When it comes to catfishing, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the fishing reel. Unlike rods, which don’t impact your performance that much (you just need it to be durable), you need a reel that can pull big fish with ease.
One important factor is the type of reel. Baitcasting reels are the most popular choice among catfish anglers due to their accuracy and power. Spinning reels are also a good option for those who prefer a lighter setup. Conventional reels are a viable option too, as they offer more brute power.
Another important factor to consider is the drag system. As for any fish out there, a strong and smooth drag system is essential for fighting big catfish.
After doing some research, I have compiled a list of the best fishing reels for catfish. These reels have been chosen based on their durability, drag system, and overall performance. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, I’m sure one of these reels will to meet your needs.
1. Abu Garcia C3 Catfish Special
Abu Garcia is a well-known name in the fishing industry, and their catfish reels are no exception. The Abu Garcia C3 Catfish Special is a top pick for many catfish anglers.
If you’ve never fished with this kind of reel before, have no worries. You’ll learn how to cast and use it effectively very fast. And when you hook that catfish, you’ll be amazed by the power and smoothness of it.
The standard C3 has been used for years now and the Catfish Special comes with some more quirks and features. They’re a tank when it comes to durability, that’s why some anglers have used the same C3 for more than 20 years.
It features a carbon matrix drag system and a large, smooth handle for power-cranking.
The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Catfish Special is another great option, with its four stainless steel bearings and synchronized level wind system.
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2. KastKing Kapstan Elite Saltwater Spinning Reel
The KastKing Kapstan Elite Saltwater is designed for serious saltwater anglers who are looking for a durable and powerful reel that can handle big game fish. But I figured out, why wouldn’t this reel be suitable for catfishing too?
First, the reel feels solid in hand, and the attention to detail is evident in its construction.
The gear ratio of the Kapstan Elite is suitable for catfishing, providing a good balance between retrieval speed and cranking power. This allows for effective handling of both the bait presentation and the retrieval of heavy fish.
But the main standout is its triple-disc carbon drag system, which provides smooth and consistent drag pressure. This is crucial when fighting large and powerful catfish, as it allows for better control during long battles. The maximum drag is impressive, capable of handling large species without issue.
Casting is smooth with the KastKing Kapstan Elite, thanks to its well-balanced rotor design and uniform line lay. The reel’s spool lip is designed to minimize friction, which allows for longer and more accurate casts. You can cast a variety of weights with precision, which is essential when targeting specific areas where fish are holding.
While catfishing is typically a freshwater pursuit, having sealed components is still beneficial. It protects the reel from dust, debris, and any potential water from rain or splashes, which can be common during catfishing trips.
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3. Penn Spinfisher VI
The Penn Spinfisher VI is a spinning reel series that continues the legacy of the Spinfisher line, known for its durability and performance in harsh saltwater conditions. The Spinfisher VI comes in various sizes to cater to different fishing needs, from light inshore to heavy offshore fishing.
It showcases a full metal body and sideplate construction, which contributes to its overall rigidity and durability. The reel’s design is sleek, with a black and gold color scheme that gives it a classic and professional look. The reel feels substantial and well-built, which is what you would expect from a brand like Penn that has a reputation for creating tough reels.
The Spinfisher VI features the HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, which are known for providing smooth and reliable drag. The drag system is sealed as well, which prevents any water or debris from compromising its performance. The drag is also quite powerful, with the larger models capable of putting out a substantial amount of drag pressure to handle big game fish and catfish, too.
Catfishing requires heavy lines and long casts or the ability to let the fish run with the bait. The Spinfisher VI has a generous line capacity, allowing you to spool enough heavy monofilament or braided line to handle these situations.
The range of sizes available in the Spinfisher VI series means that there is a reel suitable for all types of catfishing, from targeting smaller channel cats in inland waters to going after trophy-sized blues and flatheads in larger rivers or reservoirs. From 2500 to 10500, I’m sure one of them will find its place on your catfish rod.
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4. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel
This reel is one of the best option for those who don’t have hundreds of dollars laying around for a catfish reel. But you should keep in mind that catfishing tends to be a more expensive activity due to the larger and stronger tackle you need to use. Going cheap is not a reliable option, as big catfish will wreck a $20 no-name reel in no time.
One of the key features of the KastKing Rover is its carbon fiber drag system. The drag is smooth and powerful, allowing for up to 30 pounds of drag force, depending on the reel size. This is enough to handle the majority of catfish species. The drag is also easily adjustable, which is essential when fighting catfish that can change directions and pull strength suddenly.
The reel is equipped with premium shielded stainless steel ball bearings, which provide a smooth operation under load. The number of bearings may vary with the reel size, but they all contribute to a smoother cast and retrieve, which is important when spending long hours on the water.
It’s equipped with premium shielded stainless steel ball bearings, which provide a smooth operation under load. The number of bearings may vary with the reel size, but they all contribute to a smoother cast and retrieve, which is important when spending long hours on the water.
