5 Best Reels for Walleye Fishing

Walleye can sense even the slightest vibration in your line, making reel smoothness crucial to avoid spooking them.

A reel must match their sensitivity and withstand their powerful runs and sharp gill plates.

Whether trolling the Great Lakes or jigging in inland waters, the right reel is essential for a successful fishing trip.

Let's explore five top reels that will help you catch more walleye this season.

Key Takeaways

• Pflueger President Spinning Reel offers excellent value with its 7-ball bearing system and 6-pound drag, perfect for general walleye fishing.
• Piscifun Carbon X Spinning Reel's 33-pound drag capacity and lightweight carbon fiber construction make it ideal for trophy walleye.
• Okuma Avenger delivers reliable performance with 22-pound drag capacity and ergonomic design for extended fishing sessions.
• Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter excels in trolling with precise depth control and 4.0:1 gear ratio for controlled presentations.
• KastKing Centron provides budget-friendly features with 17.5-pound drag and 9+1 bearings, suitable for ice fishing applications.

Pflueger President Spinning Fishing Reel

Searching for a versatile and budget-friendly spinning reel that maintains quality? The Pflueger President spinning reel boasts a smooth 7-ball bearing system and reliable instant anti-reverse feature. Its lightweight graphite body and rotor are complemented by an aluminum handle and soft-touch rubber knob, suitable for both right and left-handed anglers.

With a 5.2:1 gear ratio and 20.2 inches per crank recovery rate, it provides excellent control for walleye fishing. The sealed oil felt front drag system offers up to 6 pounds of maximum drag, perfect for larger fish fights. The aluminum braid-ready spool fits various line types, including mono (200/2, 100/4, 80/6) and braid (180/4, 125/6, 100/8), making it versatile for different fishing scenarios.

Ideal For: Beginner to intermediate anglers seeking a reliable and smooth-operating reel offering great value with professional-grade features.

Pros:

• Smooth operation with 7 ball bearings and anti-reverse system
• Lightweight graphite build and ambidextrous design
• Offers value akin to higher-priced reels

Cons:

• No spare spool for quick line changes
• Size markings on the reel body could be clearer
• Maximum drag of 6 pounds may not suffice for larger game fish

Piscifun Carbon X Spinning Reel for Fresh and Saltwater

The Piscifun Carbon X Spinning Reel is notable for its 33-pound max drag system, making it ideal for anglers targeting trophy walleye. Weighing just 5.1 ounces, its lightweight carbon fiber construction reduces fatigue during long sessions. The reel features 10+1 shielded stainless steel bearings for smooth operation and three oversized carbon washers for reliable drag performance.

Choose between two gear ratios: 5.2:1 for finesse techniques or 6.2:1 for faster retrieval. The braid-ready design adds versatility, though regular maintenance is needed, especially after saltwater use. While some question its value compared to cheaper options, its features and performance make it a solid choice for both casual and serious walleye fishing.

Best For: Walleye anglers seeking a lightweight, powerful reel with high drag capacity to reduce fatigue.

Pros:

• Lightweight 5.1-ounce carbon fiber construction
• Powerful 33-pound max drag system with three oversized carbon washers
• Versatile gear ratios (5.2:1 and 6.2:1) for varied techniques

Cons:

• Requires frequent maintenance, especially post-saltwater use
• Screw-in handle may loosen during intense use
• Questionable value compared to cheaper models with similar components

Okuma Avenger Graphite Body 7 Ball Bearing Freshwater Spinning Reel

For serious walleye anglers seeking a blend of performance and value, the Okuma Avenger spinning reel is an ideal choice. Its 7-ball bearing system, featuring 6 standard bearings and 1 roller bearing for anti-reverse, ensures smooth operation during retrieves and fish fights. The reel's multi-disc Japanese oiled felt drag system offers consistent line release, and the maximum drag of 22 pounds provides ample stopping power for larger walleye.

The ergonomic grip design minimizes fatigue during long fishing days, while the graphite body keeps the reel lightweight at just 290 grams. It effectively handles both monofilament and braided lines. While some users report occasional handle looseness, the overall build quality and performance rival more expensive models, offering excellent value for dedicated walleye fishing.

Best For: Dedicated walleye anglers looking for a reliable, mid-range spinning reel with smooth performance and good value.

