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10 Best Closed Face Fishing Reel 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 30 Reel, Dual Ceramic Pick-up Pins, Solid-Brass Pinion Gear, GlideLine ll Line Retrieval System, Pre-Spooled with 10-Pound Fishing Line, Braid Ready, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Build Quality
Ease of Use

Most important from
217 reviews

Build Quality
Zebco has crafted an awesome product that won't fail or have the thumb bar break.
Ease of Use
The quality and ease of use make this reel a top choice for any angler.

The Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel is a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use fishing reel. With a gear ratio of 3.2:1 and a maximum drag capability of 20 pounds, it provides decent performance for medium to heavy fish species such as walleye, bass, and catfish. One of its standout features is the GlideLine II line retrieval system, which enhances smoothness and efficiency, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.

The reel's build quality shines with its all-metal construction and anodized aluminum front cover. This not only lends durability but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. The pre-spooled 10-pound line is a nice touch, saving users the hassle of spooling their own line.

Ease of use is another strong point thanks to the soft-touch thumb button and ambidextrous handle, which can be customized for right or left-handed users. The presence of 7 bearings, including a clutch, ensures a smooth reeling experience that can be appreciated during long fishing trips. Plus, the anti-reverse feature offers an added layer of control when reeling in catches. However, the 3.2:1 gear ratio, while adequate, may feel slow for anglers used to higher ratios in spinning reels, especially in fast-paced fishing scenarios. Additionally, while it's versatile and works well with monofilament and braided lines, some users might prefer a reel that can hold more line capacity for larger species or longer fishing excursions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Build Quality
Ease of Use

Most important from
217 reviews

Build Quality
Zebco has crafted an awesome product that won't fail or have the thumb bar break.
Ease of Use
The quality and ease of use make this reel a top choice for any angler.
#2

Zebco 808 Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, 7-Foot 2-Piece Fishing Pole, Size 80 Reel, Changeable Right- or Left-Hand Retrieve, Pre-Spooled with 20-Pound Zebco Line, Black

Rating
9.7
Reel Size
Build Quality

Most important from
523 reviews

Reel Size
The 808 is a very large reel, heavy-duty, perfect for reaching way out into the river.
Build Quality
An excellent deal, especially when on sale, providing great value with the sturdy Zebco 808 and 7' medium heavy rods.

The Zebco 808 Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is designed for both novice and experienced anglers, featuring a 7-foot 2-piece rod and a size 80 reel that is pre-spooled with 20-pound line. Its gear ratio of 2.6:1 offers smooth performance, though it may not be the fastest for reeling in fish quickly. The drag system is adjustable for added control, and the QuickSet anti-reverse feature ensures solid hooksets.

Built for durability, the reel includes all-metal gears and a ceramic pick-up pin that resists wear and tear. One standout feature is the built-in bite alert, which notifies you of fish activity, making it easier to know when to reel in. The changeable hand retrieve accommodates both right and left-handed users, adding to its versatility.

However, the larger reel size may feel bulky for some users, and the design might be overkill for lighter fishing needs. With a one-year warranty, Zebco stands by their product’s build quality and reliability, making this combo a solid choice for those looking to explore various fishing conditions.

Rating
9.7
Reel Size
Build Quality

Most important from
523 reviews

Reel Size
The 808 is a very large reel, heavy-duty, perfect for reaching way out into the river.
Build Quality
An excellent deal, especially when on sale, providing great value with the sturdy Zebco 808 and 7' medium heavy rods.
#3

Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 30 Reel, Changeable Right or Left-Hand Retrieve, Pre-Spooled with 10-Pound Zebco Fishing Line, Aluminum and Double Anodized Front Cover, Silver

Rating
9.1
Gear Ratio
Drag System
Build Quality

Most important from
1408 reviews

Gear Ratio
The reel delivers exceptionally smooth casts and silky-smooth retrieves, making fishing feel effortless and enjoyable.
Drag System
Its drag system adjusts in precise, small increments and is easy to access without accidental changes, providing reliable control when fighting fish.
Build Quality
The build quality is solid and durable, ensuring long-term use without performance degradation even after years of fishing.
Ease of Use
It handles light lures and small jig heads with surprising ease, allowing for accurate casting and excellent sensitivity to fish bites.

The Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel is a solid choice for anglers looking for a user-friendly and reliable closed-face reel. It offers a 16-inch line retrieve rate, which means you can reel in line smoothly and at a good pace, helping with control during casting and retrieval. Its line capacity holds up to 85 yards of 10-pound monofilament, making it suitable for catching medium to larger freshwater fish like bass, walleye, and catfish. The drag system supports up to 10 pounds of resistance, giving you enough power to handle tough fish without the line breaking. The reel size 30 is a versatile, comfortable fit for most users, and its ambidextrous design allows you to switch easily between right- and left-hand retrieve. Build quality is strong, featuring aluminum components and a double anodized front cover that enhance durability and corrosion resistance. An added plus is the reel’s anti-reverse feature, which prevents the handle from turning backward and helps secure your catch.

With seven bearings, it provides smooth operation, reducing wrist fatigue during extended fishing sessions. It comes pre-spooled with quality 10-pound Zebco line and includes a spare spool for convenience. Some may find the reel a bit heavier compared to lighter spinning reels, and the gear feel may not be as refined as higher-end models. Still, for beginners or casual anglers wanting a dependable, easy-to-use spincast reel, the Zebco Omega balances performance and durability without being complicated.

Rating
9.1
Gear Ratio
Drag System
Build Quality

Most important from
1408 reviews

Gear Ratio
The reel delivers exceptionally smooth casts and silky-smooth retrieves, making fishing feel effortless and enjoyable.
Drag System
Its drag system adjusts in precise, small increments and is easy to access without accidental changes, providing reliable control when fighting fish.
Build Quality
The build quality is solid and durable, ensuring long-term use without performance degradation even after years of fishing.
Ease of Use
It handles light lures and small jig heads with surprising ease, allowing for accurate casting and excellent sensitivity to fish bites.

Buying Guide for the Best Closed Face Fishing Reel

Choosing the right closed-face fishing reel can greatly enhance your fishing experience. Closed-face reels, also known as spincast reels, are popular for their ease of use and reliability, making them a great choice for beginners and casual anglers. When selecting a closed-face fishing reel, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your time on the water more effectively.
Gear RatioThe gear ratio of a fishing reel indicates how many times the spool rotates with each turn of the handle. This spec is important because it affects the speed and power of your retrieve. A higher gear ratio (e.g., 5:1) means faster line retrieval, which is useful for catching fast-moving fish. A lower gear ratio (e.g., 3:1) provides more power and is better for reeling in larger, heavier fish. Choose a gear ratio based on the type of fish you plan to catch and your preferred fishing style.
Line CapacityLine capacity refers to the amount of fishing line that the reel can hold, usually measured in yards for a specific line weight. This spec is important because it determines how much line you have available to cast and fight fish. If you plan to fish in deeper waters or target larger fish, you'll need a reel with a higher line capacity. For casual fishing in shallow waters, a lower line capacity will suffice. Match the line capacity to the type of fishing you intend to do.
Drag SystemThe drag system on a fishing reel allows you to control the amount of resistance a fish feels when it pulls on the line. This is crucial for preventing the line from breaking and for tiring out the fish. A smooth and adjustable drag system is important for handling different fish sizes and fighting styles. Look for a reel with a reliable drag system that can be easily adjusted to match the strength of the fish you are targeting.
Reel SizeReel size is an important factor that affects the overall balance and feel of your fishing setup. Smaller reels are lighter and easier to handle, making them ideal for beginners and for targeting smaller fish. Larger reels are heavier but offer more power and line capacity, which is beneficial for catching bigger fish. Choose a reel size that feels comfortable in your hand and matches the type of fishing you plan to do.
Build QualityThe build quality of a fishing reel refers to the materials and construction used in its design. This spec is important because it affects the reel's durability and performance. Reels made from high-quality materials like aluminum or stainless steel are more resistant to corrosion and wear, making them suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Consider the environments you will be fishing in and choose a reel with a build quality that can withstand those conditions.
Ease of UseEase of use is a key factor, especially for beginners. Closed-face reels are generally easier to use than other types of reels because they have a simple push-button mechanism for casting. Look for a reel with intuitive controls and a comfortable handle. If you're new to fishing, prioritize a reel that is straightforward to operate and requires minimal maintenance.

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