Whether you’re a beginner or pro angler, there’s no doubt that pike fishing is one of the most exciting types of fishing there is. Pike can be caught in a variety of environments, from small ponds and streams to larger lakes and reservoirs. So, what’s the best reel for pike fishing?
Best Reels For Pike Fishing Review
We’ll be taking a look at the best reels for pike fishing. We’ll cover both baitcasting and spinning reels, and we’ll recommend a few top-rated models that are sure to help you land more fish. So, whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking for an edge on the competition, read on for all the info you need!
Best Spinning Reels For Pike
1# Daiwa BG MQ Spinning Reel
The Daiwa BG MQ Spinning Reel is a high-quality reel that is built to last. Made from a one-piece Monocoque aluminium body, it is designed for enhanced durability. The Zaion Air Rotor is also extremely lightweight and provides smooth operation. In addition, the quality 6+1 bearing system ensures reliable performance. Lastly, the Automatic Tournament Drag system provides smooth, consistent drag power.
2# Pflueger Supreme Spinning Reel
Looking for a top-quality spinning reel that won’t break the bank? Check out the Pflueger Supreme. This reel is super-light and tough, making it perfect for freshwater fishing. It features a magnesium frame, carbon rotor, and braid-ready machined aluminium spool. Plus, it has a premium 10-bearing system for smooth operation and a sealed drag for reliable performance. And with its aluminium handle and slow oscillation retrieve, this reel is sure to give you the power and control you need to land that big fish.
3# Shimano Ultegra XTD Surf Spinning Reel
Shimano Ultegra XTD Surf Spinning Reel is perfect for the serious surf caster. It offers maximum casting distance with full power and control. Plus, it features Super Slow Oscillation (14000 model) or Slow Oscillation (5500 model), X-Ship for maximum gear durability, XT-7 graphite composite frame, Dyna Balance counterweighted rotor, Elongated aluminium spool, Aero Wrap II for perfect line lay, 4+1 bearing system with Super Stopper II and Extreme drag power. The retrieve rate is 41″ per handle turn.
4# Lew’s Custom Speed Spin Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Custom Speed Spin Spinning Reel is the perfect choice for anglers who demand the very best. With its all-aluminium body and sideplate, flush-and-drain ports (except 100 model), C60 carbon skeletal Speed Rotor, aluminium bail wire, double-anodized, braid-ready knurled aluminium spool, high-strength Speed Gears with aluminium pinion, stainless steel main shaft, premium 10-bearing system, zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing, smooth, sealed carbon-fibre drag, aluminium handle with Winn Dri-Tac knob, and pre-treated with Speed Lube, this reel provides unmatched performance and durability.
5# Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel
The Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel is a top-of-the-line choice for saltwater big game fish. With its astonishing drag performance, it functions as a conventional lever drag reel but with up to 66 lbs. of drag power.
The 60-detent fine-tuning and adjustable drag preset make this reel a versatile choice for any conditions. Additionally, the forged aluminium body, side plate, and rotor with full-body corrosion-resistant coating make the Okuma Makaira Spinning Reel built to last. Finally, the hydro sealed body and drag, solid aluminium manual-trip bail wire, rotor brake, and machined aluminium anodized spool with LCS lip add even more strength and durability!
6# Van Staal X Series Spinning Reel
The Van Staal X Series Spinning Reel is the original no-nonsense, tailless surf spinning reel that is built specifically for the rigours of surf fishing. With maximum performance on every cast, this reel is sure to give you the results you need to bring in a big striper, cobia, or tuna.
The 100% sealed, waterproof drag system kicks out a tremendous amount of drag force at lockdown to ensure that your catch makes it to your feet. Additionally, the massive line capacity lets you keep fishing even when other reels would have run out of line. Engineered for excellence, the Van Staal X Series Spinning Reel is the perfect choice for serious anglers who demand the best.
7# Daiwa Procyon AL Spinning Reel
The Daiwa Procyon AL spinning reel was designed with one purpose in mind: to help you take down your next big fish. Its thicker design makes it easy to flip on the fly, while DIGIGEAR technology promotes better gear meshing for a smooth, responsive performance. Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD) gives you a built-in advantage while fighting fish, and the Long Cast ABS spool’s lip design eliminates wind knots and maximizes casting distance. Generous cut-outs in the rotor reduce overall weight, and the lightweight, strong tubular air bail helps keep things moving smoothly.
8# Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel
The Quantum Cabo PT Spinning Reel is engineered for the most serious anglers. It features 8 PT bearings, hybrid ceramic bearings in high-load areas, a sealed Magnum CSC Drag, and a titanium fail-proof bail system with the magnetic trip. The LMS line management system ensures smooth retrieves and prevents tangles, while the SaltGuard 2.0 multi-layer corrosion protection keeps your reel working smoothly in any environment. The SCR™ alloy body and side cover provide strength and durability, and the Super-hard PT gears ensure consistent performance season after season.
