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You are here: Home / Fishing Reels / 8 Best Tuna Fishing Reels 2022 [Reel for Tuna Fishing]
reel for tuna fishing

8 Best Tuna Fishing Reels 2022 [Reel for Tuna Fishing]

Filed Under: Fishing Reels By //  by Royce Jeremiah Leave a Comment

Tuna. Though tuna fishes are captured through many commercial ways and in a very huge amount, there are individuals who also find pleasure in catching tuna fish through fishing rods by themselves.

And where personal tuna fishing is considered, the value a good fishing reel knows no bound. Tuna is so tasty that it can brighten up your day after a handful of fishing.

The strength of the whole fishing rod depends mostly on how the reel is made. So, for fishing tuna fish specifically, you need a good reel. And this article is all about the best tuna fishing reels for you!

So, in the following discussion about some of the best reels for tuna fishing, hopefully, you will get your hand on the finest one.

Contents

  • 1 The Best Tuna Fishing Reels Reviews & Comparision
    • 1.1 #1. Penn Squall LevelWind – Best Reel for Tuna Fishing
      • 1.1.1 Pros
      • 1.1.2 Cons
      • 1.1.3 Deep Insight
    • 1.2 #2. Okuma Cold Water – Tuna Fishing Reel
      • 1.2.1 Pros
      • 1.2.2 Cons
  • 2 Deep Insight
    • 2.1 #3. The PENN Battle II – Best Spinning Reel for Tuna
      • 2.1.1 Pros
      • 2.1.2 Cons
    • 2.2 #4. Daiwa BG Spinning – Reel for Tuna Fishing
      • 2.2.1 Pros
      • 2.2.2 Cons
    • 2.3 #5. Shimano Talica II Reels – Best Fishing Reel for Tuna
      • 2.3.1 Pros
      • 2.3.2 Cons
    • 2.4 #6. Okuma Makaira –  Best Reel for Tuna
      • 2.4.1 Pros
      • 2.4.2 Cons
    • 2.5 #7. AVET SX5.3 Lever Drag Conventional Reel
      • 2.5.1 Pros
      • 2.5.2 Cons
    • 2.6 #8. Penn Fierce II  – Tuna Fishing Reel
      • 2.6.1 Pros
      • 2.6.2 Cons
  • 3 Buying Guide: Consider to Buy a Reel for Tuna Fishing
      • 3.0.1 Budget
      • 3.0.2 Design
      • 3.0.3 Weight
      • 3.0.4 Material
      • 3.0.5 Frame
      • 3.0.6 Gears
      • 3.0.7 Handle
      • 3.0.8 Spool
      • 3.0.9 Bearing
        • 3.0.9.1 Frequently Asked Questions
  • 4 Verdict

The Best Tuna Fishing Reels Reviews & Comparision

Comparison, Prose, and cons, and also Recommendation for the best fishing reel for tuna. Keep Reading and pick with your best match Reel.

#1. Penn Squall LevelWind – Best Reel for Tuna Fishing

The first one on our top list is one from the brand Penn Squall. It is a famous brand for fishing equipment. All the fishermen are familiar with this one. All the fishermen are familiar with this one.

But the one we are talking about today is The PennSquallLevelWind. It’s tough and durable yet lightweight graphite frame makes it significant from others. As it is lightweight, it can help you to fish with the utmost comfort.

Its main gear is made of bronze and pinion gears are of stainless steel material. Both the materials are well known for their durability. So, for extended usage, undoubtedly, it will serve you.

All of this is wrapped in a stainless steel bearing system. It also consists of an instant anti-reverse bearing. The anti-reverse bearing is very helpful in seawater fishing. It never fails to catch a target because of this system.

Also, the ratchet system does not make any significant noise. A feature that will definitely turn out helpful is its spool that has to mark of line capacity indication. Tuna can swim away if you get a reel, which makes noise. As this reel doesn’t make any noise, you can easily utilize your fishing.

This feature helps an angler to know the exact amount of line left in the spool for convenience.

Its drag system is capable enough to provide an even pressure on big fighting fishes making it one of the top reel that you can count on. The even pressure will make your tuna fishing way more successful.

Using high-quality material and precise production process, this fishing reel is one the best of its kind.

Not to forget the money you are paying for it will totally worth its value. So, even if you are looking for something budget-friendly, you can rely on this one.

In short, if you want a reel that is strong enough for heavy and fighting fishes, you can definitely give this one a try.

