10 Best Feeder Fishing Reels in 2025: A Total Fishing Tackle Review
- By Andy Grenfell
- |
- 5 February 2022
Nothing ruins a fishing trip faster than a poor-quality fishing reel. It would be best if you had something ready for whatever comes your way for your day out by the water. But narrowing the wide selection down to the best reels for you, your budget, and your style of feeder fishing can be difficult. We've compiled a list of the best feeder fishing reels with everything you need to know for each so that you can quickly identify which reel you will like best. Check out our list so that you can spend less time shopping and more time fishing!
1. Best for Competitive Sports: Daiwa 20 Tournament Reel
For those out there who are ready to win, you can't go wrong with the Daiwa 20 Tournament reel. With its aluminium body, it is sturdy enough to bring in your biggest catch.
This product has everything you would want from the Daiwa brand, with all their best features coming together. And with it being the perfect fit for both left and right-handed fishing pros, it's an excellent choice for everyone.
PROS
- Metal body — Your reels will stay alive longer with more sustained power.
- 3 spools included - No matter what kind of fishing is on deck next, you're ready with another spool to take on the newest challenge.
CONS
- No line counter — While this may be important for those trolling, this probably won't be missed for anyone focused on one target.
- Three ball bearings — Most products from Daiwa feature four, but this one only has three.
2. Best for Lightweight Fishing: Daiwa 20 Legalis LT Reel
Are you looking for one of the lightest reels on the market without losing out on a durable, tough reel? It's time to try the Legalis LT.
The Legalis LT is one of Daiwa’s most affordable and lightest-weight pieces, and it doesn't compromise on power. With its carbon lite material, it's lightweight with smooth mechanics.
PROS
- Daiwa Digigear technology — More and deeper cuts in the mechanisms mean the gears mesh better, giving you a lot of power, even with lightweight material.
- ATD drag — Automatic tournament drag means you get more support across the entire shaft length while reducing the pulsing of the drag without the need for starting resistance.
CONS
- No direct drive — Because the handle attaches to a piece on the other hand rather than a direct, internal drive, the extra piece will wear down faster and may need replacing or repairs.
- Single handle only — For those who prefer a double handle option, it's not available at this time.
3. Best for Powerful Distances: Daiwa 20 N'ZON Distance 25
It's time to go the distance without losing out on the power you need for your biggest catch yet. Without breaking the bank, you get the most power for medium to long distances.
With a lower ratio for easier winding and a larger spool for better distance casting, this Daiwa 20 N’ZON may be what you need to start your first adventure in distance fishing.
PROS
- Two line clips — Set the release you want every time at two different clips for more effective, faster fishing.
- Infinite anti-reverse — Never lose a line when trying to reel in a catch ever again.
CONS
- Heavier total weight — If you're looking for the lightest weight reels, this may not be your choice. However, weight is a part of what allows you to get lots of power far away.
- Graphite body and rotor — Although incredibly strong, it is more sensitive than aluminium. Avoid sharp jerks that may apply too much pressure.
4. Best for Eye-Catching Design: Daiwa 20 Crossfire Black Gold
If you love the look of these colourful reels, it's time to buy the Daiwa 20 Crossfire. It offers three sizing options, making it suitable for various anglers. You can easily find the best size for your fishing trip and start reeling in the fish while admiring the aesthetics of the powerful Crossfire.
But hurry now — with these limited-time colour options, you don't have long to add these beauties to your collection.
PROS
- Multiple colour options — These limited-time colours include red & black, gold & black, or black & black.
- Twistbuster II — With its improved design to keep your line from twisting, enjoy casting rather than worrying about your line.
CONS
- Low gear ratio — Although the 5.3.1 gear ratio isn't ideal for those looking for faster pulls, it's a great ratio for beginners and baits that pull hard and require a slower reel.
- Colours are limited-time offers — Colours are only available while supplies last. So if you spot one that you love, the time to act is now, or you may miss out.
5. Best for Lightweight Distance: Daiwa 19 Cast'izm Feeder 25QD
Want a small, lightweight reel that goes the distance? Look no further than the Cast'izm line.
Made up of the toughest materials, advanced spool geometry design, and all the best classic features from Daiwa, you can't go wrong if you want to go far.
PROS
- Zaion body — Designed by Daiwa to be stronger than aluminium but lighter, it is one of the best materials available.
- Manual Bail — It seems that the best reels these days have manual bail, and the Cast'izm line is no different. Don't let an automatic bail cause problems with premature closures. Opt instead for manual bail and precision handling that puts you in control.
