Imagine reeling in a massive fish after a long fight. Your arms ache, and you wish you had an extra set of hands. Electric fishing reels promise to make this struggle a thing of the past. These amazing tools use motors to help you reel in your catch, saving your energy for the fun part: fishing!
But stepping into the world of electric reels brings its own challenges. Which one is powerful enough for deep-sea giants? How do you pick one that fits your budget? With so many brands and features available, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. You want reliable power without getting tangled in confusing technology.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what makes a good electric reel tick. You will learn about battery life, retrieve speed, and the best models for different types of fishing. By the end of this post, you will confidently choose the perfect electric partner for your next big adventure.
Top Electric Fishing Reels Recommendations
- Daiwa TCS500J Tanacom Electric Reel
- Daiwa TCS500J Tanacom Electric Reel
- Daiwa TCS500J Tanacom Electric Reel
- Daiwa TCS500J Tanacom Electric Reel
- Daiwa TCS500J Tanacom Electric Reel
- New LCD display reads out in English for easier programming
- Oversize line guide aperture to clear large knots and kite swivels
- Automatic Stop and jigging features
- Variable-speed power lever Control. Manual winding option
- Line counter and depth memory.12 Volt system (12-16.8 V
- High performance electric that combines the power of an angry wind
- Gear Ratio: 3.6 / Winding Length: 21.7 inches (55 cm)
- Drag Force: 3.5 lbs (16 kg); Weight: 28.7 oz (800 g)
- Standard Line Winding Weight PE (No.-m): 4-500/5-400/6-300 / Normal Winding Speed 2.2 lbs (1 kg) Load (m/min): 135 (150)
- Maximum Winding Force: 165 (83 kg)
- Integrated lithium ion battery
- Variable speed control knob
- Autostop feature for hands free retrieve
- LED Display
- Programmable line diameter for accurate line counter
![Shimano PLEMIO 3000 Big Game [Japan Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41uHTqCcTVL._SL160_.jpg)
- Gear Ratio：3.6
- S A-RB/Roller Bearing：1/0
- Weight：625g
- MAX Drag：10.0kg
- Retrieve：64cm
- Integrated lithium ion battery
- Variable speed control knob
- Autostop feature for hands free retrieve
- LED Display
- Programmable line diameter for accurate line counter
- Standard Weight (g): 740
- Gear Ratio: 2.8
- Maximum Drag Force (kg): 10
- Standard Winding Amount, Bright (No. - m): 5-350/6-300RPA2023 Standard Winding Amount, Nylon 6-330 /7-300. CRBB/Total BB: 3/6. Maximum Winding Force (kg): 43 (48). Normal Winding Speed: 2.2 lbs (1 kg) Load (kg): 135 (150). JAFS Standard Winding Power (kg): 11. JAFS Standard Winding Speed (m/min): 170. Accessories: Reel Bag, Threading Pins, Tools, Japanese Seal. Like electric shock. High power brush motor that instantly transfers power to the gear and winds the anglers desire.
- Standard Weight: 19.4 oz (550 g)
- Gear ratio: 3.6
- Maximum drag force: 22.0 lbs (10 kg)
- Standard Winding Amount, Bright (No.-m): 4-350, 5-300, CRBB, Total BB: 3/4
- Maximum Winding Force: 10.7 lbs (45 kg) / Normal Winding Speed: 2.2 lbs (1 kg) at load: 29.2 lbs (125 kg) / JAFS Standard Winding Power (kg): 9 / JAFS Standard Winding Speed (m/min): 66.9 lbs (170 kg)
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Electric Fishing Reels
Electric fishing reels are fantastic tools. They make fishing easier, especially when you are reeling in heavy fish or fishing in deep water. This guide will help you choose the right one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an electric reel, certain features really matter. These features decide how well the reel works for you.
- Power Source and Battery Life: Most electric reels use a rechargeable battery. Check the battery’s voltage (usually 12V) and how long it lasts on a single charge. Longer battery life means more fishing time.
