Best Surf Fishing Reels 2024: Buying Guide and Comparison
In our surf fishing reel review for 2024, we compared surf fishing reels from various reputable manufacturers for you. The criteria for comparison were customer reviews, our evaluations, and the price-performance ratio.
In the following overview, you can see the rankings of all models from our surf fishing reel comparison.
Click on “Details” to access the detailed product description of a product. In the product description, you will also find a summary of the customer reviews and our own evaluation. Or click on “View Offer” to directly see the offer.
Best Surf Fishing Reels 2024: All Placements from 1-10 in the Overview
1st (Comparison Winner): Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC Surf Fishing Reel
This top-performing surf fishing reel, the Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC, is our comparison winner for a reason! Its lightweight design, durability, and smooth operation make it a favorite among anglers.
It’s strong enough to handle even small sharks with ease. But it’s more than just a surfcasting reel – with its high gear ratio and comfortable handling, it excels in various fishing styles.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 90 customers (4.6 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Our Comparison Winner
- Highest gear ratio in our comparison
- Lightest weight in our comparison
- High drag force of 33.1 lbs (15 kg)
- Very smooth with 6 ball bearings
Cons
- Not saltwater resistant
- Slightly more expensive than other models
2nd (Best Value for Money): HAUT TON NGK 14000 Surf Fishing Reel
The HAUT TON NGK 14000 is a real head-turner with its sleek modern design, but it’s more than just a pretty face. This affordable surfcasting reel is built tough to handle big fish and long fights without emptying your wallet.
Anglers rave about its smooth operation, thanks to the 18 ball bearings, and its robust construction that can withstand harsh saltwater conditions. One of the standout features of the HAUT TON NGK 14000 is its impressive line capacity, the highest in its class.
This makes it ideal for targeting large fish that make long runs, ensuring you have enough line to handle their powerful surges. And when you hook into a monster, the exceptional drag system provides the stopping power you need to bring it to shore.
While some users have mentioned that the bail arm can be a bit noisy, it’s a minor drawback in an otherwise fantastic reel. Simply closing the bail arm manually can mitigate this issue and even prolong its lifespan.
Overall, the HAUT TON NGK 14000 delivers exceptional performance and features at an unbeatable price, making it a top choice for value-conscious anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned surfcaster or just starting out, this reel deserves a serious look.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 270 customers (4.4 of 5) on Amazon
- Our Best Value for Money Winner
- Highest line capacity in our comparison
- Highest drag force in our comparison
- Highest number of ball bearings in our comparison
- Excellent value for the money
- Saltwater resistant
Cons
- Not a high-performance reel
- Noisy bail arm
3rd: Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD Surf Fishing Reel
Anglers highly praise the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD for its smooth operation, powerful drag, and impressive casting distance. Its lightweight and compact design makes it a versatile choice for both surf and spin fishing enthusiasts.
While it requires extra care in saltwater due to its lack of saltwater resistance, the Ultegra 5500 XTD delivers exceptional performance and reliability, making it a top contender for anglers seeking a versatile reel.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 310 customers (4.4 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Third lightest model in our comparison
- Highest gear ratio of 5.3:1 in our comparison
- High drag force
- Compact surf fishing reel
- Very smooth
Cons
- Not saltwater resistant
4th: Penn Rival Longcast Gold 7000 Surf Fishing Reel
Anglers appreciate the Penn Rival Longcast Gold 7000 for its smooth performance, generous line capacity, and durable build. Its saltwater resistance makes it ideal for surfcasting and targeting larger fish.
The classic design with gold accents adds a touch of sophistication, while its reliable functionality has made it a popular choice among fishing enthusiasts.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 80 customers (4.5 of 5) on Amazon
- High line capacity
- Constructed from durable aluminum
- Saltwater resistant
- Good value for money
Cons
- Heavier than some other models
- Lowest drag force of 17.6 lbs (8 kg) in our comparison
5th: Daiwa Crosscast Surf 45 SCW 5000C QD Surf Fishing Reel
Looking for a tough, high-performing surfcasting reel that won’t drain your wallet? The Daiwa Crosscast Surf 45 SCW 5000C QD delivers! Anglers love its casting distance, smooth operation, and impressive drag strength for taming big fish.
It’s a beast for bottom fishing, though its size might not suit all anglers. With a sleek look and a price under $150, it’s no wonder this reel is a popular choice!
Pros
- Reviewed by over 50 customers (4.5 of 5) on Amazon
- Medium line capacity
- High drag force
- Saltwater resistant
- Good value for money
Cons
- Heavier than some other models
- Only 3 ball bearings
6th: Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD Surf Fishing Reel
Dominate the surf with the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD! This powerful reel is turning heads with its smooth performance, effortless handling of long rods and braided line, and a knack for landing big fish.
The sleek silver design houses a high line capacity and impressive drag force, making it ideal for distance casting and battling trophy catches.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 150 customers (4.2 of 5) on Amazon
- Second-highest line capacity in our comparison
- Second-highest drag force in our comparison
- 5 ball bearings
Cons
- Heavier than some other models
- Not saltwater resistant
7th: Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000 Surf Fishing Reel
Looking for a lightweight and reliable surfcasting reel that won’t break the bank? The Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000 is a great option for anglers targeting smaller species.
