You can predict your fishing experience by the quality of the fishing reel you have in hand. Whether you are trying to up your trolling game as a hobby or for the Grammies, here’s a list of top-rated line counter reels that will aid your journey.
Here’s a review of 9 Top-rated Line Counter Reels of 2023 that you should consider. Alongside is a comprehensive guide on what to look out for in your purchase.
Top 6 Best Line Counter Reels 2023.
1. Penn Squall II Counter:
This Line Counter trolling reel has a rigid graphite make which allows you to sustain a good drag without fear of immediate wear or break. Its gears run at ratios 4:9:1 providing enough torque and sleek performance.
The power knob is solid and aesthetically pleasing as well.
Penn Squall II Line Counter is available in two sizes;
The Size 20 carries 28 inches line per crank, while the size 30 picks 38 inches.
The capacity marker on the spool is quite easy to read and understand hence making its efficiency top-notch all for an affordable token compared to other fishing line counters.
Pros:
High acceleration rate
Excellent line counter
Provides a great drag
Made of tough material
Long-lasting lifespan.
Cons:
Takeaway:
When it comes to speed and durability, the Penn Squall is gold you should stock up on.
2. Shimano Tekota A500 Line Counter:
The versatility of this line counter trolling reel is highly commendable; as it is available in left-hand models making the product highly inclusive.
It has been highly improved since its initial models, and currently, Tokota sets the bar for other producers with its rigid S-compact build and excellent drag. Hence, you don’t have to panic when trying to reel a big salmon out of the Pacific as long as it’s within the maximum of 24 pounds.
The Tekota A 500 can be trusted for its lightning-fast velocity which grabs 38 inches line per crank.
Summarily, if you came looking for a tough line counter trolling reel, this is one of one.
Pros:
Great drag
Amazing speed
Excellent and rigid material
Affordable line counter
Cons:
Small spool size
Takeaway:
Spool size aside, this line counter gives you on on-par trolling experience in terms of speed, drag system as well as durability.
3. Okuma Magda ProLine Counter:
Okuma has a track record of affordability and selling efficiency go anglers.
Their fishing reel with line counter provides a range of sizes suitable for various ventures where you decide to go fishing.
The Okuma size 15 is a double paddle grip while the advanced sizes contain a knob that controls much more power on the crank.
Whether you’ve got a regular on the line or the catch of your life, the Magda Pro Line counter made from brass gives a smooth trolling from the first crank to the catch offshore.
In all, this one comes at a great price, and its durability is commendable, although its speed may start to lag depending on the size of the fish.
Pros:
Perfect for anglers on a budget.
Great drag
High-quality gears of brass
Commendable capacity.
Cons:
Speed may be constrained by the size of the fish.
Takeaway:
This is a good save for any angler on a budget.
4. KastKing Rekon 20:
Amongst many competitors, KastKing’s deal is a good price for high performance. It offers a superior fishing reel with line counter experience by meeting the needs of Anglers for affordability and excellent materials.
ReKon20 offers smooth drag because it is made of carbon fibers. So whether it’s a shark or a tuna at stake, you can reel assured that the drag won’t crack.
It efficiently runs at a 5:3:1 ratio, and although not lightning fast, it grabs about 30 inches per crank.
Pros:
Good price
Great drag
Efficient capacity
Durable gear material
Cons:
The line is prone to failing.
Takeaway:
A great drag is an attractive offer if you ask me and with the other features, you’ll be up for a nice trolling time with ReKon.
5. Daiwa Sealine SG-3B Line Counter:
If a good reputation is what you need, you can proceed with your purchase for this one straight away because their renowned quality is well-deserved.
The SG-3B Line Counter is made of a one-piece graphite material and a carbon fiber drag which retains rigidity regardless of the weight mounted.
Its available models are 15.4 pounds and 20 pounds. Whereas the biggest size can pick an incredible 42 inches per crank.
The handles come in unique designs; single-paddle counter-balance grips, power grips as well and double-paddle grip models. Whichever one you decide to go with, an excellent grip and cracking torque are guaranteed.
Its performance bridges the gap between most reels and at a good price.
Pros:
Good price
Durable body
Excellent grip
Comfortable handles
Lightning-fast speed
Cons:
The line counter can be finicky.
Takeaway:
Excellent grips and comfortable handles are underrated but with SG-3B you can have both plus more.
6. Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel:
This may not be your best choice if you are trying to take home the record-breaking fish but if you’re simply up against some muskies, way to go with this 20-pound drag-generating reel.
Pro:
Affordable
Resistant to saltwater rust
Lightweight and easy to handle.
Cons:
Not very rigid
Takeaway:
For half the price of most reels, you can get this one and start trolling away.
Right budget?
Guide on How to Choose the Best Line Counter Reel
Drag:
The quality of the drag can either make or mar your reeling experience so here’s a good place to start checking from.
The drag is most crucial for keeping the line from setting loose a struggling fish. This mechanism is designed to apply pressure on the spool so that it operates as a brake to counter sporadic fighting movements from the fish.
A well-functioning drag provides a sleek pull minimizing the surging energy of the fish’s movement.
Speed:
Once you’ve checked for the quality of the drag, you need to confirm the speed. This will determine how long you have to reel for as well as the lifespan of the line.
A line counter with high velocity keeps the line from prolonged strain as well as the fish from an elongated struggle duration. In all, the more the velocity, the more enjoyable your experience will be.
Material:
The function of the reel is to act as an anchor for the line to your rod. Whereas the type of fish may strain the spool and reel, you need to test the product’s material for its strength and durability.
Between graphite and metal, a solid metal body is recommended by most anglers because it’s strong, prim, and more long-lasting.
Capacity:
This indicates how much line your fishing reel is able to hold without carving under the load. This is usually presented as X/Y
Whereas Y represents the number of yards and the X-pound that the line can hold. For instance, a 30/400 reel is interpreted to mean that the reel holds 400 yards of a 30-pound fishing line.
Keep in mind that there are mono and fluorocarbon lines and both vary in thickness.
In choosing the best capacity, it’s better to look for reel sizes instead of going through several yards and line combinations.
Clicker:
This is a simple system that notifies you once a fish takes the bait.
For this, you need a clicker that is audible enough above the sound of the waves.
FAQs
How do I clean a line counter reel?
To clean your reel for proper maintenance, here are steps to follow:
1. Remove the spool
2. Remove any salt or dirt from the gears and other parts using a bristled brush.
3. Wash the reel carefully with soap and warm water.
4. Proceed to dry it with a clean cloth and then store it in dry conditions.
Can I wash my reel with water?
It is not advisable to douse your reel in water but you may clean it with a piece of wet cloth to prevent water from getting into the gears.
Dry the reels with another dry cloth after which you can store it away.
Summary
Each of the above-listed line counter reels comes with its perks, and I’m sure you found “the one” most suitable for your needs.
However, the best line counter reels can only remain effective with proper maintenance so don’t forget to follow the guide for a better decision as well as care for your Line counter reel.