Types of Conventional Fishing Reels: Trolling and Jigging Styles

Electric fishing reels are commonly used when fishing deeper than 300 feet deep. The most common recreational fishing done with electric reels is for swordfish, tuna, tilefish, barrelfish, queen snapper, halibut, rockfish, and black cod. When daytime swordfishing, it is common to fish at a depth between 1500 and 2000 feet. After hand cranking heavyweights from over 400 feet several times you will realize that it is time to invest in an electric fishing reel.

Fishing with an electric reel is a productive way to consistently catch fish. For this reason, it is a backup plan for many charter fishing operation in case the offshore or reef bite is not going well. Daytime swordfishing has become the most consistent way to catch swordfish, although it still involves a long boat ride and patience.

Using an electric reel is actually quite easy but does require a supply of power. The line is set to depth the same way it would be without and electric reel. The ascent speed needs to be controlled based on the size of the fish being targeted. When the fishing gear is at a specified distance from the tip of the rod most reels will automatically shut off. At this point, the fish or gear is reeled up using the manual crank handle.

Understanding Electric Reel Power Systems

Most electric reels are powered through one of three methods:

1. Direct Boat Battery Connection: Most common method using a power cord connected to the boat’s 12V or 24V system.
2. Portable Rechargeable Batteries: Some models like the Daiwa Tanacom 750 can connect to small lithium-ion batteries that thread directly into the power cord outlet.
3. Self-Contained Battery Systems: Newer models like the Penn Fathom Electric have built-in battery systems that provide hours of use on a single charge.

The power system you choose should align with your boat setup and fishing style. For extended deep dropping sessions, connecting to the boat’s battery system provides the most reliable power source. For more versatile applications where you might need to move around the boat, portable or self-contained battery options offer greater flexibility.

Types of Electric Fishing Reels

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Swordfish and Big Game Reels

Big game fishing, particularly for swordfish, requires specialized electric reels. The Shimano Tiagra 80 Hooker Electric with autostop is among the most advanced options available. What separates this class of reels is their heavy-duty construction and powerful motors.

Shimano Tiagra 80 Hooker Electric Reel with Autostop

Estimated Price: $5,000

Model 80	Weighs 115.2 oz
Drag 44 pounds	Retrieves 19-37 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 950/80	L-C Braid 2445/100

The Shimano Tiagra 80 Hooker Electric reel with autostop version is the latest and greatest electric fishing reel. Autostop versions for the Tiagra 50 and 130 are available as well. Hooker Electric also makes the autostop version for the Penn International 50, 80, and 130. This Tiagra 80 is the most popular size of Hooker Electric reels sold. The reel alone weighs 7.2 pounds and the motor attachment is additional weight.

There are three standout features of the autostop version. First is the display that allows the reel to automatically stop at a set distance from the rod tip. Second is the levelwind feature. It is very rare to have a levelwind feature on a reel this large because under high force they can bend. This levelwind is heavy duty and can handle the high loads of big game fishing. Finally, the reel can be connected to Bluetooth to control to RPM speed from an iPhone or iPad.

This reel is commonly used for daytime swordfishing. It can also be used to deep drop for tilefish, grouper, snapper, etc. It is a bit large for this purpose but if you have the reel for swordfish you mind as well use it for other purposes as well. For marlin and tuna fishing, this is also a great reel whether it is pulling a large dredge or sending out live baits.

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Penn 50 Hooker Electric Reel with Autostop

Estimated Price: $4,230

Model 50	Weighs 67.0 oz
Drag 45 pounds	Retrieves 15-40 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 780/60	L-C Braid 1810/100

The Penn International 50 Hooker Electric is a reel indeed for trolling or deep drop fishing. This setup uses the Penn 50 reel and adds a non-detachable Hooker Electric motor. The reel speed can be adjusted with the knob on the side of the reel or use Bluetooth connection to control the reel from an iPhone or iPad. The reel itself weighs 67 ounces which is 4.2 pounds. It has a total system weight of around 11 pounds. A retrieval rate of 500 feet per minute can be achieved with 45 pounds of drag using the 2 horsepower motor. It can catch fish at depths greater than 3,000 feet when using an 80-pound braided line.

The two-speed conventional reel can function as a non-powered reel but the motor can not be detached. The size 50 and 80 do have options that allow the motor to be quickly detached if desired but not in the level wind version. Key reel features include 5 stainless steel ball bearings, smooth lever drag, and a large crank handle with good grip.

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Daiwa Tanacom 1000 Electric Fishing Reel

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Model 1000	Weighs 53 oz
Drag 48 pounds	Retrieves 16.5  in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 500/40	L-C Braid 880/80

The Daiwa Tanacom 1000 is probably the most commonly used electric reel. This is because it holds enough line to fish deep and is a reasonable price. The LCD display is in English and can display feet or meters. A Tanacom 1000 English owner manual is available online. It has a levelwind on the reel automatically places the line even on the spool. The reel has a retrieve rate of 426 feet per second and can have a momentary winding power up to 154-pounds.

It comes with a power cord with clips that can connect directly to the battery. The clips can be cut off and wired to any type of plug and socket used on the boat. Marinco makes the most common marine sockets. Extra power cords can be bought with lengths from 5-16 feet.

Key features of the reel include a jigging feature for any depth of water, a large line guide opening, a line counter, and a sealed drag system. The autostop feature has a default setting that will stop the reel at 5 meters. Custom settings allow the rig to be stopped at any pre-set distance from the tip of the rod. Once the reel stops the line can be brought up using the throttle lever or manually turning the reel handle.

The reel has a smooth spool but there is a nub that sticks out of the spool to attach the start of the fishing line. This allows a braided line to be used without slipping on the spool. The video below shows the basic operation of the reel.

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Daiwa 3000 Power-Assist Deep Drop Reel

Estimated Price: $3500

Model 16	Weighs 196 oz
Drag 88 pounds	Retrieves 24.8 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 800/60	L-C Braid 1500/100

The Daiwa 3000 electric is a big reel that is capable of catching the largest fish. It is made with an aluminum body, aluminum spool, stainless steel gears, 14 ball bearings, and stainless steel line guides. There is a more powerful 24-volt version of this reel.

Features of the reel include a levelwind, digital readout of depth, customizable autostop depth, a manual crank option, and a power cord. The reel has sealed electronics and can be washed. In the video below the Daiwa 3000 is used to cath queen snapper while deep dropping.

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Banax Kaigen 1000 Electric Fishing Reel

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Model 1000	Weighs 57.5 oz
Drag 40 pounds	Retrieves 525 ft/min
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 40/490	L-C Braid 875/80

This Banaz Kaigen 1000 is an electric reel similar to the Daiwa Tanacom 1000. The Banax company has been making reels in South Korea since 1973 and in China since 1997. It can retrieve 525 feet of line per minute with a max winding force of 77 pounds. The reel display and instructions are in English.

Features of the reel include a digital display, large throttle knob for speed control, and a manual power hand. The reel is made with a diecast aluminum frame, double anodized aluminum spool, 6 carbon drag washers, and a soft EVA handle knob. The electronics allow for the reel to automatically stop and jig within specific depths. There is also a level wind to automatically keep the line even on the spool.

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Shimano Beast Master 9000 Electric Fishing Reel

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Model 9000	Weighs 53 oz
Drag 55 pounds	Retrieves 35 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 1150/30	L-C Braid 1150/80

The Shimano Beast Master 9000 is a medium-size electric fishing reel. It holds over 3000 feet of 80-pound line and can fish at great depths. Features include 5+1 S A-RB corrosion-resistant ball bearings, cross carbon drag, find dot LCD display, and a Hagane all-metal body.

The heat-free system II helps keep the reel cool to maintain the reel performance all day.  This makes a good reel for trolling, deep dropping, or flying kites. It has a large throttle lever for easy speed adjustments. This reel has similar specifications to the Daiwa Tanacom 1000, and Banax Kaigen 1000 which have English displays. For this reason, I would recommend these reels over the Shimano Beast Master 9000. If you can read Japanese or they make an English display in the future this would be a great reel.

Note: This reel may be a Japan import and comes with a non-English manual and a non-English display. The numbers are normal and the basic function of the reel can likely be figured out. I actaully think the new reels are in English but I am not positve.

