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Best Conventional Reel For Casting (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a conventional reel for casting, there are several factors you should consider before making a purchase. A conventional reel may be a great choice if you're looking for a powerful option for catching larger fish. However, there are a number of different styles available, and it's important to look at features like size, materials, and drag settings to ensure you're getting a reel that's right for your needs.

One important factor to consider when shopping for a conventional reel for casting is the size of the reel. Choosing a reel that's too big or too small can have a significant impact on your ability to cast and retrieve your line effectively. Additionally, you'll want to look for reels that are made with durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum to ensure they can handle the wear and tear of regular use.

To further help you in your search, ask yourself some key questions like: What types of fish am I targeting? How experienced am I with fishing? Do I prefer a specific brand or price range? Answering these questions can help you better understand your specific needs and preferences when it comes to choosing a conventional reel for casting.

At the end of the day, finding the right conventional reel for your needs can be a bit overwhelming. But by taking the time to consider important factors like size, materials, and drag settings, you can make an informed decision that will help you land the big catches with ease.

10 Best Conventional Reel For Casting

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional baitcasting reels for trolling and jigging in freshwater or saltwater.
2
The product is ideal for fishing applications where a strong and reliable star drag reel is needed.
3
The product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional reels with a star drag system.
4
The product is ideal for fishing in open waters with a level wind reel and strong casting rod.
5
Ideal for casting and retrieving saltwater fish with a high gear ratio, max drag capacity, and level wind feature.
6
The product is ideal for fishing in saltwater, especially for catching catfish.
7
The fishing reel is ideal for right-handed anglers with a large handle, adjustable cast control, and a high gear ratio.
8
This product is ideal for fishing coastal waters with heavy tackle and large game fish.
9
This product is ideal for saltwater fishing with its high gear ratio, multiple bearings, and efficient retrieve rate.
10
The product is ideal for saltwater fishing with a high gear ratio, fast retrieve rate and multiple bearings.
This product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional baitcasting reels for trolling and jigging in freshwater or saltwater.
The product is ideal for fishing applications where a strong and reliable star drag reel is needed.
The product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional reels with a star drag system.
The product is ideal for fishing in open waters with a level wind reel and strong casting rod.
Ideal for casting and retrieving saltwater fish with a high gear ratio, max drag capacity, and level wind feature.
The product is ideal for fishing in saltwater, especially for catching catfish.
The fishing reel is ideal for right-handed anglers with a large handle, adjustable cast control, and a high gear ratio.
This product is ideal for fishing coastal waters with heavy tackle and large game fish.
This product is ideal for saltwater fishing with its high gear ratio, multiple bearings, and efficient retrieve rate.
The product is ideal for saltwater fishing with a high gear ratio, fast retrieve rate and multiple bearings.

1. Kastking Rekon Level Wind Trolling Reel

Introducing the ReKon Level Wind Trolling & Jigging Reel from KastKing, now available in size 20. This conventional reel is perfect for catching larger saltwater species such as Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Walleye, Lake Trout, Catfish, Striped Bass, Redfish and more. With its tough components, you can count on a smooth and trouble-free saltwater fishing experience. The reel features 3 double shielded, stainless-steel ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing, ensuring durability and reliability. Its Japanese precision machined brass main gear, stainless-steel pinion gear, machined brass worm shafts, and stainless-steel guide shaft make it powerful and long-lasting.

The ReKon level wind round casting reel also boasts a triple carbon disc drag system that delivers an impressive 30 lbs of fish stopping power, making it the ideal trolling fishing reel. Additionally, it has a line clicker function that serves as a strike detection system while trolling. Its gear ratio of 5.3:1 on the size 20 is perfect for trolling.

Despite its high line capacity, the ReKon is compact and easy to handle. It can hold up to 330 yds of 25 lb monofilament line on the size 20. The reel handle is designed to be comfortable, with an aluminum power handle and a large round EVA grip that increases cranking power and eliminates hand fatigue. The one-piece, glass fiber infused graphite frame makes this trolling reel solid, steady, and corrosion-free. Whether you're using it as a jigging reel, trolling reel, or bottom fishing reel for fishing saltwater or freshwater, the ReKon is sure to impress.

