Fishing reels come in all shapes and sizes and can be used for a variety of purposes. Depending on the type of fish you are trying to catch, as well as the type of water you are fishing in, different types of reels can be more or less effective.
Knowing what type of fishing reel is best suited for your needs will help increase your chances of success when out on the water.
1. Spinning Reel
The spinning reel is the most popular type of reel for recreational anglers because it’s easy to use and can be used for a wide variety of fish species. Spinning reels feature a stationary spool that is mounted below the rod and the line is released from this spool when casting.
They are usually made from aluminum or graphite and have either a manual or automatic bail arm that wraps the line around the spool after casting.
2. Baitcasting Reel
Baitcasting reels are designed to cast heavier baits with greater accuracy than spinning reels can.
They feature an open-faced design that allows users to see their bait while they’re fishing and make adjustments if necessary.
Baitcasting reels require some practice in order to master, but once you do they provide great control over casts and retrieves.
The main downside to baitcasting reels is that they can be heavier than other types of fishing reels, making them more difficult to handle while out on the water.
3. Fly Reel
Fly fishing is one of the oldest forms of angling, dating back thousands of years.
Fly reels are designed specifically for this style of fishing and feature an open-face design with adjustable drag settings so you can adjust how hard you need to pull on your line during a fight with a large fish.
Fly reels come in both single-action (fixed spool) and double-action (reversible spool) models depending on your preference.
Conclusion
No matter what type of fish you’re trying to catch, there’s sure to be a specific fishing reel that will work best for your situation.
From spinning to baitcasting, fly fishing, and beyond, understanding which type works best will help ensure success when out on the water—and who doesn’t want that?
With so many options available these days, it pays off to do some research before investing in a new reel or two!
