Fishing Reels

Every reel here, from carp and coarse to sea and lure, is checked against the retailers we list so the best price is right in front of you. Filter by type, size or budget to find the one that fits your setup.

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The list covers every type of reel, from big-pit and baitrunner reels for carp through to coarse and match reels, sea reels and pike setups. You can sort the range from budget to premium and narrow it down with the filters.

Each reel shows the lowest in-stock price we can find alongside the number of shops compared. Where a reel has been reviewed, you can sort by review score to see how it rated.

66 products in this category
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How to Choose a Fishing Reel

The right reel depends mostly on the style of fishing and the size of fish being targeted. The main types are fixed spool reels for general use, big-pit and freespool reels for carp, and smaller reels built for coarse, match and float work.

Big-pit reels suit long-range carp fishing because the large spool holds plenty of line and helps with distance casting. Freespool, or baitrunner, reels let line pay off freely on a take, which is why they are popular for carp and specimen fishing where a rod sits in a rest.

Coarse and match reels are smaller and lighter, with a faster retrieve that suits float fishing and feeder work at closer range. Sea reels are built tougher to cope with salt water and heavier weights, and come as both fixed spool and multiplier designs.

Reel size and line capacity decide how much line a reel holds and how it balances with the rod. Gear ratio sets the retrieve speed, and the drag system controls how line is given to a running fish, which matters more as the target fish get bigger.

Other points worth weighing are the number of bearings, the spool material and any quick-drag or clutch features, since these affect how smooth and reliable the reel feels in use. A reel should match the rod it sits on so the whole setup balances well.

The guide linked below explains the reel types and the specs that separate them in more detail.

Fishing Reel Prices and Reviews

There are 66 fishing reels in this list, with 43 of them reviewed. For each one we track the price across the retailers we monitor and show the lowest in-stock figure so it is easy to see where to buy.

Our reviews look at the things that decide whether a reel is worth the money, such as drag performance, build quality, line lay and how smoothly it winds under load. To read more about picking between the reel types, see our best fishing reels guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fishing reel do I need?

It depends on the fishing. Big-pit and freespool reels suit carp and specimen work, smaller fixed spool reels suit coarse and match fishing, and tougher salt-resistant reels suit sea fishing.

What is the difference between a baitrunner and a normal reel?

A baitrunner, or freespool, reel has a second drag that lets line pay off freely when a fish takes the bait. A standard fixed spool reel keeps the spool locked to the main drag.

What size reel should I use?

Larger reels hold more line and suit long-range and big-fish work, while smaller reels are lighter and better for close-in float and feeder fishing. Match the reel size to the rod and the distance being fished.

What does gear ratio mean on a fishing reel?

Gear ratio is how many times the spool turns for one turn of the handle. A higher ratio gives a faster retrieve, while a lower ratio gives more cranking power for heavy work.

What is a good drag system on a reel?

A good drag releases line smoothly under pressure without jerking, which protects the line when a fish runs. Smoothness and the ability to adjust it precisely matter more as the target fish get bigger.

How many ball bearings should a fishing reel have?

More bearings usually mean a smoother wind, but build quality matters more than the headline number. A few well-made bearings can feel better than many cheap ones.

Can I use the same reel for coarse and sea fishing?

It is possible for light work, but salt water is hard on reels not built for it. A dedicated sea reel with corrosion resistance lasts far longer in those conditions.