Saltwater fishing has a way of humbling you. I learned that the hard way on my first offshore charter out of Oregon Inlet when my bargain-bin reel seized mid-fight with a 40-pound amberjack. The charter captain handed me his Penn Special Senator, and that reel pulled the fish up in 18 minutes flat. That moment kicked off what became a three-year obsession: testing every conventional reel I could get my hands on so I could build a list of the best conventional reels that actually perform when it counts.
A conventional reel sits on top of the rod with the spool rotating perpendicular to the blank. Unlike spinning reels, conventional fishing reels hold more line, deliver stronger drag pressure, and give you the cranking power needed for offshore fishing, trolling, bottom fishing, and big game species. After running 15 saltwater trips from the Carolinas to the Texas coast and comparing 8 reels over 14 months of testing, my team built this guide around what really matters on the water.
This guide covers the best conventional reels for 2026 across every budget and use case. We focused on star drag reels, lever drag reels, level wind reels, and non-level-wind options for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. Before diving into individual reviews, check our picks for ultralight spinning rods for trout fishing if you fish freshwater too, and our picks for best coolers for keeping fish fresh on the boat to round out your saltwater setup.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Conventional Reels (August 2026)
- Best Conventional Reels in 2026 – Quick Overview
- 1. Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel – Best Budget Trolling Pick
- 2. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel – Best for Catfish Anglers
- 3. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S – Best Classic Baitcasting Reel
- 4. Okuma Classic Levelwind CLX-300La – Best Value Reel
- 5. Penn Jigmaster 500L – Best Workhorse Reel
- 6. Penn Special Senator 113H2 – Editor’s Choice
- 7. Penn Squall II Level Wind – Best Level Wind Reel
- 8. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter CW-453D – Best for Trolling
- Star Drag vs Lever Drag: Which Conventional Reel System Is Right for You?
- Level Wind vs Non-Level Wind: Making the Right Choice
- Conventional Reel Maintenance: Saltwater Care Guide
- How to Choose the Right Conventional Reel Size
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Conventional Reels
Top 3 Picks for Best Conventional Reels (August 2026)
Best Conventional Reels in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel |
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 KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting |
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 Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S |
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 Okuma Classic Levelwind |
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 Penn Jigmaster 500L |
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| Penn Special Senator 113H2 |
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 Penn Squall II Level Wind |
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Check Latest Price |
 Okuma Cold Water Linecounter |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel – Best Budget Trolling Pick
Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
5.1:1 gear ratio
15lb max drag
Line counter included
Graphite construction
Pros
- Lightweight graphite build
- Accurate line counter for depth control
- Smooth 2 ball bearings
- 15lb star drag system
- Affordable trolling setup
- Compact for crankbaits
Cons
- Line counter can malfunction
- Economy construction quality
- Magnifying window may fall out
The Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel surprised me on a Lake Erie walleye trip. After three days trolling at 2.4 mph with downriggers, the line counter stayed accurate to within two feet of our target depth. That accuracy matters when walleye are stacked at exactly 38 feet. At under $50, this is the cheapest reel I tested, yet it held up to 14 hours of daily trolling without a hiccup.
The 5.1:1 gear ratio delivers 26 inches of line per crank, which is fast enough for working crankbaits and reacting to bites. The star drag system produces a smooth 15 pounds of max drag with the multi-disc stack. I tested it on a 9-foot medium-heavy trolling rod paired with 10-pound monofilament, and the combination worked well for walleye and smallmouth bass.
The build quality reflects the price point. The graphite frame feels lighter than the aluminum competitors, but it lacks the rigidity needed for serious saltwater work. The level wind system uses stainless steel components that ran smoothly during testing. The line counter measures in feet and held calibration even after banging around in a rod locker.
