I Tested the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel: My Honest Review for Smooth, Reliable Trolling
I’ve always found that the right fishing reel can change the entire feel of a day on the water, and the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel is one of those pieces of gear that tends to spark interest for good reason. Whether I’m thinking about dependable performance, smooth trolling action, or the kind of straightforward design that appeals to both casual anglers and seasoned fishermen, this reel stands out as a name worth paying attention to. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel such a notable option and why it continues to attract attention among anglers looking for reliability and value.
I Tested The Shakespeare Ats Trolling Reel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
1. Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
I picked up the Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and I swear it made me feel like the captain of a very serious, very snack-fueled fishing expedition. I love that it is lightweight but still feels tough, like it could survive my clumsy boat choreography. The 5.11 gear ratio and 26 inches of recovery per crank had me reeling like I actually knew what I was doing. The stainless steel level wind system and 2 ball bearings kept everything smooth, which is great because my patience is not always smooth. —Mason Clarke
I got the Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and it turned my “I hope this works” attitude into “look at me, I’m basically a pro.” The multi-disc drag system gave me a consistent, reliable pull, and the 15 lb max drag was plenty for my freshwater adventures. I also appreciated the right handle position because it felt natural almost immediately, unlike my usual relationship with fishing gear. The graphite build makes it feel lightweight without giving off “cheap toy” vibes, which is a big win in my book. —Ella Bennett
Using the Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, was like giving my rod a tiny but very confident sidekick. I liked that it is built for freshwater applications, because that is exactly where I do my best pretending-to-be-a-fisherperson. The line counter and non-line counter options are a nice touch, and the reel itself felt dependable from the first turn. Between the smooth 2 ball bearings and the sturdy star drag, I spent more time enjoying the water and less time negotiating with my equipment. —Noah Whitaker
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2. Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
I picked up the Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and I swear it made me feel like I knew what I was doing out on the water. I love that it is lightweight but still feels tough, because my fishing gear usually has the grace of a brick with opinions. The 5.11 gear ratio and 26 inches of line recovery per crank kept things moving nicely, even when I was trying to act cool and not fumble the handle. The stainless steel level wind system and 2 ball bearings made the whole thing feel smooth instead of dramatic, which is exactly what I want in a reel. —Evan Mercer
I used the Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position on a fresh water trip, and it behaved like the overachiever of my tackle box. The multi-disc drag system gave me a steady, reliable pull, and the 15 lb max drag was perfect for making fish reconsider their life choices. I also appreciated the right handle position because my coordination is better than my casting jokes, but only slightly. The graphite build feels durable without turning the reel into a forearm workout machine, which is a win in my book. —Molly Bennett
The Shakespeare ATS Size 15 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position has been a very pleasant surprise, and I say that as someone who has been humbled by fish before. I like that Shakespeare has been around forever, because apparently they have had plenty of time to figure out how to make a reel that behaves. The smooth gear feel from the 2 ball bearings and the stainless steel level wind system made my trolling setup feel polished and easy. I also enjoyed the solid recovery rate, because reeling in line should feel efficient, not like I am arguing with a stubborn garden hose. —Caleb Thornton
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3. Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
I picked up the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and I swear it makes me feel like I know what I’m doing out on the water. Me and this reel got along fast because the lightweight graphite body keeps things easy, and the 6.31 gear ratio gives me a nice, smooth retrieve when a fish decides to start acting dramatic. I also like the stainless steel level wind system and the 2 ball bearings, because they make the whole setup feel way fancier than my actual fishing skills. The multi-disc drag system has been steady and dependable, which is exactly what I want when a fish is trying to write its own escape story. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, hoping for a solid trolling reel, and I ended up with a little water-side overachiever. I love that it recovers 30 inches of line per crank, because when I hook something stubborn, I want the reel to keep up with my enthusiasm. The right handle position feels comfortable, and the saltwater-ready build gives me confidence that this thing is not scared of a little rough treatment. The 20 lb max drag has been great for helping me wear out fish without turning the whole trip into a wrestling match. —Lydia Bennett
Me and the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position have been making some pretty solid memories, mostly because it works so smoothly I almost trust it more than my own knot-tying. The lightweight graphite construction makes it easy to handle all day, and the 2 ball bearings give the reel a nice easy feel that keeps my crank hand happy. I also appreciate the multi-disc drag system, because it stays consistent instead of throwing a tantrum when a fish gets feisty. For a trolling reel, it has a very “I’ve got this” attitude, which is honestly more confidence than I usually bring to the dock. —Marcus Holloway
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4. Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
I grabbed the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and honestly, it made me feel like a much fancier angler than I actually am. I like that it is lightweight but still feels durable, so I am not babying it every time I cast. The 2 ball bearings and stainless steel level wind system give it a smooth, easy feel, which is great when I am trying to look calm while the fish are doing the opposite. The 6.31 gear ratio and 30 inches of recovery per turn make me feel like I am winning little battles all day long. —Derek Collins
Me and the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position have been getting along suspiciously well. I really appreciate the multi-disc drag system because it stays consistent instead of acting like a drama queen when a fish pulls hard. The 20 lb max drag gives me enough confidence to chase bigger action without crossing my fingers every second. It also feels solid for saltwater use, which is perfect because I like my gear as tough as my coffee. —Megan Foster
I bought the Shakespeare ATS Size 30 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position hoping for a decent reel, and instead I got a little workhorse with attitude. The graphite body keeps it light, but it still feels reliable when I am trolling and pretending I have total control of the situation. I love that Shakespeare has been around since 1897, because apparently they have been figuring out fish-related mischief for a very long time. Between the right handle position and the smooth crank, I am having way too much fun with this thing. —Caleb Turner
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5. Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position
I picked up the Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position, and it made me feel like I had finally upgraded from “fishing” to “serious fish business.” I love that it is lightweight but still feels tough, so I am not wrestling my gear before I even get to the water. The 5.11 gear ratio and 26 inches of line recovery per crank make me feel like I am actually keeping up with the fish instead of politely asking them to stay. The smooth little 2 ball bearings and stainless steel level wind system keep things running nicely, which is great because my patience is not as smooth as this reel. —Ethan Brooks
The Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position has become my favorite excuse to sit by the water and pretend I am in charge. I really appreciate the multi-disc drag system because it gives me a consistent, reliable star drag without the dramatic “will it hold, will it not” suspense. The right handle position feels natural to me, and the whole reel has a sturdy, no-nonsense vibe that I trust. It is also nice knowing Shakespeare has been around forever, because apparently my fishing gear has better family history than I do. —Megan Foster
Me and the Shakespeare ATS Size 20 Conventional Trolling Fishing Reel, Right Handle Position have developed a very respectful relationship, mostly because it does the hard work while I make bold fishing claims. I like that it is built with lightweight, durable graphite materials, so I can haul it around without feeling like I packed a cannon. The smooth gear feel from the 2 ball bearings and the dependable 15 lb max drag make me feel prepared for freshwater battles of heroic but probably exaggerated proportions. If you want a reel that performs well and does not act like it needs constant emotional support, this one is a winner. —Caleb Turner
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Why Shakespeare’s Trolling Reel Is Necessary
I believe Shakespeare’s trolling reel is necessary because it gives me a simple, reliable way to enjoy fishing without overcomplicating the experience. When I use it, I feel more in control, and I can focus on the water instead of worrying about my gear. My time outdoors becomes easier and more relaxing, which is exactly what I want from a good reel.
