Pike fishing comes in different shapes and forms with a fair few different methods to fish for these toothy predators.
Balancing your reel to your method is key for consistent success. In this article I detail the best pike fishing reels we have tested with all styles and budgets covered.
Quick Summary
In a rush? If so then here are the best Pike fishing reels I have reviewed and featured in this guide. Select the type of reel to see the top options.
Deadbait / Baitrunner Reels
Best Overall: Shimano Baitrunner XTB CI4+ LC Reel
Combining advanced CI4+ construction with Shimano’s legendary Baitrunner system, this premium reel delivers exceptional performance for serious specimen anglers.
What makes this a great option
- Light yet still super powerful
- Advanced casting technology make it a dream to cast
- HAGANE gear system delivers incredible smoothness
More Affordable: Shimano DL 6000 RB
The DL 6000 RB is an extremely popular reel amongst carp and pike anglers. Being well balanced, user friendly and with an affordable price-point, its easy to see why.
What makes this a great option
- Beautifully smooth on the retrieve
- Great features that help with good line lay and reducing line twist
- Excellent value for money
Spinning Reels
Best Overall: Savage Fazor Spinning Reel
The Savage Gear Fazor spinning reel combines lightweight durability with smooth performance, offering a range of sizes suitable for both freshwater predator and inshore fishing applications.
What makes this a great option
- Precision-engineered gearing system for exceptionally smooth operation
- Lightweight yet durable carbon-reinforced composite construction
- Advanced carbon fibre drag system for precise fish-fighting control
Budget Option: Daiwa 23 Ninja LT Reel
The Daiwa 23 Ninja LT offers advanced features like Airdrive design and Tough Digigear in a lightweight package that’s ideal for predator, coarse and sea anglers alike.
What makes this a great option
- Advanced Airdrive design significantly reduces weight while maintaining durability
- Versatile size range making the model a perfect all-rounder
- Tough Digigear and ATD Type-L drag provide reliable performance at an accessible price
Float / Dropshot Reels
Best Overall: Fox Rage TR Reel
The Fox Rage TR Reel series combines premium magnesium construction with advanced features to deliver exceptional performance for serious predator anglers looking for a dropshot or float fishing reel.
What makes this a great option
- Premium magnesium body construction paired with carbon reinforcement for the perfect balance of strength and weight
- Sophisticated 10+1 ball bearing system delivering professional-grade smoothness for serious lure work
- Two perfectly sized options with optimised gear ratios for different lure fishing techniques
All Round Pike Reels
Best Overall: Shimano Stradic FM Reel
The Shimano Stradic FM series represents the pinnacle of pike reel engineering, combining cutting-edge Hagane technology with versatile water protection for both fresh and saltwater applications.
What makes this a great option
- Advanced Hagane Gear system and Micro Module II technology deliver exceptional smoothness and durability
- X-Protect system enables true versatility across fresh and saltwater environments
- Premium aluminium construction with sophisticated internals offering professional-grade performance
Budget Option: Daiwa 23 Ninja LT Reel
The Daiwa 23 Ninja LT offers advanced features like Airdrive design and Tough Digigear in a lightweight package that’s ideal for predator, coarse and sea anglers alike.
What makes this a great option
- Advanced Airdrive design significantly reduces weight while maintaining durability
- Versatile size range making the model a perfect all-rounder
- Tough Digigear and ATD Type-L drag provide reliable performance at an accessible price
Boat / Multiplier Reels
Best Overall: Daiwa 7HT Mag Multiplier Reel
The Daiwa 7HT Mag Multiplier Reel is a premium casting reel that showcases Japanese engineering at its finest, featuring the innovative Magnofuge control system that automatically adjusts magnetic braking during your cast for optimal distance and control.
What makes this a great option
- Intelligent Magnofuge system provides automatic, real-time brake adjustment during casting
- Robust construction with 5 corrosion-resistant bearings and a one-piece duraluminium frame
- Exceptional smooth casting performance, particularly suited for clean beach and distance fishing
Best Budget: Wychwood Agitator S1 Baitcasting Reel
At just 187 grams, the Agitator S1 brings an impressive balance of performance and lightness to the predator fishing scene, packing features you’d expect from a much pricier reel.
