There are many types of fishing reels on the market such as spinning reels, baitcaster reels, fly reels, surf reels, and trolling reels. With so many options, how do you choose the right fishing reel? Take a read through the following guide to pick up some helpful tips for choosing the right fishing reel.
1.Fishing reel sizes
There is no standard size code for reels, but most manufacturers use numbers to indicate the size. The same model often comes in different sizes. This is usually based on the capacity of the spool, which dictates the overall size of the reel. Different manufacturers may use different markings, so the numbers may be marked in units of 1000, such as 1000, 2000, 3000, etc., or units of 10, such as 10, 20, 30, etc. The higher the number, the larger the size of the reel.
The size of the fishing reel determines how large fish you can catch. Larger reels are stronger, can accommodate heavier lines, have higher resistance, and are suitable for use with larger lures. For example, 500 size is suitable for ultra-light fishing such as ice fishing or micro fishing; 1000 to 3000 size is suitable for lure fishing or light float fishing, suitable for trout, crappie, bluegill, bass, catfish and other fish; 3000 to 4000 size is suitable for pleasure fishing and float fishing; 4000 to 6000 sizes for surf fishing for large catfish, carp, pike, muskie and small to medium offshore species; 8000 size reels for medium-sized sharks or large rays; 10,000 and above size is suitable for true long-range fishing or marking float work.
2.Saltwater vs Freshwater
All saltwater reels can be used in freshwater, but not all freshwater reels can be used in saltwater. Therefore, when choosing a fishing reel, pay attention to distinguishing between seawater fishing reels and freshwater fishing reels. Saltwater reels are usually made with corrosion-resistant materials and extra attention is paid to sealing the reel as much as possible against saltwater intrusion into the reel.
3.Materials
The reel housing, spool, drag, and other components can be made of different materials, such as housings, spools, drag, etc. Graphite is lighter and cheaper but also weaker. Aluminum is heavier, sturdier, and more expensive. So, good spools are made of aluminum, not graphite.
4.Gear ratio
The gear ratio shows you how many times the spool rotates with a single turn of a handle. For example,5.2:1 means that the spool will rotate 5.2 times. It is considered to be a medium-speed reel. Slow ones are below 4.8, medium ones are between 5 and 6.5:1, and fast ones are above 7.
The slow-speed reel gives the reel more cranking power, allowing the angler to take control of larger, extremely powerful fish easily. The high-speed reel is suitable for long-distance fishing in the case of match fishing, and the angler brings the rig back quickly and saves time. An everyday fishing session, where normal distances are being fished, and average fish are being caught will demand a medium-speed reel.
5.Matches the fishing rod
Having a compatible rod is also necessary. Many fishing equipment manufacturers make matching rod and reel models for use. If you already have a fishing rod and are looking for a spinning reel, ask your local fishing store for advice, or search the Internet to find a compatible reel.
Post time: Nov-25-2022