The Best Reels for Walleye
We compared the most reliable reels for walleye fishing: smooth drag, fluid retrieval, and a size suitable for both jigging and trolling.
Our #1 pick
SHIMANO
Best Overall Reel
$366.35
For walleye, a size 2500 (sometimes 3000) light-duty casting reel offers the best balance: light enough to feel the bites, with enough capacity for braided line and a good fight.
What really matters: a progressive drag that doesn’t lock up when the fish jerks its head, smooth retrieval, and good resistance to water drag. For trolling, a reel with a line counter lets you set the lure at exactly the depth that produces results.
Our selection ranges from reliable entry-level reels to high-end models that will last for years.
SHIMANO
SHIMANO Spinning Reel 23 Stradic Various C3000 Japan Import New
A reel renowned for its smooth action and highly precise drag. An investment that will last for many seasons.
Pros
- Very smooth recovery
- Precise braking
- Sustainable Construction
Cons
- High price
Manufacturer description
- •Gear ratio: 5.1 / Practical drag force (kg): 3.5 / Maximum drag force (kg): 9
- •Weight: 8.9 oz (225 g) / Spool Diameter: 1.8 inches (47 mm) / Stroke: 0.6 inches (17 mm)
- •Line Capacity: Nylon (No. - m) 2.5 - 180, 3 - 150, 4 - 100 / Fluoro (No. - M) 2.5 - 160, 3-130, 4-100, PE (No. - M) 1-400, 1.5 - 270, 2-200
- •Maximum winding length (per revolution): 3.0 inches (75 cm); Handle length: 2.2 inches (55 mm)
- •Number of Bearings (BB/Roller): 6/1
Specifications
- Color
- Silver
- Size
- One Size
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
SHIMANO
Shimano 23 Sedona Spinning Reel 2500HG
Shimano reliability at an affordable price: smooth, lightweight, and the perfect 2500 size for walleye.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Smooth and light
- A Trusted Brand
Cons
- Less waterproof than a high-end model
Manufacturer description
- •Gear Ratio: 14.2 lbs (6.2 kg), Practical Drag Force: 7.5 lbs (3.5 kg), Maximum Drag Force: 19.8 lbs (9 kg)
- •Weight: 8.5 oz (240 g) / Spool Diameter: 1.8 inches (46.5 g) / Stroke: 0.5 inches (14.5 g)
- •Line Capacity: Nylon (No. - m) 2-170, 2.5-150, 3-120, Fluoro (No. - M) 2-140, 2.5-125, 3-100, PE (No. - M) 1-320, 1.2-270, 1.5-220
- •Maximum winding length (per turn of handle): 3.6 inches (91 cm); Handle length: 2.2 inches (55 mm)
- •Number of Bearings (BB/Roller): 3/1
Specifications
- Color
- シルバー
- Size
- 2500HG
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Pflueger
President Spinning Reel-Clam- 30-10- 5.2:1
A lightweight, smooth-running reel that has been very popular among walleye anglers for years because of its balance and reliability.
Pros
- Very light
- Gentle Brake
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Less durable in saltwater (not an issue in freshwater)
Manufacturer description
- •President Spinning Reel-Clam- 30- 10- 5.2:1
- •Fishing Reel
- •Fishing Reel
- •Fishing Reel
- •Fishing Reel
Specifications
- Color
- Multi
- Size
- One Size
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Daiwa
Daiwa BG Saltwater Medium/Xtra Heavy Spinning Reel, Black/Gold - BG3000
A metal-body reel that's sturdy and durable, built to withstand long seasons and big fish.
Pros
- Very sturdy
- Powerful brake
- Good line capacity
Cons
- Heavier
Manufacturer description
- •Made of the highest qualitiy materials
- •Daiwa BG Saltwater Medium/Xtra Heavy Spinning Reel, Black/Gold - BG3000
- •Made of the highest qualitiy materials
Specifications
- Color
- Multi
- Size
- Medium/Extra Heavy
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Okuma
Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
A drum reel with a built-in line counter: you know exactly how much line has been let out, so you can repeat the depth where the fish are biting.
Pros
- Accurate Line Counter
- Designed for trolling
- Good price
Cons
- Reserved for the stragglers
Manufacturer description
- •Lightweight corrosion resistant frame and side plates
- •Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
- •Lightweight corrosion resistant frame and side plates
- •XL gearing: Drop down gear box with self lubricating gear wystem
Specifications
- Color
- Multicoloured
- Size
- CW-453D
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Abu Garcia
Max Pro Spinning Reel-2500-Right/Left
A simple and reliable reel, ideal for a first walleye rod or for kids.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Size 2500—ideal for walleye
Cons
- Less durable than a higher-end model
- Price varies by seller
Manufacturer description
- •Max Pro Spinning Reel-2500-Right/Left
Specifications
- Color
- Multi-color
- Size
- 2500 - Box
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.