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When a big fish hits, your reel is the only thing standing between you and a snapped line. You need one that keeps working while your arms burn, pulls line back fast, and lets you set the drag with confidence. This guide shows you the conventional reels that do exactly that, without the jargon.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
The conventional reel choices below span budget-friendly workhorses to premium two-speeds, each matched to a different kind of fishing fight so you can pick with confidence.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Conventional Reel
A conventional reel is the round, sturdy workhorse that sits on top of a trolling or casting rod. Unlike a spinning reel, the spool turns as the line comes off, which gives you serious cranking power but also demands some thumb control when casting. The right one for you depends on the fish you chase, the boat or shore you fish from, and how much line you need to hold.
Match the gear ratio to the job
The gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns for each full turn of the handle. A high ratio like 5.1:1 or 5.7:1 retrieves line fast, which is great for covering water while trolling or quickly reeling a bait back in. A low ratio like 2.5:1 or 3.2:1 pulls with more torque, acting almost like a winch when you need to drag a heavy fish up from deep water. Some reels offer two speeds so you get both in one unit.
Check the drag before you check anything else
Max drag is the amount of pressure the reel can apply to the line before it slips. It matters because a big fish can run hard, and if your drag is set too tight or too weak, you lose the fish or break your line. Star drag reels use a dial on the side that you adjust during the fight, while lever drag reels use a lever that gives you a wider, smoother range of control. For heavy saltwater targets like tuna or shark, a higher max drag number is non-negotiable.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Gear Ratio | Max Drag | Line Retrieve | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Squall II 2-Speed★ Best Overall | Big game saltwater | 4.5:1 / 2.1:1 | 9.07 kg | — | Amazon |
| Okuma Classic LevelwindBest Value | Salmon & catfish trolling | 3.8:1 | 17 lb | 24 in | Amazon |
| Shakespeare ATS Size 20Line Counter Pick | Planer board trolling | 5.1:1 | 6.8 kg | 26 in | Amazon |
| Penn Jigmaster | Bottom fishing & casting | 4:1 | 13.61 kg | — | Amazon |
| Okuma Cold Water Linecounter | Precise deep trolling | 5.1:1 | 20 lb | 23 in | Amazon |
| Shimano TLD Multiplier | Down rigger & reef trolling | 3.6:1 | 22 lb | 30 in | Amazon |
| Shimano SpeedMaster 2-Speed | Versatile saltwater anglers | 5.7:1 / 3.1:1 | 40 lb | 42 in | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 600+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
A two-speed lever drag that turns into a winch when a big fish decides it wants the deep water.
When you are targeting wahoo, tuna, or sharks, you need a reel that can switch gears mid-fight. The Squall II gives you a high gear of 4.5:1 to burn line back fast, then drops to a low gear of 2.1:1 that acts like a winch for the heavy pulling. Buyers report landing 5-6ft sharks from land-based rigs with 750yds of 150lb braid, and one described it as capable up to 10-11ft with the right rod.
What wins people over is the performance under load. The Dura-Drag system is built to virtually eliminate snags and hesitation even at extreme drag settings, and the double dog ratchet system stops the handle from reversing when a fish surges. The graphite frame and sideplates keep it lightweight, but owners mention the smooth lever system feels more refined than the older Penn Senators they used before.
At a max drag of 9.07 kg, it out-pulls the Shakespeare ATS’s 6.8 kg rating by a clear margin, giving you more stopping power for heavier saltwater targets. The 4 stainless steel bearings keep everything turning smoothly, and the braid capacity is substantial — 1040 yards of 50lb line gives you real room to run.
Why it earns the top spot
- Two speeds let you cover water fast and then winch hard
- Smooth lever drag system buyers praise for big game
- Substantial line capacity for long-running fish
Trade-offs to know
- Spooling with braid can cost nearly as much as the reel itself
- Durability feedback is mixed, so treat it as a tool, not a trophy
Who it’s for: Saltwater anglers chasing big game who need a smooth, powerful lever drag with the luxury of two speeds.
The honest catch: The price of braid filling the spool can sting, and a few owners want sturdier long-term durability.
2. Okuma Classic Levelwind Star Drag
A corrosion-resistant round reel that has been pulling fish for years without a hiccup.
This Okuma is the kind of reel that quietly builds a loyal following. The corrosion-resistant frame and side plates, paired with corrosion-resistant graphite spools, make it a real option for saltwater, and the stainless steel reel foot keeps it anchored to your rod. One owner reported no issues after two seasons in saltwater, which is a strong vote of confidence at this price level.
The 3.8:1 gear ratio with a 24-inch retrieve rate is a happy medium — not frantic, not sluggish. With a max drag of 17 pounds, it has the muscle for serious trolling. Customers note hauling in two 20 lb catfish and numerous 5+ lb rockfish within a single month, and one called it a fantastic big fish casting reel. The aluminum power handle gives you a solid grip for cranking.