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Battery-Powered Electric Reels

Penn Fathom Electric Fishing Reel

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Model 30	Weighs 60  oz
Drag 30  pounds	Retrieves 19 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb)	L-C Braid 745/40
Model 50	Weighs 71 oz
Drag 40 pounds	Retrieves 16 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb)	L-C Braid 1140/50
Model 80	Weighs 84 oz
Drag 40 pounds	Retrieves 16 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb)	L-C Braid 1480/65

The Penn Fathom Electric’s battery system redefines expectations for electric reels. This battery-powered model has revolutionized the electric reel market. The Penn Fathom Electric stands out with nearly 8 hours of continuous use on a single charge, outlasting most competitors by 2-3 hours. Its quick-swap battery design eliminates downtime when power runs low.

What makes battery-powered reels advantageous is their portability. Your boat does not need a dedicated power plug, and the setup can be moved around the boat as needed when fighting fish. The high-contrast LCD displays on these models remain readable even in harsh midday sun, showing battery percentage, depth tracking, and retrieval speed.

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Daiwa Tanacom 750 Electric Fishing Reel

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Model 750	Weighs 44.4 oz
Drag 48 pounds	Retrieves 16.5 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 450/30	L-C Braid 550/65

Note: The drag value is the max drag for the reel.

The Daiwa Tanacom 750 is a medium-sized electric reel. The LCD display is in English. An owner’s manual is provided online and a paper manual may or may not come with the reel. Key features of the reel include automatic stop, preset jigging features, sealed electronics, and a sealed drag system. The reel can wind with power up to a maximum of 140 pounds for brief moments.

The reel can be powered off the boats 12-volt battery or a small rechargeable battery. The battery connects directly to the reel and is not place inside the reel. It hangs off the bottom of the reel. This should stay out of the way but a Daiwa BM air cord can be used to then secure the battery to the rod. Most people connect the reel to the boat battery or a large deep cycle marine battery.

Using a braided line this reel can easily fish at in over 1000 feet of water with a 65-pound line. It works well for many types of fish including tilefish, grouper, rockfish, and halibut. This reel is also great for deep dropping and flying kits when fishing for sailfish. The videos below show how to spool up a Daiwa electric fishing reel.

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Small Stand-Up Electric Reels

Banax Kaigen 150 Small Electric Fishing Reel

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Estimated Price: $400

Model 150	Weighs 15.5 oz
Drag 26 pounds	Retrieves 492 ft/min
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 150/15	L-C Braid 150/50

The Banax Kaigen 150 is a small lightweight electric reel. It comes with a power cord that connects to a 12-volt battery with alligator clips. The reel has a levelwind to automatically keep the line even on the spool. There is an autostop feature that can be set to different depths. The manual handle does not turn when electric power is being applied. However, it can be turned manually.

This a nice small reel that can easily be fished standing up.  It is commonly used for jigging and bottom fishing. When you want to check the bait you can do so quickly and with little work. After hooking a fish you can reel it in by hand or have the reel do most of the work. These are great reels for people with limited strength that love to fish.

Note: This reel may come with a non-English manual and a non-English display. The numbers are normal and the basic functions of the reel can likely be figured out.

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Shimano Force Master 400 Electric Fishing Reel

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Estimated Price: $675

Model 400	Weighs 13.5 oz
Drag 11 pounds	Retrieves 21 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 150/15	L-C Braid 150/50

The Shimano ForceMaster 400 is a small electric reel than can be used for stand up fishing. It can retrieve 600 feet per minute with a maximum force of 103 pounds.

Key features include the Muteki motor, e-Exciting drag noise, single thumb operation, a super free spool, and S-ARB corrosion resistant ball bearings. The reel has two retrieve modes. First, the Raku mode keeps a constant load on the reel. Second is the speed mode which keeps a constant retrieval speed regardless of the load.  It can fish around 200 feet of water with a 50-pound test line. This is a nice small reel that would work well to catch snapper, grouper, fluke, rockfish, and halibut.

Note: This reel is a Japanese import and comes with a non-English manual and a non-English display. The numbers are normal and the basic function of the reel can likely be figured out. The video below provides more information about the Force Master 400.

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Daiwa Tanacom 500 Electric Fishing Reel

Model 500	Weighs 28.2 oz
Drag 33 pounds	Retrieves 22.3 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 100/14	L-C Braid 440/50

The Daiwa Tanacom 500 is a small electric reel that can be used for stand up fishing. This reel can fish up to about 800 feet of water with a 50-pound fishing line. Key features include an English display, English programing, aluminum frame, power cord, and variable speed control.  Here is the English owner’s manual.

Anglers are often looking for small electric fishing reels. For people with arthritis or struggle reeling for extended durations but love fishing, this is a great option. When fishing in deep water reeling up heavy-weights to change baits can be exhausting and take the fun out of fishing. This reel is considered light tackle for electric reels and it works well for tilefish, grouper, black cod, and halibut. The 750 is more powerful and will likely last longer but this is a good reel for people that want or need light fishing gear.

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Daiwa 500 MJ Seaborg Electric Reel

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Model 500	Weighs 34.6 oz
Drag 51 pounds	Retrieves 22.2 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 330/20	L-C Braid 330/65

The Daiwa 500 Seaborg is a small electric fishing reel. It has a Magmax motor that has a magnet that quickly applies torque and power to the reel spool. The Automatic Drag System ADS is a star drag that consists of five carbon fiber washers. This reel can be operated with one hand using the Jog power lever. The reel can be washed. There are also larger versions of this reel called the Seaborg 800 and Seaborg 1200.

Features include 21+1 MAG sealed ball bearings, a brake dial to adjust the decent rate of fishing rigs, an aluminum body, an aluminum spool, autostop mode, jigging functions, and auto speed winding. A power cord is included. The display can switch between Japanise and English.  An English owner’s manual can be found here.

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Daiwa 500 Leobritz Reel

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Model 500	Weighs 28 oz
Drag 33 pounds	Retrieves 459 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 400/30	L-C Braid 546/65

The Daiwa Leobritz S500J is a small electric reel. It can retrieve line at a rate of 459 feet per minute with a max winding force of 143 pounds. The display is in English an the owner’s manual can be found here.

Functions of the reel include auto-stop,  custom pickup speeds, inverse line counter, humming timer, custom jigging ranges, constant speed line retrieval, Fukase mode, and the Fakase Hit alarm which sounds an alarm if there is a bite. There are various beeps and alarms that can be turned on or off depending on preference. It has 7+1 ball bearings and the ADS carbon fiber drag system. This reel is similar to the Daiwa Tanacom 500 but holds more fishing line.

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Daiwa 500 Lille Leo Britz or Blitz

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Estimated Price: $333

Model 500	Weighs 28 oz
Drag 15 pounds	Retrieves 558 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 300/20	L-C Braid 328/60

The Daiwa Lille Leo Britz S500 is a small electric fishing reel. It can retrieve line at 558 feet per minute with a maximum hoisting force of 33 pounds. The small size of this reel makes it popular with people with impairments that might make using a manual reel difficult. Features of the reel include an aluminum spool, power assist, depth memory, automatic stop, and line counter. A power cord with alligator clips come included with the reel.

Note: I could not find an English Manual for this reel. The display is in English and if you no how to operate the reel this is a decent option. Personally I would go with the Daiwa Tanacom 500 with similar specifications and an English user manual.

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Shimano Plemio 3000

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Estimated Price: $400

Model 3000	Weighs 22.4 oz
Drag 22 pounds	Retrieves 25 in/turn
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 328/30	L-C Braid 328/80

The Shimano Plemio 3000 is a small electric fishing reel. It can retrieve line at 575 feet per minute. Weighing only 22.4 ounces this reel can be used for stand up jigging and bottom fishing.

It uses the Raku line retrieve mode which keeps the line at a constant tension. There are also a super slow retrieve mode and an automatic retrieve mode. It has a levelwind to keep place the line evenly on the spool without having to manually work it back and forth.

Note: This reel has an English display but does not come with an English owner’s manual. Since there is only a one-button interface most anglers should be able to figure out how it works without a manual.

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Commercial-Grade Electric Reels

Lindgren Pitman SV-1200 Electric Fishing Reel

Estimated Price: $6,495

Model 1200 12 Volts	Weighs about 20 pounds
Max Pull: 110 Pounds	Speed: 50-400 ft/min
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 1,200/100	L-C Braid 3,000/80
Model 2400 24 Volts	Weighs about 20 pounds
Max Pull: 150 Pounds	Speed: 100-750 ft/min
Line-capacity (yd/lb) 1,200/100	L-C Braid 3,000/80

The Lindgren Pitman SV-1200, S2-1200, and SV-2400 are the latest in heavy-duty commercial fishing reels. Lindgren Pitman reels are commonly used by commercial deep drop fisherman and swordfishing anglers. The downside of these reels is there is not a manual crank handle which many sportfishing anglers prefer to use at certain times.

