Striped bass, commonly known as striper, are a popular game fish for both novice and experienced anglers. When it comes to catching these fish, choosing the right reel is crucial. A good striper fishing reel should be capable of handling the size and strength of the fish, while also being comfortable and easy to use.
When looking for the best reels for striper fishing, there are a few key things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the type of reel you prefer – spinning or baitcasting. Spinning reels are generally easier to use and better for beginners, while baitcasting reels offer more control and accuracy. You’ll also want to pay attention to the reel’s line capacity, drag system, and gear ratio.
We spent hours researching and testing various reels to identify the ones that are best suited for striper fishing. In this article, we’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Best Reels for Striper Fishing
If you are an avid striper fisherman, you know how important it is to have the right reel. A good reel can make all the difference in the world when it comes to landing that big catch. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best reels for striper fishing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these reels are sure to help you reel in your next trophy fish.
Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel for Catfish, Salmon/Steelhead, Striper Bass, Pike,Inshore Surf Fishing Reels, Conventional Reel 4000
This Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a great choice for anyone looking to catch big fish in both freshwater and saltwater.
Pros
- The reel is perfect for trolling, bottom fishing, and other techniques used in freshwater and saltwater offshore fishing.
- The large line capacities easily handles the lengths of braided or monofilament line needed for those applications and targeting species.
- The reel is lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable to use for long periods of time.
Cons
- The drag can slip sometimes, making it difficult to turn around larger fish.
- The reel is not as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market.
- The reel can sometimes be difficult to use straight out of the box.
If you are looking for a reliable and affordable fishing reel, the Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a great option. It is perfect for fishing for a wide range of species, including catfish, salmon/steelhead, striper bass, pike, and inshore surf fishing. The reel is lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable to use for long periods of time.
The reel’s large line capacities easily handle the lengths of braided or monofilament line needed for those applications and targeting species. Additionally, the reel is perfect for trolling, bottom fishing, and other techniques used in freshwater and saltwater offshore fishing.
However, the reel does have some downsides. The drag can slip sometimes, making it difficult to turn around larger fish. Additionally, the reel is not as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market. Finally, the reel can sometimes be difficult to use straight out of the box.
Overall, the Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable fishing reel.
Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Reel Inshore Saltwater Fishing
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable baitcasting reel for striper fishing, the Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Reel is a great option.
Pros
- Smooth, powerful drag system for fighting big fish
- Anti-rust and anti-corrosion treatment for durability in saltwater environments
- Extended bent cranking handles and power knob for added torque
Cons
- Some users reported that the reel could be smoother
- Left-handed version may be difficult to find
- Not as many features as more expensive reels
This reel is engineered for smoothness with 6 stainless ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, making it easy to handle even the biggest stripers. The drag system is powerful and consistent, so you can fight fish without worrying about the reel giving out. The anti-corrosion treatment and aluminum alloy rotating disc make this reel durable enough to handle saltwater environments.
The extended bent cranking handles and power knob offer added torque for hard-pulling fish, and the centrifugal brake applies consistent pressure for an exceptionally precise cast. The forged rocker arm is high-quality and easy to operate, making it a great choice for anglers of all skill levels.
Overall, the Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Reel is a solid choice for striper fishing. It may not have all the features of more expensive reels, but it gets the job done at a fraction of the cost.
Abu Garcia C3 Species Special Baitcast Round Fishing Reel 6500 Striper (New Model) Round Reel
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance reel for striper fishing, the Abu Garcia C3 Species Special Baitcast Round Fishing Reel 6500 Striper (New Model) Round Reel is worth considering.
Pros
- The three stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing provide smooth operation and durability.
- The Carbon Matrix drag system ensures consistent and reliable drag pressure.
- The extended bent handle offers increased cranking power and leverage.
Cons
- The 6 pin centrifugal brake may take some time to adjust to for beginners.
- The synchronized level wind system may require occasional maintenance.
- The reel is only available for right-handed users.
This reel is a great option for striper fishing enthusiasts who want a reel that can withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. The three stainless steel ball bearings and roller bearing provide a smooth and reliable operation, while the Carbon Matrix drag system ensures consistent and reliable drag pressure. The extended bent handle offers increased cranking power and leverage, making it easier to reel in larger fish.
One downside to this reel is that the 6 pin centrifugal brake may take some time to adjust to for beginners. Additionally, the synchronized level wind system may require occasional maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Finally, this reel is only available for right-handed users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and durable reel for striper fishing, the Abu Garcia C3 Species Special Baitcast Round Fishing Reel 6500 Striper (New Model) Round Reel is definitely worth considering.
SUNGOOYUE Fishing Reel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fishing reel, the SUNGOOYUE Fishing Reel might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The reel is lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
- The powerful baitcasting reel ensures smooth running.
- The switch allows you to take up the wire and fight with the fish.