This reel fills your hand and feels substantial on the rod, thanks to its 8″L x 5″W x 5″H frame — bigger than the Shakespeare ATS. Casting is smooth, though reviewers point out it isn’t as slick as an Abu Garcia C3. For boat or bank fishing away from thick cover, it does the job beautifully.
What owners love: The build quality stands out, with buyers calling it a high-quality reel at a price that feels too low for what you get.
Where it flexes: Salmon trolling and catfishing — the drag is predictable and the corrosion resistance handles the spray.
Reach for this if: You want a durable, budget-friendly workhorse that handles saltwater spray and heavy fish without complaint.
Look elsewhere if: You do most of your casting into tight, tree-lined cover where a slicker casting reel makes life easier.
3. Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Reel
A line counter trolling reel that takes the guesswork out of depth control.
If you troll with planer boards, you know the struggle of keeping multiple lines at the right depth. This Shakespeare takes that pain away with a built-in line counter, so you know exactly how much line you have out. Shoppers say it works great as a planer board reel, and one already caught several walleyes on it right away, praising the smooth drag.
At 5.1:1, it has the fastest gear ratio of the mid-range picks here, and it recovers 26 inches of line per crank turn. That compares directly to the Penn General Purpose’s 19 inches — a 37% jump in retrieve speed, meaning you bring bait back to the boat noticeably quicker. The multi-disc drag system delivers a consistent max drag of 6.8 kg to tire out fish without sudden slips.
The graphite body keeps it lightweight, and the stainless steel level wind system with 2 ball bearings makes casting easy. It is a genuine value pick at a fair price, but it is built for freshwater applications, so leave it off the saltwater boat. One reviewer noted it doesn’t come with any documentation — expect to figure out the parts yourself.
Its defining trait: The line counter at this price point is the standout feature, making precise trolling depth control accessible to everyone.
Keep in mind: This is a freshwater reel only, so if you fish saltwater, skip this one and check the other picks in this guide.
Best for: Freshwater trollers running planer boards who want repeatable depth control without spending a fortune.
Skip if: You need a reel that can handle saltwater corrosion over time.
4. Penn General Purpose Level Wind
A quick-take-apart classic that has been winning saltwater fights for generations.
Some reels are tools. The Jigmaster is an institution. The quick take-apart feature lets you change spools and line classes while you are still on the water, which is a huge flexibility advantage when conditions change. The machined aluminum spool and bakelite sideplates are built for longevity, and the high-strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear has a reputation for surviving decades of abuse.
The 4:1 gear ratio is a comfortable all-rounder, and the HT-100 carbon fiber drag system delivers powerful resistance without sacrificing smoothness. Owners mention it survived 3-hour bluefish surf casting sessions without issue, and one noted their father-in-law’s 1980s model still works perfectly today.
It has no level wind, which some anglers actually prefer for reliability — fewer moving parts, fewer things to break. The loud clicker is a tactile bonus. It is ideal for Cobia, Stripers, King Mackerel, and small Tuna. Just keep in mind that some customers note durability hiccups, with one reel breaking on the third outing — so while it’s a classic, treat each unit as an individual.
What makes it special
- Quick take-apart frame for on-the-water spool changes
- High max drag of 13.61 kg for heavy saltwater
- Parts and kits available to keep it running for decades
What to watch
- Durability feedback is mixed, with an occasional early failure
- No level wind, so you manage the line by hand
Reach for this if: You fish bottom structure for cod, blackfish, snapper, or grouper and want a reel you can service at any tackle shop.
Look elsewhere if: You want the convenience of a self-leveling line lay without thought.
5. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter
A line counter reel built for precision trolling where knowing your depth is everything.
When trolling for lake trout, salmon, or walleye, hitting the exact right depth often decides a hookup versus a miss. The Cold Water’s mechanical line counter measures in feet, and the anti-fogging CVT (Clear View Technology) keeps that counter readable even in cold, wet air. Reviewers point out the counter is precise and well-placed compared to other brands.
At just 14.6 ounces, it is light enough for a long day on the water, yet the oversized machine-cut brass XL drive gears give it serious cranking power. The multi-disc Carbonite drag system puts out up to 20 pounds of fish-stopping drag, and the aluminum ratcheting drag star lets you dial in precise settings. The 5.1:1 gear ratio recovers 23 inches of line per turn, a solid pace for covering water.
Buyers are emphatic about the value here — one owner runs six of these reels, catches hundreds of fish a year, and reports zero problems after two years of heavy fishing. The Ergo grip handle knob is comfortable for long cranking sessions. Some shoppers say the drag mechanism can have issues, so it’s worth testing your drag before a big trip.
Why it stands out: The precision line counter combined with a lightweight, powerful frame at a mid-range price is a rare combination.
A note on durability: Most buyers report years of flawless service, but a minority flag drag function issues.
Best for: Anglers who troll big lakes and need repeatable depth control with a reel that won’t wear out your arm.
Think twice if: You need brute-force winching power for giant fish, because its strength is finesse, not raw torque.
