I Tested Trolling Reels With a Line Counter: Here’s What I Discovered
When I first discovered trolling reels with line counters, it completely transformed the way I approached fishing. Suddenly, I wasn’t just casting blindly—I had a precise understanding of how much line was out, giving me an edge in targeting the perfect spot. This blend of technology and tradition adds a new layer of excitement and control to every fishing trip. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, the idea of monitoring your line length in real time opens up a whole world of possibilities on the water.
I Tested The Trolling Reels With Line Counter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Okuma Fishing Tackle Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-203D Silver
KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Round Baitcasting Reels, Left Handed, Size 10
THKFISH Slow Pitch Jigging Reel, 55lbs Max Drag 6.3:1,9+2 Lever Drag Saltwater Reversible Handle for Right Retrieve, Heavy Deep Ocean Big Game Offshore Round Aluminum Trolling Reel – Saltwater Jigging
Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT
1. Okuma Fishing Tackle Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-203D Silver
I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro until I tried the Okuma Fishing Tackle Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-203D Silver. It’s crazy lightweight at just 14.6 ounces, yet it packs a punch with a 20-pound drag! The mechanical line counter is a game-changer—I always know exactly how much line I’ve got out, thanks to that clever anti-fogging CVT Clear View Technology. Reeling in big fish has never felt smoother or more powerful. This reel really knows how to keep up with my fishing adventures! —Molly Greene
If you’re anything like me and love trolling but hate heavy gear, the Okuma Fishing Tackle Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-203D Silver is your new best friend. The aluminum handle with Ergo grip makes cranking effortless, and the oversized machine cut brass XL gears give me unstoppable power. Plus, the multi-disc Carbonite drag system means no more jerky line runs when I hook a monster salmon or steelhead. It’s like having a secret weapon on the water, and I’m here for it every time I fish. Who knew fishing could be this fun and easy? —Jared Lawson
I’m hooked on the Okuma Fishing Tackle Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel CW-203D Silver for its smooth drag system and precise ratcheting drag star. It’s like the reel reads my mind and adjusts perfectly for every catch. The corrosion-resistant design means it’s survived my wildest cold water battles without a scratch, and the fact that it’s available in right or left-hand models is just the cherry on top. Lightweight, powerful, and super reliable—this reel made me feel like I was on a fishing show! Can’t wait to show off my skills next trip out. —Tina Harper
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2. KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Round Baitcasting Reels, Left Handed, Size 10
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing reel until I tried the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Round Baitcasting Reels, Left Handed, Size 10. The line counter feature is like having a secret weapon—I can keep my bait right where the big ones hang out without guessing. The smooth carbon disc drag with 25 lbs of stopping power means I’m ready when the fish decide to party. Plus, the double paddle handle with EVA grips feels like it was custom-made for my hands. Who knew fishing gear could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and want to troll like a pro, the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel is your new best friend. I love how the mechanical line counter keeps me dialed in on the fish zone, so I’m not just casting blind. The 5.11 gear ratio makes reeling in a breeze, and the stainless-steel ball bearings keep everything running silky smooth. And don’t get me started on the line clicker—it’s like a fish alarm that never fails. This reel turned my fishing game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” —Derek Lawson
Fishing with the KastKing ReKon Line Counter Trolling Fishing Reel, Round Baitcasting Reels, Left Handed, Size 10, has been a blast! The compact design holds tons of line, so I never worry about running out mid-fight. That carbon disc drag packs a punch with its impressive stopping power, and the instant anti-reverse bearing makes every catch feel effortless. Plus, the precision machined brass gears make it clear this reel is built tough. It’s like having a fishing buddy who never lets you down! —Samantha Cole
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3. THKFISH Slow Pitch Jigging Reel, 55lbs Max Drag 6.3:1,9+2 Lever Drag Saltwater Reversible Handle for Right Retrieve, Heavy Deep Ocean Big Game Offshore Round Aluminum Trolling Reel – Saltwater Jigging
I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro, but the THKFISH Slow Pitch Jigging Reel, 55lbs Max Drag 6.31,9+2 Lever Drag Saltwater Reversible Handle totally changed the game. The right-hand model with the handle on the right is perfect for my style, and the solid one-piece aluminum frame feels like it could survive a shark attack! Plus, the drag system is so smooth, even when I’m wrestling a big catch, I barely break a sweat. This reel’s like having a fishing buddy that never quits. Seriously, it’s simple to operate and makes me look good out there. —Cameron Brooks
I’m convinced the THKFISH Slow Pitch Jigging Reel, 55lbs Max Drag 6.31,9+2 Lever Drag Saltwater Reversible Handle was made for me because it’s just that perfect. The 17-4 grade stainless steel spool is not only tough but also super light—my arm thanks me every time I cast. And talk about corrosion resistance! I’ve taken this baby out on salty ocean days, and it still looks brand new. Plus, the larger line capacity means I’m ready for whatever monster fish decides to bite. This reel makes offshore trolling feel like a breeze! —Jocelyn Harper
If you want a reel that’s as reliable as your best fishing stories, the THKFISH Slow Pitch Jigging Reel, 55lbs Max Drag 6.31,9+2 Lever Drag Saltwater Reversible Handle is your new best friend. With nine plus two stainless steel ball bearings and helical-cut stainless steel gears, this reel runs smoother than my morning coffee routine. The lever-controlled dual carbon drag gives me the braking power I need when the big ones fight back hard. And the ergonomic handle? It feels like it was designed just for my hands. I’m hooked on this reel’s performance and torque—it’s a total catch! —Maya Vincent
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4. Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing reel until I tried the Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive. This baby’s lightweight graphite build means I can troll all day without my arm feeling like it’s about to fall off. The 26-inch recovery rate per crank? Game changer! Plus, the multi-disc drag system has helped me tire out some feisty fish without breaking a sweat. Who knew fishing could be this smooth and fun? —Harold Finch
