Best Surf Fishing Reels of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Surf fishing reels are essential tools for anglers who enjoy fishing in saltwater environments. These reels are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the surf zone, where waves, sand, and salt can quickly damage delicate equipment. Surf fishing reels are typically larger and more robust than traditional reels, with features such as corrosion-resistant materials, powerful drag systems, and high line capacity. These reels are suitable for targeting a wide range of species, from small surf perch to large sharks and rays. If you're planning a surf fishing trip, investing in a high-quality surf fishing reel can help you to maximise your chances of success.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel Cover #TOP 1
PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
PENN Rival Longcast Gold Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 2
PENN Rival Longcast Gold Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hunter Pro HP70S Surf Fishing Reel with 20lb Line Cover #TOP 3
Hunter Pro HP70S Surf Fishing Reel with 20lb Line
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Surf Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel

1519208
Yellow, black
8000
PENN Surfblaster III Longcast Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Surfblaster III Longcast, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Sea Fishing, long Distance Spool Surf Casting Reel for Saltwater Beach and Rock Fishing, Unisex, Black, Gold, 8000

The PENN Surfblaster III is designed for serious anglers seeking enhanced precision casting. With its tapered spool and slow oscillation system, you can enjoy impressive casting distances with minimal friction. Its ultra-smooth performance comes from five sealed stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring efficient casting and retrieval. The renowned HT-100 brake system provides quick stopping power for powerful fish, giving you the confidence to handle challenging catches. Additionally, the robust construction and anti-reverse system withstand intense sea fishing conditions, making this reel a reliable choice for your adventures.

What We Like
Enhanced casting distance
Ultra-smooth operation
Durable construction
Comfortable grip
Versatile for various conditions

PENN Rival Longcast Gold Spinning Reel

1524488
Black Gold
8000
PENN Rival Longcast Gold Spinning Reel Cover
PENN Rival Longcast Gold, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Sea Fishing, Lightweight Long Distance Casting Reel for Sea, Saltwater, Surf, Rock and Beach Fishing, Unisex, Black Gold, 8000

The PENN Rival Reel is designed for serious anglers who enjoy long-distance casting. It features protected stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring a smooth and reliable performance while you fish. The strong and smooth brake system allows for precise control, making it easier for you to handle challenging catches. With the T Crank Knob, you can enjoy a comfortable grip during extended use, reducing fatigue. The stylish gold colour adds a touch of elegance to your fishing gear, making it both functional and visually appealing.

What We Like
Smooth performance with bearings
Precise control with brake system
Comfortable grip with T Knob
Stylish gold colour
#TOP 3

Hunter Pro HP70S Surf Fishing Reel with 20lb Line

HP70S
Grey
Hunter Pro HP70S Surf Fishing Reel with 20lb Line Cover
Sea Fishing Reel Hunter Pro 70s Surf With 20lb Line Black Chrome Spool New!

The Hunter Pro HP70S Reel is designed for sea fishing enthusiasts. It features a lightweight and strong graphite body, making it easy to handle while ensuring durability. The interchangeable left or right-hand folding handle allows you to fish comfortably, regardless of your preference. With silent anti-reverse functionality, you can enjoy a smooth fishing experience without distractions. The adjustable front drag gives you precise control over your line tension, ensuring you can reel in your catch with confidence.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Interchangeable handle for comfort
Smooth silent operation
Precise adjustable drag

Fladen Maxximus 6500 Hi Speed Surf Casting Reel

Black
Fladen Maxximus 6500 Hi Speed Surf Casting Reel Cover
Fladen Maxximus 6500 Hi Speed Surf Sea Casting Multiplier Fishing Reel

The Fladen Maxximus 6500 Reel is an impressive right-handed fishing reel designed for surf beach casting. Its 8 pin centrifugal brake and additional magnetic brakes provide excellent control, helping you to achieve more accurate casts. With a line capacity of 250m x 0.35mm and a floating spool, you can enjoy longer casting distances, making your fishing experience more productive. The power handle and 2+1 ball bearings enhance your retrieval efficiency, allowing you to reel in your catch with ease.

What We Like
Long casting distance
Enhanced control features
Powerful handle for easy retrieval
Stylish design

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

Silstar Waves 8000 Surf Casting Fishing Reel

Grey
8000
Silstar Waves 8000 Surf Casting Fishing Reel Cover
Silstar Waves 8000 Marine Surf Casting Fishing Reel 7 Ball Bearings (6 + 1) Fast Front Drag Fixed Spool Sea Fishing Reel Aluminium Spool and Handle plus spare graphite Braid spool

The Silstar Waves 8000 Reel is an impressive surf casting fishing reel designed for sea fishing enthusiasts. Weighing just 598g, it features a robust high-impact graphite body along with an aluminium spool and handle, ensuring durability while you fish. With a smooth operation provided by 7 ball bearings and a gear ratio of 4:6.1, you will enjoy effortless casting and retrieval. The oversized line roller helps to reduce tangles, making your fishing experience more enjoyable and efficient.

