Best Trout Fishing Reels: Best Trout Reels Review, Buyers Guide, FAQs and More

Best Trout Fishing Reels

 

There is certainly nothing better than eating a freshly caught trout, especially if it is the one you have caught fresh out of a river or stream. However, for many fishers, trying to catch a trout feels like a whole new realm of fishing. It is particularly considered difficult as the best water for trout is usually shallow, and trout are elusive and finicky. Moreover, trout have a tendency of put up a fight even when you have got one on your line.

 

Although a lot of anglers know fly fishing to catch trout, it is not your only way to catch trout. If you want to catch hold of these elusive species using a lightweight good trout reel, this read is for you.

Now, the problem is there are many reels in the market that are labelled as the best trout reels. So, of this overwhelming variety of options, how do you pick the best trout fishing reel? Well, fret no more. We have done all the groundwork for you. You can read through our trout reels review, and hopefully after our in-depth analysis of some of the top reels available in the market, it will be easy for you to find a reel that best suits your needs and meets the fishing conditions where you wish to undertake trout fishing.

 

Quickly Navigate Through The Best Trout Reels

 

9 Best Trout Reels

Product Rating Price Buy Now
Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel

Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel

4.6

$129.99 Buy Now
Okuma Epixor XT

Okuma Epixor XT

4.6

$67.65-99.72 Buy Now
Pflueger President PRESSP30X

Pflueger President PRESSP30X

4.7

$54.95 – $149 Buy Now
Penn Battle II Spinning Reel

Penn Battle II Spinning Reel

4.7

$87.41 – $315.65 Buy Now
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel

Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel

4.7

$42.46 Buy Now
Shimano Stradic CI4

Shimano Stradic CI4+

4.6

$279.99 – $623.19 Buy Now
KastKing Sharky III 3000

KastKing Sharky III 3000

4.6

$51.99 Buy Now
Daiwa BG Trout Spinning Reel

Daiwa BG Trout Spinning Reel

4.7

$95.99-$149.95 Buy Now
Abu Garcia Revo 2SX10

Abu Garcia Revo 2SX10

4.6

$137.36 – $181.82 Buy Now

1. Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel- BEST OVERALL

If you need the best trout spinning reel, which is engineered to perform, there is none better than the Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel. The reel is constructed from the C-40X long-strand carbon fiber. It comes with a super-lightweight graphite design, which is why its superior precision and strength are present in every cast you make.

 

Its C-40X construction is the reason for its corrosion-resistance. The carbon fibers continue to hold strong even in the most challenging environmental conditions. Moreover, this gives the reel 50 percent more strength than the other graphite competitors. What’s more? It is also twenty-five percent lighter than most of them.

 

This reel has a Torsion Control Armor across the body. This holds the reel body within the wide yoke. It virtually eliminates flex and twist. Hence, if you need a full rotor system, which goes above and beyond, Helios SX is a good pick. Unlike most other systems, which try to keep the water off the reel, the reel’s cyclonic flow rotor works to evacuate water entirely. Hence, that ensures that the reel simultaneously stays as dry as possible.

 

Lastly, this reel is capable of performing well in every water and weather conditions. Considering these trout reels reviews it is indeed the best overall spinning reel and rightfully ranked at number one in our list, primarily for its versatility.

 

Okuma Helios Lightweight Spinning Reel $129.99

4.6

Buy Now

 

Key features

  1. C-40X Construction
  2. Torsion Control Armor (TCA)
  3. Cyclonic Flow Rotor (CFR)
  4. Rotor Equalizing System (RESII)
  5. Carbon Fiber Drag System
  6. Alumilite Alloy Gearing
  7. Quick-Set Anti-Reverse

 

Pros

  • Made from stainless steel and aluminium
  • Comes with an anti-reverse function
  • Includes a foam padded grip

 

Cons

  • Does seem like an overkill for a small fish

 

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2. Okuma Epixor XT – BEST VALUE

The Okuma Epixor XT is indeed a powerful and a new generation spinning reel. More so, its lightweight design ensures that you enjoy a good fishing day without ending up with wrist exhaustion, which is the prime outcome of spending long hours on the water.

