Best Ice Fishing Reels of 2024


a man out ice fishing with a quality ice fishing reel

Looking for a new ice fishing reel for the upcoming season? Our ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN Fishing Experts break down which type of ice fishing reel you’ll need—spinning or inline—as well as offer their recommendations for the best ice fishing reels of 2023. No matter if you’re a beginner angler or experienced, our best ice fishing reel suggestions offer something for every skill level.

Spinning vs. Inline Ice Reels

Before selecting your next (or first) reel, it’s important to understand which type of ice fishing reel works best for you. If you're just learning how to ice fish, a spinning ice fishing reel is a good option because they can handle a variety of different ice fishing techniques, sizes, and species of fish, and they generally cost less too. For those who have some experience, an inline ice fishing reel is a great choice because you’re able to perfect your jigging technique as well as enjoy a bit more durability when on the ice.

Best Spinning Ice Fishing Reels

Pflueger President

a product image of the pflueger president reel

With the Pflueger President Spinning Reel, the most notable feature from customers and our Ice Fishing Experts alike is the super smooth retrieve all thanks to the 10 ball bearing system (size 20 feature 7).

Additional Highlights:

Okuma Ceymar Baitfeeder

a product image of the okuma ceymar baitfeeder reel

Many customers enjoy using the Okuma Ceymar Baitfeeder Spinning Reel as part of their deadstick setup. Featuring a unique bait-feeding system, anglers are able to disengage the spool to run the bait freely in order to entice the fish to strike.

5-Star Customer Review:

“I own several and love them all. This is a good ice reel for the money. Love the baitfeeder option for deadsticking walleye and pike on the 1000 series.” ~ Dan M.

ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN Outfitters Pro Angler

a product image of the scheels outfitters pro angler ice reel

For those wanting a quality reel at a value price point, choose the ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN Outfitters Pro Angler Spinning Reel. Made from ported aluminum, this ice reel is durable and lightweight, while the defrost reel lubricant prevents freezing down to -60° F.

13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Carbon

a product image of the 13 fishing black betty freefall carbon reel

Featuring the FreeFall trigger, the 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Carbon Inline Ice Fishing Reel allows anglers to hit just the right depth in order to maximize opportunities. Plus, if your fish is fighting hard, the carbon drag system allows the reel to let more line out to prevent your line from breaking. If you’re looking for a premium inline ice reel, the Black Betty FreeFall Carbon is your best pick!

Additional Highlights:

  • EVA tech knobs
  • Instant Stop anti-reverse
  • Lightweight carbon frame
  • Magnetic drop speed adjustment

Clam Spooler Elite

a product image of the clam spooler elite ice reel

New this season!

For those days on the ice where the fish are shy and finicky, choose to use the Clam Spooler Elite Inline Ice Fishing Reel. Thanks to the spooler reel, the line has less of a coiling effect so that anglers can feel even the lightest of bites.

13 Fishing Descent Aluminum

a product image of the 13 fishing decent aluminum ice reel

New this season!

If you’re looking for an all-around ice reel that’s budget-friendly, then the new 13 Fishing Descent Aluminum Inline Ice Fishing Reel is for you. Now featuring a fully machined aluminum spool, this inline ice reel offers increased drop speed with zero line twists. This will help you present your bait in a more natural way to encourage even more strikes!

Whether you’re looking for an ice fishing spinning reel or an inline reel, our Experts’ picks for the best ice fishing reels are a great place to start. If you have additional questions about which type of ice fishing reel you should invest in, be sure to contact an Ice Fishing Expert at your nearest ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN location.