10 Best Line Counter Fishing Reels 2025 in the United States

The PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel is designed for anglers who value durability and ease of use. One of its standout features is the lightweight graphite frame, which makes it easy to handle for extended periods. The drag system, using HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, is efficient, providing a maximum drag of 33 pounds, which is suitable for managing larger catches. The inclusion of 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensures smooth operation, enhancing the fishing experience.

The line capacity is also commendable, accommodating various line types including monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon, which makes it versatile for different fishing conditions. The gear ratio and line counter accuracy are effective for precise bait presentations, an essential factor for many anglers.

The reel's design is ambidextrous, and while the graphite construction is lightweight, it may not offer the same level of durability as all-metal options. The product's ranking within the sports and outdoors category suggests it's popular, but may not be the top choice for professional anglers seeking advanced performance.

The PENN Squall II is a reliable option for recreational fishers and casual users looking for a functional and lightweight reel. Its strengths lie in its ease of use, smooth operation, and versatile line handling, making it suitable for a variety of fishing situations. Those with a focus on extreme durability or professional-grade features may wish to explore other options.

The KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel (Size 10, Right Handed) is designed to meet the needs of various anglers, from those targeting smaller species like Trout and Walleye to those pursuing larger fish. One of its strongest points is the accurate mechanical line counter, which helps maintain consistent bait placement. The reel's construction includes high-quality components such as stainless-steel ball bearings, brass main gears, and a stainless-steel pinion gear, ensuring durability and smooth operation in tough conditions. The drag system is quite powerful with up to 25 lbs of drag for the size 10 model, making it efficient for stopping larger fish.

With a gear ratio of 5.1:1, it offers a good balance of speed and power for various fishing techniques, including trolling and jigging. The line capacity is ample, holding over 250 yards of 20 lb monofilament line, which is sufficient for most fishing scenarios. The handle design for the size 10 model includes a comfortable EVA paddle handle suitable for smaller fish. However, the reel might feel slightly heavy for some users at 1.2 pounds, and having only three ball bearings might not provide the smoothest experience compared to other reels with more bearings.

Additionally, while the graphite material ensures lightweight construction, it may not be as durable as metal in the long run. Users looking for a reliable and versatile line counter reel will find the KastKing ReKon to be a solid choice, especially given its reasonable price point and user-friendly features.

The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable and well-built fishing reel. One of its main strengths is its lightweight, yet durable construction made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum and stainless steel. This makes it a great option for various fishing conditions, especially in saltwater environments. The reel features a multi-disc carbonite drag system with a maximum drag of 15.43 pounds, allowing for smooth operation and control when reeling in larger fish. The integrated line counter is a practical feature, helping fishermen track the amount of line deployed, which is particularly beneficial for trolling. Users also appreciate the ergonomic aluminum handle, designed for comfort during extended use.

However, there are a few areas where the CW-453D might fall short. The reel is primarily designed for right-handed users, which limits its accessibility for left-handed anglers. Additionally, while the line counter is generally accurate, some users have reported occasional discrepancies, which could affect performance in some fishing scenarios. The gear ratio isn't provided, which can be a key factor for certain fishing techniques. For those seeking a high-performance reel specifically tailored for competitive fishing or heavy-duty use, this model may not fully meet those demands.

The Okuma CW-453D is ideal for casual to intermediate anglers who enjoy trolling and appreciate a lightweight, corrosion-resistant reel with a user-friendly design. However, it may not be the best fit for advanced users or left-handed anglers looking for specific high-end features.