Electric fishing reels changed deep-water fishing forever. What used to mean hand-cranking hundreds of feet of line now happens at the push of a button. And if you're targeting fish in 500+ feet of water, an electric reel isn't just convenient - it's basically essential.
What is an Electric Fishing Reel?
An electric fishing reel is a motorized reel that retrieves line automatically using battery power. Push a button, and the motor cranks for you!
They're designed to handle deep drop fishing where manual retrieval would be exhausting. Think swordfish at 1,000 feet or queen snapper at 600 feet.
Key components:
- Electric motor for the retrieve
- Rechargeable battery pack (electric fishing reel battery)
- Manual override for backup
- Digital depth counter
The motor doesn't fight the fish for you - you still play it and use drag. It just handles bringing the line up from depth.
How Does an Electric Fishing Reel Work?
The electric reel runs off a power source - either a built-in rechargeable battery or one that connects externally.
Basic operation:
- Press the retrieve button, and the motor engages
- Speed control adjusts how fast the line comes in
- Release the button to fight the fish manually
- The battery indicator shows remaining power
Essentially, you can switch between electric and manual modes. If the battery dies, flip to manual and crank by hand.
What Type of Fishing Are Electric Reels Best For?
Electric fishing reels excel at specific types of fishing where depth is a factor.
Best applications:
- Deep drop fishing for tilefish, swordfish, and grouper (400-1,500 feet)
- Bottom fishing in deep water for snappers and reef fish
- Kite fishing for sailfish and marlin
- Commercial fishing, where you're pulling lines all day
They're overkill for shallow water. Save your money and stick with conventional reels for anything under 200 feet.
Electric Reel vs. Conventional Reel
The main difference is noticeable: one has a motor, the other doesn't.
Electric fishing reel advantages:
- Zero arm fatigue on deep drops
- Consistent retrieve speed
- Digital depth tracking
Conventional reel advantages:
- Much cheaper ($100-300 vs. $800-2,000)
- No batteries to charge
- Lighter weight
- Better feel during the fight
Bottom line: If you're regularly fishing deeper than 300 feet, electric reels are worth it. Otherwise, conventional reels save you serious cash.
What are the Best Electric Fishing Reel Options?
Several reel brands dominate the electric market…
Daiwa Tanacom Series
The Daiwa Tanacom line offers solid mid-range options. The Tanacom 1200 handles most deep drop situations ($900-1,500 range).
Shimano Beastmaster
Shimano's electric reels compete directly with Daiwa's. They're known for durability and smooth operation with strong drag systems!
Electric Fishing Reel Battery Considerations
The reel battery makes or breaks your fishing day. Run out of power at depth, and you're hand-cranking everything up.
Battery life factors:
- Depth you're fishing (deeper = more battery drain)
- Fish size and number of drops
- Retrieve speed settings
Most fishing reel batteries last 8-12 hours of normal use. Bring a backup battery for all-day trips.
Are Electric Reels Worth the Money?
Electric fishing reels cost serious money - $600-2,500 just for the reel.
You need one if:
- You fish deeper than 400 feet regularly
- You're targeting deep-dwelling species
- Physical limitations make hand-cranking difficult
Skip it if:
- You mainly fish shallow to moderate depths
- Budget is tight
- You fish deep occasionally (rent or borrow)
One full day of deep drop fishing will convince you that the investment's worth it.
Read Next: Tips for Renting a Fishing Boat
Electric Fishing Reels Q&A
Q: What is the best electric fishing reel for deep drop fishing?
The best electric fishing reel for deep drop fishing depends on your budget and target depth. Daiwa Seaborg models offer top performance for serious anglers fishing 500+ feet. The Daiwa Tanacom 1200 offers excellent value for deep-drop fishing. Both handle bringing fish up from serious depths.
Q: How long does an electric fishing reel battery last?
An electric fishing reel battery typically lasts 8-12 hours of normal fishing use. Battery life depends on fishing depth, number of drops, and fish size. Deeper water drains batteries faster. Bring a backup battery for all-day trips.
Q: Can you use an electric reel manually?
Yes, all quality electric fishing reels include manual override capability. If your battery dies or you want more control, switch to manual mode and crank by hand. You're never stuck if the motor fails.
