A fishing reel is an imperative part of the overall fishing pole. It is the device that will not only help wind and stow the line, but it will also help in the casting process in terms of accuracy and distance, while making line retrieval far easier as well. That being said, it’s important to find a fishing reel that’s right for you. We’re going to discuss the different types of fishing reels and what they do.
Different Types of Fishing Reels
We’re going to dive into the realm of fishing reels, to the most popular devices and easy to use reels to the more difficult and obscure pieces of equipment. We’ll be discussing a variety of reels, from types of freshwater fishing reels to types of reels for saltwater fishing and everything in between.
Spincast Fishing Reels
When it comes to the spincast fishing reel, it is undeniably the easiest and cheapest reel on the market. It’s mostly used by brand new fishermen (including children and young adults) who are just starting out, as it’s a cheap option that doesn’t require time or investment to learn and understand.
The great thing about this fishing reel is its ease of use. It is designed with a handy push button release, which means you can point and release in seconds. Not only is the release a cinch, but untangling is a breeze as you can simply open the bail and pull through any tangles along the line- easy!
However, while the spincast fishing reel is a super simple device that can catch some lightweight game, it doesn’t have a lot of distance and its lightweight action makes it almost impossible to catch larger game. Spincast fishing reels should be used for minor fishing of lightweight game in a smaller area.
Baitcasting Fishing Reels
A baitcasting fishing reel is undeniably one of the more popular devices in the fishing industry, mostly because of its incredible accuracy when it comes to casting. Not only is this reel extremely accurate, but you don’t have to worry about the line ‘twisting’ as it is being released into the water. It also has a much further distance capability than the spincast fishing reel.
You have options when it comes to baitcasting reels: lightweight and heavy, depending on the game you’re trying to catch. Remember that smaller fish will only need a lightweight reel, while larger game like bass will require a heavy baitcasting reel; so if you’re wondering what type of reel is best for bass fishing, we highly recommend a heavy baitcasting fishing reel.
With a baitcasting reel, it’s all about accuracy and control. However, it’s important to note that this particular reel will require a little bit more skill to handle. You’ll need to learn how to use this reel, but with enough time and effort, it will soon become a breeze to use.
That being said, baitcasting fishing reels shouldn’t be used by brand new fishermen. But if you’re willing to step up to the challenge and learn this accurate device, you’ll be glad you took the time to do so.
Spinning Fishing Reel
A spinning reel is similar to a spincast reel in that they are both very easy to use. However, a spinning fishing reel will differ in the way it’s released. While the spincast uses a push button to release the line, a spinning fishing reel will be ‘snapped’ up and down. When it is snapped up, the line releases. When it is snapped back down, the it will stop. This allows for plenty of distance when it comes to fishing.
This type of spinning fishing reel is one of the best types of freshwater reels as it can handle the quick streams and rivers with ease, but it’s also one of the most prominent types of reels for saltwater fishing as it can handle larger game like bass without a challenge.
For spinning fishing reels, it’s all about accuracy and distance. It can handle long distances, has great control, and the line can be released and drawn back with ease. It’s a great choice for fishermen at any level as it is a simple device to learn, but has so many possibilities.
Aside from its ease of use and accuracy, a spinning fishing reel is also cost-effective. In some cases you can find a spinning fishing reel that is just as cheap as a spincast reel, but there are also more pricey models on the market as well.
Surf Casting Reel
Surf reels are specifically designed to handle the roughness of the surf, which makes them the ideal types of reels for saltwater fishing, especially if you’re in a tough area of the sea. Thy will typically be made using graphite or aluminum materials, or sometimes both, with stainless steel balls that can withstand potential corrosion. They also offer long, accurate lines to catch a variety of creatures of the surf from small to large.
Offshore Casting Reel
Offshore casting reels are probably the toughest models on the market, and are specifically designed to not only handle the harsh conditions of salt water and the sea, but are made durable enough to handle the largest of game. Struggles with a shark? It’s no problem for the offshore casting reel, which is built tough to take on ANY challenge that comes its way.
Trolling Casting Reel
Sometimes referred to as simply a ‘casting reel’, the trolling reel is uniquely made for those who are doing some deep sea fishing. This type of casting reel will have a fairly lengthy line capability, but must also be durable to handle the creatures located far below.
Fly Fishing Casting Reel
Fly fishing casting reels are specifically made for fly fishing, which means they offer the most accurate casting available in the industry. They are lightweight reels that get the job done, and their durability is insane. Incredibly handy and accurate, any avid fly fisher should invest in a casting reel specifically designed for fly fishing.
How to Choose the Right Type of Fishing Reels for Your Needs
There are several thing to take into consideration before purchasing a fishing reel. Some of the things to keep in mind include the following:
- Your skill level. If you are brand new to the fishing world, you’re more than likely going to want to start off with a spincasting reel. These are incredibly easy to use and they’re cheaper than other reels on the market. New fishers will be able to quickly and easily release their line with no learning or skill necessary. However, you also have the option of trying your hand at a spinning reel is you think that the snapping motion is preferable for you.
Those who are more comfortable with fishing can graduate onto the baitcasting models if desired. These models are likely to be used as they offer the more precision when fishing and can be used in a variety of locations, whether you’re sticking to freshwater game or going deep into the sea for some tough, heavy creatures.
- Your price range. Price should always be a factor when purchasing a reel. Newer fishers out there will want to stick to a cheaper model, which will likely be a type of spincast or spinning reel. More advanced fishermen who fish often should spend a little extra on their reel, especially if dealing with heavier creates that can tug generously on your line.
- The game you’re after. Depending on the type of game you’re trying to catch, you should buy appropriately. Smaller, lightweight game can work well with a cheap spinning reel, while large bass and other heavy game will need a sturdier model, most likely a baitcasting reel.
Conclusion
There are many different types of fishing reels, the most common being spincast, spinning, and baitcast. Choosing the right reel will depend solely on the fishermans skill level, price range, and individual needs based off of the type of fishing they will be doing. Take great care in choosing a fishing reel as this will be one of the most important factors when it comes to catching game.
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