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You might look for daiwa tanacom 1200 power assist alternatives if you need a different size, weight, or brand. The Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist is an electric reel built for kite and deep drop fishing. It weighs 5 pounds and features a one-size design. Some anglers prefer lighter options or specific color choices like black or silver. Others may want a kit with integrated batteries or a manual 2-speed system instead of electric power. The weight ranges from 1.76 pounds to 7.5 pounds across these choices. You might also seek a reel with higher drag power or better water resistance for heavy-duty saltwater tasks. This list includes seven options that overlap with the original in key areas like power source or fishing type. Each alternative offers distinct specifications to match your specific needs. The Daiwa Tanacom 800 provides a lightweight aluminum frame. The Penn Fathom 30 offers precise line counting. The Daiwa Sea Power 800 focuses on high line capacity. The Penn Fathom 80 delivers strong lever drag. The Penn International VIS provides manual durability. The Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP offers strong winding force. These specs help you decide which tool fits your boat and fishing style best.
How alternatives compare to the Tanacom 1200
Daiwa Tanacom 800 Electric Reel
The Daiwa Tanacom 800 is a lighter alternative at 4 pounds, compared to the 1200’s 5-pound frame. It features a compact aluminum build with dimensions of 7 by 8 inches. This model suits anglers who prioritize a smaller footprint and reduced weight for moderate to heavy-duty tasks. While the Tanacom 1200 is specialized for kite and deep drop fishing, the 800 offers automatic drag control in a more portable package. You should choose this if you need a reliable electric reel that is easier to handle on smaller boats or when weight savings matter more than the specific deep-drop capabilities of the larger model.
Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit
The Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit weighs 7.5 pounds, making it significantly heavier than the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. Its compact 3-inch dimensions contrast with the 1200’s larger form. This kit includes an integrated battery and precise line counting, which the Tanacom 1200 does not explicitly list. It is designed for anglers who value hands-free retrieve and accurate line tracking over minimal weight. If you need a complete package with advanced tracking features and do not mind the extra bulk, this is a strong option. It sacrifices the lighter feel of the Tanacom for more integrated electronic features and a robust build for serious applications.
Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel
The Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel weighs 4.65 pounds, offering a slight weight reduction over the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. It is designed specifically for sea fishing with an emphasis on high line capacity. While the Tanacom 1200 targets kite and deep drop scenarios, this reel fits anglers who prioritize lightweight design and capacity for general sea fishing. It delivers solid drag power for medium to large targets. You should pick this alternative if you want a Daiwa electric reel that is slightly lighter and optimized for high-capacity line management in sea fishing environments rather than the specialized deep-drop focus of the 1200.
PENN Fathom 80 Electric Reel
The Penn Fathom 80 Electric Saltwater Reel weighs 7.28 pounds, which is heavier than the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. It features a 40 lb lever drag and IPX6 sealing, prioritizing drag power and water resistance over weight and speed. The Tanacom 1200 lacks these specific sealing and drag ratings in its data. This reel is built for heavy-duty saltwater fishing where durability and power are critical. Choose this alternative if you need maximum drag performance and superior water resistance for serious saltwater pursuits, and you are willing to accept the additional weight compared to the lighter, more versatile Tanacom 1200.
PENN International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70
The Penn International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70 weighs 6.59 pounds, making it heavier than the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. It is a manual reel with a 2-speed system and aluminum build, lacking the electric power assist of the Tanacom. This model fits anglers who prioritize mechanical durability and heavy-duty capability over electric convenience. You should choose this if you prefer manual operation and robust construction for heavy-duty saltwater fishing. It gives up the ease of electric retrieval but offers a different mechanical experience focused on durability and speed options rather than powered assistance.
Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP Electric Reel
The Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP Electric Reel weighs only 1.76 pounds, making it much lighter than the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. Its dimensions are 6.97 by 5.04 inches, offering a different form factor. This reel provides strong winding force and reliable electric assist, fitting anglers who value Daiwa engineering and specific line capacity. You should choose this if you need a significantly lighter electric reel with strong assist power. It sacrifices the specific deep-drop and kite fishing specialization of the Tanacom 1200 for a more compact, lightweight design that still delivers powerful electric winding performance.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist Best overall | Kite and deep drop fishing | |
| 2 | Daiwa Tanacom 800 Electric Reel Also great | Anglers needing a lightweight aluminum electric reel | |
| 3 | Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit Best premium | Anglers needing precise line counting and hands-free retrieve | |
| 4 | Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel Best budget | lightweight sea fishing with high line capacity | |
| 5 | PENN Fathom 80 Electric Reel Best saltwater | Heavy-duty saltwater fishing with high drag needs | |
| 6 | PENN International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70 Also great | Manual heavy-duty saltwater fishing | |
| 7 | Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP Electric Reel Also great | Anglers needing strong electric assist |
Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist
Best for: Kite and deep drop fishing
- Reel Weight
- 5 pounds
- Power Source
- Electric
- Dimensions
- 1 × 1 × 1 inches
- Weight
- 5 pounds
The Daiwa Tanacom 1200 is an electric power assist reel designed for kite and deep drop fishing. It weighs 5 pounds. This model uses electric power for retrieval. It features a multi-color finish. You should choose this reel if you need a reliable electric option for heavy-duty saltwater applications. The 5-pound weight is a key factor for your setup.
