Okuma Cortez Box

Best Slow Pitch Jigging Reels | Updated For 2023

Best Slow Pitch Jigging Reels 2023

If you’re interested in slow pitch jigging, choosing the right reel is essential. A good slow pitch jigging reel should have a high gear ratio, powerful drag system, and narrow spool to handle light line and prevent tangles.

There are many different slow pitch jigging reels on the market, each with its own unique features and specifications, making it difficult to know which one to choose.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best slow pitch jigging reels available today, so you can find the right one for your needs and start enjoying this exciting and rewarding fishing technique.

Be sure to also check out our Slow Pitch Jigging Guide

Table of Contents

Okuma Cortez | Budget Pick

If you’re looking for a slow pitch jigging reel that won’t break the bank, the Okuma Cortez is definitely worth considering.

This reel may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the higher-end models, but it’s a solid choice for anglers on a budget.

The Cortez has a high gear ratio and powerful drag system, making it capable of handling light line and big fish.

It also has a narrow spool to reduce line twist and tangles, and the ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to use for long periods of time.

While it may not be the most advanced slow pitch jigging reel on the market, the Okuma Cortez is a reliable budget pick that gets the job done. Making it our pick for the best budget slow pitch reel.

Shimano Torium PGA | Editor's Choice

Model #16PGA20PGA30PGA
Gear Ratio4.6:14.6:14.6:1
Line per handle turn34″34″34″
Mono Capacity16/450
20/320
25/260
20/420
25/340
30/280
25/420
30/350
40/260
Braid Capacity50/530
65/330
80/250
50/710
65/375
80/310
50/1015
65/515
80/415
Max Drag33 lb33 lb33 lb
Weight19.4 oz19.8 oz20.3 oz

The Shimano Torium PGA is an outstanding slow pitch jigging reel that continues to impress anglers year after year. In fact, it has won Editor’s Choice again for its exceptional performance and features.

With a high gear ratio, powerful drag system, and compact design, the Torium PGA is perfect for slow pitch jigging and other light tackle fishing techniques.

It also features Shimano’s renowned Hagane Body, which provides excellent durability and rigidity, and the S-Compact Body design reduces the reel’s overall size and weight for increased comfort and ease of use.

Overall, the Shimano Torium PGA is an excellent choice for serious anglers who demand the very best, and it’s easy to see why it has once again earned Editor’s Choice honors.

Accurate Boss Valiant | Most Durable

Accurate Boss Valiant Mahi
Model #BV-300-SPJBV-500N-SPJ
Gear Ratio6.1:16.1:1
Line per handle turn38″45″
Mono Capacity
Braid Capacity30/32550/300
Max Drag23 lb30 lb
Weight9.9 oz15 oz

The Accurate Boss Valiant jigging reel is a top-of-the-line product that is known for its incredible durability. This reel is built to withstand the toughest conditions and can handle even the most aggressive fish.

The solid construction of the reel is impressive, with a frame and side plate made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and the body and spool made from stainless steel. The combination of these materials creates a strong and durable reel that can handle heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear.

One of the best things about the Accurate Boss Valiant jigging reel is the carbon fiber drag system. This feature makes the reel incredibly smooth and reliable, giving anglers the confidence they need to reel in big fish. The reel’s gear system is also incredibly robust, with stainless steel gears that are built to last. The Boss Valiant is also incredibly easy to use, with a comfortable handle that provides a secure grip, even when wet.

Overall, the Accurate Boss Valiant jigging reel is an excellent choice for anglers who need a durable and reliable reel that can handle any situation. Whether you’re fishing in saltwater or freshwater, this reel will provide you with the strength and confidence you need to reel in big fish. Its solid construction and smooth drag system make it a top choice for serious anglers who demand the best from their equipment.

Shimano Saragosa | Best Spinning

Model #Mono CapacityMax DragBall BearingsGear RatioLine per handle turnBraid CapacityWeight (oz)
SRG5000SW10/240, 12/195, 14/165165+15.7:138"20/245, 30/225, 40/17522
SRG6000SW12/265, 16/170, 20/12016.45+15.7:140"30/290, 50/195, 65/14022
SRG8000SW14/345, 16/250, 20/18524.35+15.6:142"40/340, 50/265, 65/21527

The Shimano Saragosa SW is a fantastic choice for anglers who prefer using spinning reels for jigging instead of conventional jigging reels.

With its robust build and top-notch components, the Saragosa SW can handle heavy loads and harsh conditions. Its high line capacity and smooth drag system make it ideal for jigging, while its X-Ship technology ensures enhanced gear durability and performance.

Additionally, the Saragosa SW features Shimano’s X-Tough Drag system, which provides the stopping power needed to reel in big fish quickly.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, the Shimano Saragosa SW is an excellent choice for those looking to take their jigging to the next level with a spinning reel.

See our full Shimano Saragosa Review.

Be sure to also check out our article on the Best Slow Pitch Jigging Rods.

Shimano Ocea Jigger | Best Slow Pitch Jigging Reel

Best slow pitch jigging reel shimano ocea jigger
Model #OCEAJG1500HGOCEAJG2000NRHG
Gear Ratio6.4:16.2:1
Line per handle turn39″46″
Mono Capacity
Braid Capacity40/300
50/250
65/180
40/400
50/340
65/250
Max Drag15 lb22 lb
Weight14.3 oz21 oz

The Shimano Ocea Jigger is widely regarded as the best slow pitch jigging reel on the market, regardless of price. Its exceptional design and features make it a top choice for serious anglers who demand the best from their gear.

One of this reel’s standout features is its Hagane body, which is constructed from a high-strength metal that is resistant to flexing, warping, and twisting. This results in a reel that is incredibly robust and can handle the stresses of heavy use, even in tough saltwater conditions due to its X-Protect technology.

Its MicroModule gears combined with the Infinity Drive provide a smooth and precise retrieval, making it easy to feel every bite and make the most of every drop.

All of these features combined make the Shimano Ocea Jigger the best reel for slow pitch jigging on the market, and a top choice for discerning anglers looking for high-performance gear.

For more information, check out our Slow Pitch Jigging Guide.

Or our list of the Best Slow Pitch Jigs

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2 Comments

  1. For jigging lighter weight jigs, you should consider the Lew’s Superduty 300. It is saltwater rated and a lower profile, which fits many peoples hands more comfortably. With 30lb braid, you can spool nearly 250 yards of line on the reel. the max dag is 24lbs, which is generally more than enough in shallower water. It has an available power handle which is required for jigging, in my opinion and the reel picks up 35″ of line in the 7.2:1 model. A great feature not talked about is the dual anti-reverse, which is really a must for a saltwater reel. For 50g-100g jigs, the reel is smooth and effortless. It can easily handle kingfish, bull reds, triple tail, red snapper, blackfin tuna and the list goes on. I really like mine, and it doubles as a great reel tarpon and other inshore species.

    1. This would be a great option for small jigs targeting smaller fish. Most people use larger jigs in deep water to target big snapper and grouper and miss out on the fun of light jigging which can be a blast. Thank you for the recommendation