Fishing for striped bass, also known as stripers, is a popular and exciting activity anglers enjoy in various coastal and freshwater regions. Striped bass are known for their powerful fights and can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, making them accessible to a wide range of fishermen.
The importance of fishing gear when fishing for striped bass cannot be overstated. The right fishing gear can significantly impact your success in catching these powerful and elusive fish.
Having appropriate gear, such as medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting rods and reels with strong drag systems, ensures that you can handle the power of these fish and increase your chances of landing them successfully.
In this guide, we take you through our list of the 7 best fishing reels for striped bass to win the striper-fishing game.
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- Smooth and consistent retrieve
- The reel's line capacity allows to target larger striped bass
- Casting and line management is effortless
- Allows to cast with precision and control
- The extended bent handle and power knob provide extra power and comfortable handling
- Suitable for other saltwater species as well
- Built-in line counter
- The ratcheting star drag system offers precision drag adjustments
- Good value for the features and performance it provides
Our Top 7 Picks
1. PENN Battle III 4000 Spinning Fishing Reel
- Durable graphite frame and side plates
- HT-100 drag system
- Level wind system
- Line capacity rings
- Multi-position power handle
- 6.0:1 gear ratio, 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball
Product Overview
The PENN Battle III 4000 offers a good balance of line capacity, drag power, and weight for targeting popular gamefish such as striped bass.
The reel has a full metal body and side plate construction, providing durability and increased rigidity to handle the challenges of saltwater fishing.
The reel features precision CNC gear technology, ensuring smooth and precise gear alignment for seamless power transmission during retrieves and fights.
The HT-100 carbon fiber drag system delivers strong and smooth drag performance. The drag system is sealed, protecting the reel’s internal components from water, sand, and debris.
The bail wire is made of heavy-duty aluminum, ensuring reliable line management and consistent bail operation.
The reel features 5 stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 instant anti-reverse bearing.
Product Features
- CNC gear technology
- HT-100 carbon fiber drag system
- Superline spool with line capacity ring
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
- 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings, 6.2:1 gear ratio
Pros
- Smooth and consistent retrieve, thanks to the precision CNC gear technology and high-quality ball bearings
- The reel’s line capacity, especially with braided lines, allows users to target larger striped bass without worrying about running out of line
- The heavy-duty aluminum bail wire and smooth bail operation make casting and line management effortless
Cons
- Sometimes there are issues with line management, such as line twist or line getting caught on the spool lip
2. Abu Garcia C3 Striper Special Round Reel – 6500 Striper Special
- Duragear brass gearing
- Synchronized level wind
- Carbon matrix drag system
- Extended bent handle and power knob
- 6-Pin centrifugal brake system
- 5.3:1 gear ratio and 3 + 1 ball bearings
Product Overview
The Abu Garcia C3 Striper Special Round Reel – 6500 Striper Special is a baitcasting reel specifically designed for targeting striped bass (stripers) and other large saltwater species.
The reel is designed with features and materials that resist corrosion and maintain performance over time.
The reel comes with a Carbon Matrix drag system and the Abu Garcia MagTrax brake system, which helps control the spool during casting and reduce the risk of backlash.
The 6-pin centrifugal brake system is a valuable feature that helps anglers control the casting distance and manage the spool’s rotation during the cast. It allows for adjustments to the brake settings, helping to prevent backlash and ensuring smooth, accurate casting.
The extended bent handle with a power knob is another crucial feature, especially when targeting hard-fighting fish like striped bass. The longer handle provides increased leverage, making it easier to reel in big fish and apply more pressure during the fight.
The reel has a gear ratio of 5.3:1 and 3 + 1 ball bearings.
Product Features
- Duragear brass gearing
- Synchronized level wind
- Carbon matrix drag system
- Extended bent handle and power knob
- 6-Pin centrifugal brake system
- 5.3:1 gear ratio and 3 + 1 ball bearings
Pros
- Allows to cast with precision and control
- The extended bent handle and power knob are appreciated for providing extra power and comfortable handling
- Suitable not only for striped bass fishing but also for other saltwater species
Cons
- Some users have experienced issues with the thumb bar not fully engaging or disengaging smoothly
- Some users have noted that the line capacity markings on the spool may not always align perfectly with the actual line capacity
3. Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel (CW-303D)
- Line counter
- Multi-disc Carbonite drag system
- Ratcheting star drag
- High line capacity
- 4:2:1 gear ratio and 3+1 ball bearings
Product Overview
The Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel is a good option for striped bass fishing, especially if you plan to troll for striped bass in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
The CW-303D comes equipped with a line counter, which allows you to accurately measure the amount of line you have let out, making it easier to target specific depths and maintain consistent lure presentations.