What makes this a great option
- Light as a feather but built tough with aircraft-grade components
- Handles everything from small lures to heavy deadbaits (10-80g range)
- Ready for any environment with full saltwater protection
Fly Fishing Reels For Pike
Best Overall: Greys Fly Tital Reel
Combining rugged bar stock construction with a powerful sealed carbon disc drag system, the Greys Tital in its larger sizes (7/8 and 9/10) proves itself a serious contender for hard-fighting predators like pike, where reliable stopping power is essential.
What makes this a great option
- Sealed carbon drag system handles the brutal runs of big pike
- Large arbor design perfect for quick line retrieval when following predatory runs
- Full-frame cage prevents fly lines from jamming between spool and frame
Best Budget: Greys Fly Cruise Reel
The Greys Cruise brings reliable fly fishing performance to an accessible price point, featuring a robust die-cast construction and smooth Rulon disc drag system that punches well above its weight class.
What makes this a great option
- Excellent value for money without compromising on core performance
- Smooth Rulon disc drag system handles fish confidently
- Practical large arbor design reduces line memory issues
The Best Pike Reels
The following 10 reels are the highest rated in our reviews. All disciplines and budgets have been considered as well as their suitability to specifically fish for pike and predators.
You can check out how the reels have been tested and scored on our dedicated page here.
Best Overall Deadbait Reel For Pike
Shimano Baitrunner XTB CI4+ LC Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.0
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 9.0
Value For Money - 8.0
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Combining advanced CI4+ construction with Shimano’s legendary Baitrunner system, this premium big pit-style reel delivers exceptional performance for serious carp and specimen anglers.
At its core, the lightweight CI4+ body houses the robust HAGANE gear system and X-SHIP technology, providing incredible cranking power without compromising on weight.
The Aero Wrap II system, paired with the slow oscillation speed, ensures perfect line lay and outstanding casting performance, while the waterproof drag and reliable Baitrunner facility offer precise control when playing larger fish.
For anglers seeking a high-end long-range reel that combines cutting-edge technology with proven reliability, the Baitrunner CI4+ XTB-LC represents Shimano’s commitment to excellence, complete with a spare spool and line reducers for added versatility.
Pros
- Lightweight and exceptionally well balanced
- Superb line lay through Aero Wrap II and slow oscillation
- The X-Protect system increases the reels longevity and premium performance
- X-SHIP gearing helps make the reel super smooth
Cons
- Its pricey
A Great Affordable Reel For Deadbait Fishing
Shimano Baitrunner DL 6000
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Cast & Retrieve - 8.0
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Shimano DL Baitrunner combines proven reliability with features typically found in higher-priced reels, making it a favourite among carp, barbel and pike anglers.
Its lightweight graphite body houses premium components including Varispeed oscillation and AR-C line management, delivering smooth operation and superior line lay for improved casting efficiency.
The smooth Baitrunner system and versatile drag control, paired with cold-forged aluminium handle options and four bearings, provide exceptional performance for its price point.
Offering impressive value for money and packed with Shimano’s trusted technology, it’s clear why the DL has earned its reputation as one of the most popular mid-range baitrunner reels available.
Pros
- Beautifully smooth Baitrunner and rear drag system
- Super Stopper II Technology
- Varispeed oscillation for good line lay
- Dyna-balance and power roller features that help minimise line twist
- Superb value for money
Cons
- One or two ball bearings short compared to the more premium reels
Best Overall Spinning Reel For Pike
Savage Fazor Spinning Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 8.0
Drag / Clutch - 8.0
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Savage Gear Fazor represents a significant achievement in spinning reel design, successfully balancing lightweight construction with professional-grade durability.
Its precision-cut gearing and sealed bearing system deliver remarkably smooth operation, whilst the carbon fibre drag system provides the fine control needed for handling those power torpedo-like runs.
The range of sizes and gear ratios makes the differing models versatile enough to handle everything from small stream fishing to large reservoir work.
The price point is certainly amicable for a premium quality reel and the Fazor’s combination of advanced features and reliable performance makes it a worthy investment for serious anglers looking for something that will perform consistently in demanding conditions.