 

The rock-solid functionality of the reel is primarily because of its innovative and advanced technology integration that offers the latest insight and best technology. With the use of C-40X, this becomes one of the best trout reels. It brings a long-strand carbon fiber against the torsion control armor frame, along with the graphite side plates and rotor for the ultimate stability and control. If you like the braided lines, the Epixor XT comes with a slow oscillation system. It ensures a clean line lay during retrieval. On the whole, it is a good trout reel, which brings in premium features to any tackle box without burning a hole in your pocket.

 

Okuma Epixor XT $67.65-$99.72

4.6

Buy Now

 

Key features

  1. TCA: Torsion Control Armor reduces twisting
  2. Multi-disc, Japanese oiled felt drag washers
  3. Stainless steel bearings
  4. Quick-Set anti-reverse bearing
  5. A precision, machine-cut brass pinion gear
  6. Slow oscillation system for improved line lay
  7. Corrosion-resistant graphite body and rotor
  8. CFR: Cyclonic Flow Rotor technology
  9. C-40X Carbon Fibre Technology
  10. Rigid metal handle design for strength
  11. Machined aluminum, 2-tone anodized spool with LCS lip
  12. Heavy-duty solid aluminum bail wire
  13. RESII: Computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System
  14. 1-K woven carbon fiber drag knob

 

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Saltwater and freshwater capable
  • Drag is smooth

 

Cons

  • Drag system could be made faster
  • Foam grips tend to gather funk which is not easy to clean

 

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3. Pflueger President PRESSP30X – Budget Choice

Even though you can get the Pflueger President at a fairly reasonable rate, it still has a myriad of top-of-the-line features, which make it the best trout spinning reel. To start with, this reel comes with ten percent less body weight. However, that in no way means that there is any compromise on the durability of the reel. Being lighter means that your wrists would not be fatigued as quickly or as much, even when you are using this best trout fishing reel for an extended period.

 

It is primarily because both the rotor and the body of this reel is engineered from graphite. Graphite is the perfect pick if you seek portability and durability in your reel.

 

This is a good trout reel, and you can find it in five different sizes. However, we prefer PRESSP30X if you wish to engage in trout fishing. It is because it weighs only 8.3 lbs, and you can drag approximately a nine-pound fish via it. The best part is that it does so at high speed of 25.2 inches/crank. All of this is made possible owing to its gear ratio of 5.2:1. All of these specifications make it a good trout reel and perfectly suitable for reeling in an average-sized trout seamlessly, without being very slow or heavy.

 

Further, to ensure the requisite comfort, with this reel, you get a soft-touch ergonomic knob. It facilitates gripping, and being dimpled makes it easy for your fingers. What is further worth mentioning is that it is not sealed for saltwater. However, that is not a problem because the trout is usually found in the freshwaters, such as streams and rivers.

 

Being a good trout reel, the Pflueger President is packed with a corrosion-resistant ten barring system made of stainless steel. This offers you a smooth retrieve that you rightfully deserve. What’s more? The drag can be adjusted to micro increments. This helps accentuate the reel’s precision.

 

Furthermore, this reel comes with a sure-click heavy-duty aluminum bail, which offers an audible click sound that notifies you when the bail is open and ready for casting.

 

The best thing about this reel is that regardless of the low price, it in no way has compromised on the precision, portability, or smoothness.

 

Pflueger President PRESSP30X $54.95 – $149.00

4.7

Buy Now

 

Key features

  • Ten bearing system
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Stainless steel ball bearings
  • Graphite body and rotor
  • Lightweight graphite reel construction
  • Braid ready spool
  • Sealed drag system – stays lubricated always, hence smooth
  • Slow oscillation hearing betters line lay and reduces line twist

 

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Owing to the ten ball bearing system, the drag is smooth
  • Easy retrieve switching from the left to the right hand
  • Comfortable design
  • Large line capacity
  • Powerful to handle a large fish
  • Several size options available
  • Several features focussed on longevity

 

Cons

  • Looks and feels a bit cheap
  • For maintaining a smooth drag, regular maintenance needed
  • Drag adjustment a bit inconvenient
  • Scratches easily
  • Not a very big spool
  • Bulky compared to others

 

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4. Penn Battle II Spinning Reel

We know, believe, and acknowledge that if you love fishing, you totally deserve a good trout reel, capable of handling the most extreme and punishing battles. This is precisely the reason we recommend you the best trout spinning reel, that is, the Penn Battle II Spinning Reel.

