Imagine you’re an angler pulling in a hefty catch, feeling the line’s tension and the reel’s smooth action as it handles the strain. Bowfishing reels work similarly, and choosing the right one can make your experience seamless.
With this lineup, you’ll find expert picks like the MegaMouth 2.0, boasting a remarkable 28 inches per crank retrieval speed, and the sturdy AMS Bowfishing Retriever Pro.
These reels are evaluated for key features such as retrieval speed, gear ratio, and durability. You’re about to uncover what sets these top choices apart.
Our Top Picks
- AMS Retriever Pro: Zero drag system, quick-release quiver mount, and 17 inches per crank retrieval speed.
- Cajun Winch Pro: Fighting Wheel Brake for simultaneous braking and reeling with a durable ceramic string guide.
- MegaMouth 2.0: Industry-leading 28 inches per crank retrieval speed with dual stainless steel and brass gears.
- Muzzy Pro: Pre-spooled with 150 feet of 150 lb line, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use.
- Retriever Sport: User-friendly, no buttons required, lightweight construction, and pre-loaded with 25 yards of 200# test Dacron line.
Note: Clicking on the above links will take you to further information, current prices, and customer reviews on Amazon and selected other retailers.
AMS Bowfishing Retriever Pro Reel – Made in The USA
- The AMERICAN MADE, AMS Retriever Pro is the original bottle-style bowfishing reel - the design that has proven itself over 40 years! It's durable, reliable and it performs! And, it’s simple to use. There are no buttons to push before the shot. Unlike most other reels, Retrievers are always ready to shoot. They’re always in free-spool mode. Just draw and shoot!
- Zero Drag - The line is stacked in a bottle rather than wound on a drum or spool so there is no drag on the line when it’s shot. The line freely spools out of the bottle on the shot and on the retrieve just stacks right back in.
- Heavy-Duty Construction - Retrievers can take the abuse of bowfishing and will stand the test of time! Machined brass gears, stainless steel hardware and lightweight, corrosion resistant housing ensure long life in fresh or saltwater.
- Quick-Release Quiver Mount – The Retriever Pro Mounts to your bows sight holes. One t-screw controls 4-way movement of the reel and also allows for quick removal. An arrow quiver is also integrated into this mount.
- The Retriever Pro retrieves 17” of line per crank and includes 25 yards of 200# test braided Dacron line. We also include an AMS patented, EverGlide Safety Slide with every reel for your arrows. MADE IN THE USA!
The AMS Bowfishing Retriever Pro Reel is ideal for bowfishing enthusiasts seeking a reliable, American-made product.
This reel’s bottle-style design has been trusted for over 40 years, ensuring zero drag and heavy-duty construction. You’ll love the quick-release quiver mount and the impressive retrieval speed of 17″ per crank.
It comes with 25 yards of 200# test braided Dacron line, making it perfect for various bowfishing needs. Users praise its quality, durability, and ease of installation. The reel’s user-friendly design eliminates the need to click a button before shooting, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
With its speed, value for money and attractive appearance, the AMS Retriever Pro is a superior choice for any bowfishing adventure.
Best For: Bowfishing enthusiasts seeking a durable, American-made reel with fast retrieval and easy operation.
Pros:
- Zero drag and heavy-duty construction for long-lasting use.
- Quick-release quiver mount for convenience.
- Fast retrieval speed of 17″ per crank, outperforming traditional drum reels.
Cons:
- Limited to 25 yards of line, which might be insufficient for some users.
- Specific to bowfishing, not versatile for other types of fishing.
- The price may be higher compared to some basic models.
Cajun Bowfishing Winch Pro Reel Bowfishing Kit
- COMPLETE BUNDLE: Reel kit includes Winch Pro, 25 yards of 250 lbs. of line, two arrows with piranha points, slides, stops, and Brush Fire arrow rest
- ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE: Fighting Wheel Brake allows you to brake and reel simultaneously
- HIGHLY ADJUSTABLE: Adjustable durable ceramic string guide for smoother string feed
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Revolutionary design allows for one-handed operation
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Rugged aluminum frame for superior durability
Looking for a bowfishing reel that’s both durable and highly adjustable? The Cajun Bowfishing Winch Pro Reel Bowfishing Kit is your go-to solution. This kit includes the Winch Pro reel, 25 yards of 250 lbs. line, two arrows with piranha points, slides, stops, and a Brush Fire arrow rest.
Its Fighting Wheel Brake lets you brake and reel simultaneously, while the durable ceramic string guide guarantees a smooth string feed.
With a rugged aluminum frame and one-handed operation design, this ambidextrous reel offers unmatched durability and convenience.
Its positive ratings speak volumes about its quality. This is it if you need reliability and ease of use in one package.
Best For: Enthusiastic bowfishers looking for a durable, highly adjustable reel with one-handed operation.
Pros:
- Fighting Wheel Brake allows simultaneous braking and reeling.
- Durable ceramic string guide ensures smooth string feed.
- Rugged aluminum frame for enhanced durability.
