Choosing a reel is a key step that determines the comfort and success of your fishing trip. But in order not to make a mistake, it is worthwhile to understand the classification. Learn more about the different fishing reel types and their features to find the best one.
Different Kinds of Fishing Reels
When selecting the type of reel, fishermen need to consider where they are going to fish and what style they prefer. It is also important to evaluate their experience. Consider a little bit of statistics:
- Spinning reels are the most in demand in the United States. According to research, they account for 33% of the total market;
- Baitcasting fishing reels are only a few percent behind (accounting for up to 25%). The lower popularity is due to the fact that only professionals buy them;
- In third place are large marine reels: 10-15%. Their popularity is lower, as they are highly specialized and used most often only by experienced fishermen;
- Spincasts account for 10-12% of the market. If we talk about the major customers type, such reels are most often bought for beginners or children;
- Fly reels round out the list of the most popular types. They account for only 7-10% of the market, but they are especially in demand in Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming.
Let's look at the main types and talk about their characteristics.
Spinning Reels
This is the most frequently used and universal reel type in the industry. It can be recommended to fishermen with different experience and skills.
There are ultra-light models that are suitable for ice fishing and massive ones for marine waters. The peculiarity of this reel is that it is situated under the rod. This improves balancing. The design is open, in the upper part there is a mechanism for adjusting the resistance. A metal hook is installed to prevent the line from winding up. This construction ensures a high level of control.
Spincast Reels
Spincast reels are an affordable option for novice fishers and children, as their main feature is their ease of use. They are appropriate for everyday fishing in rivers and ponds for small fish such as carp, trout or crappie.
Spincast has a closed cone design, meaning the reel is inside a protective case. Thanks to this, the risk that the line will get tangled or form knots during casting and retrieving is minimized. The spincast reel is positioned above the rod. Easy casting/retrieving are ensured by push-button control. At the same time, there is a function to adjust the resistance that the fish will experience when pulling the line.
A few words about how to fish. After the fisher presses the button, he should cast and release the button. The line will move under the weight of the bait or lure. To stop the release, all the angler has to do is press the button.
Baitcasting Reels
Of the different types of fishing reels, this one is the most sophisticated and powerful. They are designed for experienced anglers as they have many adjustment options and moving parts. It takes skill to master casting. This reel is used for fishing offshore and inshore. It will work well if the fisherman is targeting strong and big fish. But anglers need practice to avoid tangling the line.
The reel has a semi-closed design and is located at the top of the rod. Next to the handle, there is a pulling mechanism, and to regulate the speed of the line deployment and increase productivity there is a brake system and a handle for tensioning the spool. When casting, the weight of fish baits and lures plays a major role, as they pull the line behind them. The size of the reel can vary, it all relies on the kind/size of the fish.
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Fly Fishing Reels
This reel is the most narrow profile. Recommended for seasoned anglers. When using this reel flies imitate the naturalistic behavior of fish. Appropriate for rivers and ponds. Casting is pretty easy, but it takes time to learn how to use this reel. When casting, the weight of the line, not the lure, plays a decisive role so that even light flies can be cast over a considerable distance. Therefore, choose the type of line that suits your particular style of fishing and fish size. There are different retrieval and pulling systems.
Saltwater Conventional Reels
This is the best type of fishing reel for catching big fish. It is used in salt water or surf. Requires a certain amount of skill to use, so it is not the best choice for beginners. Saltwater reels are quite general-purpose and have a lot of variations, so anglers can match various styles of fishery. If the goal is long-distance casting, a reel with an open design is better, and for classic casting fishers should prefer a round reel. The most popular models are presented in the fishing Gear shop.
If we compare it with other types of fishing reels, then saltwater conventional allows fishermen to most subtly feel the vibrations of the line. The location is also specific, it is placed perpendicular to the rod. A star- or lever drag mechanism is available.
Comparing Types of Fishing Reels
We've previously noted what skills are needed to use different kinds of reels, as well as for fishing in which waters they are designed. Now let's explore the weaknesses and strengths of different fishing reel types.
| Fishing reel types | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Spinning | Universality | Not very high accuracy |
| Wide price range | ||
| Better control | Not suitable for heavy fishing lines | |
| Can generate serious traction | ||
| Spincast | Easy to use | Limited casting range |
| Difficult to tangle the line | Not very durable: plastic is often used for manufacturing; debris and water accumulate in the closed design. So frequently Spincast last 1 or 2 seasons | |
| Suitable for one-handed casting | Limited casting range | |
| Affordable price | Not suitable for heavy fishing lines | |
| Baitcasting | Provides the greatest pulling power | The line is easy to tangle |
| High throwing accuracy and durability | ||
| Heavy fishing lines can be used | Fisherman needs to adjust the settings every time depending on the lure being used | |
| Long distances | ||
| Fly Fishing | Robust construction | Not universal |
| Quick fish retrieval | ||
| Causes minimal damage when caught and released | More expensive than many other reel types | |
| Easy to cast | ||
| Saltwater Conventional | Speed control is provided | Difficult to transport due to large size |
| Adapted for various styles of fishing | High price |
How to choose Fishing Reel
To choose the best variant of different reels and fishing rods, you need to decide on these parameters:
- In what conditions and locations do you plan to fish: rivers, coastal zone, sea or ponds;
- What budget you are counting on;
- What style of fishing do you prefer and what size line do you use;
- What kind of fish (not only the type of reel but also fishing tools and accessories will depend on its size);
- What your skills and experience are.
Still couldn't figure it out? Ask for help from professionals
Consultants who specialize in fishing equipment can help you find the right reel for your needs. There are options to suit every budget and skill set.
Write to the Fishmak store online chat and get a quick response from the professionals.
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