The WV-1200 retrieves the line at variable speeds from 50-400 feet per minute. It can pull at 110 or more pounds of force at all speeds which is impressive for a 12-volt electric reel. The SV 2400 is 24 volts and can pull 150 pounds of force and has a max speed of 750 feet per minute. These reels have a built-in level wind so the reel does most of the work when retrieving fish or heavy deep drop gear.

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Electric Reel Fishing Equipment

Daiwa Tanacom Dendoh Deep Drop Rod

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Estimated Price	$220
Type	Bend Butt Conventional Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	5 foot 6-inch, 6 foot 6-inch
Power	Medium-Heavy, and Heavy
Action	Fast

The Daiwa Tanacom Dendoh comes in three size configurations. This is a great fishing rod for the Daiwa Tanacom 500-1000 series reels. It is also a good rod for many of the other reels on this list. A heavy-duty bent butt fishing rod is what is almost always used for larger electric fishing reels.

The rod is constructed with unidirectional fiberglass with inner and outer layers of fiberglass which makes a strong blank. It also features a comfortable Powerlift foregrip and anodized aluminum back section. The Alps Aluminum reel seat securely connects the reel to the rod. It has an Alps swivel top tip guide that has dual-axis rotation to help the line stay in the center of the stainless steel roller. The other Seaguides are made of aluminum oxide.

Power Pro Braided Fishing Line

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The type of line used on an electric reel can be monofilament or a braided fishing line. What type of line and pound test depends on the type of fishing. I would say most people use an 80-100 pound braided line of electric reels. This allows for all types of fishing and really deep fishing.

Personally, I think Power Pro Depth-Hunter metered line is the best line for deep dropping but most braided lines will get the job done. Other quality brands include Sufix, Spiderwire, and J-braid. Color options for the Power Pro line include green, high visibility yellow, vermillion red, white, and multicolor. White braid is probably the least visible color for fish to see underwater, while yellow is probably the easiest braid color for people to see above the water. The color of the line is not a huge deal as fluorocarbon leaders are typically used near the lures. Pick your favorite color and it will work to catch fish.

Deep Drop Lead Weight

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Most anglers deep drop with a stick of lead weight or ball of lead weight that weighs between 1 pound and 8 pounds depending on the depth of water and strength of the current. For Swordfishing where it is common to fish 1800 feet down weights between 8 and 12 pounds are typically used. These weights can get lost which can be expensive with lead costing over $4 per pound.

Some anglers make concrete weights when swordfishing to save money but these have a larger diameter and higher drag in the water. Another alternative that I think will actually be better but have not tried yet is to use steel downrigger balls. These have a low drag profile and are made of steel for a reduced cost.

The size of weight really depends on the type of bottom fishing. Fishing the reef in 100 feet of water typically only one or two ounces of weight is needed. When halibut fishing in 350 feet of water a 1-2 pound weight works well. Three pounds is sometimes used in a really strong current but this is significantly harder to reel up to check baits when using non-electric reels. When deep dropping for tilefish and snowy grouper in 400-800 feet of water in Florida a 4-6 pound stick weight is typically used.

Deep Drop Fishing Rigs

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Deep drop rigs are similar to chicken rigs and allow multiple baits to be set on a single line. The end game tackle deep drop rigs have five circle hooks with glow sleeves. These rigs have a 400 pound mainline and 200-pound monofilament connecting to the hooks. Crimps are used to connect the 225 pound rated swivels.

The 10/0-11/0 hooks are relatively small and can be used to can catch snapper, small tilefish, rockfish, and cod. Increasing in size the 11/0-13/0 can be used to catch large tilefish, rosefish, and barrelfish. Finally, the size 14/0-15/0 is used for wreckfish and snowy grouper. The most common bait to use deep dropping is squid. Most types of fish like bonito, ballyhoo, mullet, or barracuda will work. When bottom fishing a good fish finder can be very helpful. It can mark fish, bottom structure, and even determine the bottom’s density. Some fish like the flat soft bottoms and others like hard rocky bottoms.

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Electric Fishing Reel Companies

Daiwa Electric Reels

Daiwa has the largest number of electric reel versions. These reels range in size from small stand up reels like the Tanacom 500 to the large Marine Power 3000. The most recent versions of Daiwa electric reels include the Tanacom 500, Tanacom 750, Tanacom 1000, Seaborg 500, Seaborg 800, Seaborg 1200, Marine Power 12V, and Marine Power 24V. Older versions of Daiwa electric reels include the Leobritz 200, Leobritz 500 Tanacom Bull 750, and Tanacom Bull 1000. These are popular reels for recreational and charter fishermen.

Many Daiwa reels are Japanese imports. Older reels tend to actually have Japanese displays. These reels gained popularity and English displays are now made for most versions of Daiwa reels. English owner’s manuals can be found online for most of the reels.

Shimano Electric Reels

Shimano has several stand-alone electric reel versions. These are the Forcemaster 400, Forcemaster 6000, Forcemaster 9000, BeastMaster A 9000, Beastmaster 9000, and the Shimano Plemio 3000.

The Beastmaster reels have Japanese displays and manuals so they are not very useful to most people in the USA. Even the Forcemaster reels come with Japanese displays but some people still buy them because of their size and performance. If you are just using the basic retrieve function the reels are pretty simple to operate. The Shimano Plemio 3000 does have an English display but does not have an English owner’s manual that I know about.

The best electric reels on the market are the Shimano Tiagra 50, 80, and 130 class reels with a hooker electric motor and autostop. These reels use the conventional Shimano Tiagra but are then retrofit with a 1 horsepower or 2 horsepower electric motor. There is even an option for dual 2 horsepower motors on the 130 class reels. The high-end autostop version has an electronic display, autostop features, and a levelwind to automatically keep the line even on the spool during the retrieve.

Lindgren-Pitman Electric Reels

Lindgren-Pitman has three electric reel versions. These are the Lindgren-Pitman LPS 1200, Pitman LPSV 1200, and the Pitman LPS 2400. The 1200 version is 12 volts and the 2400 version is 24 volts. These reels are commonly used for commercial fishing and can hold 2500 yards of 80-pound braided line.

These reels have about 60 pounds of max drag and can pull about 110 pounds. In the past, these have also been popular for daytime swordfishing but the Hooker Electric 80 class reels seem to be more popular now with charter fishing operations. Likey became the hooker electric reels have a manual crank handle. These Lindgren-Pitman electric reels are top quality but are also quite expensive between $5,000 and 6,500 dollars.

Elec-Tra-Mate Electric Reels

Elec-Tra-Mate makes a variety of electric fishing reels. They have stand-alone commercial-style reels called the Brute 2000 and the Tuna Brute III. These are boom and pully style reels similar to a downrigger.

The 1380-GH electric reel has and large 12-volt or 24-volt motor that can be mounted on a Shimano Tiagra 8oWA, Shimano Tiagra 130, Penn International 80, or Penn International 130.

Elec-Tra-Mate also makes motor mounts like the 940 XP that can hold Penn Senator fishing reels. The 452-PTH is an electric reel that works with the Penn Spinfisher V 4500 spinning reel. This is designed to help people with physical challenges to be able to fish. It has two versions one that can be activated with a push-button and the other is activated with a toggle switch.

Another interesting Electric reel is the 570T and 830-T Turn-A-Mate Drive. This has reel crankies that fit onto most large Shimano Tiagra and Penn Internationa reels. The motorized reel is a large electric motor placed under a large handle. This is placed on the handle of a conventional fishing reel. The reel crankie fits over the handle knob and turns the entire handle. Most anglers do not use this when fighting fish but it is a great way to retrieve gear when checking baits. This is commonly used for deep dropping and swordfishing. There are also reel adapters sold to work with a cordless drill.

Hooker Electric Reels

Hooker Electric reels are becoming the most popular top quality reel on the market. The Shimano Tiagra 20 and 30 are designed for kite fishing and can retrieve 1000 feet of line per minute with a 1 horsepower motor. Versions of the Shimano Tiagra 50 and 80 are made with quick detachable motors. This is nice because the motor can be taken off to quickly move the reel around the boat.

