Daiwa Electric Reels: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Close-up of a mounted Daiwa electric fishing reel with digital controls and tightly spooled line, positioned on a rod over open ocean water under a bright sky.

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When the bite is deep, literally, there’s no substitute for power, precision, and performance. That’s where Daiwa electric reels excel. Whether you're chasing fall swordfish at 1,800 feet or flying a kite for trophy bluefin tuna, Daiwa’s lineup of electric reels takes the heavy lifting out of offshore fishing. Engineered with cutting-edge power-assist reel technology and built for maximum endurance, these reels are more than just smart, they're workhorses.

For decades, Daiwa has led the charge in reel innovation, and its electric offerings reflect the brand’s deep understanding of sportfishing demands. This brand truly understands the needs of the hardcore angler. This guide is built to help you understand what sets these reels apart, how to choose the right model, and what technology lies beneath their sleek looks.

Man seated on a boat in camo outerwear, gloves, and a cap uses a Daiwa electric reel, gripping a bent fishing rod over calm ocean water beneath a cloudy sky.

The Electric Reels by Daiwa Lineup: Tanacom, Seaborg, and Seapower

Tanacom Series

The versatile Daiwa Tanacom Power Assist Electric Reels are Daiwa’s most approachable electric reel line, but don’t mistake “entry-level” for underpowered. Tanacom reels are compact, efficient, and engineered for ease of use with a new LCD display screen, variable speed control, and a function to automatically stop. The Tanacom 500 and Tanacom 750 are favorites among anglers targeting deep/benthic species, whether that’s rockfish, lingcod, sablefish, or deep-dwelling groupers. With a smooth drag and durable gearing, these reels make deep drop fishing accessible without sacrificing reliability.

While deep drop fishing below the water’s surface is what electric reels are best known for, this series of reels adds a whole new dimension to kite fishing reels. Due to their lightweight and compact size, the reduced weight of Tanacom reels greatly improves portability and ease of use, allowing a level of mobility that in the past was cumbersome to kite fishermen. Thanks to their improved mobility, anglers can be more effective in transitioning from starboard to port and vice versa to accurately place offerings perfectly in feed zones. These smaller reels still offer plenty of line capacity for kite fishing and sufficient power to get the job done at an affordable range.

Seapower Series

When things get more serious, electric reel anglers should consider stepping up to the next level. Reasons to step up might include some or all of these examples. Extensive, daily use; targeting larger fish; presenting heavier bait; or kite fishing in consistently strong winds. These scenarios demand greater torque, consistent performance, advanced features, and increased line capacity.

The Daiwa Seapower Power Assist Electric Reels are where affordability meets raw muscle. Positioned between the Tanacom and Seaborg lines, Sea Power reels deliver serious torque for anglers looking to step up their game. These reels offer increased lifting power for retrieving heavy fishing sinkers and deeper drops, especially in strong currents or when using multiple-hook bottom rigs. Designed with commercial-grade performance in mind, Sea Power reels are often favored by anglers who fish frequently and aggressively, but still want a clean, intuitive interface.

Daiwa Seapower Power Assist Electric Reels

Now From: $1,099.99

Expected To Be From: $1,199.99

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Seaborg Series

If you’ve heard the term “Don’t bring a knife to a gunfight.”, then you’re probably very familiar with the demands of swordfishing. Any angler who’s hooked one of these beasts with the mindset of saving a few dollars on subpar gear has likely learned the hard way, this isn’t the time or place to cut corners. With that said, this is where the Daiwa Seaborg G Power Assist Electric Reels shine!

If the Tanacom is your daily driver and the Sea Power is your work truck, then the Seaborg is the high-performance machine. These reels blend brute strength with advanced fishing intelligence. Models like the Seaborg 1200MJ feature Daiwa’s MEGATWIN motor system, allowing anglers to toggle between high speed and high-power modes depending on the fight. The Jog Power Lever puts fingertip control right where it matters most, ideal for precision lifting during sensitive fights with deep-sea species like swordfish, deepwater starry grouper, golden tilefish, snowy grouper, and it's even used for bluefin tuna fishing.

