Fishing reels are the most important part of any angling setup. They’re what you use to catch fish, so it doesn’t matter what fishing rod or line you have. Without a reel, all your efforts are useless.
You can have the best rod in the world, but if your reel’s not good enough, you’re just spinning wheels.
With this, it’s worth investing in a new fishing reel that will last for years and give you peace of mind. Here are the seven most expensive reels that’ll make sure you never miss another big fish again.
Our Top Picks
7 Best Reels to Add to Your Fishing Reel Collection
- Best Expensive Fishing Reel for Saltwater Fishing-Daiwa Saltiga
- Best Expensive Reel for Technical Anglers-PENN International Reel
- Premium Spinning Reel for Saltwater Fishing-Shimano Stella Spinning Reels
- Best Commercial Reel for the Serious Anglers-Lindgren-Pitman
- Best Fishing Reel for Any Setup-Hooker Electric Penn International 80VISW
- Best Trolling Reel for Every Angler-Kristal Fishing XL 651 Dredge Deep Drop Electric Reel
- Best Versatile Reel for All Anglers-Elec-Tra-Mate Tuna Brute Electric Reel
1. Daiwa Saltiga
Best Expensive Fishing Reel for Saltwater Fishing
- MQ Body takes reel design to the next level. The MQ system…
- ALUMINIUM AIR ROTOR: More rigid than standard materials for…
- ABS LONGCAST: Compared to conventional spools, the LC-ABS…
Key Features
- Has a mag drag of up to 55 lbs
- Comes with 13 bearings and a gear ratio of 5.8:1
- Braid Capacity: 330/40, 280/50
The Daiwa SALTIGA is a lead choice for sport anglers as it’s designed to handle the most challenging fishing conditions.
The new reel is made with a monocoque body that eliminates the need for side plates and screws. This feature also makes the reel saltwater resistant and able to house a much larger main gear.
Besides this, the SALTIGA also has an aluminum air rotor, which reduces flex under heavy load. Unlike other reels in the market, this saltwater reel has a smoother ATD drag system for longer-lasting performance.
2. PENN International Reel
Best Expensive Reel for Technical Anglers
- Machined and anodized aluminum body and side plates
- Stainless steel main and pinion gears
- Quick-shift II 2-speed System
Key Features
- Made with machined and anodized aluminum
- Has main and pinion gears made with stainless steel
- Comes with CNC gear technology
Emerge from the saltwater battle victorious with the Penn International 80VISW. With this baitcasting reel, you’ll have the smoothness, power, and adjustability needed to subdue even the fiercest of fish.
Because of its Versa-Strike Adjustable Strike Stop, you can customize the reel’s strike position according to your preferred method.
This reel’s sleek and lightweight design ensures years of flawless operation with its four shielded ball bearings and stainless-steel gears. The Quick-Shift II two-speed system is a lifesaver when fighting a fish, too!
This feature allows you to instantly toggle between high retrieval and low cranking speeds so you can easily adapt during the battle.
3. Shimano Stella Spinning Reels
Premium Spinning Reel for Saltwater Fishing
- Platinum Premier Service Plan
- Hagane Body
- IPX8 Waterproof Body
Key Features
- Has HAGANE gears and full metal body for long-time use
- IPX8 waterproof body
- PowerPRO line capacity
This reel is the perfect choice for anglers who want to land fish that they can only dream about. This reel is made to handle the most aggressive sport-fish in the seas. At just 1.93 pounds, it’s a lightweight but powerful fishing reel for every fishing enthusiast.
What makes this reel so great is its got a wide range of premium features. The Shimano Stella has high precision power.
It also boasts an improved level of technology that gives you the ability to cast at high levels of accuracy. If you are looking for a reel that will last for your entire battle with powerful fish, look no further!
4. Lindgren-Pitman
Best Commercial Reel for the Serious Anglers
Key Features
- Has a pulling power of 150 lbs
- Customizable speed (100-750 ft/min)
- Has an adjustable level winder and quick release hub
This commercial reel is 25% faster on the highest speed setting than most electric reels in the market. But if you’re not up for it, you can slow it to a crawl, thanks to its variable speed feature.
This fishing reel has a digital line counter equipped with a backlight, perfect for night fishing!
Not only that, but it also provides 150 lbs of pulling power at all speeds. It also features a brushless motor and a GFN Composite Spool for long-lasting use!
