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We are firm believers of buying a decent reel once, rather than buying a mediocre reel twice. For pike fishing, you want a durable, reliable reel with a decent drag system.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We receive a lot of questions about pike reels, so we figured we would do a dedicated article focusing on what we feel are the best reels for pike fishing and why.
We have put together a list of our favorite reel picks specifically for pike fishing from a variety of brands, and that should give some good suggestions for most budget ranges.
Contents
Best Reel For Pike Fishing (Fly, Spinning & Baitcaster)
Spinning reels, baitcasting reels and fly fishing reels all work pretty well for pike fishing, here is a rundown of our picks;
1. Shimano Curado K Baitcast Reel
- Built tournament tough, this low-profile baitcasting reel is the benchmark for durability and reliability which is...
- Featuring Shimano’s latest technology such as the super smooth, efficient, and durable MicroModule Gearing
- Employs SVS Infinity braking system providing easy-to-manage and consistent spool control and brake force for...
- Utilizes X-Ship technology to improve durability and long-lasting performance, as well as a smoother, more powerful...
- Max Drag: 11 lbs. / Gear Ratio: 6.2:1. / Weight: 7.6 oz. / Line Retrieve: 26" / Bearings: 6BB + 1RB – PowerPro...
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Right off the bat, what we have here is quite likely the best Shimano reel for Pike fishing.
One of the cool things here is that there are various sizes to choose from. However, no matter what size you choose, keep in mind that this is a low profile baitcasting reel, so it doesn’t take up very much space, and it doesn’t get in your way either.
What you may also like is that this particular reel weighs only 0.75 pounds, which makes it extremely lightweight.
This particular reel comes complete with line capacity of 110 yards of 14 pound mono line or 180 yards of eight pound line.
What you also need to know here is that this fishing reel features a maximum drag of 11 pounds, and it does have quite a high quality drag system too.
Moreover, in terms of the gear ratio, what you get here is 6.2 to 1, Which means that it is able to haul in a whole lot of line with minimal effort.
The SVS Infinity breaking system is very nice too, because it allows for good school management and brakeforce.
The other important thing to note about this fishing reel is the fact that it is built quite tough and utilizes special technology that helps to improve its overall toughness.
In terms of smoothness, keep in mind that here you get 6 ball bearings and one roller bearing, all of which are made with stainless steel, so you know that it’s a smooth reel with great casting and retrieval capabilities.
Pros
- Tough
- Lightweight
- Low profile
- Saltwater ready
- Smooth
- Fast gear system
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Limited line capacity
2. Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If what you are looking for is a fast and durable fishing reel that is also extremely smooth, then this is a fantastic option from Abu Garcia to keep in mind.
First off, what you get here is a power stack carbon matrix drag system that allows for consistent pressure and allows for up to 24 pounds of drag, which is quite a bit.
What’s also worth noting here is that this is a very low profile and lightweight reel that doesn’t take up much space and won’t wear you down either while at the same time also featuring an extremely strong frame that is made out of a variety of alloys as well as carbon fiber.
Not only is this an extremely strong fishing reel, but it’s also very resistant to corrosion.
You may also like how this Abu Garcia fishing reel features a gear ratio of 6.6 to one, which means that it does haul in a heck of a lot of line with a single handle turn.
What do you also get? Here is a dual breaking system that allows for great control. Do keep in mind that this particular fishing reel does come with a full 9 stainless steel ball bearing as well as one roller bearing.
This allows for extremely smooth operation, likely much smoother than any other fishing reel out there at this time.
Let’s not forget the brass gear for extended gear life. This is definitely a high quality fishing reel.
Pros
- Superior durability
- Lightweight and low profile
- Very fast gear ratio
- 10 stainless steel bearings
- High quality components
- Great dual braking system
- Comfortable to hold
Cons
- Drag can be hard to adjust
3. Daiwa Tatula Elite Baitcasting Reel
- The Daiwa Tatula Elite Baitcasting Reel is a high-performance, low profile version of Daiwa's already killer series...
- Designed and engineered with distance casting as the primary focus.
- Re-designed A7075 aluminum spool is extremely lightweight, allowing for increased casting distance with minimal...
- Modified Magforce braking, T-Wing System (TWS), and Zero Adjuster.
- Available in Left and Right Hand retrieve in 6.3:1, 7.1:1, and 8.1:1 gear ratios.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a simple yet reliable fishing reel for pike fishing, then this option is a great one to consider.