The Hooker Electric autostop reels have a digital display to allow the reel to stop at a specified depth. This makes it so the angler can focus on other tasks while the reel is bringing up the gear from deep depths. These reels also have a levelwind so the line is evenly placed on the spool without having to guide it back and forth with your hand. The autostop version is available on the Shimano Tiagra 50, Shimano Tiagra 80, Shimano Tiagra 130, Penn International 30, Penn International 50, Penn International80, and Penn International 130.

The Bandit Reel is a commercial fishing reel made by Hooker Electric. It has a 4 horsepower brushless electric motor with variable speed control. This reel can fish depths over 15,000 feet even when using a monofilament fishing line.

Kristal Fishing Electric Reels

Kristal Fishing reels are large electric reels that are most commonly used as deep drop reels. Reel models include the XL 621, XL 651, and XL 655. These also come in versions with a manual override. This allows the reel to be retrieved with a manual crank handle. Prices for the reel range for around $1,550 to $3,360. These reels are most similar to the Lindgren-Pitman reels but the manual handle option is a nice additional feature if using the reel in a sportfishing setting.

Fish Winch Electric Reels

Fish Winch is a company that makes mounts with motors than can fit a large number of conventional reels and even spinning reels. The Fish Winch 2.0 has 12 different bracket mounts that fit over 225 different models of Penn, Shimano, Daiwa, and Avet reels. It is powered with a 12-volt motor and retrieves line between 314 and 532 feet per minute depending on which reel it is used with. The Fish Winch 2.0 is priced at a reasonable 350 dollars. When installing the motor onto the reel the handle is removed. This is the major drawback of this style of electric reel. Many sportfishing angles want to be able to turn the handle when actually fighting the fish.

The Fish Winch commercial has a larger more powerful motor than the 2.0 version. It has reel drives and mounting brackets that can fit 99 different models of reels from 50 class reels all the way to 130 class reels.

Electric spinning reel options include the Fish Winch 2500 and Fish Winch 4000. The 2500 version fits on the Shimano Syncopate SC2500FG. There are 80 and 90 models that have retrieve speeds of 3.3 and 4.1 feet per second. The 4000 version fits on the Shimano Syncopate SC4000FG. There are 80 and 95 models that have retrieve speeds of 3.7 and 4.5 feet per second.

Deep Drop Commercial Electric Reels

ProFisher is a large commercial-style electric fishing reel. Deep Drop commercial also makes the fishing reel pro which is a pully style electric reel similar to the Hooker Electric bandit. The company also makes arm and pully mount reels to pull traps. The Belitronic BJ5000 Jigging Machine is a commercial electric reel that gets mounted on an arm and pully stand. These have been used for many years in the commercial fishing industry to catch large bottom fish.

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Common Questions about Electric Fishing Reels

Can you use a monofilament line on an electric reel? 

Monofilament line can be used if there is a dacron or brand as a backing line. This is because the reel can get hot and melt a monofilament line. Most people spool electric reels with 100 percent braided line. This allows for a high capacity of the highest strength line to be added for fishing really deep. If the low visibility and stretch characteristics of a monofilament line are desired, a monofilament line can be placed over the dacron backing line.

Another reason adding dacron or braided line as a backing material is that it lasts longer. The backing can be left for several seasons while the monofilament line is typically changed every year.

What is the best electric fishing reel? 

The best electric reel depends on what type of fish is being targeted and the depth that fish are being targeted. For large deep drop fishing reels, the Hooker Electric with autostop are considered the best reels by many anglers. These use Penn International or Shimano Tiagra reels that are in the 50, 180, or 130 class. The motors are 1 horsepower, 2 horsepower, or 4 horsepower. These reels still have the functionality of non-electric reels with a manual crank handle. However, the handle only turns the reel in low gear. These reels can be used to catch tuna, marlin, wahoo, and most commonly swordfish.

For recreational fishermen that tend to have a smaller operating budget, the Daiwa Tanacom 1000 is a good reel. It is capable of deep dropping over 1500 feet using an 80-pound braided line. If a small reel for stand up fishing is desired the Banax Kaigen 150 and Daiwa’s Tanacom 500 are quality lightweight electric reels.

Are their electric spinning reels? 

Yes, there are in fact electric spinning reels. These reels include the Elec-Tra-Mate 940 XP, Fish Winch 2500, and Fish Winch 4000. The 940 XP is integrated with the Penn Spinfisher V 4500. A Shimano Syncopate SC2500FG and SC4000FG are used with the Fish Winch models.

These are modified spinning reels and the handle on the reel is removed and replaced with the electric motor. This means that you can not use both electric power and a manual turn handle. These reels are not intended to be used by the average angler. However, if it is difficult to use a manual spinning reel an electric spinning reel is a great way to fish.

How do you use an electric fishing reel?

Most electric fishing reels are conventional reels that are not used for casting. To send down a fishing rig it is done the same way as a manual reel. The bail is set to free spool or a low drag setting and the fishing rig is brought to the intended depth. When a fish bites or the line needs to be brought up a button on the reel is pushed or a lever is flipped. This applied power to the spool and the line should start to ascend. The drag on the reel is set and the spool can still turn in reverse based on the force exerted on the line. Some reels have a levelwind and place the line evenly on the spool automatically. Other reels require the angler to guide the line back and forth.

A properly programmed electric reel that has a levelwind will bring a fish from the bottom all the way to a pre-programmed stop depth with the autostop function. When fishing for large fish many anglers like to manually reel in the fish and only use the electric reel to bring up heavyweights when checking baits. Most electric reels have variable speeds that can be adjusted with a knob or lever. More advanced features on an electric reel will actually jig baits between certain depths.

Electric reels need a power source. Most reels are wired to the boat’s primary battery supply. There are smaller rechargeable batteries that can connect directly to some reels. Using an electric reel is actually quite easy once it is setup. Properly wiring the boat and spooling the reel requires some upfront work. However, having an electric really is really nice to have when fishing in deep water.

Do commercial fishermen use electric fishing reels?

Yes, some commercial fisherman uses electric reels. Mostly for bottom fishing though. It is more common for commercial fishermen to set long lines and skates that are brought up using hydraulic reels. Examples of electric fishing reels that are used for commercial fishing are Lindgren-Pitman, Elec-Tra-Mate Tuna Brute III, Hooker Electric Bandit, and Drop Drop Commercial’s Belitronic BJ5000 Jigging Machine.

Are their rechargeable batteries for electric fishing reels?  

There are small Lithium-Ion batteries for some electric fishing reels like the Daiwa Tanacom 750. The battery can be threaded directly into the power cord outlet. Most people that use an electric reel have larger deep-cycle marine batteries. These can be the ones for the boat engine or a separate battery. Since most electric reels can also be used with a manual crank handle, when the fish comes near the boat the reel can be turned off and unplugged to allow more freedom to move about the boat.

How expensive are electric fishing reels?

Electric fishing reels range in price from around $300 to around $8,750. This is because there are many different size electric reels with different features based on the angler’s need and budget. The most expensive reel is the Lindgren-Pitman SV-2400 which is mostly used for commercial fishing.

For recreation fishermen, the most expensive reels are bought by anglers who fish for swordfish, large tuna, or marlin. A popular high-quality reel is the Hooker Electric with Penn or Shimano 30-130 class reels that range in price from about $3,600 – $6,000. The Daiwa Tanancom reels are good reels for anglers that want to spend around $600 for the reel. There are additional expenses when buying an electric reel such as a large rod, and lots of fishing line.

Which companies make electric fishing reels? 

The companies that make electric fishing reels include Daiwa, Shimano, Hooker Electric, Elec-Tra-Mate, Lindgren-Pitman, Kristal Fishing, Fish Winch, Deep Drop Commercial, Miya Epoch, and Dolphin Electreel Whisenhunt. Reels from Avet and Penn are often integrated with motors and mounts to work as electric reels. Electric reels come in all sizes from small spinning reels all the way up to 130 class conventional reels.

What is the best electric halibut reel?

The best electric reel for halibut is the Tanacom 1000. This reel is large enough to easily bring up three pounds weights. When a fish actually bites the halibut can be reeled in manually or under electric power. If the goal is lightweight stand up fishing the Tanacom 500 and 750 would also be good options.