 

This reel comes packed with all the useful features that can help you handle the most intense fish fights. It is the best trout spinning reel and is designed to last you for years. Being one of the best trout reels, it will help you land big fishes every time you go fishing.

 

This is a good trout reel designed with a full metal body, including a side plate and rotor. Furthermore, the Penn Battle II Spinning Reel comes packed with five stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring a smooth cast without compromising the functionality. All of this and more make it a good trout reel.

 

Furthermore, the Penn Battle stands out because it has an anti-reverse bearing, which literally eliminates the pullback. This means that you can go on reeling without any interruption regardless of what you are combating at the end of the line.

 

Penn Battle II Spinning Reel $87.41 – $315.65

4.7

Buy Now

 

Key features

  • Durable, high range spinning reel perfect for conquering giant saltwater fish
  • Full metal body
  • Sideplate and rotor and heavy duty aluminum bail wire
  • Exceptionally durability
  • Spool has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity
  • HT 100 carbon fiber drag system
  • Powerful drag without any compromise on smoothness
  • Fluid cranking with five sealed stainless steel ball bearings and instant anti reverse bearing
  • Super line spool requires no backing
  • Spool is braid ready

 

Pros

  • Extremely Durable.
  • Smooth drag.
  • Great for flipping.
  • Ideal for medium and big fishing.
  • Great build quality with still side-plate.
  • Great metallic body and solid feel.
  • Anti-reverse.
  • Superline spool.
  • Great customer service.

 

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Not fully sealed

 

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5. Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel

Regardless of your skill level, practice, and experience, you will love this best trout fishing reel if you love fishing. The Okuma’s Ceymar Spinning Reel is known for its sleek and beautiful design engineered with an eight ball bearing drive system, which always ensures precision gearing. Furthermore, the machined and rigid aluminum spool provides a foundation of strength for both monofilament and braided fishing lines in a stunning two-tone design.

 

You will also find this good trout reel a solid pick for its RESII balancing technology within the rotor system itself. This innovative technology helps the reel stay balanced and ensures that it performs appropriately, even at top reeling speeds. Furthermore, this best trout spinning reel’s quick-set anti-reverse feature ensures that you have even the most challenging fish on the line.

 

In fact, its multi-disc oiled felt drag system ensures super-smooth action every time, even when you have a heavy-hitting fish. In this end, it is one of the best trout reels and is the perfect amalgam of strength, comfort, and style.

 

Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel $42.46

4.7

Buy Now

 

Key features

  • Multi-disc, oiled felt drag system, Max Drag Pressure – 5-lbs
  • Quick-set anti-reverse roller bearing
  • Precision machine cut brass pinion gear
  • Machined aluminium
  • Two-tone anodized spool
  • Monofilament line capacity (diameter in mm.) – 210/2 (0.12) 110/4 (0.17) 70/6 (0.22)

 

Pros

  • Speedy retrieval
  • Light but durable
  • Large line capacity
  • Good value for money
  • Versatile
  • Can be used in saltwater

 

 

Cons

  • Clicking sound
  • Drag does seem a bit stiff
  • Reel foot flexes under pressure

 

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6. Shimano Stradic CI4+

Next in line for best trout fishing reels, we have a reel from the brand that all of you may have heard of. It is indeed one of the most renowned and respected names in the industry and is always known for its quality fishing tools. This reel is a highly intuitive and the best trout spinning reel, which lets you feel the action far more closely.

 

We think this is the best trout spinning reel because it is super lightweight. This makes it easy for you to use and handle. Further, this best trout spinning reel is indeed very smooth and highly corrosion resistant. This is indeed a large bonus that lets you use the reel in a myriad of different weather conditions without any stress.