First and foremost, this particular fishing reel is made out of a variety of high-quality materials, such as a specialty aluminum, brass and stainless steel.
This reel can take a whole lot of punishment as it is built tough and moreover, although it’s not exactly designed for saltwater use, it is fairly corrosion resistant.
Now, the most important thing for you to keep in mind here is that this fishing reel is designed first and foremost for casting distance.
It’s all about being able to cast far distances with minimal effort. A part of this is thanks to the very lightweight aluminum spool as well as the overall lightweight design of this reel.
Not to mention the fact that it’s also a low profile reel that won’t get in your way.
What’s really cool is that this reel comes in various gear ratios with the highest one being 8.1 to 1, which is an extremely fast gear ratio, thus allowing you to haul in a whole lot of line with minimal effort.
On a side note, one thing that does need to be said about this fishing reel is that we are sure of what the maximum drag is, although we assume that it is not over 20 pounds.
You may however like the Magforce braking system, the T-wing system, and the zero adjuster.
What is also worth noting is that this fishing reel comes complete with seven stainless steel ball bearings and one stainless steel roller bearing which results in extremely smooth operation, especially when it comes to retrieval.
Pros
- High quality build
- Durable components
- Corrosion resistant
- Various gear ratios
- Comfortable to hold
- Many near features
- Very smooth operation
Cons
- Unknown maximum drag
4. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C4 Reel
- casting-reels, reelsale
- 6 pin centrifugal brake gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Here we have another fishing reel from the Abu Garcia brandname, and yes, this one is also very high in quality.
For one, most of this fishing reel is made out of either stainless steel or carbon, both of which are very strong materials, and moreover neither above will rust.
So you can rest assured that this is not a reel that will corrode on you. In terms of its overall smoothness in this particular model comes complete with four stainless steel ball bearings as well as one stainless steel roller bearing.
It might not look like much, but it’s actually one of the smoother reels out there.
What is also worth mentioning is that this model comes complete with A6 pen centrifugal brake system that allows for consistent breaking power.
What’s also pretty cool is that here you get a two gear system that is extremely strong.
Moreover, in terms of the gear ratio, what you get here is a ratio of 6.3 to 1. which is quite speedy of course.
When it comes to fishing line capacity, this particular model can hold up to 320 yards of 12 pound monofilament line, which is quite impressive, no doubt.
What is also worth mentioning here is that this Abu Garcia fishing reel only weighs 0.58 pounds, thus making it extremely lightweight.
Now it’s not a low profile fishing reel, but at least it doesn’t weigh very much. The carbon matrix drag system that allows for up to 15 pounds of drag is nothing to look down your nose at either.
Pros
- Durable materials
- Very smooth operation
- Looks cool
- Great line capacity
- Superior durability
- Good drag system
- Good gear ratio for pike
Cons
- Quite chunky
5. Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel
- CAST WORRIES AWAY: Pflueger President XT baitcaster reels combine smooth operation with a durable yet lightweight...
- SIZE LP LOW PROFILE BAITCAST REEL: Features an aluminum handle and soft touch rubber cork knobs that are suitable...
- RECOVER 31" | 78.7cm for every turn of the crank. Gear ratio of 7.3:1. Features an Aluminum spool.
- STAR DRAG with a max drag of 17lb to help tire out the fish, so you can reel in the catch. The 9-ball bearing...
- LINE CAPACITY: Mono Capacity yd/lb: 145/12 125/14 100/17 for optimal casting distance and accuracy.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for what has to be one of the lowest profile and lightest fishing reels out there then this is a fantastic option to go with.
This thing comes in at only 0.5 pounds thus currently making it by far the lightest on the list so far.
One of the cool features that you get here is the magnetic breaking system combined with the externally adjustable brake controls.
In terms of ease of use, you might also like the soft touch knobs with the soft rubber grips to provide you with great traction and comfort all day long.
In terms of the gear ratio, this reel sets at 7.3 to 1, which means that it can retrieve a full 31 inches of line per handle crank, and that is of course a whole lot of speed.
The fact that this particular reel comes complete with a 9 bearing system complete with quote erosion, resistance, stainless steel ball bearings is a pretty big bonus as well.
Based on this, it is safe to assume that this is an extremely smooth fishing reel that allows for easy casting and retrieval.
Moreover, the fact that it is made out of extremely durable materials such as stainless steel and aircraft grade aluminum isn’t too shabby either.
