Best Carp Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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For those who enjoy the sport of carp fishing, the right equipment is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience. Carp fishing reels are an important component of any angler's fishing gear. These reels are designed to be durable and reliable, with the ability to handle the weight and fight of a large carp. With a range of options available, from beginner-level to advanced, there is a carp fishing reel to suit every angler's needs. These reels are an investment in the sport, providing the necessary tools to catch the big one and make memories that will last a lifetime.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mitchell MX1 FS 5500 Fishing Reel with Line Cover #TOP 1
Mitchell MX1 FS 5500 Fishing Reel with Line
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NGT 2x Carp Fishing Free Runner Reel Cover #TOP 2
NGT 2x Carp Fishing Free Runner Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DNA Leisure 2 x NGT Carp Coarse Reels Cover #TOP 3
DNA Leisure 2 x NGT Carp Coarse Reels
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Carp Fishing Reels

Mitchell MX1 FS 5500 Fishing Reel with Line

Mitchell
1544512
Black/White
5500
Mitchell MX1 FS 5500 Fishing Reel with Line Cover
Mitchell MX1 FS 5500 Allround Fishing Reel with Line - Spinning Free Spool Freshwater Carp Fishing Reels and Deadbait Pike & Zander Anglers - Robust and lightweight Black Aluminium - 2+1 Bearings

The Mitchell MX1 Fishing Reel is a reliable choice for anglers, featuring a multi-disk drag system that ensures smooth line take when battling fish. With 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings, you will enjoy a buttery smooth rotation. The robust design includes a lightweight ABS graphite body and a durable aluminium spool, enhancing your fishing experience. Additionally, the free spool system allows you to control the line easily without opening the bail, making it perfect for various fishing scenarios, including carp and pike.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Lightweight design
Versatile for multiple species
Easy line management
Robust construction
#TOP 2

NGT 2x Carp Fishing Free Runner Reel

NGT
Carp
NGT 2x Carp Fishing Free Runner Reel Cover
2x Carp Fishing Max 60 2BB Carp Bait Free Runner Reel With 10lb Line New

The NGT Carp Runner Reel is designed with a 30 stop point system, which allows you to set precise bait positions, enhancing your fishing experience. Its 5.21 gear ratio ensures smooth operation, making it easier for you to reel in your catch. The SCURVE oscillation system contributes to better line management, reducing tangles and improving casting distance. Additionally, each reel is spooled with a robust 10lb line, giving you confidence in its durability while you're out on the water.

What We Like
Easy bait positioning
Smooth reeling action
Better line management
Durable 10lb line included
#TOP 3

DNA Leisure 2 x NGT Carp Coarse Reels

Black
DNA Leisure 2 x NGT Carp Coarse Reels Cover
DNA Leisure 2 x NGT Carp Coarse CKR50 Reels with 1 Ball Bearing 1BB with Rear Drag Anti-Twist Big Line Roller

The DNA Leisure Carp Reels offer an excellent fishing experience with their high-quality rear drag system and smooth 1 ball bearing action. The sharp-stop anti-reverse feature ensures that you maintain control during your fishing adventures, while the long cast spool allows for greater casting distance. You can easily switch between left and right-hand use with the interchangeable handle, making these reels versatile for all anglers. With a gear ratio of 5.2:1 and pre-spooled with 8lb line, these reels are designed to enhance your fishing efficiency.

What We Like
Smooth 1 ball bearing action
Long cast spool
Interchangeable handle
Sharp-stop anti-reverse
Pre-spooled with 8lb line

Wychwood Carp Riot Big Pit 65 Reel

C0042
Gunmetal
Wychwood Carp Riot Big Pit 65 Reel Cover
Wychwood - Carp Riot Big Pit 65 Reel, Gunmetal

The Wychwood Carp Riot Reel is designed for serious anglers. It features a 5+1 bearing system, providing you with smooth operation and efficiency during your fishing trips. The huge cranking power ensures that you can reel in even the largest catches with ease. The multi-disc drag system allows for precise control over your line tension, making it easier to manage challenging fish. Additionally, the anti-twist line roller helps prevent line tangles, giving you a hassle-free experience while fishing.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Powerful cranking
Precise drag control
Prevents line tangles
#TOP 5

NGT Camo40 Carp Free Runner Fishing Reel Set

NGT
Black
NGT Camo40 Carp Free Runner Fishing Reel Set Cover
2 x NGT Camo40 Carp Free Runner 3BB Fishing Reel with 12lb Line + Spare Spool + Cases

The NGT Camo40 Reel Set includes two high-quality fishing reels designed with a stylish camo pattern. Each reel comes with a 12lb line, making it ideal for carp fishing. You will also receive spare spools, ensuring you are prepared for any fishing situation. Additionally, the included reel cases provide protection and easy transport, allowing you to keep your gear in top condition. This set combines functionality with convenience, making it a valuable addition to your fishing equipment.

