10 Best Musky Fishing Reels 2025 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 Abu Garcia C3 Species Special Baitcast Round Fishing Reel is designed with musky fishing in mind, offering solid features that appeal to both beginners and experienced anglers. It has a moderate gear ratio of 3.8, which reels line in at a steady pace—ideal for handling large, powerful fish like muskies without being too fast or too slow. The reel supports heavy braided lines commonly used for big fish, making it suitable for long fights. It features a Carbon Matrix drag system that provides smooth, reliable resistance to help prevent line breaks during strong pulls, known for consistency and durability essential in musky fishing.

The reel includes 3 to 4 stainless steel bearings depending on the model size, which help it operate smoothly and reduce wear over time. The aluminum handle offers good strength and a comfortable grip, although it may feel basic compared to higher-end ergonomic designs. The 6-pin centrifugal brake system helps control casting distance and reduces backlash, which is a common issue when casting heavy lures for muskies. Additionally, the synchronized level wind system ensures even line winding on the spool, improving casting and retrieval reliability.

On the downside, the gear ratio of 3.8 may be slow for those preferring faster retrieves, and the 6500 size might feel bulky for users wanting a lighter setup. The reel is right-hand oriented only, limiting usability for left-handed anglers. Some may prefer more bearings for extra smoothness, but this setup is reasonable for its price range. This Abu Garcia model is a dependable baitcasting reel focused on durability and smooth operation, making it a practical option for musky fishing enthusiasts seeking a balance of power and control without complexity or high cost.

The Okuma Komodo SS KDS-471P baitcasting reel is a solid choice for musky fishing, thanks to its strong build and useful features. It has a 7.1:1 gear ratio, which means it can retrieve your line quickly—helpful when you need to bring in large fish like muskies. The reel’s line capacity is quite generous, holding up to 130 yards of 30-pound test line, so you won’t easily run out of line during a fight. It features a powerful drag system rated at 30 pounds, giving you enough control to handle big, strong fish without the line breaking. The reel size is designed to be low profile, making it comfortable to hold for long periods, and the stainless steel power handle feels smooth and sturdy, which adds to the comfort and control when reeling in.

With 8 stainless steel bearings, the reel promises smooth performance and durability, and the corrosion-resistant coating helps protect it from wear, especially in freshwater or light saltwater environments. One downside is that at just over a pound, it’s not the lightest reel available, which might cause some fatigue during very long fishing sessions. Also, while it is built tough, it may not be as specialized as some higher-end reels dedicated solely to musky fishing, but it offers good value for its price. If you want a reliable, versatile baitcasting reel that can handle big fish and is comfortable to use, the Okuma Komodo SS is a dependable option to consider.