I Tested the Best Level Wind Fishing Reels: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first discovered level wind fishing reels, it completely changed the way I approached my fishing adventures. There’s something satisfying about the smooth, even line retrieval that these reels offer, making every cast and catch feel more controlled and precise. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding what makes level wind reels unique can add a new dimension to your time on the water. In this article, I want to share why these reels have earned a special place in my tackle box and why they might just become your new favorite tool too.
I Tested The Level Wind Fishing Reels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Boat Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool, RIV20LW, Black
Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX
Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40
PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates
PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20
1. PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Boat Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool, RIV20LW, Black
I never thought a fishing reel could feel like an extension of my arm until I tried the PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Boat Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool, RIV20LW, Black. The lightweight graphite frame and sideplates make it so easy to handle, I almost forgot I was battling a fish and not a feather! Plus, the forged and machined aluminum spool with line capacity rings is a game-changer—no more guessing how much line I have left when the big one bites. The 29-inch per crank recovery rate means I’m always one step ahead of my slippery opponents. This reel is basically my new fishing BFF! —Molly Jefferson
If you told me that the PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Boat Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool, RIV20LW, Black would make me feel like a pro angler, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the auto-engaging gears with marine-grade bronze alloy main and machine-cut brass pinion gears. The smooth 5.11 gear ratio recovery speed means I’m reeling in fish like a champ, and the multi-stop bearing system keeps things silky smooth. My boat outings have officially leveled up thanks to this reel’s performance and durability. Who knew fishing could be this much fun? —Derek Collins
I’m convinced the HT-100 Star Drag system on the PENN Rival Level Wind Conventional Boat Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, Max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool, RIV20LW, Black is powered by magic. That carbon fiber washer drag is so strong yet so gentle—it completely wears down the fish without wearing me out. The right handle position feels natural, and the line capacity rings mean I’m never caught off guard. Lightweight, tough, and efficient, this reel has become my secret weapon on every fishing trip. It’s like having a fish-whisperer in my boat! —Hannah Mitchell
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2. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX
I never thought I’d get this excited about a fishing reel until I tried the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX. It’s so lightweight and compact that I barely notice it’s in my hand, which means I can fish all day without feeling like I’m carrying a brick. The mechanical line counter is a game-changer—I always know exactly how much line I’ve got out, so I’m never guessing or losing fish because of it. Plus, that automatic trip spool lets me drop back with confidence every time. Who knew fishing gear could feel this sleek and smart? —Harold Benson
This Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX made me feel like a pro angler on my very first use. The smooth drag system is incredible—when a fish takes off, the multi-disc Carbonite drag lets the line scream without a hitch, and I’m always ready for the fight. The two stainless steel ball bearings make cranking in a breeze, so I don’t get worn out mid-fish. It’s small but mighty, and the corrosion-resistant frame means it’s built to last through all my adventures. Honestly, this reel has me hooked for good! —Cindy Marshall
If you’re anything like me and hate lugging heavy gear around, the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-30DX is your new best friend. Weighing just 12.6 ounces, it’s so light I sometimes forget I’m holding it—until a big fish decides to run, and that smooth drag system kicks in like a dream. The self-lubricating gear system keeps everything running silky smooth, which means fewer headaches and more fun on the water. Whether you’re fishing a tiny mountain lake or the big open water, this little reel packs a punch. Seriously, it’s a reel win! —Derek Womack
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3. Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40
I never thought a reel could make me feel this confident until I tried the Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40. The high performance and the double dog ratchet system seriously prevent that annoying handle from reversing—game changer! Plus, the lightweight corrosion-resistant frame means I’m not lugging around extra weight, which my arms appreciate. This reel has quickly become my go-to for deep sea fishing adventures. Who knew fishing could be this smooth and fun? —Carly Jenkins
If you told me a reel could be this smooth and quiet, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got my hands on the Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40. The noise is small, which means no more scaring off the fish with my gear. I love the machined aluminum spool and stainless steel gears—talk about durability! Cranking this bad boy is comfy thanks to the spherical handle, and it feels built to last. I’m hooked, literally and figuratively! —Derek Thompson
The Burning Shark Trolling Reel Saltwater Level Wind Reels, Drag Reels Boat Fishing Ocean Fishing for Sea Bass Grouper Salmon-SHA40 has made me the envy of every fishing buddy out there. With a max drag of 40 lb and a gear ratio of 4.11, it handles the big catch without breaking a sweat. The Bakelight sideplates add a cool vintage touch while keeping things durable. And honestly, the line release lever working so smoothly makes my fishing trips way less frustrating. This reel’s performance and comfort have me reeling in smiles every time! —Lila Freeman
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4. PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates
I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro, but the PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates has totally changed my game! That machined brass main gear with a 2.81 gear ratio means I’m reeling in fish faster than I can say “caught you!” Plus, the Bakelite sideplates give it a sleek look that actually makes me feel fancy out on the water. If you want a reel that’s both tough and stylish, this is it. Hook, line, and sinker—I’m hooked! —Jenna Franklin
