Best Electric Reels for Deep Dropping [2023 Buying Guide]

Best Electric Reels for Deep Dropping [2023 Buying Guide]

Fishing is considered as one of the most adventurous sports. It can be relaxing as an activity and, at the same time, gives you the opportunity to observe and bond with nature better. Many people use this activity as a means to escape the chaos of their regular days. Fishing gives not only the seeker peace of mind but also the thrill that is required for someone to feel alive. Moreover, getting hold of a big catch certainly makes the catcher more confident towards everything they do.

As fun it might seem on the surface, fishing is equally a tough sport for one to participate when it comes to deep drop fishing. On the one hand, while it can be relaxing, on the other hand, it can be a tiring task too. It tests your patience and skills, as well. Further, if you are unequipped with necessary gears, it can be a real pain.

To overcome the frustration, you are required that you are well versed with the crucial knowledge about fishing and also have yourself equipped with requirements. While traditional, manually operated fishing reels are good for adventure, those who prefer the electric fishing reels are always at an advantage.

The real need for electric equipment is realized when you are fed up waiting and begin to think fishing as a tiring and tedious task. When you have to catch a heavy fish manually and replace the bait multiple times at greater depths, it would only make you bored and uninterested in the game. You would wish, if only you had an electric fishing reel, the story would have been something else. The electric gears not only make your task easy and fast but also save you from the frustration of waiting and questioning your fishing abilities.

Benefits of using Electric Fishing Reels

Electric fishing reels are a boon to, especially deep drop fishing lovers. They make the fishing more tolerant and more fun to do a task with their exceptional features. Their ability to withdraw the overall load of the fishermen is what the fishermen like the most. Well equipped with different kinds of detectors, displays, indicators, and sensors make their use for fishing a piece of cake. These features aid in the precision of aiming and, at the same time monitoring your line towards the fish.

They help the fishermen lift big catches from deep under the sea effortlessly. The feature to modify its settings to suit bottom fishing from deep drop fishing only adds to its features. We shall now see what an electric fishing reel is in brief.

Electric Fishing Reel

An electric fishing reel is not much different from the baitcasting reels. It has the same components, such as handle, spool, bearings, gears, plus a few extra features. These additional features are what make these fishing reels unique. Extra features may include but are not limited to the convenient LCD to monitor your actions with precision, a secondary power cord that helps you power the reel when you run out of battery, Easy operation buttons that help you set the desired length of the line and also the speed of retrieval.

But, with a lot of features come to a lot of confusion. While looking for an electric fishing reel, it might seem a rather more confusing task than not, if you don’t exactly know what you are looking for. To help you out of the fuss, we have taken time to research the crucial features and accordingly narrowed down a list of the best electric fishing reels available in the market.


Top Electric Reels for Deep Dropping [Review]

There are only a few manufacturers of electric fishing reels and fewer good ones. Considering their experience in the field, reliability, access, and reputation, we have noted down some of their best products. While these are a few of the best ones, other brands are always good but do not have such easy accessibility.

Daiwa Seaborg 1000MT Big Game Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B001HZ0XAO&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B001HZ0XAO

Daiwa is a people’s choice. This seems to be one of the most popular electric fishing reels, with better average customer reviews. Its excellent quality, great intensity, and it being super lightweight are what people praise about. Anglers of the lakes fishing on its copper line are really fond of it. The maximum drag this fishing reel can extend is of 44 pounds, quite enough to get hold of a giant fish. Its gear ratio of 2.4:1 provides excellent torque and smooth retrieval speed. 

Its adjustable simultaneous dual-speed control lets you handle the fish with much ease. The gear shift button makes its line retrieval speed up to 656 feet per minute. Depending on the availability of braid, it can cover up to a minimum of 480 yards and maximum up to 880 yards of line.

The amount line shown on the LCD screen helps the fisherman to estimate depths with accuracy. The features that make it on top of the list are its automatic shut-down function, which is activated just when the lever touches the surface. This electric fishing reel also offers the fisherman to operate it manually if it runs out of battery in the middle of his adventure.

