Best Ice Fishing Reels of 2025

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Ice fishing reels are an essential tool for anglers who are looking to catch fish in icy waters. These reels are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of low temperatures and icy environments, making them a reliable choice for ice fishing enthusiasts. With features such as anti-freeze lubrication, smooth drag systems, and sturdy construction, these reels are built to last and provide the necessary support needed to reel in your catch. Whether you are a seasoned ice fisherman or a beginner, investing in a high-quality ice fishing reel is sure to improve your fishing experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Ice Fishing Reels
13 FISHING Black Betty Free Fall Reel
The Black Betty Free Fall Reel enhances your ice fishing experience with its innovative FreeFall Trigger System, allowing you to achieve precise depths and instant hookups by simply releasing the trigger in your target zone. Its durable graphite frame construction ensures it can withstand tough conditions, providing long-lasting performance. The optimal 2.5:1 gear ratio makes it suitable for shallow to mid-depth fishing, while tailored drop speed control enables you to adapt effortlessly to varying fishing conditions and depths.
Eagle Claw In Line Ice Fishing Reel
The Eagle Claw Ice Reel is designed for ice fishing enthusiasts. Its nylon body and spool make it lightweight yet durable, ensuring that you can fish without feeling weighed down. The smooth Teflon drag allows for effortless line control, enhancing your overall fishing experience. Additionally, the spool tension adjustment feature provides you with the ability to customise the reel's performance to suit your fishing style, offering greater flexibility and ease during use.
13 Fishing Freefall Ghost Maverick Reel
The 13 Fishing Ghost Reel offers impressive features for ice fishing enthusiasts. The FreeFall Trigger System allows for quick and easy line release, giving you more control during your fishing experience. With the FreeFall Performance Window, you can monitor your line's position effortlessly. The graphite frame construction ensures the reel is lightweight yet sturdy, enabling you to fish comfortably for longer periods. Additionally, the Drop Speed Control feature allows you to adjust how quickly your bait descends, increasing your chances of catching the perfect fish.
VGEBY Portable Ice Fishing Reel with Line
The VGEBY Ice Fishing Reel features a human design that allows for interchangeable use with both hands, making it comfortable for you to operate. The clear instructions guide you on how to adjust the switch for various fishing techniques, enhancing your overall experience. With its small plate wheel positioned above the pole, you can easily manage the line while reeling in your catch. Additionally, the reel is available in four vibrant colours, allowing you to choose one that suits your style and preferences.
Shimano Inc. Multi-coloured Ice Fishing Reel
The Shimano Inc. Fishing Reel is an ideal choice for ice fishing enthusiasts. This reliable reel is designed to provide smooth operation, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free fishing experience. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle, ensuring you can fish for longer periods without fatigue. Additionally, the vibrant multi-coloured design not only adds a touch of style but also makes it easy to spot in your tackle box. With this reel, you can enhance your ice fishing adventures with ease and comfort.
PENN Rival Longcast Gold 6000 Fishing Reel
The PENN Rival 6000 Reel is designed for serious anglers looking for a reliable fishing companion. Its strong and even braking force ensures that you can control your line with precision, making it ideal for long-distance casting. The lightweight design allows for easy handling during extended fishing sessions, reducing fatigue. This unisex reel is perfect for various fishing styles, whether you’re surf, rock, or beach fishing, providing versatility for all your aquatic adventures.
Mitchell MX3 FS Freespool Carp Fishing Reel
The Mitchell MX3 FS Reel is designed for all-round fishing with its efficient freespool system. This feature allows you to let line out freely, making it easier to catch carp and other species without resistance. With 5+1 ball bearings, you will enjoy smooth retrieves, enhancing your overall fishing experience. The anti-reverse on/off switch ensures you have complete control over your line, preventing any unexpected catches. Additionally, the aluminium spool with flex clip offers durability and convenience when changing lines, providing you with a reliable tool for your fishing adventures.
Matymats 500 Ultralight Spinning Fishing Reel
The Matymats 500 Reel is designed for avid anglers seeking an ultralight and durable fishing experience. Its lightweight construction, weighing just 6 ounces, makes it perfect for finesse fishing, allowing you to easily manoeuvre while targeting trout and panfish. The powerful drag system offers a maximum stopping power of 22LB, giving you the confidence to reel in larger catches. With 11+1 stainless steel ball bearings, you will enjoy ultra-smooth operation, enhancing your overall fishing performance and enjoyment. Whether in freshwater or saltwater, this reel is built to withstand various fishing conditions.
SHIMANO Reel Sienna FG 2500 for Ice Fishing
The SHIMANO Sienna FG 2500 is an excellent choice for ice fishing enthusiasts. With a reel size of 2500FG and a single crank design, it offers a convenient and efficient fishing experience. The 5.0:1 transmission ratio ensures quick retrieval, allowing you to catch more fish in less time. Weighing only 250 grams, it is lightweight and easy to handle, making your fishing trips more enjoyable. Additionally, the rope holder can accommodate 0.25 mm rope up to 160 metres, providing ample space for your fishing needs.
Keenso 12BB Heavy Duty Fishing Reel
The Keenso Fishing Reel is designed for serious anglers, featuring a sturdy aluminium alloy construction that ensures durability and a brilliant finish. Its high-tensile gear and fully adjustable cast control allow for precise and efficient casting, making your fishing experience smoother. The reinforced metal shaft contributes to a long service life, while the fast retractable line outlet offers quick and hassle-free line management. The wooden handle adds comfort, allowing you to fish for extended periods without discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What size reel is best for ice fishing?
What size reel is best for ice fishing? The most popular reel size for ice fishing is a 1000 size reel spooled with either 4lb or 6lb test. This is a great all-around size capable of catching small panfish like bluegill, or large-sized lake trout.
2. Can you use any reel for ice fishing?
Yes, absolutely – you can use a regular spinning reel for ice fishing. Small spinning reel sizes from 1000 to 3000 are ideal for hard water fishing. You should use the smallest ones (1000 – 2000) for panfish, and the larger sized models (2500 – 3000) for bigger fish such as walleye, pike and lake trout.
3. What is an inline ice reel?
At a Glance: Inline Reels Line twist causes the jigs below the ice to spin and spin. The spinning jigs can keep finicky winter panfish like bluegill and crappie from striking the bait, as observed by anglers using underwater cameras.
During our ice fishing reel research, we found 58 ice fishing reel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,246 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ice fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose ice fishing reels with an average price of £32.26.
The ice fishing reels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ice fishing reels, including 13 FISHING, Eagle Claw, VGEBY, Shimano Inc., Penn. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 28,224 consumers with an average rating of 4.2.

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.