- Electric power source for assisted retrieval
- Designed for kite and deep drop fishing
- Weighs 5 pounds
- Multi-color finish
- Heavier build at 5 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Single size option limits fit for different rod setups
- You need electric power assist for deep drop fishing
- You fish with kite techniques
- You can handle a 5-pound reel weight
- You prefer a lighter reel under 4 pounds
- You need multiple size options for different rod types
- You require a non-electric manual reel
Verdict: Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Electric Reel suits anglers who prioritize electric power assist for kite and deep drop fishing and can manage its 5-pound weight. It is a specialized tool for heavy-duty saltwater tasks.
Daiwa Tanacom 800 Electric Reel
Best for: Anglers needing a lightweight aluminum electric reel
- Bearing Count
- 4 Ball Bearings
- Drag Type
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- Frame Material
- aluminum
- Reel Weight
- 4 pounds
- Power Source
- Electric
- Dimensions
- 7 × 7 × 8 inches
The Daiwa Tanacom 800 is an electric conventional reel with a lightweight aluminum body. It weighs 4 pounds and measures 7 inches wide. The reel features an automatic tournament drag and four ball bearings. This setup suits anglers who need reliable power assist for heavy loads. Its compact dimensions make it manageable for various boat setups.
- Lightweight aluminum body construction
- Automatic tournament drag system
- Four ball bearings for smooth operation
- Compact 7-inch width
- Heavier at 4 pounds compared to some lighter competitors
- Fewer ball bearings than higher-end models
- You need a durable aluminum build for saltwater use
- You prefer automatic drag settings for tournament fishing
- You want a compact reel that fits standard rod mounts
- You require a reel lighter than 4 pounds
- You need more than four ball bearings for ultra-smooth retrieval
- You are looking for a larger size 1200 or bigger model
Verdict: Daiwa Tanacom 800 Power Assist Reel is a solid choice for anglers who prioritize a lightweight aluminum frame and automatic drag control. It fits those who need a compact, reliable electric reel for moderate to heavy-duty fishing tasks.
Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit
Best for: Anglers needing precise line counting and hands-free retrieve
- Power Source
- Electric
- Dimensions
- 3 × 3 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 7.5 pounds
The Penn Fathom 30 is a silver and black electric fishing reel designed for serious anglers. It weighs 7.5 pounds and includes an integrated lithium-ion battery, charger, and reel. The unit features a variable speed control knob and an autostop function for hands-free retrieve. An LED display shows a programmable line counter for accurate tracking. This kit suits you if you need reliable power assist and precise line management on the water.
- Integrated lithium-ion battery and charger included in the kit
- Variable speed control knob for adjustable retrieval
- Autostop feature enables hands-free retrieve
- LED display with programmable line diameter for accurate line counter
- Heavier build at 7.5 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Smaller size 30 capacity relative to larger conventional reels on this list
- Compact dimensions of 3 inches in width, height, and length limit line capacity
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You value precise line counting via a programmable LED display
- You prefer hands-free retrieve with an autostop feature
- You need a larger size 80 or 70 capacity reel
- You prefer a lighter reel under 5 pounds
- You do not want an integrated battery system
Verdict: Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit offers a complete package with integrated battery and precise line counting. It fits anglers who prioritize hands-free retrieve and accurate line tracking over maximum capacity or minimal weight.
Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel
Best for: lightweight sea fishing with high line capacity
- Gear Ratio
- 0.08 oz (2.1 g)
- Max Drag
- 66.1 lbs (30 kg)
- Line Capacity
- PE: 6-800, 8-600, 10-500
- Reel Weight
- 7.6 oz (2,110 g)
- Fishing Type
- Sea Fishing
- Power Source
- Electric
The Daiwa Sea Power 800 is a budget electric reel for sea fishing. It weighs 7.6 oz and offers a maximum drag of 66.1 lbs. The gear ratio is 0.08 oz. It winds PE 6 line up to 800 yards. This model suits anglers targeting medium to large fish who need reliable power without extra features.