Characteristic Features:

  • The maximum drag of 44 pounds
  • 2.4:1 gear ratio
  • Simultaneous dual speed control
  • LCD Screen monitor
  • Auto shut-down function
  • Manual operation feature

Pros:

  • Simultaneous dual speed control
  • Auto shut-down function
  • Manual operation feature
  • Retrieval speed up to 656 feet per minute
  • Instructions in English

Cons:

  • Low Gear Ratio
  • Insufficient installation guide
  • No protective case

Final Verdict

Its brilliant features have no doubt made it a people’s favorite. Along with it, the years of experience in the making, keep Daiwa at an advantage over other brands in terms of quality, durability, and excellent intensity. This Electric fishing reel undoubtedly surpasses other fishing reels with its unique features. Also, not much fishing reels have instructions and LCD in English, so if you are not looking for any language trouble, you should surely go for it. 


Shimano BM9000 Beast Master Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00M9IEV4W&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00M9IEV4W

The Shimano BM9000 Beast Master Electric Fishing Reel leaves every other product behind when it comes to good looks. Not only that, but this reel is also called a “Beast Master” for a good reason. We shall reveal that soon. But, first, let us have a look at its overall features.  

Its capacity for holding the line is around 940 yards, with the braid weighing about 100 pounds. It allows the user to reduce the braided line for optimum throughput. The LCD screen embedded in this reel gives information about the depth of line underwater while the multifunction buttons let you control the reel with ease. It gets the primary power input to form a 12 volt battery. Nevertheless, an extra power cord can also be used as secondary power input in case the battery gets discharged midway. Shimano also makes sure that its products are airtight and waterproof. Now you don’t have to worry about a short circuit, that’s one benefit for sure.

It features a silky-smooth drag that can reach an upper limit of 55 pounds. This feature can get even the strongest of fish exhausted in no time. The winding force has a maximum magnitude of 250 pounds, aided by the gear ratio of 3:1. It being able to tame such large fishes is what makes it the suitable “beast Master.” 

Characteristic Features:

  • Line holding capacity of 940 yards
  • LCD screen monitor
  • Outer protective casing
  • The drag of limit 55 pounds
  • The gear ratio of 3:1

Pros:

  • Powerful engine
  • Waterproof and airtight
  • It can tame huge fishes

Cons:

  • Instructions and displays are in the Japanese language

Final Verdict

This is undoubtedly the go-to reel for anyone heading out in search of a large fish. This “Beast Master” is a much suitable companion for a fisherman on such adventures. If you are fine with the Japanese language as instructions as well as on the interface, you should surely go for it. 


BANAX KAIGEN 7000CP Electric Fishing Reel Big Game Jigging

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B079RY89SY&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B079RY89SY

This underrated reel often gets unnoticed from the eyes of inexperienced fishers. Because of its lower price, it is often misunderstood for a low-quality product. But, the truth is something else. These Korean manufacturers wanted to make an outstanding piece at such a low price.

The maximum drag of Banax Kaigen 7000CP reaches up to 65 pounds. This drag limit lets you get a hold of much heavier fishes. The reel possesses a single release rate of 12 feet per second, but the grip enables you to have complete control over the actions of this reel. The gear ratio of 3.5:1 works fine during high-speed motions, but one should not have their hopes very high.

The polished motor is good for you in terms of cost, but that also means it has a shorter life span for the engine. Nevertheless, despite the lightweight aluminum body, the engine doesn’t compromise in its power. Although the line only is of 320 yards length and a load of 80 pounds, it has the jigging function that is very rare in low budget reels. By lowering the weight to 60 feet, you can achieve a depth of 425 yards.

Characteristic Features:

  • 65 pounds drag
  • The release rate of 121 feet per second
  • A gear ratio of 3.5:1
  • Jigging Function

Pros:

  • Low-budget option
  • Lightweight aluminum body
  • Great retrieval speed
  • Washable design

Cons:

  • Short engine lifespan

Final Verdict

This electric fishing reel surely impersonates many high-budget reels within this price range. So if you want to enjoy features nearly equal to the expensive options at a lower cost, you must keep the Banax Kaigen 7000CP on your mind for sure.


Shimano Tiagra TI30WLRSA Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00080XE46&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00080XE46

This fishing reel is most suitable for the shallow-deep drop. Not only that but also, this fishing reel allows the fisherman to enjoy kite fishing too. Its super-speed motor operates super smoothly inside the saltwater.  