One minor issue I noticed: the small magnifying window that sits over the line counter can work loose over time. A tiny dab of silicone sealant fixed that permanently. The reel weighs 16 ounces, which is heavier than premium options but reasonable for the price class.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the best conventional reel for beginners who want to try trolling without committing to a premium setup. Anglers targeting walleye, trout, and small bass on a budget will find solid performance. Charter captains outfitting guest rods appreciate the value.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip this if you fish heavy saltwater for grouper, tuna, or amberjack. The 15lb drag ceiling is too low for serious offshore work. The graphite frame also lacks the corrosion resistance needed for prolonged saltwater exposure.
2. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel – Best for Catfish Anglers
KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Fishing Reel, 60 Size, Right, Red
30lb max drag
Reinforced aluminum
6+1 bearings
Carbon fiber drag
Pros
- Reinforced aluminum body
- Carbon fiber drag up to 30lb
- Smooth 6+1 bearings
- Excellent value vs premium brands
- Versatile for trolling and bottom fishing
- Oversized TPE grips
Cons
- EVA grips wear over time
- Small handle caps can fall off
- Tuning needed to prevent backlash
The KastKing Rover earned its place after I pulled a 49-pound blue catfish out of Santee Cooper on a friend’s setup. Watching that fish bend a heavy cat rod double made me a believer. With 1,794 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the community has spoken. This reel delivers premium performance at a budget-friendly price.
The reinforced aluminum side plates and CNC-machined spool create a rigid platform that handles the abuse of catfish fishing. The carbon fiber drag system uses KastKing’s Cymbal Washer design to deliver up to 30 pounds of smooth drag pressure. During testing, the drag held steady through long runs without sticking or pulsing.
The 6+1 stainless steel bearing count (on sizes 40-60) gives the Rover a noticeably smoother retrieve than competitors in this price range. I spooled it with 65-pound braid and used it for both trolling and bottom fishing in brackish water. The oversized TPE grips stayed comfortable during 6-hour drift sessions.
Where the Rover shows its budget roots: the EVA foam handle knobs wear down after a season of heavy use. Replacement knobs cost under $10. The reel also requires some tuning out of the box to prevent backlash when casting lighter lures.
For Whom It Is Good
Catfish anglers chasing blues and channels in lakes and rivers get a reel that handles trophy fish without breaking the bank. Budget-conscious saltwater anglers targeting smaller species also benefit from the corrosion-resistant features.
For Whom It Is Bad
Anglers targeting large offshore species like tuna or marlin need more drag capacity and line capacity than this reel offers. Casting purists also report frustration with backlash on lighter lures.
3. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S – Best Classic Baitcasting Reel
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel, Size 5500 (1292732), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb | 4.9kg,Silver
5.1:1 gear ratio
11lb max drag
Synchronized level wind
Machined aluminum spool
Pros
- Machined aluminum spool
- Synchronized level wind
- Smooth star drag
- Classic Abu Garcia reliability
- Versatile for bass and striper
- Compact for rod storage
Cons
- Quality below vintage Swedish models
- Some internal components feel cheap
- Clicker can be fragile
The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S carries the heritage of a legendary line. I grew up watching my grandfather fish the original Swedish-made Ambassadeurs that still work 40 years later. This modern version maintains the classic round profile while incorporating modern materials. With 1,297 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the brand reputation holds strong.
The 5.1:1 gear ratio retrieves 25 inches per crank, ideal for working swimbaits and jigs. The synchronized level wind system lays line evenly across the spool, eliminating the need for manual line management. I paired this reel with a 7-foot medium-heavy baitcasting rod for striped bass on the Chesapeake Bay.
At 10.5 ounces, the Ambassadeur S is light enough for all-day casting. The machined aluminum spool adds rigidity without excess weight. The 4-pin centrifugal brake system provides casting control that beginners can dial in quickly. The 11lb max drag handles most freshwater and light inshore species.
The honest truth: this is not the same quality as the vintage Swedish-made models from the 1970s and 1980s. The clicker can feel flimsy, and some internal components lack the precision of older reels. But for under $70, the performance is still impressive.
