Reel Talk: 6 Types of Fishing Reels

If there's one thing I've learned from my many years spent waist-deep in river water or miles offshore, it's that fishing isn't just about how well you can cast or how patiently you can wait. It's about knowing your gear, understanding what works when, and being as familiar with your tackle as you are with the smell of your old, trusty, probably-should-have-been-thrown-out-years-ago fishing boots.

Now, speaking of things that have been around for a while, let's talk about fishing reels. There are six main types of fishing reels you should know about: spincasting, spinning, baitcasting, conventional, fly, and electric reels.

1. Spincasting Reels

Spincasting reels are the perfect entry point for beginners. They're simple to use and relatively inexpensive, which makes them a great choice for kids or anyone just getting their feet wet (pun intended) in the world of fishing. The line is enclosed within a nose cone, which reduces the likelihood of tangles.

To cast, you simply press the button on the back of the reel, and release it when you swing the rod forward. Brands like Daiwa and Shimano offer reliable spincasting reels that won't break the bank.

 

Key Features of Spincasting Reels:

• Easy to use.
• Affordable.
• Reduced chance of line tangles.

2. Spinning Reels

Spinning reels are a step up from spincasting reels. They're versatile, easy to use, and can handle a wider range of fishing conditions and species. These reels hang beneath the rod, and they allow for longer casts and more precise adjustments to drag.

Again, Daiwa and Shimano, along with Van Staal, manufacture quality spinning reels.

 

Key Features of Spinning Reels:

• Versatility for various conditions and species.
• Long, accurate casts.
• Fine-tuned drag adjustments.

3. Baitcasting Reels

If precision and power are your game, baitcasting reels are your go-to. These reels sit on top of the rod, and they're a bit more complex to use than spinning or spincasting reels, but the payoff is worth it. Compared to other reels, casting reels allow for longer casts and more power when reeling in big fish, making them a favorite among experienced fishermen.

You'll find some top-tier baitcasting reels from brands like Daiwa and Shimano.

 

Key Features of Baitcasting Reels:

• Precision and power.
• Longer casts.
• Ideal for experienced fishermen.

4. Conventional Reels / Trolling Reels

When you're ready to take on the high seas and reel in some serious catch, you'll want a conventional reel. These reels, also known as trolling reels, are built for deep sea, boat, and big game fishing. They can handle heavy lines and large fish, but they're not the easiest to use, especially if you're used to spinning or spincasting reels.

We carry some top-tier conventional reels, perfect for your next offshore adventure.

 

 

Key Features of Conventional Reels:

• Built for offshore and big game fishing.
• Can handle heavy lines and large fish.
• More challenging to use.

5. Fly Reels

Fly fishing is a whole different beast, and it requires a specialized reel. Fly reels are designed to handle the unique casting techniques and lighter lines used in fly fishing. They have a simple construction and are manually operated, but mastering the technique requires practice and skill. 

Key Features of Fly Reels:

• Designed for fly fishing.
• Simple construction.
• Require practice and skill to master.

6. Electric Reels

If you're after huge, deep sea game fish or monster pelagics, you want an electric fishing reel. These powerhouses are designed for deep-sea fishing, making them ideal for targeting species like swordfish, snapper, and grouper. They can handle the heavy loads and extreme depths that come with this type of fishing. Plus, they're a great choice for fishermen with disabilities, as the electric mechanism can do a lot of the work.

Daiwa is known for their reliable and high-performance electric reels.

 

 

Key Features of Electric Reels:

• Designed for deep-sea fishing.
• Can handle heavy loads and extreme depths.
• Also beneficial for fishermen with disabilities.

Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is the most popular reel type?

Spinning reels are arguably the most popular type of reel. They're versatile, easy to use, and suitable for a range of fishing conditions and species.

What is the hardest fishing reel to use?

Conventional reels, also known as trolling reels, are considered among the hardest to use. They're designed for offshore fishing and can handle heavy lines and big fish, but they require experience and skill to use effectively.

What is the easiest reel to use?

Spincasting reels are the easiest to use, making them a great choice for beginners or casual anglers.

Which reels are best for freshwater?

Spinning reels are often recommended for freshwater fishing due to their versatility and ease of use.

What reel is best for deep sea/offshore fishing?

Conventional reels, also known as trolling reels, are built for offshore, deep-sea fishing. They can handle heavy lines and tackle the big fish that are found in these conditions. Of course, an electric reel can make it significantly easier to bring in a heavy catch from the depths, as the electronic mechanisms do a lot of the work for you.

What reel is best for bass?

Baitcasting reels are favored for bass fishing because they provide the precision and power needed to handle these feisty fish.

What size reel for tuna fishing?

When it comes to tuna fishing, a larger reel, typically a conventional reel, is recommended. Tuna are strong, powerful fish, and you need a reel that can handle the fight.

What size reel for lake fishing?

For lake fishing, a medium-sized spinning reel is usually a good choice. It provides the versatility to handle a variety of species that you might encounter.

What kind of reel for saltwater fishing?

Conventional reels are often recommended for saltwater fishing, especially if you're going after larger species. However, spinning reels can also be used for lighter saltwater fishing.

Reel talk: Does size matter?

Absolutely. The size of your reel should match the type of fishing you're doing. Larger reels can handle heavier lines and larger fish, while smaller reels are lighter and more suitable for small to medium-sized fish.

What reel is a good choice for beginners?

Spincasting reels are often recommended for beginners due to their ease of use and affordability.

The Bottom Line

Now, let me lay it on the line for you: there's no universal "best reel" when it comes to fishing.

Are you a newbie, just getting started? Grab yourself a spincasting reel. It's simple, it's cheap, and it'll get the job done while you're learning the ropes.

Into fly fishing? Naturally, fly reels are a must. Simple in construction, yes, but don't let that fool you. Mastering these bad boys takes skill and finesse.

More of a jack-of-all-trades, fishing in all sorts of conditions? A spinning reel is your best friend. It's versatile and user-friendly, and it's got your back whether you're fishing in freshwater or dabbling in some light saltwater action.

Looking to up your game? Baitcasting reels offer precision and power. They might take a bit of getting used to, but trust me, once you've got the hang of it, there's no going back.

Planning to wrestle with the monsters of the deep? Conventional reels are built tough for offshore, big game fishing. And if you're really going after the big boys in deep waters, consider getting an electric reel. It's got the power to bring in the big ones without breaking a sweat—at least too much of a sweat—so you can bring in bigger fish, and spend more time fishing. And who could argue with that?

So, the long and short of it? Your gear is as good as your knowledge of it. Know what you're working with—and you're already halfway there.