Types Of Fishing Reels And What They Are Used For

February 05, 2019

Whether you are a pro angler or new to fishing, it is important to outfit your fishing rod with a suitable reel as each type requires a different level of function and skill. However, it isn’t a simple task since there are seemingly hundreds of options available to choose from. To save your time, this post will show you some common types of fishing reels and what they are used for. Armed with the right information, you can make an informed decision to choose the right option for your needs.

1. Fly fishing reel
As the name implies, this type of reel is used for fly fishing. This process often uses a reel and fly rod which features a special weighted line. What makes fly fishing reels different from other types is that its weighted line carries the hook and lure via the air while in spin and bait fishing the hook and lure’s weight give the casting its distance and weight. 

Fly fishing reels can be an effective option as they require less reeling. With a high level of retrieval, you can have a much quicker rate in each crank. A major drawback of this type is that it is often more expensive than other options on the market. Many people often think that the use of fly fishing reel can be very limited. However, it can be used in both freshwater and saltwater, and work on different types of fish like drum, carp, pike, salmon, bass, or trout. 

2. Spincast reel
Spincast reels come with a closed face where every part is kept under the nose cone. The back features a button that you could press in the forward cast to peel out the fishing line from a small hole. The line will stop when you release this button. If you are a beginner to fishing and do this activity a few times per year, then this type of fishing reel can be a good option due to its ease of use. Also, it can work well for small fish in freshwater conditions. For pro anglers, spincast reels are good for targeting small salmon, trout, channel catfish, or average-sized bass.

3. Spinning reel
The biggest difference between spinning reels and other styles is that their spool is typically mounted parallel to the underside of the rod. And this part remains stationary when you cast. This is by far the most popular type of fishing reel simply because it can be used by pros and amateur anglers alike. Its open-faced design delivers superior precision and ease of use. In most cases, spinning reels can work great on smaller bait fish thanks to the lightweight designs. However, many modern units can target big fish as well. This makes it one of the most versatile reels with large capacities for the fishing line.

4. Baitcaster reel
It can be challenging to master baitcaster reels because their spool can turn when casting. The drag system is complex and specially designed for big fish. Thus, they aren’t a suitable choice for new anglers. Instead, you need to have a lot of maintenance knowledge and patient to troubleshoot effectively. This type of reel is often used by experienced anglers who want to participate in fishing tournaments or wield heavy fishing line. It can be used for all sizes and species of freshwater fish such as catfish, bass, and more. Another drawback is that there are many parts to clean and maintain. So if you want to go fishing for fun, then it is better to go for other options.

Conclusion
The best fishing reel will depend on many factors such as the fishing environment, skill level, or type of fish you want to catch. This means a good unit for pro anglers won’t necessarily suit your needs. Thus, it is important to understand the available options and make an educated decision.

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