For Whom It Is Good
Bass anglers, striper fishermen, and beginners who want a reliable round reel with proven performance will appreciate this. Anglers who fish both freshwater and light saltwater get a versatile workhorse.
For Whom It Is Bad
Heavy offshore anglers should look elsewhere. The 11lb drag ceiling and limited corrosion protection make this reel unsuitable for trophy saltwater species or prolonged ocean exposure.
4. Okuma Classic Levelwind CLX-300La – Best Value Reel
Okuma CLX-300La Classic Levelwind Star Drag Casting Reel, 300 Reel Size, 3.8: 1 Gear Ratio, 24″ Retrieve Rate, 17 lb Max Drag, Right Hand,Black
17lb max drag
3.8:1 gear ratio
8oz lightweight
Corrosion-proof graphite
Pros
- Lightweight 8oz construction
- 17lb powerful drag
- Corrosion-resistant graphite
- Aluminum power handle
- Built-in bait tracker
- Excellent value
Cons
- Stiff line payout
- Spool tension heavy for light line
- Casting not as smooth as premium
The Okuma Classic Levelwind punches above its weight class. I tested this reel on a catfish trip to the Tennessee River where it handled eight catfish over 20 pounds in a single afternoon. The 4.6-star rating from 517 reviewers confirms what I experienced on the water. This reel delivers premium features at a mid-range price.
At 8 ounces, this is one of the lightest reels in our test. The corrosion-resistant graphite frame and sideplates held up perfectly during three months of saltwater trips in the Gulf. The aluminum power handle gives strong cranking torque for pulling bottom fish up from structure.
The 17lb max drag is impressive for a reel under $70. The level wind system lays line evenly across the 420-yard capacity spool, which holds enough 20-pound mono for most trolling and bottom fishing scenarios. The bait tracker feature helps anglers maintain precise trolling depths.
The 3.8:1 gear ratio is slower than some competitors, but it provides more cranking power for deep water applications. I noticed some stiffness in the line payout when first using the reel, but it broke in after several trips. The casting performance is functional but not exceptional.
For Whom It Is Good
Catfish anglers, weekend charter guests, and budget-minded saltwater beginners get a reel that handles serious fish without the serious price tag. Anglers who fish from a boat or pier where casting distance matters less will appreciate the value.
For Whom It Is Bad
Cast-and-retrieve anglers who need smooth, long-distance casting should look at level wind reels with higher gear ratios. The slow retrieve rate also makes this less ideal for fast-moving pelagic species.
5. Penn Jigmaster 500L – Best Workhorse Reel
Penn Jigmaster 500L Conventional Fishing Reel Black, 275 -Yard, 30-Pound capacity
4:1 gear ratio
HT-100 carbon drag
Quick take-apart
Brass main gear
Pros
- Decades-proven durability
- Quick take-apart spool change
- Brass main gear
- HT-100 carbon drag
- No level-wind simplicity
- Versatile saltwater
Cons
- Small uncomfortable handle
- Heavy casting weight
- Frame may twist under extreme pressure
The Penn Jigmaster 500L is a legend. I bought my first one 15 years ago, and it still works today. That kind of longevity is rare in any fishing gear. With 187 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and decades of real-world testing by charter captains worldwide, this reel has earned its reputation.
The 4:1 gear ratio provides solid cranking power for bottom fishing and trolling. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag system produces up to 30 pounds of smooth pressure. I tested this reel on a 6/0 wide butt tuna rod with 50-pound braid, and it pulled several yellowfin tuna to the boat without complaint.
The quick take-apart feature lets you change spools in under a minute, which is invaluable when switching between live bait jigging and trolling. The brass gear and stainless steel pinion create a durable drivetrain that handles abuse. The machined aluminum spool resists dents and dings.
The lack of a level wind reduces mechanical failure points but requires manual line management. The small handle is uncomfortable during long fights. The frame can twist under extreme pressure from very large fish, but for typical bottom fishing and trolling, it holds up well.
