Best Fishing Reels For Lake Erie Walleye
On Lake Erie's fall pattern, your reel is half the tool. You chase walleye deep in the Western Basin and school up in the Central, and you need gear that stays smooth in cold water and hauls when the bite tightens. This roundup cuts through the noise with real-world Erie performance—trolling, jigging, and ice-season use—so you can pick a reel that fits your season and depth targets. From rugged Megatron strength to versatile Centrons and a ready-to-go Shakespeare combo, here’s what actually works on the Erie water.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Lake Erie Fishing
Best Walleye Combo: Shakespeare® Wild Series Walleye Combo
$84.98 — Check price on Amazon →
Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- Shakespeare® Wild Series Walleye Combo
- Summer and Centron Spinning Reels, 12 +1 BB Light Weight & Ultra Smooth Reel for Ice/Summer 3000/1000 Fishing Reel by QINGLER
- KastKing Centron & Centron Lite Spinning Reels, Size 500 is Perfect for Ice Fishing, Up to 17.5 Max Drag, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, Ultra Smooth Powerful, CNC Aluminum Spool, 9+1 BB Light Weight
- OriGlam Fly Fishing Reel Fishing Wheel, Fly Ice Fishing Reel Spinning Fishing Reels, Powerful Lightweight Spinning Reels for Freshwater Saltwater
- KastKing Brutus Spinning Reel, Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reels, Graphite Frame, CNC Aluminum Spool, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, 4+1 Ball Bearings
- KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel, Freshwater and Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel, Rigid Aluminum Frame 7+1 Double-Shielded Stainless-Steel BB, Over 30 lbs. Carbon Drag, CNC Aluminum Spool & Handle
- KastKing Centron & Centron Lite Spinning Reels, Size 500 is Perfect for Ice Fishing, Up to 17.5 Max Drag, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, Ultra Smooth Powerful, CNC Aluminum Spool, 9+1 BB Light Weight
- EZ Reel Fishing Kit – Pocket Size Handline Fishing Reel | Ultimate Compact Rodless Reel Fishing Kit for Hiking, Outdoors, and Adventure.
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- Cold-water durability and predictable drag win Erie battles—Megatron's 30+ lb carbon drag and CNC aluminum spool give you the bite control you need for big walleye and hearty perch on fall runs.
- For ice jigging, Centron 500 and Centron Lite deliver smooth retrieves and solid stopping power—9+1 bearings, 5.2:1 gear, and up to 17.5 lb drag, built around a CNC aluminum spool for reliable vertical jigging in 20–60 ft of Erie water.
- Versatile enough for both ice and open-water seasons, the Centron family lets you run a light, compact setup that covers Central Basin shallows and Western Basin mid‑depth troll days.
- For heavy trolling or rockpile jigging, Brutus offers a graphite frame with CNC spool and solid gear, while Megatron’s rigid aluminum frame handles long days and tougher bites with confidence.
- Shakespeare Wild Series Walleye Combo provides a dependable open-water package straight out of the box, and the EZ Reel pocket adds a compact, backcountry option when space and weight matter on the boat.
Our Top Picks
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Shakespeare® Wild Series Walleye Combo
🏆 Best For: Best Walleye Combo
Best Walleye Combo earns its position with a durable, responsive Shakespeare Wild Series setup that pairs a solid reel with a sensitive rod at a sub-$85 price. For Lake Erie, especially the Western Basin, you want gear that keeps pace through fall patterns and tournament pressure. You’ll feel the balance when you’re trolling offshore structure or dropping jigs along weed edges and hitting the bite in 20 to 40 feet. It endures cold water, long days, and the steady rod work Erie demands.
Key features and real-world benefits come through in fast, practical ways. Smooth retrieve and dependable drag let you ride the strike on both deep trolling and vertical jigging. The rod responds quickly to light jigs and spoons, giving you precise control as you read the sonar and stay in the bite. Built to endure Erie’s winter prep and back-to-back trips, this combo stays balanced when you lean into a fish and resets fast for the next cast.
