10 Best Surf Fishing Reels 2025 in the United States

The PENN Battle III Spinning Inshore Fishing Reel is a solid choice for surf fishing enthusiasts, earning recognition as the 2020 ICAST Online Best of Category for saltwater reels. One of its standout features is the durable all-aluminum construction, which provides excellent resistance to the harsh conditions often encountered in saltwater environments. The 6.2:1 gear ratio allows for efficient retrieval, recovering 35 inches with each turn, making it suitable for catching larger fish.

The reel's HT-100 front drag system is impressive, utilizing carbon fiber washers that can handle a maximum drag of 15 pounds. This means you can confidently battle bigger catches without the reel wearing out too quickly. Additionally, the six stainless steel ball bearings, including an instant anti-reverse bearing, ensure a smooth operation, which is a big plus when you're out fishing for long periods.

It’s important to note that while this reel is designed for inshore use, it may not be the best option for heavier offshore conditions. The max drag of 15 pounds is great for inshore species, but for those targeting bigger game fish, a reel with a higher drag capacity might be needed. Also, some users may prefer a reel with a wider line capacity, especially if they like to experiment with different line types. The PENN Battle III weighs only 11.6 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle for extended fishing sessions. The ambidextrous handle orientation accommodates all users, which is a thoughtful feature.

The PENN Spinfisher VI Spinning Surf Fishing Reel is a robust and reliable choice for surf fishing enthusiasts. Its all-metal construction and IPX5 sealed aluminum reel spool make it highly resistant to corrosion, an essential feature for saltwater environments. The reel's HT-100 front drag system, with a maximum drag of 20 pounds, ensures you can handle larger fish without difficulty.

The precision CNC gear technology and a 6.2:1 gear ratio offer smooth and efficient operation, with a recovery rate of 40 inches per turn, which is quite impressive. Additionally, the reel provides ample line capacity for both mono and braided lines, enhancing its versatility. The six stainless steel ball bearings, including one instant anti-reverse bearing, contribute to the reel's smooth performance and reliability during retrievals. The ambidextrous handle design allows for comfortable use by both right and left-handed anglers.

On the downside, the reel weighs 0.76 pounds, which might be considered heavy for prolonged use. Moreover, while the all-metal construction is durable, it can add to the overall weight, making it less ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear. The manual bail trip for larger sizes (6500-10500) might also require some getting used to for those accustomed to automatic bails. The PENN Spinfisher VI offers excellent durability, smooth performance, and versatility, making it a solid choice for serious surf fishing, though its weight and manual bail trip could be potential drawbacks for some users.

The PENN Wrath II Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel (Size 5000) is built to offer reliability and strength, making it a solid choice for surf fishing. Its corrosion-resistant graphite body and machined anodized aluminum spool provide durability and smooth operation, even in tough saltwater conditions. This reel features a gear ratio of 5.6:1, which means it retrieves line quickly—36 inches with each turn of the crank. This can be especially useful when you're trying to reel in fish swiftly.

The 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth performance and the instant anti-reverse bearing helps prevent back play, making your fishing experience more efficient and enjoyable. The drag system uses felt, known for its quick response, and supports a maximum drag of 20 pounds, suitable for handling larger fish. Line capacity is ample, with room for 225 yards of 12-pound mono line or 420 yards of 20-pound braided line, giving you flexibility in line choice.

However, the reel has some limitations. The felt drag system, while quick, may not be as durable as other materials like carbon fiber over time. Additionally, with only two ball bearings plus one anti-reverse bearing, it might not be as smooth as reels with higher bearing counts in this price range. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PENN Wrath II stands out for its strong construction and dependable performance, making it a worthwhile option for anglers looking for a robust surf fishing reel.