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Step 1
Locate reels designed for saltwater. Regardless of any other factors, deep sea fishing requires saltwater reels, which tend to be larger and sturdier than freshwater reels to handle more adverse conditions and bigger fish. Look for reels with aluminum or stainless steel frames whose components will not rust or stick when exposed to salt corrosion.
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Step 2
Decide what sort of fish you'll be pursuing. Smaller fish can use a reel with a lighter line, while big fish require stronger lines and heavier reels.
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Step 3
Understand the difference in reel design and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Generally speaking, you will probably want to look for big game reels, which are designed for trolling in the sea and have the strength to land deep sea fish such as marlin and albacore tuna. Other types of reels provide different features, however, and you should know what they are before selecting one.
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Step 4
Pick a reel that fits your experience level the best. Novice fishermen should look for simple reels that can be operated with a minimum of fuss. As your experience with deep sea fishing grows, you can look for more elaborate reels that allow you to adapt to specific circumstances.
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Step 5
Take stock of your technique periodically and look for reels that might fit it better. Every fisherman develops his own unique means of operating his equipment, subtle quirks as individual as a fingerprint. Different reels may fit your proclivities better and allow you to fish more effectively.
