What type of reel will you choose to handle the world’s toughest game fish? Deep sea fishing means you might encounter fish weighing hundreds of pounds that also swim at exceptional speeds. Your deep sea fishing reel will be your most important tool in these situations because it must hold the line with zero snagging and also deliver a high-powered drag to slow the fish down.
Luckily, modern reel technology offers sealed drag systems that are saltwater-safe. These days, reels are built from durable and lightweight materials. When armed with the right one (along with a durable rod), your odds of landing a big Tuna or monster Halibut increase!
Of course, some fish are so stout that you’ll also be using the vessel to keep up, while also reeling and pulling on the rod. But without a strong rod and reel combo, you’re going nowhere. Let’s dive in and learn the basics!
Deep Sea Fishing Reels Capabilities
We already know that deep sea reels will experience heavy pressure and the drag systems must withstand blitzing runs. But not every fight will be the same. Because of that, there are several different reel styles, all designed for the heaviest of applications.
The main difference will be the drag system you choose. So let’s run through the core drag systems used in most deep sea fishing reel applications:
Star Drag
Named after its star-shaped adjustment knob, this system adds pressure directly to the primary gear on your reel. While not quite as efficient as a large friction disc, it’s very quick and easy to adjust which is important in deep sea fishing situations. Reels with larger gears offer more ability to create resistance against the fish. In deep sea conditions, plan on using some of the largest drag systems offered.
Lever Drag
These drag systems are very efficient and they operate by using a large disc to manage friction and drag pressure. The surface area of the disc is impressive in deep sea-sized reels and they do an excellent job of creating drag on the fish. There’s a constant debate between anglers about which drag is best. Ultimately, it’s a matter of budget and personal preference.
Drag Washers
You can sometimes use spinning reels in the open ocean, and these have a unique drag system. Washers are stacked and each reel has a drag adjustment knob on top of the reel. Adding pressure increases resistance to help stop a hot fish. Modern spin reels can apply serious pressure and they do an excellent job of helping to slow the fish down.
Things to look for in a quality deep sea fishing reel:
- High-grade machining and metals
- Anti-reverse
- Adjustable drag speeds
- Line rings
- Level wind systems
With this basic checklist, you can narrow down the options and begin shopping for specific reels. The market is robust but not overwhelming. Look for trusted brands like Penn, Daiwa, and Shimano for top-level construction and customer support.
Note that prices vary greatly. You can find quality reels for around $100 range but the most reliable and advanced models are at least a few hundred dollars, all the way up to $600.
Which is the best deep sea fishing reel style?
Now that you know the drag systems and fundamental reel qualities, it’s time to dive deeper into each reel type. There are only a few that are used in open ocean conditions and they’re an essential piece of equipment. Don’t skimp on the reel because it makes a world of difference when chasing big game species!
Conventional Level Wind Reels
The most common reel type is the conventional level wind reel. It sits on top-side reel seats for deep sea trolling or overhead rods. The majority of rods on a deep sea vessel are likely to be these two styles and a level wind reel is the perfect match.
Conventional level wind reels come in different sizes and they’re available at a wide range of price points. I like to use my highest-quality reels first while keeping a few budget backups rigged on spare rods.
After deciding on the appropriate drag system and size reel to match your rods, think about gear ratios. The gearing is relative to line pickup. Higher gear ratios mean you’ll retrieve more line with each turn. 4:1 gears mean you get four full cycles for each reel turn while a 6:1 means you get six full turns with each crank of the reel.
Higher gear ratios are ideal when trying to gain ground on very heavy fish. Personally, I go as high as possible for the reel size I choose.
Heavy-duty Spinning Reels
When it comes to spinning reels, it’s extremely important to use a sealed drag system. If the saltwater penetrates the inner metallic components of the drag system, it will cause corrosion and permanent damage.
Spinning reels that are designed for surf casting and saltwater applications are ideal for open ocean fishing. They hold large amounts of line, have sealed drag systems, and are built to fight large fish. Don’t hold back on size when you’re chasing Tuna, Marlin, and other big game species. Look for the beefiest drag system available in a spinning reel.
Deep Sea Fishing Reels FAQs
Are your reels up to the deep sea challenge?
Deep sea fishing and going after big game in the open ocean will test your rods, reels, and other equipment like no other style of fishing. The fishing can go from quiet to absolutely explosive in a matter of seconds. That’s why you should be prepared with quality, purpose-made deep sea fishing reels.
The investment in vessels, rods, navigational equipment, and other gear will be significant. Be sure to choose high-quality reels to ensure you reach the finish line and get that trophy in the boat! From Sharks to Marlin, a quality reel will help you get the job done.
What are your favorite deep sea fishing reels? Let us know your proven favorites in the comments below!