6. Shimano TLD Multiplier Reel
A lever drag reel with buttery gears that excels on down riggers and reef lines.
Shimano’s TLD has a loyal following for good reason: the gears are simply smooth. Customers note it works great on down riggers, and one owner rigged theirs with a PENN Rampage rod, spooled up with 50lb 8-strand braid, ready for serious reef fishing in Florida waters. The 3.6:1 gear ratio with a 30-inch retrieve rate is a confident middle ground.
The lever drag system is a major plus — reviewers point out it feels superior to star drag setups, and at 22 pounds of max drag, it has real stopping power. The one-piece graphite body keeps it lightweight and resists corrosion, while the stainless steel drive gear, pinion gear, and main shaft are built for the long haul. The aluminum power handle with oil-ported torpedo knob gives you a comfortable, solid grip during long fights.
Reliability is the theme across owner feedback. Shoppers say these reels work like new after years of service with no maintenance beyond rinsing off the saltwater. One owner noted it handles large fish smoothly and is durable enough for serious saltwater use. It won’t land the very biggest sharks like the Senator will, but for reef fishing, halibut, and down rigger trolling, it is an absolute sweetheart.
The stand-out trait: Smoothness — owners consistently describe the gears as silky, even after years of hard use.
Value read: Priced as a premium buy, but buyers report it is worth the extra spend for the quality and reliability.
Reach for this if: You fish down riggers, reefs, or target halibut and want a smooth, reliable lever drag that rinses off and keeps working.
Look elsewhere if: You need extreme line capacity for giant pelagics — the Senator holds far more braid.
7. Shimano SpeedMaster 2 Speed Lever Drag
A compact two-speed that punches far above its size, especially for smaller-framed anglers.
Here’s the surprise of the group: this compact reel has the highest max drag in the entire guide at 40 pounds. That is nearly double the Penn Senator’s 10.8 kg, all packed into a body that owners mention feels ideal for women and children while still being strong enough to handle big snapper, grouper, and sharks. One owner’s first fish with it was a 25 lb grouper, and the low gear pulled it up with ease.
The two gear ratios — 5.7:1 high and 3.1:1 low — give you the best of both worlds. High gear retrieves a class-leading 42 inches of line per crank, and the low gear brings serious winching power. Customers note the gear switch speeds retrieval from over 100 feet down, and it outperforms larger Penn reels without strain. The 4 bearings keep everything running smoothly.
At 25.7 oz, it is light enough for long sessions, and the aluminum handle feels solid in hand. It holds 580 yards of 50lb PowerPro braid or 250 yards of 20lb mono, which covers most saltwater applications. Buyers describe it as well built with the smooth feel of the more expensive Talica reel, making it a smart choice for those wanting quality at a more reasonable outlay.
Its superpower: The 40 lb max drag in a compact, lightweight frame is genuinely remarkable for this class of reel.
Who it serves: Smaller-framed anglers and anyone who wants premium two-speed performance without the bulk.
Best for: Saltwater anglers who want a powerful two-speed that’s comfortable for extended use, including women and older anglers.
Think twice if: You need the massive line capacity of a dedicated big-game reel like the Senator.
Understanding the Specs
Gear Ratio and Retrieve Rate
Gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns for each full turn of the handle. A higher ratio like 5.1:1 or 5.7:1 retrieves line fast, which helps when you need to cover water while trolling or quickly reel in a bait. A lower ratio like 2.5:1 or 3.2:1 produces more torque, making it easier to winch heavy fish up from depth. The retrieve rate, measured in inches per crank, works alongside the ratio — a 42-inch retrieve moves line twice as fast as a 19-inch retrieve, and that difference becomes obvious when a fish is running.
Max Drag
Max drag is the pressure the reel can apply to the line before it slips, measured in pounds or kilograms — it tells you whether the reel can stop a big fish. Star drag reels use an adjustable dial to change pressure during the fight, while lever drag reels use a lever for a wide, smooth range of control. For heavy saltwater targets like tuna or shark, look for a higher max drag rating: the difference between a 20 lb drag and a 40 lb drag is the difference between controlling a fish and being controlled by it.
FAQ
What is the difference between star drag and lever drag reels?
What gear ratio is best for trolling?
How much line capacity do I need in a conventional reel?
What does a line counter do on a trolling reel?
Can I use a conventional reel for casting?
What is the difference between a conventional reel and a spinning reel?
How do I choose the right reel size for my rod?
Which conventional reel is best for saltwater fishing?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most anglers chasing serious saltwater game, the best conventional reel winner is the Penn Squall II 2-Speed because its smooth lever drag and dual-gear versatility handle everything from wahoo trolling to land-based shark battles. If you want precision depth control for freshwater trolling, grab the Okuma Cold Water with its precise line counter. And for the angler who needs maximum pulling power in a compact frame, the Shimano SpeedMaster and its 40 lb drag is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, The Tools Trunk earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.