If you want to level up your angling game, nothing can be as exciting as fishing tuna. They range from 10 lbs. skipjacks to 2,000 lbs. bluefins. Across the tropical oceans, you will find around 50 species of tuna. Among all of them, bluefins have charisma like big TV stars. But whenever it comes to sport or hobby fishing, yellowfin take away the spotlight from bluefins. You will easily find them from the Northeast Canyons coast to central South America, including the Gulf of Mexico.

The taste of tuna is delicious, but catching them is challenging. If you don’t have the right reel, catching tuna becomes daunting. In this guide, we have listed the 7 best fishing reels for tuna that are highly powerful and can also stand saltwater abuse. 

If you are not sure which reel to choose, then check our buying guide first, where we have discussed the parameters that you need to consider while selecting a suitable fishing reel to catch tuna.

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Top 3 Comparison Table

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1. Penn International VI Conventional Fishing Reel – ‎INT50VISX

Product Overview

The Penn International VI INT50VISX is a high-quality and powerful offshore big game fishing reel.

It features a full-metal body and side plates, providing exceptional durability. The reel has precision-machined stainless steel main and pinion gears, delivering a powerful gear system for reliable performance.

The reel is equipped with Penn’s Dura-Drag system, providing a smooth and consistent drag performance even under heavy loads. The double-dog ratchet system ensures secure hooksets and prevents any unwanted handle movement during intense fights with powerful fish.

The Quick-Shift II 2-speed system allows anglers to switch between two different gear ratios quickly and easily. The high gear ratio provides a fast retrieval rate. The low gear ratio offers increased cranking power.

The Versa-Strike adjustable strike stop allows anglers to set the reel to either a full or half-strike position, giving them control over the drag setting for different fishing scenarios.

The audible clicker system lets you detect line movement when fish take the bait without engaging the drag.

Equipped with a total of 5 ball bearings and a 3.5:1; 1.3:1 gear ratio.

Product Features

• Quick-shift II 2-speed system
• Dura-drag system
• Versa-strike adjustable strike stop
• Double-dog ratchet anti-reverse
• Line capacity rings
• Switchblade harness lugs
• Clicker system
• 5 ball bearings, 3.5:1; 1.3:1 gear ratio

Pros

• The Dura-Drag system allows anglers to maintain control during intense battles with powerful fish, preventing sudden break-offs
• The quick-shift II 2-speed system is a standout feature, enables both fast retrievals and powerful cranking when needed
• The adjustable handle with an oversized knob provides excellent leverage and cranking power

Cons

• Some users have mentioned that the reel can be quite heavy, particularly when spooled with a large amount of line

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2. Shimano Tiagra TI50WLRSA Trolling Reel

Product Overview

The Shimano Tiagra TI50WLRSA is a high-quality trolling reel used for large pelagic fish.

Built with high-quality materials and precision engineering, the reel features a robust drag system with significant stopping power. The ratcheting lever drag system offers precise drag adjustments.

The reel features a two-speed gearing system, allowing you to switch between high-speed retrieval for quick line recovery and low-speed power for battling large and stubborn fish.

The gear ratio is 3.1:1, 1.3:1 and the reel comes with a total of 4 ball bearings.

Product Features

• Ratcheting lever drag system
• Two-speed gearing system
• Line counter
• 3.1:1, 1.3:1 gear ratio, 4 ball bearings
• Trolling application

Pros

• Reliable and precise drag adjustment
• Despite its robust build, users find the Tiagra TI50WLRSA to operate smoothly
• The Tiagra TI50WLRSA is purpose-built for trolling applications, and users appreciate its smooth and reliable performance when towing baits or lures behind the boat

Cons

• A few users have reported occasional backlash issues when casting with heavier lures or baits

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3. PENN Squall II 50LW Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel

Product Overview

The PENN Squall II 50LW is a powerful and versatile reel designed for heavy-duty saltwater fishing, targeting large and hard-fighting species, including tuna, marlin, sailfish.

The Squall II 50LW is built with a rugged, lightweight graphite frame and sideplates, providing both strength and corrosion resistance.

The level wind feature ensures that the line is evenly distributed on the spool during retrieval. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag system delivers smooth and consistent drag performance even under heavy loads.

The Squall II 50LW features a loud clicker system that signals when a fish takes the bait, providing an audible indication of strikes during trolling.

The Squall II 50LW has a gear ratio of 4.8:1, which strikes a balance between power and speed. It’s equipped with 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings.

Product Features

• Level wind system
• HT-100 carbon fiber drag system
• Line capacity rings
• Extended bent power handle and oversized knob
• 4.8:1 gear ratio, 2+1 stainless steel ball bearings

Pros

• Reliable and trustworthy reel – it consistently performs well and meets the demands of offshore fishing
• The extended bent power handle with an oversized knob provides users with additional torque and power
• Users find the level wind feature helpful in distributing the line evenly on the spool during retrieval

Cons

• Although the power handle with an oversized knob is favored by many, some users might find it uncomfortable to use, especially if they have smaller hands
• While the reel has decent line capacity, some users might find it insufficient for long runs

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4. Okuma Makaira MK-50II Lever Drag Reel

Product Overview

This reel is a top-of-the-line option from Okuma designed for offshore big game fishing, including targeting large and powerful tuna species. as well as other species such as marlin, and swordfish.

