10 Best Surf Fishing Reels 2025 in the United States

The PENN Battle III Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel is a solid choice for surf fishing enthusiasts, earning recognition as the 2020 ICAST Online Best of Category for saltwater reels. One of its standout features is the durable all-aluminum construction, which provides excellent resistance to the harsh conditions often encountered in saltwater environments. The 6.2:1 gear ratio allows for efficient retrieval, recovering 35 inches with each turn, making it suitable for catching larger fish.

The reel's HT-100 front drag system is impressive, utilizing carbon fiber washers that can handle a maximum drag of 15 pounds. This means you can confidently battle bigger catches without the reel wearing out too quickly. Additionally, the six stainless steel ball bearings, including an instant anti-reverse bearing, ensure a smooth operation, which is a big plus when you're out fishing for long periods.

It’s important to note that while this reel is designed for inshore use, it may not be the best option for heavier offshore conditions. The max drag of 15 pounds is great for inshore species, but for those targeting bigger game fish, a reel with a higher drag capacity might be needed. Also, some users may prefer a reel with a wider line capacity, especially if they like to experiment with different line types. The PENN Battle III weighs only 11.6 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle for extended fishing sessions. The ambidextrous handle orientation accommodates all users, which is a thoughtful feature.

The PENN Spinfisher VI Spinning Surf Fishing Reel is a robust and reliable choice for surf fishing enthusiasts. Its all-metal construction and IPX5 sealed aluminum reel spool make it highly resistant to corrosion, an essential feature for saltwater environments. The reel's HT-100 front drag system, with a maximum drag of 20 pounds, ensures you can handle larger fish without difficulty.

The precision CNC gear technology and a 6.2:1 gear ratio offer smooth and efficient operation, with a recovery rate of 40 inches per turn, which is quite impressive. Additionally, the reel provides ample line capacity for both mono and braided lines, enhancing its versatility. The six stainless steel ball bearings, including one instant anti-reverse bearing, contribute to the reel's smooth performance and reliability during retrievals. The ambidextrous handle design allows for comfortable use by both right and left-handed anglers.

On the downside, the reel weighs 0.76 pounds, which might be considered heavy for prolonged use. Moreover, while the all-metal construction is durable, it can add to the overall weight, making it less ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear. The manual bail trip for larger sizes (6500-10500) might also require some getting used to for those accustomed to automatic bails. The PENN Spinfisher VI offers excellent durability, smooth performance, and versatility, making it a solid choice for serious surf fishing, though its weight and manual bail trip could be potential drawbacks for some users.

The Daiwa BG6500 BG Saltwater Spinning Reel is designed with surf fishing in mind. Its black anodized machined aluminum housing and oversized Digigear system ensure durability and smooth operation, even in harsh saltwater conditions. The reel's solid screw-in handle provides a sturdy grip, and the air rotor contributes to its lightweight design, making it easier to handle during long fishing sessions. With a line capacity of 25-30 lb. test for mono and 65-80 lb. test for braided line, it offers ample room for heavy-duty fishing lines, which is essential for surf fishing.

The reel can handle a maximum drag of 9.98 kilograms, suitable for tackling large fish often found in surf fishing. Weighing 29.5 ounces, it strikes a balance between robustness and portability. The aluminum and synthetic materials used in construction enhance its resistance to corrosion, a crucial feature for saltwater use. Customer reviews are highly positive, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 3,500 ratings, suggesting a reliable performance.

However, it is worth noting that this reel might be a bit heavy for beginners or those who prefer a lighter setup. Additionally, it is designed for right-hand orientation, which may limit its appeal to left-handed users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Daiwa BG6500 is a solid choice for surf fishing enthusiasts looking for a durable and high-capacity reel.