Updated 12/29/2023
Looking for the best walleye reels on the market? Look no further. I’ve done the hours of reel research and testing on strength, durability, and material quality so you don’t have to.
Walleye are fished with a variety of techniques like jigging, casting, and trolling. This wide variety may mean walleye anglers need spinning reels, casting reels, or trolling reels. The best walleye reels in each of these categories should be reliable, smooth, and appropriately sized for the demands of walleye fishing.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert angler, these reels are sure to meet your needs and help land your next cooler full of walleye!
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
Our Top 7 Picks
- Best for the Money: Penn Battle III Spinning Reel
- Best Under $100: KastKing Sharky III Spinning Reel
- Best Under $150: Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
- Best Budget: Daiwa BG Spinning Reel
- Best Premium: Shimano Vanford Spinning Reel
- Best Baitcasting: Shimano Curado M
- Best Trolling: Shimano Tekota Line Counter Trolling Reel
The 7 Best Walleye Reels
Whether you’re a new angler or a grizzled expert, we have you covered. Check out our recommendations for best walleye reels for different price points and fishing styles.
1. Penn Battle III Spinning Reel
- Reel Sizes: 1000 to 8000
- Gear Ratio: 4.2:1 to 7.0:1
- Max Drag: 9 to 40 lb
- Ball Bearings: 5+1
- Weight: 7.8 to 38.8 oz
Pros:
- Premium reel features for reasonable price
Our choice for the best walleye reel for the money is the Penn Battle III spinning reel which we feel is that perfect mix of premium quality with a manageable price tag.
The Battle III includes a 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system, Penn’s HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, and a full metal aluminum body and side plate. It is high quality designed for durability and performance and Penn really outdid themselves with the attention to detail. Line capacity rings on the spool make for an easy visual reference to tell how much line you have to spare.
We like the 2500 size Penn Battle III as a great all-around walleye fishing reel because of its premium features at a fair price point.
If you read our article on the best walleye rods, you’ll notice how much we preach that sensitivity is key for detecting finnicky walleye bites. While most of an angler’s ‘felt sensitivity’ comes from the rod blank, having a premium reel like the Penn Battle III is important because smooth depth control lets you focus on what you’re feeling on-bottom instead of fighting a reel.
The material choices make for a lightweight reel with great corrosion resistance. Also, the spool is considered a ‘Superline Spool’ or a braid-ready spool. This means there is a little rubber ring on the spool that lets you directly tie braid to the spool without it slipping. A nice touch!
No need to overthink it. This is a premium reel priced for value.
2. KastKing Sharky III Spinning Reel
- Reel Sizes: 1000 to 5000
- Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
- Max Drag: 33 to 39.5 pounds
- Ball Bearings: 10+1
- Weight: 7.4 to 10.6 oz
Pros:
- Budget friendly but still fit for purpose
Our choice for the best walleye spinning reel under $100 is the KastKing Sharky III spinning reel. You don’t need to break the bank for quality equipment. This reel hits above its weight class and gets the job done. The reel is surprisingly smooth for its price point with a 10+1 bearing system.
The Sharky III has some great features like the K.I.S.S. (KastKing Intrusion Shield System) sealing system to improve water resistance for the spool, body, and rotor. The aluminum spool has a rubber backing to allow direct spooling of braided fishing line. This reel also has best-in-class drag of over 33 pounds.
This reel contains most of the features of a high end reel but is priced for value. This is a great option for a budget conscious walleye angler.
3. Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
- Reel Sizes: 10 to 40
- Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
- Max Drag: 11 lb
- Ball Bearings: 8+1
- Weight: 7.1 to 8 oz
Pros:
- High quality reel for moderate price
Our choice for the best walleye spinning reel under $150 is the Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel. This is a great quality, mid-tier reel that is perfect for walleye anglers wanting to step up slightly in price point.
We prefer the 20 size as a great jigging walleye spinning reel. The 20 size can fit 175 yards of 8 lb braid. The reel has a super-smooth retrieve thanks to its AMGearing precision machining. As we’ve mentioned with other premium reels on this list, we’ve found that the smooth retrieve on the Revo SX allows us to focus on what’s going on underwater instead of fighting a lower quality reel.
The reel has a one-piece aluminum frame that allows for great strength without adding too much weight. The 6.2:1 gear ratio is perfect for most walleye fishing techniques like jigging bottom with live bait or tossing slip bobbers.
