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Best Conventional Surf Casting Reel (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a reliable surf fishing reel, a conventional surf casting reel is a top choice. This type of reel is designed to handle heavy fish and strong currents, making it ideal for surf fishing. However, before buying a surf casting reel, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, consider the line capacity of the reel. The line capacity should be able to handle a heavy fishing line, as well as allow for some room for backing. Additionally, ensure that the reel has a strong and durable frame to withstand the harsh saltwater environment.

Another factor to consider is the gear ratio of the reel. The gear ratio determines how many times the spool rotates for every turn of the handle. A higher gear ratio means faster retrieval of the line, making it easier to reel in fish. However, a lower gear ratio may provide more power for reeling in larger fish.

When choosing a conventional surf casting reel, you may be wondering which brand to choose or what features to look for. Do you need to spend more to get the best quality? Or can you find a great reel at a reasonable price? Keep reading to find out more and get answers to these questions and more!

10 Best Conventional Surf Casting Reel

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for saltwater beach and rock fishing with long-distance spool, designed for maximum casting distance.
2
This product is ideal for long distance saltwater fishing on beaches and rocks.
3
The product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional reels with a star drag system.
4
This product is ideal for fishing coastal waters with heavy tackle and large game fish.
5
The product is ideal for fishing in saltwater, especially for catching catfish.
6
Ideal for casting and surf fishing.
7
Ideal for fishing in surf and casting with 12-20lb line, made of 2-piece graphite composite, with black/gold design.
8
The product is ideal for fishing applications where a strong and reliable star drag reel is needed.
9
The product is ideal for surf fishing and casting large baits with its 2-piece graphite composite construction.
10
Ideal for fishing catfish, salmon/steelhead, striper bass, pike, and inshore surf with a baitcasting reel.
Ideal for saltwater beach and rock fishing with long-distance spool, designed for maximum casting distance.
This product is ideal for long distance saltwater fishing on beaches and rocks.
The product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who prefer conventional reels with a star drag system.
This product is ideal for fishing coastal waters with heavy tackle and large game fish.
The product is ideal for fishing in saltwater, especially for catching catfish.
Ideal for fishing in surf and casting with 12-20lb line, made of 2-piece graphite composite, with black/gold design.
The product is ideal for fishing applications where a strong and reliable star drag reel is needed.
The product is ideal for surf fishing and casting large baits with its 2-piece graphite composite construction.
Ideal for fishing catfish, salmon/steelhead, striper bass, pike, and inshore surf with a baitcasting reel.

1. Surfblaster Iii: Long Distance Saltwater Reel

Experience the power of the 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings with this top-of-the-line fishing reel. The slow oscillation system ensures precision and accuracy, while the fast and smooth HT-100 brake system keeps your line secure under heavy pressure. Cast further than ever before with the tapered spool, designed for long casting distances. And with the large T-crank knob, you'll enjoy added comfort during those long fishing trips.

Upgrade your fishing game with this high-quality reel, designed for both beginners and experts alike. With its durable construction and advanced features, you'll be able to catch more fish in less time. So why settle for anything less than the best? Invest in this top-rated fishing reel today and start reeling in the big ones!

Pros

  • 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings for maximum power and precision
  • Slow oscillation system ensures accuracy and control
  • Fast and smooth HT-100 brake system keeps your line secure under heavy pressure
  • Tapered spool designed for long casting distances
  • Large T-crank knob provides added comfort during long fishing trips

2. Penn Longcast Surf Fishing Reel

The fishing reel boasts of 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings, which ensures smooth operation and durability. Its slow oscillation system ensures an even line lay, thereby reducing the risk of line tangles. The fast and smooth HT-100 brake system ensures that the reel can handle heavy loads without experiencing any jerks or slips. With a tapered spool design, the reel offers long casting distances, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers. The large T-crank knob adds comfort and convenience, allowing for a comfortable grip even during long hours of use.

If you're looking for a fishing reel that offers durability, smooth operation, and long casting distances, then this is the perfect choice for you. Its slow oscillation system and HT-100 brake system work together to ensure a smooth and effortless fishing experience. The tapered spool design offers long casting distances, making it perfect for both fresh and saltwater fishing. Additionally, the large T-crank knob ensures added comfort, allowing you to fish for longer hours without experiencing any discomfort. Overall, this fishing reel is an excellent investment for any angler looking for quality and performance.

The fishing reel is designed to offer optimal performance and durability. Its slow oscillation system ensures an even line lay, reducing the risk of line tangles. The HT-100 brake system provides fast and smooth braking, making it easy to handle heavy loads. The tapered spool design ensures long casting distances, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. The large T-crank knob adds comfort and convenience, allowing for a comfortable grip even during prolonged use. With its high-quality construction and advanced features, this fishing reel is a must-have for any angler looking to take their fishing experience to the next level.

