Best Saltwater Fishing reels

Saltwater fishing comes with its own challenges but also excitement. For your pursuit of the catch of the year, you’re going to want a specialized reel for saltwater fishing. There are numerous options available on the market. In this article, we advise how to make your choice and provide seven of the best options for you to select from.

Is There a Difference Between Fresh and Saltwater Reels?

There are some differences between the reels used for fresh and saltwater fishing. The main difference is the casting material. Saltwater is harsh water and can often cause corrosion on solid metal objects. Therefore, saltwater fishing gear is often made of full metal body with special castings designed to resist this damage.

If you were to use a freshwater reel out at sea, then you can expect damage to appear very quickly. You would need to replace it after just a couple of trips and this can be expensive.

What is the Difference Between Inshore and Offshore Saltwater Fishing?

The differences between inshore and offshore saltwater fishing are very simple. Offshore fishing, otherwise known as ‘deep sea’ fishing is when you’re going beyond thirty meters deep. This can also include a wide range of activities. Offshore fishing species are often some of the largest and require a bigger reel.

In contrast, inshore finishing, also known as ‘bay fishing’ refers to just about anything else. Normally, you would be fishing in locations such as in an inlet or near the coast.

How do I Choose a Saltwater Fishing Reel?

There are numerous things to consider when you’re choosing between reels for saltwater fishing. One of the key considerations is what you’re fishing for. Fishing for larger catches will require you to have a more powerful reel than those looking for smaller catches.

There is also the location. Many inshore fishing species require smaller reels whereas those fish that you’re going to catch offshore will require a larger reel.

You will also need to consider your fishing technique. If you prefer a certain style of catching your fish, then you need a reel that will complement you. Choosing the right reel for saltwater fishing for your style will allow you to cast your line with precision and reel in the fish when they take the bait.

Are Spinning Reels Good for Saltwater Fishing?

Considering the damage that salt water can do to reels, many beginner and experienced fishermen expect that spinning reels aren’t good for saltwater. However, in the past 10-20 years, spinning reels have been designed and produced that can cope with the harsh saltwater environment.

They’ve also grown in size.

Some top-of-the-line spinning reels are more than capable of handling some of the most powerful species like big tuna, sailfish, Pacific halibut, marlin and tarpon.

What Size of Reel do you Need for Saltwater Fishing?

The size of your reel will determine the species that you can catch. When you are deep-sea fishing, you require one of the larger reels. At a minimum, you should be looking at a minimum of 6000. This size of the reel will help you catch redfish, striped bass, snook and salmon.

If you’re looking to catch some of the largest fish, then you might need to use a 30,000 reel. These can catch tuna and sailfish.

What is a size 4000 reel good for? Is a 4000 reel good for inshore fishing?

A size 4000 reel is a good-sized reel for those who are passionate about inshore seawater fishing. The size of the reel is perfect for catching fish like catfish, snapper, redfish, snook and muskie. However, the 4000 reel is not a good option if you’re looking to fish further out to sea or looking for larger species.

What is a size 1000 reel good for?

The 1000 reel is not a great reel for most saltwater fishing. You can catch some of the smaller fish that you will find in bays and harbors, but the size 1000 reels are generally considered to be an ultra lightweight fishing size.