Tips: the anti-reverse gear will let you drag while catching the fish swiftly. As this system is included in this reel, you will get a lot more efficiency than usual with this.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Strong
  • Anti-reverse bearing
  • Line Capacity Indicator

Cons

  • Not preferable for saltwater fishes sometimes

Deep Insight

The most interesting facility that came on to us is the balanced pressure. This helps a lot over the water. Also, the strong outcome of this reel is important in tuna fishing.

You can handle it easily because of the lightweight. It is important in extended time fishing. Otherwise, you will get fatigue and pain. Also, it has a line capacity indicator, which is quite uncommon in the reels.

Check Price on Amazon

#2. Okuma Cold Water – Tuna Fishing Reel

Another decent quality fishing reel is the Okuma cold water fishing reel. After comparing all the specifications, you will notice how valuable it is.

This specific fishing reel is made out of high-quality material making it one of the best tuna fishing reels you can own. It has brass material gears that are cut through precise machinery, for durability and strength.

One of its great features is its dual anti-reverse system, which allows the angler to completely focus on the bait not worrying about the weight of the fish. The single anti-reverse system is already very popular in reels. But when this one serves with the dual anti-reverse bearing, it works very effectively and serves with extraordinary benefits.

Increased spool stabilization due to its mechanical stabilization system ensures permanence when fighting heavier fishes.

It has a drag system made out of carbonite material that shows its potential considering the fish’s weight issue. No matter what you catch, it will always balance the weight.

Another interesting feature about this reel is its mechanical line counter. This facility is impressively designed for tuna fishing especially.

This line counter is said to be anti-fogging for a clearer view. As a result, no matter what the weather is, you will never lose your visibility off the line.

Depending on the spool rotation it determined the exact amount of line left inside. This is a fishing reel that can be easily used by both right and left-handed anglers.

This fishing rod is made in such a way that makes it strong, durable and powerful during heavy fish fighting. All these features are really important for every fisher. Specifically, when you want to catch a special type of fish, it’s necessary.

It promises to be enough lightweight to ensure maximum anglers comfort. So, this one might also become your favorite considering fishing reels.

Tips: every fisher is fond of the weight balancing property of reels. This feature is quite new, but it works really well. You will be able to catch fishes of any weight with a single reel, isn’t it amazing? This reel will help you with this matter.

Pros

  • Quality Material
  • Brass Gears
  • Dual Anti-reverse system
  • mechanical line counter

Cons

  • The clicker makes sound, it’s not silent

Deep Insight

As stated before, we really liked the weight balancing property of this reel. On top of that, it has a dual anti-reverse system, which increases fishing effectiveness.

Specifically, if you want to catch tuna fish, it will help a lot. The line counter is made for a clearer view so you can always see what’s happening there. Overall, we really liked the strong and comforting performance of this reel.

Check Price on Amazon

#3. The PENN Battle II – Best Spinning Reel for Tuna

In our discussion about the best spinning reel for tuna, the next choice is The PENN Battle II. This is another incredible choice that every fisher likes.

A fishing reel consists of the features which help the angler in catching heavier fish.

Considering the look of it, it might be one of the good looking pieces of fishing reel you can earn. Also, the high range of fishing feedback will serve you over the water. You will get the most feedback out of it.

It has a body and rotor is made fully out of quality metal that makes the gear placements on point. Mechanical gear placement makes it very accurate and thus, the angler can experience smooth drag and helps with heavier pulls.

It has a rubber gasket included in the spool, this restrains the lines from moving and slipping away. You won’t have to do any self backing off the spool.

Its washers are made of H-100 carbon fiber material that provides a smooth fishing experience. The experience of catching tuna fishes will be enjoyable using this reel.

Its handles comprise of soft touch knobs are very comfortable to use, yet is very much durable for different fishing experiences. So you are getting both comfort and effectiveness in one place!

It is a versatile fishing rod that can be used to catch both bigger and smaller fish. If your priority fish is tuna, you will get the utmost service in catching that.

Its versatility spreads in saltwater as well as fresh water too. As it is rust resistant so there is a lesser fret for it being rusted and losing its durability and strength.

So you can make it your choice as your fishing reel to catch tuna.

Tips: saltwater requires an effective fishing reel which won’t let you slip off anything. As tuna is mostly found in saltwater, this reel is efficient to serve you in tuna fishing.


Pros

  • Anti-Rust feature
  • Spool consisting of rubber gasket
  • Durable
  • Versatile
  • Metal Body

Cons

  • The instructions on the packaging are not enough informative.

Deep Insight

The anti-rust feature caught our attention. As you are going to use the reel over water all the time, this feature is very necessary for extended durability.

Besides, it is very versatile and the spool has a rubber gasket. The spool doesn’t let your reel fall from your hands and also doesn’t let it slip off.