 

The only problem that we have had with this reel is that this one is a bit on the more expensive side of the spectrum compared to the other similar models. However, for the quality that you get, it is truly worth the price. Lastly, this best trout spinning reel can be your pick for its easy to use and handle design, portability, and lightweight engineering. Of course, the price is higher, but its durability and quality will make this deal worth every penny you spend.

 

Shimano Stradic CI4 $279.99 – $623.19

4.7

Buy Now

 

Key Features

  • Advanced Core protect for weather resistance
  • Retrieves 35 inches of line per crank
  • 7 ounces in weight
  • 6:1 gear ratio
  • Very lightweight body

 

Pros

  • Very smooth operation
  • Easy to handle
  • Very portable
  • Lightweight
  • Fantastic drag capacity for the price
  • Almost totally waterproof for a longer lifespan
  • Durable

 

Cons

  • Quite expensive compared to some competitors
  • The anti-reverse switch is quite small and fiddly

 

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7. KastKing Sharky III 3000 – Best Overall

Next in line for the best trout reels is the KastKing Sharky III. It is an incredibly affordable and the best trout fishing reel, which is truly worth every penny that you spend. The reel is durable and versatile. So, you can use it for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Thus, if you are after a rainbow trout or sea trout, the Sharky III is the perfect pick for you.

 

Having this best trout spinning reel in your arsenal would mean that you do not have to worry about the reel falling into the water as its protective water-resistant design covers the spool, body, and rotor. It also prevents any dirt from entering into the system.

 

The good thing about this best trout fishing reel is that it is not too heavy. Regardless, you can drag around 33 pounds with a quick line retrieve of 29.7 crank or inches. It has a gear ratio of 5:2:1. The combination makes it pretty much suitable for all kinds of fishing, such as fan-casting, jigging, and bait fishing. Another notable and like worthy thing about this reel is that its ratio between the maximum drag and weight is very impressive.

 

The reel comes engineered with a triple-disc carbon fiber drag. Further, it has an oversized stainless steel main shaft. This ensures that the cast and the reel are silky smooth. It is further amplified by the shielded stainless steel eleven ball bearing system, which is great for saltwater.

 

Furthermore, the reel’s precision mesh manganese brass pinion gear accentuates the robustness of the reel by adding muscle to it. Its anti-twist line roller reduces all chances of snarls and tangles in your line.

 

Lastly, with this best trout fishing reel, you get comfort all across the fishing session. It is possible with its high-density EVA grips, which makes it slip-resistant.

 

KastKing Sharky III 3000 $51.99

4.6

Buy Now

 

Key features

  • Tough to land trophy fish in all fishing conditions
  • Super lightweight
  • Have a high percent fiber reinforced graphite body and rotor
  • Smooth, reliable triple disc carbon fiber drag
  • Oversized stainless-steel main shaft
  • Stronger precision mesh manganese brass pinion gears for more fishing muscle
  • Sharky III spinning reels are sealed with a KISS, that is, the KastKing Intrusion Shield System
  • Unique protection water resistant design for its spool, body, and rotor
  • Super smooth
  • Quiet
  • Affordable
  • 10 + 1 high quality, saltwater rated double shielded stainless steel ball bearings
  • Instant lock anti-reverse
  • Stainless steel hardware
  • Aluminum handle
  • More line capacity than other brands

 

Pros

  • Great maximum drag to weight ratio
  • Affordable
  • One-year warranty
  • Interchangeable hand retrieve
  • Smooth operation

 

Cons

  • Bearings produce some grinding sounds
  • Some complaints about tight lines in the reel

 

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8. Daiwa BG Trout Spinning Reel

Do you want the best trout fishing reel, which is a mean, lean spinning machine? If yes, the BG Spinning Reels Series by Daiwa can be your go-to pick. Known for its compact design, it is a lightweight spinning reel, which can be bought in a variety of different models, which can cater to every fisherman’s needs. Thus, regardless of whether you seek a heavyweight reel for saltwater or an ultralight reel for freshwater, Daiwa has you covered. This best trout fishing reel is a fine mix of top-quality and innovation in this series of spinning reel designs. All of its spinning wheels feature the HardBodyz body and side cover and lightweight air design. With a waterproof drag system, the spool is a Dynamic Cut Aluminum ABS line.

