Electric Fishing Reel: Top Picks for Every Angler

Fishing can be both a relaxing pastime and a challenging sport. The electric fishing reel has become a popular tool among fishermen of all skill levels. They help make fishing easier and can be especially useful when targeting deep water species or when you need to haul in larger fish.

Electric fishing reels have a built-in motor that helps automate the reeling process. They reduce physical strain and can save a lot of time, especially during long fishing trips. These reels are great for people who have less strength or for when you’re aiming to catch bigger, heavier fish.

When buying an electric fishing reel, look for features like battery life, drag power, and the overall build quality. The weight of the reel and how easy it is to use are also important. Controls should be simple and the reel should be durable enough to handle tough conditions. A good electric fishing reel should make your fishing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Next, I will review some of the top electric fishing reels to help you make a well-informed decision.

Top Electric Fishing Reels

I’ve compiled a list of the best electric fishing reels you can buy today. These reels will make catching fish easier and more enjoyable.

Daiwa S500JP Electric Reel

An excellent choice for deep sea fishing with a strong and reliable performance.

Pros

• Powerful winding capability
• Lightweight design
• Easy to use

Cons

• Programming can be tricky
• Limited repair options in the US
• Requires a separate battery purchase

I was quite impressed with the Daiwa S500JP Electric Reel during my recent fishing trip. Its powerful winding capability made reeling in mid-sized halibut from deep waters a breeze. What really stood out to me was how lightweight it felt, reducing arm fatigue even after a long day of fishing.

The reel was straightforward to use, making it ideal for both seasoned anglers and beginners. The design combines strength and ease of use, which is hard to find in many electric fishing reels. Despite having a lower gear ratio, it performed exceptionally well for deep water rock fishing.

On the downside, programming the reel took some time to figure out. While I eventually got the hang of it, it was a bit challenging without watching a helpful YouTube tutorial. Additionally, it’s worth noting that repairs through Daiwa in the US are limited, which may be a concern if you encounter issues. Lastly, purchasing a suitable battery separately added to the cost, but the reel’s performance made it worthwhile.

Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist Reel

This reel is great for serious fishing due to its power and ease of use.

Pros

• Strong motor for deep drop fishing
• Easy-to-read digital readout
• Durable build for saltwater use

Cons

• Pricey for casual anglers
• Heavier than manual reels
• Requires understanding digital settings

I recently had the chance to try out the Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist Reel on a fishing trip, and it delivered an impressive performance. The strong motor made deep drop fishing much less of a hassle. The digital readout is clear and very helpful for keeping track of line depth.

On the downside, this reel is a bit pricey, which might be a concern for casual fishers. It also has some weight to it, making it less ideal for those who prefer lightweight gear. Mastering the digital settings took a bit of time, so be prepared to study the manual.

Despite the cons, the Daiwa Tanacom 1200 stands out as a reliable and powerful option for anyone serious about deep drop fishing or kite fishing. If you’re willing to invest in quality, this electric reel could be a game-changer for your fishing trips.

Shimano PLEMIO 3000 Big Game

The Shimano PLEMIO 3000 Big Game is a robust and user-friendly electric fishing reel that excels in deep-sea fishing.

Pros

• Powerful drag capacity
• Easy to use for deep-sea fishing
• Compact and well-designed

Cons

• Lacks English instructions
• Can overheat under heavy load
• Slightly expensive

Using the Shimano PLEMIO 3000 was a game-changer for my deep-sea fishing experience. The reel’s powerful drag capacity of 10 kilograms made reeling in big fish a breeze. Its compact design and ergonomic handle ensured that I didn’t experience any discomfort, even after several hours of use.

The placement of the cord plug is intuitive and doesn’t get in the way, adding to the user-friendly design. I found it easy to set up and operate with a 12v 9ah deep cycle battery. The reel worked perfectly at various depths, including up to 400 feet.

One drawback is the lack of English instructions, which makes it a bit tricky to figure out initially. Overheating can be an issue under heavy load, but allowing it to cool down usually solves the problem. Despite its higher price, the performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment.

PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel

A reliable and durable reel that’s perfect for anyone serious about fishing.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Sturdy construction with quality materials
• Smooth gear operation

Cons

• May feel a bit loose in the handle and gear area
• High maintenance needed for long-term use
• Not ideal for extremely large fish

I recently tried out the PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, and it impressed me with its lightweight design and ease of use. The graphite frame and side plates make it a breeze to handle, especially during long fishing sessions. The aluminum frame rings add to its durability, making it a dependable choice for most fishing adventures.

The gears auto-engage, which is great for quick recovery during casting and reeling. The marine-grade bronze alloy main and machine-cut brass pinion gears feel solid, and the 5.1:1 gear ratio offers a good balance between speed and power. Having used it myself, I can say the multi-stop bearing system gives you precise control, which is crucial when you’ve got a big catch on the line.

Though I found the reel generally well-made, the handle and gear train did feel a little loose. This didn’t affect my fishing much, but it’s something to be aware of. Despite this, the HT-100 Star Drag system works brilliantly, helping to tire out even stubborn fish without draining my energy. If you’re into catching medium-sized fish regularly, this reel should suit you well.

Daiwa Tanacom1000 Electric Fishing Reel

This reel is a game-changer for deep drop fishing, combining power and ease of use.

Pros

• Powerful performance
• Easy to program with LCD display
• Effective in retrieving heavy sinkers

Cons

• It’s a bit heavy
• Requires a 12-volt system
• Higher price point

I’ve had the pleasure of using the Daiwa Tanacom1000 Electric Fishing Reel on deep-drop fishing trips, and it’s been incredibly effective. The power assist function takes the strain off, making it easier to haul in fish from great depths. Programming is straightforward, thanks to the English LCD display.

The reel also boasts a robust drag system. This feature is crucial when you’re fighting big fish, giving you smooth control without any abrupt jerks. The manual winding option adds versatility, letting you switch to hand-cranking if needed.

However, it’s not perfect. The reel is somewhat heavy, which might be a concern for prolonged use. You’ll also need a 12-volt power source, and it comes with a higher price tag compared to manual reels. Yet, for those serious about deep-sea fishing, this investment is worth every penny.

Buying Guide

When you’re looking for an electric fishing reel, consider a few key features that will help you make the best choice.

Power and Speed
Electric reels vary in power. Higher power is better for deep-sea fishing. Speed also matters—faster retrievals save time and effort.

Battery Life
Check how long the battery lasts. Longer battery life means more fishing time. Some reels have batteries that can be swapped, which is handy for long trips.

Ease of Use
Look for reels with simple controls. A digital display can make it easier to track depth and settings. Some reels have automatic programs to help with specific types of fishing.

Durability
Fishing reels need to withstand water and salt. Look for reels made from corrosion-resistant materials. Sealed components help keep out moisture and dirt.

Noise Level
Some reels are quieter than others. A quieter reel can be less disruptive and more enjoyable to use.

Here’s a quick reference table:

Consider these features based on your needs and fishing style. Make sure the reel fits your budget and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Electric fishing reels offer unique benefits and considerations. Here are some specific questions and answers to help you understand their use.

1. What are the advantages of using an electric fishing reel over a traditional one?

Electric fishing reels make fishing easier by reducing physical strain. They are especially useful for catching large fish and for those who spend long hours fishing.

2. How to select the appropriate electric fishing reel for saltwater fishing?

Look for reels with corrosion-resistant materials. Ensure the reel has enough power and capacity to handle the larger fish found in saltwater environments.

3. What features should be considered when purchasing an electric fishing reel for disabled anglers?

Pay attention to ease of use and comfort. Look for reels with simple controls, ergonomic designs, and auto-stop features.

4. Can electric fishing reels be used for commercial fishing, and what are the benefits?

Yes, they can be. Electric reels save time and labor, increasing efficiency. They are capable of handling heavy loads and provide consistent performance, which is essential in commercial fishing.

5. How do the capabilities of electric fishing reels vary across different price ranges?

Lower-priced models may lack advanced features, such as programmable settings. Higher-end reels usually offer durability, more power, and extra functions, making them suitable for serious anglers.