What We Like
Stylish camo design
Includes spare spools
Comes with protective cases
Ideal for carp fishing

Shakespeare Beta FS Freespool Fishing Reel for Freshwater

1275130
Black
Shakespeare Beta FS Freespool Fishing Reel for Freshwater Cover
Shakespeare Beta FS Freespool Fishing Reel - Freshwater Ledger Fishing for Carp, Bream, Tench, Barbel

The Shakespeare Beta FS Reel is designed for freshwater fishing, making it an excellent choice for targeting species like carp, bream, tench, and barbel. With a generous line capacity of 230m and a thickness of 0.36mm, you can easily handle long casts and heavy catches. The lightweight graphite body and handle ensure that you can fish for extended periods without fatigue. Additionally, the gear ratio of 5.1:1 allows for smooth retrieval, giving you better control over your catch.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Generous line capacity
Smooth retrieval
Suitable for various freshwater fish

Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Fishing Reel

Mitchell
1446189
Black
5500| 5.1:1
Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Fishing Reel Cover
Mitchell Avocet Black Edition Reel , Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing, Unisex, Black, 5500| 5.1:1

The Mitchell Avocet Reel offers a reliable and smooth fishing experience. Its multi-disk drag system allows you to handle up to 8kg of drag power effortlessly, ensuring a seamless line take while you fight the fish. With 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings, the reel rotates smoothly, providing you with a hassle-free operation. The high-performance design features a lightweight ABS graphite body, making it robust yet easy to manage. Additionally, the free spool system lets you engage the line with minimal resistance, perfect for various fishing techniques.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Lightweight and durable
Versatile for different fish species
Easy free spool engagement
Pre-spooled with quality line

Lineaeffe Free Carp 60 Baitrunner Reel

FLIN-RL-FREECARP-60
Black
200 m
Lineaeffe Free Carp 60 Baitrunner Reel Cover
Lineaeffe Fishing Reel Free Carp 60 Baitrunner Carp Fishing Feeder

The Lineaeffe Carp Reel is designed for avid fishermen seeking reliability. With safe shipping practices, your product arrives in excellent condition, ready for use. The high-quality brand ensures you receive a durable fishing reel that can withstand the rigours of carp fishing. Additionally, this reel features robust packaging, providing peace of mind during transit. You can trust that your equipment will perform well, making your fishing experience enjoyable and efficient.

What We Like
High-quality brand assurance
Reliable shipping methods
Durable and robust design
Ready for immediate use
#TOP 9

Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Drag

BDM-6000
BDM-6000
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Drag Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel,5+1 Shielded Stainless Steel BB-Carbon Fiber Drag Carp Reels, for Saltwater or Freshwater Spinning Reels, Fishing Reels-6000

The Sougayilang Carp Reel is expertly designed for carp fishing, featuring a front and rear drag system that provides reliable control and a drag power of up to 28LB. The smooth ceramic line guide reduces line abrasion, enhancing durability and ensuring a seamless casting experience. With 10+1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings, this reel operates quickly and smoothly, allowing for a fast retrieve. Its corrosion-free construction ensures longevity, making it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

What We Like
Designed for carp fishing
Smooth casting experience
Corrosion-resistant materials
Multiple sizes available
#TOP 10

Daiwa Black Widow 25A Carp Fishing Reel

BWC25A
Black,The
Daiwa Black Widow 25A Carp Fishing Reel Cover
Daiwa Black Widow 25A Carp Fishing Reel - BW25A

The Daiwa BW25A Reel is designed to enhance your carp fishing experience. With an abbreviated drag range, you can quickly access the free spool, allowing for more efficient casting. The line-friendly line clip ensures your line stays secure and tangle-free. Its high winding power means you can retrieve your catch with ease. Additionally, the gear ratio of 4.6:1 provides a good balance between speed and torque, making it suitable for various fishing conditions.

What We Like
Quick access to free spool
Secure line management
High winding efficiency
Balanced gear ratio
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best reel for carp fishing?

Here is our pick of the best carp fishing reels for distance casting and hitting those long range spots!. Shimano Power Aero 14000 XTB.Daiwa Tournament S 6000T.Shimano Big Baitrunner XTB Longcast.Daiwa Emblem 45SCW QD Reels.Shimano Ultegra 14000 XTD Reels.Penn Affinity II 8000 Reels.Avid ACR 12000 Reel.

2. What is a baitrunner reel?

The term baitrunner owes its origins to Shimano, however more recently 'baitrunner' has become generally used to describe reels with a freespool function. ... The purpose of a baitrunner (or freespool) fishing reel is to provide another drag system which can be manually engaged/disengaged with a simple switch.

3. What are Big pit reels?

What is a Big-pit reel? Derived from far casting sea fishing reels, big pits are designed for sending rigs far out into the lake. The bigger the spool means better line lay as the oscillation on the spool moving up and down is slower.

4. What is a SPOD reel?

Spod reels are for baiting up your swim with a rocket or spod full of your chosen mix and for putting marker floats out, also they have a quicker retrieval rate than normal carp reels and also bigger spools.

Editor's Notes

During our carp fishing reel research, we found 306 carp fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,622 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carp fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose carp fishing reels with an average price of £29.16.

The carp fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carp fishing reels, including Mitchell, NGT, DNA Leisure, Wychwood, SHAKESPEARE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 382 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.