Banax Kaigen and Shimano also make similar-sized reels that are good for halibut fishing. Personally though when halibut fishing in under 400 feet of water I like to use manual reels. Especially when running charters. It makes the angler have to work for the catch. There are times where an angler has mobility issues and having an electric reel on the bout would be helpful.

What is the best electric reel for kite fishing?

The best electric reels for kite fishing are the Shimano Tiagra 20 and Daiwa Tanacom 1000. This Hooker Electric reel has a retrieval speed of 1000 feet per minute and can pull with 40 pounds of force. It is a great reel for kite fishing. The only issue is the reel does not have an autostop. Most of the time the anger is watching the reel but it is nice to have the autostop as fishing frequently has distractions that require attention in more than one place. The Tanacom 1000 has a line retrieve rate of 426 feet per second.

What is the smallest Electric Fishing Reel?

The smallest electric fishing reel is the Fish Winch 2500 which weights 6.2 ounces including the lithium battery. This is a small spinning reel. The smallest and lightest conventional electric reel is the Shimano ForceMaster 400 which weighs 13.5 ounces. A close third is the Banax Kaigen 150 that weighs 15.5 ounces. The most popular small reel is the Tanacom 500 which weighs 28.2 but is capable of fishing for large fish in deeper water.

Having the proper fishing rod allows for fish both big and small to be caught in a fun and safe way. The three most common rod types are spinning rods, baitcasting rods, and conventional trolling rods. The type of rod has to match the type of reel. The rod’s size and strength should match the size of the fish being targeted. Using light tackle is a fun way to catch smaller fish, and heavy tackle is needed when catching large fish. It is also important to select a rod that allows for far casting, controlled jigging, or for lures to be trolled behind the boat.

Picking the right fishing rod is critical to success on the water. Even if the only way you plan to catch fish is with a worm and bobber, the wrong pole will not allow it to be cast far out and will likely result in fewer fish being caught. There are many misconceptions about the materials used in rod construction and the rod’s power and action ratings.

In this article, I will share insights on the most effective rod types for both freshwater and saltwater applications. When evaluating rods, pay close attention to the type of rod, number of pieces, length, power rating, action rating, and construction materials.

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Freshwater Spinning Rods

I grew up using freshwater spinning rods to catch bass, trout, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. This type of rod is very easy to use and is a fun way to fish. Spinning rods allow light lures to be cast far out and with decent accuracy. Having a sensitive rod allows for bites to be felt and a good hookset to be made. A good rod should last a few years, and the most common issue is the eyes of the rods breaking with heavy use. My preferred rod length is 6-foot to 7-foot for bass fishing. I typically get a 6.5-foot spinning rod. A longer rod allows for further casting, but a shorter rod is a bit easier to manage and easier when landing the fish.

Fenwick HMG Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$100-$160
Type	Freshwater or Saltwater Spinning Rod
Construction	One or Two-Piece
Length	6-foot to 7-foot.
Power	Ultra Light to Med Heavy
Action	Fast, Moderate, Moderate fast

The Fenwick HMG is versatile from panfish to small tarpon. The HMG was the world’s first fully graphite rod 45 years ago, and now it is redesigned with carbon bound blanks spiraled with Carbon thread for improved strength and durability. It has a sea-guide reel seat with a locking design that securely seats almost any reel. The Fuji line guides have Alconite inserts that hold up well during saltwater use and work great with braided and monofilament lines.

The premium-grade cork handles are beautiful on this rod, and Fenwick makes some of the best looking cork grips around on all of their rods. There is a wide range of power available in these rods make them applicable for all kinds of fishing. The actions, too, are finely tuned. These rods are a joy to use from catching trout to snook. For the price, this is a good value, and the high performance and durability in them might convince you to get a few more.

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Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$50-$60
Type	Freshwater or Saltwater Spinning Rod
Construction	One or Two-Piece
Length	4-foot 6 inches to 7-Foot 6 inches
Power	Ultra Light to Med Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast, Fast, X-Fast

The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod series are durable rods that can be used for freshwater or saltwater fishing. The eyes on the rod are all metal and do not have ceramic inserts. This makes them more durable but can cause a braided line to fray over time. For this reason, the rod is great only when the plan is to use a monofilament line. A braided line will work most of the time without issue just pay attention if the line starts to fray as the metal eyes might have developed a sharp edge.

The rod has 35 percent more graphite which makes it strong, lightweight, and sensitive. It has premium cork handles which makes it look and feel great. The variety of rod lengths, powers, and actions means it fits many fishing styles. Durability is the reason why Ugly Stick rods are so popular and this rod has a 7-year limited warranty.

The older Ugly Stik’s being so strong were naturally heavier than most other rods, and that’s one reason you don’t see many tournament anglers using them. Cork handles are great for high sensitivity to allow for small bites to be felt through the rod. The longer pole lengths are advertised as saltwater applicable, but large saltwater reels might not fit into the reel seats. If you want a rod that is built to last and still has high sensitivity, this is a good option.

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Ultralight Rods

Being a successful angler involves knowing exactly what gear to use and how to best incorporate each piece of equipment into your overall fishing strategy. If you plan to go after smaller species of fish, using an ultralight spinning reel is a wise and productive decision that can make your efforts pay off in a way that helps you land more fish.

Using a larger, heavier rod for pitching small lures puts anglers at a significant disadvantage as you’ll only be able to cast them a short distance. A quality ultralight rod will have just the right action and power to launch smaller baits and lures much farther and will also help you be more accurate in your casts.

Ultralight rods might seem to be relatively simple as they are much smaller in size when compared to heavier baitcasting reels or sturdy spinning reels. Finding the right kind of ultralight rod will take a bit more research, especially if you’re largely unfamiliar with ultralight rods and reels. It’s important to take into account what kind of lures you plan to throw with your rod, as well as the type of game fish species you intend to catch.

When catching fish under 3 pounds it is often more fun to be using a lightweight setup. This is true for both adults and kids. Using light tackle makes lading the fish a bit more challenging but also more fun. Also using light ling help catch more fish especially leader-shy fish like trout and snapper.

St Croix Triumph Ultralight Rods

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Estimated Price	$100-$125
Construction	Two-piece
Length	5’, 5’6″
Power	Ultralight
Action	Moderate, Fast

As one of the most high-quality ultralight rod models made by the St. Croix brand, the Triumph rod line is one of exceptional durability and super lightweight feel and performance. Made with the brand’s super high-quality SCII carbon material, these rods are made to have an extra level of toughness and sensitivity that truly sets them apart from the competition within the fishing industry.

Crafted with high-performance slim aluminum-oxide guides the rod has a sleek, black-framed appearance. Anglers will appreciate that St. Croix has thought to include high-quality reel seats along with a premium cork handle for outstanding sensitivity.

This product comes with St. Croix’s 5-year warranty that covers any type of problem imaginable which might go wrong. Anglers have praised the St. Croix brand for its incredible toughness in the face of a number of different scenarios and situations where large game fish species might normally destroy a rod.

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Freshwater Baitcasting Rods

St. Croix Mojo Bass Baitcasting Rod

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Estimated Price	$145-$165
Type	Baitcasting Rod
Construction	One or Two-Piece
Length	6’8″, 7′, 7’1″, 7’4″, 7’5″, 7’6″, 7’10”, 7’11”
Power	Med, Med Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast, Fast, and X-Fast

The St. Croix Mojo Bass is a top-quality baitcasting rod used mostly for freshwater bass fishing. It comes in one-piece and two-piece versions with power and rod tip actions for every type of lure and style of fishing. If you do not know exactly what rod you want a 7-foot medium-heavy power with fast tip action is a great all-around bass fishing rod. There are rods that allow for delicate casting of light lures and rod stiff enough to cast heavy Alabama or umbrella rigs.

The rod is made of graphite and has aluminum-oxide insets in the eyes. This makes it a good rod to use with monofilament or braided lines. Other features include a hook ring near the handle and a quality cork handle. It might seem expensive for a freshwater rod but you are sure to get years of use out of it since it has a 5-year limited warranty. If you do a lot of fishing with a baitcasting reel this is a great rod to help make the most out of your time on the water.

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Abu Garcia Veritas Baitcasting Rod

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Estimated Price	$100- $150
Type	Baitcasting Rod
Construction	One or Two-Piece
Length	6’6″, 6’9″, 6’10”, 7’3″, 7’11”
Power	Medium Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast, Fast

Abu Garcia Veritas baitcasting rods are made in 30-Ton graphite blanks with SubLayer Armor, a composite that helps increase the strength while decreasing weight. The baitcasting reel seat tightens from the bottom on the exposed blank creating a secure connection with great sensitivity. Titanium alloy line guides with Zirconium inserts are durable and light, while the ROCS guide train helps to cast lighter lures further. High-density EVA grips feel good and give great control.