Pros

  • Tough components ensure durability and reliability
  • Triple carbon disc drag system delivers an impressive 30 lbs of fish stopping power
  • Compact design with high line capacity makes it easy to handle
  • Comfortable handle with an aluminum power handle and a large round EVA grip
  • One-piece, glass fiber infused graphite frame makes this trolling reel solid, steady, and corrosion-free

2. Penn Fathom Ii Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel

The Full Metal Body and Sideplates of this product provide durability and strength to the reel. The Fast Gear Access Sideplate allows for quick and easy access to the gears. The Machine-cut Marine Grade Bronze Main Gear with Hardened Stainless Steel Pinion ensures smooth operation and efficient power transfer. The Versa-Drag System with HT-100 Washers provides consistent and reliable drag performance. The Live Spindle with Free Floating Spool ensures smooth and efficient casting.

Pros

  • Full Metal Body and Sideplates provide durability and strength to the reel
  • Fast Gear Access Sideplate allows for quick and easy access to the gears
  • Machine-cut Marine Grade Bronze Main Gear with Hardened Stainless Steel Pinion ensures smooth operation and efficient power transfer
  • Versa-Drag System with HT-100 Washers provides consistent and reliable drag performance
  • Live Spindle with Free Floating Spool ensures smooth and efficient casting

3. Penn Fishing Squall Ii Star Drag Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, Sqlii15sd (Sqlii15sd)

The fishing reel features a durable and lightweight graphite frame and sideplates that make it easy to handle and maneuver while fishing. It is equipped with a high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear and a stainless steel pinion gear that ensures smooth and reliable operation. The reel also features a Live Spindle with free floating spool that provides excellent casting distance and accuracy. The Versa-Drag system with HT-100 washers ensures maximum drag pressure and is easy to adjust, allowing anglers to quickly and easily fine-tune their setup to match the conditions they are fishing in.

Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, this fishing reel is sure to impress. With its high-quality construction, versatile drag system, and smooth operation, it is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a great day on the water.

Pros

  • Durable and lightweight graphite frame and sideplates
  • High-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear
  • Stainless steel pinion gear ensures smooth and reliable operation
  • Live Spindle with free floating spool provides excellent casting distance and accuracy
  • Versa-Drag system with HT-100 washers ensures maximum drag pressure and is easy to adjust

4. Bigwater Combo: Ugly Stik & Penn Rival

The lightweight graphite frame and sideplates of this product make it easy to handle and maneuver. The machined brass main and pinion gear ensure smooth and efficient operation. With HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, this product can withstand heavy use and provide consistent drag pressure. It has 2 shielded stainless steel ball bearings that provide smooth and reliable performance.

This product is a great choice for anglers who want a lightweight and efficient fishing reel that can handle heavy use. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it a top choice for fishing enthusiasts. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide consistent drag pressure and can handle heavy fish with ease. The shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth operation, while the machined brass main and pinion gear provide efficient power transfer. With its lightweight, yet durable construction, this product is perfect for anglers who want a high-quality fishing reel that can withstand heavy use and provide reliable performance.

Built to last, this product features a lightweight graphite frame and sideplates, as well as a machined brass main and pinion gear. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide consistent drag pressure, while the 2 shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth operation. This product is a great choice for anglers who want a reliable and efficient fishing reel that can handle heavy use.

Pros

  • Lightweight graphite frame and sideplates
  • Machined brass main and pinion gear
  • HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers for consistent drag pressure
  • 2 shielded stainless steel ball bearings for smooth operation
  • Durable construction for heavy use

5. Fathom Ii Saltwater Reel: Smooth Casting Superiority

The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide a smooth and powerful drag system that can handle any fish in the water. The full-metal body and side plates ensure the durability and longevity of the reel, making it a reliable tool for every angler. The line capacity rings allow the user to keep track of the amount of line left on the spool, eliminating the guesswork during the fishing process. The fast gear access side plate feature enables quick and easy access to the gears, making maintenance and cleaning a breeze. The reel also boasts a 4+1 stainless steel bearing system that ensures a smooth and seamless operation every time.