If you’re building a go-to Erie spread on a budget, this is a solid pick. It shines in the Western Basin during fall patterns when walleye and perch move shallower and bite becomes a rhythm of short hops and long drifts. Use it for 30–60 feet on a trolling plan or lead-core setup, and switch to vertical jigging in 15–40 feet when the bite tightens. It’s also a practical ice-season option for light jigs if you want a versatile backup that travels well.
Honest drawbacks keep expectations grounded. Not a flagship performer for brutal, marathon days. Line capacity is modest for deep-water or larger baits in the Central Basin. It isn’t designed for heavy saltwater use, so you’ll want to treat it as a Lake Erie specialist and maintain it accordingly. If you chase top-tier durability or premium components, you’ll outgrow this, but for value and versatility on Erie, it earns its keep.
✅ Pros
- Great value for Erie setups
- Smooth drag for walleye jigging
- Balanced feel for trolling
❌ Cons
- Limited line capacity for deep water
- Not designed for heavy tournament abuse
- Key Ingredient: Solid graphite rod with durable reel
- Scent Profile: Not applicable to reels
- Best For: Best Walleye Combo
- Size / Volume: Compact, boat-friendly setup
- Special Feature: Under-$90 value for Erie days
-
Summer and Centron Spinning Reels, 12 +1 BB Light Weight & Ultra Smooth Reel for Ice/Summer 3000/1000 Fishing Reel by QINGLER
🏆 Best For: All-Season Lightweight Reel
What earns this reel the All-Season Lightweight Reel designation is its field-tested balance of minimal weight and dependable cold-water performance. On Western Basin days you’ll appreciate how the 12+1 ball bearings deliver smooth retrieves even after hours of trolling with planner boards. The compact 3000/1000 size and light frame give you enough torque for walleye and perch without wearing your forearm down. It stays dependable from spring jigging through late fall trolling.
The lightweight graphite body pairs with a robust aluminum spool, delivering a tight, wind-resisting lay that keeps line control when you need it. Cold-water durability is noticeable; it casts and retrieves with minimal grit, and the drag is predictable for sub-2 to 6 lb walleye pulls. On the troll, the reel tracks smoothly and the 12+1 bearing system minimizes spool vibration, making it easy to stay locked onto marks in Erie’s rolling water.
This one’s for the veteran who wants a versatile spare that won’t break the bank but still delivers in a pinch. If you chase Western and Central Basin walleye patterns, plan for fall depth and perch in 30-60 ft, this reel fits your rig. Use it for slow-troll or tight-line jigging in 15-40 ft; it also serves ice anglers who want light, reliable performance for perch and panfish.
Drawbacks? It’s not built like premium gear. Spool capacity is modest for heavy lines, and the drag and overall construction are basic at this price, so treat it as a backup or guest-rod reel rather than a primary tournament workhorse.
✅ Pros
- 12+1 bearings ensure smooth retrieves
- Extremely light for all-day comfort
- Budget backup with solid performance
❌ Cons
- Spool capacity limited for heavy line
- Basic drag and build quality
- Key Ingredient: 12+1 BBs, light graphite frame
- Scent Profile: Coating resists lake spray
- Best For: All-Season Lake Erie trolling/jigging
- Size / Volume: 3000/1000 sizes available
- Special Feature: Ultra-smooth retrieve, budget-friendly
-
KastKing Centron & Centron Lite Spinning Reels, Size 500 is Perfect for Ice Fishing, Up to 17.5 Max Drag, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, Ultra Smooth Powerful, CNC Aluminum Spool, 9+1 BB Light Weight
🏆 Best For: Ice Fishing Power
What earns this reel the Best Ice Fishing Lightweight position is its deadly balance of featherweight feel and ironclad cold-water performance for Lake Erie. You can pair the Centron 500 with a compact jigging rod and stay responsive on Western Basin ice where a gust can bite your knuckles. The 17.5-pound max drag gives you the bite you need on a vertical jig or a fast drop when walleyes are chasing bait at 15 to 40 feet, and the reel stays smooth as you work the fall pattern into deeper holes or perch hotspots.
