Understanding the differences between the five main types of fishing reels can greatly improve your fishing success. This guide breaks down each type and includes expert recommendations to get you started.
Understanding Different Types of Fishing Reels
Choosing the right reel depends on the type of fish you’re targeting and where you’ll be fishing. Always consider your experience level, as some reels are more challenging to use.
| Fishing Reel Types Chart | Benefits | Considerations | Ideal Locations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spincast | Affordable, easy to use | Limited accuracy and range | Lakes or ponds | All fishers (including children) |
| Baitcast | Good distance, better accuracy, customizable | Challenging for beginners, can easily tangle | Inshore or offshore | Experienced fishers |
| Spinning | Better control, huge versatility, improved power | Not suitable for heavy lines, can easily tangle | Lakes, ponds, & inshore saltwater | All fishers |
| Fly Fishing | Durable, relatively easy to cast with line | Not suitable for other fishing types, relatively more expensive | Ponds or rivers | Experienced fishers |
| Saltwater Conventional | Good for various fishing techniques, made for catching larger species | Heavier when transporting, not suitable for beginners | Saltwater or surf | Experienced fishers |
Spincast Reels
Spincast reels are ideal for beginners and young anglers. Perfect for catching smaller fish like crappie, trout, and perch, these reels release the line with a button press. Their closed-cone design minimizes tangles, making them easy to use.
While they don’t offer the best casting distance, spincast reels are affordable, reliable, and simple, making them great for less experienced fishers.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to use and maintain
- Good for beginners and youth
- Difficult to tangle
- Can be used with one hand
Cons
- Limited accuracy
- Limited range/line capacity
- Lacks durability (often made with plastic)
- Weak drag system
- Difficult to repair
Expert Pick:
The Lew’s Laser TXS Spincast Reel comes pre-spooled with premium monofilament line. Its lightweight graphite handle and Combat Grip® thumb button ensure controlled handling. The dial drag system provides smooth performance in all conditions, making it a great option for beginners.
Baitcast Reels
Baitcast reels are favored by experienced anglers for their ability to handle heavier lures and lines, making them ideal for larger game fish like largemouth bass. The reel sits on top of the rod, and the spool rotates as the line releases.
These reels offer greater casting distance and accuracy but have a steep learning curve and can easily tangle.
Pros
- Good distance
- Better accuracy and customizable
- Excellent drag system
- Works with all fishing line types
- Good control system and balance
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Requires greater dexterity/switching hands
- Can easily tangle when casting
- More parts/more complex construction
- Must change braking system and spool settings when you switch lure types
Expert Pick:
The Lew’s Laser MG Speed Spool SLP 100 Baitcast Reel offers smooth performance and is suitable for freshwater fishing. This right-handed reel features a lightweight construction for optimal use.
Spinning Reels
Spinning reels mount to the underside of a fishing rod and are easier to handle than baitcast reels. They feature an anti-reverse mechanism to prevent the line from unraveling when you get a bite.
Though they lack the precision of other reels, spinning reels are reliable, durable, and versatile, making them ideal for all skill levels.
Pros
- Better control
- Huge versatility
- Improved power
- Used by all skill levels
- Good value and very durable
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy lines or lures
- Can easily tangle
- Small learning curve
- Requires maintenance
- Less casting distance and accuracy
Expert Pick:
The Shimano Sedona FI Spinning Reel delivers performance and durability in a lightweight design to reduce hand fatigue. It features an innovative spool lip design to improve casting distances with minimal backlashes and wind knots.
Fly Fishing Reels
Fly fishing reels are used to cast with the weight of the line rather than the lure. They allow for delicate presentations of flies and offer two drag systems and three retrieval systems.
These reels are specific to fly fishing and have a limited rod pairing.
Pros
- Relatively easy handling and casting
- High rate of retrieval
- Can be used in fresh and saltwater
- Less harm when you catch and release
Cons
- Not suitable for other fishing types
- Relatively more expensive
- Takes time to perfect technique
- Requires more patience
Expert Pick:
The Mr. Crappie® Solo Jiggin’ Reel Right-handed features a dual ball-bearing drive system with a 1:01 gear ratio for steady retrieves. Its graphite frame offers lightweight strength, reducing line twisting and increasing line recovery.
Saltwater Conventional Reels
Saltwater conventional reels are used for big game and offshore fishing. These versatile reels come in various styles and are typically made of aluminum. They offer lever- or star drag systems and are suitable for catching larger species.
Pros
- Good for various fishing techniques
- Made for catching larger species
Cons
- Heavier when transporting
- Not suitable for beginners
Expert Pick:
The PENN Senator 114H2 Conventional Reel Convertible features a rigid frame and smooth operation. Made of lightweight graphite, it has stainless steel frame rings and ball bearings. The power handle is convertible from right- to left-handed operation.
Saltwater vs Freshwater Reels
- Freshwater reels: Used for fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams, these reels are often made of less robust materials and are smaller in size.
- Saltwater reels: Designed for large bodies of saltwater, these reels are typically more durable and larger than freshwater reels.
Expert Tip:
Not all saltwater fishing is done in deep seas. Inshore saltwater reels look similar to freshwater varieties.
Choosing the Best Reel for Your Rod
- Where do you plan to fish? Consider the conditions and locations where you’ll fish most often.
- What species do you hope to catch? Different species require different rod and reel combinations.
- What is your preferred fishing technique? Match your reel to the line size you use most often.
- What is your fishing skill level? Beginners might prefer spinning or spincast reels.
- What is your budget? Start with a lower-cost reel and rod combo to get used to your gear.
Have Fun Out There!
Now that you know more about the different types of fishing reels, it’s time to start fishing! Check out our guide for the best types of rods before your next trip.
