Last updated on July 26th, 2019 at 10:31 am
Any muskie fisherman knows that one of the best ways to fish for muskies is by trolling. However, trolling for muskies is quite a bit different than casting for musky, and trolling requires slightly different tackle. Using the best musky reel for trolling could make all the difference when it comes to your fishing success.
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Best Musky Reel For Trolling Key Features
When it comes to trolling, the best musky reel for the money will have upgraded gears and other components, in order to handle the greater strain that is placed upon the reel when trolling. When a muskie hits the bait while trolling, a tremendous amount of force is exerted onto the reel. Having stronger gears reduces the chances of a malfunction and also increases the lifespan of the musky reel.
Often times, the best musky reel for the money for trolling also have larger handles, which make them easier to reel in without having to stop the boat. This extra cranking power is critical when you need to check on one of your baits, because it means that you don’t need to stop trolling with the other lines that you may have in the water.
Some musky trolling reels come with built-in line counters. These make it super easy to know how much line you have out at any given time. This makes it convenient to try different lines and different distances.
Best Musky Reel For Trolling – Shimano Tranx
While it is technically a baitcasting reel, the Shimano Tranx is also regarded as one of the best musky reels for trolling. There isn’t a muskie reel with a more solid gear system that was designed for handling the excessive strain from trolling and fighting muskies.

The Tranx also features a larger handle making it easier to crank in when trolling or casting. The sheer power of this musky reel can’t be matched. And with proper care, this muskie reel should last you a lifetime.
Best Muskie Reels For Trolling – Daiwa Lexa
A great second option for a muskie reel for trolling is the Daiwa Lexa. The Lexa comes in both left and right-handed versions. Many muskie anglers are partial to the Daiwa Lexa 400. The Lexa has the perfect combination of speed, comfort, and power to make it the “go to” muskie reel for many professional muskie fishermen.

The Lexa features 25 pounds of drag pressure and extremely precise gearing. The Lexa can hold up to 200 yards of 80-pound braid line, which makes it a superb muskie trolling reel. Featuring its Magforce cast-control, the Lexa makes trolling or casting any size lure a cinch.
Best Musky Reels For Trolling Conclusion
While the Tranx and Lexa are our two favorite muskie reels for trolling, there are also a few other good options there. Perhaps we will explore those in a future article. Until then, you can find loads more information, including reel reviews over at TigerMuskie.net. They are a great resource for all things muskie fishing. Whenever we are in the market for some new muskie gear, we always check them out first.