The frame of this premium reel is made of 6061-T6 machined aluminum. It also features corrosion-resistant stainless steel gearing.

It features a precise and adjustable lever drag system, allowing anglers to easily control the drag pressure during the fight with powerful fish. Like other Makaira reels, the MK-50II is equipped with Okuma’s Carbonite Dual Force Drag system, which delivers smooth and consistent drag performance to handle the high-speed runs and strong pulls.

The reel undergoes precision machining to ensure tight tolerances and optimal gear alignment, contributing to its durability and smooth operation.

The 650-yard line capacity allows you to spool a substantial amount of fishing line, which is essential when targeting big game fish.

It’s equipped with a total of 5 ball bearings and a gear ratio of 3.2:1.

Product Features

• One-piece frame and side plates
• Precision machining
• Lever drag system
• Carbonite dual force drag
• High line capacity
• 5 ball bearings, 3.2:1 gear ratio

Pros

• Robust construction
• Designed to provide the cranking power needed to handle the strong resistance of big game fish
• Good line capacity, allows anglers to spool enough line for long runs and deep-sea fishing

Cons

• Price is on the higher side compared to other reels with similar specifications
• Slower retrieval

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5. Shimano Talica 25 II Speed Lever Drag Reel

Product Overview

The Shimano Talica 25 II is powerful, versatile and well-suited for heavy-duty tuna fishing.

Like almost all other options on this list, the Talica 25 II is built with a rigid and durable aluminum frame and side plates.

The Talica 25 II has a reliable lever drag system and a cross-carbon drag system. The maximum drag power is substantial, allowing anglers to apply significant pressure to tire out powerful tuna.

This reel has an impressive line capacity, typically able to hold a significant amount of heavy braided line suitable for tackling big tuna.

This reel features a total of 6 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing and a high-speed gear ratio of 5.2:1, and a low-speed gear ratio of 2.3:1.

Product Features

• Hagane body construction
• Lever drag system
• Carbon drag system
• Loud and adjustable clicker system
• 6+1 bearings, 5.2:1, 2.3:1 gear ratio

Pros

• The reel’s lever drag system is easy to adjust on the fly
• Allows users to spool a substantial amount of braided line
• While it excels at tuna fishing, it can also be used for other big game species, such as marlin, sailfish, and wahoo

Cons

• Very expensive
• A few users have reported that the lever drag adjustment system can be sensitive

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‎6. Daiwa SALTIGA Lever Drag – 2-Speed Reel SAGLD40-2SPD

Product Overview

The Daiwa SALTIGA Lever Drag 2-Speed Reel SAGLD40-2SPD is a high-performance reel designed for serious anglers targeting very powerful tuna.

The reel’s machined aluminum frame and side plate contribute to its overall strength and rigidity.

The reel features a carbon fiber drag system that delivers consistent and smooth drag performance, giving you the control needed to tire out powerful tuna. The lever drag system provides precise and easy drag adjustments, allowing you to quickly adapt to the changing behavior of the fish during the fight.

Like most of the options on our list, this reel comes with a two-speed gear system, allowing you to switch between high-speed retrieval for quick line pick-up and low-speed power for handling stubborn and hard-fighting tuna. The easy-to-access two-speed shift button lets you make quick and seamless gear changes during the fight.

The reel is equipped with a total of 6 ball bearings, and a 6.4:1, 3.1:1 gear ratio.

Product Features

• Magsealed construction
• Lever drag system
• Carbon fiber drag system
• Two-speed gear system
• Two-speed shift button
• Air rotor design
• 6 ball bearings, and a 6.4:1, 3.1:1 gear ratio

Pros

• Exceptionally smooth and friction-free operation, allowing for effortless casting and retrieval
• It offers substantial drag power to handle large and hard-fighting saltwater species
• Precise and instant drag adjustments during the fight

Cons

• While the Daiwa Saltiga reels are worth the money, they don’t come cheap

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7. GOMEXUS 80W Trolling Reel

Product Overview

The reel is built with strong and corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the harsh saltwater environment and the stress of fighting large fish.

The 2-speed feature allows for quick line retrieval when needed and offers more cranking power for fighting big fish.

Expect a smooth and reliable drag system to handle sudden bursts and runs from powerful fish.

The GOMEXUS 80W reel’s 130 lbs drag capacity allows it to handle powerful fish and withstand intense battles.

It comes with a 2.5:1, 1.3:1 gear ratio and 9 shielded stainless steel ball bearings.