What We Like
Lightweight design for easy handling
Smooth operation with 7 ball bearings
Durable graphite and aluminium materials
Reduced line tangles with oversized roller
Fast front drag for quick adjustments
#TOP 7

Okuma Surf 8K Spinning Fishing Reel

SURF-8K
Multi-coloured
One Size
Okuma Surf 8K Spinning Fishing Reel Cover
Okuma Reels Surf 8K Spinning 5Bb+1Rb 4.7:1

The Okuma Surf 8K Reel is designed to enhance your fishing experience. Its quick set anti-reverse roller bearing ensures immediate hook setting, preventing any backward motion when you strike. The CFR cyclonic flow rotor improves airflow, which helps with line management and reduces tangles. With its slow oscillation system, you can achieve better line lay, making it easier to cast further. The fast drag system allows for quick adjustments, giving you full control during your catch. These features combine to provide a smooth and efficient fishing experience.

What We Like
Smooth operation
Improved line management
Quick adjustments
Enhanced casting distance

BLACKROCK BULLFROG 8000 Surf Fishing Reel

Grey
BLACKROCK BULLFROG 8000 Surf Fishing Reel Cover
BLACKROCK - BULLFROG 8000 SURF Fishing Reel FAST DRAG DISTANCE 8 Stainless Steel Marine Ball Bearings (7 + 1) Fixed Spool Distance Surf Casting with Aluminium Spool

The BULLFROG 8000 Reel by BLACKROCK is designed for serious anglers. With its fast drag system, you can swiftly manage line tension when battling big fish. Its impressive distance casting capability allows you to reach further spots, perfect for marine fishing and big pit carp. The reel features high-end components, ensuring durability and reliability during your fishing adventures. Additionally, the eight stainless steel ball bearings provide a smooth operation, making your casting experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Fast drag for quick adjustments
Excellent distance casting capabilities
Durable high-end components
Smooth operation with ball bearings
#TOP 9

FLADEN Maxximus Ignobix FD8000 Fishing Reel

11-9680
Black
FLADEN Maxximus Ignobix FD8000 Fishing Reel Cover
FLADEN Fishing - Maxximus Ignobix Reel Premium Surf Casting Beach Spinning FD8000 with 6+1 Ball Bearings Front Drag and Huge Line Capacity [11-9680]

The FLADEN Ignobix Reel is designed for serious anglers seeking reliability and performance. It boasts a strong braking system that helps you manage big catches with ease. The huge line capacity allows you to cast further and handle larger fish without worrying about running out of line. Its computer-balanced rotor ensures smooth operation, reducing the chances of line twists, while the aluminium spool provides durability and strength. With these features, you can enjoy a more efficient and enjoyable fishing experience.

What We Like
Strong braking system
Large line capacity
Smooth operation
Durable aluminium spool

PENN Combat III Versatile Sea Fishing Reel

1581042
Black / Blue
5000
PENN Combat III Versatile Sea Fishing Reel Cover
PENN Combat III, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Sea Fishing, Versatile Sea Fishing Reel For Boat, Kayak, Shore, Spinning, Jigging, Surf, and All-Round Use, Unisex, Black / Blue, 5000

The PENN Combat III Reel is built with a full metal body and sideplate, ensuring outstanding strength and durability for all saltwater fishing adventures. You will appreciate the smooth and strong HT-100 carbon fibre drag washers, which provide excellent control during intense fights with large fish. The Techno-Balanced rotor guarantees smooth retrieves, making your fishing experience more enjoyable. Additionally, the Superline spool allows you to tie braid directly onto it, eliminating the need for backing and enhancing your convenience while fishing.

What We Like
Durable metal construction
Smooth drag control
Easy braid attachment
Ultra-smooth performance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a surf reel?

Surf fishing is a fun and productive way to catch many types of fish. ... Surf fishing reels often have a tall spool to allow for further casting. Baitrunner reels have an independent low drag system to allow the fish to swim with the bait before setting the hook and work well for surf fishing.

2. What size reel is best for surf fishing?

For general purpose surf fishing I recommend a 4000 to 6000 series spinning reel paired with 15# to 25# braided line. A setup in this range will land 90% of the common beach dwelling species you are likely to encounter.

Editor's Notes

During our surf fishing reel research, we found 196 surf fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,401 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surf fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose surf fishing reels with an average price of £44.51.

The surf fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surf fishing reels, including Penn, Hunter Pro, FLADEN, Sougayilang, FISHZONE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 52 consumers with an average rating of 4.3.

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.