While it may not be the ideal choice for battling trophy-sized fish, it offers a smooth drag and solid performance for a variety of surf fishing situations.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 160 customers (4.1 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Second lightest reel in our comparison
- Saltwater resistant
- Smooth
- Good value for money
Cons
- Wobbly when fighting large fish
- Lowest line capacity in our comparison
8th: Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE Surf Fishing Reel
The Shimano Ultegra XSE is a top-performing surfcasting reel that’s gaining popularity for its impressive combination of power, smoothness, and versatility. It’s designed to handle a wide range of fishing situations, from battling strong fish to casting long distances.
Anglers consistently praise its smooth operation, high line capacity, and lightweight design. With its sleek appearance and reputation for quality, the Shimano Ultegra XSE is a force to be reckoned with in the surfcasting reel market.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 20 customers (4.2 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Second highest line capacity in our comparison
- Second highest drag force in our comparison
- Very smooth
- Good value for money
Cons
- Not saltwater resistant
9th: Penn Surfblaster III Longcast 7000 Surf Fishing Reel
The Penn Surfblaster III Longcast 7000 is a workhorse of a reel, ready to tackle the challenges of saltwater surfcasting. Its solid aluminum build and corrosion-resistant design ensure it can handle harsh conditions and big fish.
Anglers appreciate the smooth retrieve, thanks to its 6 ball bearings, and the classic look that never goes out of style.
Keep in mind that this reel features manual bail closure, which can take some getting used to. Also, some users have mentioned concerns about the bail arm’s long-term durability.
If you’re looking for a tough and reliable reel for surfcasting, the Penn Surfblaster III Longcast 7000 is worth considering, but be sure to weigh these factors against your specific needs.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 60 customers (4 of 5) on Amazon
- Very smooth
- Made of very robust aluminum
- Saltwater resistant
Cons
- Heaviest reel in our comparison
-
Smaller line capacity than some other models
10th: Okuma Flite 12000A Surf Fishing Reel
The Okuma Flite 12000A is a surfcasting reel that aims to balance features and affordability. Its modern design, high drag force, and smooth 10-ball-bearing operation are attractive features for budget-minded anglers.
However, it’s important to be aware of the mixed reviews it has received. Some anglers praise its value, while others express concerns about its overall quality and durability. One notable feature, which could be considered a quirk, is the need to manually close the bail after each cast.
This might not be a deal-breaker for all anglers, but it’s something to consider if you prefer the convenience of an automatic bail trip. For those seeking top-notch quality and reliability, alternatives like the Daiwa Crosscast Surf 45 SCW 5000C QD or the Penn Rival Longcast Gold 7000 might be more suitable choices.
These reels offer comparable features and often better performance, all within the same price range. Ultimately, the Okuma Flite 12000A could be a decent option for casual surfcasters who prioritize affordability and aren’t overly concerned about long-term durability.
However, if you’re looking for a reel that can withstand the rigors of serious surfcasting and provide consistent performance, exploring alternative options might be a wise move.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 10 customers (3.5 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- 10 ball bearings
- Fourth lightest reel in our comparison
- Third-highest drag force in our comparison
- Saltwater resistant
Cons
- Customers have reported quality issues
- Daiwa Crosscast Surf 45 SCW 5000C QD or the Penn Rival Longcast Gold 7000 as more reliable alternatives in the same price range
The Essentials in Brief
- Surf fishing reels are needed for fishing in saltwater from the shore, allowing for particularly long casts.
- They are also referred to as surf casting reels or long cast spinning reels.
- Due to their special features, surf fishing reels are also suitable as carp reels, catfish reels, and sea reels for fishing in deep waters.
- Affordable surf fishing reels are available for under 100 dollars. Higher-quality long cast spinning reels from reputable manufacturers cost between 100 and 250 dollars. Professional high-end surf casting reels are offered at prices ranging from 250 to 650 dollars.
Buying Surf Fishing Reels: Questions You Should Consider Before Purchasing
What advantages does a surf fishing reel offer compared to other fishing reels?
Surf fishing reels are designed to lay the line particularly evenly. During the cast, the line glides off the spool more easily, allowing for longer casts. Other special features of surf casting reels include their very high drag power and very high line capacity.
Today, there are many different types of fishing reels that are used for various fishing methods. Many manufacturers also offer specialized target fish reels, with features tailored specifically to the fish being caught. A surf fishing reel offers you the following advantages:
- Allows for very long casts
- Very high drag power
- Very high line capacity
- Versatile for big fish fishing
Surf fishing reels are the best choice when it comes to achieving particularly high casting distances. The clean line lay required for this is achieved through a very slow spool stroke.
This means that the spool moves only minimally up or down when the crank is turned. As a result, the line wraps are placed directly next to each other, allowing for optimal line lay.
Another distinctive feature is the V-shaped spool edge, which ensures that the line can glide off the reel more easily during the cast. This also optimizes casting distance.
