Surfcasting Reel

A Surfcasting reel is part of the necessary gear to be able to practice fishing from the seashore. These reels for surfcasting fishing usually have very specific characteristics to allow you to cast far and to be able to fight powerful fish.

You will need to adapt your choice according to your preferred areas. The size of the spools can thus have a major impact if you fish from the beach or from a pier.

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The braking system will also be a choice criterion. You may come across small bass as well as large meagre or even very powerful rays. It will then be important to have a technology that is both smooth and very resistant.

The construction proposed by the brands should be at the center of all your attention. It is therefore necessary to keep in mind that unlike rods, you will have to deal with metal parts. Corrosion can quickly take over bearings or a frame for example.

That's why you will often see models proposed with parts in aluminum or magnesium to counter this effect. You wouldn't want your handle to break during a memorable fight with a very big fish.

Like all fishermen, you will need to trust a brand that distributes Surfcasting products. Shimano and Daiwa are major players in this technique, especially since we regularly use the same models for carp fishing.

You will then only have to choose your nylon line or your line and connect your rig. Wait to see your tip animate and count on the very good recovery of more than a meter of handle turn to quickly bring the fish to you.

Find our complete surfcasting selection:

Buying Guide: Choosing a Surfcasting Reel

The 6 points to check

Bearings & fluidity: smooth rotation for long casting/retrieving, despite sand and salt.
Ratio & recovery: aim for ≥ 80–100 cm per turn to manage the banner and lift the lead.
Capacity: 8000–14000 depending on diameters (e.g. 300–400 m in 0.30–0.40 mm).
Corrosion resistance: seals, treatments, protected bearings, aluminum/magnesium frame.
Weight & balance: 400–700 g on average; take care of the balance with the rod, comfortable handle.
Brake: progressive and powerful (12–20 kg) for bass, meagre, rays…

Spool & winding

Long cast with flared lips + slow oscillation/worm shaft to optimize line output.
Shallow/deep spools to adjust the diameter/ capacity according to the spot.

Nylon vs braid

Nylon 0.25–0.35 mm: comfort and tolerance on the beach.
Braid: less feeling/buoyancy; plan a nylon leader.

Our selection of surfcasting reels

For beginners (tight budget)

Daiwa Shorecast Surf

Large size, good capacity (e.g. ~370 m in 0.35), double oscillation winding, foldable aluminum handle. Front brake ~10 kg, surprisingly smooth rotation for the price.

Shimano BeastMaster XB (10000)

Aluminum spool 10000 (~400 m of 35/100), Instant Drag, A-RB bearing, ratio 4.6:1, ~100 cm/turn. A notch above in technologies while remaining accessible.

For the confirmed (best techno/price ratio)

Daiwa Emblem Surf SCW QD Type R

Magsealed protection against salt/sand, SCW (Slow Cross Wrap), QD brake, 2 additional spools provided to adjust diameter/capacity. Type-R finish for fine long cast.

Shimano Speedmaster (14000)

Anti-corrosion treatments, spool 14000 (~400 m of 40/100), brake ~20 kg, in-house technologies (X-Ship, AR-C Spool, Hi-Speed Drag, Super Slow Oscillation). An excellent compromise distance/reliability.

For experts (high-end)

Daiwa Basia Surf 2019 Type R

Zaion carbon frame/rotor for weight, advanced sealing, 3 spools (including shallow for fine fishing), CRBB bearings, very precise cross wrap, Quick Drag brake. “Long cast” reference.

Shimano Bull’s Eye 9120

Power and longevity: CI4+ to lighten without losing rigidity, Hagane Body + X-Ship, brake ~20 kg to manage large fish and rough sea. Designed to keep up the pace and fights.

FAQ – Surfcasting Reel

What size to choose?

8000–10000 for versatile use on beaches/piers; 12000–14000 to aim for distance and fish heavier.

What is slow oscillation?

A tight cross winding that improves line output when casting and reduces tangles.

What recovery to aim for?

At least ~80–100 cm per turn to take back the banner and lift the lead on long casts.

Nylon or braid?

Nylon 0.25–0.35 mm comfortable and tolerant; braid more direct but use a nylon leader.

How to limit corrosion?

Rinse with fresh water after each session, dry, light lubrication; prefer treated/sealed models.

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Surfcasting Reel

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