BILLINGS Smooth Trolling Baitcasting Reel — 3.8:1, 15 kg Max Drag, Ambidextrous, Aluminum Alloy (Saltwater-Ready)

Torque-rich control for NZ trolling and bottom work

The BILLINGS Smooth Trolling Baitcasting Reel is purpose-built for slow, steady power—perfect for trolling and ledger rigs where control matters more than outright speed. A 3.8:1 gear ratio multiplies torque for hauling sinkers and turning strong fish, while a max drag of 15 kg gives you stopping power when a snapper, salmon, or harbour bass surges near structure. The reel’s aluminum alloy construction keeps weight down and corrosion resistance up, and the ambidextrous layout suits left- or right-hand retrieve.

Why you’ll like it (NZ use cases)

• Built for torque: The 3.8:1 ratio excels at trolling, straylining, and slow-jigging styles common around the Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Plenty, and Tasman waters.
  
• Serious stopping power: 15 kg drag lets you steer fish away from reef and kelp beds.
  
• Saltwater-friendly: Aluminum alloy body with PA (nylon) components for a durable, lightweight, and corrosion-aware design.
  
• Ambidextrous comfort: Set it up the way you fish—bank, boat, or kayak.
  
• All-day usability: Smooth cranking and a compact profile reduce forearm fatigue on long trolls.
  

On-water performance

• Trolling & live bait: Low gear delivers steady pressure on deep-running bibbed lures or livies for kingfish by-catch, while remaining sweet for snapper and salmon targets.
  
• Bottom rigs: Lift and wind through weighty sinkers without stalling; keep fish’s head turned during the first critical seconds.
  
• Kayaks & tinnies: Light, tidy footprint with confidence-inspiring crank under load.
  

Tip: Pair with a medium-heavy to heavy baitcast/overhead rod, 20–40 lb braid (or 10–15 kg mono), and adjust drag so it slips on sharp runs but stays firm in a steady pull.

Key features at a glance

• Gear ratio: 3.8:1 (high torque)
  
• Max drag: 15 kg
  
• Reel material: Aluminum alloy (durable & lightweight)
  
• Major material: PA (polyamide/nylon) components for toughness and impact resistance
  
• Orientation: Ambidextrous
  
• Environment: Saltwater (rinse after use)
  
• Colour: Mixed (black primary with contrasting accents)
  
• Brand: BILLINGS
  
• Quantity: 1 reel
  

Design details

• Light yet strong: Aluminum alloy frame resists flex when the drag is locked down.
  
• Smooth feel: Precision gearing supports steady pressure at trolling speeds.
  
• Ergonomic handle: Contoured knobs give grip with wet hands and in cooler southern conditions.
  

Care & maintenance (especially for salt)

1. Rinse gently with fresh water after every salt session; avoid high-pressure jets.
   
2. Dry with a soft cloth; store cool and out of direct sunlight.
   
3. Lube: A drop of oil on handle knobs and level-wind; grease gears as per manual.
   
4. Back off drag before storage to preserve drag washers.
   

Who it’s for

• Trollers & strayliners who want torque and control rather than fast retrieve.
  
• Boat and kayak anglers needing compact power for snapper and inshore species.
  
• NZ weekend fishers chasing reliable gear that’s easy to maintain.
  
• Gift givers (Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Halloween, Father’s Day): a practical, modern piece of snapper fishing equipment.
  

Specifications (summary)

• Type: Baitcasting (trolling-leaning)
  
• Gear ratio: 3.8:1
  
• Max drag: 15 kg
  
• Materials: Aluminum alloy reel; PA/nylon components
  
• Orientation: Ambidextrous
  
• Use: Saltwater (bass, snapper, salmon)
  
• Colour: Mixed colour (black alloy with accents)
  
• Brand: BILLINGS
  
• Pack count: 1
  

FAQs

Will the 3.8:1 feel slow?
It’s intentionally slower to increase torque—ideal for trolling, heavy rigs, and fighting strong fish with control.

Is it okay for saltwater?
Yes—designed with aluminum alloy and PA components. Always rinse and dry after salt sessions.

What line should I use?
Common NZ setups: 20–40 lb braid with a fluorocarbon leader (or 10–15 kg mono) depending on target and terrain.

Left or right-hand retrieve?
The reel is ambidextrous, so pick the orientation that matches your rod and preference.

In one line

A torque-first BILLINGS baitcaster with 3.8:1 gearing and 15 kg drag—light, durable, and saltwater-ready for NZ trolling and snapper missions.