As fishermen, we often wonder about our tackle’s impact on our fishing. Many will argue that spending more money should lead to results. We challenge that claim to say that higher-priced items don’t always yield results unless you know how to use the extra features that are offered.

When it comes to your fishing equipment, one of the most sophisticated pieces you will own is your fishing reel. While reels can help specialize in casting for distance and accuracy, its most important feature is its ability to retrieve the fishing line quickly and smoothly.

A reliable reel that yields results is the goal for any true angler. If you are interested in buying one of the top reels available out there, regardless of the price tag, then we have compiled the perfect list for you.

Check out our selection of the 5 most expensive (& best) fishing reels on the market.

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Top 3 Comparison Table

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Top 5 Most Expensive Fishing Reels

1. Shimano Stella SW STL18000SWHGC Spinning Fishing Reel

Product Overview

Shimano recently launched their new Stella SWB Spinning Reel, arguably the best spinning reel on the market, ranging between $1100-1400. With its ability to handle power while delivering smoothness, you will land fish you could only dream about.

This reel was made to handle the most aggressive sport fish in the seas. What makes this reel incredible is how light it is – only 1.93 pounds! At this weight, you may guess that this reel is the strongest reel on the market based on a pound-by-pound basis. Its silk aluminum handle and one-piece shaft help to maintain power and strength over almost any fish. 

One can only imagine the oversized metal jigs and poppers that can be used with this reel. Not only can you use this heavy-duty equipment, but you can cast it at extremely high levels of precision and accuracy.

Improved technology has welcomed a new era for its X Tough Drag which allows for continued drag consistency that lasts for your entire battle with the fish. Whether you are fishing for the prized blue tuna or a giant blue marlin, this reel will work for you.

Shimano continues to be the leader in premium spin reels. Their Stella series is regarded as their premium class for saltwater fishermen. 

Product Features

• Hagane body construction – rigid and durable metal body design
• X-Ship Technology which minimizes gear deflection and maximizes cranking power
• X-Tough Drag offers smooth and consistent drag performance
• G-Free Body design in the Stella SW C reels shifts the reel’s center of gravity closer to the rod, reducing fatigue and providing better balance
• 5.7:1 gear ratio
• 14 ball bearings

Pros

• Exceptional durability and protection against corrosion and general wear and tear
• Allows anglers to handle strong and aggressive saltwater species with ease
• Exceptionally smooth retrieve
• Efficient power transmission and smooth cranking
• Ensured comfort during extended fishing sessions

Cons

• Understanding and utilizing the full potential of the reel may require some learning and familiarization

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2. Daiwa SALTIGA 5000H Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel

Product Overview

Daiwa probably is the only other company that is able to compete with Shimano for top-tier spinning reels, ranging at a price between $800-1000. This sharp-looking blue reel can support high performance fishing for the biggest and fastest fish in the ocean. The Satltiga features an ATD, which is also known as an Automatic Drag System. This drag system allows for better experiences when battling and competing in long battles with fish. This feature promotes great movement and quickness for the reel. 

The gear ratio of the Saltiga 5000H is typically high, allowing for quick line retrieval. The exact gear ratio can vary, but it is commonly around 5.7:1 or 5.6:1, which enables fast line pickup and effective lure presentations. The Saltiga typically features 9 to 13 ball bearings, including both corrosion-resistant and sealed bearings.

Daiwa revolutionized the creation of their reels with the legendary Magsealed technology located on the spool shaft and line roller. It was built to handle the most challenging fishing conditions and had been a lead choice for Sport fishermen. Not only is this reel made with the highest-quality material among spinning reels, but it also has a great capacity to allow fish to go on long runs.

This reel can do things that most spinning reels can’t. You will be amazed with what this spinning reel can do. 

Product Features

• Durable and corrosion-resistant construction to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing
• Magsealed technology which prevents water and debris from entering the reel’s main body
• 5.7:1 gear ratio
• 12 ball bearings

Pros

• Rugged and corrosion-resistant construction
• High-quality ball bearings, which ensure smooth and precise operation
• Generous line capacity
• Suitable for surf fishing, offshore fishing, and inshore fishing

Cons

• Heavier compared to some other spinning reels in the same size range
• More complex to operate for novice anglers or those who are not familiar with baitcasting reels

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3. Shimano Talica 25 II Big Game Trolling Fishing Reel

Product Overview

Deep-sea fishing typically requires trolling as the preferred method for fishing. Shimano addressed this need by offering its Talica Trolling Fishing Reel at a price ranging from $600-750. From its initial design, this reel was made to be great for casting as well as having a premium drag system.

The Talica 25 II has a high gear ratio, typically around 5.2:1, which allows for fast line retrieval. The S-Compact body design of the Talica 25 II is more compact and ergonomic compared to traditional trolling reels, allowing for comfortable handling during long fishing sessions.

Braided lines work very smoothly with this reel as well as shorter fluorocarbon leaders. Another interesting feature is that this reel is available in several sizes to accommodate the different needs of offshore fishermen.

Although the description of this product is a trolling reel, it offers great versatility. It has the sensitivity and weight to achieve results when jigging, as well as the smooth capability and power to deliver the best experience when trolling.

