Disclosed are reel seats for use with a gripping member to provide a gripping surface on the exterior of a reel seat. The reel seat (12) may include a recessed portion (26) that extends partially or fully around a portion of the reel seat. The recessed portion may be configured to receive a gripping member (18) that may be adhered to the recessed portion. The gripping member may include multiple layers designed to provide a comfortable grip and maximum sensitivity to an angler using the reel seat.
