Top 5 Walleye Reels: Essential Gear Review Now

Ever feel like your lure just isn’t getting to where the big walleye are hiding? You cast out, but the retrieve feels sluggish, or maybe you’re fighting a fish and your gear just can’t keep up. Choosing the right reel for walleye fishing can feel like a puzzle. There are so many sizes, gear ratios, and brands out there. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a reel that doesn’t quite match your style or the waters you fish.

A good reel is your direct connection to the fish. If it’s too heavy, you get tired casting all day. If it lacks smooth drag, a strong fish might break your line. We know the frustration of losing a trophy walleye because of the wrong equipment. This guide cuts through the confusion.

Inside, we break down exactly what you need in a walleye reel. You will learn about the best types for jigging, trolling, and casting. We will cover the key features that separate the good reels from the great ones. Get ready to upgrade your setup and feel more confident on the water. Let’s dive into finding the perfect spinning or baitcasting reel for your next walleye adventure!

Top Reel For Walleye Fishing Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

KastKing Royale Legend Fishing Reel - 5.2:1/6.2:1 Gear Ratio Spinning Reel, Up to 22 Lbs of Carbon Drag, 5+1/7+1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings, Graphite Frame, Asymmetric Spinning Reel Rotor Design

Affordable Performance - KastKing Royale Legend Glory Spinning Reels feature a lightweight, zero-rust graphite frame and rotor for all day, smooth performance. Double Shielded bearings, oversized main shaft, machined aluminum spool and an ultra-smooth drag make it perfect for both fresh and saltwater fishing.
Smooth & Fast Performance – Royale Legend Glory spinning reel is supported with 7 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings plus an anti-reverse bearing to delivery exceptional and smooth performance even under heavy load. In addition to being smooth, a 6.2:1 high speed gear ratio makes speed a key asset of this fishing reel with a retrieve rate of 38.3 IPT on the 4000. The fast retrieve allows for quick follow up casts when the action is fast and gives the angler more control while fishing.
Advanced Technology – KastKing uses an asymmetric spinning reel rotor design with aerodynamic balance on the Royale Legend Glory reel, which rotates more easily, and has a more balanced feel when reeling in line. Anodized aluminum spool is light and strong while making spooling mono or braided lines quick and easy.
Strength and Durability – KastKing Royale Legend Glory spin fishing reels feature a zinc alloy drive gear, oversized stainless-steel main shaft and a brass pinion gear that delivers incredible, smooth performance even under the toughest conditions.
Triple Disc Carbon Drag – The new KastKing Royale Legend Glory spinning reel has a three-layer carbon fiber disc drag system that gives you the smoothest drag possible for using light fishing lines and leaders. With up to 22 lbs of stopping power, you’ll always be in control.

SaleBestseller No. 2

Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo, Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel

UGLY STIK 7’6” WALLEYE ROUND CONVENTIONAL FISHING ROD AND REEL WALLEYE COMBO: A durable Ugly Stik kit specially designed for fighting and landing walleye. EVA handle balances durability and comfort. Right handle position.
UGLY TECH CONSTRUCTION: 2-piece, Ugly Tech construction combines graphite and fiberglass, for a strong, yet sensitive rod. Includes 7 year warranty on rod. Features on/off bait clicker and double paddle aluminum handles.
SIZE 20 CONVENTIONAL REEL: 2 ball bearing system for smooth operation. Features 8 Stainless Steel guides to provide durability and eliminate insert pop-outs during rough treatment. Rubber rod butt helps keep bracing comfortable.
STAR DRAG: Max drag: 15lb | 6.8kg. system helps keep fighting the fish on your terms. Graphite spool cuts down on weight while remaining strong. Gear ratio of 5.1:1 provides smooth operation and mechanical advantage.
6-12LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM LIGHT POWER: Ugly Stik Clear Tip offers strength and sensitivity. Mono Capacity yd/lb: 290/14 235/17 200/20 (m/mm: 260/0.35 215/0.38 180/.042). Braid Capacity yd/lb: 280/30 230/40 195/50 (m/mm: 260/0.36 210/0.38 180/.041).

