With two-speed reels, you can forget about missing a catch due to your reels gear ratio. Two-speed reels come with two gear ratios so you can deal with different species. Whether you are looking for a reel for saltwater or freshwater applications, you can be assured that two-speed reels will not disappoint.
However, these reels are a little expensive compared to one-speed reels. If you do not mind the price, I would recommend you get the two-speed reels. With them, it won’t matter where you are fishing from or the species you will encounter. Here are some of the best two-speed reels for the money.
Comparison Table of 2 Speed Reels
| Image | Product | Features | Buttons |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  |
| 9.9 | Check On Amazon |
 |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
 |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best for Offshore  |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Not Recommended  |
| 9.7 | Check On Amazon |
1. Penn Squall Lever Drag 2-Speed Trolling Fishing Reel
- Material : Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Graphite
- Weight (oz) : 55.6
- Max Drag (lb) : 40
- Gear Ratio : 2.9:1 / 1.5:1
- Ball bearings : 4
Available in three different sizes every angler can choose their perfect choice. With the graphite construction, you can be sure of the reel’s lightness and strength for big game fishing. The two-speed quick shift feature makes it possible to shift into high or low gear. This way, you can engage fast and slow reacting fish.
The saltwater lever drag gear comes with a powerful Dura-Drag system that eliminates snags even under extreme settings. Also, a double dog ratchet system helps prevent the handle from reversing hence giving you more leverage.
The forged and machined aluminum spool makes your fishing easier due to the line capacity rings. This way, you can tell how much line you have left. Moreover, you are assured of a smooth feel when fishing due to the four stainless steel bearings.
Key Features
- Quick-shift two-speed system
- Dura-Drag system
- Spool material Aluminum
- Double-dog anti-reverse
- Stainless steel pinion and main gear
- Drag Type lever drag
You may also read : What are the differences between Penn Warfare vs Squall ?
2. Shimano TLD 2-Speed Conventional Reel
- Material : Graphite
- Weight (oz) : 37.5
- Max Drag (lb) : 33
- Gear Ratio : 4.0:1
- Ball bearings : 4
When bottom fishing, this is the go-to 2-speed reel. They are ideal for bluewater species like Tuna and striped marlin. They are super easy to shift, so you don’t have to worry about missing a catch. The construction consists of a graphite frame and side plates; therefore, they will feel light in your hand and maintain their strength.
The handle is made ergonomically to ensure comfort for the angler even after long hours of fishing. The handle cranks easy, and the larger 50 size reels have an offset ergonomic power grip. On the other hand, the anti-rust bearings make the reel perfect for saltwater fishing as they are corrosion-resistant.
Key Features
- Graphite frame
- Graphite side plates
- Ergonomic power handle
- Aluminum spool
3. Shimano Speedmaster 2 Speed Lever Drag Saltwater Fishing Reel
- Gear Ratio - 5.7:1 / 3.1:1
- Max Drag: 40lbs |
- Weight: 25.7oz |
- Bearings: 4
- Fishing line Type : Monofilament
These two-speed lever drag reels are ideal for all your offshore fishing applications. Available in four different sizes, every angler can find their most desired products. Its construction consists of a HAGANE body and HAGANE concept gears with an S compact body.
The four anti-rust ball bearings give you maximum smoothness and thrive ideally in saltwaters. Additionally, the reel has high line capacity and is compatible with braid. There is also a spare drag cam that allows you to use monofilament lines. On the other hand, the drag is super powerful and provides a wide range of drag adjustability for all your target species.
Key Features
- S compact body
- HAGANE gears and body
- Four available sizes
- Dual speed concept gears
- Spare Drag cam
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4. Okuma Makaira 2 Speed Offshore Lever Drag Trolling Reel
- Material : Aluminum, Stainless Steel
- Weight (g) : 1843
- Max Drag (kg) : 27.2 - 39
- Gear Ratio : 3.2:1, 1.3:1
- Ball bearings : 4+1
Okuma Makaira two-speed reel will give you the confidence to deal with the biggest offshore species. Its machine rigid construction features an aluminum frame, side plate and spool. A corrosion-resistant coating also helps ensure the reel’s durability, making it perfect for saltwater fishing. It also provides a smooth feel owing to the 5 ABEC-5 Precision Sapporo stainless steel ball bearings.
The two-speed gearing technology features two sets of stainless steel main and pinion gears. This way, you can use a high gear ratio or low gear ratio depending on your application. The drag system is powerful and super smooth; it is on the right side of the spool, and it uses a pull bar drag system that reduces pressure on the frame.
