Best Saltwater Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Saltwater fishing reels are essential tools for any angler who wants to catch big game fish in the ocean. They are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments and provide the power and durability needed to reel in large fish. These reels come in a variety of sizes and styles, from spinning reels to conventional reels, and are made by a range of manufacturers. They are popular among experienced anglers and beginners alike, providing a reliable and effective way to catch a range of saltwater species such as tuna, marlin, and sailfish.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Diwa 7000 Spinning Fishing Reel for All Waters Cover #TOP 2
Diwa 7000 Spinning Fishing Reel for All Waters
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ANGRYFISH High-Speed Anti-Corrosion Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
ANGRYFISH High-Speed Anti-Corrosion Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Saltwater Fishing Reels

PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel

PURIV4000
Black Silver
4000
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Pursuit IV Saltwater Sea Spinning Reel - Spin Fishing, Jig, Lure Reel for All-Round Use, Boat, Kayak, Shore

The PENN Pursuit IV Reel is designed for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Its powerful sealed HT-100 multi-disk carbon drag system ensures a smooth line take, allowing you to battle big saltwater predators with ease. The ultra-lightweight and corrosion-resistant graphite body, combined with a machined aluminium spool, enhances durability and performance in harsh conditions. With four quality sealed stainless steel ball bearings, this reel rotates smoothly, and the instant anti-reverse bearing guarantees quick hook-ups, making your fishing experience more efficient and enjoyable.

What We Like
Smooth drag system
Corrosion-resistant materials
Instant hook-ups
Lightweight design

Diwa 7000 Spinning Fishing Reel for All Waters

Diwa
Blue
Diwa 7000 Spinning Fishing Reel for All Waters Cover
Diwa Spinning Fishing Reels for Saltwater Freshwater 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 Spools Ultra Smooth Ultralight Powerful Trout Bass Carp Gear Stainless Ball Bearings Metal Body Ice Fishing Reels(7000)

The Diwa 7000 Reel features an aluminium alloy body, spool, and handle, ensuring exceptional durability for tackling both freshwater and saltwater fish. Its interchangeable handle design allows you to customise your fishing experience, while the ultra-thin streamline body reduces fatigue during long sessions. With 14 sealed stainless steel ball bearings, you can expect smooth and fluid cranking, making it easier to reel in your catch without hassle. The powerful drag system guarantees reliability, so you can focus on fishing with confidence.

What We Like
Durable aluminium construction
Smooth cranking with ball bearings
Lightweight and balanced design
Customisable handle position

ANGRYFISH High-Speed Anti-Corrosion Fishing Reel

FC-JC-3
Black
3000
ANGRYFISH High-Speed Anti-Corrosion Fishing Reel Cover
ANGRYFISH Anti-Corrosion Saltwater/Freshwater Sea Fishing Reel Carp Fishing 5.2:1 High Speed Metal Spool Powerful Spinning Fishing Reels 3000

The ANGRYFISH Fishing Reel is designed for both saltwater and freshwater anglers. With its 10+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings, you will enjoy an incredibly smooth operation that enhances your retrieving performance. Its multi-disc drag system offers up to 26 pounds of run-stopping drag power, making it easier to battle larger fish. Additionally, the hollow frame design keeps the reel lightweight yet high-performing, ensuring comfortable use during long fishing sessions. You will appreciate the durable aluminium alloy and engineering plastic construction, which provides wear resistance and longevity.

What We Like
Incredibly smooth operation
Powerful drag system
Lightweight and high performance
Durable materials used

Sougayilang R-Spider DL Fishing Reel

ZF-LIUYE2000 REEL
black green
2000
Sougayilang R-Spider DL Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Fishing reels Light Weight Saltwater Spinning Reel - 39.5 LB Carbon Fiber Drag,12+1 BB Ultra Smooth All Aluminum Inshore Reel for Saltwater or Freshwater-2000

The Sougayilang R-Spider Reel is designed for a smooth fishing experience, featuring a lightweight graphite body that allows for easy handling and quiet retrieves. Its high-powered design includes 12 ball bearings and an anti-reverse bearing, ensuring consistent performance and preventing line slippage. Durability is enhanced with a carbon-fibre rotor and hard PT gears, making it suitable for various fishing conditions. Additionally, the ergonomic EVA handle ensures comfort during long fishing sessions, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.

What We Like
Super smooth retrieval
Lightweight and easy to handle
Durable construction
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Versatile for various fishing
#TOP 5

Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Fiber

BDM-4000
BDM-4000
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel with Carbon Fiber Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel 5+1 Carbon Fiber BB Stainless Steel Armoured Carp Reels for Saltwater Freshwater Reels Fishing Reel-40

The Sougayilang Carp Reel is specifically designed for carp fishing, offering you an efficient front and rear drag system that provides up to 28LB of drag power. With a smooth ceramic line guide, this reel reduces line abrasion, ensuring a longer life for your fishing lines and a smoother casting experience. The corrosion-free design features a graphite construction and stainless steel shaft, making it durable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Additionally, the 10+1 ball bearings ensure rapid and smooth operation, enhancing your overall fishing experience.