Bestseller No. 3

Okuma Avenger New Generation Spinning Reel 2500 5.0:1 Gear Ratio 7 25.80" Retrieve Rate Bearings, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Multicolor

Multi-disc, Japanese oiled felt drag System
6BB + 1RB for ultimate smoothness and performance
Quick-set Anti-Reverse roller bearing

Bestseller No. 4

Reel Cool Grandpa Walleye Fishing Camo American Flag T-Shirt

Vintage walleye fishing design with a camouflage American flag. Perfect for any fisherman who loves walleye fishing, lake fishing, and the outdoors. Great Father’s Day idea for anglers who enjoy catching trophy walleye.
Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem

Bestseller No. 5

KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel – Sealed Carbon Fiber 22LBs Max Drag – 7+1 Stainless BB for Saltwater&Freshwater – 5.2:1 Gear Ratio – Size 500&1000 Perfect for Ice Fishing

NEW DESIGN – Like its gladiator name, the brand new designed KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel is built tough to handle any fishing conditions, whether used as a saltwater reel or freshwater reel. The KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel is superb lightweight fishing reels built with a reinforced graphite body and rotor!
SMOOTH OPERATION – You will love KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel's ultra-smooth, reliable 22 lbs of triple disc carbon fiber drag that allows you to use light fishing lines, oversized stainless-steel main shaft, and strong metal gears for more durability.
K.I.S.S. – The KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel is sealed with a KISS! Spartacus II has a unique water-resistant design for its spool, rotor and body – K.I.S.S. (KastKing Intrusion Shield System). It helps keep water and dirt out of your reel for nonstop fishing action and long life.
DURABILITY – With its Hamai cut precision gears, 7+1 stainless steel shielded ball bearings, brass pinion gear, ceramic line roller, stainless steel hardware, sealed spool, and built with KastKing Affordable Innovation, the KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel is a winner on any body of water.
HIGH-END LOOKS & PERFORMANCE – With its sophisticated Stryker Green color scheme and sure-grip EVA knob, the KastKing Spartacus II Spinning Reel is a standout and a lightweight workhorse. It delivers reliable smoothness and power even in harsh winter conditions, making it an excellent choice for ice fishing. Gear ratios are 5.2:1 for the 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 with performance that you would expect from a much more expensive brand.

Bestseller No. 6

KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Round Baitcasting Reels, Left Handed, Size 20

LINE COUNTER TROLLING REEL – New from KastKing is the ReKon Line Counter Trolling Reel. Available in 3 sizes, ReKon conventional reels will be perfect for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Kokanee, Walleye, Lake Trout, saltwater species, and so much more. Both feature an exceptional, accurate mechanical line counter so that you can consistently keep your bait in the exact zone that is producing fish over and over.
HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPONENTS – The KastKing ReKon baitcasting reels are designed for tough trolling conditions and uses the best components. For smooth and trouble-free operation KastKing uses 3 double shielded, stainless-steel ball bearings in high stress points plus the Instant anti-reverse bearing. KastKing ReKon main gears and worm shafts are made of precision machined brass. Its pinion gear and line guide shaft are high quality stainless-steel.
AMAZING DRAG POWER & FEATURES – The ReKon Line Counter round casting reels use a smooth, carbon disc drag that delivers 30 lbs of fish stopping power (25lb for size 10). Both size reels have a line clicker function that makes releasing planer boards simple and easy. You can use that feature as a strike detection system while trolling. Gear ratio is 5.1:1 on the size 10, 5.3:1 on the size 20 and 4.5:1 on the size 30.
GREAT LINE CAPACITY – KastKing kept these fishing reels as compact as possible while still providing tons of line capacity to anglers using leadcore, heavy braid, or strong monofilament fishing line. The size 10, size 20 and size 30 ReKon cast reel will hold over 250 yards of 20 lb. mono or about 10 colors of Micro Leadcore line and over 320 yards of 25 lb. mono or equivalent braided line respectively.
TWO HANDLE OPTIONS – KastKing designed the handles to be different on the two models for a reason. The size 10 ReKon is mostly for Kokanee, Walleye and Trout so KastKing included a comfortable, double paddle handle with EVA grips. The larger size 20 and 30 reel has a single Power Handle with a comfortable round knob that gives more leverage for larger fish and longer retrieves for Salmon, Steelhead, Lake Trout, Striped Bass, or other uses such as a catfish reel that require more fishing line.

