Cold Water Line Counter Reel
4.5(2,100)4.5 out of 5 stars, 2,100 reviews, on Amazon at the time this was writtenThe line counter that put repeatable trolling depths within reach of everyone with a boat and eight rod holders.
Okuma
Okuma · Reels
Sheffield Centerpin Float Reel
4.4(260)4.4 out of 5 stars, 260 reviews, on Amazon at the time this was writtenAn affordable entry into centerpin float fishing — a free-spinning drum that lets a float drift at true current speed.
Check price on Amazon$180— Sheffield Centerpin Float ReelPrice shown was accurate on 2026-09-01. Amazon sets the live price.
What's good
- Spins freely enough for a genuine drag-free drift, which is the entire point
- A quarter the price of the boutique British pins
- 5-inch drum picks up line fast when a fish runs at you
- Machined aluminum body survives being knocked against tributary rock
What isn't
- The learning curve is steep — expect a month of overruns before you can cast one competently
- Bearings need cleaning and re-oiling every few trips or the free spin degrades noticeably
- No drag at all; you palm the drum, and a fresh steelhead will burn your thumb
We list the drawbacks because a recommendation with no downside is a sales pitch. If a cheaper item does the job on your water, the write-up says so.
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