All Essential Fishing Reel Types

• Mark G. Ruf
• 09 May 2018
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A serious angler should know all about his reels like a hunter should know all about his weapons. Without choosing the right weapon at the right time you will not be able to score a good catch. So, you need to know all the basic fishing reel types in order to decide which one would be the most suitable for you. There are thousands of different reels with thousands of different functionality but they can all be fit in the basic 5 categories.

So, today I am going to guide you through all of those five major reel categories and also discuss what makes them so unique. You might ask about my authority about these kinds of stuff. Well, sir, my experience is my authority. I have been fishing for fun and glory ever since I was just a little boy. Growing up in a farmland filled with lakes, all I could think of is fishing.

So, I have my days with the fishing and it’s time for me to share some of my knowledge. Remember, you can always use a different kind of accessories with the fishing reel but it won’t make sure that you will get the best catches. You need to use the appropriate reel in order to achieve that feat. So, without further ado, let’s get on with the article;

Why Use Different Reels?

Before knowing the different fishing reel types; you need to know why you should learn about these differences. Well, there are some specific reasons for that. Those are;

Spinning Reels

The Usage of the Reel :  Spinning reels are very light weighted reels that can be easily cast by the users. Originally invented in North America, this reel was designed in a way that can use artificial lures rather than the real ones. The reels are simple and easy to use which makes it a popular choice for the beginners. This is used to catch salmon, trout and other mid-sized games.

Key Features : The reels are usually made out of stainless steel and sometimes aluminum. It has very strong drag but the braking system is average. The spinning reels are the most common fishing reel types and have an easy maneuvering ability.

Other Important Info : There are many variations of the spinning reels. But, all have the same spool system. You can also use more spool in the spinning reels than any other reels.

Baitcasting Reels

The Usage of the Reel : This is Perhaps the most common and widely used type of reels. It is famous for its strong drag power, strong braking system, and overall durability. This is the most used type of reel in the tournaments as well. You can literally catch most of the kind of fishes with this reels including marlin, salmon, tuna, milkfish, and others.

Key Features : Baitcasting reels usually have four parts. The reel lever, the drag force, the level wind and the spool line although it may vary from one brand to another. You get strong braking and an incredible amount of force when you are using a baitcasting reel.

Other Important Info : This is the most difficult to master than any other fishing reel types because the reel might spin backward when you cast. But, you will be unstoppable once you master it.

Dragging Reels

The Usage of the Reel : Dragging reels is the hybrid between the baitcasting reels and the spinning reels. You get the benefit of using a lighter reel and at the same time, you will enjoy the strong braking function of the baitcaster. This is mainly used when you are fishing for a longer period of time.

Key Features : This reel has a bigger place to keep the lines and a larger spool so you can enjoy deep water fishing and throw your cast further. It also has a very strong braking function as well.

Other Important Info : This reel is lesser used compared with other reels but if you want to stack up your storage with comfortable fishing then this is the tool for you.

Center Pin Reels

The Usage of the Reel : This is the ideal reel for long distance casting. If you are in a vessel and you want to throw you cast as far as you can, you definitely need center pin reels on your side. The drag speed might not be too strong but the spinners are comfortable enough to draw for a very long time.

Key Features : It has wide and large spool which holds more thread than any other fishing reel types. The braking is average but the reeling and drawing are very smooth.

Other Important Info : You should read out some general reviews about the center pin reels before you can go ahead to purchase them as a few manufacturers make good ones these days.

Underspin Reels

The Usage of the Reel : Underspin is just another popular sub-genre of the spinning cast reel. But, it is so popular among the users that it has got some cult following and the editor also prefers to use this reel. You can get the benefits of the spinning reel and at the same time enjoy stronger drag when you are using this reel.

Key Features : The reel is mounted on the downside of the rod and thus you can use a lower hand action to spin the reel. The reel also comes with a smoother turning and faster retrieving mechanism.

Other Important Info : There is some tips and tricks article that you should consider reading which tells you how to transfer a spinning reel into an underspin reel.

So, now that you know all about the major reels, you should probably go out and try all of these by yourself and see the differences. Be sure to get the right tools with you as it will have half of the fishing done for you while the rest half depends on your technique. So, good luck with each of the different fishing reel types. Until then, take care.