The design of this reel is sleek and modern, with a black and gold color scheme that is sure to turn heads on the dock or the boat. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers are a standout feature, providing a drag system that is unrivaled in the market. The full-metal body and side plates add to the durability of the reel, ensuring that it can handle the toughest conditions and the biggest fish. The line capacity rings and fast gear access side plate features add convenience and ease to the fishing process, making this reel a must-have for every angler.

Pros

  • HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide a smooth and powerful drag system
  • Full-metal body and side plates ensure the durability and longevity of the reel
  • Line capacity rings allow the user to keep track of the amount of line left on the spool
  • Fast gear access side plate feature enables quick and easy access to the gears
  • 4+1 stainless steel bearing system ensures a smooth and seamless operation

6. Chaos Xs Catfish Reel: Smooth, Saltwater Power!

For the most professional-grade fishing experience, look no further than the Chaos XS round baitcasting reel. Featuring a CNC-caved, anti-line skip aluminum spool, spooling is made much easier. The reel's 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum frame reduces its weight by 10% without sacrificing its strength and durability, and the precision cut brass gears and stainless steel ball bearings ensure long-lasting performance.

The Chaos XS also boasts innovative cast technology, including a centrifugal brake that delivers superior casting performance. This technology ensures a smoother and longer casting distance while reducing the chance of backlash.

Designed to meet the demands of even the most hardcore angler, the Chaos XS features a recessed reel foot that keeps it low-profile on the rod, making it easy to palm and cast. The oversized nonslip rubber grips, clicker alarm, and easy access thumb-bar all contribute to an exceptional fishing experience.

With a premium carbon fiber drag system and Japanese Haimai-Cut brass main gear, the Chaos XS provides up to 22 pounds of stopping power to stop trophy fish in their tracks. And with Piscifun's premium 6+1 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings, this round baitcasting reel delivers super smooth operation.

Pros

  • CNC-caved, anti-line skip aluminum spool for easy spooling
  • 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum frame reduces weight by 10% without sacrificing strength and durability
  • Precision cut brass gears and stainless steel ball bearings ensure long-lasting performance
  • Innovative cast technology delivers superior casting performance and reduces backlash
  • Recessed reel foot and oversized nonslip rubber grips for easier handling
  • Premium carbon fiber drag system and Japanese Haimai-Cut brass main gear provide up to 22 pounds of stopping power
  • Premium 6+1 double shielded stainless steel ball bearings ensure super smooth operation

7. Nova 350 Conventional Fishing Reel

The Nova Conventional Reel is a high-quality fishing reel that is perfect for any angler. It features a strong aluminum frame that can withstand even the toughest fishing conditions. The reel also has an internally adjustable centrifugal cast control, which allows for precise casting every time. The large EVA foam handle knobs provide a comfortable grip, even during long fishing trips. The aluminum spool is designed to hold up to heavy species such as catfish, striper, salmon, and muskie.

This reel features 6 bearings (5 + Clutch) and an 18-inch retrieve rate, which makes for a smooth retrieval process. The right-hand retrieve is perfect for many fishing adventures to come. The continuous anti-reverse technology on this reel ensures that you can secure your next prized catch with ease, enhancing your fishing trip due to its smooth feel and reliability.

With a mono capacity of 200/20 and the ability to hold 480-yards of 30-pound braided line, this reel is perfect for heavy species. The versatile use of this reel makes it an excellent choice for any angler, whether they are a beginner or an experienced fisherman. Set a new gold standard for angling achievement with Nova!