4. Daiwa BG Spinning Reel
- Reel Sizes: 1500 to 8000
- Gear Ratio: 5.3:1 to 5.7:1
- Max Drag: 4.4 to 33
- Ball Bearings: 6+1
- Weight: 8.5 to 30 oz
Pros:
- Great reel for budget price
Our pick for the best budget walleye spinning reel is the Daiwa BG Spinning Reel. It’s a solidly constructed, quality reel that is perfect for targeting walleye on your favorite lake or river. This reel is durable and smooth while maintaining a great budget price.
The reel includes Daiwa’s Automatic Tournament Drag (ATD) that reduces initial drag start-up inertia to create a smoother drag from initial startup. It also has digitally engineered gears to optimize speed, power, durability, and smoothness. Daiwa claims their tests reveal their gear life is up to three times longer than competitors reels! We’re always looking for equipment that will last forever and this reel can take a beating.
Also, it doesn’t hurt that this reel just plain looks great with its sleek black anodized machined aluminum housing!
5. Shimano Vanford
- Reel Sizes: 1000 to 5000
- Gear Ratio: 5.1:1 to 6.4:1
- Max Drag: 7 to 24 lb
- Ball Bearings: 7+1
- Weight: 5.3 to 7.8
Pros:
- High quality in every aspect
Our choice for the best premium walleye spinning reel is the Shimano Vanford. This reel is high quality in every aspect. The 2500 size is a super lightweight 6.3 oz with a beefy 20 lb drag.
The reel has the quickest feeling response due to the incorporated MagnumLite Rotor that Shimano claims has 48% less rotational inertia than traditional rotors. The reel also includes Shimano’s X-Protect and water-channeling construction to maximize water resistance and durability.
These features combined with the high quality carbon fiber body make this a great reel choice for walleye fishing. Don’t think twice about grabbing the Vanford as a high-quality multipurpose reel for walleye, bass, panfish, and anything in-between.
6. Shimano Curado M
- Gear Ratio: 6.2:1 – 8.5:1
- Max Drag: 12 – 13 lbs
- Ball Bearings: 6+1
- Weight: 7.4 – 7.6 oz
- Braid Capacity (yd/lb): 190/30
Pros:
- Butter smooth
- Great casting distance
Our choice for best baitcasting reel for walleye is the Shimano Curado M. We picked it as our top choice because it’s a no-frills, high value proposition reel.
This reel is smooth as butter and feels like you can cast it a mile. It’s built for reliability and durability, rated for both freshwater and saltwater, and is an absolute delight to fish with.
Shimano recently released the Curado M as their flagship replacement for the Curado K. Compared to the Curado 200K, the Curado 200M is 0.2 oz lighter, has 2 lb higher max drag rating, and has Shimano’s MagnumLite (MGL) Spool III that reduces start-up inertia for unparalleled casting performance. Also, they added the SilentTune technology that reduces spool noise during casts.
We’ve recently had success targeting late summer walleyes in shallow pockets of flowing water using silver lipless crankbaits on our casting rods matches with Curado Ms. We believe the walleye are targeting young bass, because one of them once regurgitated a partially digested fish that was the same size and shape as our lipless crankbaits. The old adage to match the hatch is still valid!
The Curado M features Shimano’s latest MicroModule gearing they claim as super smooth and efficient. Spoilers, it is.
The Curado M baitcasting reel can do anything you want a baitcaster to do from finesse casting in thick vegetation to working large crankbaits in open water. Check out our article on walleye fishing techniques for a bunch of great information on how to use the Curado M to catch walleye.
I could go on and on about this reel. Suffice to say, if you want a smooth, durable, multi-function, long lasting baitcasting reel, the Shimano Curado M is a great choice. We’ve had multiple Curado baitcasting reels over the years and they still work like brand new. Papa Juran has an earlier model Curado reel that is over 10 years old and it’s still going strong!
For other great walleye baitcasting reels, check out our article on the best baitcasting reels.
7. Shimano Tekota Line Counter Trolling Reel
- Gear Ratio: 3.9:1 or 6.3:1
- Max Drag: 24 to 35 lb
- Drag Type: Star Drag
- Line Counter: Available on select models
- Ball Bearings: 3+1 or 4+1
- Weight: 15.5 to 30.7
Pros:
- Perfect trolling reel features
Our pick for the best walleye trolling reel for the money is the Shimano Tekota Line Counter. Many anglers consider the Shimano Tekota as the gold standard of trolling reels. It’s reliable, built to last, has a high drag rating, high line capacity, and a great line counter. It is everything a trolling reel needs to be.
This reel is perfect for walleye trolling with downriggers, planer boards, lead core line, or wirelines. We recommend the version with the line counter so walleye anglers have the depth control they need. This reel is comparatively lightweight due to its aluminum body.
