The basic definition of bottom fishing makes it look straightforward. But, any angler who has tried bottom fishing will tell you it’s not a piece of cake. Without the right equipment, it will take a miracle to catch a fish. However, with the right equipment and lessons, you will become a pro within no time.
A reel is one piece of equipment that ensures your success while bottom fishing. Most anglers recommend the use of conventional reels owing to their construction and strength. However, you can use spinning reel also. You need pick the right with this regards. In this article, we have picked the most popular spinning, conventional reels for your bottom fishing journey.
Here are the the comparison table of top bottom fishing reels in the market. We have carefully picked the products taking a lot of things in consideration including, quality, built material, durability, pricing, application, company value etc. You can choose your desired gear from the table without spending much time.
| Image | Product | Features | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
Best All-Around Reel  |
| 9.9 | Check On Amazon |
Editor Choice  |
| 9.9 | Check On Amazon |
Best High-End Reel  |
| 9.9 | Check On Amazon |
Best Conventional Reel  |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best Star Darg Reel  |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
1. Daiwa Bg Spinning Reel
Best Spinning Reel for Bottom Fishing
- Gear Ratio : 5.6:1
- Ball Bearings : 6+1
- Max Drag (LB) : 15.4
- Fishing Line Type : Braided
- Drag System : Waterproof
Daiwa is one brand that looks to improve the fishing standards of anglers. This new generation spinning reel offers superior performance. The series of the Daiwa Bg reels range from ultralight freshwater actin to heavy big game saltwater models.
The reel has a Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing over-sized Digidear system that ensures superior performance. In addition, the reel has a solid screw-in handle, air rotor, and Aluminum ABS spool that improves castability.
The line per handle turn is 37.5″ and has a powerful drag system. The spinning reel has a gear ratio of 5.6:1 with 6+1 ball bearings that ensure a smooth feel and superior performance.
Pros
- The reel has a powerful and smooth drag system
- The aluminum spool helps improve castability
- It gives you the confidence to fight heavier fish species.
Cons
- The reel is expensive, but its performance is impeccable.
2. PENN Slammer III Spinning Fishing Reels
Premium Bottom Fishing reel
- Gear Ratio : 6.2:1, 5.6:1, 4.7:1, 4.2:1, 4.8:1, 4.3:1
- Ball Bearings : 5+1
- Maximum Drag(Lbs) : 15 - 50
- Model Options : 9
- Weight : 1 Pounds
Pros
- This reel features 6+1 ball bearings that ensure a smooth feel
- The reel full metal body ensures the durability of this reel
- The reel has an IP67 sealed system that keeps water out of the gear system and drag system.
- The reel also offers smooth action.
Cons
- This spinning reel is a little bit pricy
- The reel offers minimum drag
3. Shimano Speedmaster 2 Speed Lever Drag Saltwater Fishing Reel
Best 2 Speed Reels for Bottom Fishing
- Gear Ratio - 5.7:1 / 3.1:1
- Max Drag: 40lbs |
- Weight: 25.7oz |
- Bearings: 4
- Fishing line Type : Monofilament
This reel has the qualities and incredible performance of Shimano reels. It has a gear ratio of 5.7:1/3.1:1, ensuring a smooth feel and easy castability even in bottom fishing. The line retrieves per crank is 42/23 inches, and the monoline capacity lbs/yds are 50/580, 25/280, 30/230. The four stainless steel bearings enhance the strength and castability of the reel. The reel has a maximum drag of 40lbs.
These features ensure high performance while bottom fishing. Additionally, the high fish fighting machine ensures a wide range of ultra of drag adjustability. The reel is housed in a rigid Hagane body that prevents misalignment of moving parts under heavy loads. There is also a spare drag cam included for use with monofilaments.
Pros
- This reel has a spare drag cam for use with monofilament lines
- Its Hagane body prevents misalignment of moving parts.
- The reel is extremely durable and offers supreme performance
Cons
- The reel is right-hand retrieve and may be difficult for left-handed users.
4. Penn Squall II Level Wind
-Best Offshore Reel for Bottom Fishing
- Material : Aluminum
- Ball Bearing : 3+1
- Weight : 476 Grams
- Hand Orientation : Ambidextrous
- Available size : 4
The Penn Squall Level Wind reel is perfect for bottom fishing. In addition, it is excellent for big game fish in a variety of saltwater conditions. This reel is perfect for hobbyists, beginners, and experienced anglers. It has a forged and machined aluminum spool that allows you to fish all day, concentrating on the fish fighting power.
Its graphite frame and side plates enhance its lightweight and superior performance. The bronze main gear and stainless steel pinion gear provide exceptional strength and precision, ensuring exceptional strength to ensure a smooth and comfortable cranking. In addition, the HT-100 Versa Drag system allows for multiple drag settings to remain cool in the heat of battle, so you can retrieve powerful and fighting fish.
The two ball bearings and an anti-reverse ball bearing eliminate back play, ensuring instant hook-sets. The handle is adjustable, and it allows you to choose how long your handle will be. Due to the line capacity rings, the spool displays how much line is remaining.