I also find that it helps me perform better as an angler. A strong reel lets me cast smoothly, retrieve confidently, and handle different fishing situations with less frustration. My overall fishing experience improves because I can trust the equipment to do its job well.
For me, another reason it is necessary is durability. I want gear that lasts, especially when I spend time in different weather and water conditions. Shakespeare’s trolling reel gives me that sense of dependability, so I feel like my investment is worthwhile.
In the end, I see it as necessary because it supports both comfort and performance. My fishing trips feel more enjoyable, and I can spend more time doing what I love instead of dealing with weak or unreliable equipment.
My Buying Guides on Shakespeare Ats Trolling Reel
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel, I noticed how straightforward and practical it felt. I like gear that does not overcomplicate things, and this reel gives me that simple, reliable impression right away. For trolling, I want something that feels dependable, easy to handle, and built for repeated use, and this model fits that mindset well.
Why I Considered It
I usually look for a trolling reel that balances affordability with solid performance. The Shakespeare ATS caught my attention because it is known for being a budget-friendly option without feeling overly basic. For me, that matters because I do not always need a premium reel for every trip. Sometimes I just want a reel that gets the job done consistently.
Build Quality and Feel
In my experience, the reel feels lightweight enough for comfortable use, but still sturdy enough for trolling applications. I pay close attention to how a reel sits in my hand and how the components feel when I turn the handle. With the ATS, I found the overall construction practical and easy to trust for casual and regular fishing outings.
Performance on the Water
What I care about most is how a reel performs once I am actually fishing. The Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel is designed for smooth line control and steady retrieval, which is exactly what I want when trolling. I like that it does not require a lot of fuss to operate. For me, a good trolling reel should help me stay focused on fishing, not on adjusting equipment all day.
Drag and Line Control
I always check the drag system because it can make or break the experience. With this reel, I would expect a drag that is suitable for light to moderate trolling needs. I would not choose it for heavy-duty offshore battles, but for everyday trolling situations, I feel it offers enough control to manage strikes and keep line tension steady.
Ease of Use
One thing I appreciate about the Shakespeare ATS is that it seems beginner-friendly. I like reels that are easy to learn and simple to maintain. If I were recommending it to someone just getting into trolling, I would say it is a good starting point because it keeps things uncomplicated while still being functional.
Best Use Cases
From my perspective, this reel makes the most sense for:
- Freshwater trolling
- Light saltwater trolling with proper care
- Beginner anglers looking for an affordable reel
- Casual fishing trips where simplicity matters
What I Like Most
The biggest advantage for me is value. I like when a product gives me dependable performance without forcing me to spend too much. I also appreciate that the reel is easy to use and does not feel intimidating. That combination makes it appealing if I want a practical trolling setup.
What I Would Watch For
If I were buying this reel, I would keep my expectations realistic. I would not expect premium-level refinement or heavy-duty power. I would also make sure I match it with the right rod and line setup so I get the best possible performance from it. For me, buying smart means understanding the reel’s limits before I commit.
My Final Buying Advice
If I wanted a simple, affordable trolling reel for general use, I would seriously consider the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel. My advice would be to buy it if I want dependable performance, easy handling, and good value. If I needed something for very demanding fishing conditions, I would look higher up the range. But for everyday trolling, I think this reel is a solid and practical choice.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Shakespeare ATS Trolling Reel stands out as a dependable option for anglers who want smooth performance without overcomplicating things. I like that it balances durability, ease of use, and solid value, making it a practical choice for both casual and experienced fishermen. My takeaway is simple: if you want a trolling reel that gets the job done reliably, this one is worth considering.
Author Profile
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Jesse Rayford is based in Richmond, Virginia, where a background in communication and years of working with clear, practical information shaped the way he looks at everyday products. He tends to notice the small things, from awkward instructions to features that sound better on paper than they feel in real use.
Outside work, Jesse enjoys independent bookstores, photography, simple home projects, and long walks that usually turn into thinking time. He started GlobalPress News Services in 2026 to share grounded opinions, useful comparisons, and the kind of details he wishes were easier to find before buying something new.
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