Bestseller No. 7

OriGlam Fly Fishing Reel Fishing Wheel, Fly Ice Fishing Reel Spinning Fishing Reels, Powerful Lightweight Spinning Reels for Freshwater Saltwater (Grey)

√ Wide Application - Fly reels are perfect for freshwater; normal trout riverslakes. The reel is better for beginners and bass fishing. Suitable for redfish, lake trout, steelhead, bass ect
√ Ergonomic Knob Design - For easy drag adjustments on the water, even in cold weather! All it takes is the slight turn of the knob.
√ Ultralight Material - Made of Engineering Plastic,that made it more durable and corrosion resistant in all environment. also give the reel a lighter weight than ordinary ones.
√ No Corrosion - After 90 days of brine immersion test, there is no obvious rust and corrosion phenomenon.
√ Best Gift - Powerful, durable fishing reel suited for normal freshwater and light saltwater use. Perfect for inshore fishing, and for Bass, Stripers, Walleyes, Catfish, and Northern Pike. It’s an awesome gift for man, father or fisherman in Father's Day, Birthday or Christmas.

SaleBestseller No. 8

Summer and Centron Spinning Reels, 12 +1 BB Light Weight, Ultra Smooth Powerful, Size 3000 is Perfect for Ultralight/Summer Fishing by QINGLER

【Ultra Smooth Performance】Our spinning fishing reel is made of twelve quality ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing. Anti Reverse Switch works great to ensure the smooth performance,turn on the switch, it will be kept in the anti-reverse one-way state, designed for reducing noise and offering you smooth and comfortable fishing
【High Line Speed】 Excellent line laying oscillation system, the line speed ratio is 5.1:1, the the maximum fishing force is 13 lb, 3000 series reels is for freshwater fishing
【Ergonomic Design】non-slip abs grip provides a more comfortable feel, the handle is foldable and easy for storage. Left and right rocker arm can be freely exchanged, simple operation, meet different needs of the crowd
【Light weight】Precision machining CNC metal spool is designed with hollow then reduce weight, the spinning reel is light to 7.8 oz, makes it easier to throw and you enjoy the ultimate fishing trips
【Fishing With Ease】Firm and stable holder is used for fixing fishing rod, can bear heavy impact, not easy deformation and damage; big adjusting weight button is easily and effectively control the pressure of the fishing rod when the big fish struggle, is the best combination of light weight, strength, and durability, make you fishing with ease

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Reel for Walleye Fishing

Walleye fishing demands the right gear. A good reel makes a huge difference in how you catch those tricky fish. This guide helps you pick the best reel for your next walleye adventure. We look at what matters most so you can land more fish.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a walleye reel, certain features stand out. These parts determine how well the reel works for you.

Gear Ratio

What it is: This number tells you how fast the spool spins when you turn the handle once.
Why it matters for Walleye: A medium-to-high gear ratio (like 6.2:1 or higher) is often best. This lets you quickly retrieve lures, especially when trolling or jigging fast. A faster retrieve keeps your bait in the strike zone longer.

Drag System

What it is: The drag controls how much resistance the line has when a big fish pulls hard.
Why it matters for Walleye: Walleye fight hard but aren’t massive. You need a smooth, reliable drag. Look for reels with a high number of smooth washers (often carbon fiber or felt). A drag that sticks or surges can snap your line.