Pros

  • Strong aluminum frame for tough fishing conditions
  • Internally adjustable centrifugal cast control for precise casting
  • Large EVA foam handle knobs for a comfortable grip
  • Continuous anti-reverse technology for smooth feel and reliability
  • Versatile use for heavy species
  • 6 bearings (5 + Clutch) and an 18-inch retrieve rate for smooth retrieval

8. Battalion Ii Surf Casting Rod.

The PENN 12’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Rod is a perfect combination of strength, performance, and dependability, designed to help you win the battle against saltwater fish. This rod features premium guides and reel seats, which supplement its lightweight and moderate fast rod action. With a line rating of 25-50lb, heavy power, and moderate-fast action, the Battalion II rod is strong yet flexible, allowing you to cast with precision and feel the fish biting on your line. It has a lure rating of 6-12 ounces, making it suitable for catching a wide range of saltwater fish.

The PENN 12’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Rod is built to withstand rough treatment in saltwater environments. It features PENN's durable Graphite Composite construction, which guarantees years of service. The rod has nine Fuji Alconite guides that keep lines strong under tension, even in harsh saltwater environments. The Fuji Graphite Reel Seat provides a lightweight and dependable anchor point for the reel. The Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt keeps you in control when battling your catch, making it easy for you to reel in your fish with ease.

Overall, the PENN 12’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Rod is a reliable and durable rod that is perfect for saltwater fishing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this rod will help you catch more fish and win the battle against the toughest saltwater species.

Pros

  • Premium guides and reel seats
  • Lightweight and moderate fast rod action
  • Suitable for a wide range of saltwater fish
  • Durable Graphite Composite construction
  • Nine Fuji Alconite guides
  • Fuji Graphite Reel Seat
  • Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt

9. Daiwa Saltist Star: High-Performance Saltwater Reel

The fishing enthusiasts can now enjoy an incredible fishing experience with this high-performance fishing reel that boasts a maximum drag pressure of 25-pounds, making it well-suited for braided lines. The reel is constructed from machined aluminum, which makes it highly durable and long-lasting. The anodized finish ensures greater corrosion resistance, making it perfect for use in saltwater environments. The reel features 4 CRBB ball bearings and a roller bearing, which ensure smooth and effortless casting. The 6.4:1 gear ratio ensures that the line retrieval is quick and efficient, making it easier to catch fish. With a line capacity of 14/270, 20/150 (MONO) and 30/330, 40/260 (J-BRAID), this reel is suitable for a wide range of fishing applications.

Whether you are a professional angler or an amateur, this fishing reel is a must-have for your fishing gear collection. With its exceptional build quality, advanced features, and impressive performance, it is sure to take your fishing game to the next level.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Maximum drag pressure of 25-pounds for braided lines
  • Anodized finish for greater corrosion resistance
  • Smooth and effortless casting
  • Quick and efficient line retrieval
  • Suitable for a wide range of fishing applications

10. Fathom Ii Saltwater Casting Reel, Ultimate Performance

The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers make this fishing reel an excellent choice for anglers who want a smooth and reliable drag system. The full-metal body and side plates provide durability and strength, ensuring that this reel can withstand the rigors of fishing in saltwater environments. The line capacity rings allow anglers to easily know how much line is left on the spool, so they can make informed decisions on when to reel in their catch. The fast gear access side plate makes it easy to switch out gears when needed, so anglers can quickly adapt to changing fishing conditions. And with a 4+1 stainless steel bearing system, this reel provides a smooth and consistent performance, allowing anglers to focus on landing their catch without worrying about the reel's performance.

If you're in the market for a reliable and durable fishing reel, the HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers, full-metal body and side plates, line capacity rings, fast gear access side plate, and 4+1 stainless steel bearing system make this reel an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Smooth and reliable drag system with HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers
  • Durable and strong full-metal body and side plates
  • Easy-to-read line capacity rings
  • Fast gear access side plate for quick gear changes
  • Smooth and consistent performance with 4+1 stainless steel bearing system

Best Conventional Reel For Casting FAQs

How do you cast a conventional reel for maximum distance and accuracy?