Cons:
- Heavier than some alternatives at 2.15 pounds.
- May be overkill for casual or beginner bowfishers.
- Higher price point compared to simpler models.
MegaMouth 2.0 Bowfishing Reel with Hex Through-Tube Rod
- The MegaMouth Bowfishing Reel is the Most Dominant Piece of Equipment the Sport of Bowfishing has ever Seen
- Fastest Retrieval in the Industry – 28 inches of line per crank
- Strongest Reel in the Industry – dual stainless steel and brass gears for power cranking big fish
- Buttonless FreeWheel design – no way to accidentally shoot an unreleased reel
- Quick Adjust Drag that can be adjusted mid-fight
For the dedicated bowfisher looking for top-tier performance, the MegaMouth 2.0 Bowfishing Reel with Hex Through-Tube Rod is an exceptional choice.
This reel isn’t just a modified fishing reel; it’s built from the ground up specifically for bowfishing. You’ll appreciate its industry-leading retrieval speed of 28 inches per crank and the quick adjust drag that can be modified mid-fight.
The dual stainless steel and brass gears provide powerful cranking for large fish, while the buttonless FreeWheel design prevents accidental line release.
Weighing just 2.4 pounds and featuring a 200-pound test braided line, the MegaMouth 2.0 offers strength and precision. With a perfect customer rating, it’s a must-have for serious bowfishers.
Best For: Dedicated bowfishers seeking a high-performance, reliable reel specifically designed for the sport.
Pros:
- Industry-leading retrieval speed of 28 inches per crank.
- Quick adjust drag allows modifications mid-fight.
- Dual stainless steel and brass gears for powerful cranking.
Cons:
- Limited customer reviews available.
- Relatively high weight at 2.4 pounds.
- Package only includes 40 yards of pre-spooled line.
Retriever Sport Bowfishing Reel
- Built with the same internal components as the time tested, industry leading Retriever Pro
- No buttons to push on the shot – Just draw and shoot
- Line stacks in a bottle rather than being wound on a spool
- Mounts to bows sight holes with included adjustment spacer
- 25 yards of 200# test Dacron line installed
If you’re after a reliable and user-friendly bowfishing reel, the Retriever Sport Bowfishing Reel from AMS Bowfishing is a top contender for 2024.
Made in the USA, this 1-pound reel features heavy-duty yet lightweight construction with brass gears and stainless steel hardware.
You’ll love its user-friendly operation—no buttons, just draw and shoot. The line stacks in a bottle for zero-drag deployment, and retrieval is a breeze with a simple index finger lever and crank.
It comes pre-loaded with 25 yards of 200# test Dacron line and boasts a 3:1 gear ratio, retrieving 17 inches of line per crank. Components like the AMS EverGlide Safety Slide and mounting hardware make it a complete package.
Best For: Enthusiasts looking for a reliable, user-friendly bowfishing reel with durable construction and easy operation.
Pros:
- User-friendly operation with no buttons, just draw and shoot
- Heavy-duty yet lightweight construction with brass gears and stainless steel hardware
- Pre-loaded with 25 yards of 200# test Dacron line
Cons:
- Only available in right-hand orientation
- Limited customer feedback with only one rating
- Higher price point compared to entry-level reels
Muzzy Pro Bowfishing Reel Silver, One Size
- Spin Cast Style Reel with Extended Hood for Smoother More accurate Shots
- Intergrated Reel Mounting System, Push Button Reel Activation
- Pre-Spooled with 150 ft of 150 lb Line
- Salt Water Rated, All Stainless Steel and Brass Drive System
- Stainless Steel Roller Pick Up Pin, Right and Left Hand Adjustable
Spin cast enthusiasts searching for a reliable bowfishing reel should consider the Muzzy Pro Bowfishing Reel Silver, One Size. This reel features an extended hood for smoother, more accurate shots and an integrated reel mounting system.
You’ll appreciate the push-button reel activation and the fact that it comes pre-spooled with 150 feet of 150 lb line.
Rated for saltwater use, its all-stainless steel and brass drive system guarantees durability. The stainless steel roller pick-up pin and adjustable right or left-hand configuration add to its versatility.
Best For: Spin cast enthusiasts looking for a reliable and durable bowfishing reel suitable for freshwater and saltwater use.
Pros:
- Extended hood for smoother, more accurate shots
- Pre-spooled with 150 ft of 150 lb line
- Right and left-hand adjustable
Cons:
- Limited to one size option
- Higher price compared to some competitors
- Only available in silver color
read.. bow fishing arrows
Cajun Bowfishing Winch Pro Bowfishing Reel
- ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE: Fighting Wheel Brake allows you to brake and reel simultaneously
- GUARANTEED LONGEVITY: Adjustable durable ceramic string guide for smoother string feed
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Revolutionary design allows for one-handed operation
- EXTREME DURABILITY: Rugged aluminum frame for superior durability
- UNIVERSAL FIT: Vertical and horizontal adjustments allow the perfect fit on any bow
For bowfishing enthusiasts seeking high-quality performance, the Cajun Bowfishing Winch Pro Bowfishing Reel stands out as an exceptional choice. Its Fighting Wheel Brake allows you to brake and reel simultaneously, ensuring ultimate performance.