- Retrieval Speed and Power: Look at the reel’s speed (measured in RPM or meters per minute). Faster retrieval helps when fighting a strong fish. Also, check the maximum pulling power. Strong power handles big catches.
- Line Capacity: This tells you how much fishing line the reel can hold. Deep-sea fishing requires a large line capacity. Make sure the reel holds enough line for the type of fishing you do.
- Durability and Waterproofing: Fishing involves water and sometimes rough handling. Look for reels rated for saltwater use. Good waterproofing protects the motor inside.
- Ease of Use and Controls: The controls should be simple to understand. You want easy buttons for starting, stopping, and adjusting speed.
Important Materials
The materials used in construction affect how long your reel lasts and how much it weighs.
The body of a good electric reel often uses strong, lightweight materials like aluminum or high-grade composite plastics. Aluminum offers excellent strength. Plastic keeps the weight down. Internal gears should be made of strong metal, like stainless steel, for smooth, tough performance. The wiring and connections must resist corrosion, especially if you fish in saltwater.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about price. Good design makes a big difference in performance.
What Makes a Reel Better?
- Smooth Motor Operation: A high-quality reel has a quiet, smooth motor. You will feel less vibration while reeling.
- Excellent Sealing: Superior sealing protects the electronics from splashes and rain. This extends the reel’s life significantly.
- Strong Drag System: The drag system controls the resistance when a fish pulls line out. A smooth, reliable drag prevents line breaks.
What Lowers the Quality?
Cheap plastic housings break easily. Motors that overheat quickly show low quality. If the electronics are not well-sealed, water damage is almost guaranteed. Poor gear construction leads to grinding noises and early failure.
User Experience and Use Cases
Electric reels serve different fishing styles. Think about where and how you fish.
Deep Drop Fishing
If you fish very deep (hundreds of feet down), an electric reel is essential. You need high power and massive line capacity. For these trips, battery life is the most critical feature. You cannot stop mid-trip to recharge.
Jigging and Trolling
For jigging, you need a reel that can retrieve quickly to keep the lure active. For trolling, consistent speed is important. Many anglers use electric reels mounted on boats for these methods. They save the angler a lot of physical strain.
Portability
Some electric reels are small enough to use as an upgrade to a standard spinning reel. If you carry your gear a lot, a lighter, more compact model improves your experience. However, smaller reels often mean less power.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Electric Fishing Reels
Q: Are electric fishing reels hard to use?
A: No, most modern electric reels are very user-friendly. They usually have simple buttons for power and speed control.
Q: Can I use an electric reel manually?
A: Yes, almost all electric reels allow you to disengage the motor and reel manually, just like a regular reel.
Q: Do I need a special battery?
A: Most reels come with a compatible battery, but if you replace it, you must match the voltage (usually 12V) required by the manufacturer.
Q: How do I clean a saltwater electric reel?
A: After saltwater use, wipe the exterior down with a damp cloth. Never spray water directly into the motor housing or control panel.
Q: How much heavier are they than manual reels?
A: They are noticeably heavier because of the motor and battery housing. Expect them to weigh significantly more than standard reels.
Q: What is the main benefit of an electric reel?
A: The main benefit is reduced physical fatigue when fighting big fish or reeling up long lines from deep water.
Q: Will the electronics fail if I get caught in the rain?
A: Good quality reels have high water resistance ratings. Light rain should be fine, but submerging them is never recommended.
Q: Are electric reels allowed in fishing tournaments?
A: This depends entirely on the specific tournament rules. Always check the regulations before using powered assistance.
Q: What is ‘drag pressure’ on an electric reel?
A: Drag pressure is how much force the reel puts on a fish before it lets line out. Higher pressure means it can handle bigger fish.
Q: How long should the battery last on a fishing trip?
A: A fully charged battery usually lasts for several hours of continuous reeling. For a full day of fishing, you might need a spare battery.