Check Price on Amazon

#4. Daiwa BG Spinning – Reel for Tuna Fishing

The next reel on our list is the Daiwa BG Spinning Reel.

Considered to be one of the most smoothly working reels available on the market, this spinning reel has the durability and specifications that makes it versatile for both saltwater and freshwater.

Like, it is equipped with a larger gear than other ones that make perfect connections within the gears. Smoother yet strong drag helps to fish big fighting fishes.

It has a waterproof ATD drag which is comfortable in hands providing a silky smooth dragging experience. Many of you may think that it is not that necessary, but you will understand when the water will make the reel’s handle slippery and you will miss your target.

It is also durable as it is water sealed. Considering the look of it, it might be one of the most lucrative fishing reels that you can buy with this amount of money.

Its air rotors provide a more balanced experience for the angler as this design helps to distribute the whole weight across the whole reel.

Consisting of the aluminum spool eliminates wind knots etc for smoother drag.

The ball bearing of this reel with seven stainless steel balls is made rust proof for better durability.

It has a screw in handle feature that minimizes or should we say almost eradicates the movement between the main gear and the main handle arm.

The infinite anti-reverse system is present in this reel which can serve your dragging. This the angler has much more confidence when rotating the handle, making it one of the best fishing reel for tuna.

Tips: the smooth functionality is required for a great experience in your fishing. This reel will serve you with that. Once you use it, you will know the difference.

Pros

  • Smooth Functioning
  • Infinite anti-reverse system
  • Durable
  • Attractive looks
  • Bigger Gear

Cons

  • A bit heavier than others but some find the weight non-significant.

Deep Insight

The infinite anti-reverse system caught most of our attention. It increases the possibility of successful fishing multiple times. The anti-reverse system makes dragging easier.

Moreover, the built is handles incredibly to reduce the movement in between the main gear and handle. Sometimes, if it’s not maintained properly, it can be a matter of annoyance for the fishers.

#5. Shimano Talica II Reels – Best Fishing Reel for Tuna

The next one on our list of the awesome fishing reel for tuna fishing is the Shimano Talica II Reels.

This lightweight yet powerful makes sure that the angler has a comfortable experience while dealing with heavy drugs.

It has an aluminum frame made out of automated machines and the surface of the drag is E.I treated, this helps to avoid the damage because of frictions.

That makes the reel long lasting.  This is a versatile fishing reel that provides two different speed option for angler’s convenience, as the angler can aim for both long distanced casts and also easier castings.

The versatility provides the angler with the ability to have both smaller and larger baits using the same specific reel. It reduces efforts and increases effectiveness.

The reel consists of six balls bearing that is non-greased. It also has an anti-reverse feature. As you already know how exceptionally the anti-reverse system can serve you, you the importance.

Larger washers embedded with the drag helps in its durability and strength, even during high tides. So even in rough sea and weather, you will never miss your target.

Despite its lighter weight, the reel does not compromise with the quality. Its S-compact body is meant to give the highest compatibility and quality both at a time.

The weight issue did not make any of its parts to perform less than any other heavier fishing reels.

It does not give any occurrence to the angler considering the bend or flex issue. This helps in tackling heavy fighting fishes.

Tips: compatibility in higher tides is needed from a strong reel. But most of the reels lack good quality. In that case for good quality, you can rely on this one.

Pros

  • Two different speed option
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Easy maintenance.

Cons

  • The dual speed future might be new to understand for inexperienced anglers.

Deep Insight

If you are a beginner fisherman, dragging and maintaining the reel may be hard for you. Considering that problem, this reel is created beginner-friendly.

Moreover, it serves amazing durability at the most reasonable price; which is rare. In addition, the lightweight body is easy to handle for everyone.

Check Price on Amazon

#6. Okuma Makaira –  Best Reel for Tuna

The Okuma Makaira is another one from our list of tuna fishing reels.

Consisting of some unique and essential features that make it one of the great reel.

Choosing its features, it has been constructed with different aspects for highest user comfort.

It consists of a full metal one framed body frame that increases its durability by minimizing the chances of breakage.

Aluminum is the material that is chosen to make its pars as this metal is said to be more durable than other ones as it can stand more pressure and go through heavier weights.

The parts are fitted in a precise manner that makes smoother drags also ensured durability. The handle is said to be their unique patented T-Bar handle.

This unique design allows the angler to experience the highest amount of comfort during pulls also, lessening the amount of hand or forearm tiredness.

It also has the dual speed feature in its gears making it easier for the angler to use one single reel for both uses. If you compare with other reels, you will notice that this specification is not common among others.

Its main and pinion gears are helical cut, which ensures smooth and silent gear movement.

