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Fishing for tuna can be quite difficult, especially if you lack the right gear which makes your experience easier. Tuna fishing reels are a key part of your fishing gear and using the right reel is vital to having a successful expedition. This is why using only the best reels on the market would do.
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My Best Reel for Tuna Fishing Recommendations
Reeling is practically the final aspect of your tuna fishing, hence why using a great reel is important. Tuna has a reputation for putting up a fight and if your reel isn’t up to the task, you might soon find yourself with a damaged one and no catch.
Best Tuna Fishing Reel: Penn’s Slammer Spinning Fishing Reel III
The Penn's Slammer III Spinning Reels should be top on your list especially if you love offshore tuna fishing.
First, you cannot overlook its extraordinary design. The black and gold-colored reel comes with a top look which makes owners proud to display this beauty amongst other fishermen.
In the way of structure, it features a complete metal frame that gives this reel more power during tuna fishing expeditions. It boasts 7+1 bearings which limit friction, increase speed, making this beauty a top choice if you are a yellowfin tuna or bluefin fishing gear enthusiast.
With this reel comes a drag of about 60 pounds and 80 pounds of more than 500 yards of braided line.
This reel’s work rate is amplified by its extreme drag settings and how it increases your chances of a good catch significantly. Compared to the RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II, Penn’s Slammer can handle bigger tuna and it is efficient, durable, and strong.
This reel has received IPX6 ratings which means that it can withstand extremely high water pressure which makes it stand out compared to some Shimano fishing reels.
This reel is particularly efficient in catching a variety of tuna including wahoos, marlin, bluefin, and yellowfin tuna without experiencing damage, this makes it a worthy addition to your reel collection.
However, it is quite heavy and can’t be used for long hours due to the discomfort it would cause to the angler.
Pros
- Long-term durability thanks to the reel’s full metal frame
- Strong drag feature of this reel ensures that you can catch big tuna as yellowfin
Cons
- Heavy weight makes it great only for the somewhat muscular
- You may lose the cap which comes with the knob
- Full Metal Body, side plate, and rotor
- CNC Gear technology
- IP6 Sealed body and spool design.Drag Type: Front Drag
Best Dragging Tuna Fishing Reel: Shimano TLD 2-Speed Reel
The Shimano TLD 2 Speed Reel proves efficient and durable even when fishing big tuna-like yellowfin tuna and bluefin tuna.
Although the Shimano TLD does not have the Okuma Makaira’s thrust bearings and Shimano Tiagra’s hydrothermal drag system, it is still a highly effective saltwater reel.
The Shimano TLD reel employs a double-dog ratchet system rather than a roller bearing, and this double-dog ratchet system enables you to back up your fishing line without upsetting your live bait. TLD versions all have a robust aluminum spool with a graphite frame and side plate which prevent rust and corrosion to the reel.
The ergonomic power handle is known for their ease of use when cranking. The Shimano TLD two-speed variants differ from other models by having a powerful drag system, the capacity to handle larger lines, and an exceptionally low gear ratio. Also, the spool of this reel accommodates more lines than the regular reel and this allows you to use multiple fishing line measurements when fishing for tuna, giving you a higher chance for a catch.
They are made out of graphite and aluminum making this reel rust and corrosion-resistant for saltwater fishing. The two-speed gear feature gives you the option of hauling fast swimming tunas quickly and also heavy tunas.
However, one flaw in this masterwork is that there are no reinforcements to counteract the noticeable twisting in the frame.
Pros
- Lightweight which makes it easier to use
- Long-term durability makes it useful for years to come
- Sufficient resistance against corrosion and rust
Cons
- Plastic drag adjuster may snap under strain when handling large fish
- Tie-down screws appear to be flimsy
- The Shimano TLD30IIA 2-Speed Offshore Lever Drag Fishing Reels are powerful; light and durable
- Each Shimano TLD-IIA reel features Shimano's patented 2-speed shifting mechanism and A-RB anti-rust...
- The A-RB bearings provide the corrosion resistance needed for saltwater use
Best Practical Tuna Fishing Reel: Sougayilang Reel
The Sougayilang Reel comes with ball bearings which are anti-rust and it also features an anti-reverse making your deep sea fishing experience effortless and preventing loss of your catch.
Its bearings are resistant to corrosion and the reel comes with an additional graphite spool upon purchase.
This guarantees that this reel continuously delivers over a long time in your tuna deep sea fishing expedition. It is lighter, compared to the Okuma Makaira but this does not in any way reduce efficiency.
The Sougayilang Reel comes with an interchangeable handle made of aluminum and its primary shaft is made of strong metal. This ensures that you can use this reel for tuna fishing comfortably either being left-handed or right-handed and its shaft guarantees usage for a long time.
This reel is really powerful, commonly known as a fortress and it comes with a precise drag great for battling tuna.
