Over the last two days, we've had the chance to either cast or hold most of the new reels released at ICAST 2025. We've even fished with a few of the models leading up to their release here in Orlando. The freshwater side saw a good mix of new baitcasting and spinning reels, while the saltwater category leaned heavily towards lightweight, low-profile inshore reels. Either way, there is something new for every type of angler. Here's a first look at some of the hottest new reels to drop in 2025 and early next year.
New Freshwater Reels
Lew’s Speed Spool RX Casting Reel
I’ve long been a fan of the legendary Lew’s Speed Spool lineup. The most recent addition, the Speed Spool RX, is a leveled-up version built on the classic platform chock-full of new goodies, most notably the ParaMag Braking System. This system uses magnets instead of brake shoes and friction to slow the spool, resulting in an extremely backlash-resistant, easy-to-cast reel. ParaMag was introduced in the Lew’s Custom Pro last year; that reel was priced at $300. The new Speed Spool RX comes in at $180. I was able to get my hands on one of these about three weeks before ICAST, and I have already caught a couple of 4-plus-pounders on this reel spooled with 40-pound braid. It's a workhorse. —Shaye Baker
Okuma Avenger B Spinning Reel
The original Okuma Avenger Spinning Reel took home the Best Budget award in our 2025 spinning reels test. The updated Avenger B version promises to be even better, featuring a sturdy aluminum handle and an oversized HGD+ gear, among other improvements. This reel is available in 11 different models, ranging in size from 500 to 5000. Every size and model is priced at $54.99. —S.B.
Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel
In short, Daiwa has engineered a sideplate that eliminates the need for screws where the reel handle arm meets the body. Instead, the whole plate threads onto the body. The result is a super stable connection with no flex, and the byproduct is a lot of freed-up space in the body since there’s no need for screw receivers. According to Daiwa, this creates 20 percent more room in the 2000 size reel and 30 percent more in the 3000. Priced at $240, this reel will be a great option for what has become the middle-of-the-road price point. —S.B.
Seviin GX Casting Reel
During the on-the-water portion of the ICAST show, I was able to make a few casts with the Seviin GX Casting Reel. I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the reel cast. Although the GX performed well while casting, the innovative bait keeper on the handle is what sets it apart (see below). To my knowledge, no one else has done this yet, but I expect this will become a new industry standard in time. You can pick up a Seviin GX for $220. —S.B.
Shimano Exsence Spinning Reel
The Shimano Exsence was one of the most anticipated new reels of the show. I haven’t had a chance to fish with one yet, but my initial impressions are good. The reel is light, crisp, and feels strong. Shimano aimed to create a lighter, more balanced reel with the Exsence, packing nearly two dozen of their proprietary components and processes into the build. The Exsence will retail for around $600. —S.B.
New Saltwater Reels
Quantum Cabo
The updated Quantum Cabo was my favorite new saltwater reel at ICAST 2025. Holding it in hand, this reel is lightweight yet well-built, featuring a smooth cranking system. The oversized knob is a plus for easy reeling, and I'd imagine it will help when tying into bigger fish. It comes sealed to keep saltwater out and is available in sizes from 2500 to 3000. Match this with the new G. Loomis IMX-Pro Green and you'll have a deadly inshore setup. The new Cabo retails for $250. —Ryan Chelius
Daiwa Saltiga
The Saltiga line from Daiwa is a longtime favorite among saltwater anglers. These reels are known for being durable and reliable workhorses in the worst conditions imaginable. For 2025, Daiwa upgraded the Saltiga lineup with more of their proprietary technology, claiming that it increases winding efficiency by 20 percent and improves strength and line management. The 20000-size reel in the new product showcase here at ICAST was comfortable in hand, smooth, and well-built. Unless you're targeting giant bluefin tuna or GTs, you'll want to get one of the other seven smaller sizes. Overall, the lineup consists of reels in sizes from 8000 to 25000. —R.C.
St. Croix Seviin GW Series
The Seviin GW saltwater reel features a fully sealed aluminum body with stainless steel bearings. The entire parts and internals are made from corrosion-resistant materials, and there are five sizes available, ranging from 2500 to 6000. This is also one of the most budget-friendly new saltwater reels at the show, starting at just $130. The Seviin GW goes on sale next month. —R.C.
Florida Fishing Osprey CE Pro 5000
Popular among anglers in the Southeast, Florida Fishing Products makes quality saltwater gear. Their newest reel, the Osprey CE Pro 5000, is purpose-built for inshore fishing. It weighs 9.2 ounces and has a max drag of 25. The build is sound, and the reel feels solid but lightweight. I like the oversized knob that should help with cranking down and putting the brakes on bigger fish. This reel is perfect for chasing schoolie striped bass, redfish, snook, and even mid-size tarpon. The Osprey CE Pro 5000 retails for $280. —R.C.
Tsunami Evict II
Retailing for $200, the new Tsunami Evict II is a more budget-friendly option for inshore anglers. It features a compact, low-profile design with an all stainless steel drive and pinion gear. The all-metal body and one-piece aluminum handle increase the overall durability of this reel. Tsunami claims it can take the abuse of offshore fishing, but I'm not sure how much even the biggest Evict II (5000 size) can handle on big water. However, it should do just fine for inshore species. —R.C.
New Fly Reels
Epic Trutta Hubless Fly Reel
Trout anglers who love click and pawl reels (myself included) will be interested in this new small stream reel from Epic. It only weighs 106 grams and features a universal left/right design compatible with any 3-, 4-, or 5-weight line. The arbor is smooth, and the reel comes with a padded case. Available in four colors—black, red, blue, or silver—the Hubless is perfect for chasing brookies, browns, and rainbows on small streams. This new Epic reel retails for $500. —R.C.
Okuma Integrity Fly Reel
Fly fishing isn't the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Okuma, but I was impressed with the new Integrity reel. It has an aluminum frame and a large arbor. There's nothing fancy about this reel, but for $80, I'm not sure how much more you can ask for. I held an 8/9-weight version, but anglers can pick up a new Integrity in any line size from 3 to 9-weight.
