Jigging Reel Comparison - May 2026

Our Top 3 Picks
Here are the top 3 recommended products with more information to help you find the right product for you9.9
1SHIMANOSPEEDMASTER II
Why we love it
Smooth operation and easy to use.
Affordable quality comparable to high-end reels.
Strong low gear for hauling big fish.
Main highlights- PowerPro Line Capacity (lbs/yds): 50/580, 65/400, 80/355
- Mono Line Capacity (lbs/yds): 20/250, 25/280, 30/230
- Max Drag: 40lbs | Weight: 25.7oz | Bearings: 4
- Line Retrieve per Crank (inches) - 42 / 23
- Gear Ratio - 5.7:1 / 3.1:1
9.8
2SHIMANOShimano 21 Ocea Jigger 2001NRXG (LeftHanded) Fishing Jigging Reel
Why we love it
Robust construction: Hagane Body X Protect for strength durability.
Smooth performance: Micromodule Gear Long crank handle for jigging.
Precise control: 7 Gear Ratio 10kg Max Drag for accuracy.
Main highlights- The SHIMANO OCEA Jigger represents the very best in SHIMANO reel technology, featuring Micromodule Gear, Hagane Body and X-Protect for the ultimate in strength and durability
- SHIMANO 21 Ocea Jigger 2001NRXG (LeftHanded) Model Fishing Jigging Reel
- Model: 2001NRXG Left Handed Model, Gear Ratio: 7, Max Drag: 10kg, Spool Diameter (mm)/width (mm): 60/25, Thread Winding Amount PE (No.-m): 3-400 / 4-300 / 5-220, Maximum hosting length (cm/handle 1 rotation): 132/132, Number of bearing BB/roller: 8/1
- Japan Domestic Market, JDM Fishing Tackle Gear
- Designed for jigging applications, a specially designed forged long crank handle provides anglers with the ability to work a jig down deep and fight a fish with unprecedented ease.
9.7
3DaiwaDaiwa SALTIST20H Saltist Star Drag Saltwater Casting Reel, Size 20, 6.4: 1 Gear Ratio, 5 Bearings, 39.50" Retrieve Rate, Right Hand Black
Why we love it
17 25lb drag pressure.
Anodized aluminum for corrosion resistance.
4 CRBBs roller bearing.
Main highlights- Maximum drag pressure from 17 to 25-pounds, well suited for braided line
- Line Capacity (Lb. Test / Yards)-MONO: 14/350, 20/210, J-BRAID: 40/330, 50/260
- Built from machined aluminum with an anodized finish for greater corrosion resistance
- 6.4:1 gear ratio
- 4 CRBB ball bearings and a roller bearing
Jigging Reel Buyer's Guide
Written by Dan GibsonIntroduction to Jigging Reel
A jigging reel is a type of fishing reel designed to be used for jigging, a technique of fishing that involves dropping lures and baits to deeper waters. It is an essential part of a jigging setup, as it helps to retrieve the lure and line at the right speed and depth. A good jigging reel should be lightweight, with a powerful gear ratio, and a comfortable handle. When choosing a jigging reel, it is important to consider the type of fish you intend to target, the size of the reel, and the power of the reel’s drag system. Additionally, the material used to construct the reel should also be taken into consideration.
Types of Jigging Reel
There are several different types of jigging reels available on the market. Spinning reels are the most common type, and are best suited for targeting smaller fish. These reels are typically lightweight and easy to handle, and feature a line-in-spool design, allowing for quick and easy casting. Baitcasting reels are also popular for jigging, and are best suited for targeting larger fish. These reels feature a levelwind system, which helps to keep the line in the spool, and offer more power than spinning reels. Finally, electric jigging reels are becoming increasingly popular. These reels are powered by electric motors, allowing for precise and accurate jigging, and are great for targeting larger fish.
Size of Jigging Reel
The size of the jigging reel should depend on the size of the fish you intend to target. Smaller reels are best suited for targeting smaller fish, while larger reels are better suited for targeting larger fish. Additionally, it is important to consider the size of the reel in relation to the size of your rod. If the reel is too big or too small for the rod, it could cause the rod to be unbalanced, resulting in an uncomfortable fishing experience.

Gear Ratio
The gear ratio of a jigging reel is an important factor to consider when choosing a reel. A higher gear ratio means that the reel will retrieve the line at a faster rate, allowing for quicker and more efficient jigging. Conversely, a lower gear ratio will help to slow down the retrieval of the line, allowing for more precise control. It is important to note that the gear ratio is usually indicated on the side of the reel.
Drag System
The drag system of a jigging reel is also an important factor to consider. The drag system determines how much resistance the reel will have when retrieving the lure and line. A good drag system should be able to provide the right amount of resistance for the target species, as well as for the size of the lure and line. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the drag system is adjustable, as this allows for more precise control.
Reel Materials
The material used to construct a jigging reel is also an important factor to consider. The most common materials used are aluminum and graphite. Aluminum is a durable and lightweight material, and is a popular choice for smaller reels. Graphite is also lightweight, but is more flexible and offers more sensitivity than aluminum. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the reel has a corrosion-resistant finish, as this will help to ensure the longevity of the reel.

Our ranking system
At bestchoice.com, our team curates a selection of top products from a vast array available online, using a sophisticated ranking system based on carefully defined criteria.While traditional hands-on testing has its merits, our use of AI technology offers distinct advantages. AI allows us to process and analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view that goes beyond what manual testing can achieve. This approach enables us to deliver insights that are aligned with current trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our reviews are both relevant and up-to-date.