The Tekota features Shimano’s CoreProtect for increased corrosion resistance and an oversized ergonomic handle to easily grip while reeling in big fish. The reel has a loud clicker which is great for detecting strikes while trolling.
This reel is built from high quality components and is an awesome choice for a trolling reel.
For other great walleye trolling reel options, check out our article on the best trolling reels.
Reel Comparison Table
Check out our handy comparison table showing key specifications for our top reel choices.
| Reel Name | Reel Sizes | Gear Ratio | Max Drag | Ball Bearings | Weight (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Battle III Spinning Reel | 1000 to 8000 | 4.2:1 to 7.0:1 | 9 to 40 lb | 5+1 | 7.8 to 38.8 |
| KastKing Sharky III Spinning Reel | 1000 to 5000 | 5.2:1 | 33 to 39.5 pounds | 10+1 | 7.4 to 10.6 |
| Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel | 10 to 40 | 6.2:1 | 11 lb | 8+1 | 7.1 to 8 |
| Daiwa BG Spinning Reel | 1500 to 8000 | 5.3:1 to 5.7:1 | 4.4 to 33 | 6+1 | 8.5 to 30 |
| Shimano Vanford | 1000 to 5000 | 5.1:1 to 6.4:1 | 7 to 24 lb | 7+1 | 5.3 to 7.8 |
| Shimano Curado M | 200 | 6.4:1 – 8.5:1 | 12 – 13 lbs | 6+1 | 7.4 – 7.6 |
| Shimano Tekota Line Counter Trolling Reel | N/A | 3.9:1 or 6.3:1 | 24 to 35 lb | 3+1 or 4+1 | 15.5 to 30.7 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the best walleye reel is essential for a successful day fishing. There are many great options available, but the Penn Battle III Spinning Reel is our top spinning reel choice, the Shimano Curado M is our top baitcasting reel choice, and the Shimano Tekota Conventional Reel is our top trolling reel choice. These reels offers a balance of performance, durability, and value that make them great choices for any walleye angler.
Check out our related walleye fishing content!
- Beginner Guide on How to Catch Walleye
- Best Walleye Fishing Techniques
- Best Walleye Fishing Spots in Wisconsin
Check out our articles for great rods to pair with these reels:
Check out our related reel articles:
- Best Baitcasting Reels for Bass
- Best Panfish Reels
- Best Ultralight Spinning Reels
- Best Conventional Reels
Buying Guide – How to Choose The Best Walleye Reel For You
Key factors for choosing the best walleye reel include reel size, line capacity, drag strength, material quality, and fishing technique.
Reel Type
Walleye can be targeted with spinning reels, baitcasting reels, and trolling reels. For jigging, slip bobbers, and small soft plastics, anglers should use a quality spinning reel because these reels handle light weight tackle the best. For throwing medium sized or larger lures, baitcasting reels are preferred for casting accuracy and angler comfort. For trolling behind a boat, conventional trolling reels are your best bet because of their high spool capacities and additional features like line counters to control bait depth.
My family spends 95% of our time walleye fishing using light and medium-light power spinning reel setups vertically jigging or slip bobbers with nightcrawlers, leeches, minnows, or small soft plastics. We like targeting running sloughs on the Mississippi river and tend to pick up walleyes any time there is a depth transition from four to ten feet.
Line Capacity
Line capacity refers to how much fishing line fits on the reel. The total spool capacity is specified by mono vs braid and line strength as pound test. An example line capacity would be “200 yards of 20-pound test braid”.
Braid is smaller diameter than mono at the same line strength which means you can fit more braid on a reel. Also, higher pound test line is larger diameter and will take up more space on the reel spool.
Walleye anglers need between 150 and 200 yards of line on their spinning and casting reels. Line capacity is only a major concern for walleye anglers trolling with large spreads.
Ball Bearings
Ball bearings in fishing reels are small, spherical bearings that reduce friction and increase smoothness of a reel’s operation. They are located within the internal mechanism of the reel and allow the reel’s moving parts to rotate smoothly against each other.
Most quality reels have at least four ball bearings. More ball bearings is usually better because the higher the number of ball bearings, the more friction is reduced and less wear and tear on the internal reel components. That said, ball bearing quality and material choice is also important. I would rather have four high-quality ball bearings than ten low quality bearings.
Most ball bearings are stainless steel but can also be ceramic. Many reels list something like “5+1 bearings” – this reel would be five ball bearings plus one roller bearing.