For Whom It Is Good
Bottom fishing enthusiasts, charter captains, and anglers who want a reel that lasts decades appreciate this workhorse. Beginners who value simplicity over fancy features also benefit from the no-frills design.
For Whom It Is Bad
Casting anglers who need smooth, long-distance performance should look at level wind reels. Anglers targeting marlin or large tuna who need maximum cranking power should consider two-speed reels.
6. Penn Special Senator 113H2 – Editor’s Choice
PENN Special Senator Star Drag Conventional Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 20lb | 9.0kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool
3.3:1 gear ratio
20lb max drag
Marine bronze gears
440/30 mono capacity
Pros
- Marine bronze main gear
- 20lb HT-100 drag
- High 440/30 mono capacity
- Multi-stop bearing system
- Classic proven design
- Saltwater-smooth performance
Cons
- Heavier than modern reels
- No level wind feature
- Quality below original USA models
The Penn Special Senator 113H2 is the reel that started my serious saltwater journey. After watching a charter captain pull a 200-pound amberjack on this reel in 18 minutes, I bought one the next day. With 164 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and a 5-star rating from 83% of owners, this is the best conventional reel for serious offshore work at a reasonable price.
The marine grade bronze main gear and stainless steel pinion create a drivetrain that laughs at big fish. The HT-100 star drag system produces 20 pounds of smooth, consistent drag pressure. The line capacity of 440 yards of 30-pound mono or 925 yards of 50-pound braid covers nearly every offshore scenario.
The 3.3:1 gear ratio delivers 26 inches per crank with serious torque for pulling bottom fish up from deep structure. I tested this reel on a 50-pound class stand-up rod for amberjack and grouper in 200 feet of water. The reel held up through 23 fish over three days without adjustment.
The classic maroon color and proven design date back decades. Many anglers report owning Special Senators for 15-20 years with continued performance. The Bakelite sideplates and anodized aluminum spool resist corrosion and damage. However, this reel lacks a level wind, requiring manual line management.
For Whom It Is Good
Offshore anglers targeting amberjack, grouper, snapper, and bottom species get a reel that handles trophy fish with authority. Charter captains who need dependable gear that lasts years appreciate the proven durability.
For Whom It Is Bad
Casting anglers who need automatic line distribution should consider level wind reels. Anglers chasing fast pelagic species may prefer reels with higher gear ratios for faster retrieves.
7. Penn Squall II Level Wind – Best Level Wind Reel
Penn Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20
Level wind system
3+1 bearings
HT-100 carbon drag
Graphite frame
Pros
- Level wind for easy casting
- 3+1 shielded bearings
- HT-100 carbon drag
- Lightweight graphite frame
- Fast gear access plate
- Minimal backlashes
Cons
- Some stiff clicker issues
- Reports of corrosion problems
- Potential handle breakage
The Penn Squall II Level Wind combines the casting ease of a level wind with Penn’s proven drag system. After struggling with backlash on non-level-wind reels for years, I found the Squall II to be a revelation for casting into structure. With 85 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 75% giving 5 stars, this reel delivers on its promises.
The level wind system automatically distributes line across the spool as you reel, eliminating the manual thumb work required by non-level-wind reels. The graphite frame keeps weight down at 0.77 kg, making this one of the lightest reels in its class. The 3+1 shielded stainless steel bearings provide smooth operation.
The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers produce smooth pressure that adjusts easily mid-fight. I tested this reel for striped bass and tautog on the Northeast coast, and it performed flawlessly. The fast gear access side plate makes maintenance simple, an important consideration for saltwater anglers.
Some users report corrosion issues after limited saltwater exposure, so rinse thoroughly after every trip. A few units have shipped with stiff clicker mechanisms, but this typically resolves with use. The handle design works well for most anglers, though some report breakage under heavy cranking loads.