The Multi-disc Carbonite drag system in the CW-303D consists of multiple carbon fiber drag washers. With this drag system, you can confidently handle the powerful runs and sudden bursts that striped bass are known for.
This reel has a self-lubricating gearbox system and a ratcheting star drag system, which is designed to provide precision and ease of use while adjusting the drag settings during your fishing experience.
It’s equipped with a gear ratio of 4:2:1 and 3+1 ball bearings.
Product Features
- Line counter
- Multi-disc Carbonite drag system
- Ratcheting star drag
- High line capacity
- 4:2:1 gear ratio and 3+1 ball bearings
Pros
- Users appreciate the built-in line counter, which allows them to precisely measure the amount of line they have let out
- The ratcheting star drag system offers precision drag adjustments, reducing the risk of line breakage during intense battles
- Offers good value for the features and performance it provides
Cons
- We would prefer a higher gear ratio for faster retrieval speed
4. Daiwa Tatula SV TW103 Baitcast Fishing Reel
- Compact and lightweight
- Low-profile design
- SV spool with TWS (T-Wing System)
- Magforce-Z cast control
- UTD drag system
- Swept handle with cutouts
- Infinity dual stopper
Product Overview
The Daiwa Tatula SV TW103 is a high-quality and versatile reel designed for anglers who want precision casting and smooth performance.
This baitcasting reel features an aluminum frame and side plate construction. It’s designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and cast for anglers of all skill levels.
The Tatula SV TW103 comes with an SV (Stress-Free Versatile) spool that features the T-Wing System (TWS). This system enhances line flow and reduces friction during casting, resulting in longer and more accurate casts with reduced backlashes.
The reel is equipped with Daiwa’s Magforce-Z magnetic cast control system, allowing anglers to adjust the magnetic braking force to match the lure weight and casting conditions. This helps in achieving precise and controlled casts.
The Tatula SV TW103 has a high gear ratio of 7.3:1, which enables fast line retrieval, and 8+1 ball bearings.
Product Features
- Compact and lightweight
- Low-profile design
- SV spool with TWS (T-Wing System)
- Magforce-Z cast control
- UTD drag system
- Swept handle with cutouts
- Infinity dual stopper
Pros
- Precise and controlled casting, great for anglers who want to reach distant targets with ease
- The high gear ratio offers efficiency during lure presentations and when fighting fish
- Whether targeting bass in freshwater or inshore species like striped bass, the reel performs admirably in various fishing environments
Cons
- The handle’s design might not be the most ergonomic, especially for larger hand sizes
- The reel’s line capacity is limited when targeting larger or offshore species since it’s designed for freshwater and inshore fishing, and it performs well within its intended range
5. Shimano Torium SW 30 Saltwater Stardrag Multiplier Reel
- Hagane body
- S-compact body
- Super Stopper II feature
- Star drag system
- Super free spool
- Clicker system
- 3+ 1 anti-rust bearings and a 6.2:1 gear ratio
Product Overview
The Torium SW 30 features a Hagane body, which is a high-rigidity metal construction that provides enhanced durability, rigidity, and impact resistance while maintaining a lightweight design. The materials and coatings provide excellent corrosion resistance.
The S-Compact Body design helps reduce reel size and weight while maximizing cranking power and minimizing angler fatigue
Its cross-carbon drag system allows anglers to apply sufficient pressure to tire out and control large saltwater fish. Its star drag system allows for easy and precise adjustment of the drag pressure during the fight with powerful saltwater species.
The Torium SW reels offer generous line capacities to handle the long runs and powerful pulls of big fish.
The Super Stopper II feature eliminates backplay in the handle, providing anglers with instant hook-setting power. The clicker system provides an audible indication when the line is being pulled from the reel, alerting anglers to potential strikes or action on the line.
Gear Ratio is 6.2:1 and the reel comes with 3+1 ball bearings.