Like other brands discussed previously, it also has the anti-reverse feature to provide maximum strength to the anglers, but in this reel this mechanism is silent.

Keeping in mind all of the features above this reel can definitely be your choice for your fishing reel for tuna.

Tips: the dual speed feature of the fishing reel is a unique specification to mention. This reel can help you with this feature. As a result, if you are an angler, it will be greatly beneficial in the fishing accuracy.

Pros

  • Light weight
  • Durable
  • One framed aluminum body
  • Silent anti-reverse mechanism.
  • T-Bar Handle

Cons

  • A bit expensive than others

Deep Insight

The dual-speed feature of this reel and the silent movement has made this reel awesome to use. Also, it is very light in weight so you won’t face any problem using it for a long time.

The T-bar handle is another unique specification of this ree. To conclude, this reel is filled with various unique features that are inevitable.

Check Price on Amazon

#7. AVET SX5.3 Lever Drag Conventional Reel

Combining power and precision, the AVET SX5.3 is one of the good tuna fishing reels in this specific series of fishing reels from AVET.

It has a one-piece metal frame that enhances its durability with elegant looks.

Its parts are made out of material like aluminum and stainless steel. Both the material is said to be strong enough to provide industry level strength to the reel.

Emphasizing on its smoothness, the parts of its gears are cut with precise measurement also mechanical precision alignment ensures the perfect mesh between gears for smoother control.

Drags made out of Avedrag dry carbon fiber provides a smooth feel for the anglers during fishing. Also, its smoothness is said to remain the same even after continuous uses for many years.

It is a small profile reel yet can show performance better than any other reels of its kind. If you compare the similar reels, you will easily understand the differences.

It is very smooth to handle as there are six ball bearing mechanism placed upon it.

This feature also helps it to be a more silent reel them others.

Talking about its handle it is made in an ergonomic design which is made keeping in mind the shape of a human hand.

This is why it delivers maximum comfort to the angler’s grip even during a long period of fishing time.

Tips: if you don’t get the top-most comfort from the reel, you can’t perform better over the water. Both the reel and gears should perform well to achieve the most success in tuna fishing. This reel can supposedly serve you all the comforts and necessary features.

Pros

  • the metal frame
  • Ergonomic design
  • Smooth in use
  • Durable
  • Ergonomic handle design

Cons

  • No protection against saltwater.

Deep Insight

The main reason is the extraordinary and unique features that this reel serves to the users. All the features are unique, that even a beginner fisherman will be very benefitted.

Also, the smooth dragging helps the fishers to catch every target. The handle is another thing to consider this reel as one of the best. It provides well grip, which induces efficiency.

Check Price on Amazon

#8. Penn Fierce II  – Tuna Fishing Reel

The last one on our list is another from the same brand Penn; it is the Penn Fierce II Spinning Fishing Reel. Apart from other ones this reel has some new and improved features for the anglers to experience.

First of all, unlike others, it has a full body made out of metal.

This way it is more durable in terms of as the gear alignment is more precise this way thus making it enough capable to handle tough fishes. By the look of it, it is by far one of the best looking reels that Penn has to offer.

Because of its improved paint quality, it not only does look good but also the improved quality resists salt water damages.

With its trademarked techno-balanced rotor, the angler will experience a smooth feel considering the reel.

The bearing consists of five balls made out of stainless steel.

This provides good coordination between the reel and the bearing resulting in an effortless drag for the angler.

For smooth drag, it has the oiled felt drag system.

It consists of an instant anti-reverse system that is bearing system that is one way without any kind of stiffness on the handle.

This is also a very good quality reel that you can choose for yourself.

Tips: saltwater tends to make the components of reels very worse.  That’s why a strong and durable reel will help you top fight over the sea.

Pros

  • Attractive looks
  • Full metal body
  • Smooth in use
  • Durable bearing
  • Stainless steel bearing.

Cons

  • Can be a bit on the heavier side.

Deep Insight

Specifically, the strength and capability of outcome that this reel has are impressive. Also, it serves good coordination which is needed while fishing for a specific type of fish.

Furthermore, the durability that the components give is awesome. The main reason behind its durable feedback is the quality of materials. Overall, it will be a good purchase for all.

Check Price on Amazon

Buying Guide: Consider to Buy a Reel for Tuna Fishing

To find one of the best tuna fishing reels for yourself you got to look up for some aspects that you need to focus on.

There are some of these essential points taken on account for you to find the best fishing reel.

Hopefully, they will turn out helpful for you.

Budget

The first thing you need to determine before buying a fishing reel is what amount of money you are willing to spend for it.