Pros:

• Smooth 7-ball bearing system with quality Japanese oiled felt drag
• Compatible with both monofilament and braided lines
• Lightweight graphite construction with ergonomic grip design

Cons:

• Occasional handle looseness reported
• Limited warranty details
• May require more frequent maintenance than higher-end models

Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel

Professional anglers looking for precision in walleye trolling will find the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel ideal. Its mechanical line counter measures in feet, ensuring consistent depth control. The lightweight graphite frame and corrosion-resistant components make it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Weighing just 16 ounces, this left-handed reel won't tire you during long fishing days. It boasts a 420-yard line capacity with 20 lb test line, and the multi-disc carbonate drag system, rated at 7 kilograms, offers smooth operation against larger fish. The self-lubricating gear system and stainless steel ball bearings ensure reliable performance, with a 4.0:1 gear ratio providing ample power for controlled trolling.

Best For: Serious walleye and salmon anglers who need precise depth control and reliable performance in both freshwater and saltwater at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Accurate line counter system for maintaining trolling depths
• Durable corrosion-resistant construction for diverse environments
• Excellent line capacity and smooth drag system at a competitive price

Cons:

• Left-handed design may not suit everyone
• Some reports of initial line counter accuracy issues
• 4.0:1 gear ratio might be too slow for certain techniques

KastKing Centron Spinning Reel for Ice Fishing

Budget-conscious walleye anglers will find the KastKing Centron Spinning Reel offers excellent value without sacrificing key features. With 9+1 ball bearings and a CNC aluminum spool, it ensures smooth performance and even line lay during ice fishing. Its lightweight design, at just 0.26 kg, prevents fatigue during long ice sessions.

The 17.5-pound max drag system provides ample stopping power for most walleye encounters, while the 5.2:1 gear ratio allows versatile retrieval speeds. A narrow graphite frame and computer balancing system ensure stability, and the collapsible handle offers easy transport. Ideal for casual to moderate anglers, careful maintenance is needed to avoid rust in wet conditions.

Best For: Ice anglers on a budget seeking a lightweight, feature-rich reel for walleye fishing without needing premium durability.

Pros:

• Smooth operation with 9+1 ball bearings and CNC aluminum spool at a budget-friendly price
• Strong 17.5-pound max drag system for reliable stopping power
• Lightweight and portable with a collapsible handle for easy transport

Cons:

• Requires extra maintenance to prevent rust in wet conditions
• Some durability concerns when handling larger fish
• Occasional backlash issues reported with certain models

Factors to Consider When Choosing Reels for Walleye Fishing

When choosing a reel for walleye fishing, you'll need to take into account several critical factors that directly impact your fishing success. Your reel's drag system must be smooth and reliable for fighting those notorious walleye head shakes, while the gear ratio should match your preferred fishing techniques, whether you're trolling or jigging. The reel's line capacity, overall size, and bearing quality will determine its performance in different conditions, from deep-water fishing to handling various lure weights.

Drag System Performance Requirements

The drag system on your walleye reel is crucial for success. Ensure the reel has a maximum drag rating of 6-7 pounds for controlling initial fish runs. Opt for multi-disc drag systems with felt or carbon washers for smooth line release and to prevent break-offs.

A sealed drag system is essential to protect against water and debris, maintaining performance in various fishing conditions. Prioritize reels with easily accessible drag adjustments for quick modifications during a fight. Fine-tuning drag settings is key to landing a trophy, especially with sudden walleye runs.

Choose a reel with gradual, adjustable drag resistance to handle powerful runs smoothly, preventing line snap.

Gear Ratio Selection Guide

Selecting the right gear ratio ensures optimal retrieval speed and power for walleye fishing. A moderate ratio of 5.2:1 offers versatility, balancing speed and pulling power for general fishing. For active walleye or jigging, choose a high-speed reel with a 6.2:1 ratio or higher for quick retrieval. In heavy cover or targeting larger walleye, a 4.0:1 ratio provides the torque needed to handle challenging spots. Finesse techniques benefit from a moderate gear ratio, offering better lure control. Always consider your fishing style and typical conditions when choosing a gear ratio.

Line Capacity Needs

Proper line capacity is crucial when choosing a walleye fishing reel. Ensure your reel holds at least 200 yards of 6-pound monofilament line for deep-water fishing and handling long runs from strong fish.

Consider the line type—braided lines require less physical capacity due to their smaller diameter. Opt for a reel that accommodates both mono and braided lines for versatility in different conditions. Extra line capacity is beneficial for deep-water fishing, allowing lighter lines without losing depth capability.