It’s definitely one of the toughest fishing reels on the list today, and it definitely won’t rust.
Although this particular baitcasting reel might look pretty simple and also be fairly cost effective, we do actually think that it is one of the better ones out there at this time.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Super compact
- Quite durable
- Good gear ratio for pike
- High quality ball bearings for smoothness.
- Great braking system
- Highly adjustable
Cons
- Drag is not stated
6. Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel
- A STEP ABOVE: The Pflueger President XT spinning reels take our standard President series to the next level of...
- SIZE 40 SPINNING REEL: Features an aluminum main shaft and pinion gear for added strength and durability. The...
- RECOVER 38" | 97cm for every turn of the crank. Gear ratio of 6.2:1. Features an Aluminum spool.
- SEALED OIL FELT FRONT DRAG with a max drag of 14lb to help tire out the fish, so you can reel in the catch. The...
- LINE CAPACITY: Mono Capacity yd/lb: 285/8 230/10 195/12 for optimal casting distance and accuracy.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Alright, so if you are looking for a fishing reel that is a bit more user-friendly than a baitcaster, then this particular spinning reel might be a good option for you to go with.
Now this spinning reel is made out of fairly durable materials, as it is made out of high quality aluminum, brass, and stainless steel.
One thing that you don’t have to worry about with this fishing reel is that it will corrode. Moreover, for a spinning reel, it is actually quite tough.
To keep your fishing reel from corroding, it also comes with a sealed drag system with sealed drag washers that are always lubricated and extremely smooth.
You may also like the fully adjustable and super high quality drag system that can produce after 14 pounds of drag. It’s not the most drag of all fishing reels, but it’s definitely enough for Pike fishing.
Don’t forget that the presidential spinning reel comes complete with ten ball bearings, or to be exact, 10 stainless steel and corrosion resistant bearings with nine of them being ball bearings and one being a roller bearing.
What is also worth noting here is thanks to the special materials used in the construction of this fishing reel.
It’s also extremely lightweight, much lighter than most other spinning reels. In terms of the gear ratio, what you get here is a ratio of 6.2 to 1, which means that it can haul in well over 31 inches of line per handle crank.
Actually, one of the coolest things about this particular spinning reel is the fact that it is braid ready, or in other words, it comes with a spool that can handle braid being tied to it directly.
Pros
- Fairly lightweight
- Beginner friendly
- Decent drag system
- Good gear ratio for pike
- Braid ready spool
- Pretty good line capacity
- Very smooth operation
Cons
- Not ideal for distance casting
7. KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reel
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One of the best features that you get with this particular baitcasting reel is the fact that it is designed to be extremely comfortable.
Ergonomics and comfort are the two main things that you get with this reel. Although that is of course not all.
That said, it does come complete with a very low profile and lightweight design that makes it feel like there is barely a reel there at all. It’s definitely a user friendly baitcaster.
Now, one of the absolute coolest things about this particular fishing reel is the fact that it comes in four different gear ratios.
These include 5.3:1, 6.6:1, 7.3:1, and 8.1:1. This means that you should have no problems finding the Best gear ratio for your exact fishing needs.
The fact that this fishing reel comes with a carbon drag system that can produce up to 17.6 pounds of drag is pretty impressive as well.
Moreover, this fishing reel is made out of a combination of stainless steel, graphite and other materials, all of which are very durable, tough, can handle a lot of punishment, and are also corrosion.
Resistant to this is a professional level baitcasting reel that comes in at a very good price. What also needs to be said here is that this fishing reel is actually saltwater ready.
What you also need to know here is that this is a very smooth fishing reel and it’s all thanks to the fact that it comes complete with 10 double shielded stainless steel bearings.
Not only do these allow for a very smooth operation, but they won’t corrode either. You might also like the instant anti reverse feature as well as the stainless steel kick leverage.
Pros
- Rustproof and saltwater ready
- Very durable overall
- Compact and lightweight
- Ergonomically friendly
- Various gear ratios to choose from
- Very smooth
- Great drag system
Cons
- Might make a clicking sound
- Has some small technical issues on occasion
8. Abu Garcia Revo Rocket Baitcast Fishing Reel
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Now do beware that this is not a particularly beginner-friendly option, as it is designed for professional use, and the cost of it definitely matches this sentiment.