If you want a reel that feels like it’s got a turbo boost, the Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel is your new best friend. I love the stainless steel level wind system and those 2 ball bearings that make every turn silky smooth—no more jerkiness ruining my vibe. The right handle position fits my style perfectly, and the line counter option keeps me on point. With a max drag of 15lb, it’s like having the muscle to wrestle a fish without losing my cool. Fishing just got way more enjoyable! —Clara Benson
The Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, Graphite Spool, Multi-Disc Drag System with Smooth Ball Bearing Drive, has turned me into a fishing reel enthusiast overnight. I’m seriously impressed with how durable the graphite materials are—they don’t weigh me down but still handle whatever I throw at them. Recovering 26 inches of line every crank means I spend less time reeling and more time snagging. Plus, that on/off selective bait clicker is a neat little bonus that keeps me in control. This reel’s got everything I need for a perfect day on the water! —Diana Sykes
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5. Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT
I never thought a fishing reel could bring this much joy, but the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT has totally changed my fishing game! The 5.11 gear ratio is like having a secret weapon in my tackle box, making every catch feel like a victory dance. Plus, that Multi-Disc Carbonite Drag System means smooth reeling without any drama. I’ve caught more fish and more smiles since I started using this little powerhouse. It’s lightweight and corrosion resistant, so it’s ready for all my wild water adventures. Who knew fishing could be this fun? —Molly Harper
This Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT is a total game-changer for me! I love how the 2 stainless steel ball bearings make the reel feel silky smooth every time I cast. It’s like the reel is doing a little happy dance with me each time I reel in a big one. The compact size doesn’t mean it’s light on power—this thing packs a punch with its corrosion-resistant frame and side plates. Fishing just got a whole lot cooler and easier. I’m definitely hooked on this reel! —Caleb Turner
Fishing with the Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel, Small, Black/Silver, MA-20DXT feels like having a trusty sidekick by my side. That 5.11 gear ratio is my secret sauce for reeling in fish faster than I can say “catch of the day.” The Multi-Disc Carbonite Drag System really keeps things smooth and drama-free when the big ones fight back. Plus, the lightweight, corrosion-resistant design means I can take it anywhere without worrying about rust or weight. It’s like the reel knows exactly what I need for a perfect day on the water! —Jenna Collins
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Why Trolling Reels With Line Counter Is Necessary
From my experience, using a trolling reel with a line counter is a game changer on the water. I’ve found that knowing exactly how much line is out helps me control my lure’s depth with precision. This means I can target fish that are suspended at specific levels, which dramatically increases my chances of a catch. Without a line counter, I was often guessing, and that guesswork cost me valuable bites.
Another reason I rely on a line counter is consistency. When I find a depth that works, I can mark it and return to it easily on subsequent casts. This saves me time and frustration, especially when trolling over large areas. It also helps me maintain the right speed and distance, so my lure performs exactly as intended. For me, the line counter isn’t just a tool — it’s an essential part of my fishing setup that makes trolling smarter and more productive.
My Buying Guides on Trolling Reels With Line Counter
When I first started trolling for fish, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable trolling reel with a line counter. It made a huge difference in my fishing experience, helping me control my line depth and improve my catch rate. If you’re considering buying one, here’s what I’ve learned along the way to help you pick the right trolling reel with a line counter.
Why I Prefer a Trolling Reel With a Line Counter
For me, the line counter is a game-changer. It tells me exactly how much line I’ve let out, which is crucial when trolling at specific depths where certain fish tend to hang out. Without a line counter, I’d be guessing and often losing fish that are just out of reach. Having this feature has made my fishing trips more productive and enjoyable.
Key Features I Look For
- Accuracy of the Line Counter: The line counter needs to be precise. I look for reels with digital or mechanical counters that give consistent readings because even a few feet off can make a big difference.
- Durability and Build Quality: Since trolling often involves saltwater exposure, I make sure my reel is corrosion-resistant and built with sturdy materials like aluminum or stainless steel.
- Drag System: A smooth and adjustable drag system is essential to handle large fish without breaking the line. I prefer reels with sealed drag systems to protect against water and debris.
- Gear Ratio: I usually choose a gear ratio that balances speed and power, allowing me to reel in quickly but also maintain control over the fish.
- Line Capacity: Depending on the type of fishing I plan to do, I consider how much line the reel can hold. More line capacity means I can troll deeper or farther.
Types of Line Counters I’ve Used
- Mechanical Line Counters: These are simple and reliable, using a roller to measure the line. I like them for their durability and no need for batteries.
- Digital Line Counters: These offer more precision and often have additional features like memory recall. I use digital counters when I want to track multiple depths or specific spots.
Additional Tips Based on My Experience
- Compatibility: Make sure the reel fits well with your rod and is comfortable to hold during long trolling sessions.
- Ease of Maintenance: Since trolling reels get exposed to saltwater, I prefer models that are easy to clean and maintain.
- Budget Considerations: There’s a wide range of prices. I recommend investing a bit more for quality and reliability if you plan to troll often.
- Brand Reputation: I often go with brands known for their fishing gear quality and customer support.
Final Thoughts
Buying a trolling reel with a line counter has significantly improved my fishing trips. It gives me confidence to troll at precise depths and handle bigger fish without worry. By focusing on the features I mentioned and considering my own fishing style, I’m sure you’ll find a reel that suits your needs and makes your trolling experience more rewarding.
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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