Product Features
- Hagane body
- S-compact body
- Super Stopper II feature
- Star drag system
- Super free spool
- Clicker system
- 3+ 1 anti-rust bearings and a 6.2:1 gear ratio
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight
- Excellent casting distance
- Comfortable cranking during extended fishing sessions
- The audible clicker system alerts anglers to potential bites or line movement when the reel is in free spool mode
Cons
- Very expensive
- Some users, particularly those new to multiplier reels, may find that there is a learning curve when it comes to casting and adjusting the reel’s drag system
6. Daiwa BG4000 Spinning Reel
- Dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool
- Advanced tournament drag (ATD) system
- Manual bail return
- Air rotor design
- 5.6:1 gear ratio, 6+1 ball bearings
Product Overview
The BG4000 is a mid-sized reel that can be used for various fishing applications, including inshore and light saltwater fishing. It is suitable for targeting a wide range of species, including striped bass, redfish, snook, and more.
The Daiwa BG4000 features a sturdy aluminum body and side cover. The Air Rotor design reduces weight and improves balance, increasing sensitivity, smoothness, and strength during retrieves.
Its dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool design allows for extended casting distances and reduces line twist, which is particularly useful when using braided lines. The Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD) system provides smooth and consistent drag performance, enabling anglers to handle powerful runs and hard-fighting fish like striped bass.
The reel features an infinite anti-reverse system, providing solid hooksets and preventing any backward movement during the fight. The BG4000 has a manual bail return system, which many anglers prefer for its reliability and control.
It comes with 6+1 ball bearings and a 5.6:1 gear ratio.
Product Features
- Dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool
- Advanced tournament drag (ATD) system
- Manual bail return
- Air rotor design
- 5.6:1 gear ratio, 6+1 ball bearings
Pros
- Users praise the ATD drag system for its smooth and powerful performance, which helps in landing big fish
- Smooth and fluid retrieve making it a joy to use during extended fishing sessions.
- Offers great value for its performance and features compared to other higher-priced reels
Cons
- A few users have reported issues with the bail trip mechanism
- The bail arm can be stiff and requires some effort to close properly after casting
7. PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel – (Size 30)
- Durable graphite frame and side plates
- HT-100 drag system
- Level wind system
- Line capacity rings
- Multi-position power handle
- 6.0:1 gear ratio, 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball
Product Overview
In the Squall series, Penn offers 4 types of reels. Among all of them, Level Wind provides the best value for money. The graphite frame of this reel makes it lightweight.
Its HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers provide impressive drag power, allowing you to apply sufficient pressure to battle strong and hard-fighting fish like striped bass. The carbon fiber material ensures smooth and consistent drag performance, even during extended fights.
The level wind feature helps ensure even line lay on the spool, reducing tangles and improving casting performance.
The reel’s power handle can be adjusted to different positions, providing a comfortable grip and control during battles with striped bass.
The Size 30 Squall II has a moderate line capacity, making it suitable for targeting medium to larger-sized striped bass commonly found in saltwater environments.
The gear ratio is 6.0:1 and the reel is equipped with 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings.
The PENN Squall II Level Wind Reel is versatile and suitable for various fishing techniques, including trolling, bottom fishing, and casting.
Product Features
- Durable graphite frame and side plates
- HT-100 drag system
- Level wind system
- Line capacity rings
- Multi-position power handle
- 6.0:1 gear ratio, 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball
Pros
- The HT-100 carbon fiber drag system receives high praise – anglers find it easy to adjust the drag settings, and the drag performs well during intense fights with stripers
- Very reliable and performs consistently, even after extended use in challenging fishing conditions
- Very comfortable and secure grip
Cons
- A few users have reported issues with the level wind system not operating smoothly or becoming misaligned
- Line capacity is limited for fishing in deeper waters
Things to Consider When Choosing Fishing Reels for Stripers
Reel Type
For striped bass fishing, spinning, conventional, and baitcasting reels can all be used effectively, and the choice comes down to personal preference and fishing style.
If you are new to fishing or prefer ease of use, a spinning reel might be a good choice. If you want more control and precision in your casting, a baitcasting reel could be a great option.
Conventional reels are ideal for trolling or bottom fishing scenarios. Whichever reel type you choose, be sure to match it with an appropriate rod and fishing line to optimize your striped bass fishing experience.
