a few key features. The right combination of these will ensure you have a reel that is both effective and durable.
Reel Type and Size
The type and size of the reel are the most important considerations. They will determine how the reel functions and what kind of line it can handle.
Reel Type: Conventional vs. Spinning
While you can troll with a spinning reel, a **conventional (or baitcasting) reel** is the go-to choice for most trout trolling setups. Conventional reels are built for power and line capacity. They have a more direct connection to the line, which is great for feeling subtle bites and for providing the powerful, consistent drag needed for trolling. Spinning reels are more prone to line twist under constant pressure and generally have smaller drag systems, making them less ideal for this specific technique.
Reel Size and Line Capacity
The size of your reel is directly tied to the amount of line it can hold. For trout trolling, a reel with a line capacity that can hold at least 200 yards of line is a great starting point. The reason is simple: you need enough line to handle a long run from a big trout and to accommodate the depths you’ll be fishing. A good general rule is to look for a conventional reel in the **15-to-20 size class** for most trout fishing. This size provides a good balance of line capacity, power, and a manageable size.
Drag System and Gear Ratio
The drag and gear ratio are the heart of a trolling reel’s performance. They will determine how you fight a fish and how efficiently you can retrieve your line.
Drag System
A **smooth and consistent drag system** is arguably the most critical feature of a trolling reel. When a trout strikes, it often takes off on a powerful run. A jerky or inconsistent drag will put too much pressure on the line, leading to a break-off, or on the hook, causing it to tear out of the fish’s mouth. Look for a reel with a high-quality, multi-washer drag system made of materials like carbon fiber or sealed graphite. Make sure the drag is easy to adjust and can be smoothly set to a consistent pressure, even under load.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns with one full rotation of the handle. For trolling, a **low to medium gear ratio** is generally preferred. A gear ratio in the **4.0:1 to 5.0:1 range** is ideal. A lower ratio provides more torque, or cranking power, which is essential for pulling heavy lures and fighting a powerful fish. A high gear ratio, which is common on bass reels, is designed for fast retrieves and is not well-suited for the constant pressure of trolling. A low gear ratio reel does the heavy lifting for you, making your time on the water more comfortable and less fatiguing.
Construction and Components
The materials and components a reel is made from will determine its durability and longevity. For a trolling reel, you need a robust construction that can handle the elements and the stress of heavy use.
Frame and Spool Material
- Graphite: This is a popular material for budget-friendly reels. It’s lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it a good choice for freshwater use. However, graphite frames can flex under heavy load, which can lead to gear misalignment over time.
- Aluminum: A more robust choice, an aluminum frame provides a rigid platform for the internal gears, ensuring smooth operation under heavy pressure. An aluminum frame is heavier than graphite but is a great investment for durability.
- Spool: An aluminum spool is standard and preferred for its strength and light weight, which can help with a smoother drag.
Bearings and Handle
The number and quality of bearings will affect the smoothness of the reel. For a good trolling reel, look for at least **3 to 5 corrosion-resistant bearings**. More bearings don’t always mean a better reel; the quality is more important than the quantity. The handle should be comfortable and provide good leverage. A single power handle or a large double handle is great for cranking in line and fighting a fish with ease. Look for a handle with a secure, comfortable grip made of materials like EVA foam or rubber.
Choosing the Best Reel for Your Needs
When you’re ready to make a purchase, consider the type of trout you’ll be targeting and the trolling methods you’ll use. For most trout trolling, a **size 15 or 20 conventional reel with a reliable carbon drag system and a low gear ratio (4.5:1 or so)** is a fantastic starting point. This type of reel will give you the line capacity, power, and smooth drag you need to handle everything from a small spoon to a dodger-and-fly combo. By focusing on these core features, you can find a high-quality, durable reel that will serve you well on the water and help you land more trout for many seasons to come. What kind of trout are you hoping to catch?