Pros
- Exceptionally smooth operation thanks to precision-cut gearing and 8-bearing system
- Lightweight yet incredibly durable carbon-reinforced composite construction
- Superior drag system with precise adjustment and excellent stopping power
- Thoughtfully designed size-specific handles for optimal control
Cons
- The 5000 size is slightly heavier than than some other reels of this size
Top Dropshot Reel For Pike
Fox Rage TR Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.5
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The Fox Rage TR Reel series represents a significant achievement in modern lure fishing equipment, offering premium construction and thoughtful design features throughout.
With its magnesium alloy body and carbon reinforcements, these reels deliver exceptional durability while maintaining an impressively lightweight profile suited to long dropshot fishing sessions.
The comprehensive bearing system and precision-engineered gearing provide the kind of smoothness typically found only in much more expensive reels, while practical features like the rubber grip band for direct braid attachment show real understanding of predator anglers’ needs.
Available in two perfectly sized options with technique-specific gear ratios, these reels offer light lure anglers everything needed for successful predator fishing.
Pros
- Exceptional smoothness thanks to the comprehensive 10+1 ball bearing system
- Premium construction with magnesium body and carbon reinforcement for outstanding durability
- Versatile size options with tailored gear ratios for different fishing styles
- Direct braid-ready spool with effective rubber grip band system
Cons
- The addition of cork on the handle may not be every anglers cup of tea
Best All-Round Pike Reel
Shimano Stradic FM Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
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The Shimano Stradic FM series showcases the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence, combining premium materials with sophisticated technology throughout.
The integration of Hagane construction with advanced features like X-Ship and Micro Module II delivers exceptional smoothness and durability that serious anglers demand.
The addition of X-Protect technology makes these reels genuinely versatile not only across most predator fishing styles but also within saltwater environments, while thoughtful features like Aero Wrap II ensure optimal performance in differing conditions.
Available in three carefully considered sizes, the Stradic FM series offers anglers a premium reel that excels across multiple fishing scenarios, from lightweight lure work to pursuing monster predators in both freshwater and saltwater situations.
Pros
- Exceptional engineering with Hagane technology providing outstanding durability
- Versatile X-Protect system allowing true fresh and saltwater compatibility
- Remarkably smooth operation thanks to Micro Module II gearing
- Perfect line lay and casting performance with Aero Wrap II system
Cons
- Above average in price although you do get your money's worth
A Great Budget All-Round Pike Reel
Daiwa 23 Ninja LT Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.0
Value For Money - 9.0
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The Daiwa 23 Ninja LT demonstrates how modern engineering can create a lightweight yet durable fishing reel.
Its Airdrive design and DS4 body construction reduce weight in all the right places, while the Tough Digigear system ensures reliable power when you need it.
The ATD Type-L drag system handles everything from careful float fishing to hard-fighting predators with consistent smoothness.
Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced angler, this reel offers serious capability across multiple fishing styles without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Outstanding value-to-performance ratio, especially for entry-level anglers
- Versatile performance across multiple fishing techniques from float fishing to spinning
- Robust drag system
- Lightweight construction that still maintains strength and robustness
Cons
- The latest version no longer features a metal line clip and button-fold handle which is disappointing
Best Multiplier Reel For Pike Fishing
Daiwa 7HT Mag Multiplier Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.0
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
Compare Prices
The Daiwa 7HT Mag Multiplier Reel is the ultimate predator fishing companion, combining cutting-edge Magnofuge technology with unmatched precision to help you reach those distant spots where monster pike patrol.
Every cast is a masterclass in control, thanks to the sophisticated magnetic braking system that allows you to adapt to any situation, whether you’re targeting specimen pike with deadbaits at range or working heavy livebaits in challenging conditions.
Built with premium components including five corrosion-resistant bearings and a one-piece duraluminium frame, this reel delivers the smooth performance and reliable stopping power needed for landing hard-fighting predators.
While it represents a serious investment, the 7HT Mag’s exceptional build quality, smooth operation, and ability to handle the demands of big pike and predator fishing make it a worthwhile choice for anglers who refuse to compromise on their equipment.
Pros
- Exceptional casting distance and control thanks to the intelligent Magnofuge system
- Smooth operation with 6 bearings (5 CRBB) and premium gear construction
- Versatile magnetic control settings suit various conditions and casting styles
- Built to last with corrosion-resistant components and quality materials
Cons
- Standard handle size may be too small for some anglers, however this can be changed to a power handle if needed
A Good Budget Multiplier Reel For Pike Fishing
Wychwood Agitator S1 Baitcasting Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 7.5
Value For Money - 9.0
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Looking for a baitcaster that won’t break the bank but still delivers the goods? The Agitator S1 hits that sweet spot between performance and price.