Key Features
- Machined aluminum frame with forged side plates
- 17-4 stainless steel gearing
- Material Aluminum
- Two-speed gearing system
- Ergonomic machined thumb rest on the rear crossbar
- Open top frame design
5. Avet EXW30/2 Lever Drag Conventional Reel
- Max Drag : 35 lb
- Weight (oz) : 49
- Gear Ratio : 2.0:1, 3.8:1
- Handle Material : Stainless Steel
Make your big game fishing more fun with this 2-speed conventional fishing reel. The USA-made big game reel features an aluminum material making it sturdy enough to withstand harsh conditions. Its beautiful finish is also anodized to ensure corrosion resistance maintaining your reel’s longevity.
The lever drag system is powerful and has adjustable pre-set and strike stop buttons for ease of use. The stainless steel gears are also durable, and they feature Avet’s user-friendly quick shift mechanism.
You are assured of superior stopping power due to the reliable Dual DISCAvedrag dry carbon fibre drag. This powerful drag also offers maximum smoothness and reduces wear. For increased comfort, the handle is ergonomically made and long. There is also an alarm clicker that ensures maximum sensitivity.
Key Features
- Precision machined marine grade aluminum and stainless steel components
- Anodized for corrosion resistance
- Topless Frame
- Lever drag system with adjustable pre-set and strike stop button.
- Dual DISCAve drag carbon fibre drags
- Alarm clicker
- T-Bar knob
- Retrieve Right-hand
What makes a Good Two Speed Reel?
Gear Ratio
The best part of using two-speed reels is the two gear ratios. When choosing your reel, you need to be extra careful about the gear ratios. Usually, high gear ratios are for high-speed retrieves, while low gear ratios are perfect for low speed retrieves. Make sure your two gear ratios match up the retrieval speed of your targeted species.
Material
The different materials you will encounter in two-speed reels are graphite, aluminum and stainless steel. Although every angler has their preferences, getting the best material will ensure the strength and durability of the reel. To start with, Graphite is strong and offers a light feel, so; you will not feel the weight. Aluminum and stainless steel materials are sturdy and strong and can bear the impact of large species but they are prone to corrosion. Therefore, you need to ensure the reels also have a coating that helps reduce corrosion, especially when dealing with saltwater applications.
Comfort
When you get a two-speed reel, there is a high chance that you are targeting the large species. Comfort is vital when dealing with these species; otherwise, you will be exhausted at the end of the day. A handle made ergonomically and has a good grip will be the perfect companion to ensure your comfort. Always check the handle’s design and size before getting your two-speed reel.
Price
Price is a crucial determinant when purchasing different products. When it comes to two-speed reels, you might have a hard time finding lowly priced reels since most are high-end reels. However, with a bit of patience and research, you will find quality and affordable reels.
Drag
Every fishing reel requires a smooth and powerful drag to ensure the angler’s success. Two-speed reels are no exception; in fact, they need to have the most powerful drag since most anglers use them for big game fish. Whether you choose carbon, dura drag, or any other drag system, make sure it is powerful enough for the different fish species.
How do you Use a 2 Speed Reel
Two-Speed reels work just like cars. When climbing a steep hill you will drop the gear and when accelerating the speed in a less demanding place you choose a higher gear.
With two-speed reels you change the gear by pressing the button. When casting with your bait most anglers will use a high gear ratio to present the bait fast and after hooking the fish, you simply press the button and set the lower gear ratio. This way you will have torque to engage the fish and retrieve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Two-speed Reel worth it?
One speed reels will also get the job done, and sometimes anglers wonder whether two-speed reels are worth it. Well, two-speed reels are completely worth it, especially for saltwater anglers eyeing the largest species. Two-speed reels offer more torque when dealing with bigger species. With them, you can deal with different species and easily change the gear ratio depending on your application.
Why do you need Two-speed Reels?
Most anglers wonder why you need a two-speed reel while you can perfectly use the one-speed reel. Two-speed reels are essential for every serious angler. Sometimes, you might miss a catch because of the speed of your reel. Since two-speed reels come with two speeds, you will experience more accuracy and greater torque. Additionally, they will let you experience using different lures.
Final Verdict
Two-speed reels, although not very common, come in handy when dealing with different species. Although they date back to the 1930s, most anglers had not heard of them until the last decade. They are the best reels when you are eyeing the biggest catch since you can use the high gear ratio to deliver lures at a high pace, while the low gear ratio helps put on more power when the fish gets hooked.