Three men on a boat pose with a giant tuna and a Daiwa electric reel. One holds the rod, another supports the fish. Background shows overcast sky and ocean.

Choosing the Right Electric Reel

Deep Sea, Deep Considerations

Choosing the right reel starts with your fishing technique. If you’re working depths of 600–1200 feet for bottom species with relatively modest drag requirements, the Tanacom 750 or 1200 will likely meet your needs. These models offer enough line capacity and cranking strength to haul up your catch with consistency, without causing excessive fatigue. Many reels can automatically stop retrieving when the lure reaches the desired depth or the water's surface, making deep drop fishing much easier and more efficient.

Anglers who specialize in kite fishing for pelagics like bluefin or yellowfin tuna typically fall into two camps: those who need a lightweight, affordable option for mobility, such as the Tanacom 500 or 750, and those who need a high-speed, high-torque reel like the Seaborg 800MJ. For the latter, the responsiveness of the Jog Power Lever is a major asset when adjusting kite lines on the fly.

For extreme depths or swordfishing, the Seaborg 1200MJ is the standout. Its ability to deliver torque and line capacity at scale ensures you won’t be undergunned when that 400-pounder takes the bait.

Rod Matching and Setup

While reels get the spotlight, your rod must be built to handle the demands of electric reel fishing. Look for rods designed to support electric reels, featuring reinforced reel seats and sturdy guides. Balance is key. Pairing a compact Tanacom 500 with a stiff swordfishing rod may underutilize the reel, while strapping a Seaborg 1200MJ to a lighter deep drop rod can lead to fatigue and hardware stress.

Budget and Value

Electric reels by Daiwa range from around $600 for entry-level Tanacom models to well over $1,500 for top-tier Seaborg models. While Seaborg reels represent the pinnacle of electric technology, the Tanacom line remains one of the most popular in the world for its unbeatable value. For anglers looking to get into electric fishing or outfit a second setup, Tanacom models offer reliability and performance at a at a reasonable cost.

If you’re a high-frequency angler or guide, the longevity, control, and power of a Seaborg may be well worth the investment. Either way, every model in the lineup is backed by Daiwa’s reputation for quality and service, and Melton Tackle’s commitment to expert support.

The Technology Inside: Why Daiwa Stands Out

Electric Power Assist: The Game Changer

Daiwa’s Power Assist reels are engineered for effortless cranking at serious depths. Whether you're retrieving 1,000 feet of line or dragging up a stubborn tilefish, the motor takes the load off your body without compromising on torque. In many models, anglers can switch between manual and automatic operation, allowing for precise control when fighting fish and full motor support when retrieving rigging or checking baits.

Jog Power Lever and MEGATWIN Motor

One of Daiwa’s standout innovations is the Jog Power Lever, a control feature that allows anglers to make fine adjustments to speed and tension without lifting their hand off the reel. It’s a game-changer for staying in control mid-fight.

The MEGATWIN motor system, available in Seaborg models, allows you to switch between Speed Mode for quick retrieves and Power Mode for heavy lifting. This dual-mode versatility is particularly valuable when fighting species with unpredictable runs or when switching between fishing styles on the same trip.

Materials and Construction

All Daiwa reels are built to endure harsh offshore environments. Features like sealed electronics, anodized aluminum frames, and magsealed bearings keep water intrusion at bay. The drag systems are buttery smooth and incredibly durable, with top-end models offering max drag pressure upward of 50 lbs.

Each reel is designed not just for performance, but for longevity. With regular rinsing and basic maintenance, these reels are capable of years of hard use, even in corrosive saltwater conditions.

When it comes to electric reels, it's hard to compare to Daiwa. From the price-conscious power of the Daiwa Tanacom to the mid-tier muscle of the Sea Power, to the feature-rich precision of the Seaborg, there’s a Daiwa electric reel suited for every angler’s goals and budget.

Electric reels aren’t just a luxury, they provide a strategic advantage. And with Daiwa’s technology, craftsmanship, and proven track record, you’re investing in performance that pays off every time the rod bends.

Whether you’re gearing up for your first deep drop or building out your high-end kite setup, Melton Tackle will help you find the perfect match for your next offshore adventure.