From perch to pike, this reel has the versatility to handle it all, with enough finesse for precise lure work and enough backbone for bigger predators.
The saltwater-ready construction and quality components show Wychwood’s commitment to durability, while the lightweight design keeps fatigue at bay during those long sessions.
For anglers wanting serious performance without a serious price tag, this reel deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Pros
- Exceptional value for the features you're getting
- Featherweight design that is easy to handle
- Versatile enough for most predator fishing situations
- Built to handle both fresh and saltwater
Cons
- Drag might not satisfy those targeting truly monster fish
Best Fly Fishing Reel For Pike
Greys Fly Tital Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.0
Cast & Retrieve - 8.5
Drag / Clutch - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
Compare Prices
When you’re launching large pike flies and battling aggressive predators, the Greys Tital proves itself a reliable warrior in the heat of battle.
The 7/8 and 9/10 versions pack enough punch to stop even double-figure pike in their tracks, while the sealed drag system keeps performing no matter how many times your fly gets smashed by toothy critters.
The quality of construction and thoughtful features like the full-frame cage design show that Greys understands what predator fly anglers need from their gear.
For the serious pike fly angler looking for a reel that can handle the rough and tumble of predator fishing, the Tital delivers performance that matches its premium positioning.
Pros
- Outstanding build quality from premium materials
- Versatile range covers all fishing scenarios
- Intelligent size-specific drag systems
- Smooth and a joy to use
Cons
- Premium price point reflects the quality construction
A Great Budget Pike Fly Fishing Reel
Greys Fly Cruise Reel
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 7.5
Value For Money - 9.0
Compare Prices
The Greys Cruise proves that entry-level doesn’t mean basic.
With its modern large arbor design and reliable Rulon drag system, it offers genuine performance credentials at a price point that won’t scare newcomers to the sport.
While the 1.1kg maximum drag might not stop a runaway monster, it’s more than capable of handling the typical, grayling and jack pike encounters most anglers face.
For those entering the world of fly fishing or experienced anglers seeking a dependable backup reel, the Cruise demonstrates that quality fly fishing gear doesn’t always need a premium price tag.
Pros
- Outstanding value for money
- Smooth, reliable drag performance
- Durable construction for everyday use
- Large arbor benefits at an entry-level price
Cons
- Limited drag power at 1.1kg maximum
What Features to Look for in a Top Pike Fishing Reel
When choosing a pike fishing reel, the most important consideration is matching the reel type to your preferred fishing method, as different styles of pike fishing demand specific features and capabilities from your reel.
There are some common traits however that each decent reel possesses that in our opinion make them stand out from some of the more inferior reels on the market.
Here’s what to look out for.
Build Quality & Materials Used
The build quality and materials used in a pike fishing reel are critical factors, as these reels need to withstand not only the powerful strikes and fights from large predators but also the constant stress of working heavy lures or deadbaits.
Pike reels face unique challenges, from the impact of casting weighty lures to the sudden lunges of powerful fish, making the choice of construction materials particularly important.
High-end pike reels typically feature aluminium frames and side plates for maximum rigidity and strength, combined with precision-engineered brass or stainless steel gearing systems that maintain smoothness under heavy loads.
While more affordable reels might use reinforced composite bodies, the key components like the main shaft, drive gear, and bearing systems should still be metal-based to ensure reliability when that trophy predator takes your bait.
Weight
The weight of a pike reel varies significantly depending on your chosen fishing method, with each type carefully balanced for its specific purpose.
For active methods like spinning and lure fishing, lighter reels in the 200-340g range help reduce fatigue through continued handling, while specialist deadbait baitrunner reels typically weigh between 350-570g to accommodate their additional mechanisms and robust construction.
Understanding these weight differences is good to know, a reel that’s perfect for static deadbait fishing might be too heavy for a day’s lure fishing, while an ultralight dropshot reel might feel unbalanced when working larger deadbaits.