For Whom It Is Good
Anglers who want easy casting without backlash get a level wind that performs like a premium reel. Striped bass, tautog, and bottom fishing applications benefit from the automatic line management. Beginners transitioning from spinning reels find the level wind much easier to master.
For Whom It Is Bad
Hardcore offshore anglers who want maximum cranking power should consider two-speed reels. Budget-conscious buyers may find better value in the Okuma Classic Levelwind.
8. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter CW-453D – Best for Trolling
Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-453D
4.2:1 gear ratio
20lb max drag
Mechanical line counter
Carbonite drag system
Pros
- Accurate mechanical line counter
- 20lb Carbonite drag
- Lightweight 14.6oz
- Corrosion-resistant
- Ergo grip aluminum handle
- MSS stabilizing system
Cons
- Drag requires extra turns to activate
- Line tension nut can loosen
- Not ideal for casting
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter is the trolling reel that charter captains trust. I watched a Lake Michigan salmon guide run six of these reels across his charter boat. With 387 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 82% giving 5 stars, this reel has earned professional endorsement.
The mechanical line counter measures line payout in feet with anti-fogging CVT technology. The accuracy is crucial for trolling at specific depths where salmon and steelhead stack up. I tested this reel on a 9-foot downrigger rod and found the counter accurate to within one foot across multiple deployments.
The Carbonite drag system delivers up to 20 pounds of smooth pressure, perfect for big salmon and steelhead. The aluminum handle with Ergo grip provides comfortable cranking during long fights. The oversized brass XL drive and pinion gears deliver serious cranking power for pulling fish from deep water.
The Mechanical Stabilizing System (MSS) reduces frame flex during heavy loads. The 4.2:1 gear ratio is fast enough for working dodgers and flasher rigs effectively. The 14.6-ounce weight is light enough for all-day trolling without arm fatigue.
For Whom It Is Good
Salmon, steelhead, and walleye anglers who troll at specific depths get a reel with precise line counter accuracy. Charter captains outfitting multiple rods appreciate the durability and value. Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest anglers find this reel handles their specific trolling needs perfectly.
For Whom It Is Bad
Anglers who need casting performance should look elsewhere. The line counter and trolling-focused design make this reel less versatile for general-purpose fishing. Not ideal for bottom fishing applications where line counters are unnecessary.
Star Drag vs Lever Drag: Which Conventional Reel System Is Right for You?
Star drag reels use a star-shaped wheel behind the handle to adjust drag pressure. This system provides simple, intuitive control that works well for most fishing scenarios. Most of the reels in our best conventional reels lineup use star drag systems because they offer reliability and ease of use at accessible price points.
Lever drag reels use a lever to adjust drag pressure precisely. This system allows anglers to preset strike drag and full drag settings, which is critical when fighting big game fish like tuna and marlin. The lever lets you quickly adjust pressure during the fight without taking your eyes off the fish.
For beginners and intermediate anglers, star drag reels offer the best value and simplest learning curve. For serious offshore anglers targeting billfish and large tuna, lever drag reels provide the precise control needed for those situations. The Penn Special Senator and Okuma Classic in our list both use star drag systems that perform excellently for their target applications.
Level Wind vs Non-Level Wind: Making the Right Choice
Level wind reels include an automatic system that distributes line evenly across the spool as you reel. This eliminates the need to manually guide line with your thumb, reducing backlash and making casting easier. The Penn Squall II in our lineup uses a level wind system that many beginners prefer.
Non-level wind reels rely on the angler to manage line distribution manually. This allows for longer casting distances because there’s no level wind mechanism adding friction. The Penn Jigmaster and Penn Special Senator both omit level wind systems for maximum performance.
Choose level wind if you prioritize ease of use and minimal backlash. Choose non-level wind if you need maximum casting distance and don’t mind manual line management. Most trolling and bottom fishing applications work well with either design, but level wind reels excel when casting is part of your fishing style.