9# Tsunami Shield Spinning Reel
You need a reel that can handle anything the ocean throws your way. That’s where the Tsunami Shield comes in. It features a tightly sealed design that’s perfect for saltwater use, and 10-13 internal shields to protect critical components. Plus, it has a hybrid all-metal, anodized aluminium body for maximum durability. The Heavy-duty bail is also built to last, and the machined aluminium, braid-ready spool ensures smooth operation. Finally, the 4+1 system with sealed stainless steel bearings provides incredible power and performance.
10# Ardent C-Force Spinning Reel
The Ardent C-Force Spinning Reel is amazingly light and strong, thanks to its carbon-rich construction. Featuring a carbon fibre frame and rotor, double-anodized 6061-T6 aluminium spool, and carbon fibre spool backer, this reel is built to last. It also features a smooth 9+1 ball-bearing system and high-speed 5.2:1 gear ratio for quick retrieves. The Carbon Fiber Multi-Stack Drag System provides up to 14 lbs. of drag pressure to handle big fish. And the Machined Handle ensures a comfortable grip while you’re reeling them in.
11# Penn Slammer III Spinning Reel
The Penn Slammer III Spinning Reel is a heavy-duty saltwater fishing reel that is built for strength and reliability. It features an all-aluminium Full Metal Body, side plate, and rotor for added durability, and is sealed to IPX6 specifications to keep the elements out.
The Slammer Drag System uses massive Dura-Drag phenolic-coated carbon-fibre washers for smooth, consistent drag power from 30-60 lbs., while the CNC Gear technology with full brass construction provides extreme cranking power. The 6+1 stainless steel bearing system ensures smooth operation, and the machined aluminium handle knob provides a comfortable grip.
Best Baitcast Reels For Pike
1# Abu Garcia Revo SX RKT Baitcast Reel
The Abu Garcia Revo SX RKT baitcasting reel is the fastest SX yet, with a blazing 9.0:1 gear ratio for effective power fishing. The X2-Craftic alloy frame and crank side plate provide long-lasting performance, while the Ti-coated line guide ensures durability. The Duragear brass gear delivers superior power and efficiency, and the DuraClutch gear engagement system provides improved durability and smoothness. The 9+1 system with stainless steel ball bearings provides smooth operation and Infini’s co-engaging dual brake technology ensures near-limitless adjustability.
2# Daiwa Tatula Elite Baitcast Reel
The Daiwa Tatula Elite Baitcast Reel is a specially engineered reel designed for long-cast performance. It features a lightweight aluminium frame and side-plate, as well as a free-flowing T-Wing System. The spool has been redesigned and is made from super-lightweight A7075 aluminium, and the reel also features an enhanced Magforce braking system. TheZero Adjuster automatic spool alignment system ensures that your line is always perfectly straight, while the smooth 7+1 bearing system provides a smooth and effortless experience.
3# Shimano Metanium MGL Baitcast Reel
Introducing the Shimano Metanium MGL baitcasting reel – a high-performance piece of equipment designed with anglers in mind. Featuring a magnesium core and solid body, this reel is incredibly durable and rigid, providing enhanced sensitivity for those finesse bites.
The S3D spool technology ensures smooth and consistent casting every time, while the Silent Tune system ensures that your catches stay quiet when you need them to. With Hard brass MicroModule gears, an X-Ship pinion support, and shielded bearings throughout, this reel is built to last. The Cross Carbon Drag system provides exceptional stopping power when battling larger fish, while the Ci4+ star drag keeps things light and easy to handle.
4# Lew’s Tournament XP Baitcast Reel
The Lew’s Tournament XP Baitcast Reel is a top-of-the-line choice for serious anglers. Its one-piece aluminium frame and double-anodized, machined aluminium U-spool make it durable and easy to handle, while its premium 10-bearing system ensures smooth operation.
The externally adjustable Multi-Setting Braking system lets you customize your cast to suit the conditions, while the carbon fibre drag provides up to 20 lbs. of drag power. The 95mm aluminium handle with Combat Grip paddle knobs provides a comfortable grip, and the audible-click drag star and cast control knob make it easy to keep track of your settings.
5# Daiwa Zillion SV TW Baitcast Reel
Daiwa’s Zillion SV TW bait cast reel is designed with advanced technology to provide elevated performance. The lightweight aluminium body provides durability, while the T-Wing System wide-aperture line guide ensures smooth and consistent casting. The backlash-inhibiting SV system and SV Booster System 2-stage spool brake provide precise control during fishing, while the Hyper Drive Design and HyperDriveDigigear design ensure smoothness and power.
The Hyper Armed Housing frame and side plate protect the reel against impact, while the Hyper Tough Clutch reinforcement ensures strength and durability. Finally, the 8+1 bearing system provides premium quality for a smooth experience.
FAQ
Conclusion
When it comes to the best reels for pike fishing, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is that not all reels are created equal – some are better suited for smaller fish while others can handle larger ones. The second thing to consider is what type of fishing you’ll be doing.
If you’re mostly casting in open water, then a large reel with plenty of line capacity is ideal. If you’ll be doing more trolling or jigging, then a smaller reel with a higher gear ratio will give you more power and speed when fighting fish. With those factors in mind, we’ve put together this buyer’s guide to help you choose the right reel for your next pike fishing adventure!
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.
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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.
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