What We Like
Smooth casting experience
Durable corrosion-free construction
High drag power
Interchangeable handles
Two sizes available
#TOP 6

Diwa Spinning Fishing Reel Series 1000-6000

Diwa
Golden
Diwa Spinning Fishing Reel Series 1000-6000 Cover
Diwa Spinning Fishing Reels for Saltwater Freshwater 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 Series Left/Right Interchangeable Trout Spinning Reel Carp Fishing Spool 10 Ball Bearings Light and Smooth

The Diwa Spinning Reel is designed for a smooth and durable fishing experience. With 10 ball bearings and a one-way anti-reverse bearing, you can enjoy ultra-smooth performance while reducing friction for long-lasting use. The lightweight hollow frame makes it comfortable for extended fishing sessions, whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out. Plus, its portable design, including a foldable handle, ensures that you can easily transport it wherever you go, allowing for convenient fishing trips.

What We Like
Smooth performance
Lightweight design
Portable and convenient
Durable materials

Sougayilang 10000 Surf Fishing Reel

Silver-10000
10000
Sougayilang 10000 Surf Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel 10000 Surf Fishing Reel, 10 + 1 Stainless Steel BB Ultra Smooth Powerful with CNC Aluminium Spool Spinning Fishing Reels for Saltwater Freshwater Fishing

The Sougayilang Surf Reel offers impressive power without bulk, making it perfect for battling tough fish. With its 11+1 rust-resistant ball bearings, you will enjoy a smooth casting and retrieving experience, essential for a successful fishing trip. The sealed side plate and rotor ensure waterproof performance, allowing you to use it confidently in various conditions. Additionally, the sturdy aluminium construction and comfortable handle provide durability and ease of use, giving you a reliable tool for your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Powerful yet lightweight
Smooth casting and retrieving
Waterproof and sealed design
Durable aluminium construction

Sougayilang 12000 Carp Fishing Reel

DYD12000
Sougayilang 12000 Carp Fishing Reel Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Reel, Ultra-powerful Smooth Spinning Reel 13+1BB Metal Body 9000/10000/12000 Surf Fishing Reels for Saltwater and Freshwater-12000

The Sougayilang Fishing Reel offers exceptional performance for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Its corrosion-resistant graphite body ensures durability, making it perfect for various fishing environments. With 13 ball bearings and a smooth drag system, you'll enjoy effortless retrieves when reeling in your catch. The innovative baitfeeding system allows fish to run freely, while you maintain control over the line, enhancing your fishing experience. This reel is designed to handle a wide range of fish species, giving you confidence no matter what you're targeting.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant design
Ultra-smooth retrieval
Innovative baitfeeding system
Suitable for various fish species
Comfortable handle for easy grip
#TOP 9

PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Fishing Reel

Black Silver
3000
PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Pursuit IV Spinning, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Sea - Inshore Fishing, Spin Fishing, Jig, Lure Reel for All-Round Use, Boat, Kayak, Shore, Unisex, Black Silver, 3000

The PENN Pursuit IV is designed for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Its powerful sealed HT-100 multi-disk carbon drag system ensures a smooth line take, even when battling big saltwater fish. The ultra-lightweight, corrosion-resistant graphite body and anodised aluminium spool guarantee durability in harsh conditions. With four quality sealed stainless steel ball bearings, this reel rotates effortlessly, providing you with a seamless fishing experience. Plus, the instant anti-reverse bearing allows for immediate hook-ups, making every catch easier for you.

What We Like
Lightweight yet durable design
Smooth operation with ball bearings
Instant hook-ups with anti-reverse
Effective drag system for big catches
#TOP 10

Seaknight RAPIDII Saltwater Spinning Reel

5000HX 6.2:1 MAX Drag 13KG
5000HX
Seaknight RAPIDII Saltwater Spinning Reel Cover
Seaknight RAPIDII Spinning Reel Saltwater 10+1 Bearing 6.2:1 4.7:1 Anti-Corrosion Sea Fishing Reel Carp Fishing Pike 2000H 2500H 3000H 4000H 5000H 6000 Carbon Fiber Drag Max 15kg/33LB

The Seaknight RAPIDII Reel is designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, thanks to its anti-corrosive bearings and components. With 10 stainless ball bearings plus one anti-reverse bearing, you can expect smooth operation, which enhances your fishing experience. The updated asymmetrical rotor design makes the reel lighter while providing powerful performance. Additionally, the super light CNC aluminium spool ensures that you can cast with ease, reducing fatigue on those longer fishing trips.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant for durability
Smooth operation with 11 bearings
Lightweight yet powerful design
CNC aluminium spool for easy casting
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best saltwater spinning reels?

Top 5 Saltwater Spinning Reels. Shimano Baitrunner D.Daiwa BG.Penn Slammer III.Penn Battle II & III.Shimano Stradic.

2. Are saltwater reels different?

Saltwater reels are designed with special castings to resist saltwater corrosion. The main difference between saltwater and freshwater gear is the ability of saltwater gear to withstand the corrosive environment it is subjected to.

Editor's Notes

During our saltwater fishing reel research, we found 306 saltwater fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 33,491 customer reviews through our big data system to write the saltwater fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose saltwater fishing reels with an average price of £32.50.

The saltwater fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of saltwater fishing reels, including Penn, Diwa, ANGRYFISH, Sougayilang, Seaknight.

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.