When bowfishing, the reel is the most important piece of tackle if you want a hassle-free retrieve and to be sure the fish gets on the land.
With so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best for you? That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top bow fishing reels for 2024.
After scouring the internet and reading countless reviews, I’ve found that the Muzzy 1097 XD is the best overall bow fishing reel for 2024. It’s engineered for supreme durability, features a high-strength line, and is simple to operate. With a strong brass and stainless steel drive system, dual-spool bearings, and automotive-style disk drag, you can harness the power to land some seriously impressive creatures.
But the Muzzy 1097 XD isn’t the only great option out there. The AMS Bowfishing Retriever Pro Reel is the best high-end reel on the market. It’s designed with a zero-drag system that makes it easy to retrieve your catch, even in deep water. And if you’re looking for the most durable option, the Zebco 808 is the way to go. Its all-metal gears and ceramic pickup pins make it virtually indestructible.
Without further ado, let’s discover an in-depth review of these reels.
Best Spincast Reel
Spincast reels are the most common type of bowfishing reels, and they are perfect for beginners. They are easy to use and come at an affordable price.
Along the Muzzy, the Zebco 808 is a popular spincast reel that is known for its durability and smooth performance. It features a 2.6:1 gear ratio, which is slow, I know. It is not suitable for heavy-duty bowfishing.
The spool is designed to hold a significant amount of line, which is beneficial when fishing in deeper waters or when battling larger fish that tend to run.
It’s worth noting that while the drag system is adequate for the reel’s intended use, it may not offer the precision of more advanced systems found on higher-end reels.
The push-button casting mechanism is intuitive, and the reel’s design helps prevent line tangles, which can be a significant advantage when bowfishing, as it allows for quick follow-up shots if needed.
The Zebco 808 is an affordable reel, which makes it a perfect choice if you’re on a budget or for you don’t bowfish that often and cannot justify the expense of a specialized bowfishing reel. It offers reliable performance for the price and is backed by Zebco’s reputation for producing durable fishing gear.
Best Drum Reel
Drum reels are ideal for intermediate to advanced bowfishermen who require a higher line capacity and faster retrieval rate. The Fin-Finder Heavy Duty Drum Reel is a popular choice among bowfishermen. It has a high line capacity and is built to withstand heavy use. However, it is relatively heavy and can be challenging to use for beginners.
The simplicity of a drum reel is one of its main advantages. It’s easy to operate, with a design that likely allows for quick line deployment when shooting at fish. Retrieval is typically manual, requiring you to wind the line back onto the drum by hand.
Without a mechanical line retrieval system, it’s up to you to keep the line organized and prevent tangles.
It’s priced reasonably compared to other bowfishing reels, especially considering its robust construction and ease of use. If you prefer the tactile feel and direct control of a manual reel, the Fin-Finder Heavy Duty Drum Reel is an excellent choice.
Retriever Reels
Retriever reels are the most advanced type of bowfishing reels. They are designed for experienced bowfishermen who require a fast retrieval rate and high accuracy.
The AMS Bowfishing Retriever Pro Reel is a top-of-the-line retriever reel that features a zero-drag system, which allows you to retrieve your line quickly and accurately. It is also durable and easy to use. However, it is relatively expensive compared to other types of bowfishing reels.
One of the standout features of the Retriever Pro is its no-button line retrieval system. Instead of a traditional crank handle, the line is retrieved by simply pulling it back in hand-over-hand. This can greatly increase the speed at which an arrow can be shot and retrieved, probably the most important factor in bowfishing where quick follow-up shots are necessary. The reel typically comes with a heavy-duty line that is well-suited for larger fish.
Compatibility with various bows is a strong point for the Retriever Pro, as it can often be attached to both recurve and compound bows used in bowfishing.
It’s often been used to target big game fish, and it holds up very well despite repeated abuse.
The Cajun Winch Pro Bowfishing Reel is another popular retriever reel that is known for its durability and smooth performance. It features a fighting wheel brake that slows a fish’s run while simultaneously reeling, ceramic string guides for smoother string feed, and a rugged aluminum frame. It is relatively lightweight and easy to use.
The price of the Cajun Winch Pro is in the mid to high range, with its advanced features and the quality of construction. While it may be more expensive than some entry-level reels, the additional cost can be justified by its better functionality, durability, and the convenience it provides to you.
Hope this post helped you make a final choice and you’ll arrow some nice fish with the reels.
Final advice, don’t get too caught up in the technical aspects of this sport. Choose a reel that suits your conditions the best and don’t overthink it.
Until the next one, tight lines!
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality bowfishing reel?
When looking for a high-quality bowfishing reel, there are a few features to consider. Firstly, you should look for a reel that is engineered for durability, with high-strength line and a simple operating system. You should also look for a reel with a smooth and reliable drag system, as well as a large line capacity. Finally, a good bowfishing reel should be easy to mount and adjust, and should fit securely on your bow.
How do I properly set up a bowfishing reel on my bow?
Setting up a bowfishing reel on your bow is a fairly straightforward process. Firstly, you will need to attach the reel to your bow using the mounting hardware provided. Once the reel is securely mounted, you should attach your bowfishing line to the reel, making sure that it is wound on tightly and evenly. Finally, you should adjust the drag system to your desired setting, and then you’re ready to start fishing.
Can spincast bowfishing reels be used effectively on both compound and recurve bows?
Yes, spincast bowfishing reels can be used effectively on both compound and recurve bows. However, it is important to make sure that the reel is compatible with your specific bow model, and that it is mounted securely and adjusted properly.
What are the advantages of using an AMS Bowfishing Reel over other brands?
AMS Bowfishing Reels are known for their durability, reliability, and ease of use. They are also designed specifically for bowfishing, with features like a retriever system that allows you to quickly and easily retrieve your catch. Additionally, AMS Bowfishing Reels are compatible with a wide range of bows, making them a versatile choice for bowfishermen of all skill levels.
How does the MegaMouth reel compare to traditional bowfishing reels?
The MegaMouth reel is a newer type of bowfishing reel that is designed to be more compact and lightweight than traditional reels. It features a unique line management system that allows you to quickly and easily retrieve your line, and it is also designed to be more durable and resistant to corrosion than traditional reels. However, it is important to note that the MegaMouth reel may not be suitable for all types of bowfishing, and that traditional reels may still be a better choice for some fishermen.
What is the recommended method for mounting a bowfishing reel to ensure stability and accuracy?
The recommended method for mounting a bowfishing reel is to use the mounting hardware provided, and to make sure that the reel is securely attached to your bow. You should also make sure that the reel is adjusted properly, and that the line is wound on tightly and evenly. Additionally, it is important to practice proper shooting technique to ensure accuracy and stability when using your bowfishing reel.
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