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Reel Size
For most striped bass fishing scenarios, reel sizes in the range of 3000 to 5000 for spinning reels and 200 to 400 for conventional or baitcasting reels are commonly used. These sizes provide a good balance between line capacity, drag power, and versatility.
However, if you’re specifically targeting larger stripers or fishing in saltwater environments, you may need to go for larger reel sizes with higher line capacity and stronger drag systems.
Line Capacity
As a general guideline, for spinning reels used in freshwater or light saltwater applications, a line capacity of around 150 to 200 yards of 10 to 20 lb test line should be sufficient for most striped bass fishing situations. For larger spinning reels used in saltwater environments or when targeting bigger stripers, consider a line capacity of 200 to 300 yards of 15 to 30 lb test line.
For conventional reels and baitcasting reels, the line capacity is usually indicated as a combination of monofilament and braided line capacities. For example, a reel might be rated for 200 yards of 20 lb test monofilament or 300 yards of 40 lb test braided line. This provides you with the option to use either type of line depending on your fishing preferences and needs.
Gear Ratio and Ball Bearings
For striped bass fishing, a moderate to high gear ratio is typically preferred. A gear ratio in the range of 6.0:1 to 7.0:1 is commonly used.
Higher gear ratios (e.g., 7.0:1) are ideal for techniques like fast retrieves, topwater lures, and when you need to quickly pick up line during a fish’s aggressive run.
Moderate gear ratios (e.g., 6.0:1 to 6.4:1) are more versatile and suitable for various techniques, including jigging, soft plastics, and medium-speed retrieves.
For striped bass fishing, look for reels with at least 4 to 7 ball bearings.
FAQs
What size reel is best for striper fishing?
- A spinning reel in the size range of 3000 to 5000
- A mid-sized baitcasting reel in the 200 to 300 size range
- A conventional reel in the size range of 200 to 400
What size rod is best for striped bass fishing?
- A medium-heavy to heavy spinning rod with a length of 7 to 9 feet
- A medium-heavy to heavy baitcasting rod with a length of 7 to 8.5 feet
- A medium-heavy to heavy conventional rod with a length of 6 to 7.5
- A surfcasting rod with a length of 9 to 12 feet
What terminal tackle to use?
- For small to medium-sized striped bass, hooks in the range of 1/0 to 4/0 are commonly used. For larger stripers, consider using hooks in the 5/0 to 8/0 range
- For shallow water, lighter sinkers like 1/2 ounce to 1 ounce may be sufficient. In deeper waters or strong currents, you may need sinkers in the range of 2 ounces to 4 ounces or more
- Use a leader in the range of 20 to 40 lb test
- Have a selection of sizes and colors of lures like bucktails, soft plastics, and spoons to experiment and find what works best
- The size of swivels should match the line you’re using
What is the best bait to use for striped bass?
- Live Bait: Live baits are highly effective for striped bass, as they provide natural movement and scent that attracts the fish. Some popular live baits include:
- Live Eels: Eels are a top choice for targeting large striped bass, especially during the warmer months.
- Bunker (Menhaden): Bunker is a favorite food source for striped bass, and using live bunker can entice even the most finicky stripers.
- Herring: Threadfin herring or river herring are also great live baits for striped bass.
- Cut Bait: Cut bait refers to pieces of fish used as bait. When fishing with cut bait, consider using:
- Bunker (Menhaden): Cut bunker can be effective when you don’t have access to live bait.
- Mackerel: Cut mackerel can be productive, especially when targeting larger striped bass.
- Artificial Lures: Many anglers have success catching striped bass with artificial lures. Some popular choices include:
- Topwater Lures: Poppers, walk-the-dog lures, and surface plugs can create exciting strikes when striped bass are feeding near the surface.
- Jigs: Bucktail jigs, paddle tail jigs, and swimbaits are versatile and effective lures for striped bass in various fishing situations.
- Soft Plastics: Soft plastic baits, such as shads, grubs, and swimbaits, can mimic baitfish and attract striped bass.
- Clams: Fresh or salted clams are known to be effective bait for striped bass, particularly in surf fishing or when targeting stripers in areas where clams are prevalent.
- Squid: Squid is another bait option that can attract striped bass, especially when fishing near structure or during nighttime fishing.
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