Abstract: A portable hand held type fishing reel having a motor operably connected with the spool member of the reel for facilitating winding of the fishing line onto the spool without interference with the normal operation of the fishing reel, the motor being operably connected with a switch by a battery pack which may be remotely disposed with respect to the reel, a drive assembly connected with the spool member and selectively operable upon energization of the motor for winding of the line onto the spool, the drive assembly including a pivotal lever having a normal position wherein the drive connection between the motor and spool is disengaged and selectively movable to provide an engaged position between the motor and spool, the lever being particularly designed whereby the driving engagement between the motor and spool is achieved prior to energization of the motor to substantially preclude accidental damage of the engaged driving elements.