Its features include a single machine frame of aluminum with the spool made up of the same material. 4 RB ball bearings give you quite a convenient line release and retrieval. Its double speed gears with ratio 3.9:1 make its functions even smoother. The drag system consists of twin-disk technology to allow variable speed control. The elastomeric grip doesn’t allow the handle to slip off your hand into the fish’s capture. 

Characteristic Features:

  • 4 RB Ball bearings
  • Aluminum frame and spool
  • Elastomeric grip for perfect handling
  • Dual-speed gear
  • Double-disk drag

Pros:

  • Extra tight option for drag setting
  • Anti-slip grip
  • Ergonomically designed power handle
  • Variable speed command
  • Durable aluminum body
  • Two years of product warranty

Cons:

  • Only four ball bearings
  • Hand retrieval is non-configurable

Final Verdict

The fact that it allows the user to control line speed and also gives full command over the change in gear speed is quite commendable. The versatility of controls, aluminum build, and easy operation make its place to our list of the best.


Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel Lightweight – Smartlife 12 Ball Bearings Adjustable High Speed Gear Ratio Fishing Reel Freshwater with Depth Counter

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B06XT64BPZ&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B06XT64BPZ

Although the name of this product specifies its use for saltwater fishing, it isn’t limited to the same. Smartlife Saltwater Electric Spinning reel can be used in salt water as well as freshwater. Its unique feature is that it consists of 12 ball bearings of stainless steel that smoothes its operation. 

The anti-reverse feature saves your line from detaching midway with its ability to lock the line. The spool is made up of aluminum, and the overall body is lightweight with great durability. The line counter fitted with it gives you regular information about the depth of the line.

Characteristic Features:

  • The main shaft of stainless steel
  • Line counter
  • CNC aluminum spool
  • 12 stainless steel ball bearings
  • Brake system
  • Anti-reverse bearing
  • Fine-tune button

Pros:

  • 12 stainless steel ball bearings for super smooth functioning
  • Multi-compatibility, with both freshwater and saltwater
  • Ultra-light and durable
  • Sturdy aluminum spool
  • Lock line feature with the anti-reverse system

Cons:

  • Line counter may be gear driven and not fully electronic

Final Verdict

With 12 stainless steel ball bearings, you should be able to imagine how smooth this reel might be functioning. Also, the additional single ball bearing that locks the line in place is a perfect complement to it. The depth counter also helps the fisherman greatly. Finally, it being multipurpose is something of great advantage. If these features satisfy your needs, you must indeed go for it.


Shimano Force Master 9000

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B008AQIA8K&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B008AQIA8K

The three-roller bearings smoothen its functioning along with the gear with ratio 3.1:1. The LCD screen displays the speed of release and retrieval of the line from the spool. With its winding speed being 135 meters per minute lets you change your bait whenever you like to. The nylon spool ensures extra strength. It can be powered with both 12 volts and 14-volt power sources. 

Characteristic Features:

  • Three roller bearings
  • Nylon spool
  • Maximum winding speed of 135 meters per minute
  • LCD speed display
  • Power of spool hoisting is up to 72kg

Pros:

  • Anti-heat system
  • Auto shut down feature
  • Top hoisting speed of 135 meters per minute
  • Hoisting capacity up to 72kg

Cons:

  • Instructions are in the Japanese language
  • Not so convenient customer service

Final Verdict

The digital display shows slow winding speed, which is a crucial data for auto winding because the auto winding mode enhances accuracy. Its memory storage lets you save your preferred configuration from being used further when in need. This high-quality reel lacks nowhere in feature, but make sure to choose a seller who hands you an English manual. 


Daiwa Tanacom 1000 Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00H1PF1ZQ&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00H1PF1ZQ

This reel indeed is handsome for its dark exterior with attractive LCD. It features right-hand retrieval. Due to an oversized line guide, knots and tangles in the line can be monitored. The auto-stop feature and jigging make it better than the traditional reels.

Characteristic Features:

  • Powerful lever
  • Manual winding option
  • LCD screen
  • Sealed drag system

Pros:

  • Holds 800yards of 80 braids
  • Washable design
  • Right-hand retrieval
  • Auto-stop and jigging

Cons:

  • Difficult to setup

Final Verdict

The speed control feature is outstanding. The option to change the power setting also comes very handily when the right speed and the perfect setting are found. This product is an excellent choice for deep dropping.


