Best Tuna Fishing Reels in the UK

Best Tuna Fishing Reels in the UK for 2025

Atlantic Bluefin tuna (BFT) are tearing through UK waters in 2025, and whether you’re one of the 180 CRRF anglers chasing a catch-and-release buzz or a commercial skipper landing quota off Cornwall, your reel is your battle anchor. These 200-250-lb giants—some hitting 700 lbs—demand the best tuna fishing reels in the UK to match their 40-mph sprints and relentless pulls. From the Celtic Deeps to the Lizard, 2025’s tuna fishery is alive, and the right Bluefin tuna reel turns chaos into victory. Here’s your guide to the top 2025 UK tuna fishing reels—crafted for stand-up fights and Bluefin triumphs.

Top 2025 UK Tuna Fishing Reels

These Bluefin tuna reels UK anglers need deliver strength and precision. Pair with 50-80-lb class rods and 50-80-lb line.

Penn International 50 VISX

Specs: 6 ft 2 in, 50-80-lb class, bent butt, full rollers.
Why: A UK charter legend—massive drag, sealed system, built tough. FH20_Forager crew relies on it for commercial wins.
Edge: Cornwall’s 350-lb fish meet their match.

Shimano Tiagra 50W LRSA

Specs: 6 ft, 50-lb class, bent butt, NANO-tech blank.
Why: Smooth power—perfect for CRRF lure trolling (lure guide (#)). Celtic Deeps anglers prize its control.
Edge: Low gear hauls deep fighters.

Daiwa Saltiga LD50-2SPD

Specs: 6 ft 4 in, 50-80-lb class, bent butt, composite build.
Why: Light yet fierce—silky drag, compact frame. Stand-up star off Devon.
Edge: High-speed retrieve chases fast runs.

Avet TRX 50/2

Specs: 6 ft 6 in, 80-lb class, bent butt, roller tip/butt.
Why: Small but mighty—castable, durable. Ideal for private boats or CRRF starters.
Edge: Fits Cornwall’s cramped decks.

Okuma Makaira 50WII

Specs: 6 ft 10 in, 50-80-lb class, #2 or #4 bent butt, BBGF rollers.
Why: Budget beast—huge capacity, smooth gears. Tackles 500-lb+ Bluefin off Wales.
Edge: Affordable grit for big battles.

Reel Tips for Bluefin Success

Drag Control: Set 8-10 kg strike, max 20 kg—smoothness beats raw force (stand-up guide (#)).
Line Load: 800+ yd hollow-core braid—dark, 100-200-lb test—keeps drag steady.
Gear Play: Low for slugging, high for reeling—two-speed rules.
Team Work: Skipper angles boat, you crank—reels thrive with crew sync.

Best Tuna Fishing Reels in the UK for 2025: Top Picks for Bluefin Battles