10 Best Musky Fishing Reels 2026 in the United States

The Shimano Trinidad TN20A is a solid choice for anglers targeting musky, especially those who prefer trolling techniques. It features a gear ratio of 6.2:1, which provides a good balance between power and speed, helping you reel in big fish without struggling. The line capacity is generous, able to hold enough braided line (20 lb test with 420 yards or 25 lb test with 300 yards), which suits the long and heavy lines often used in musky fishing. Its drag system, using Shimano’s Cross Carbon Drag, offers smooth and consistent pressure with a maximum drag of 25 pounds—enough to handle strong fights but possibly a bit light for very large muskies.

The reel’s size 20 is comfortable for musky fishing, and the compact, metal HAGANE body ensures durability while keeping the weight manageable at 625 grams. The handle is made of aluminum and designed for right-handed users, offering solid grip and control. With 8+1 stainless steel bearings, the reel runs smoothly, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. Although the reel is priced at a premium and comes with a 1-year warranty, its build quality and performance justify the cost for serious musky enthusiasts. The Shimano Trinidad TN20A delivers a robust, reliable conventional reel for musky trolling, combining power, smoothness, and durability in one package.

The Okuma Komodo SS KDS-364 is a sturdy baitcasting reel designed with durability in mind, making it a good choice for musky fishing where strong gear is essential. It has a 6.4:1 gear ratio, which provides a balanced speed for both retrieving and fighting large fish. The reel holds up to 150 yards of 20-pound braided line, offering ample capacity for the long runs muskies can make. Its drag system is reliable with a maximum drag rated at around 21 pounds, giving you solid control when battling big fish. The reel size is large enough to handle heavy lines and lures commonly used in musky fishing, without feeling too bulky.

The handle features a paddle style made from stainless steel, which is comfortable and sturdy for powerful cranking. The bearings are stainless steel as well, contributing to smooth operation and corrosion resistance. Speaking of corrosion, the reel has a special coating that protects it against rust, which is great if you fish in wet or salty conditions. On the downside, the drag might feel a bit light if you encounter extraordinarily large muskies, and some anglers might prefer a slightly higher gear ratio for faster retrieves. Additionally, while the build is solid, its weight at about 0.68 pounds is moderate—some may want a lighter reel for long fishing sessions.

This reel offers durable materials, good line capacity, and smooth handling, making it a practical and affordable option for anglers targeting muskies who want a reliable baitcasting reel without complicated features.

The Lew's SuperDuty 300 Speed Spool is a solid baitcasting reel designed for left-hand users who need strong, reliable gear for heavier fishing like musky. It features a 6.5:1 gear ratio, offering a good balance between speed and power, helping you retrieve line quickly without sacrificing control during fights with big fish. Its line capacity is generous, holding up to 190 yards of 14-pound monofilament or 150 yards of 65-pound braided line — enough for musky fishing where strong, heavy lines are often required.

This reel stands out with its durable aluminum frame and braid-ready anodized spool, making it tough and resistant to the wear and tear of intense fishing. The carbon fiber drag system delivers a maximum drag of 24 pounds, which is strong enough for musky and similar large species, allowing you to apply solid pressure to control the fish. The handle design includes a 100mm bowed aluminum handle with a comfortable oversized knob, giving you a firm grip and good leverage for powerful cranking.

Smoothness is a key factor here; the reel uses a premium 7-bearing system and solid brass speed gears, along with Lew’s Speed Lube system, making casts and retrieves feel fluid and reducing fatigue during extended use. The multi-setting brake system combining magnetic and centrifugal brakes helps with accurate, hassle-free casting, which is important when targeting precise spots. The reel weighs about 9.2 ounces, which is reasonable for its size but might feel a bit heavier compared to ultra-light models. Its fairly compact size (6" x 5" x 3") balances portability and capability. This reel is a great choice if you want a robust, versatile baitcasting reel for musky fishing that combines strong drag, good line capacity, and smooth operation without being overly complicated.