The Veritas paired with the Abu Garcia Black Max reel makes an excellent mid-level setup. This would also make a great first baitcasting rod. Veritas rods are a workhorse and have good sensitivity and power for pitching jigs, dragging worms, chunking frogs, or the deepest cover style of fishing. It is a little pricey for an entry-level, and there are rods not much more expensive with better sensitivity and hook setting power, but this rod will last a long time if taken care of.

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Saltwater Spinning Rods

Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$80
Type	Saltwater Spinning Rod
Construction	One-Piece
Length	6-foot 6 inches to and 7-foot
Power	Moderate
Action	Medium, Medium Heavy, Heavy

The Ugly Stick Tiger Elite is a good mid-size saltwater spinning reel. While the one-piece stainless steel guides are fairly corrosion-resistant, the biggest problem comes from the damage they might take from braided lines. Thin braided lines can leave grooves in the eyes which can eventually fray and cut your fishing line. So this is another rod that is good to use with a monofilament fishing line. Ugly Stik likely uses the stainless eyes due to the durability and elimination of the inserters coming resulting in a broken rod. However, with the popularity of braided lines, I am surprised the rod does not and ceramic inserts.

I know a lot of people who really enjoy fishing with the Ugly Stik brand, and I have seen them hold up to some serious use. The action on this particular model is designed for jetty and plug fishing, but it works pretty well in different settings and styles, like pulling up big cats from freshwater lakes and streams. Shakespeare, who makes the Ugly Stik, put some thought into being able to market this pole as very multi-species applicable so it will work for a wide range and styles of fishing.

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Ugly Stik Bigwater Saltwater Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$62-$150
Type	Spinning Rod, Conventional Rod
Construction	One-Piece or Two-Piece
Length	6′, 7’, 8′, 9′, 10′, 11′, and 12
Power	Medium, Medium-Heavy, and Heavy

The Ugly Stick Bigwater comes in rod variations for all types of Fishing. For spinning rods one-piece and two-piece rods come in lengths from 6-foot to 12 foot. Bass Pros Shops also has Bigwater conventional rods and Bigwater stand up conventional rod with roller line guides for big game trolling reels. This allows a rod variation for all types of saltwater fishing reels.

The latest Bigwater series has yellow and black rods. This rod is made with Ugly Stik’s Clear Tip technology for added toughness and boasts a 7-year warranty. It’s made with a combination of graphite and fiberglass to be strong, but still offer the sensitivity you need to feel subtle bites.

The rod is made with Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides that are made to withstand extreme amounts of pressure and prevent pop-outs that can cause you to lose fish. However, these can fray braided line but is not normally an issue. It’s available in a variety of different sizes ranging from 6 feet to 12 feet in length. The Ugly Stik Bigwater is a great saltwater fishing rod when using a monofilament line. Ugly Stik developed a reputation decades ago for making rods that were virtually indestructible. The rods have changed over the years but the concept of producing the toughest rods on the planet remains part of the Ugly Stik philosophy.

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Penn Carnage III Saltwater Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$200-$240
Type	Spinning Rod
Construction	One and Two-Piece
Length	7’, 7’6
Power	Medium Light, Medium, Medium-Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate

The Penn brand name is synonymous with saltwater fishing and has been for nearly a century. For anglers who are willing to invest a more sizable amount of money into their tackle, it’s hard to find a better rod than the Penn Carnage III Spinning Rod. Made to catch the largest trophy game fish, this rod is designed to be used with braided line and is capable of withstanding the usual strain associated with braid. Their is also a Penn Carnage III jigging rod that is shorter for stand up jig fishing. There is a Penn Carnage III surf fishing rods which have longer lengths for further casting.

Crafted with Penn’s new SLS3 blank construction, this rod offers a slim profile that’s incredibly strong. It features Fuji K guides coupled with Alconite inserts for unwavering toughness and a reinforced Pac Bay aluminum reel seat.

Anglers will appreciate the Penn Carnage II Spinning Rod’s non-slip handle and optional aluminum or rubber gimbal. This is arguably the best saltwater fishing rod on the market today, but the higher price might turn some novice anglers away.

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Ugly Stik GX2 Saltwater Spinning Rod

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Estimated Price	$40-$50
Type	Saltwater Spinning Rod
Construction	One or Two-Piece
Length	5 Foot to 9 Foot
Power	Light to Heavy
Action	Slow to Extra Fast

The Ugle Stick GX2 is a spinning rod made for saltwater fishing. It has stainless steel eyes without inserts which can cause a braided line to fray over time. For this reason, it is recommended to use a monofilament line with this rod. A braided line will work but the braid may dig into the steel over time which can cause rough-surfaces that cause the line fray.

Ugly Stik is a legendary brand that still holds up to the hype in its modern GX2 form. The strength of these rods are famous and that has not been lost. The GX2 has found a balance between sensitivity and durability, combining graphite with fiberglass for overall better performance. With comfortable EVA grips and two-piece construction, it is easy to handle and transport. The clear tip end responds well to any small nibble, and the stainless steel guides fight off rust and corrosion.

The mass-production of the Ugly Stik comes with pros and cons. The pros are that this rod fits into several different fishing styles and techniques, in both fresh and saltwater applications. The modest price adds to its value. The biggest con is the stainless steel eyes as discussed. If there is any issue the rod does come with a 7-year warranty which can help take away any worries.

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Saltwater Conventional Rods

Penn Ally Saltwater Trolling Rods

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Estimated Price	$120-$180
Type	Conventional Rod
Construction	One-Piece, Two-Piece
Length	5’6, 6’6
Power	Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast

Skilled anglers all over the world trust in Penn rods as they have a reputation for dependability and performance. The Penn Ally Trolling Rod is one of the best trolling rods to use with big conventional reels.

What rods you will get depends on length, one-piece or two-piece configuration, and power rating. Some will have bent butts and some will have roller guides. The two-piece rod versions will have a bent butt and roller guides. The 50-100 power rating 6-foot rod should also come with roller guides. Other rod sizes will likely come with guides with aluminum oxide inserts. These are heavy-duty rods and are a great choice for offshore fishing.

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Penn Rampage Saltwater Jigging Rod

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Estimated Price	$60-$80
Type	Conventional Rod
Construction	One-Piece
Length	5’8, 6’2, 6’6
Power	Medium, Medium Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast

It is imperative for jigging rods to have just the right amount of action in order to fully utilize the lure’s capabilities. The Penn Rampage jigging rod is a great choice for anglers who want a high-quality jigging rod that is relatively affordable compared to some of the premium models that are currently on the market.

This rod is perfect for vertical jigging, but can also function in a variety of other purposes as it is both lightweight and strong. Made from a one-piece graphite composite blank material, the Penn Rampage utilizes Fuji aluminum oxide guides and a high-quality, heavy-duty reel seat to combine for the total package when it comes to a jigging setup.

It also offers a Torque foregrip and rubberized gimbal to ensure comfort and stability when reeling in heavy catches. Anglers can use either monofilament or braided line on the Rampage. This is a highly-rated rod that is worth considering for both novice anglers and experts.

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Okuma Downrigger Trolling Rods

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Estimated Price	$30-$60
Type	Conventional Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	7’6, 8’, 8’6, 9’, 10’, 10’6
Power	Medium Light, Medium
Action	Slow, Moderate, Moderate Fast

Okuma’s Classic Pro GLT Trolling Rods are specially designed for use with downriggers and other trolling methods. Made with a tough, yet sensitive fiberglass blank construction, this rod is a good pick for anglers of all skill levels. It offers Fuji-style up-locking reel seats and heavy-duty stainless steel guides that are made to withstand high amounts of pressure. These are great salmon trolling rods.

Okuma is well-known for producing quality rods that are surprisingly affordable for any angler. For those who rely on downriggers to produce bites, this is an ideal choice among other rods on the market. It’s crafted with an EVA foam grip for added comfort and a triangular foregrip to help provide extra control over the rod. This rod is backed with Okuma’s one-year warranty and is a popular choice for recreational anglers.