A reel with higher line capacity offers more options for line weight and type, enhancing your ability to consistently land walleye in various scenarios.

Reel Size Considerations

Choosing the right reel size is crucial for successful walleye fishing. Opt for sizes between 2000 and 4000 to achieve a good balance of line capacity and drag strength. The 2000 size is ideal for lighter lines, while 3000 and 4000 sizes offer more capacity and stronger drag for larger walleye in heavy cover.

Consider the gear ratio when selecting a reel; a 5.2:1 ratio offers an optimal mix of speed and torque for walleye retrieval. Ensure your reel has a maximum drag of 10-20 pounds for controlling larger fish. Additionally, select a lightweight reel to prevent fatigue during long fishing sessions, especially if you plan on extended casting or trolling. This combination of factors will enhance your walleye fishing experience.

Bearing Quality Importance

For walleye fishing, the quality of your reel's bearings is crucial. Opt for reels with at least 7 ball bearings for smooth operation and precise bait presentations. Stainless steel bearings are ideal due to their corrosion resistance in both freshwater and saltwater.

Ensure your reel has an Instant Anti-Reverse bearing for quick hook-setting, essential during aggressive walleye strikes. Regular maintenance, including lubrication and cleaning, is necessary to keep your reel performing well, especially after tough fishing conditions.

Investing in high-quality bearings ensures smoother retrieval and better functionality. The bearing system directly affects bait presentation, so prioritize quality to enhance your walleye fishing success.

Fresh Vs Saltwater Design

Choosing between freshwater and saltwater reels is crucial for walleye fishing success. Freshwater reels, made with lighter materials, are ideal for the precise techniques needed in this type of fishing. They feature a lower maximum drag system, offering excellent sensitivity and control.

Saltwater reels, on the other hand, are built with corrosion-resistant materials and robust components, including stronger drag systems and heavy-duty bearings. While not always necessary for walleye fishing, they are useful in brackish waters or harsh conditions. Their higher gear ratios offer quick retrieval speeds, though this is not a primary concern for walleye fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Clean and Maintain My Walleye Fishing Reel?

You should clean and maintain your fishing reel after every fishing trip and perform a deep clean every 3-4 outings. After each use, wipe down your reel with a damp cloth to remove dirt and salt. For deep cleaning, disassemble the reel, clean all parts with warm soapy water, dry thoroughly, and apply reel oil to moving parts. Don't forget to check for wear and replace worn parts as needed.

Can I Use Braided Line on All Walleye Fishing Reels?

You can use braided line on most walleye fishing reels, but you'll need to take into account a few factors. Your reel should have a good line management system and a sturdy drag to handle braid's low stretch properties. Make sure to check your reel's specifications, as some manufacturers recommend specific line types. You'll also want to use a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader with braid to improve stealth and prevent line visibility.

What's the Average Lifespan of a Quality Walleye Fishing Reel?

Picture a well-maintained fishing reel spinning smoothly year after year. With proper care, you'll get 5-7 years of reliable use from a quality walleye reel. You can extend this lifespan by cleaning it after each trip, lubricating moving parts annually, and storing it in a dry place. If you're using your reel frequently (weekly fishing trips), you might need to replace it sooner, while occasional anglers can see their reels last up to a decade.

Should I Store My Walleye Reel Differently During Off-Season Months?

You'll want to store your reel properly during off-season to extend its life. Clean it thoroughly with fresh water, dry it completely, and loosen the drag to prevent spring fatigue. Store it in a climate-controlled space, away from extreme temperatures and moisture. You should also apply a light coat of reel oil to metal parts to prevent corrosion, and keep it in a padded case or reel bag for protection.

Are Left-Handed Walleye Fishing Reels as Readily Available as Right-Handed Ones?

You'll find that left-handed fishing reels, often called "leftie" reels, are readily available but typically have a smaller selection compared to right-handed models. Most major manufacturers like Shimano, Daiwa, and Abu Garcia produce left-handed versions of their popular reels, though you might need to special order them at some shops. You can also look online, where you'll find a wider variety of left-handed options at competitive prices.

Conclusion

Selecting the ideal walleye reel can be surprisingly challenging for anglers. Whether you prefer the finesse of the Pflueger President or the power of the Carbon X, your choice should match your fishing style and budget. Consider factors such as drag strength, bearing count, and intended use when making your decision.