CONS
- Higher price — This is in the higher price category of the Daiwa brand but an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best in distance fishing.
- Rapid drag — An excellent choice for anyone ready to go fast, but it might be too fast for some.
6. Best for Overall Performance: Shimano Match Stradic FL Reel
Perhaps you don't enjoy just one type of fishing. If that's true, you want a reel that can come along for a variety of adventures.
With the Stradic FL reel, you're getting the variety you need. It offers a good gear ratio, versatility, and outstanding durability. Suffice it to say that this reel is an excellent choice for everyone.
PROS
- Water protection — Sealed to ensure water does not become trapped in the reel.
- No felt washers — This means less cleaning for you and a longer life for your reel.
CONS
- Heavier design — It's not perfect for those looking for the lightest option.
- Hard to find — This is one of the most popular reels due to its versatility, causing it to often be out of stock. If you want this one, buy it when you see it.
7. Best for Quick and Light Fishing: Shimano Match Vanquish FB Reel
If you want a classic, quiet day on the shore, you want to hear the sounds of nature, not a spinning reel. It's why so many anglers enjoy the silent drive of the Vanquish FB reel from Shimano.
This product is excellent for light fishing techniques and comes with the high-end reel features you need. If you want a light reel for an effortless catch, you can't go wrong with Shimano.
PROS
- Quick response — Don't let a single nibble go unnoticed. With high sensitivity and light rotation, bring every fish in without fail.
- Versatility — Although the perfect choice for light fishing due to its high sensitivity, the Vanquish comes in a wide variety of sizes and is strong enough to handle a range of techniques.
CONS
- Higher price — With so much power and many benefits, it's going to cost you more. Although it is one of the more expensive, it also has many features and a great design.
- Smaller handle — For those who like a lot of space for holding, the handle may be a bit on the small side.
8. Best for Extreme Distance: Preston Extremity Feeder 620 Reel
For those who want the longest cast possible, the Preston Extremity line has what you're looking for and at an affordable cost.
With an extra-wide spool and casts up to 100m, this could be the perfect start for any first-time distance fishing for beginners.
PROS
- Larger option — If you want a distance reel from Preston with a larger piece and more to grab onto, you'll love this design.
- Affordable distance reel from Preston — This reel is a great place to start if you want to give the Preston brand a try while on a budget.
CONS
- 4:6:1 gear ratio — This is on the slower side for many. But for those with distance in front of their mind, speed shouldn't be too much of a factor.
- Single handle only — Although some may prefer a double-handled option, tests show that this is better for stability when fishing for distance.
9. Best for Distance Fishing Upgraded: Preston Intensity Feeder Reel
Love the Preston Extremity, but just want more from your reel? You want the Preston Intensity Feeder. Get the same essential quality, but with far more features and power.
PROS
- Power drive — Reeling for long distances? Get a helping hand from the power drive gears.
- Aluminium handle — This reel is tough enough to stand up to any fish.
CONS
- Limited Use — This isn't a versatile option for shorter casts and is better for long distances.
- Right-hand orientation — While possible to use left-handed, it may be less comfortable than other designs.
10. Best for Smoothest Casts: Daiwa 19 TDM Reel
Enjoy a line you'll want to cast and bring in again and again. If you've experienced previous versions of the TDM line, it's time to give it another try.
With excellent upgrades, the TDM has become one of the best on the market from Daiwa at a reasonable price tag.
PROS
- ABS spool — This will ensure you end up with a smoother cast and fewer twists.
- Extra-large anti-reverse — Retrieve with confidence knowing the lever is easy to grab in crucial moments.
CONS
- Best for saltwater — If you love saltwater fishing, this is a great choice but not ideal for those in freshwater.
- Plastic clips — For those who prefer metal clips, these are easy enough to exchange.
Pros
- ABS spool — This will ensure you end up with a smoother cast and fewer twists.
- Extra-large anti-reverse — Retrieve with confidence knowing the lever is easy to grab in crucial moments.
Cons
- Best for saltwater — If you love saltwater fishing, this is a great choice but not ideal for those in freshwater.
- Plastic clips — For those who prefer metal clips, these are easy enough to exchange.
Conclusion
Ready to find the reel of your dreams? Select one of the best reels of the year, and have a great time by the water. Whether you want a simple reel for long distances or the most features for your shorter casts, there's something for you. Shop these reels and more now.
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