Key features and real-world benefits come through when you’re on the ice. With a 5.2:1 gear ratio, you can slow-roll 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jigs or spoons without losing bite. The 9+1 ball bearings keep cranking smooth, day after day, and the CNC aluminum spool sheds weight while resisting cold-induced stiffness. You’ll appreciate the compact form during long sessions and glove work, and the $26.99 price makes it a no-brainer as a primary or backup ice reel for Erie trips.
Who should buy this and when? If you’re an Erie regular who wants a dedicated ice-fishing setup or you’re stocking a spare reel for fall perch bites and early-winter walleye, this is a solid pick. It shines on jigging, drop-shot verticals, and quick retrieves from 25 to 40 feet in Central Basin humps and weedlines. Use 6–10 lb line, tie small jigs, and you’ll stay in the bite without the extra weight dragging you down in the wind.
The main caveat is line capacity at 500 size—watch capacity with heavier jigs or long drops. The handle can feel a touch small with bulky gloves, and this reel isn’t built for heavy trolling or brackish-water deployments. Clean it and dry it after use to keep corrosion at bay through Erie’s damp, cold days.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-lightweight for long ice sessions
- Smooth 9+1 bearing action
- Adequate drag for Erie walleye
❌ Cons
- Small handle with thick gloves
- Limited line capacity (Size 500)
- Key Ingredient: CNC Aluminum Spool
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best Ice Fishing Lightweight
- Size / Volume: Size 500
- Special Feature: 9+1 Bearings, Ultra Smooth
-
OriGlam Fly Fishing Reel Fishing Wheel, Fly Ice Fishing Reel Spinning Fishing Reels, Powerful Lightweight Spinning Reels for Freshwater Saltwater
🏆 Best For: Best for Freshwater-Saltwater
This reel earns the Best for Freshwater-Saltwater badge because it blends ultra-light handling with rugged reliability you can count on in Lake Erie's extremes. It handles Western Basin fall jigging and light trolling without fuss, and it stands up to wash-downs after days on the boat. For a veteran captain, that's a rare combination at this price.
Iits core features are a featherweight body, a smooth, predictable drag, and a corrosion-resistant finish that shrugs off cold-water abuse. On the water, that means easy line release for perch in 20-40 feet and solid, controlled retrieves when you’re cranking light walleye rigs. Pair it with 6-12 lb mono or 15-20 lb braid for flexible trolling or jigging, and it handles 1/8-3/8 oz jigs without extra fuss.
Who should buy this and when: savvy Erie anglers needing a budget backup, especially for fall Western Basin action on perch and walleye, as well as ice anglers chasing tight, responsive equipment. It’s ideal as a second rod for guests or a lightweight trolling setup, or as a back-up reel that travels with you from ice to boat. Use it at 15-40 ft for perch and 25-60 ft for walleye, with light spoons, blade baits, or slow-roller harnesses at 1-2 mph in calm seas, ramping up to 2-3 mph when the chop picks up.
Cons: Drag doesn’t match top-tier reels, so don’t lean on it for heavy, big-walleye battles. The finish and hardware feel a notch below premium gear, and the small reel size isn’t ideal for long, high-speed runs or stiff line setups.
