A note about links: If we include links to retail sites like Amazon or Bass Pro Shops, it's because they're relevant to the topic and, as anglers ourselves, we believe they're worth checking out. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
What it is
An ice fishing reel is a small, simple reel built for fishing straight down through a hole in the ice — no casting involved. Its only jobs are to hold a little line, lower your jig to the fish, and let line out smoothly when a fish pulls. For more on how a reel earns its keep, see the reel overview.
There are two kinds. An inline reel mounts so the spool sits parallel with the rod, which lets light line drop straight down without the twist and memory coils a spinning reel leaves in it — a big deal when you are watching for the faintest tap on a tiny jig. A small spinning reel is the simpler, cheaper option: line peels off the side of a fixed spool, which adds a little twist but works fine for bigger fish that hit harder.
When to reach for one
Reach for an inline reel when you are chasing panfish — bluegill, crappie, perch — with light line and tiny jigs. Detecting bites is the whole game, and line that hangs straight and untwisted telegraphs every nibble. The inline design also gives you a controlled free-fall on some models, so your jig drops at a rate you set instead of free-spooling into a tangle. Pair one with a sensitive ice rod and it shines for vertical jigging.
Reach for a small spinning reel when you are after walleye or pike. They hit harder, you are fishing heavier line, and a little line twist no longer matters. A spinning reel is also easier to use with cold, gloved hands and pairs well with live bait on a deadstick.
How to choose
Match the reel to the line you will actually fish. For panfish, an inline reel spooled with 2-4 lb line is the sweet spot — light enough that the jig falls naturally, tough enough to land a slab crappie. For walleye and pike, step up to a 500 to 1000 size spinning reel and 6-10 lb line.
Pay attention to the drag. Cold stiffens grease and makes cheap drags grabby, which snaps light line. Look for a smooth, sealed drag that stays consistent at freezing temps — this matters more on ice than open water. A spool you can palm or thumb gives you fine control over the jigging drop without relying on the drag at all. Keep the whole package light; you hold it in your hand all day, often through a glove.
Brands worth knowing
13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Ghost — the benchmark inline for panfish finesse, with a trigger that controls free-fall so your jig drops on your terms. Smooth in the cold and built for 2-4 lb line. Mid to upper price tier, and worth it if you fish panfish often.
13 Fishing Black Betty 6061 — the simpler, lighter inline if you do not need the free-fall trigger. Same straight-line, no-twist advantage for detecting subtle bites. Mid price tier and a great first inline.
Clam Ice Combo — a budget-friendly rod-and-reel combo that gets you on the ice without piecing parts together. Solid for panfish and walleye starters. Entry price tier and a sensible way to learn what you like before upgrading.
Shimano Sienna 500/1000 — a dependable small spinning reel for walleye and pike, with a smooth drag that holds up in the cold. Pair the 1000 size with 6-10 lb line. Budget to mid price tier and a proven workhorse.