In our last Happening On Base Newsletter we asked what y’all have been getting into this summer, and the answers are in: you’re either on the water or it’s too hot to get outdoors! We feel you and want to make sure your time spent outside is worthwhile. That’s why we’ve created this list of our recommended fishing reels for late summer fishing outings — from trout, bass, pike, and muskie. 

Best For Late Summer Bass Fishing: The Viper X Spinning Reel

The Viper X Spinning reel is our personal favorite budget solution for catching big freshwater or saltwater bass, with the 5000-model boasting a maximum 33lb drag with an up-to 230 yard braid line capacity.  With a silky smooth 6.2:1 ratio with fast retrieve and a lightweight high-strength graphite body the Viper X has quickly become the favorite set up for many anglers on waters across the U.S.:

“Hands down the best reel on the market for the money. I have spent 20-years fishing with Shimano Stradic reels and needed a cheaper option. I bought two of these a few months ago and haven’t had a problem yet and I have over 100 hours on them both.” 

“This reel spins more than my Pflueger and is more lightweight.” 

“Got my Viper X this morning and now I’m filleting white bass and crappie. Wound my 8lb test evenly, ran smooth as butter, good drag, and it got me out farther than the reel it replaced.” 

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Best Fishing Reels for Late Summer Trout: Piscifun Flame Spinning Reel

The Flame has a unique hollow body, x shape spool and personalized handle for a more advanced feeling fishing experience than other reels of the same price. The 9 quality ball bearings plus one roller bearing, and precision gear engagement makes the Flame stand out for buttery smooth performance. Capable of carrying weight, the 4000 model has a 45lb/175yds capacity. Read what others who have tested the Flame have to say:

“The Flame is fantastic for the price, smooth, quiet and well built—comparable to a Penn or other more expensive reel.” 

“This is the third Flame I’ve purchased. There may be inexpensive reels that equal or outperform this one, but I see no need to experiment. I use mine on the local lake for trout and small mouth bass.” 

“I have two Piscifun reels, a Torrent bait caster and I recently bought a Flame 200 for my wife to use for trout. We couldn’t be happier. The Flame is as smooth as you could want, and in addition, the bail close is smooth and effortless.” 

Best Fishing Reels for Pike and Muskie: The Alijoz 300 Low Profile Baitcasting Reel

The Alijoz 300 has a mono capacity of 15lb/190yds and a braid capacity of 40lb/205yds making it a great choice for feisty late summer pike or muskie. Let this reel become your favorite go-to for freshwater and saltwater fishing as it was designed to provide a unique platform for hard pulling species. Check out the success other had:

“The Alijoz 300 with 40lb braid handles three 30lb roosters with no problem. Its smooth, has plenty of power and is a great reel at an amazing value.” 

“I have owned the Alijoz size 300 reel for about 8 months now to replace my Lew’s speed spool after the brake gave out on it. This reel is 100x better. The 33lbs. of drag is amazing as I fish off jetties with a lot of heavy cover. I have used this reel for shark, rockfish, halibut, bass, catfish, pike, etc. And have not been disappointed.” 

“I spent hours researching bait casters that would stand up to the demands of my muskie fishing needs. I pulled the trigger on the Piscifun Alijoz 300 because of the aluminum frame, dual worm shaft stabilizer bars, magnetic breaking, 33lb frag, and abundance of reel space for line. I paid $100 for this tool, I could have spent $400 on a Shimano Tranx or Diawa Lexa. If this lasts 2 or 3 years, the way I fish I think it’s a no brainer to purchase. UPDATE: After fishing with this for over a year now, it has been fantastic in all aspects. Just keep it cleaned and oiled and it should last a lifetime.” 

Use the special code AFF15 for an extra 15% off most fishing gear! 

Find more Piscifun fishing reels and gear on iSportsmanUSA!