- Maximum drag force of 66.1 lbs (30 kg)
- Lightweight build at 7.6 oz
- High line capacity for PE 6 up to 800 yards
- Regular winding speed of 120 m/min under 2.2 lbs load
- Lower maximum drag force of 66.1 lbs compared to larger 1200 models
- Smaller line capacity for PE 8 and PE 10 compared to larger variants
- Heavier shipping weight of 4.65 pounds due to packaging
- You need a lightweight electric reel for medium to large sea fish
- You prefer basic performance without complex settings
- You want a Daiwa electric reel with high PE line capacity
- You require maximum drag force above 66.1 lbs
- You need to wind PE 10 line beyond 500 yards
- You prefer a reel with advanced power assist features
Verdict: Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel fits anglers who prioritize lightweight design and high line capacity for sea fishing. It delivers solid drag power for medium to large targets.
PENN Fathom 80 Electric Reel
Best for: Heavy-duty saltwater fishing with high drag needs
- Gear Ratio
- 1.6:1
- Max Drag
- 40lb|18.1kg
- Bearing Count
- 5
- Drag Type
- lever drag
- Line Capacity
- 2085/40 1780/50 1480/65
- Reel Weight
- 7.28 pounds
The PENN Fathom 80 is a saltwater electric reel built on the Fathom II platform. It features a 1.6:1 gear ratio and recovers 16 inches per turn. The 40 lb lever drag handles heavy loads, while the brushless motor provides consistent power. A replaceable lithium-ion battery pack offers cordless fishing. The IPX6 sealed compartment protects against water. This reel suits anglers targeting large species in marine environments.
- 40 lb max drag for heavy-duty saltwater fishing
- IPX6 sealed battery and motor compartment
- Replaceable lithium-ion battery pack for cordless use
- 5 stainless steel bearings for smooth operation
- Digital line counter with autostop feature
- Heavier build at 7.28 pounds
- Slower 1.6:1 gear ratio limits retrieval speed
- Lower line capacity compared to larger conventional reels
- You target large saltwater species like sailfish
- You need a cordless electric reel for boat fishing
- You require a robust lever drag system
- You prefer a lighter reel for long hours
- You need a faster gear ratio for quick retrieval
- You want a reel with a higher line capacity
Verdict: PENN Fathom 80 Electric Saltwater Reel fits anglers who prioritize drag power and water resistance over weight and speed. Its 40 lb lever drag and IPX6 sealing make it a solid choice for serious saltwater pursuits.
PENN International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70
Best for: Manual heavy-duty saltwater fishing
- Frame Material
- Aluminum
- Reel Weight
- 6.59 pounds
- Dimensions
- 1 × 1 × 1 inches
- Weight
- 6.59 pounds
This is a manual conventional reel with an aluminum body and stainless steel gears. It features a 2-speed system and a 6.59-pound frame. You get a Dura-Drag system and an adjustable strike stop. It suits anglers who prefer mechanical reliability over electric power. The gold finish and machined construction offer durability for heavy-duty saltwater fishing.
- Machined aluminum body and side plates
- Stainless steel main and pinion gears
- Quick-shift II 2-speed system
- Dura-Drag system for consistent pressure
- Heavier at 6.59 pounds compared to lighter electric alternatives
- Manual operation requires more physical effort than power assist reels
- Single size 70 option limits versatility for smaller setups
- You want a durable manual reel with a 2-speed system
- You prefer aluminum construction for saltwater resistance
- You need a heavy-duty reel for big game fishing
- You require an electric power assist reel
- You need a lightweight reel for extended casting
- You want multiple size options for different boat setups
Verdict: PENN International VIS 2 Speed 70 offers robust manual performance with a 2-speed system and aluminum build. It fits anglers prioritizing mechanical durability and heavy-duty capability over electric convenience.
Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP Electric Reel
Best for: Anglers needing strong electric assist
- Gear Ratio
- 3.6
- Max Drag
- 3.5 lbs (16 kg)
- Line Capacity
- PE: 4-500/5-400/6-300
- Reel Weight
- 28.7 oz (800 g)
- Power Source
- Electric
- Dimensions
- 7.76 × 6.97 × 5.04 inches
The Daiwa S500JP is a 2023 model electric reel designed for high-performance fishing. It features a 3.6 gear ratio and winds 21.7 inches of line per turn. The drag force reaches 3.5 lbs, and the maximum winding force is 165 lbs. Weighing 28.7 oz, it suits anglers needing reliable power assist for heavy loads without excessive bulk.