Shimano Beast Master 9000

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00I977U04&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00I977U04

This impressive fishing reel by Shimano is another example of why Shimano is brilliant in its work. The anti-heating system saves it from extreme weathers of heat and cold. It is lightweight and brilliantly designed and hence allows you to use it with any rod of choice.

Characteristic Features:

  • Gigamax motor
  • 55-pound maximum drag
  • Heat free system
  • Adaptive Japanese Technology

Pros:

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Includes adapter lead
  • 12 volt and 14-volt battery compatibility

Cons:

  • Not so easily programmable

Final Verdict

If you are headed towards an intense fishing experience as in saltwater or deep-sea condition, this should be your preferred choice. Its durability makes it stand even an extremely rigorous fishing experience.


BANAX Kaigen 150 Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07D2BBPNR&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07D2BBPNR

This lightweight, compact, and easy to use reel comes with the option for spool changeability. The product has an extra spool included. 11 ball bearing systems maintain its super-smooth operation with a maximum motor speed of 150 meters per minute. 

Characteristic Features:

  • Power drag up to 12 kg
  • Fast-flipping lever
  • 11 ball bearings
  • Changeable spool

Pros:

  • Good for jigging
  • Smooth operation with 11 ball bearings
  • Includes additional spool

Cons:

  • Line capacity is difficult to determine

Final Verdict

It is a user-friendly reel. The power drag of 261 pounds is aided with an aluminum body, which makes it anti-rust. The handle feels much comfortable with rubber knobs.


Shimano Tiagra Electric Fishing Reel

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00080XE5K&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=catchandfillet 20&language=en USir?t=catchandfillet 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00080XE5K

This reel ensures its optimum function with its non-detachable motor. The six stainless steel bearings and gear with ratio 3.9:1 gives it the smoothness it requires. With alternative low and high retrieval features, it is designed for deep drop fishing. 

Characteristic Features:

  • Dual speed gear with ratio 3.9:1
  • Right-handed retrieval
  • Line capacity of 700 yards with a 30-pound weight

Pros:

  • Variable speed control
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Brushless, non-detachable motor

Cons:

  • Challenging to assemble the setup

Final Verdict

This reel is known for its power capacity and thus is suitable for long-duration fishing.


Why chose an electric fishing reel?

Well, the feature of it being electric speaks volumes about it being a preferable choice among other kinds of fishing reels. Being electric means, it eases the use in general. Also, it takes the load upon it to retain the fisherman’s strength, and this allows longer fishing time for the fisherman without exhaustion. Moreover, no matter how complex it is in design, an electric fishing reel is easy to use with the help of multifunction control buttons as well as a highly informative LCD screen.

Adding to their advantage is the powerful drag system that is certainly more than the conventional fishing reels, even twice or thrice the power for some. The ability to regulate the line and have full control over it for release and retrieval helps the fisherman make it adapt to his requirements.

Usage for electric fishing reels

The versatility of electric fishing reels makes them suitable for multiple usages. Their depth of use can be ranged from over 300 feet to 3000 feet depending on the location of fishing. The deep drop feature helps the fisherman catch even rarely found fishes that dwell very deep under the sea. Electric fishing reels are used for the troll, deep drop, and various other casting methods. 

Troll Fishing

Particularly fast and robust, fishes like the swordfish and the Sailboat fish are capable of draining the strength of even the strongest of anglers with a traditional reel in his hands. Here, electric reels come in handy by adding to the power of the fisherman and taking most of the load off him. Using an electric reel doesn’t make the whole process a piece of cake for sure, but it helps to put less effort.

Deep Drop Fishing

The electric fishing reels allow the fisherman to catch fishes from too remote places. This particular advantage is generally not available in conventional counterparts. Also, the fight with the fishes dwelling in lower parts of the sea can be a drag with the traditional fishing reels, whereas electric reels are greatly capable of handling this process effortlessly. It even allows the user to rest the fishing rod for the time being while it does its job.