To safely land powerful saltwater fish, a fishing reel with sufficient drag power is necessary. All good surf fishing reels have a front drag, as larger brake disks with higher drag power can be installed in the front part of the reel due to design reasons.
The top models among surf fishing reels have a drag power of 40-60 lbs. However, high drag power alone is not enough to safely fight strong, large saltwater fish. Experienced anglers know that big fish can only be safely landed through a combination of the correct drag setting and adequate line capacity.
Especially in surf fishing, 100 meters or more of fishing line can be pulled off the reel with just the cast. Strong saltwater fish such as tuna, sharks or goliath grouper bass can make the drag scream and quickly pull even more line from the spool.
Therefore, when selecting a fishing reel, it is essential to pay attention to adequate line capacity if you plan to fish for big fish.
Due to their very high drag power and line capacity, beach reels are also very popular among carp and catfish anglers. You can use them for fishing for all types of big fish in both freshwater and saltwater, and they are also well-suited for fishing from a boat in very deep waters.
How much does a surf fishing reel cost?
Surf fishing reels vary in price depending on the number of ball bearings, the materials used, and the drag power. Entry-level models cost between 25 and 100 dollars. They have fewer ball bearings and lower drag power.
Mid-range models (100-250 dollars) offer more ball bearings for smoother operation, and there are also some models with 40-50 lbs drag power.
Professional beach reels (250-650 dollars) have a particularly high number of ball bearings. Most have 40-60 lbs drag power, and some are made from specially lightweight magnesium alloys.
Surf Fishing Reel Price Categories | Price Range |
---|---|
Affordable Beginner Surf Fishing Reels | 25-100 dollars |
High-quality Surf Fishing Reels from reputable manufacturers | 100-250 dollars |
Professional High-end Surf Fishing Reels | 250-650 dollars |
The price of a surf fishing reel mainly depends on the number of ball bearings, the material, and the drag power. Affordable entry-level beach reels can be purchased for prices ranging from 25 to 100 dollars.
They typically have a lower number of ball bearings and less drag power compared to higher-quality models from the mid-price segment.
In the mid-price range of 100 to 250 dollars, surf fishing reels with a higher number of ball bearings can be found. A higher number of ball bearings ensures smoother operation of the fishing reel. Additionally, there are already models in this price range with a maximum drag power of 45 lbs.
Another feature of mid-range surf fishing reels is their sometimes very high line capacities and lighter weight. The lighter weight is achieved through the use of very lightweight composite materials, such as CI4+.
Lighter surf fishing reels offer the advantage that the fishing rod can be accelerated more rapidly during the cast, allowing for greater casting distances.
In the upper price range of 250 to 650 dollars, you can find surf fishing reels with a particularly high number of ball bearings. Most, but not all, models have a drag power of 45 lbs or higher. Some of these high-end surf fishing reels are made from particularly lightweight magnesium alloys and weigh less than 18 oz.
Surf Fishing Reel Comparison: You can evaluate surf fishing reels based on these characteristics
The most important criteria when purchasing a surf fishing reel are line capacity, drag power, the number of ball bearings, and the weight of the reel. Sufficient line capacity allows for long casts and the ability to target large fish.
A sufficiently high drag power combined with a large line capacity is essential for successfully fishing for big fish. More ball bearings mean smoother operation.
The weight of a surf fishing reel is important for active fishing methods like spin fishing. In this case, choose lighter models for added comfort and to avoid muscle fatigue.
In our general fishing reel guide, we have already summarized the key features that can be used to compare and evaluate fishing reels.
Unlike all-round fishing reels, surf fishing reels are designed to achieve particularly long casting distances and target large fish. Therefore, the following criteria are especially important when purchasing beach reels:
- Line capacity
- Drag power
- Number of ball bearings
- Weight
Line capacity is the most crucial criterion, as only with sufficient line can one cast very far and successfully catch large fish at a distance.
In second place is drag power. A very high drag power alone is not enough to successfully land large fish, but in combination with a high line capacity and sufficient fishing experience, the chances increase significantly.
If the drag power of the fishing reel is too low, large and powerful saltwater fish can pull too much line from the reel. In this case, fish can be lost because line twists can form or the line is insufficient. If you aim to catch very large fish, a surf fishing reel with at least 45 lbs of drag power will keep you on the safe side.
The number of ball bearings determines how smoothly a fishing reel operates. Surf fishing reels with a higher number of ball bearings, therefore, have a smoother operation.
When surf fishing and bottom fishing, a smooth reel operation plays a secondary role for most anglers, as the rod and reel are mostly rested on a rod holder. For this reason, we have placed this criterion in third place.
However, when using the surf fishing reel for vertical fishing or heavy spin fishing from a boat, the situation changes. In this case, the reel is constantly under strain, and a model with a silky smooth operation and a high number of ball bearings greatly enhances fishing comfort.
The weight of a surf fishing reel also only plays a larger role in more active fishing methods, such as spin fishing and lure fishing from a boat in deep water. Therefore, we have placed this criterion in fourth place.
If you also want to use a surf fishing reel for these fishing methods, choosing a lighter model can help reduce or avoid muscle soreness after several hours of fishing.