If you want a better-quality reel with lots of features you can not expect to get that at a low price.

Yet, there are many decent good quality rods in a very affordable range and also not all heavy-duty reels are of quality that you are looking for.

Still, that depends on your budget. So make up your mind for that first.

Design

There are different reels offering different designs for anglers’ convenience.

The design of a reel sometimes might determine how well it works.

The features included in a fishing reel determines the look of the reel.

The material even the paint coating sometimes varies to provide certain features to the angler. So, it’s important to observe the design of the reels properly.

Weight

To include all the elements needed to make one of the perfect tuna fishing reels, it is necessary for the reel to hold a certain amount of weight.

But A reel that is too heavy will affect your fishing tactics.

You need to find a reel that is not heavy yet has the features you need.

That is, you have to maintain a balance between the weight and the essential features when choosing the best reel.

Material

Most of the fishing reels are made of materials like aluminum or stainless steel.

Keeping in mind that the reel is supposed to be in contact with water most of the times.

So, the material is a very crucial element to focus on. You can go with the reels made out of aluminum or stainless steel or the combination of both.

But make sure that the metals are high in quality.

Frame

The frame or the body is the part that holds all the mechanisms of the reel in place.

So, you need to carefully look up for what material the body frame is made of.

If the body frame is not durable enough the whole reel will end up working poorly.

So, you can say that the whole durability or workability of a reel depends somewhat upon its frame.

Gears

Another most important element in the mechanism of the reel is its gear.

A smooth gear ensures better performance of the reel. You have to make sure that the gears of the reel are made of good quality material also is precisely aligned together.

A poorly assembled gear will eventually result in a poor quality reel.

Handle

To maintain a good grip on your reel you have to determine a good quality handle.

Fishing reels today offer a different variety of handles for the maximum level of comfort.

A low-quality handle can result in anglers’ fatigue. Or ever difficulty in wrist hang movement.

So, keep this in mind when buying a reel for yourself.

Spool

The spool is also an essential part as it holds the fishing line which is also an integral part of the fishing reel.

There are a variety of choices in feels with a different type of spools to choose from.

Choose the one you find more useful and proper for your use. Make sure to observe the spool well before buying as the quality and withdrawal of the line depends mostly on it.

Bearing

Choose the correct reel for yourself by focusing on the bearing of the reel.

This part of the reel cannot be ignored. Make sure that the bearing is proportioned with quality and integrity. An anti-reverse bearing can be very useful nowadays.

Many reels today have to offer this feature. But different brands have a different way of improvising. Some of the reels contain infinite anti-reverse bearing which is known to be the most useful.

Go for a silent anti-reverse bearing if possible. And also, don’t forget to check the smoothness of the bearing before buying yourself one.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the function of anti-reverse bearing?
Answer: An anti-reverse bearing helps to restrain the reel from spinning backward while engaging in the pull of fishes. This feature helps the angler to have a perfect hold on his/her bait.
What extra efforts does it need to maintain reels effectiveness?
Answer: Clean your reel regularly with fresh water, to minimize the risk of saltwater damage. Dry up the reel then store it. Regularly oil your reel with good quality reel grease or oil. There are a lot of choices, you can choose anyone according to your preference.
Which oil is preferable?
Answer: Mainly the synthetic oils are more capable of good lubrication.Good lubrication should be your first preference while choosing the oil.

What is the ideal material for fishing reels?
Answer: Aluminum and stainless steel is the most preferable material in terms of the strength of the reel. Also, these materials are durable as well.
Is necessary to consider which rod I am using with a specific reel?
Answer: Yes, the reel and rod coordination are very important as both reels and rods performance depends on it. If the correct rod is not used with the right it might lower both of their performance.
Why drag pressure lowers from time to time?
Answer: Drag pressure can get low from to time because of constant usage. You need to tighten the drag up to the maximum setting.

Verdict

All the fishing reels mentioned and discussed above are of very good quality and surely can make a very good choice as the best tuna fishing reel for the angler.

These eight reels have the most unique and essential feature and have the capability needed to be one of the best tuna fishing reels.

But our pick will be the PENN Battle II.

Its anti-rust feature also the added rubber gasket in the spool all these features make it different from others.

It has the durability and lightweight needed to be the best fishing reel. Its strength makes sure the angler does not face any complication during pulls.

All of the reels above have the capability that the best spinning reel for tuna needs. But if you have to choose one, you can definitely choose this one.

About Royce Jeremiah

Loving the fishing since my childhood and being passionate about it since then. The main purpose of creating this site is letting you know about the right tools and gears for fishing with the best of the quality not only along with its best features but also their drawbacks.

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