Welcome to The Reel Authority
The Reel Authority (thereelauthority.com), a publication of Viking Trading Group LLC, is a practical fishing tackle, marine electronics, rigging, and angling resource for freshwater and saltwater anglers. We cover spinning and baitcasting reels, rods, braided and fluorocarbon lines, fish finders and chartplotters, kayak rigging, and regional fishing guides.
Our Mission & Research Approach
Our goal is to help anglers choose tackle that matches their target species, water conditions, and budget using concrete specifications rather than hype. Instead of vague adjectives, our guides focus on measurable tackle mechanics: gear ratios, inches per turn (IPT), maximum drag ratings in pounds, spool diameter and line capacity, rod power and blank action tapers, tippet diameter in millimeters, and water temperature bands.
Most of our product reviews and comparisons are research-based. We compile and cross-check them against official manufacturer engineering sheets, schematic diagrams, verified owner feedback, and published marine electronics documentation. Our guides on rigging techniques, seasonal fish behavior, and public water access are researched using state fish and wildlife agency regulations, NOAA hydrographic and tide data, and established angling reference texts.
Who We Are & First-Hand Experience
The founder behind The Reel Authority fishes regularly across New England freshwater lakes, rivers, and Atlantic saltwater fisheries and has used some of the rods, reels, and tackle covered on the site. When a review includes our own time on the water, we state that clearly in the article. For products we have not fished in person, we clearly disclose that the analysis is built from manufacturer specifications, independent lab line tests, and verified angler reports. We do not invent testing claims, and we strive to keep every comparison accurate and practical.
Corrections, Ownership & Disclosures
If you spot an error or a specification that a manufacturer has updated for a new model year, please let us know via our Contact Us page and we will verify and update the article. For full details on our verification workflow and how this site is funded, please read our Editorial Policy and Affiliate Disclosure.
Publisher Information:
The Reel Authority is operated by Viking Trading Group LLC, 444a N Main Street, #300, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.