 

There is absolutely no reason for you to worry about the water ruining this best trout fishing reel because it has a Carbon ATD machined aluminum screw in the handle. Thus, regardless of the size, you may be seeking, it is a top-rated reel for trout fishing and can be found in various ball bearings. All of its models have an anti-reverse system.

 

Daiwa BG Trout Spinning Reel $95.99 – $149.95

4.7

Buy Now

 

Key features

  • Dynamic cut ABS spool
  • Aluminum body
  • Digi gear System
  • Waterproof drag system
  • Machined aluminum screw-in handle
  • Silky smooth and tough reel
  • Suitable for freshwater or saltwater angler
  • Infinite dual “anti-reverse” system for 4500 and higher
  • Infinite “anti-reverse” system for 4000 and lower
  • Line capacity: 8/240, 10/200, 12/170 (pound test per yards)

 

Pros

  • Lightweight design
  • Freshwater and saltwater use
  • Superb high-quality build
  • Corrosion and rust resistant
  • Super reviews online
  • Top of the line components
  • Great operability
  • Strong and stable to use
  • Ergonomic
  • Affordable

 

Cons

  • Some durability concerns
  • Bail can be problematic

 

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9. Abu Garcia Revo 2SX10

Abu Garcia released Revo 2SX10 as a strong contender to the Shimano Stradic. It is the best trout spinning reel and comes equipped with Abu’s Insert-Molded C6 carbon body, which is much similar to the carbon or graphite blend technology of the Shimano.

 

The blends allow the reel manufacturers to lower the weight while simultaneously increasing the rigidity of the reel housing. The primary highlight of this reel is its line management system. This best trout fishing reel has a rocket spool. It means that it has a specially shaped lip on the spool, which allows the line to run off of it with less drag. When the drag is less, it means more accurate and longer casting.

 

The arbor on this best trout fishing reel is also relatively large. This results in less line memory. When the memory is less, the casting is better, and when the casting is better, it means that you will have to conduct fewer replacements.

 

Abu Garcia Revo 2SX10 $137.36 – $181.82

4.6

Buy Now

 

Features

  • 9 bearings in total
  • Carbon Matrix Hybrid drag
  • Rocket Spool, Everlast Bail System
  • Amgearing precision machined gears
  • X-Craftic gearbox
  • Gear Ratio 6.2:1

 

 

Pros

  • Durable
  • Comfortable
  • Superior bail system
  • Computer-optimized
  • Great back-play option with braid spool

 

Cons

  • Does not have spare spool
  • Lightweight makes it more prone to knotting

 

Buy Now

 

Factors To Consider When Shopping For Trout Spinning Reels

Purchasing the best trout spinning reel will seem a lot easier  after you read through our trout reels review. However, how do you decide from our listed best trout reels which is the one for you? So, here, we have come up with a list of factors that you need to bear in mind when shopping for these reels.

 

Understanding the reel weight and body

When it comes to a spinning reel, the housing or the body is made from one of the two different materials – graphite or aluminum, or a hybrid of the two. If you desire a more robust material, the best pick can be aluminum housing. It will assure better durability and relatively less flex than graphite. However, please know that it is a bit on the heavier side.

 

However, if you need a lighter rod and reel combo, or if you wish that your best trout spinning reel stays corrosion-resistant for a prolonged period, we would recommend graphite reels to you. Generally speaking, you will find that most high-end reels employ aluminum in them for freshwater. However, in the end, it is all a matter of personal preferences.

 

Spinning Reel Drag Systems

These are responsible for applying pressure to any fish you manage to hook and letting the line out during combat. Thus, the drag system is a vital factor to consider. Typically, there are two drag systems available on spinning reels. You can either opt for the front drag or the rear drag. These terms primarily refer to the drag controls’ location. However, there are fundamental differences between the two.

 

The former has multiple, large drag washers that ensure improved performance and good overall durability. However, these can be a bit tricky to adjust, especially if you are fighting a fish at the same time.

