Fishing Reels Explained

Sometimes it seems as if there are as many designs of fishing reels as there are species of fish. But all fall somewhere into one of a few basic categories.

Spincasting reels are the most basic. They hold the line and feeding mechanism hidden inside a container that resembles a rocket ship capsule from the 1960s. The cone section has a small hole through which the line feeds. This design helps prevent tangling or, as it's known to the pros, "a bird's nest" or 'backlash'. On the end of the reel nearest the angler there's a small thumb button that makes it easy to release or brake the line while casting.

Spincasting reels tend to be used by young children or complete novices, since the design limits the ability to cast far and with complete control. They tend to be smaller and therefore hold lighter weight line.

Once you've had an outing or two you might want to switch to a spinning reel. They are similar in design without the cover and use a bail wire that you flip over rather than a push button to release the line. They have a larger line capacity and allow for longer, more accurate casting.

A spinning reel with the right weight line for a particular application allows for smooth, long-distance casting with high accuracy and low chance of tangling. These fishing reels usually have a better 'drag' or braking system than spincasting reels. These reels are mounted below the rod instead of on top as in spincasters.

Baitcasting reels are mounted above the rod like with spincasting reels. The spool is positioned sideways so the line pays out straight rather than rolling out over the face of the spool. This eliminates the line twisting that can occur in spinning or spincasting reels. Some reels are made partly from composites, but the majority are light-weight aluminum or magnesium. They tend to use very sturdy drag mechanisms to slow larger, stronger fish and are intended to be used with heavier lures.

Fly fishing reels are different from any of these, since they are designed mainly to hold the line, not to cast it. A section of line is spooled off by hand, then released as the rod flicks forward. Contemporary models do incorporate a drag mechanism to prevent the fish from pulling out more line that is desired.

Although not often found and hardly ever used, there are automatic fly fishing reels for spooling line just by pressing a lever. Unlike the traditional fly fishing reel, a simple press of the thumb activates a spring that pulls line back in with virtually no effort. Though it might seem like an advance, most anglers prefer a standard reel that maximizes control and provides part of the joy that comes from skillful reeling.

Saltwater reels, as the name suggests, are designed specifically for saltwater fishing. Since the salt in ocean and seawater will ruin any ordinary metal in short order, this type is made with special alloys or coatings to prevent corrosion. That can be anything from electroplated tin to stainless steel to a type of aluminum specifically designed to oxidize so that the metal underneath does not.

Match the reel to the type of fishing you intend to do, and your level of expertise, and you can't go wrong.

Daiwa Goldcast Spincasting Reels

For the ultimate in spincasting performance, go for the gold! Daiwa Goldcast Spincasting Reels. An old-school design that's been updated for the new millennium. The Daiwa Goldcast has been a favorite of anglers young and old for years. Its ease of use and reliable performance make it an excellent all-around choice for almost any type of fishing. You simply won't find a better, more dependable Spincasting Reel.
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Okuma Inspira Spinning Reel

This is my favorite spinning reel. Inspira Features: Multi-disk oiled felt drag washers, 9 stainless steel HPB ball bearings, 1 Quick-Set Anti-Reverse roller bearing, Precision machine cut brass pinion gear, ALC : Rigid diecast aluminum frame, Patented Elliptical Oscillation System, Spare matching aluminum and ported spool, Rigid forged aluminum handle design, Hydro Block water tight drag seal.
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Shimano Citica E Baitcasting Reel

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New for 2009! Smaller than a 100 with the capacity of a 200. Aluminum Frame; Lightweight Graphite Sideplates; Recessed Reel Foot; High Efficiency Gearing (HEG); Super Free Bearing Supported Pinion Gear System (SF); A6063 Aluminum Lo-Mass Spool; Dartainium Drag; 4 Bearings: ? 3 Shielded Stainless Steel BB ? 1 Stainless Steel Roller Clutch Bearing;
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Okuma Helios Large Arbor Fly Reel

Okuma continues to develop the most technological advancements in fishing tackle without compromising performance or value. Those were the thoughts when they decided to build the ultimate fly reel, the Helios series. This machined aluminum frame and spool fit the demands of the most experienced fly fishermen. Its multi-disk waterproof drag and one way clutch bearing make this the jewel of the highly regarded Okuma line of fly reels. Fishing Gear Tips and Advice Store