Product Features

• Hagane body
• Lever drag system that allows for quick and easy adjustment of the drag pressure during the fight
• S-Compact body design – more compact and ergonomic compared to traditional trolling reels
• 5.2:1 gear ratio
• 6 + 1 anti-rust ball bearings

Pros

• It has a large line capacity, allowing anglers to spool a significant amount of braided line
• The Speed Lever Drag system allows anglers to make precise adjustments on the fly
• The compact size reduces the overall weight and allows for a more balanced feel
• The reel’s precision machined aluminum frame and side plates offer a lightweight yet sturdy construction

Cons

• The Talica 25 II is specifically designed for big game trolling, so it may be less versatile for other fishing techniques or target species

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4. Penn International VI 50VISX Big Game Fishing Reel

Product Overview

The Penn International VI 50VISX is a high-quality big game fishing reel costing between $600-700.

The Penn International VI 50VISX reel features a durable and corrosion-resistant full-metal body, side plates, and rotor. The reel is designed for versatile offshore applications, including trolling, bottom fishing, and live bait fishing. It offers the flexibility to target a wide range of big game species, such as marlin, tuna, sailfish, and large pelagic fish.

It has a high line capacity suitable for heavy-duty braided fishing lines: 950 yards of 50 lb test braided line, 750 yards of 65 lb test braided line, 600 yards of 80 lb test braided line.

The reel is equipped with a Dura-Drag system, which provides exceptional stopping power and heat resistance. This system ensures a consistent drag performance and minimizes the risk of the line breaking during intense battles. The reel utilizes a high-quality bearing system and precise gear alignment to deliver a smooth and efficient retrieve.

Product Features

• Designed for trolling, bottom fishing, and live bait fishing
• Generous line capacity
• The reel features line capacity rings on the spool, providing a convenient visual reference for remaining line capacity during fishing
• Dura-Drag system which ensures a consistent drag performance
• Ergonomic handle and grip

Pros

• It can target a wide range of big game species, making it a versatile choice for offshore anglers
• Powerful drag system allowing anglers to tackle large, hard-fighting fish with confidence
• The reel offers a dual-speed retrieve system, providing the flexibility for fast line retrieval or increased cranking power when needed

Cons

• The reel is quite big and relatively heavy due to its full metal construction

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5. EatMyTackle 30 Wide 2 Speed Saltwater Fishing Reel (Blue Marlin Tournament Edition)

Product Overview

Stepping away from the premium reel companies leads us to the company EatMyTackle. This reel costs anywhere between $500-600. Their 30 Wide 2 Speed Saltwater Fishing Reel was crafted for big-time offshore tournament fishing.

This model’s edition is dedicated to Blue Marlin Tournament Fishing. This reel features 9 shielded stainless steel ball bearings as well as a 2-speed gear ratio of 3.6:1 and 1.6:1. With a line capacity of 950 yds. of 30 lb. mono or 700 yds. of 100 lb. braid, its time to bring on the big fish!

This reel’s two-speed function helps retrieve line at incredibly fast speeds which help handle those last-minute runs when the fish approaches the boat. This high-quality and durable 4-pound reel can handle the extreme environment of deep-sea saltwater fishing.

Product Features

• The two-speed mechanism allows anglers to switch between high-speed and low-speed gear ratios
• Designed to hold a significant amount of fishing line
• Powerful drag system capable of applying significant pressure on the fish
• 3.6:1 and 1.6:1 gear ratio
• 9 ball bearings

Pros

• The two-speed design provides versatility in retrieving lines at different speeds
• The reel features a powerful drag system
• It holds a significant amount of fishing line

Cons

• Concerns about the reel’s ability to withstand prolonged use in challenging saltwater environments

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Q&A

Q: What is the most expensive reel that you can buy?

A: The most expensive reel you can buy (and that I consider the best one) is the Shimano Stella SW STL18000SWHGC Spinning Fishing Reel, which ranges from $1,100-1,400. Shimano is known as one of the most premium brands in the fishing reel industry.

Q: Do more expensive reels help catch more fish?

A: It depends. When it comes to traditional fishing in more common waters, having a solid reel to withstand the fish you catch is already enough. You don’t need to speed $1000+ to buy a reel that does exactly what a $50 reel will do for the fish that you may be catching.

Other factors can also be important such as the rod, the line and the lures. Having a strong balance of solid fishing tackle will help lead to the best results in catching more fish.

Q: What is the best fishing reel in the world?

A: Given its ability to handle the deep depths and more powerful fish, Daiwa SALTIGA5000H Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel would probably be considered the best fishing reel available in the world at this time.

The best fishing reel should be able to handle the most difficult fishing conditions that are possible while also giving the fishermen a fair chance to land the fish successfully. With advancements in technology, these premium fishing reel companies continue to make slight tweaks to improve their products. 

To Sum Up

I personally always battle the dilemma of what is most important when purchasing a new fishing reel: best value or best reel. At the end of the day, you want to try to have the best reel to help you land big fish. These reels are sold to cater to a specific group of fishermen within the fishing community. These reels have premium features that would go unnoticed by the average angler.

When it comes to the most expensive and top-notch reels, I prefer the Shimano Stella SW STL18000SWBHG Spinning Fishing Reel as my choice when fishing offshore. Not only is the reel super light but it is also so smooth, which can be helpful when battling those monster tuna fish. 

We will keep updating this list to correctly show the changes to these prices. We welcome your thoughts and opinions as the debate continues about which expensive fishing reels truly work the best. We recommend focusing on the top two brands, Shimano and Daiwa, as they continue to be the pioneers of the most innovative fishing reel technology.