Pros

  • 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth operation and durability
  • Slow oscillation system ensures an even line lay, reducing the risk of line tangles
  • Fast and smooth HT-100 brake system can handle heavy loads without jerks or slips
  • Tapered spool design offers long casting distances, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers
  • Large T-crank knob adds comfort and convenience, allowing for a comfortable grip even during prolonged use

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. 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

5. 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

6. Penn 11’ Surf Casting Rod – Graphite Composite

The PENN 11' Squadron III Surf Conventional Rod is an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned saltwater anglers who want to take on smaller to moderate-sized species. This medium-heavy power rod features a 15-30lb line rating, making it strong yet flexible. The moderate-fast action of the rod makes it easy to feel even the slightest of bites, and the lure rating of 2-6 ounces allows you to cast a wide range of lures.

Built with PENN's durable Graphite Composite construction, this rod is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing. The 9 PENN DURA-GUIDES can endure rough handling while keeping lines strong under tension, without any of the insert pop-outs that can plague other rods. The Graphite Reel Seat provides a lightweight and secure anchor point for the reel, while the Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt gives you better control when battling your catch.

Overall, the PENN 11' Squadron III Surf Conventional Rod is a reliable, high-quality fishing rod that is perfect for saltwater fishing. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned angler, this rod will help you reel in your catch with ease.

Pros

  • Medium-heavy power rod suitable for moderate-sized species
  • 15-30lb line rating for strong yet flexible performance
  • Moderate-fast action for better bite detection
  • Durable Graphite Composite construction for long-lasting reliability
  • 9 PENN DURA-GUIDES for strong lines under tension
  • Graphite Reel Seat for a lightweight and secure anchor point
  • Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt for better control during battles

7. Penn Battalion Ii: The Ultimate Surf Casting Rod

The PENN 10’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Rod is a top-performing and reliable fishing tool that is built to win battles. With its premium guides and reel seats, this rod is lightweight and has a moderate fast action that complements its strength and performance. The rod has a medium power and a 12-20lb line rating, making it flexible yet strong. It has a lure rating of 1-4 ounces, which makes it suitable for a variety of fishing applications.

This rod is specifically designed for saltwater fishing, with PENN's durable Graphite Composite construction ensuring years of service. The 8 Fuji Alconite guides are built to withstand rough treatment while keeping lines strong under tension in both fresh and saltwater environments. The Fuji Graphite Reel Seat provides a lightweight and dependable anchor point for the reel, ensuring that you remain in control when battling your catch. The Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt offers extra grip and control, making it easier to handle the rod when fighting large fish.

Overall, the PENN 10’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Rod is an excellent choice for anglers looking for a high-quality saltwater fishing rod that offers strength, performance, and reliability. Whether you're targeting small to medium-sized fish or going after bigger game, this rod is sure to deliver a great fishing experience.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Strong and flexible
  • Durable Graphite Composite construction
  • Suitable for a variety of fishing applications
  • 8 Fuji Alconite guides are built to withstand rough treatment
  • Fuji Graphite Reel Seat provides a lightweight and dependable anchor point for the reel
  • Rubber Shrink Tube rod butt offers extra grip and control

8. 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

9. Ulua 2-Piece Surf Casting Rod

The PENN 13’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Ulua Rod is a long surf fishing rod that is designed to be a workhorse in the hands of anglers who want to catch mighty and massive fish, including Hawaiian `ulua. With a line rating of 50-80lb, medium-heavy power, and moderate-fast action, the Battalion II is strong, yet flexible. It has a lure rating of 6-10 ounces, which makes it suitable for catching a wide variety of fish.

Built for saltwater fishing, this rod features PENN's durable Graphite Composite construction, which provides unquestioned reliability under stress. The eight PACBAY CAXIN Spring Wire Guides are built to withstand hot lines, relentless fish, and epic battles. With hardware like this, you can put everything on the line and still come out on top. The Fuji Graphite Reel Seat is lightweight and dependable, providing an anchor point for the reel. The Stainless Steel Sleeve rod butt keeps you in control when battling your catch.

If you're looking for a reliable and durable fishing rod that can handle the toughest conditions and the biggest fish, the PENN 13’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Ulua Rod is an excellent choice. It is designed to give you the strength and flexibility you need to reel in your catch, and it is built to last, even in the harshest saltwater environments.

Pros

  • Strong and flexible design for battling mighty and massive fish
  • Durable Graphite Composite construction for reliability under stress
  • PACBAY CAXIN Spring Wire Guides built to withstand hot lines and relentless fish
  • Fuji Graphite Reel Seat provides a lightweight and dependable anchor point for the reel
  • Stainless Steel Sleeve rod butt keeps you in control when battling your catch

10. Sougayilang Catfish Reel: Ultimate Fishing Powerhouse

The Sougayilang TSSD conventional round trolling reel is designed to help trophy hunters catch big fish such as giant catfish, carp, walleye, and large saltwater species. With this reel, you can conquer the beasts of the deep and enjoy a pleasant fishing time. It is perfect for trolling, bottom fishing, and other freshwater and saltwater offshore fishing techniques. The reel has a large line capacity that can handle both braided and monofilament lines needed for targeting different species.