2020 Buying Guide for Electric Fishing Reels

There are a lot of factors that influence the choice of a customer while buying an electric fishing reel, just like it does with the spinning, fly, and baitcasting reels.

In this buying guide, the factor that would escort our opinions is the feature of deep dropping. We have chosen this topic as it is the one challenge that electric fishing reels face the most. Also, having solved the problem of deep drop fishing, the rest will fall into place eventually.

Power of the Drag

Having an excellent drag power is a vital factor for a fishing reel. Proper adjustments in the drag is also a crucial parameter while deep drop fishing. If the drag is too tight, your chances of getting a fish are low; the same goes with a loose drag too. Therefore, the utmost focus is required while adjusting drag settings and setting mean comfortable values. Depending on the preference, the drag should be set within the range of 40 pounds to 80 pounds. 

Speed of retrieval

Speed of retrieval indicates the rate with which the reel receives the line. Most of the electric reels have a faster retrieval rate than other kinds of reels. Often you need to get the line quickly, either to receive the kite or to replace the bait. In these situations, a faster retrieval rate comes in handy.

Having sufficient torque is equally necessary. Its necessity is realized while scuffling with more giant beasts. Mostly the fight would affect the rod, but getting rid of any labor from the reel is beneficial. Moreover, as many fishermen are usually maneuvering heavy pieces of equipment, a torque that is able to draw a line from about 750 feet of depth is a must; otherwise you would have to start turning the handle. 

Therefore, power and speed are the topmost priorities to look for in an electric fishing reel.

Gears

Low-budget reels do not often possess more than single gear, and thus the retrieval speed is not so fast. To achieve a sturdier control over the reel, greater reel speed is beneficial.  

Speed adjustments are often mistaken for gears. While speed adjustment works well when the fisherman wants to gain more torque, the models with gear options of high and low can efficiently make it happen. Therefore, gears with adjustable low and high options are preferred.

Power Source and the Power of Engine

Mostly 12-volt batteries are preferred power sources for the electric reels, but depending on the size and capacity of the reel, 24 volt battery is also used as a power source. Alternatively, electric reels are also provided with options to get power from an external battery or the engine of the boat through a power cord. This is the reason, the fishermen who use electric fishing reels usually carry extra battery and clamps in case of primary power failure. Better safe than sorry. The fisherman should always check for power availability before heading out fishing. 

Line Capacity

Often fishermen carry braided lines for deep dropping, which is also required in sufficient quantity. Apart from the choice of reel, you would need more lines for the cast. The weight of the heaviest braided line is 200 pounds whereas, the lightest braided line of 900 feet weighs 80-100 pounds. 

The length and the weight depend upon the kind of fish you are looking for as well as the location of fishing. Therefore one must keep the line weight and length of the reel according to the need for a particular adventure.

Line Counter

It is comparatively easier to calculate the depth while fishing on lakes or rivers than the sea. When the line crosses below 500-600 feet, the human eye finds it difficult to monitor the depth. This problem can be countered with a line counter.

It is also crucial to determine the distance between the fish and the surface of the water. This is useful, particularly when you are exhausted from fighting the fish over a long battle. When you have lost all your strength, and you see the distance to cover further is only about a few inches, it pushes you to fight harder with the predator.

A depth memory, when added to the depth counter, helps the reel remember the previous position of the line so that it can align itself to that position with just one click of the button. Few reels that are equipped with jigging mode can reposition the bait. Usually, it doesn’t move the bait that has exceeded the depth of 500 feet, but it is good to give it a try. 

Conclusion

Electric fishing reels are always preferred over the conventional ones. If it is the case of cost, electric spinning reels cost nearly the same as good quality conventional ones, only with better features. Also, it isn’t mandatory to fill the electric reels with all the accessories, but having the necessary ones geared up will only be of advantage.

Moreover, these reels swing both ways. When out of power, you may always adjust them to use as the conventional ones manually. It is also an unarguable fact that traditional fishing reels are no match for electric ones when it comes to deep drop fishing. What’s more is, good quality electric fishing reels don’t also require much maintenance. That’s a relief for sure. 

For beginners, the advice is to choose a low budget electric reel first, and after having your hand, set on its functions and controls, you can go for expensive ones with better features. That should only be done with all the considerations in mind.

More To Explore