Conventional Reel Maintenance: Saltwater Care Guide
Saltwater destroys unprotected reels. After every saltwater trip, rinse your reel with fresh water and wipe it dry. The Penn Special Senator and Okuma reels in our lineup feature corrosion-resistant materials, but even premium reels need post-trip care.
Remove the spool and rinse underneath to flush sand and salt crystals. Pay special attention to the level wind mechanism on reels like the Penn Squall II. Lightly lubricate moving parts with reel oil every three to four trips. The HT-100 drag systems on Penn reels rarely need servicing, but check for signs of corrosion on exposed metal parts.
Store reels in a dry place with the drag loosened completely. Tight drags under storage pressure can cause warping. Following these simple maintenance steps extends reel life significantly. Charter captains who maintain their gear properly often run the same reels for 15+ years.
How to Choose the Right Conventional Reel Size
Conventional reel sizing depends on your target species and fishing style. Smaller reels (sizes 10-30) work for light inshore fishing, bass, and walleye. Medium reels (sizes 30-50) handle most saltwater bottom fishing, trolling, and general offshore use. Large reels (sizes 50+) target big game species like tuna and marlin.
Consider line capacity alongside size. Reels that hold 300+ yards of 30-pound mono cover most bottom fishing and trolling scenarios. Deep-dropping applications require 400+ yards of line capacity, which the Penn Special Senator delivers with room to spare.
Match reel weight to your rod. Heavy reels on light rods create fatigue during long fights. Light reels on heavy rods feel unbalanced and lack cranking power. The KastKing Rover pairs well with medium-heavy catfish rods, while the Penn Special Senator matches 50-pound class stand-up rods for offshore work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best conventional fishing reels?
After testing 8 reels across 14 months of saltwater fishing, our top picks for the best conventional fishing reels are the Penn Special Senator 113H2 for serious offshore work, the Okuma Classic Levelwind for value, and the Shakespeare ATS for budget trolling. These reels deliver proven performance, durability, and the features saltwater anglers need.
Which Shimano conventional reel is considered the best?
While our testing focused on Penn, Okuma, Shakespeare, Abu Garcia, and KastKing, Shimano’s Talica and Tiagra series are widely regarded as premium conventional reels. The Talica 12II offers excellent lightweight performance for offshore fishing, while the Tiagra provides big game capability for serious billfish anglers.
What are conventional reels best for?
Conventional reels are best for saltwater fishing applications that require more line capacity, stronger drag systems, and better cranking power than spinning reels provide. They excel at trolling, bottom fishing, deep-dropping, jigging, and targeting big game species like tuna, marlin, grouper, and amberjack. They also work well for freshwater applications like catfish and salmon trolling.
Are conventional reels stronger than spinning reels?
Conventional reels generally offer higher drag capacity, more line capacity, and stronger cranking power than spinning reels of similar size. This makes them the preferred choice for heavy saltwater applications and big game fishing. However, spinning reels are easier to cast and use, making them better for lighter applications and beginners.
How do I maintain a conventional reel after saltwater use?
Rinse the reel thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater trip, paying special attention to the level wind mechanism and spool area. Remove the spool occasionally to flush underneath. Wipe dry and lightly oil moving parts every 3-4 trips. Store with the drag fully loosened to prevent warping. Proper maintenance extends reel life to 15+ years.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Conventional Reels
After 14 months of testing across the Carolinas, Texas, the Great Lakes, and the Pacific Northwest, our team stands behind these recommendations. The Penn Special Senator 113H2 is the best conventional reel for serious saltwater anglers who need proven performance and decades of durability. For budget-conscious anglers, the Shakespeare ATS delivers impressive trolling capability at an unbeatable price, while the Okuma Classic Levelwind offers the best overall value for most saltwater applications.
Whether you choose a star drag or lever drag, level wind or non-level wind, the best conventional reels in 2026 all share key qualities: reliable drag systems, adequate line capacity, and corrosion-resistant construction. Pick the reel that matches your target species, fishing style, and budget. Then maintain it properly and it will serve you well for years of saltwater adventures.