Best Star Drag Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Star drag fishing reels are a type of fishing reel that is designed to provide anglers with greater control over their fishing line. These reels feature a star-shaped drag system that can be adjusted to increase or decrease the amount of resistance on the line, allowing anglers to more easily reel in their catch. Star drag reels are popular among both novice and experienced anglers due to their ease of use and versatility. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different fishing needs, from freshwater to saltwater fishing.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX 6600 Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 1
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX 6600 Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Penn Squall II Star Drag Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 2
Penn Squall II Star Drag Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S5500 Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 3
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S5500 Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Star Drag Fishing Reels

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX 6600 Fishing Reel

AMBSX-6600
Multi-coloured
6600- 255yd/17lb
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX 6600 Fishing Reel Cover
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX Conventional Reel, Size 6600 (1292730), 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 12.5lb

The Abu Garcia SX Reel is designed for anglers seeking a lightweight yet durable option. Its machined aluminium spool ensures strength without unnecessary weight, making it easy to handle throughout the day. With a recovery rate of 26 inches per crank and a gear ratio of 5.3:1, you can efficiently retrieve line, enhancing your fishing experience. The synchronized level wind system ensures even line lay, which contributes to smoother retrieves, allowing you to focus on your catch without hassle.

What We Like
Lightweight design for easy handling
Efficient line recovery rate
Smooth retrieve with level wind system
Adjustable drag system for fighting fish
#TOP 2

Penn Squall II Star Drag Fishing Reel

SQLII40SD
Black Gold
SQLII40SD
Penn Squall II Star Drag Fishing Reel Cover
Penn Squall II Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel, SQLII40SD,Black Gold

The Penn Squall II Reel is designed for durability and efficiency. Its graphite frame and side plates provide a lightweight yet strong structure, making it easy for you to handle during long fishing sessions. The high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear ensures reliable performance, enabling smooth operation even in tough conditions. Additionally, the stainless steel pinion gear enhances longevity and resistance to corrosion. The Versa-Drag system, equipped with HT-100 washers, gives you precise drag adjustments, allowing you to control your catch effectively.

What We Like
Lightweight graphite construction
Durable bronze alloy gear
Corrosion-resistant stainless steel gear
Precise drag adjustments
#TOP 3

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S5500 Fishing Reel

AMBS-5500
Silver
5500
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S5500 Fishing Reel Cover
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel, Size 5500 (1292732), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb | 4.9kg,Silver

The Abu Garcia S5500 Reel is designed for enhanced fishing experiences. It features two stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring smooth operation and reducing friction, which makes your casting and reeling effortless. The multi-disc drag system allows you to easily adjust the drag pressure, giving you better control when battling with larger fish. Its compact bent handle and star provide a comfortable grip, making it easier for you to handle your catch. Additionally, the 4-pin centrifugal brake helps optimise your casting distance and accuracy, making every fishing trip more enjoyable.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Easy drag adjustments
Comfortable grip
Improved casting accuracy

PENN Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel

FTHII12SD
Black Gold
12 | Right Hand
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Fathom® II Star Drag Reel, Saltwater Fishing Reel, Conventional Reels, Sea - Nearshore/Offshore Fishing, Shore and Kayak Fishing, Unisex, Black Gold, 12 | Right Hand

The PENN Fathom II Reel is designed for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Its full metal body and side plates ensure durability and strength, allowing you to tackle tough fishing conditions. The fast gear access side plate makes it easier for you to adjust and maintain your reel quickly. With a machine-cut marine grade bronze main gear and hardened stainless steel pinion, you can expect smooth and reliable performance. Lastly, the Versa-drag system with HT-100 washers provides excellent drag control, giving you confidence when fighting larger fish.

What We Like
Durable full metal construction
Quick gear access
Smooth performance
Excellent drag control

Okuma Convector Star Drag Reel with Line Counter

Okuma
CV-20D
Okuma Convector Star Drag Reel with Line Counter Cover
Okuma Convector Star Drag Line Counter Reel (20/220), Black

The Okuma Convector Reel offers a variety of features to enhance your fishing experience. With precision machine cut brass main and pinion gears, you can expect durability and smooth operation. The mechanical line counter function measures the line in feet, allowing you to track your distance with ease. Its Clear View Technology ensures that the line counter remains clear and free from fogging, so you can always see your measurements. Additionally, the automatic trip and spool engagement mechanism provide a seamless fishing experience, giving you more time to focus on catching fish.