This reel is the best gift for fathers, sons, husbands, friends, and boyfriends on important holidays such as Christmas and New Year. Sougayilang is confident that their TSSD reel will provide an exceptional fishing experience.

Pros

  • Designed for trophy hunters to catch big fish
  • Suitable for freshwater and saltwater offshore fishing techniques
  • Large line capacity
  • Can handle both braided and monofilament lines
  • Ideal for trolling, bottom fishing, and other fishing techniques
  • Makes a great gift for fishing enthusiasts

Best Conventional Surf Casting Reel FAQs

How do you properly cast a conventional surf casting reel?

Casting a conventional surf casting reel can seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique and practice, it can become second nature. First, make sure your reel is properly set up with the correct line weight and leader. Next, hold the rod with your dominant hand and grip the reel with your other hand. With your thumb on the spool, point the rod towards your target area.

To begin the cast, pull the rod back with a smooth motion, keeping your elbow close to your body. As you reach the 10 o'clock position, begin to push the rod forward with a flick of your wrist, releasing your thumb from the spool at the same time. Allow the momentum of the cast to carry the lure or bait towards your target.

It's important to practice this motion and adjust the amount of force and speed you use based on wind conditions and the weight of your bait. With practice, you'll be able to cast with accuracy and distance, improving your chances of catching fish. Remember, always be aware of your surroundings and never cast towards people or objects.

What are some of the best conventional surf casting reels on the market and what features should you look for when purchasing one?

When it comes to surf casting reels, there are numerous options available in the market. However, some of the best conventional surf casting reels that you can consider are the Shimano Ultegra XSD Surf, Penn Slammer III, Daiwa Saltist, and Okuma Cedros CJ-65S.

When purchasing a surf casting reel, there are certain features that you should look for. Firstly, the size of the reel should be appropriate for the size of the fish you're targeting. The drag system should be smooth and strong enough to handle the weight of the fish. Additionally, the gear ratio should be high enough to provide you with the necessary speed and power to retrieve the fish.

Another important factor to consider is the material and construction of the reel. Look for reels made of high-quality materials, such as aluminum or graphite, as they tend to be more durable and resistant to corrosion. Finally, make sure that the reel is comfortable to handle and has a good grip, as you'll be using it for extended periods.

Overall, when choosing a conventional surf casting reel, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences, as well as the features and specifications of the reel. By doing so, you'll be able to select a reel that meets your needs and provides you with an enjoyable and successful fishing experience.

What are the benefits of using a conventional surf casting reel for surf fishing?

There are several benefits of using a conventional surf casting reel for surf fishing. Firstly, conventional surf casting reels are designed to handle heavy lines and large fish, making them ideal for surf fishing. They also have a higher line capacity, allowing you to cast farther and target larger fish species.

Secondly, conventional surf casting reels have a smooth and powerful drag system, which is essential for fighting big fish in rough surf conditions. The drag system helps you control the fish and prevent them from running away with your line.

Thirdly, conventional surf casting reels are more durable and long-lasting compared to spinning reels. They are built with high-quality materials and have fewer moving parts, reducing the chances of breakage or malfunction.

Lastly, conventional surf casting reels offer more accuracy and control over your casting distance and accuracy. With practice, you can learn to cast your bait or lure exactly where you want it to go, increasing your chances of catching fish.

In summary, the benefits of using a conventional surf casting reel for surf fishing include increased line capacity, a powerful drag system, durability, and improved accuracy and control over your casting distance and accuracy.

What is a conventional surf casting reel and how does it differ from other fishing reels?

A conventional surf casting reel is a type of fishing reel that is specifically designed for surf fishing. It is a large, heavy-duty reel that can handle heavy lines and large fish. The conventional surf casting reel is different from other fishing reels in a number of ways. For starters, it has a much larger spool than other reels, which allows for longer casting distances. Additionally, it has a higher gear ratio, which means that it can retrieve line more quickly. This is important when fishing in the surf, as you need to be able to quickly reel in your line to avoid getting tangled in the waves. Another difference is that the conventional surf casting reel has a more robust drag system, which allows you to apply more pressure to the fish when fighting it. Overall, the conventional surf casting reel is an essential tool for any serious surf fisherman, as it allows you to fish in challenging conditions and catch larger fish.

What is the ideal line capacity for a conventional surf casting reel?

The ideal line capacity for a conventional surf casting reel depends on the type of fishing one plans to undertake. For surf fishing, a reel with a line capacity of at least 300 yards of 20-30 lb test monofilament line is recommended. However, if one is targeting larger species such as sharks or tuna, a reel with a higher line capacity of 400-500 yards of 40-60 lb test line may be necessary.

It's important to note that line capacity alone isn't the only factor in determining the suitability of a reel for surf fishing. Factors such as drag system, gear ratio, and overall build quality are also important considerations. A high-quality surf casting reel with a suitable line capacity can greatly enhance one's fishing experience, allowing for longer casts and increased chances of hooking into larger fish.

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