✅ Pros
- Budget-friendly backup reel with solid smooth drag
- Lightweight, easy handling for perch and jigging
- Corrosion-resistant design handles freshwater-saltwater use
❌ Cons
- Limited drag capacity for heavy walleye rigs
- Quality control varies at this price
- Key Ingredient: Durable lightweight spool
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best for Freshwater-Saltwater
- Size / Volume: Small-to-mid, fits in hand
- Special Feature: Corrosion-resistant bearings for Erie weather
-
KastKing Brutus Spinning Reel, Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reels, Graphite Frame, CNC Aluminum Spool, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, 4+1 Ball Bearings
🏆 Best For: Best Budget Durability
This reel earns Best Budget Durability because it stands up to Lake Erie’s cold-water work and rough days on the trolling stalls without breaking the bank. On a tight-budget charter grind or a weekend war between you and a walleye come fall, you’ll still rely on it. The graphite frame stays rigid when you lean into a fight, and the CNC aluminum spool resists corrosion from spray and slop after long runs in the Central and Western Basin. With 4+1 ball bearings, it’s not a sprint machine, but it’s dependable enough for steady jigging and light trolling in 18-40 foot ranges during the fall transition. It’s the kind of reel you reach for when a setup needs to earn its keep trip after trip.
Key features and real-world benefits are straightforward. The 5.2:1 gear ratio gives you solid torque for jigging and enough speed for controlled trolling. The lightweight graphite frame keeps total weight down, so your arms aren’t fried after a morning of marking waypoints and punching holes in the boat. The CNC aluminum spool maintains true line lay under cold-water stress, and the 4+1 bearings keep the retrieve smooth enough to set hooks on walleye and perch without fighting the reel itself. In practical terms, you’ll fish 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jigs around 20-40 feet and still feel confident when a bigger fish makes a run along a weeds edge in fall patterns.
Who should buy this and when? Perfect for anglers who want a dependable spare for guests, a budget-minded backup on charter days, or a fall-season setup for tight reel budgets. In Western Basin fall patterns, you’ll be dialing in 2.0 mph or so with light jigs for walleye and perch; this reel handles the cadence without demanding premium parts. It’s a solid option for days when you’re fishing 20-60 feet and want a compact, reliable tool you can reach for without overthinking it. If you’re rotating rigs during a tournament day, this one earns its keep as a get-it-done performer you can trust on a long drift or a quick, precise jig strike.
Drawbacks or caveats? The drag isn’t built for monster runs from trophy walleyes, so you’ll need patience and good technique rather than brute power. Line capacity is modest, so you’ll want to manage spools on longer runs and be mindful of your knot and leader length. The budget build shows in the feel of the handle and some finishing touches, so plan for a solid, no-frills grip rather than a premium-metal heft—it’s designed for reliability, not luxury.
✅ Pros
- Under $25, great value.
- Cold-water durability.
- Smooth enough for jigging and light trolling.
❌ Cons
- Limited drag range for big fish.
- Line capacity is modest.
- Key Ingredient: Graphite frame + CNC aluminum spool
- Scent Profile: Clean finish; resists scent buildup
- Best For: Best Budget Durability
- Size / Volume: Compact 2000-series frame
- Special Feature: 5.2:1 gear, 4+1 bearings
-
KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel, Freshwater and Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel, Rigid Aluminum Frame 7+1 Double-Shielded Stainless-Steel BB, Over 30 lbs. Carbon Drag, CNC Aluminum Spool & Handle
🏆 Best For: Best for Big-Game Saltwater
That “Best for Big-Game Saltwater” tag sticks because this Megatron is built for abuse. Rugged rigid aluminum frame, 7+1 double-shielded stainless bearings, and a carbon drag over 30 pounds give you the stopping power Erie demands. You’ll feel the difference when you’re trolling heavy spoons off weedlines in the Central Basin or punching back into a cold Western Basin pocket while a big walleye tries to run.
Key features translate to real-world benefit: the CNC aluminum spool and handle deliver crisp line retrieval and long-lasting durability; the double-shielded bearings resist fouling from lake spray; the high-drag system lets you drive through long runs without fatigue. It’s versatile for trolling, jigging, and even ice jigging when the bite is hot and the boat’s moving.
Who should buy this and when: you’re a serious Erie angler who wants reliability without breaking the bank. This reel shines in fall patterns when walleyes stack on weedlines and perch hug structure. It suits Western Basin trolling for walleyes and Central Basin jigging for perch, and it’s a solid all-around choice for boat-to-ice transition days with easy maintenance and forgiving drag.