Drag System
Drag systems on fishing reels provide resistance to the spool as line is retrieved. A loose drag makes it easier for the spool to spin freely and a tight drag makes it difficult to rotate the spool.
Drag systems work using a series of washers or disks pressed together by a drag knob or level (usually on the top of spinning reels). As the drag is tightened, the drag washers are pressed together which increases resistance on the spool. Drag should be set to match the strength and size of the target fish species.
Setting the drag properly is an art. You want the drag tight enough to reel in the fish, but not tight enough where a strong pull could snap your line or cause your fishing knot to fail. When the drag is properly set, a strong pull from a fish should be able to pull some line from your reel.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio on a fishing reel refers to the relationship between the number of turns on the spool for every turn of the handle. For example, a gear ratio of 5:1 means the spool rotates five times for every turn of the handle.
Gear ratio is an important consideration when selecting a fishing reel because it affects the speed at which you can retrieve your line. A higher gear ratio is better for situations where you need to reel long distances or require fast bait presentations. A lower gear ratio is preferred for situations where a lower retrieval rate is desired, like when using finesse techniques.
Most reels have a gear ratio between 4:1 to 7:1. Many medium size reels are around 6.2:1 gear ratio which is a great for most applications.
Material Quality
Material quality is an important consideration for picking a reel. Fishing reels are typically made of a combination of metal, rubber, and plastic parts. The body of the reel is usually made of aluminum or another type of metal to provide strength and durability. Plastic is used for many of the peripheral parts like the handle or drag knob because it is lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
Rubber seals may be used to protect against water, dirt, and sand ingress. High-end reels may have ceramic bearings or higher quality metal components.
Look for reels made of high-quality materials with solid, durable construction.
Walleye Reel Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of reel is best for walleye fishing?
The best reel type for walleye fishing depends on the desired fishing technique. For jigging or using slip bobbers with live bait, spinning reels are best because they can handle these lightweight setups. For casting crankbaits, baitcasting reels are preferred due to their superior casting accuracy and comfort for repeated casts. For walleye trolling, conventional reels are preferred due to their high spool capacities and additional features like line counters.
What size spinning reel is best for walleye fishing?
The all-around best size spinning reel for walleye fishing is a 2500 (or 25 depending on manufacturer). Size 2500 reels are the ultimate size reel for versatility. They are easy to comfortably handle while having enough spool capacity and high enough drag to handle anything a walleye can throw at it.
What rod to pair with walleye spinning reel?
The best rod to pair with a walleye spinning reel is a 7′ medium-light power spinning rod. This type of rod is highly versatile for different walleye fishing techniques while having enough backbone to reel in big walleye and enough sensitivity to detect subtle strikes.
How do you care for walleye reels?
Caring for a walleye spinning reel is important to ensure it performs its best and lasts a long time. Here are a few tips to take care of your reel:
- Rinse the reel with freshwater after each use to remove any salt, sand, or dirt
- Periodically lubricate the moving parts
- Store the reel properly in a dry protected place when not in use
What strength fishing line for walleye reel?
Eight pound test braided line is a great option for walleye spinning reels. Walleye aren’t known for being strong fighters and this lighter line is ideal for getting baits to the target depth. For baitcasting reels, fifteen pound braid is perfect for casting smaller crankbaits for walleye.
How many yards of line do you need for a walleye reel?
Walleye reels should preferably have between 150 and 200 yards of line. This allows for long casts and enough line to get to the target depth. Swapping from mono to braid can help with fitting more line on the spool because braid has a smaller diameter than mono.
Is mono or braid better for walleye fishing?
Braided fishing line is preferable for walleye fishing. Braided line has significantly smaller diameter for the same strength line when compared to mono. This can be key while fishing because wind and waves will constantly be pulling at your line. The smaller diameter means less effect from the elements. Mono also has a tendency to have line twist while braid does not.
How to switch reel from right to left handed?
Most spinning reels are swappable from from right to left handed and vice versa. Unscrew the handle by rotating it backwards while holding the bail to stop it from rotating. Remove the dust cover on the backside of the handle connection. Insert the handle on the opposite side and tighten. Be careful not to drop any small parts!
Written By: Andrew Juran
Andrew is a seasoned angler with over 25 years of experience specializing in walleye fishing on the Mississippi River and assorted lakes in northern Wisconsin. He has caught hundreds of walleye using various techniques and mentored many in the art of walleye fishing. An advocate for sustainable fishing, Andrew is an active member of the Coastal Conservation Association, an organization committed to marine conservation.
For frequent fishing tips, behind-the-scenes looks, and real-time catches, connect with Andrew on Instagram