This reel is easy to maintain which makes it great in the long run. It is also perfect for different types of waters, ranging from the oceans to seas, lakes, ponds, and rivers. You do not need to be an expert deep seawater angler or good at using deep sea fishing reels to benefit from the goodness of this reel and catch some tuna.
The major disadvantage to this reel is that the nut holding the gears together can come loose easily. Also, its frame is made out of less durable plastic.
Pros
- Handle is perfect, giving you a good grip especially if you have bigger hands
- Manufacturer provides excellent customer service for easy replacement and repairs
Cons
- Can get damaged easily. The frame isn’t as strong as other reels, made of plastic
- Chances of rust during early usage is high
- 【Eye-catching appearance】Sougayilang GSM fishing reel have been fully upgraded on the basis of...
- 【Rigid aluminum skeletal frame】 The Sougayilang GSM spin fishing reel is built for enormous...
- 【Pro level quality gears】The main drive gear is made of durable zinc alloy matched with a pinion...
Strongest Tuna Fishing Reel: The Okuma Makaira
There are four D’s in the Okuma Makaira design: drag, design, durability, drive. This reel offers anglers a wide range of tuna targets when deep sea fishing.
It offers various spool options like the MK10-II which has a line that can withstand the test of any tuna weighing around 15 pounds and the MK180-II which has a line that can handle a weight of up to 80 pounds.
Compared to the Shimano TLD 2-speed reels, which are lightweight, the Okuma Makaira weighs more. However, with its weight, in two positions, the lever drag provides extraordinary strength and maximum drag ratings.
This accelerates fight time and makes it easier to turn even the biggest tuna. When the big fish become tired of the strike setting, the max setting could be used to finish the struggle.
The Makaira’s side plates and frame are made of the best-grade aerospace aluminum, known for stability and strength. This ensures that it can withstand the strength of big tuna and guarantees usage over a long period.
Both normal and special edition Makaira reels come with two-speed gear systems making this reel a good choice for fast swimming tunas and deep water tunas.
As against other handle types, like the knob type in the Shimano Stradic reel, the Okuma Makaira comes with an aluminum handle and a T-bar made of rubber for a better grip. It also features a perfectly placed drainage system which prevents water from staying too long and causing damage.
One major downside here is that this reel is heavy and so it cannot be used for hours at a stretch without feeling pretty tired and sore.
Pros
- Durable because it is made using materials that are strong and can endure the force of big fish
- The sleek design makes this reel one of the easiest to use
Cons
- Heavy, making it hard to use for long hours
- Not made to be a fast reel, making it hard to catch fast-swimming tuna fish
- MACHINE RIGID CONSTRUCTION – Features 6061-T6 machined aluminum frame, side-plate and spool for...
- CORROSION-RESISTANT COATING – Features Okuma’s CRC: Corrosion-resistant coating process which...
- DIAL IT IN WITH TWO 2-SPEED GEARING - Okuma's 2-speed technology incorporates two sets of stainless...
Best Lightweight Tuna Fishing Reel: The RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II
When you need a tuna reel that is specifically made to be as light as possible, resistant to corrosion and rust, and also waterproof, the RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II is your reel.
The manufacturers gave this product a sleek design, without missing out on those unique features that make reels stand the test of time against tuna fish, like power and strength.
Just like the Okuma Makaira, the RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II comes with a perfect drainage system. In addition, these tuna fishing spinning reels offer a total system that shields its gears from water and dirt.
Before this product was placed on the market, it went through a 168-hour test in salt mist to ensure that it was rigid in saltwater, making it corrosion-resistant.
This ensures that this reel stands the test of time when you fish for big fish and tuna, which are predominately saltwater species. It comes with a strong drag which enforces its durability and ensures that it still works just fine after dealing with tuna species.
This reel comes in different sizes, namely: 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000. The first two types come with three washers each and the last three come with five washers each.
These washers give consistent stopping force, help to increase maximum drag by a whopping 40%, and ensure that you catch tuna species. The special highlight is excellent corrosion technology unmatched by many other bluefin tuna fishing reels.
However, a significant downside to this product is that it wobbles if you reel too fast.
Pros
- Lightweight, it can be used for a long time effortlessly
- Durable, ensuring that you get the value long-term
Cons
- Wobbles when reeling too fast preventing you from maintaining a solid grip
- Handle is partly aluminum and partly plastic thus reducing durability
- Improved & Enhanced Process: The TITAN II spinning reel is constructed of full metal body with...
- Silky Smooth Construction: 9+1 precise stainless steel shield bearings, stronger precision NCTM (No...
- Entire Shield System: The TITAN II spinning reel features a built-in R.E.S.S. (RUNCL Entire Shield...