Drawbacks: It isn’t the lightest reel in its class, and it isn’t a dedicated ice-fishing setup. For ultra-light perch work or micro-jigging, you’ll want a smaller, lighter reel. After lake spray or spray from a chop, a quick rinse and proper lubrication will keep this Megatron turning season after season.
✅ Pros
- Rugged aluminum frame for rough seas
- 7+1 shielded bearings deliver smooth retrieves
- 30+ lb carbon drag handles big Erie walleyes
❌ Cons
- Not the lightest reel in its class
- Not a dedicated ice-fishing reel
- Key Ingredient: Rigid aluminum frame with CNC spool
- Scent Profile: Saltwater-grade protection and long-lasting seals
- Best For: Best for Big-Game Saltwater
- Size / Volume: Medium-large 3000-4000 series
- Special Feature: 30+ lb carbon drag; 7+1 bearings
-
KastKing Centron & Centron Lite Spinning Reels, Size 500 is Perfect for Ice Fishing, Up to 17.5 Max Drag, 5.2:1 Gear Ratio, Ultra Smooth Powerful, CNC Aluminum Spool, 9+1 BB Light Weight
🏆 Best For: Best Ice Fishing Lightweight
What earns this reel the Best Ice Fishing Lightweight position is its deadly balance of featherweight feel and ironclad cold-water performance for Lake Erie. You can pair the Centron 500 with a compact jigging rod and stay responsive on Western Basin ice where a gust can bite your knuckles. The 17.5-pound max drag gives you the bite you need on a vertical jig or a fast drop when walleyes are chasing bait at 15 to 40 feet, and the reel stays smooth as you work the fall pattern into deeper holes or perch hotspots.
Key features and real-world benefits come through when you’re on the ice. With a 5.2:1 gear ratio, you can slow-roll 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jigs or spoons without losing bite. The 9+1 ball bearings keep cranking smooth, day after day, and the CNC aluminum spool sheds weight while resisting cold-induced stiffness. You’ll appreciate the compact form during long sessions and glove work, and the $26.99 price makes it a no-brainer as a primary or backup ice reel for Erie trips.
Who should buy this and when? If you’re an Erie regular who wants a dedicated ice-fishing setup or you’re stocking a spare reel for fall perch bites and early-winter walleye, this is a solid pick. It shines on jigging, drop-shot verticals, and quick retrieves from 25 to 40 feet in Central Basin humps and weedlines. Use 6–10 lb line, tie small jigs, and you’ll stay in the bite without the extra weight dragging you down in the wind.
The main caveat is line capacity at 500 size—watch capacity with heavier jigs or long drops. The handle can feel a touch small with bulky gloves, and this reel isn’t built for heavy trolling or brackish-water deployments. Clean it and dry it after use to keep corrosion at bay through Erie’s damp, cold days.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-lightweight for long ice sessions
- Smooth 9+1 bearing action
- Adequate drag for Erie walleye
❌ Cons
- Small handle with thick gloves
- Limited line capacity (Size 500)
- Key Ingredient: CNC Aluminum Spool
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best Ice Fishing Lightweight
- Size / Volume: Size 500
- Special Feature: 9+1 Bearings, Ultra Smooth
-
EZ Reel Fishing Kit – Pocket Size Handline Fishing Reel | Ultimate Compact Rodless Reel Fishing Kit for Hiking, Outdoors, and Adventure.
🏆 Best For: Best Pocket-Sized Travel Kit
This Best Pocket-Sized Travel Kit earns its badge because it's the only pocketable handline setup that actually works on Lake Erie when you’re chasing perch along weedlines or probing the Western Basin shallows in fall. You can drop this rodless reel in your vest and still stay in the game as you bounce between spots, saving boat time and gear wear alike.
