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 PENN INT80VISW International Lever Drag Conventional 2-Speed Reel is a solid choice for saltwater trolling enthusiasts. Its machined and anodized aluminum body and side plates make it highly durable and resistant to corrosion, which is crucial for saltwater environments. The stainless steel main and pinion gears add to its robustness, ensuring long-term reliability.

With a Quick-shift II 2-speed System, this reel allows for easy switching between high and low speeds, providing versatility in different fishing situations. The Dura-Drag System offers a smooth and consistent drag performance, essential for handling big game fish. Additionally, the Versa-strike adjustable strike stop enhances precision and control when setting the hook. The reel's line capacity and maximum drag of 30 pounds make it suitable for heavy-duty fishing.

The reel is quite heavy at 9.03 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users during extended fishing trips. The lack of a line counter might be a downside for those who prefer precise line measurements. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PENN INT80VISW is a top-performing reel, indicating its reliability and user satisfaction.