One of the absolute most impressive things about this Abu Garcia fishing reel is the fact that it comes with a gear ratio of 10.1 to 1, which means that it can hold in a whopping 41 inches of line per handle revolution, which is way more than anything else that we have looked at today.
This allows you to haul in those fish with excellent speed. What also stands out about this fishing reel is the very high quality drag system that it comes with, one which can produce up to 18 pounds of drag, which should be more than enough for Pike.
Yet another impressive feature that you get here is the fact that this reel comes with a full 11 bearings. It comes complete with 10 stainless steel and corrosion resistant ball bearings as well as one corrosion resistant roller bearing.
It’s quite likely the smoothest real that we have on the list today. In terms of line capacity, this reel can hold up to 175 yards of 10lb mono line, or 100 yards of 17 pound mono line, which is not all that impressive, but not a deal breaker either.
What is however very impressive is that this whole reel, at least most of it is made out of stainless steel, which is not only very durable but also resistant to corroding and rusting.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Superior smoothness
- Very fast line retrieval
- Fantastic drag system
- All around great features
Cons
- Somewhat large and heavy
- Not the best for beginners
Best Fly Reel for Pike Fishing
Besides spinning reels and baitcasting reels, when it comes to Pike fishing, you can also use fly fishing year such as a fly fishing reel.
Right now we want to take a quick look at the best fly fishing reel for Pike fishing out there. When it comes to Northern Pike, this might actually be the best option at your disposal.
Redington Behemoth Fly Reel
- BEHEMOTH FLY REEL: Combines the most powerful drag in its class with stunning aesthetics that push the limits of...
- QUALITY DESIGN: The unique, un-machinable, die-cast construction is coupled with a durable, interlocking,...
- HEAVY DUTY DRAG: A super-heavy duty carbon fiber drag package brings the utmost in drag strength, reliability and...
- EASY RETRIEVE: The large arbor is designed for speedy line retrieval and reduced line memory. Twin molded handle...
- BACKING CAPACITY: [5/6] 125 yards / 20 lb, [7/8] 200 yards / 20 lb, [9/10] 200 yards / 30 lb, [11/12] 250 yards /...
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Of course, what you do need to know about any fly fishing reel, not just this one, is that it does take a great deal of skill to use.
Fly fishing is not easy in the least, but it is very fun. That being said, fly fishing is better reserved for fishermen who know what they are doing.
That aside, what you get here is a non machinable and very unique diecast fly fishing reel that is made out of carbon fiber.
Due to the fact that it is made out of carbon fiber, not only is it extremely durable and totally rustproof, but it’s also very lightweight, coming in at just 0.5 pounds.
What you may also like is how this fly fishing reel comes complete with a very large Arbor which is designed to increase retrieval speed and to reduce line memory at the same time.
You might also like the fact that it comes complete with an adjustable drag system, although exactly how much drag it can provide is somewhat unclear.
The other thing that you might appreciate about this particular fly fishing reel from Redington is that it comes with twin molded handles that are very comfortable to use.
Pros
- Durable
- Rustproof
- Lightweight
- Large arbor
- Great retrieval speed
- Adjustable drag
- Great line capacity
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
FAQ
Baitcaster or Spinning Reel for Pike?
What type of fishing reel you go with for Pike fishing? Really depends on what your needs and preferences are.
On one hand, you have the spinning reel, which is designed for ease of use and is ideal for beginners.
Spinning reels are also better used with smaller diameter line. With that being said, most spinning reels do have great retrieval speeds, which is of course ideal for Pike fishing.
That being said, if what you are going for is very fast retrieval smooth operation, an great casting distance, and you want to have fairly heavy line on your spool, then it is probably best to go with a baitcasting fishing reel.
What’s the Best Gear Ratio for Pike Fishing?
For Pike fishing, most people would recommend a gear issue of 6.3 to 1 as this is a good medium speed that can haul in fighting fish and also allow for fast retrieval.
With that being said, for Pike fishing, some people prefer extremely high gear ratios for very fast retrievals, which is why we did review a specific fishing reel today that featured a gear ratio of 10.1 to 1.
What Size Reel for Pike Fishing?
If you are using a spinning reel, you want to use sizes 3000, 3500 or 4000, but if you are using a baitcasting reel then the optimal size is either a 200 or 300.
Conclusion
Now that we have reviewed the very best spinning reels, baitcasting reels and fly fishing reels for Pike fishing, you can now make an informed decision as to which one will work best for you.