Features to Consider for Best Tuna Fishing Reels
There is no one-reel-for-all when dealing with tuna. The choice of fishing reels for tuna ranges based on various factors like preference, functionality, and effectiveness in specific waters. However, certain noteworthy features like a tuna fishing pole, should always be looked out for when selecting the best fishing reels for tuna:
| RUNCL Spinning Reels Titan II | Okuma Makaira | Sougayilang Reel | Shimano TLD 2-speed reels | Penn’s Slammer 3 | |
| Target tuna | Bluefin Tuna | Big Eye/Bluefin | Bass/Yellowfin | Marlin/Yellowfin | Wahoo/Bluefin/Yellowfin |
| Handle | EVA | T-Bar | CNC aluminum | Knob | Knob |
| Frame | Stainless steel and aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum and graphite | Graphite | Aluminum |
Comfortable Weight
For the best tuna reels to withstand a fight, they must be well-built. This means that the best tuna reels should not be lightweight. Note that this does not mean their weight should cause significant discomfort when you fish.
The RUNCL Spinning Reel Titan II is light and comfortable, a high quality reel for this feature. Despite being the most expensive fishing reel choice, these tuna fishing spinning reels are equally durable to withstand a fight.
Corrosion Resistance
Fishing in saltwater is essential, particularly when dealing with tuna. As a result, all the best tuna reels, gear, and equipment must be resistant to rust. They must be constructed of stainless steel or similar materials.
The spool, frame, and side plates are all made of graphite or aluminum. These items are less in weight while yet providing a lot of strength and resistance to corrosion.
Reel Speed Type
The speed of your reel choice should correspond to the species of tuna you wish to fish. However, if it does not or you do not know what speed it is, it could make your fishing experience somewhat difficult.
For dealing with speedy tunas like the yellowfin, using a two-speed reel is beneficial, and a single-speed reel works when bringing the huge ones to the boat. A two-speed lets fishermen immediately rip line in and combat heavy tuna with remarkable efficiency.
A single-speed reel does not bring the lines in as fast as a two-speed. But, it is excellent for slow retrieval of lines and usually the best choice for wintertime tuna fishing. It is excellent for marlin.
The Okuma Makaira, among the fishing reels for tuna on my list, has exceptional corrosion resistance thanks to the highest grade aircraft aluminum, which provides strength and stability. It also has a two-speed transmission.
Handle
Make sure that the reel’s handle provides you with the type of grip you desire. It should prevent your hands from slipping off easily. This way, you catch tuna and won’t waste time carrying it into the boat.
Pay close attention to the design of a reel’s handle and the particular grip it offers. For example, if you love fishing for heavy fish, selecting a handle with an offset power grip guarantees that you have power, control, and convenience when fishing.
The Penn’s Slammer III knob handle is the easiest to use on my list for comfort and effectiveness in preventing slip-offs.
Frame
The frame is what decides how effective the reel’s body can be. It must be able to handle other reel components, be sturdy enough to operate efficiently while dealing with larger tuna, and must not be too heavy to provide discomfort.
The Penn’s Slammer Spinning Reel III is the most durable of the fishing reels for tuna on my list, thanks to its entire metal body composed of aluminum.
Spool
When struggling with heavy draw tensions while dealing with your catch, using a poor spool can be stressful and exhausting. As a result, keep an eye out for an excellent spool, one constructed of strong materials like machined aluminum.
If you want to go deep-sea fishing, opting for huge line spools is your best bet because it allows you to use multiple line measurements when catching tuna and this ensures that you are not at a disadvantage against deep-sea species like the bluefin tuna and the bigeye tuna.
Among the tuna reels on my list, the Shimano TLD 2-speed reel boasts one of the best spools. Longer lines are included, allowing for the use of numerous line measurements.
Bearing
For proper functioning and endurance, your tuna fishing bearing must pass three tests: excellent quality, sufficient quantity, and rust resistance. Bearings that pass these tests minimize friction, enhance speed, and make motion easier.
The Penn’s Slammer Spinning Reel III, for example, is one of the tuna reels on my list with a bearing that passes all three of these tests.
Stainless steel is an excellent material for the best tuna fishing reels since it is durable and resistant to rust. Bearings that are sealed or protected are much more resistant to corrosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Drag Does Tuna Require?
Tuna requires around 130 pounds of drag pressure from a carbon fiber drag system. This pressure should equal the strength of a good tuna fishing rod, which should be kept at arm’s length on short reinforced rods with full-body harnesses.
Catching tuna, especially the big ones, have traditionally necessitated the use of stronger equipment. This is a challenging task, but with the appropriate drag, you can complete it.
What Kind of Gear Is Useful for Fishing Tuna?
When fishing for tuna, here is a list of equipment that is important to your success.
- Hooks
- Balloons
- Deep sea fishing reels
- Tuna lures or live bait
- Sinkers
- Durable line
- Fishing gaff
- Reel or rod for tuna
Note that your gear must be made out of high-strength material. Deep sea fishing reels must be durable in battling tunas that are heavy, fast swimmers who do not give up the fight easily.
Conclusion
Getting the best tuna reel can be the difference between a great fishing experience and an unpleasant one. Beyond getting a name product, getting one that has the right features is vital.