- 3.6 gear ratio for efficient line retrieval
- 21.7 inches of winding length per turn
- 3.5 lbs drag force for heavy fish
- 165 lbs maximum winding force
- 28.7 oz weight is heavier than some lighter alternatives
- 3.5 lbs drag is lower than high-end conventional reels
- You need a Daiwa electric reel with proven power assist
- You fish with PE lines in the 4-500 range
- You prioritize winding force over minimal weight
- You require a gear ratio higher than 3.6
- You need a reel under 25 oz for long casting
- You prefer non-electric conventional reels
Verdict: Daiwa S500JP Electric Reel offers strong winding force for anglers who need reliable electric assist. It fits those who value Daiwa engineering and specific line capacity over ultra-light designs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Power Assist | Daiwa Tanacom 800 Electric Reel | Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit | Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel | PENN Fathom 80 Electric Reel | PENN International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70 | Daiwa Leo Blitz S500JP Electric Reel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | – | – | – | 0.08 oz (2.1 g) | 1.6:1 | – | 3.6 |
| Max Drag | – | – | – | 66.1 lbs (30 kg) | 40lb|18.1kg | – | 3.5 lbs (16 kg) |
| Bearing Count | – | 4 Ball Bearings | – | – | 5 | – | – |
| Drag Type | – | Automatic Tournament Drag | – | – | lever drag | – | – |
| Frame Material | – | aluminum | – | – | – | Aluminum | – |
| Line Capacity | – | – | – | PE: 6-800, 8-600, 10-500 | 2085/40 1780/50 1480/65 | – | PE: 4-500/5-400/6-300 |
| Reel Weight | 5 pounds | 4 pounds | – | 7.6 oz (2,110 g) | 7.28 pounds | 6.59 pounds | 28.7 oz (800 g) |
| Fishing Type | – | – | – | Sea Fishing | – | – | – |
| Use | – | – | – | – | Saltwater | – | – |
| Power Source | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric | – | Electric |
| Dimensions | 1 × 1 × 1 inches | 7 × 7 × 8 inches | 3 × 3 × 3 inches | – | 3 × 3 × 1 inches | 1 × 1 × 1 inches | 7.76 × 6.97 × 5.04 inches |
| Weight | 5 pounds | 4 pounds | 7.5 pounds | 4.65 pounds | 7.28 pounds | 6.59 pounds | 1.76 pounds |
| Size | One Size | 800 | 30 | 800 | 80 | 70 | 500JP |
| Color | Multi | Black | Silver/Black | ﾌﾞﾙｰ | Silver/Black | Gold | black |
| Model | TANACOM1200 | TANACOM800 | FTH30ELKIT | 00810034 | FTH80EL | INT70VIS | 00810040 |
Frequently asked questions
Which electric reel is lighter than the Tanacom 1200?
The Daiwa S500JP Electric Reel is the lightest option at 1.76 pounds. It is significantly lighter than the 5-pound Tanacom 1200. This model offers strong winding force for anglers needing reliable electric assist. Its compact dimensions make it a practical choice for those prioritizing reduced weight in their setup.
Is there a manual alternative to the electric Tanacom 1200?
Yes, the Penn International VIS 2-Speed Reel Size 70 is a manual option. It features a robust aluminum build and a 2-speed system. This reel suits anglers who prioritize mechanical durability and heavy-duty capability over electric convenience. It weighs 6.59 pounds, making it a sturdy choice for serious saltwater pursuits.
Which reel offers the highest drag power for saltwater?
The Penn Fathom 80 Electric Saltwater Reel provides 40 lb of lever drag. It is designed for heavy-duty saltwater fishing with high drag needs. The reel features IPX6 sealing for water resistance. It weighs 7.28 pounds, prioritizing drag power and durability over minimal weight or speed for serious anglers.
What is the best budget-friendly electric reel option?
The Daiwa Sea Power 800 Electric Reel is the best budget choice. It fits anglers who prioritize lightweight design and high line capacity for sea fishing. Weighing 4.65 pounds, it delivers solid drag power for medium to large targets. This model is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective electric solution without sacrificing performance.
Which electric reel includes a battery and line counter?
The Penn Fathom 30 Electric Reel Kit offers a complete package with an integrated battery. It provides precise line counting for accurate tracking during retrieves. This kit suits anglers who prioritize hands-free operation and precise line management. It weighs 7.5 pounds, offering a comprehensive solution for those needing detailed fishing data.
Are there smaller electric reels available as alternatives?
The Daiwa Tanacom 800 Electric Reel is a compact alternative. It measures 7 by 8 inches and weighs 4 pounds. This model features an aluminum frame and automatic drag control. It is a solid choice for anglers needing a smaller, reliable electric reel for moderate to heavy-duty fishing tasks without the bulk of larger models.