Product Features

• Stainless steel construction
• 2-speed feature
• Powerful lever drag system
• HT-100 carbon fiber drags
• 2.5:1, 1.3:1 gear ratio
• 9 ball bearings

Pros

• The 2-speed feature provides versatility
• Significant cranking power
• Robust handle design

Cons

• Relatively unknown brand

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What to Consider When Choosing a Tuna Fishing Reel

Reel Type

For tuna fishing, the two main types of reels commonly used are spinning reels and conventional (baitcasting) reels. Each type has its advantages and is suitable for different fishing techniques and preferences:

Spinning reels are easy to cast, and they provide good casting distance and accuracy. They are also suitable for various fishing techniques, such as casting lures, live bait fishing, and vertical jigging.

Baitcasting reels, are preferred by experienced anglers who want more control and power when battling larger tuna. These reels have a higher gear ratio, allowing for faster line retrieval, and they typically have stronger drag systems to handle the powerful runs of tuna. Conventional reels are commonly used for trolling and bottom fishing with heavy baits or jigs.

Reel Size

For medium-sized tuna species like yellowfin tuna or albacore, a reel in the 4000 to 8000 size range for spinning reels or 20 to 40 size range for conventional reels would be appropriate.

For larger tuna species like bluefin tuna, bigeye tuna, or yellowtail tuna, you’ll need a more substantial and heavy-duty reel. For spinning reels, consider sizes in the 8000 to 14000 range, and for conventional reels, look for sizes around 50 to 100.

Line Capacity

For medium-sized tuna species, a reel with a line capacity of around 300 to 500 yards of monofilament or braided line would be sufficient. However, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra line in case the tuna takes a long run.

For larger tuna species like bluefin tuna or bigeye tuna, you’ll need a reel with a higher line capacity. Look for reels that can hold around 500 to 800 yards of line or more.

Keep in mind that the line capacity you need may also depend on the fishing technique you’re using. For example, if you’re trolling for tuna, you might need more line capacity to handle the long runs.

Gear Ratio

We recommend having a reel with an adjustable gear ratio (e.g., a two-speed reel), as it allows you to switch between high and low gear ratios as needed.

Ball Bearings

Many high-end tuna fishing reels come with a significant number of ball bearings (e.g., 6 or more), but there are also excellent reels with fewer ball bearings that perform exceptionally well.

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FAQs

What size reel is best for tuna fishing?

For smaller tuna species, such as skipjack and albacore, a medium-sized reel like a 4000 to 8000 spinning reel or a size 20 to 30 conventional reel should be sufficient.

A size 8000 to 10000 spinning reel or a size 50 to 80 conventional reel would be more suitable for larger tuna.

What is the best reel for bluefin tuna fishing?

The best reel for bluefin tuna fishing is typically a large, high-quality, and powerful conventional reel.

We recommend the Shimano Talica II or the Penn International VISX.

What is the best reel for trolling for tuna?

The Shimano Tiagra series is a popular choice for trolling for tuna.

What size rod for tuna fishing?

Look for rods with a heavy or extra-heavy power rating and fast or extra-fast action. The length of the rod can vary, but a 6’6″ to 7’6″ rod is commonly used for tuna fishing.

What is the best tackle setup for tuna?

• Leader: Attach a fluorocarbon leader to the end of the mainline. The leader should be at least 6 to 10 feet long, with a breaking strength that matches or slightly exceeds the mainline. Fluorocarbon is less visible underwater and provides abrasion resistance.
• Terminal Tackle: Use strong and sharp hooks in the appropriate size for the bait or lures you’ll be using. Heavy-duty swivels and snaps are also essential for connecting the leader to the mainline and attaching lures or baits.
• Lures and Baits: Tuna can be caught using various lures and baits, such as trolling lures, poppers, and live or dead baitfish. Choose lures and baits that match the tuna’s prey in the area and imitate their natural movement.
• Fighting Belt and Harness: Consider using a fighting belt and harness to help distribute the pressure during long fights with large tuna. This will reduce fatigue and strain on your body.

What is the best bait to use?

1. Live Bait: Live baitfish such as anchovies, sardines, mackerel, and small bonito are highly effective for tuna fishing.
2. Dead Bait: Dead bait can also be successful, especially when trolling or chunking. Fresh dead baitfish like bonito, mackerel, or squid are excellent.
3. Artificial Lures: Tuna are known for their aggression towards fast-moving lures. Trolling lures like feather jigs, cedar plugs, skirted trolling lures, and deep-diving plugs can entice tuna to strike.
4. Poppers: Topwater poppers can be exciting to use when tuna are feeding on the surface.
5. Butterfly Jigs: These jigs are designed to flutter and dart erratically when jigged vertically. They are effective for targeting tuna that are deep or holding under schools of baitfish.
6. Chunk Bait: Chunking involves cutting large pieces of baitfish and scattering them in the water to create a scent trail. It can be effective for attracting tuna to the boat and keeping them in the area.

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