Here’s a table that shows the different reel types and the typical weight of a decent option.
| Type of Reel | Weight Range |
|---|---|
| Baitrunner/Freespool Reels | 350-570g (10-20oz) |
| Spinning Reels | 200-340g (7-12oz) |
| Dropshot Reels | 170-250g (6-9oz) |
| Multiplier/Baitcasting Reels | 200-280g (7-10oz) |
| Fly Fishing Reels | 170-230g (6-8oz) |
Drag System
The drag system on a pike reel is one of its most critical components, as it needs to handle both the explosive initial runs when a pike strikes and the powerful lunges during the fight.
Different styles of pike reels feature distinct drag systems, each engineered for specific fishing methods and situations.
Front drag systems, commonly found on spinning reels, utilise multiple large drag washers to provide smooth, consistent pressure even when a big pike makes sudden directional changes or powerful runs.
Multiplier reels typically feature star drag systems, positioned next to the reel handle, which offer precise control and excellent heat dissipation.
These systems are particularly effective when trolling for pike, where you need to maintain consistent pressure while covering water with large lures and dealing with powerful strikes at speed.
Baitrunner reels add another dimension with their dual-drag system, a primary drag for fighting fish and a secondary system for the free-spool function, which allows pike to ‘run’ once they have taken your bait.
Fly reels for pike fishing utilise either a click-and-pawl system or a disc drag mechanism, with modern disc drags being preferred for their ability to handle the powerful runs of larger pike.
The best pike fly reel drag systems are fully sealed to prevent water ingress and maintain smooth performance even in harsh conditions.
Whichever type you choose, it’s important to ensure the drag operates smoothly throughout its range and can be adjusted while playing a fish easily and efficiently.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of a pike fishing reel indicates how many times the spool rotates with each complete turn of the handle, and the ideal ratio varies significantly depending on your fishing method.
For spinning/dropshot reels targeting pike, higher gear ratios of 6.0:1 to 7.1:1 are often preferred as they allow for faster retrieval of lures and the ability to quickly take up slack line when a pike strikes.
Multiplier reels for pike fishing typically come with ratios between 5.4:1 and 7.1:1, providing a good balance between power and speed for both trolling and casting heavy lures.
Baitrunner reels used for deadbaiting generally feature ratios between 4.6:1 to 5.2:1, offering the perfect balance of power and control when using deadbaits and handling powerful pike runs.
Fly reels for pike operate on a 1:1 ratio, meaning one turn of the handle equals one turn of the spool. This direct drive system provides excellent control during the fight and allows the angler to adapt the retrieval speed naturally.
| Reel Type | Typical Gear Ratio |
|---|---|
| Spinning/Dropshot Reels | 6.0:1 - 7.1:1 |
| Multiplier Reels | 5.4:1 - 7.1:1 |
| Baitrunner Reels | 4.6:1 - 5.2:1 |
| Fly Reels | 1:1 |
Number Of Bearings
Ball bearings are crucial components in pike fishing reels, with different types and quantities serving specific purposes depending on the style of reel and its intended use.
In spinning reels for pike fishing, you’ll typically find between 5 and 10 bearings, with quality being just as important as quantity.
These bearings are strategically placed in high-stress areas like the handle, rotor, and line roller to ensure smooth operation when casting heavy lures or fighting powerful fish.
Baitrunner reels often feature additional bearings to support their dual-drag mechanisms, typically containing 6 to 10 bearings in total.
Many premium models use shielded or sealed stainless steel bearings which help protect against water ingress that could corrode and affect performance.
Multiplier reels generally operate with fewer bearings, usually 4 to 6, but these are typically higher-grade bearings designed to handle the lateral pressure of casting heavy lures.
The inclusion of an instant anti-reverse bearing is particularly important in pike reels, as it prevents handle back-play during those crucial moments when a pike makes a powerful run.
While some budget reels might use a mechanical anti-reverse system, a dedicated bearing provides more reliable performance.
It’s worth noting that fly reels for pike tend to use fewer bearings, typically 2 to 3, as their simpler direct-drive design focuses more on drag system quality than bearing count.