Cons
- The reel is on the smaller side, which may not be suitable for larger fish.
- The quality of the reel is not as high as some other options on the market.
- The reel may not last as long as more expensive options.
The SUNGOOYUE Fishing Reel is a basic option for those on a budget. While it may not be the highest quality reel on the market, it gets the job done. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and the powerful baitcasting reel ensures smooth running. The switch allows you to take up the wire and fight with the fish, making it a decent option for those just starting out.
However, the reel is on the smaller side, which may not be suitable for larger fish. Additionally, the quality of the reel is not as high as some other options on the market, and it may not last as long as more expensive options.
Overall, if you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly fishing reel, the SUNGOOYUE Fishing Reel may be a good option for you.
ExpressLeopard Spinning Reel
If you’re looking for a spinning reel that can handle both saltwater and freshwater, the ExpressLeopard Spinning Reel is a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Pros
- The hardened metal spindle, perfectly meshing drive gears, and precision machined pinions provide fish fighting power.
- The reel is built tough and durable, making it a great value for the money.
- The ultralight design allows for effortless casting and the user-friendly design makes it easy to use.
Cons
- The reel may not be suitable for heavy saltwater fishing.
- The color may vary from the pictures due to different photo cameras, shooting light, and computer settings.
- The reel may have slight deviations in measurement data.
The ExpressLeopard Spinning Reel features improved and enhanced workmanship with an all-metal body, two-color anodized and precision-machined single-piece frame after polishing. The surface of rotor parts is protected by a phosphating coating to enhance wear resistance. The huge CNC aluminum spool allows you to easily put more and heavier lines on your reel for bigger fights and helps you to last longer and faster. A powerful handle will help you dominate every battle.
This spinning reel also has consistent and powerful resistance with premium oversized carbon washers that give you extra resistance and a sealing rubber ring that protects you from water and dust. Whether you’re chasing a tournament kicker or spending a day on the lake with the kids, these drag features provide the ultimate experience. The reel is suitable for every environment and is a fast, strong, durable reel for heavy freshwater and light saltwater use. It’s great for inshore fishing, as well as bass, stripes, walleye, catfish, and northern pike.
In summary, if you’re looking for a spinning reel that is both versatile and easy to use, the ExpressLeopard Spinning Reel is a great choice. Its ultralight design and user-friendly features make it a great option for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best reel for striper fishing, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Reel Size
The size of your reel will depend on the size of the fish you are targeting. For striper fishing, you will want a reel that is at least a size 4000 or larger. This will give you the power and line capacity you need to handle bigger fish.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of your reel determines how quickly you can retrieve your line. For striper fishing, you’ll want a reel with a gear ratio of at least 6:1. This will allow you to quickly reel in your line and keep up with fast-moving fish.
Drag System
The drag system is what allows you to control the tension on your line when a fish is pulling. Look for a reel with a smooth and reliable drag system that can handle the power of a striper. A carbon fiber drag system is a good choice for striper fishing.
Line Capacity
Make sure your reel has enough line capacity to handle the size of fish you are targeting. A reel with a line capacity of at least 200 yards of 20-pound test line is ideal for striper fishing.
Construction and Materials
Choose a reel that is made from high-quality materials and is built to last. Look for features like corrosion-resistant materials, sturdy construction, and a comfortable handle for extended use.
By considering these factors and choosing a reel that meets your specific needs, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable striper fishing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best spinning rods for catching striped bass?
When it comes to spinning rods for catching striped bass, you want to look for a medium-heavy to heavy power rod with a fast action. Some of the best options on the market include the St. Croix Avid X, Shimano Teramar TMS-X70MH, and the G. Loomis E6X.
Which baitcaster reels are recommended for striper fishing?
For baitcaster reels, you want to look for something with a high line capacity and a strong drag system. Some of the top options for striper fishing include the Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast, Shimano Tranx 300/400, and the Daiwa Lexa 300/400.
What are the top freshwater striper rods?
When it comes to freshwater striper rods, you want to look for a medium-heavy to heavy power rod with a fast action. Some of the best options on the market include the Fenwick HMG, G. Loomis E6X, and the St. Croix Bass X.
What is the best jigging rod for striped bass?
For jigging, you want a rod with a fast action and a sensitive tip. Some of the best options for striped bass jigging include the Shimano Trevala, Penn Carnage II Jigging, and the St. Croix Mojo Jig.
Can you recommend a good Penn reel for striper fishing?
Penn is a popular brand for striper fishing, and some of the best reels they offer include the Penn Slammer III, Penn Spinfisher VI, and the Penn Battle II.
How much fishing line do you need for striper fishing?
The amount of fishing line you need for striper fishing depends on the size of the fish you are targeting and the type of fishing you are doing. Generally, you want to have at least 200 yards of line on your reel, but some anglers prefer to have up to 300 yards or more.