Pros
- This reel is made of a graphite frame and side plates that ensure superior performance.
- The HT-100 versa drag system allows for multiple drag settings
- The ball bearings and anti-reverse ball bearing el9minates back play.
- The reels are lightweight and look great
Cons
- The reel is not as durable as other Penn spinning reels
5. Shimano Torium SW Saltwater Stardrag Multiplier Reel
- Weight (oz) : 33.2
- Max Drag (lb) : 17 - 36
- Gear Ratio : 3.9:1 - 6.3:1
- Ball Bearings : 3+1
This left and right-handed reel offer excellent performance in saltwater. It is perfect for live bait ad bottom-fishing applications. The reel features a high-efficiency gearing system that delivers exceptional strength and rigidity. The gearing system also increases leverage and power.
The reel also features treated anti-rust bearings that are ten times more resistant than the standard stainless steel bearings. These bearings help maintain smooth and even line flow. There is also a cross carbon drag that ensures long-lasting smoothness, and it can withstand fast, powerful runs from pelagic and large inshore species.
Pros
- This reel is comfortable and palpable.
- The one-piece frame construction gives you support when reeling large fish.
- The anti-rust bearings are ten times more corrosion resistant than standard stainless steel reels.
Cons
- The reel is a little bit expensive
- The drag is not engaging
What Should I Look for in a Bottom Fishing Reel
When shopping for a reel, you might have a challenging time choosing and picking the right reel. In addition, reels from different manufacturers will appear similar. So, if you are not aware of choosing a bottom fishing reel, you might end up with a low-quality misfunctioning reel.
a. Spool Size
Choosing a spool size might be difficult since manufacturers list the spools differently. When choosing a spool size, you need to identify the type of fish you want to catch. Small spool size is ideal for light fishing in rivers, lakes, and bays. On the other hand, large spool sizes work better with large fish like salmon, grouper, and snappers.
b .Your type of fishing will also determine Weight
The best weight of a reel. Lighter reels can hold lighter fish and vise versa. However, you also need to pick a reel you will feel comfortable with when it comes to weight.
c. Materials and Design
Bottom fishing reels are mostly rugged. They are built this way to withstand the harsh conditions of bottom waters. Additionally, their materials should be heavy-duty to withstand the topography of bottom waters.
d. Gear Ratio
When bottom fishing, a low gear ratio is recommended. A low gear ratio gives you more power that is essential in bottom fishing. In addition, a lower gear ratio gives you more power since the spool rotates less.
e. Price
Price is an important consideration when making any purchase. When buying a reel, ensure you go for what you can afford. Get reels from well-known brands, so you are also assured of their quality.
Why is a Conventional reel great for Bottom Fishing?
Bottom fishing is a fishing technique where you catch fish that live on the floor of the sea. Convectional reels are mostly designed for bottom fishing. This is because of their rugged nature so that they can withstand the tough conditions at the bottom. The topography of bottom waters requires heavy sinkers, a long line, more torque, and more cranking power. Additionally, the heavy-duty materials used to manufacture these reels give them the strength to withstand the large fighting fish.
What are the Recommended rods for bottom Fishing
The perfect rod for bottom fishing is determined by your fishing spot and what you want to catch. When bottom fishing close to the shoreline, a light, and shorter rod is preferred. Most anglers prefer a 6-7′ rod when near the shoreline. However, as you get further from the shoreline, longer rods will work better, especially when bottom fishing since you will cast far.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Reel can I use for Bottom Fishing?
When bottom fishing, you need reels made of heavy-duty materials and those that can withstand harsh conditions underwater. Convectional reels are recommended for bottom fishing due to their make and design. They are usually rugged by nature and are built to withstand harsh conditions. However, you can also find many spinning reels now a days to serve your purpose perfectly.
2. Can you Use a Spinning Reel for Bottom Fishing?
Bottom fishing with a spinning reel is possible. Although most professional anglers do not advise, do not reschedule your fishing day simply because you do not have a conventional reel. You will, however, feel the tension brake slowing down the speed. Ensure that the spinning reel you use has an instant anti-reverse bearing and is a superior performing reel.
3. Can you use a Baitcaster for Bottom Fishing?
A baitcaster works perfectly for bottom fishing. When bottom fishing, you must make longer casts, which is where the baitcaster will be a great aid. Put on the weight you plan to use and adjust the tension, so the line falls to the ground when you take the thumb off the spool. However, using a baitcaster requires that you have a bit of experience.
Final Verdict
Bottom fishing becomes very addictive since you get to try out different techniques. Flexible anglers will enjoy bottom fishing. Additionally, you get to explore the waters in your boat. However, picking the right fishing gear can be challenging. Identifying a reel especially can be very challenging due to the different reels and manufacturers available in the market. The above guide will help you pick a perfect reels for bottom fishing. Whether you are a beginner or pro, you can choose a reel that works great and does not overstretch your pocket.
Related Resources :
- What is Best Rod for Bottom Fishing
- What is the best rig for bottom fishing?
- Best Rod and Reel for Bottom Fishing
- Best Saltwater Conventional Reels
