Understanding Different Types of Fishing Reels 2023

From professional fishermen to hobbyist anglers – defining the perfect fishing reel has always been a challenge for everyone. If you’re not quite familiar with the variety of fishing reels that exists in this world, it may come to your mind, “does it really matter?”

Well, truth be told, it does. Different types of fishing reels suit different types of fishing situations. Depending on the water source of the fish you are catching – there are a number of parameters for fishing reels to select.

In this piece, we will be explaining the different fishing reel types in detail.

What Is A Fishing Reel?

To explain in simple terms, a fishing reel is a mechanical device that is attached to the end of a fishing rod. The basic setup of a fishing reel is that it holds an ample amount of fishing line. It releases the line when you go for a cast. It helps you to put your cast traveling the longest distance possible.

Again, when you have a catch, it helps you to reel in the fishing line back to you. So, this is what basically a fishing reel is there for.

Understanding Different Types of Fishing Reels

Fishing reels come in different types of formats. Every single type of reel has a different and unique feature that distinguishes it from the other types. Depending on your fishing style, you can select a reel for yourself. So here, we will be shedding light on some of the most commonly used fishing reels.

Baitcasting Reel

Baitcasting fishing reel is by far the most complex reel to get used to. The spool of it is not fixed and continuously moves while you cast. Still, the experienced anglers love the reel because of its efficiency.

The line doesn’t tangle, and there’s a low chance of backlash. It is placed on top of the rod to give the angler better control over it. It comes with a brake-system drag that controls the line quite smartly.

Spinning Reel

The spinning reel is probably the most popular one after the spincast reel. Although it costs more than the spincast one, it comes with a unique design that makes it equally favorite among beginners and professionals.

It features a bail arm that makes it pretty comfortable to cast the lure without making any mistake. Plus, the open-face design gives it a better chance of accuracy for casting and reeling in.

The best part is, the reel is attached underneath the rod in a parallel manner and doesn’t quite move when you are casting. As it remains fixed in its position, it allows the line to travel without any problem at all.

Spincast Reel

The spincast reel is quite popular among new fishers and beginners. This is because the reel is quite easy and convenient to use. For this reason, it is equally loved by beginner adults and children.

One of the unique features of this reel is the closed-face of it. It keeps all the components of it in this closed space, so there’s very little chance of tangling. It comes with a push-button that is used to instantly cast the line.

This extremely lightweight reel is perfect for catching trout, salmon, bass, and channel catfish.

Fly Reel

It’s obvious that the fly fishing reel is basically designed for fly fishing. This type of reel is used with a bug or fly as the bait and are generally applied for long-distance fishing. The ergonomics of the fly reel plays a vital role in keeping the balance of the fly rod.

The most precise benefit you get from this reel is the advantage of casting at larger distances, although the fly is actually very lightweight. The reason behind this is that the fishing reel utilizes the weight of the line, not the weight of the fly when you are casting.

Surf Reels

When it comes to versatility, there are very few competitors to the Surf fishing reel. It is specially made to withstand corrosion and be used in saltwater fishing. That’s why the graphite or anodized aluminum body is completely coated with a corrosion-resistant substance.

This type of reel is pretty famous among surf fishermen for its versatile nature and ability to catch a variety of fish.

Trolling Reels

Popularly known as casting reel, this reel is basically used for off-shore and deep-sea fishing. You can tell the difference between a trolling reel and a regular spinning reel by the dropping line of the reel behind the boat.

There are two types of trolling wheels found in the market – open style and level wind. The open style one is equipped with a strong frame and is usually applied for catching heavyweight fish. On the other hand, the level wind one is used for more versatile reasons.

Center Pin Reel

The simple and straightforward design of the center pin reel tells you the fact that it is beginner-friendly. Most anglers who don’t want to go for the drag approach choose this one as it allows free spinning.

You can find two types of center pin reels. One with true-pins that comes with a spool that rotates on the pin. And the other one comes with a bearing system that has a ball racer that doesn’t allow friction.

Off-shore Reels

Off-shore fishing reels fall into the category of somewhere between a baitcasting reel and a spinning reel. You can also compare it to the surf reel, as well. As you can use it in different types of water, it has a good chance to get exposed to corrosion.

Mostly used in opening water, the reel can be used to catch a variety of fish, so this is quite a heavy one and made ultra-durable.

Overhead Reel

This type of reel is kind of similar to the baitcasting one as it is also placed on top of the rod. You don’t need to be on the boat to use it, and there’s no need for a cast. You just need to drop the line from the boat.

It comes with two different types of drag levers. One is star drag, and the other is the single thumb.

The single thumb drag is used for larger reels and placed on the side of the handle. The start one is placed on the back of the handle and used for a bit lighter reels.

Final Words

So that was all about fishing reel types! Remember these differences when you are going for a fishing session with your friends and family. Choose the one that suits the water and fish you’re planning to catch!

Have great fishing!