 

On the other hand, the rear-drag controls are a relatively easier option in terms of accessibility, particularly when you are targeting fish that tend to put out a lot of fights. It is because, in that case, you will have to adjust the drag on the fly.

 

Your Spools Is Key

Spool not just holds the line, but it also directly impacts your distance, casting ability, and overall smoothness. Typically, your best trout spinning reel will have its spool made of anodized aluminum or graphite. Similar to reel housing material, graphite happens to be a slightly lighter material between the two. On the other hand, aluminum tends to stay strong under pressure.

 

There is another vital consideration in the spool that you need to bear in mind, and that is the spool style. Mag spools and skirted spools are the most prevalent varieties in the best trout reels. A mag reel is an elongated spool, broader and flatter than the traditional spools. On the other hand, the skirted spools wrap the line around the bail mechanism around the reel body’s upper part. You may find that the mag spools assure a better casting, reduced line twisting, and faster retrieval speeds.

 

 

Understanding the ball bearings

Placed inside the reel body, ball bearings help ensure that the spinning reel has a stable and smooth functionality when reeling in the line. Most reels have a roller bearing in the line roller tool. So, if you seek a smooth-action spinning reel, you are going to pick the good trout reel, which holds the highest number of bearings that you can afford.

 

See, as a general rule of thumb, it is best to shop for a spinning reel with at least five ball bearings. This will offer a considerably smoother action while reeling than with any fewer.

 

 

Cost is a primary factor of consideration

Even though several hundreds of best trout reels are available in the market, the price can vary considerably depending on the quality, make, and model. You can find rods priced between the range of $100 to a bit over $500. However, deciding which reel to shop for can be a bit overwhelming. The idea is to pick something that gives you your money’s worth.

 

When you look at the trout reels review, we recommend you purchase the item, which is of the top quality, at least in your budget. Good quality reels can last you many, many seasons. It means that you do not have to replace them consistently.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here in this section, we will address a few of the most common questions that we get asked by people interested in shopping for the best trout spinning reel.

 

Ques 1: You have mentioned the list of the best trout reels. Of these, which one is the best for me?

Ans. See, the truth is that selecting the best trout spinning reel depends a lot on your personal preference. However, we always recommend the anglers opt for a lightweight reel. It is imperative if you intend to use a spinning tackle. Ideally, it would be best if you opted for the best trout fishing reel that comfortably fits in your hand and comes with an anti-reverse functionality. Further, the reel you pick should have the maximum number of ball bearings you can afford.

 

 

Ques 2. What size of the reel should I use when chasing trout?

Ans. Let us be honest with you, the trout that you pick depends mostly on the species you are after and more on your comfort level. Thus, in our trout reels review, we recommend the users to stick to the smaller reel size when the aim is the trout.

 

Also, you always pick a smaller reel size, as trout are finicky. It means that you should go with the smallest line and the lightest reel that you can find.

 

 

Ques 3. Which size hook is ideal for trout?

Ans. If you compare the trout mouths with that of the other game fish, you will understand that trout primarily have a lesser capacity to take on the book hooks.

 

In fact, when you try to determine the best hook size, we always recommend you to opt for the smaller sizes, that is usually between a size #8, #10, or #12.

 

 

Conclusion

Honestly, trout are not the easiest to catch. However, if you have read through our trout reels review and picked the right reel, you can catch trout in virtually any water body. Having said that, you should also know where you can catch the trout. So, when you do find the trout spots, you can engage in trout fishing. It is indeed one of the best ways to spend your afternoon, and of course, a delicious meal at the end of your evening.

 

Once you have found the right spot, it is time to get the rod set up for an afternoon of immense fun and entertainment. For this, you can pick the reel that best matches your needs from our trout reels review. If you are planning to fish in the sea, you should opt for the saltwater spinning reels as they need to be corrosion-resistant. Further, they will be smooth, lightweight, and tough against both fish and water environments.

 

However, do ensure that before you pick any reel mentioned in our trout reels review, you do take into account all the factors of consideration. The last thing you or anyone would want is a ruined afternoon because you just could not bring in the trout you kept hooking on the line.