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Big Game Trolling Rods

Penn Ally Trolling Rods

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Estimated Price	$150 – $180
Type	Big Game Trolling Rod
Construction	One-Piece
Length	6-Foot
Power	Med Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate, Moderate Fast

These Penn’s Ally series are the best trolling rods for offshore fishing.  There are straight butt and bend butt options that both have high strength and durability. With a tubular glass blank and solid glass tip you can catch big game fish like mahi-mahi, tuna, sharks, wahoo, and marlin without worrying about your rod breaking. This rod is made for 30 class to 80 class size conventional reels.

The Fuji roller guides with aluminum oxide insert greatly reduce strain on your line. This allows a reel with quality drag to work properly and provide consistent line tension. An aluminum gimbal and reel seat gives piece-of-mind from corrosion resistance and that everything will be firmly planted during the fight. EVA grips are great for comfort and grip, as well as resistance against salt and sun. For a quality big game rod, it is worth the price and is a great option for someone looking for a rod to go with a big conventional reel.

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Fiblink Saltwater Big Game Rod

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Estimated Price	$54-$72
Type	Spinning Rod
Construction	One-Piece
Length	5’1
Power	Heavy

The Fiblink Saltwater Big Game Rod is a good option for anglers who want a quality heavy-duty rod that doesn’t have the hefty price tag that’s common with premium brand names. This rod is built for power as its short and thick frame is made to withstand the toughest fights on the ocean.

With features like a heavy-duty roller guide that’s aimed at minimizing strain on both the angler and the line itself, it’s easy to see why this is a highly-rated product. Made of one-piece tubular E-glass composite material, Fiblink has designed this rod to handle extreme amounts of force. With an aluminum alloy reel seat and aluminum gimbal butt cap, this rod is built for toughness. This model is surprisingly lightweight and covered by Fiblink’s one-year warranty, making it a great choice for anglers of all skill levels.

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Fiblink Bent Butt Saltwater Fishing Rod

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Estimated Price	$71-$210
Type	Conventional Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	5’, 5’6, 6’, 7’
Power	Heavy

Saltwater fishing involves fighting some of the largest fish species in the world, which can be physically challenging for any angler. Using a bent butt fishing rod helps to alleviate the amount of strain on your body and allows you to focus on reeling in your catch. The Fiblink Bent Butt Rod is a great product for anglers looking to get their hands on a relatively inexpensive bent butt rod for their boat. It will work with a large conventional reel or electric reel.

Made of solid E-glass graphite composite material, this rod is incredibly strong and able to provide good leverage for pulling against the big fish such as tuna, wahoo, sharks, marlin, and swordfish. It features high-quality roller guides that help alleviate the stress caused by heavy pressure and keep your line from breaking. With an aluminum alloy reel seat and bent butt non-slip handle, this rod is ideal for trolling or deep dropping offshore.

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Xcaliber Big Game Trolling Rod

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Estimated Price	$195
Type	Conventional Rod
Construction	One-Piece
Length	6’
Power	Heavy

Xcaliber Marine is one of the top brands in the saltwater fishing industry and their rods are commonly used by professionals and amateurs alike. The Xcaliber big game rod is designed to perform at the highest level for serious anglers who rely on their tackle to land catches that turn into big paydays.

This rod is constructed from solid E-glass blank material that’s designed to be incredibly tough. It also features roller guides with quality Teflon-coated bearings made with stainless steel. The unique roller design has deep slots that provide better knot clearance than other brands. Anglers will also appreciate the rod’s gimbal aluminum butt. This Xcaliber rod is backed by the company’s 5-year warranty which means that it should last for many fishing seasons.

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Daiwa Rod For Big Game Electric Reel

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Estimated Price	$200
Type	Bent Butt Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	5’6, 6’6
Power	Medium Heavy, Heavy, Extra Heavy
Action	Fast

Having the best possible tackle is essential to success in saltwater fishing. The Daiwa Tancom Dendoh is a rod that is designed to be paired with the latest in Daiwa electric reels. This rod is made with the brand’s Glatech Blank Construction which combines uni-directional fiberglass with multiple layers of graphite material for an incredibly strong product.

It also comes with Daiwa’s Powerlift Grip that is designed to help anglers maintain their hold on the rod and have greater control over powerful fish. With Alps Swivel Tip Top Guides, it’s clear that this rod is designed to the highest standard and is made for catching giant fish. It also includes SeaGuide aluminum oxide ring guides and an anodized aluminum butt end with an aluminum reel seat. With such high-quality components and a lifetime warranty, it’s no question that this is a great rod to use. It works with electric reels or large conventional reels.

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Surf Fishing Rods

Surf fishing is unlike any other form of angling as it offers the opportunity to catch a huge variety of fish from the beach or shoreline of any coastal area. Fishing in the surf is not as easy as it might appear and there are some very specific techniques and methods used by the most skilled anglers to land fish in higher numbers and bigger sizes.

While it may appear to be one of the most simple forms of angling, surf fishing actually tests the skill level of even the most experienced fishing enthusiast. Surf fishing is relatively similar all over the world and many of the same basic principles are used on both major United States coastlines, as well as any tropical areas and other shorelines.

Surf fishing requires anglers to cast their bait out as far as possible. Ideally, casts are past the crashing waves when fishing on a beach. Doing so will usually put the bait in a better position closer to the strike zone. This will present anglers with the possibility to catch all kinds of small or large game fish species.

Becoming skilled and productive when it comes to surf fishing requires a considerable amount of research and practice. Having the right tools at your disposal will greatly enhance your efforts along the way. There are many different surf fishing rods and this article provides a detailed list of high quality and average quality surf fishing rods.

Penn Squadron III Surf Fishing Rod

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Estimated Price	$60
Type	Surf Spinning Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	9, 10, 11, and 12 Foot
Power	Medium, Medium Heavy, Heavy
Action	Moderate Fast

The Penn Squadron III surf fishing rod makes a strong case for being the best overall surf fishing rod. It has an affordable price and all-around great features. This rod is versatile and can be used to catch a wide variety of different game fish species using a variety of different rigs and lures. The graphite composite blank rod construction is lightweight and also gives anglers a moderate fast action. This allows for good hook sets and the ability to quickly feel bites.

Penn’s latest Squadron surf fishing rod model is built to be nearly indestructible. It features one-piece stainless steel Dura-Guides that are made to withstand the toughest of fights against anything you happen to hook on the shoreline. As surf fishing anglers know, fighting a 100-pound shark is not at all uncommon and having a rod that’s capable of withstanding such an intense amount of force is crucial.

The handle’s comfortable shrink tube and EVA grips help to provide a reinforced feel that makes sure your rod won’t easily slip out of your grasp. Even when being pulled by some of the heaviest fish you can catch in the surf. As with most other Penn products, this rod has a stately appearance that is as attractive as it is functional.

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Penn Carnage III Surf Fishing Rod

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Estimated Price	$230-$240
Type	Surf Spinning Rod
Construction	Two-Piece
Length	10, and 11 Foot
Power	Medium, Medium-Heavy
Action	Moderately Fast

The Penn Carnage III surf fishing rod is a new high end rod for designed for casting weights up to 6 ounces. If you are looking for a top quality rod that will last for many seasons this is a great option.

This rod is made with Fuji reel skeleton and Fuji reel seats that are known for their extreme levels of toughness and durability. That is absolutely essential if you plan on doing a significant amount of surf fishing. These components might not seem as important as other areas of the rod, but you should expect to be putting a great deal of strain on the reel and reel seating of your rod. When surf fishing you will be fighting against large fish, the surf weights, and the pull of the surf itself.

The Penn Carnage III is made with Fuji K guides and Fuji reel seats. This helps to ensure that inserts popping out are not something you’ll have to worry about. This rod also comes with Penn’s 5-year limited warranty that will cover any manufacturing issues that might arise.

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Telescopic Fishing Rods

Growing up I had two options for easily portable fishing poles. A pocket fisherman or a stick pole. A stick pole is literally a small stick wrapped with a fishing string and a hook tied at the end. I really like fishing but often on vacation bringing my fishing pole was not an option. Especially when flying to the destination.

Some of my best memories are catching fish on a simple stick pole. However, lots of big fish got away because let’s face it a stick pole is terrible fishing gear. The lure can not be cast and there is no drag. Some people use plastic hand reels but having an actual fishing pole is a much better option.

