The Best Surf Casting Reels for 2022
Shore fishing involves unique challenges not encountered when fishing from a boat, so the gear needed is a bit different. When it comes to surf fishing, this is particularly true.
A rod and reel designed particularly for surf fishing are required. People often concentrate on finding gear that can cast far, but you’ll also need to think about how adaptable your surf fishing set up will need to be.
You’ll need a reel that can handle the demanding and rewarding circumstances you’ll experience going after those big fish in the surf. We’ve put up a list of the best surf fishing reels including not only top of the line models, but also affordable reels that will perform outstandingly.
Top 10 Surf Fishing Reels
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1. Penn Slammer IV
The IPX6 Sealed system of the Slammer IV reel keeps water, salt, and sand out of the gear box and drag system. The revised Slammer Drag System now uses PENN’s patented Dura-Drag material, the same Dura-Drag material used in PENN Internationals!
Larger handles are becoming more common on spinning reels these days. They have a fantastic feel to them and perform admirably. It’s less taxing on your hands and fingers, and it’s easier to hold the rod without the reel slipping back and forth in your hands. Also, because the larger handle is easier to manage when reeling in rapidly or working a lure fast, it’s easier to maintain a speed steady. In the box, all models of the Slammer IV reels come with a metal gold handle knob as well as an EVA foam knob, except for the 2500 model, which comes with only an EVA knob.
The Slammer IV astonishes with its long-lasting smoothness and durability. For the forthcoming fishing season, you should surely have one of the Slammer IV reels in your arsenal.
2. Shimano Vanford F 5000 Spinning Reel
This reel is unquestionably a high-end option, but it’s well worth the money.
One of the first things you’ll notice is that it has a 24-pound maximum drag weight.
The Shimano Vanford F offers everything you need to succeed. Everything about the gearing and construction is intended to eliminate friction and deliver a silky smooth casting and reeling experience.
It’s also one of the most lightweight options on the list. Overall, the 5000 reel weighs just 7.8 ounces, which, when combined with Shimano’s patented technology, makes this a terrific reel.
3. Quantum Cabo Surf Spinning Reel
This great reel that was designed specifically for saltwater fishing. It’s completely sealed and has water-shedding devices. The materials used alternate between titanium, ceramic, and carbon fiber, all of which are extremely strong. The Cabo PT comes in a variety of models with drag weights ranging from 30 to 50 pounds, the highest option on our list.
Unfortunately, it is also the heaviest. The 50-pound drag weight model weighs nearly to two pounds, otherwise, it’s a fantastic long-distance casting reel.
4. Penn Spinfisher VI
The Penn Spinfisher VI isn’t the most costly reel on the market, but it’s close to the end of the line before you start seeing less added value per extra dollar spent. Anything beyond this will start to get into incredibly particular uses and features that are generally only relevant to folks who are targeting specific places and species of fish.
The Penn Spinfisher VI combines balance with versatility to provide a great fishing experience in nearly any situation. It employs precision machining to enable casting over incredible distances.
It has four presets for rear drag control, allowing for on-the-fly modifications to accommodate a variety of fish sizes. These settings can be tweaked to the angler’s preference.
The reel’s all-metal body is coated with their unique IPX5 coating, making it very durable and resistant to filth and spray.
It’s a little more expensive, but it’s an ideal reel well worth the money.
5. Shimano Stradic FL
The Shimano Stradic’s new Micro Module Gear II gives the reel a super smooth reeling action, and power transfer. Combined with the Silent Drive system, the Stradic FL’s performance exceeds that of reels much higher in price. Shimano’s X Protect water repellent coating, and water channeling labyrinth internal construction protects the reel from corrosive saltwater, and gritty sand. Shimano’s Cross Carbon Drag system can stand up to the hardest charging, powerful fish you might hook into in the surf.
6. Conflict II, Penn CFTII5000LC
The 5000LC Conflict II is another Penn product that specializes in long-distance casting.
They employ the same machining techniques as the Spinfisher, but the body is made of resin and carbon fiber instead of metal. As a result, it’s a considerably lighter choice that may still be used for long distance casting.
Even for such a light reel (the 5000LC weighs under a pound), durability and strength are not compromised. It still has a drag strength of up to 20 pounds, and the moving parts are composed of high-strength carbon fiber.
It isn’t as versatile as some other Penn reels, but its focus on casting distance makes it a decent alternative for when you need to really sling your bait far.
Best Budget Surf Fishing Reels:
7. KastKing Sharky III Spinning Reel
If you’re new to surf fishing or still unsure if it’s for you, you’ll want a reel that gives you the best bang for your buck. Something that won’t break the bank if you decide surf fishing isn’t for you, but also won’t be the reason you give up on it.
As a result, we recommend the KastKing Sharky III as the finest value, entry-level surf reel.
It’s a compact reel that may be used for saltwater and freshwater fishing. They have a carbon fiber system with three discs that can deliver up to 40 pounds of drag. This, paired with the graphite body’s reinforcement, provides great strength and performance for the price.
Kastking’s reels are all covered with an unique sealant that prevents water and dirt from entering the mechanism and fouling it up. They’re a terrific value because of the added protection, especially for new fisherman or children who are prone to fumbles.
8. Penn Wrath Spinning Reel
There isn’t anything negative to say about the Penn Wrath. It’s a very usable reel, especially considering its price.
Because the body is made entirely of graphite, it has a great weight-to-durability ratio, and rust will be the last thing on your mind. The spool is made of aluminum and has a similar weight and balance. You won’t be slowed down because it weighs less than a pound.
Because the drag weight and line capacity are both on the low side, it’s probably not the best choice for long-range casting or big game surf fishing.
It’s an excellent entry-level alternative for those who want to learn more about surf fishing.