Casting a conventional reel for maximum distance and accuracy requires practice and technique. Here are a few tips to help you achieve better results:

1. Start by checking your reel's settings. Make sure it's set up with the appropriate line weight and drag to avoid backlash and ensure smooth casting.

2. Use your rod properly. Avoid gripping it tightly and focus on using your wrist and forearm to generate power and control.

3. Master the casting technique. To cast for distance, you'll need to use an overhand casting method, which involves swinging the rod back and forth before releasing the line.

4. Focus on your timing. Make sure to release the line at the right moment to achieve maximum distance and accuracy. Practice your timing by casting in an open area with no obstructions.

5. Finally, adjust your casting technique based on the wind and water conditions. Casting in windy conditions requires more power and control, while casting in calm waters requires a more gentle approach.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can improve your casting technique and achieve better results with your conventional reel.

How do you properly set the brakes on a conventional reel for casting?

Setting the brakes on a conventional reel for casting is an important step to ensure accuracy and avoid backlash. To properly set the brakes, start by adjusting the spool tension knob to the point where the lure slowly falls to the ground when the spool release button is pressed. Next, adjust the brakes to match the weight of the lure being used. This is typically done by adjusting the brake dial or lever, with more brakes needed for heavier lures. It is important to test the brakes by casting the lure a few times and adjusting as needed for optimum performance. Additionally, it is recommended to set the drag to around 25% of the line strength to prevent line breakage during a fight with a fish. Properly setting the brakes on a conventional reel takes practice and patience, but will ultimately lead to a more enjoyable and successful fishing experience.

What are the advantages of using a conventional reel for casting over a spinning reel?

There are several advantages to using a conventional reel for casting over a spinning reel. Firstly, conventional reels are generally built to handle heavier lines and lures, making them ideal for targeting larger fish species. This is because conventional reels have a greater line capacity and can generate more drag, which is necessary for reeling in strong fish.

Secondly, conventional reels provide greater accuracy and distance when casting. This is because they have a spool that rotates perpendicularly to the rod, allowing for more control over the direction and distance of the cast. Additionally, conventional reels have a lower profile, making them easier to handle and control when casting in windy conditions.

Lastly, conventional reels offer greater power and leverage when fighting fish. This is due to their design and the way the handle is positioned, which allows anglers to apply more pressure when reeling in fish. This makes them ideal for catching larger and stronger fish species, such as tuna or marlin.

In summary, the advantages of using a conventional reel for casting over a spinning reel include greater line capacity, accuracy and distance when casting, and increased power and leverage when fighting fish.

What is the best conventional reel for casting?

There are numerous conventional reels available in the market that are designed specifically for casting. However, the best conventional reel for casting depends on various factors such as the type of fishing, the size of the fish, and the type of line you will be using.

One of the popular conventional reels for casting is the Shimano Calcutta Conquest. It is highly durable, and its unique design provides excellent casting distance and accuracy. Another popular option is the Penn Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed. This reel is specifically designed for offshore fishing and boasts a powerful drag system that can handle large fish.

Another excellent conventional reel for casting is the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3. It features a six-pin centrifugal brake system that ensures excellent control and accuracy during casting. Additionally, it has a smooth and reliable drag system that can handle a variety of fishing situations.

In conclusion, the best conventional reel for casting depends on various factors, and it is essential to consider your fishing style and preferences before making a purchase.

What type of fishing line works best with a conventional reel for casting?

The type of fishing line that works best with a conventional reel for casting depends on the fishing conditions and the species of fish you are targeting. Generally, monofilament fishing line is the most popular choice for conventional reels due to its versatility and ease of use. It is also less expensive than other types of fishing lines. However, if you are targeting larger fish or fishing in rough conditions, a braided fishing line may be a better choice. Braided fishing line is stronger and more durable than monofilament, but it can be more difficult to work with due to its lack of stretch. Fluorocarbon fishing line is another option that is popular among anglers. It is virtually invisible underwater and has a high sensitivity, making it ideal for fishing in clear water conditions. Ultimately, the best fishing line for your conventional reel will depend on your personal preferences and the fishing conditions you will be facing.

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