The adjustable ceramic string guide provides a smoother feed, guaranteeing longevity. You’ll appreciate its innovative one-handed operation and rugged aluminum frame that offers extreme durability.
This reel fits universally with vertical and horizontal adjustments, making it versatile for any setup.
Customers rave about its quality and heavy-duty handling, preferring it over competing brands like AMS reels. Despite some clarity issues with the instruction sheet, overall satisfaction is high.
Best For: Bowfishing enthusiasts seeking a durable, high-performance reel that offers smooth operation and universal fit.
Pros:
- Fighting Wheel Brake for simultaneous braking and reeling
- Durable aluminum frame and adjustable ceramic string guide
- One-handed operation and universal fit adjustments
Cons:
- Higher price for left-handed models with mixed compatibility feedback
- Instruction sheet clarity issues
- Some users may find the price point high compared to other brands
Muzzy Bowfishing Tournament Reel, Gray, One Size
- Improved Elongated Hood, Larger opening for smoother line flow and Line lubrication slots
- Dual Stainless Steel Pickup Pins
- Gear Ratio of 3.4:1
- Carbon Fiber Handle with Larger Foam Grips, Increased Durability and Performance
- One-Way Bearing Anti-Reverse System
The Muzzy Bowfishing Tournament Reel, Gray, One Size, stands out for its improved elongated hood and larger opening, making it an excellent choice for avid bowfishers seeking smoother line flow and enhanced performance.
With dual stainless steel pickup pins and a gear ratio of 3.4:1, you’ll appreciate the carbon fiber handle with larger foam grips’ increased durability and performance. The one-way bearing anti-reverse system adds to its appeal.
Nevertheless, be aware of mixed reviews regarding its reliability. Some users reported the handle falling off after a month and issues with stripped internals.
Customer service has likewise been criticized for unresponsive warranty claims. While some find it reliable, others suggest alternatives like the Zebco 808.
Best For: Avid bowfishers seeking smoother line flow and enhanced performance with features like an improved elongated hood and larger opening.
Pros:
- Improved elongated hood and larger opening for smoother line flow.
- Carbon fiber handle with larger foam grips for increased durability and performance.
- One-way bearing anti-reverse system.
Cons:
- Reports of the handle falling off after a month.
- Issues with stripped internals and failure to release line.
- Unresponsive customer service regarding warranty claims.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Bowfishing Reels
When selecting bowfishing reels, you’ll want to pay attention to gear ratio and line retrieval speed for efficient performance. Material durability and ease of use guarantee that your gear is user-friendly and withstands harsh conditions.
Additionally, consider hand orientation options to match your dominant hand for comfortable handling.
Gear Ratio Importance
Understanding the gear ratio of a bowfishing reel can dramatically improve your success out on the water. The gear ratio indicates how many inches of line are retrieved with each handle crank. Common ratios range from 2:1 to 4:1.
A higher gear ratio means faster line retrieval, allowing for quicker follow-up shots after an initial release, which is vital in fast-paced bowfishing scenarios.
Line Retrieval Speed
Considering gear ratios, it’s just as important to focus on line retrieval speed, a key factor for efficient bowfishing. Line retrieval speed directly affects your ability to catch fast-moving fish, making it a vital aspect of your reel selection.
High-speed reels can retrieve up to 28 inches of line per crank, drastically reducing the time you spend reeling in your catch. This is especially beneficial when you’re dealing with swift fish or need to prepare for a quick follow-up shot.
Typical retrieval speeds for many bowfishing reels range from 17 to 28 inches per crank. In competitive settings, faster retrieval speeds are often preferred to maintain an edge.
Material Durability
Durability is vital when selecting a bowfishing reel, as the materials used in its construction directly impact its longevity and performance.
You’ll want to look for reels crafted from stainless steel, aluminum, or high-grade plastics. These materials offer excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, fundamental for enduring the harsh environments you’ll encounter during bowfishing, especially if you’re dealing with salt water..
Ease of Use
When choosing a bowfishing reel, ease of use can greatly impact your overall experience and success. You’ll want to look for reels with user-friendly designs that eliminate the need for buttons, allowing for quick drawing and shooting.
Reels that stack the line in a bottle for zero-drag deployment are particularly efficient, making your shots smoother and more accurate.
Hand Orientation Options
Choosing a bowfishing reel that aligns with your hand orientation is vital for a comfortable and successful experience.
Hand orientation options typically include right-hand and left-hand configurations, catering to your dominant hand for smooth and efficient operation.
Many modern reels boast ambidextrous functionality, making them versatile for right- and left-handed users without needing additional modifications.
This design improves convenience and guarantees that you can seamlessly switch between users or adapt to different shooting styles.
Some models go a step further by featuring adjustable handles that can be configured to suit either hand orientation. This flexibility is invaluable, especially if you share your gear with others or if you’re ambidextrous yourself.