10 Best Trolling Reels 2026 in the United States

The Avet EXW50/2RH-BL is a solid choice for anglers looking for a durable and reliable trolling reel. Made in the USA from tough 6061-T6 marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel bearings, this reel stands out for its strength and longevity. It’s designed for right-handed users and features an aluminum handle, which feels sturdy and comfortable for extended use.

The reel can hold between 200 to 500 yards of monofilament line rated for 10-30 lbs, giving you good flexibility depending on the fish size you’re targeting. Its maximum drag force is 35 pounds, which should be sufficient for many trolling scenarios though very heavy or large fish might require more drag. The reel’s two-speed gear system helps you adjust your retrieve speed easily, which is useful when trolling different types of baits or depths. While it doesn't have a built-in line counter, its simple and rugged design focuses on performance and durability over extra features.

Weighing 67 ounces, it’s a bit on the heavier side, which is common for high-quality trolling reels but something to consider if you prefer lighter gear. The reel is well-reviewed by users for its toughness and smooth operation, making it a good match for serious fishermen who want a dependable reel without unnecessary bells and whistles.

The Shimano TLD 50 II LRS is designed for serious offshore fishing enthusiasts. One of its standout features is the adjustable 2-speed retrieve, which lets you adapt your retrieval speed depending on the situation, making it easier to target different fish species. With a max drag force of 42 lbs, you’ll find it powerful enough to handle larger catches, while the line capacity of 80 lbs/440 yds for mono adds versatility for various fishing conditions.

The reel's construction from aluminum ensures durability without adding excessive weight, as it weighs in at 57.30 ounces. This can be a significant advantage during long fishing trips when you want to avoid fatigue. The four stainless steel bearings provide smooth operation, and the right-hand orientation is suitable for many anglers.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the gear ratios (3.5:1 for high and 1.7:1 for low) offer versatility, they may take some time to get used to for those new to using dual-speed reels. Additionally, weighing over 3 pounds might be cumbersome for some users who prefer lighter setups. Its ranking in sales (#421 in fishing reels) suggests it's a solid choice but may not be the top pick for every angler. For those keen on trolling, especially in offshore conditions, the Shimano TLD 50 II LRS presents a robust option, balancing performance and ease of use, but it may not cater to everyone’s preferences or needs.

The Abu Garcia C3 Species Special Baitcast Round Fishing Reel is a solid choice for anglers seeking a durable and reliable trolling reel. One of its main strengths is the Carbon Matrix drag system, which offers smooth and consistent drag pressure up to 20 pounds, making it suitable for reeling in larger fish like catfish. The reel features stainless steel ball bearings (3+1 on the 6500 size, 2+1 on the 7000 size) which enhance its performance and durability by providing smooth operation and resistance to corrosion. The 4.1:1 gear ratio is relatively low, allowing for increased torque and power, which is beneficial when targeting bigger fish species. Additionally, the 6-pin centrifugal brake system aids in controlling the cast and reducing backlash, which can be particularly helpful for less experienced users.

Constructed from aluminum, the reel is lightweight yet strong enough to handle heavy usage. The synchronized level wind system ensures even line lay, which is critical for preventing tangles and ensuring smooth retrieves. However, the reel lacks a line counter, which might be a drawback for those who prefer tracking their line depth. The handle design is ergonomic but is only available in a right-hand orientation, potentially limiting its appeal to left-handed users. This reel seems best suited for anglers who fish for larger species and value a robust and reliable setup, but those needing a line counter or left-hand retrieve option may need to look elsewhere.