9. Okuma Rockaway Surf Reels
The Rockaway surf reel blends metal and graphite construction to provide a lightweight and resilient long-distance casting reel.
It also has a lot of line capacity, with up to 375 yards of 12lb monofilament capacity.
It doesn’t rely on an external sealant to keep moisture out of the inner workings; instead, it employs a proprietary rotor technology that sweeps water away from the mechanisms. The external plates are made of graphite to prevent corrosion.
The max drag weight is 26 pounds, making it one of the stronger reels on this list.
Overall, it’s a well-made reel that leaves nothing to be desired in terms of casting. The gear system provides a quick retrieve, so it’s a good choice if you get tired when winding in your line.
10. SeaKnight Saltwater Spinning Reel
For starting saltwater surf fisherman, the SeaKnight Rapid Saltwater Spinning Reel is an excellent value. It has a fully sealed aluminum body that is sturdy, long-lasting, and corrosion-resistant.
It has three carbon, and three aluminum washers, and can deliver up to 33 pounds of drag.
It’s also remarkably lightweight. Many of its major components are made of hollow, machined aluminum, resulting in a final product that weighs less than a pound.
The company’s other items are also meticulously machined and calibrated, using a mix of carbon and aluminum to achieve a superb balance of weight, strength, and smoothness. All of these elements are necessary for saltwater surf fishing.
It’s one of the greatest saltwater specific alternatives you can get for the money. It’s an excellent starter reel that won’t soon wear out.
Things to Keep in Mind When Purchasing a Surf Fishing Reel:
You can’t go wrong with any of the choices on this list, but you still have to narrow it down in some way. If your local store doesn’t stock any of them, you’ll need to know how to choose the next best alternative. Here are some things to consider.
Saltwater is Hard on Reels
The salt and spray of the ocean will necessitate a far more durable reel. Carbon and graphite choices will work well for this, but if it has metal components, look for one with a protective coating, or components made from metals that don’t easily corrode, like titanium.
Drag
You’ll generally want a greater drag weight if you’re going after big fish.
You can go for a lower drag weight if you’ve perfected your technique and prefer the thrill of a long fight.
In general, you’ll want something that has at least 15 to 20 pounds of drag. Keep in mind though that your drag should be set to only around 20% to 30% of the lines test strength.
Weight
If you’re fishing from the beach, you’ll likely be spending more time casting compared to fishing from a boat.
Surf fishing rods are often in excess of 10 feet in length, so you’ll soon notice any extra weight. That isn’t to say that you should always go for the lightest option, but you should be leaning that way.
There are choices to be made when it comes to reel strength, line capacity and other factors. The best strategy is to first decide which features are the most important to you, then look for the lightest reel that fits those requirements.
A reel with a correct center of gravity will help to offset some of its weight.
Gear Ratio and Line Capacity
There are several elements that will determine exactly what you want in terms of line capacity and gear ratio. In either instance, more isn’t always better.
When it comes to line capacity, don’t worry to much about how it will affect casting distance. All reels on this list have over 200 yards of line. More importantly, think about how heavy a line you’ll need and how much line the fish you’re expecting to catch might strip off the reel while you fight it.
You need more line if the fish is going to take off like a speedboat as soon as you hook it, but you can get away with less if the fish is type that whose fight is more like a heavy anchor.
The speed with which your line is reeled in will be determined by the gear ratios. You should consider two elements for this: how often you’ll need to reel in after casting and how long you’ll have to reel once you’ve hooked a fish.
If you’re doing a lot of long casts, a high gear ratio is beneficial. A lower gear ratio is preferable for slow retrieves or applying slow, steady pressure to a fish to land it.
F.A.Q
What Reel is the Best Choice for Surf Fishing?
In most cases, a spinning reel is the best way to go. They can be reeled in fast, and provide excellent casting. Because much of the mechanism is exposed, it dries quickly, line problems can be easily repaired, and corrosion-prevention coatings can be applied.
Because you’ll be casting a lot, you’ll want something with a high line capacity and a low weight in this area. To deal with bigger fish that don’t want to be caught, you’ll want something with a fairly high drag strength.
At the end of the day, the best reel will be determined by where you’re fishing and what fish you’re after. Saltwater spinning reels must be more durable and waterproof than freshwater reels, especially when fishing in the surf.
Which rod should I use with my surf fishing reel?
For most surf fishing, you’ll want a longer rod, usually at least 8-10 feet, or more if you’re going after the really huge fish. It should be able to throw big lures and cast far enough to reach the deeper waters where the real action is.
What is the Best Surf Fishing Reel Size?
Generally speaking, you should look for a reel that weighs under a pound and can hold 200, or more yards of line. It shouldn’t feel heavy in your hands.
You want something with the right profile and center of gravity so that fishing doesn’t become too tiring. Repeatedly casting and retrieving with an unbalanced, heavy feeling rig will soon exhaust you, and ruin your day on the water
When is the Ideal Time to go Surf Fishing?
The success of fishing is heavily influenced by the tides in the ocean. The optimum time is always at high tide. Simply put, as the water level rises, the fish move closer to the shore. Just before the peak of a high tide is the most productive time for surf fishing. Sunrise and sunset are optimal times, and when a high tide falls at sunrise, or sunset, get out there and catch a whopper!
Finally
When it comes to choosing the ideal reel for surf fishing, there are a few things to keep in mind. You want something light, sturdy, and durable. Think about what you’ll be fishing for as well as where you’ll be fishing. It’s a good idea is to start with the highest quality reel that you can reasonably afford. Don’t buy cheap junk that will soon fail to work just to save a few bucks.
Surf fishing is a gratifying activity that can lead to new and exciting experiences. It simply necessitates slightly more specialized equipment, and having the correct tools can be the difference between success and failure.
See also Best Surf Fishing Rods .