While it may not have the finesse of higher-end baitcasting reels, it certainly provides excellent value for its price and is a worthy consideration for both novice and experienced anglers alike.
Regular maintenance will ensure its longevity, and you’ll enjoy the versatility especially if you practice many fishing styles.
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5. Penn Squall Lever Drag
The Penn Squall Lever Drag reel is part of Penn’s popular lineup of saltwater fishing reels, designed specifically for anglers who need a reliable, high-performance reel for both trolling and bottom fishing.
It has a graphite frame and side plates that provide a lightweight yet strong housing for the reel’s internals. The use of graphite also helps to minimize corrosion, which is important if you want the reel to last a long time. The design is compact, and the reel has a sleek, black finish with signature Penn branding.
The key feature of the Squall Lever Drag is its Versa-Drag system with HT-100 drag washers. The drag is adjustable using the lever on the top of the reel, which allows for precise control over the drag pressure. This system provides smooth drag under heavy loads, which is crucial when you fight trophy catfish. The drag is also designed to dissipate heat efficiently, reducing the chance of failure during prolonged battles.
The lever drag control is another standout features of the Squall Lever Drag reel. It allows for quick adjustments to the drag setting, even while fighting a fish. The smooth transition from free spool to strike and then to full drag is essential for precise control during various stages of the fight. This is particularly useful when using live bait or when you need to quickly adjust the drag as the situation changes.
The Squall Lever Drag reels have a moderate to high gear ratio, depending on the model, which provides a good balance between retrieval speed and cranking power. The gears are made of marine-grade bronze alloy, which is both durable and smooth-operating.
The reels are positioned at a mid-range price point, offering a good balance between quality and affordability. They are a solid investment if you’re a serious anglers who wants a reliable lever drag system without venturing into the price range of the highest-end reels.
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Matching Reels with Catfish Rods
Below are some good catfish rods and their favored matches.
| Rod | Reel | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Ugly Stik Catfish | Penn Squall Lever Drag | The Ugly Stik Catfish rod, known for its virtually indestructible construction and sensitivity, is paired with the durable Penn Squall Lever Drag reel, which boasts a powerful and smooth drag system. This combo ensures you can confidently tackle a variety of catfish species, from channels to massive flatheads. The graphite composite rod paired with the lever drag’s precise adjustability offers a balanced setup that’s both user-friendly and capable of withstanding the demands of heavy-duty catfishing. |
| St. Croix Mojo Cat Casting Rod | Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Catfish Special | The St. Croix Mojo Cat is a high-quality rod designed specifically for catfishing. It features a blend of SCII graphite and linear S-glass, which makes it both powerful and responsive. The longer length is great for casting distance and leverage. A good match for this rod is the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Catfish Special round baitcasting reel in the 6500 size. It has a smooth and consistent drag system, a durable frame, and a large line capacity, which is great for heavy lines and big fish. Its synchronized level wind system ensures even line lay and improves casting distance. |
| B’n’M Silver Cat Elite | Shimano Tekota A Levelwind reel | The B’n’M Silver Cat Elite is a heavy-duty rod designed for serious catfish anglers. It features a high-strength fiberglass construction and a non-slip grip handle. The rod is built to handle large catfish and is suitable for various techniques, including drifting, anchoring, and bank fishing. The Shimano Tekota A Levelwind reels are known for their durability and ease of use. They feature a high-efficiency gearing system and a smooth, powerful drag system that can handle the demands of large catfish. The levelwind ensures even distribution of line across the spool, which is particularly important when fighting large fish that can take out a lot of line. The Tekota’s ergonomic design and comfortable handle make it suitable for long fishing sessions, and its overall build quality ensures it can withstand the rigors of catfishing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality catfish reel?
When choosing a catfish reel, there are certain features to consider that can enhance your catfishing experience. Look for a reel with a high line capacity, a strong drag system, and a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of catfishing. Additionally, a reel with a bait clicker feature can help you detect bites and improve your chances of hooking a catfish.
How do bait clicker features enhance catfish reel performance?
Bait clicker features are designed to make a clicking sound when a fish takes the bait. This feature can alert you to a bite, even if you’re not actively watching your rod. This can be especially helpful when fishing in low light conditions or when fishing multiple rods at once. Additionally, bait clickers can help prevent the line from getting tangled and improve your overall fishing experience.
How does reel size impact catfishing effectiveness?
The size of your catfish reel can impact your overall catfishing effectiveness. Larger reels typically have a higher line capacity, making them ideal for targeting larger catfish. However, larger reels can also be heavier and more difficult to handle. Smaller reels are lighter and easier to handle, but they may not have the line capacity needed to target larger catfish.
Can you recommend a durable catfish reel that offers good value for money?
One catfish reel that offers good value for money is the KastKing Rover Round Reel. This reel is designed with a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of catfishing, and it offers a high line capacity and strong drag system. Additionally, the reel is priced affordably, making it a great option for anglers on a budget.
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