Size and Weight

What it is: How big the reel is and how much it weighs.
Why it matters for Walleye: Most walleye anglers prefer medium-sized spinning reels (sizes 2500 or 3000). These sizes hold enough line for deep water but remain light enough for all-day casting. A light reel reduces arm fatigue.

Important Materials in Your Walleye Reel

The materials used in a reel affect its strength and how long it lasts. Good materials mean better performance.

Body Construction

Aluminum or Graphite: Aluminum bodies offer great strength and rigidity, which is good for cranking hard. Graphite bodies are much lighter, making them comfortable for long days of casting. Both work well, but aluminum usually lasts longer under heavy stress.

Spool Material

Machined Aluminum: This is the gold standard for spools. Machined aluminum spools resist bending, hold line shape better, and manage braided lines without slipping.

Gears

Stainless Steel or Brass: High-quality reels use stainless steel or brass gears. These metals handle the pressure of fighting fish better than cheaper, softer metals. Quality gearing ensures smooth operation for years.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all reels are built the same. Pay attention to these details to ensure you buy a quality product.

Ball Bearings (The Smoothness Factor)

More ball bearings generally mean a smoother retrieve. Aim for at least 5 to 7 quality stainless steel ball bearings. However, the *quality* of the bearings matters more than the sheer *number* of them.

Line Management (Reducing Frustration)

Look for reels with anti-reverse switches that instantly stop the handle from spinning backward. Also, check the spool lip design. A well-designed spool lip helps prevent wind knots and line twists, especially when using thin braided line.

Water Resistance

Walleye fishing often happens in damp conditions. Reels with sealed drag systems and corrosion-resistant coatings handle spray and rain much better. This protection significantly extends the reel’s lifespan.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you plan to fish for walleye dictates the best reel type.

Jigging and Casting

For active casting and jigging near structure, you need a light, balanced reel. A smooth retrieve is essential because you are constantly working the lure. Spinning reels are the standard choice here.

Trolling

When trolling with planer boards or downriggers, you need a reel that holds a lot of heavy line and has a very strong drag. Some serious trollers might even opt for a small baitcasting reel, though spinning reels handle this too.

Vertical Ice Fishing

While this guide focuses on open water, remember that ice fishing requires a specialized, smaller spinning reel with an excellent low-speed retrieve to handle short, controlled drops of spoons and jigs.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Walleye Reels

Q: Should I use a spinning reel or a baitcasting reel for walleye?

A: Most walleye anglers choose spinning reels. They handle light lures better, cast easily, and are simpler to use all day long.

Q: What is the best gear ratio for walleye reels?

A: A gear ratio between 6.0:1 and 7.0:1 is usually ideal. This gives you speed without sacrificing too much cranking power.

Q: How much drag power do I really need?

A: Walleye rarely pull harder than 10 to 15 pounds of force. Look for a reel that offers a maximum drag of at least 15 to 20 pounds, ensuring it engages smoothly at the lower settings.

Q: Is a heavier reel better for walleye?

A: No. A lighter reel is better. Lighter reels reduce fatigue when you cast hundreds of times throughout the day.

Q: What line should I spool onto my new reel?

A: Many anglers use 10-15 lb test braided line because it is thin and strong. You must back that with a fluorocarbon leader for invisibility.

Q: Do I need a sealed drag system?

A: It is highly recommended, especially if you fish in rainy or misty conditions. Sealed drags keep water and grit out, protecting the drag washers.

Q: What does “anti-reverse” mean?

A: This feature stops the handle from turning backward immediately. It provides instant hook-sets, which is crucial when a walleye bites your jig.

Q: How important is the material of the spool?

A: Very important. A machined aluminum spool holds its shape under pressure and prevents braided line from digging into itself.

Q: Can I use a saltwater reel for walleye?

A: You can, but saltwater reels are often heavier and overbuilt for freshwater walleye. They might be too bulky for comfortable casting.

Q: How often should I service my walleye reel?

A: If you fish often, clean and re-lube your reel once or twice a year. After a trip in very dirty water, clean it sooner.