What We Like
Durable brass gears
Clear line counter
Automatic spool engagement
High output drag system
Stainless steel bearings
#TOP 6

PENN Fathom II Star Drag Reel for Fishing

FTHII30SD
Black Gold
30 | Right Hand
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Reel for Fishing Cover
PENN Fathom® II Star Drag Reel, Saltwater Fishing Reel, Conventional Reels, Sea - Nearshore/Offshore Fishing, Shore and Kayak Fishing, Unisex, Black Gold, 30 | Right Hand

The PENN Fathom II Reel is designed for durability and performance in saltwater fishing. Its full metal body and side plates ensure longevity, making it a reliable choice for anglers. The fast gear access side plate allows you to quickly reach internal components for maintenance, saving you time on the water. With a machine-cut marine grade bronze main gear paired with a hardened stainless steel pinion, you benefit from enhanced strength and smooth operation. Additionally, the Versa-drag system with HT-100 washers provides excellent control over your catch, allowing you to adjust drag smoothly for a better fishing experience.

What We Like
Durable metal construction
Quick access for maintenance
Smooth operation and strength
Adjustable drag system
#TOP 7

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Reel 6500

C3-6500
Silver
C3-6500
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Reel 6500 Cover
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Conventional Reel, Size 6500 (1292722), 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Carbon Fiber Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg,Silver

The Abu Garcia C3 Reel is a robust baitcast fishing reel designed for strength and smooth operation. With its three stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing, you can expect a seamless experience while fishing. The Carbon Matrix drag system ensures a consistent drag, enabling you to control your catch effectively. Additionally, the six pin centrifugal brake allows for precise casting, giving you the confidence to target your desired spots with accuracy.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Consistent drag control
Precise casting
Durable construction
#TOP 8

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Reel with Drag System

C3-7000
Silver
C3-7000
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Reel with Drag System Cover
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Conventional Reel, Size 7000 (1324531), 2 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Carbon Fiber Star Drag, Max of 20lb | 9.0kg,Silver

The Abu Garcia C3 Reel features a robust machined aluminium spool, ensuring durability without unnecessary weight, which is perfect for extended fishing sessions. Its impressive recovery rate of 22 inches per crank allows you to reel in fish quickly and efficiently. The synchronous level wind system guarantees even line lay, enhancing your casting experience. Additionally, the carbon fibre star drag system provides smooth and consistent drag pressure, giving you confidence when battling larger fish.

What We Like
Durable aluminium construction
High recovery rate
Smooth line retrieval
Consistent drag pressure
Lightweight design
#TOP 9

PENN Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel

FTHII8XNSD
black gold
8XNSD
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Fathom II Star Drag Fishing Reel, Black, Gold

The PENN Fathom II Reel features a robust full metal body and side plates, ensuring durability during your fishing adventures. The fast gear access sideplate allows you to make quick adjustments without hassle, enhancing your fishing experience. Its machine-cut marine grade bronze main gear, combined with a hardened stainless steel pinion, offers reliable performance and longevity. Additionally, the Versa-Drag system with HT-100 washers provides smooth drag adjustments, giving you the control you need when battling larger fish.

What We Like
Durable full metal construction
Quick gear access
Reliable bronze main gear
Smooth drag adjustments

FLADEN WARBIRD GCT20 Sea Fishing Reel

Black
FLADEN WARBIRD GCT20 Sea Fishing Reel Cover
FLADEN Fishing - Multiplier Sea Reel WARBIRD GCT20 2000 - Right Hand 1+1bb Ball Bearing with 20LB Line on [11-47420]

The FLADEN WARBIRD Fishing Reel is an excellent choice for sea anglers. This reel comes pre-spooled with 20lb line, saving you time and effort before you start fishing. With a gear ratio of 4.1:1, it ensures an even line lay, enhancing your casting efficiency. The robust graphite body provides durability, making it ideal for the rigours of sea fishing. Additionally, the star drag wheel allows you to easily adjust the line tension, giving you better control during your fishing experience.

What We Like
Pre-spooled with 20lb line
Durable graphite construction
Adjustable star drag wheel
Even line lay
Convenient right-hand design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better lever or star drag?

The star drag is used to progressively tighten the drag, some will have a ratchet system and some will not, they will just tighten the drag quietly....In Conclusion.

2. How do you set a star drag reel?

mount the reel on the rod you're going to fish it on, run line thru all the guides, and hook on to a spring scale to set the initial drag setting. As the line pulls off the reel the drag will go up, as well as the line drag in the water will increase, so the drag may have to backed off a little.

3. Can you cast with a lever drag reel?

If you can cast a star drag (correctly), you can cast a lever drag. Do some reels cast better than others? Absolutely. But if you learn the right way to do it, it's the same.

Editor's Notes

During our star drag fishing reel research, we found 126 star drag fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,253 customer reviews through our big data system to write the star drag fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose star drag fishing reels with an average price of £116.18.

The star drag fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of star drag fishing reels, including Abu Garcia, Penn, Okuma, FLADEN.

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.