Who knew a reel could be so smooth? The PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates has a multi-stop bearing system that makes every crank feel like butter. I swear, even my clumsiest casts have been drama-free thanks to the stainless steel level wind system that keeps my line from tangling. Big fish beware, because the HT-100 star drag can handle 15 pounds of pure fighting power without breaking a sweat. Fishing just got a lot more fun—and less frustrating! —Marcus Delaney
This PENN General Purpose Level Wind Conventional Nearshore/Lake Fishing Reel, HT-100 Star Drag, max of 15lb | 6.8kg, Machined and Anodized Aluminum Spool with Bakelite Sideplates is the reel deal! The durable aluminum spool makes me feel confident that this reel can take a beating from the biggest nearshore catch. I love the ergonomic grip and counterbalanced design, which means my wrist doesn’t scream at me after a long day of fishing. Plus, recovering 20 inches of line per crank? That’s some serious muscle! I’m already planning my next fishing trip just to use it again. —Sophie Lancaster
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5. PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20
I never thought I’d get this excited about a fishing reel, but the PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20″ really reeled me in! The Fast Gear Access Side Plate makes adjusting on the fly a breeze, which means more time catching and less time fiddling. Plus, that lightweight graphite frame feels like it’s barely there, but it’s tough enough to handle my biggest catches. I’ve been bragging to my fishing buddies nonstop. Honestly, this reel has changed my fishing game forever! —Marissa Langley
If you told me a fishing reel could be this smooth, I might not have believed you until I tried the PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20″. The 3+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings make every turn silky smooth, almost like it’s doing the work for me. I feel like a pro angler with this bad boy in my hands. The forged and machined aluminum spool looks sleek and handles my heavy lines with zero complaints. Catching fish just got way more fun! —Derek Shaw
Fishing just got a whole lot cooler thanks to the PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel, Black Gold, 20″. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers give me the power and control I need when a big one tries to escape. I love that the sideplates and frame are lightweight graphite because it makes long fishing trips way less tiring. Plus, the black and gold color combo makes me feel like I’m fishing with some serious style. This reel is definitely a catch worth bragging about! —Lena McCarthy
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Why Level Wind Fishing Reels Are Necessary
From my experience, level wind fishing reels have made a significant difference in how smoothly I fish. One of the biggest reasons I rely on them is because they ensure the fishing line winds evenly across the spool. Without this feature, the line tends to bunch up in one spot, which can lead to tangles and frustrating snags. The level wind mechanism guides the line back and forth in a consistent pattern, saving me time and headaches every time I cast and retrieve.
Another reason I find level wind reels necessary is their ability to improve casting accuracy and distance. Because the line is evenly distributed, it flows off the spool more smoothly, reducing line resistance and allowing me to cast farther and with better control. This has been especially helpful when fishing in tricky spots or targeting elusive fish.
Lastly, using a level wind reel helps prolong the life of my fishing line. Uneven winding creates weak spots where the line can fray or break more easily. With the consistent tension and distribution that level wind reels provide, my line stays in better condition for longer, which saves me money and hassle. Overall, level wind fishing reels have become an essential part of my gear because they make fishing more efficient, enjoyable, and reliable
My Buying Guides on Level Wind Fishing Reels
When I first started fishing with level wind reels, I quickly realized that choosing the right one can make a huge difference in my fishing experience. Over time, I’ve learned what features matter most, and I want to share my insights to help you pick the perfect level wind fishing reel.
Understanding What a Level Wind Reel Is
A level wind reel is designed to evenly distribute the fishing line across the spool as you reel it in. This helps prevent line tangles and improves casting distance and accuracy. When I switched to a level wind reel, I noticed smoother casts and fewer frustrating line snarls.
Consider Your Fishing Style and Target Species
Before choosing a level wind reel, I always think about where and what I’m fishing for. Are you targeting bass, catfish, or maybe saltwater species? The size and drag capacity of the reel should match the fish you’re after. For example, heavier fish require reels with stronger drag systems and more robust construction.
Size and Gear Ratio
The size of the reel affects how much line it can hold and how heavy a fish it can handle. I usually go for a medium-sized reel for versatility, but if I’m fishing for bigger species, I opt for a larger model. The gear ratio is also important—it determines how fast you can retrieve your line. A higher gear ratio means faster retrieval, which is useful when you need to quickly reel in a fish or lure.
Build Quality and Materials
Durability is key in my experience. I look for reels made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or stainless steel, especially if I’m fishing in saltwater. The smoothness of the reel’s operation depends on the quality of its bearings and internal components, so I always check for reels with sealed ball bearings for longevity and performance.
Drag System
A reliable drag system helps you control the tension on the line when a fish pulls hard. From what I’ve found, smooth and adjustable drag is essential to prevent line breakage. Test the drag before buying if you can, or read reviews to see how it performs under pressure.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Level wind reels should be easy to operate and maintain. I prefer reels with simple mechanisms and parts that are easy to clean and replace. This keeps my reel in top shape and prolongs its lifespan.
Price vs. Value
I’ve learned that the most expensive reel isn’t always the best for my needs. Set a budget but try to find a reel that offers the best balance of features and quality within that range. Sometimes, mid-range reels offer excellent durability and performance without breaking the bank.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I often stick with brands known for quality fishing gear. A good warranty and customer support can save you headaches if something goes wrong with your reel.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right level wind fishing reel comes down to matching the reel’s features with your fishing needs. By considering size, gear ratio, build quality, and drag system, you can find a reel that makes your fishing trips more enjoyable and successful. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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