Real-world benefits show up fast. The EZ Reel is compact, rugged, and one-handed deployable. It handles a simple line setup, stands up to Erie’s cold water, and keeps weight off deck amid quick moves between jigging lanes. For walleye and perch, you can run light jigs or a small live-bloat rig, delivering clean presentations without a full rod in tow. At $29.99 and a 4.6-star rating, it’s a practical, no-frills tool that shines on Western Basin shoals and weedlines during fall patterns and tournament prep.
Who should buy this? If you fish light gear, cover shorelines, or want a little backup you can stash in a packing-strap or vest, this kit fits your purpose. It’s ideal for scouting runs, post-fish-cleaning breaks, or late-season roams where you don’t want to tote a second rod. In Western Basin conditions and Central Basin transitions, it keeps you fishing when your main setup stays in the rack—a reliable option for fall walleye and perch sessions and quick jig-and-fish moves between spots.
Honest caveat: this isn’t a primary trolling or heavy-duty casting reel. Line capacity is limited and there’s no sophisticated drag control, so big, stubborn Erie eyes aren’t the target here. It requires careful rigging and a light touch, and it’s best used for lighter jigs, jigging spoons, or small live rigs. Treat it as a clever backup, not a replacement for your main tournament gear.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-compact, fits in a vest
- Rodless design saves weight/time
- Cold-water durable for Erie trips
❌ Cons
- Limited line capacity
- Not for deep-water trolling or big walleye
- Key Ingredient: Compact handline reel with simple setup
- Scent Profile: Odor-free plastics and metal components
- Best For: Best Pocket-Sized Travel Kit
- Size / Volume: Ultra-compact, fits in pocket or small pack
- Special Feature: Rodless design for hiking, ice fishing, and travel
Factors to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What reel type is best for Lake Erie walleye trolling?
Most Erie anglers favor conventional trolling reels or sturdy baitcasters with braided line; they handle long runs behind boards or downriggers at steady speeds. Look for a smooth, strong drag and enough line capacity to cover your depth range. Pair it with a matching rod so your bait path stays true.
Do I need a sealed reel for Lake Erie?
Yes. Spray, cold mornings, and occasional ice push moisture into reels. Sealed bodies and covered bearings keep water out and help maintain smooth drag and free spool.
How much line capacity do I need for Erie walleye?
For 80-120 ft of water, plan on at least 200-300 yards of 20-30 lb braid backing plus your main line. If you run deeper or use lead core, ensure the spool has room for that extra length. Always verify with your rod/reel combo and preferred lures.
What gear ratio is best for jigging vs trolling?
Use a 5.1:1 to 6.2:1 reel for vertical jigging to lift lures quickly and feel bites. For trolling, a 4.6:1 to 5.2:1 helps you maintain consistent bait speed behind boards. Balance with an appropriate rod and line to avoid overrun or slack.
Are spinning reels a good option for Erie walleye?
Spinning reels work for light jigging and perch work or lighter lines, but most Erie trolling setups rely on conventional reels. You’ll gain easier line management with spinning gear, but you may give up some drag control under big loads. Keep a spare conventional reel on the boat for controlled depth changes and tough bites.
How do I maintain reels in cold weather?
Rinse with fresh water after trips, dry thoroughly, and apply a light dab of lubricant to the reel's moving parts. Keep reels in a dry bag or protected case when not in use, and avoid leaving them out in extreme cold. Regular service on off days keeps them from grimy freeze-ups on the water.
What is the best budget option?
Look for a rugged mid-range reel with sealed bearings, solid drag, and easy serviceability. You don’t need top-tier gear to compete, but you want reliability for a day on Erie’s waters. Pair it with a dependable rod and a line system you trust.
Conclusion
For Lake Erie walleye, the right reel balances drag, capacity, and weather resilience. In a tournament or a long weekend chase, a versatile conventional reel with a 5.1:1 to 6.2:1 ratio covers jigging and trolling tasks with confidence. Pair it with proper line and lures, and you’ll stay in the strike zone from early fall through ice.