Telescopic fishing rods are not typically heavy-duty rods set up to catch huge fish. However, adding a high-end reel to a telescopic fishing rod will enable the pole to catch large hard fighting fish. I have seen people in Florida on vacation that literally saw the base off two-piece fishing poles so they can fit them in there luggage. Other people just bring the reels and get cheap one-time use poles at the destination.

Telescopic fishing poles are great to take hiking and camping to catch bass, crappie, walleye, and trout in lakes and streams. It is also great to take on vacations near the ocean to catch sharks, tarpon, and salmon.

One tip when using a telescopic rod is to expand the pole from the tip. When collapsing the pole twist and pull down each section also starting near the tip.

The best option for traveling with fishing gear is to get telescopic fishing poles. These rods are small enough that they can be kept in your vehicle all the time. Collapsibl

Bass Pro Shops Quick Draw Telescopic Combo

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5 Foot Rod	Line-capacity (yd/lb) 110/4
Drag 4.6 pounds	Retrieves 18 in/turn
6 Foot Rod	Line-capacity (yd/lb) 160/8
Drag 5.8 pounds	Retrieves 21 in/turn
6 Foot 6-inches Rod	Line-capacity (yd/lb) 170/10
Drag 11 pounds	Retrieves 23 in/turn

Bass Pro Shops has their own telescopic fishing rod called the Quick Draw. The rod comes in three lengths from 5-foot to 6-feet 6 inches. Each rod length comes with a different size reel. The collapses length of the rod is less than 24 inches. The plastic on the front of the rod is just used to hang the rod when selling them. It comes off and stays off when using the rod and reel. Last time I was at Bass Pro Shops I saw these at it seemed like a good combo for freshwater fishing. The rod will work for saltwater fishing but the reel does not have sealed ball bearings. This means it would not hold up over time in a saltwater fishing environment.

For stream and trout fishing the 5 foot rod spooled up with 4 pound line in a good way to go. For freshwater bass fishing a 6 foot 6-inch rod is what I prefer to use. It casts far and allows for a good hook set. In general you are better off with a one piece or two piece rod. However when traveling and backpacking a telescopic rod is very convenient and allows you to have the gear when you need it. Bass Pro Shops also has the Aventure1 telescopic rod in a spinning model and casting model for a baitcast reel. It comes with just the rod rather than as a combo.

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Zebco 33 Telescopic spinning Combo

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Zebco is known for their spincast reels but also make average quality spinning reels. There are two reel options for this combo. The 6-foot rod comes with a reel spooled with 215 yards of 8 pound monofilament line. The 5 foot rods comes with a smaller reel that holds 200 yards of 4 pound line. For pond and lake fishing the larger reel is better when targeting bass, pickerel, and catfish. When fishing in streams and rivers the four pound line is good for creek chubs, small bass, and trout.

The 6-foot rod collapses to a length of 20 inches for travel. While the ultralight 5-foot rod it collapses to a length of 19-inches. This rod and reel combo is intended for freshwater use. The rod itself will work well in saltwater due to the EVA handle and grips. It would be a good idea to get a different ultralight reel that is saltwater rated when fishing in the ocean.

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Plusinno Carbon Fiber Telescopic Combo

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The rod is available in the following four size configurations: 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, and 9 feet and collapse into sizes between 17 inches and 18 inches. There are two packages you can choose from, one with the rod and reel and one with the rod and reel combo with a carry case and a bunch of extra goodies as well.

The rod is constructed from high-density carbon fiber that allows it to have much better sensitivity than the fiberglass competitors and is extremely lightweight. All the hardware is stainless steel to ensure it is saltwater safe and you get the traditional EVA foam handle.

The reel you get is an average low-cost spinning reel. It is alright for light fishing but if you are going to be going for big saltwater fish swapping out the reel would be a good idea. The rod will only take so much force so having smooth drag will allow for larger fish to be caught.

The Pulsinno retractable rods are certainly a good choice for anglers looking or an basic telescoping fishing rod. They are fun to use, offer lots of versatility in a very small collapsible package, and are offered at a reasonable price.

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Information About Fishing Rods

Power of Fishing Rods

A lot of people think that power and action ratings on a rod are the same thing. However, there are really two important distinctions important to know when selecting one for any particular technique. It’s easier to think of it as action means the way the tip of the rod flexes, and power is how stiff the rod’s back is when being flexed.

Power ratings mostly come in ultralight, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy, and heavy. Ultralight rods are very flexible, while heavy rods hardly flex at all. Depending on what lures or bait you are using, and which species of fish you are targeting, is the main determinant of the proper power your rod should have. Generally the bigger the fish, the stronger the backbone needed in a rod to set a hook in its mouth and then control its direction as it thrashes and fights.

The larger the fish, the bigger the tackle used to catch it, also. Heavy lures cannot be properly cast on a light rod because they can’t support it well enough, just as light lures cannot be thrown with heavy rods because there is not enough flex to load up the energy necessary to do so.

Action of Fishing Rods

Action ratings typically come in slow, moderate, and fast, and deal with the flex at the tip of the rod. It’s easiest to think of it as how fast or slow a tip returns back to being straight after flexing. You can test this out yourself by bending the rod tip and then letting go. Obviously, the less tip that is bendable means it will snap back straight faster, and the more of the tip you can bend means it would be slower to stop vibrating and straighten out.

Any action and power rating can be combined, and the many combinations are each designed for particular techniques used to catch fish. Crankbaiting for bass, to use one example, is usually most successful with medium power, slower action rod. This is because you need the flexibility in the rod’s backbone to load enough energy for a long cast of a typical bass crankbait, and the longer tip bend in order for the fish to get the lure further into its mouth before you set the hook. A fast-action will cause less of the tip to bend, which will pull the lure away from the fish too quickly when you try to set the hook.

IM6, IM7, IM8 Sensitivity Ratings

The truth is, IM6, IM7, and IM8 means nothing. At least, it has no “real”, uniform meaning. These are ratings for graphite strength and sensitivity that used to mean something and now is just thrown around a lot with no single, definitive meaning. Other rod makers use ratings like 24-Ton carbon or 30-Ton carbon, and still some others use High Modulus or Intermediate Modulus, and, truly, everyone is confused.

It might help to understand something about some of these. Carbon modulus is talking about the stiffness of a rod the more modulus the stiffer. There is another measure that goes with modulus, and it’s called strain rate. The acceptable strain rate for a fishing rod needs to be something like 648,000 to 700,000. But as the modulus increases, the strain rate decreases, because the stiffness leads to brittleness. You can hear some of this jargon when you research rods on certain rod maker’s websites and read them talk about how their rod uses high modulus, but it has to be mixed with other materials to offset the brittleness, etc.

Apparently, from interviews I have found with famous rod makers, there was some rod company back in the day who made graphite/carbon blanks, and through trial and error finally developed one they liked and called it IM6, and a better one IM7, and so forth. Other rod makers just picked up the term since it was the first term. I suppose in an effort at uniformity and to simplify the language. One rod’s IM6 is most likely completely different than another’s, so it doesn’t tell you much.

Million Modulus and Tonnage Rating

A real rating of graphite is million modulus and tonnage. Abu Garcia uses Tonnage I know because all my rods by them say 24-Ton graphite or 30-Ton graphite. The general estimate seems to be that IM6 and 24-Ton are roughly the same ratings. The higher the tonnage, the higher the IM number: 30-Ton being IM7, and so on. And so the rod gets lighter with a higher modulus as well, and better composites, which all equals more expensive. It is all very confusing because there are no standardized ratings, but, in general, a higher IM number means a better rod that is lighter and more sensitive, while being mixed in a way to not be too brittle.

Once Piece vs Two Piece Fishing Rods

A one-piece rod is always going to be superior to a two-piece rod, but there are situations where the two-piece comes in handy, and they are still fun and work, regardless.

First, a one-piece is a solid blank, which means it’s sensitivity and strength are just always going to be better. There are more dead areas on a two-piece, where vibrations are dissipating before they make it all the way down to your fingers.  If a cautious fish is holding the lure in its mouth but hasn’t fully committed yet feeling every vibration can help. A two-piece rod has more potential breaking points, namely the part where it’s already broken, and still has to bend when flexed.

There are situations where without a two-piece you just don’t get to fish at all, however. Like when hiking mountain trails and a two-piece rod can be strapped to the side of a pack. This allows you to fish in every creek and lake you see along the way. Sometimes there is no way to travel with a large once pice rod. Another option when traveling or backpacking is to use a telescopic rod.