Kastking Speed Demon Spinning Reel 2000
A lot of bang for your buck, an economical reel that comes with a lot of bells and whistles for its price point. A lightweight aluminum frame, carbon handle, with an impressive 7.2:1 gear ratio is ideal for a long session with multiple casts. 25lbs of drag and a sufficient line capacity spool (130 yards of 10lb mono) should make good work of multiple species in the surf. This is one of our go to surf fishing reels and most importantly we have no complaints. Because of the great price you won’t freak out if it accidentally falls in the sand.
Pflueger Trion Spinning Reel 35X
An economical surf fishing reel that can take a beating in the sand and won’t break the bank. If you’re just getting into surf fishing this is a reliable reel that is affordable but still better then some of the other lower end options. Stainless steel ball bearings with a 5.2:1 gear ration and 10lbs of drag. The spool can hold up to 155 yards of 10lb mono or 220 yards of 10lb braid. You will have more than enough line capacity to handle the smaller class fish with no problem (perch, corbinas, croakers etc.). For the price it’s a good entry-level reel.
Penn Battle II Spinning Reel 8000
One of our favorite surf fishing reels on the market. The Penn Battle II works like a charm. A beast of a reel with a large line capacity that can hold 340 yards of 20lb mono. 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings with an anti reverse bearing makes for a clean and sand free drag system. 30lbs of drag and a gear ratio of 5:3.1 this reel will hold up to a majority of species in the surf, a good value for the price point.
Okuma Azores Spinning Reel z-55s
A reliable reel with a lot of extras, especially for its price. The Azores series comes with a dual force drag system that has 6 high performance ball bearings and an anti reverse ball bearing which applies 13lbs of drag. A machine cut aluminum handle and aluminum body makes for a lightweight and comfortable cast and grip. The high capacity spool holds 380 yards of 10lb mono, a sold reel that works well in the surf.