5. Hooker Electric Penn International 80VISW
Best Fishing Reel for Any Setup
Key Features
- Line winding speed of up to 500 ft/min
- Has line capacity rings
- Equipped with Dura-Drag System
With the Hooker Electric Penn International 80 VISW, you’re in control of your fishing experience! This expensive fishing reel is perfect for big game angling, can be used for any species, and has a line capacity range.
Additionally, this reel is also ideal for those who like to guide the line themselves and hand-crank on that large catch. It also features a 100ft range, 2-button RF remote control for hands-free operation!
With its machined and anodized aluminum body, the Hooker Electric 80 VISW is sure to last you a lifetime. Not only that, but you can also add it to your fishing gear collection because of its sleek design!
6. Kristal Fishing XL 651 Dredge Deep Drop Electric Reel
Best Trolling Reel for Every Angler
Key Features
- Has a maximum drag of 120 lbs
- Line capacity: 6000 feet (150 lb of braided line) or 4500 feet (200 lb braided lines)
- Equipped with an aluminum spool for great drag power
The Kristal Fishing XL 651 Dredge Deep Drop Reel comes with a modular design and interchangeable components. This reel’s motor is protected by an “O” ring seal fuse holder and fuse, perfect for anglers looking to catch more fish!
Additionally, this reel is also an excellent choice for anglers who want to cover a great deal of ground. With fishing depths up to 2500 feet, this reel is capable of catching daytime swordfish.
7. Elec-Tra-Mate Tuna Brute Electric Reel
Best Versatile Reel for All Anglers
Key Features
- Comes with an emergency handle for hand-cranking
- Features a heavy-action fiberglass boom
- Spool: 10” X 4”
Another one of the most expensive reels on the list: the Elec-Tra-Mate Reel. It is the perfect reel for commercial anglers who want the flexibility of switching spools or rods in seconds.
You can use it for fishing with a super braid or wireline or an aluminum dredge/downrigger rod.
The good thing about this reel is that it’s versatile enough so that you can use it for different fishing techniques!
Things to Consider When Buying Fishing Reels
The fishing reel industry gives you many options so that you can choose from different types. These include baitcasting reels, a spinning reel, and even a multiplier trolling fishing reel.
Nonetheless, keep in mind that there are different factors to look for when purchasing a fishing reel. If you’re wondering, here are all the features you should look for in your next fishing reel.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratio is the number of rotations the spool will make in one turn of the reel’s handle. For example, a 5.1:1 gear ratio means the spool will make 5 ½ turns in one handle turn.
For most applications, you want a quick ratio to allow for rapid retrieval of your lure.
Drag
A premium drag system is crucial, especially when angling. If there’s no drag on the line, the line would go out faster and could break. Drag washers need to be quality-made to get the best protection from salt and dirt.
Most modern ones often use a proprietary dura drag material. It is infinitely adjustable, easy to maintain, and won’t slip. But, you can also look for other ones, like a sealed drag system or a lever drag.
Size
The reel size depends on your needs. Most people will find a 3000-size reel smaller than 5000, but it depends on what you need and prefer.
Material
Reel housings are made from different materials, such as aluminum and graphite. They have bearings too, which can be made from a range of other materials, but usually stainless steel.
The reel costs differ depending on how corrosion-resistant the material is and how lightweight it is.
Also, consider a spool material made from aluminum since it won’t crack. It’s also worth finding a reel with a free spool or a ventilated spool.
Bearings
Bearings are an essential part of reels. They enable smooth reel operation, and their quality is more important than quantity.
Most ones have ball bearings, which help reduce friction. Remember to keep your bearings clean and well-oiled to ensure longevity and avoid damage and corrosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do more expensive reels help catch more fish?
It depends on the kind of fish you’re catching. A reel that can withstand the fish you catch is perfect for fly fishing in more common waters. However, if you plan to go deep-sea fishing, it’s worth it to spend money on a higher-quality reel.
Other factors also come into play, including fishing line and rod. All three elements can be important for catching fish.
What is the most expensive reel that you can buy?
The most expensive fishing reel is the Daiwa Dendoh Marine Power Deep Sea Power-Assist Fishing Reel. The starting price of this reel is $3,000, but that doesn’t mean that it’s just for those with enough money to spend.
Start Investing in the Most Expensive Fishing Reels
The best reel is often expensive but worth it, considering how much time and money you will save in the long run. It should be durable and lightweight but still offer a lot of control over your line roller.
Additionally, it should also have smooth drags and a reliable spool shaft to make it easier to catch larger fish.
Whether you’re going on fly fishing trips or angling auctions, this list has got you covered! The list above contains the most expensive reel suggestions that are sure to give you the best reel performance you’ll ever experience.
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