Choosing The Right Fishing Reel
Here are a few pointers to help you to choose the fishing reel that will work best for you. A reel is an essential piece of fishing equipment that is used by fishermen to cast and retrieve fishing line(hopefully with a fish on it). It is a spool and axle that mounts on a fishing rod. There are also reels that have been specifically designed to mount on boats. There are three basic types of fishing reels: bait casting, fly casting and spin casting. We have a selection of the top selling reels listed for you on the bottom of this page.
Bait Casting Reels...Bait casting reels are extremely complicated. The line is pulled off the rod by the weight of the lures being used. It is thrust forward by the motion of casting. These reels usually provide a device that lays the line evenly across the rotating cylinder that acts as the core of the reel. If the cast is not smooth, it will cause problems when the line is reeled in. The line can become tangled, which is frustrating to the user. Great lengths of time can be spent untangling the line when using bait casting reels. These reels are not for beginners or children.
Fly Fishing Reels...There are two specific things you need to be aware of when choosing a fly fishing reel. One is to ensure that it has a drag that is extremely responsive. The second thing is to buy a fly fishing reel that can stand the tension and strain put on it should you have a significantly large catch. Fly casting reels are more expensive than other types of fishing reels. When purchasing a fly fishing reel, look it over very closely to make sure that there are no plastic parts. It is common for plastic to fail when you have a large fish on your line, and you don't want that to happen.Reels that are all metal are much more reliable and are worth the extra price that you will pay.
Spinning Reels...There are two types of spinning reels to choose from - closed faced and open faced.
The closed faced reel is inexpensive and easy to use. It is the best type of reel for those who are learning to fish. You'll rarely have a problem with a closed faced reel. Many people swear by these because they are so reliable.
Closed faced spinning reels have a push button release when casting and have an opening in the top for the line to come out when cast. This type of reel is mounted on your fishing rod. These reels are used by fishermen who are hobbyist, casual sportsmen, beginners and children. If you buy a prepackaged rod and reel, this is usually the type of reel that's included. As your fishing skills improve, you may want to upgrade to an open faced reel.
Open faced spinning reels are more difficult to use and comes in a variety of sizes. Ultra light models are great for catching pan fish. Larger models will be needed for game fishing or ocean fishing. Line capacity on an open faced reel is greater and is serviceable when fishing for salmon and trout. They have a smooth drag, which makes them an excellent choice for the longer running game fish.
Which ever type fishing reel you choose, keep in mind that you don't want a reel with plastic parts that can fail while you are reeling in a bigger fish. A good rule of thumb is the lighter the line, the smaller the reel. Be sure the reel you purchase is compatible with the type of fishing line you plan to use. If you're choosing only one reel, a medium speed is best. If you plan on buying at least two reels, choose both a high and low speed. There also is a difference in fishing reels for right and left-handed people. Left handed reels turn counter clock wise while a right handed reel turns clock wise.
These brief descriptions should help you decide what fishing reel will work best for you. If you are still having trouble choosing a reel, ask a family member or friend that goes fishing alot to lend you a hand, or ask the staff at your local fishing store. Anyone who has experience in fishing will be more than glad to help in any way they can. If you have the right fishing equipment, you'll have a more enjoyable time and hopefully catch more fish, although we can't guarantee that.
Click on any item, and you will be directed to the page where you can find out more about the item you've selected.
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