Here’s a table to show the number of bearings present in the better pike reels.
| Reel Type | Typical Bearing Count |
|---|---|
| Spinning/Dropshot Reels | 5-10 + Anti-reverse |
| Baitrunner Reels | 6-10 + Anti-reverse |
| Multiplier Reels | 4-6 + Anti-reverse |
| Fly Reels | 2-3 + Disc Drag |
Line Lay Technology
Line lay technology is particularly important in pike fishing reels as it needs to handle everything from lightweight braided lines for lure fishing to heavier monofilament for deadbaiting.
Advanced line lay systems become even more important when you consider that pike fishing often involves casting large lures or deadbaits that can put significant stress on your line during both casting and retrieval.
Modern spinning and baitrunner reels designed for pike fishing typically feature sophisticated oscillation systems, with many incorporating slow oscillation technology that ensures perfectly even line distribution.
This is particularly useful; when using braided lines, which can dig into themselves if not laid properly, potentially causing costly tangles or line failures at crucial moments. The best pike reels often feature worm gear oscillation systems, providing the most precise line lay possible.
Multiplier reels for pike fishing use a different approach, with level-wind systems that guide the line back and forth across the spool during retrieval.
Quality multipliers feature adjustable line guides to accommodate different line diameters, crucial when switching between mono and braid for different pike fishing techniques.
Fly reels, while simpler in design, often incorporate large arbors and wider spools specifically to help maintain proper line lay with the heavier lines needed for pike fishing.
Additional Considerations When Choosing a Pike Reel
In addition to the physical features of a pike fishing reel, there are a few other considerations that will influence your choice.
The Method To Be Adopted
Pike fishing encompasses various methods, each requiring specific reel characteristics to be effective. For deadbait fishing, a reliable baitrunner reel with a smooth freespool system is essential, as this allows pike to run with the bait without resistance.
When lure fishing, a high-quality spinning reel with smooth drag and quick retrieve rate will give you better control over your lures and better hook-up rates.
For those targeting pike with fly fishing tactics, when pike often feed near the surface, a large-arbor fly reel with a robust disc drag system is crucial.
Trolling enthusiasts will benefit most from a multiplier reel that can handle the constant pressure and repeated casting of heavy lures, while those focusing on finesse techniques like dropshotting will want a lighter spinning reel with superior line lay.
The Size Of The Water
The size of water you fish should directly influence your reel choice.
Larger waters often require bigger reels (4000-5000 size) for distance casting and working deeper areas, while smaller intimate venues are better suited to compact reels (2500-3500 size) that offer better balance and control for precise presentation.
The Rod You Are Using
Your choice of pike rod should directly influence your reel selection to achieve the perfect balance.
Lighter lure rods around 7-9ft pair best with 2500-4000 size spinning reels, while longer deadbait rods of 11-12ft require larger 5000-size reels to maintain proper balance.
Getting this match right not only improves casting accuracy but will also enhance the whole fish playing experience.
FAQs
Here are some of the common questions we get asked about pike fishing reels at eTackle.
For spinning/lure fishing, a 3000-4000 size reel is ideal for most situations. For deadbaiting, a 5000-6000 size baitrunner offers the perfect balance of line capacity and control. However, the best size depends on your specific fishing method and venue type.
While not essential, a baitrunner reel is highly advantageous when deadbait fishing for pike as it allows the fish to run with the bait without feeling resistance. For lure fishing or other methods, a standard spinning reel is perfectly suitable.
While more bearings can contribute to smoother operation, the quality of the bearings is more important than the quantity. A reel with 5-6 high-quality bearings will often perform better than one with 12 lower-quality bearings.
While most modern pike reels can handle braid, those with superior line lay systems and a braid-ready spool will perform much better. The spool should be designed to prevent the braid from slipping and provide even line lay to avoid dig-in issues.
Regular maintenance is crucial for pike reels as they’re often used in harsh conditions. A basic clean after each session and a thorough service at least once per season (or more if regularly used in saltwater) will significantly extend your reel’s life and maintain its performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a pike reel requires careful consideration of your fishing methods, venues, and specific requirements.
From line lay systems to drag performance, build quality to gear ratios, each feature plays an important role in both the effectiveness and durability of your reel.
The key is finding a reel that offers reliable performance in the conditions you fish, with the features that match your chosen methods.
Whether you opt for a premium or a budget model, understanding these core features will help you make an informed choice.
Thanks for reading.
Tight Lines!