How to Choose a Spinning Reel

Spinning reels are perhaps one of the most widely used reels among anglers. They are easy to use, effectively resist the harsh marine environment, adapt to a wide variety of light tackle or live baits and come in various sizes, designs and price points. While these reels are often used for crappie, perch, and walleye, there are heavier duty models available for larger, more aggressive fresh and saltwater fish as well. One of the aspects that make them popular is the open face design allowing them to dry out faster (lessening the chance of rusting or corrosion) and when in use, they reduce friction, which means longer casts with lighter tackle or live bait. Learning the essential spinning reel parts will provide you with a clear idea of what type of reel you need for the type of fishing that you do.

Reel Body

The reel body is the housing of the reel and is commonly made of graphite or aluminum, or a combination of both. Determining which is better all depends on who you ask. Although graphite is lighter, aluminum is stronger and has less flex, which equates to greater durability as all the moving parts inside stay aligned and last longer. However, aluminum is also more susceptible to corrosion and graphite is not. There are three types of aluminum used for spinning reels including cast, forged or billet. Billet is actually cut from a block of aluminum, forged aluminum is pressed, pounded or squeezed under great pressure, and cast is aluminum heated to liquid and poured into a form. Of the three, billet and forged are stronger than cast. From a manufacturer’s perspective, cast is cheaper to make so it’s common to find billet spinning reels from the smaller manufacturers in the higher end reels.

Reel Size

Determining the type of spinning reel you need depends on the species of fish you like to catch. For instance, if you go after smallies or walleye you’ll need to use 6 lb to 8 lb pound test, which means you should look at a medium-sized reel. The specifications for spinning reels often include the capacity of the type of line, the length (in yards) and line weight (in ounces). So, if you see Monofilament capacity - 110/6 it means the reel will hold 110 yards of 6 lb monofilament line. Remember that this is the middle spec so you can also safely use a 4 or 8 lb line.

Spools

The spool not only holds the line, it plays a key part in casting distance. Like the reel body, spools are commonly constructed from graphite or aluminum and the same guidelines apply – graphite is lighter but

aluminum is stronger and more durable. During your browsing in this gear guide or at next year’s fishing shows you will come across long cast spools that are mainly for (but not limited to) inshore or offshore or surf fishing in saltwater. The main difference between a long cast spool and a traditional-sized spool is the former has a shallower spool design and is more elongated that’s said to reduce even more friction, allowing you to cast further. Another style of spool includes deep, V-shaped or skirted spools that are designed to take longer or heavier line, while shallow spools are easier to cast because the line comes off more easily.

Gear Ratio

The spool on a spinning reel is fixed and the bail rotates around the spool, winding your line on to the reel. The gear ratio represents the number of times the bail spins around the spool with one turn of the handle. For instance, a 6:1 ratio or higher is considered fast while 4:1 is slow. The type of gear ratio that you need all depends on the fish you like to catch and the bait you’re using.

Line Retrieval Rate

The retrieval rate (or recovery rate) determines how much line is wound on the spool with each turn of the handle. In this gear guide it’s shown as IPT (or inches per turn) and always remember that the retrieval rate will change from reel to reel due to the size of the spool and the size of handle even if they have the same gear ratio.

Drag System

Designed to keep the hook set and even assist in tiring your catch during a run, the drag system is an important element to your reel and a poor quality drag or one that isn’t set properly may mean the difference between catching many fish, losing many fish and experiencing many broken lines. There are two types of drag systems to choose from - front and rear. A rear drag allows you to adjust it while you have a fish on the line and a front drag system are known to be more reliable. Regardless of the type of drag you use, a proper drag should allow you to pull out the line smoothly at any tension. You may also want to look for sealed drag systems, which keeps moisture out and reduces line slippage.

Ball Bearings

In simple terms, the more the ball bearings a reel has, the smoother the action, which results in a stronger, more durable reel. Available in various qualities, a high- standard, 4 ball bearing system, which is the minimum you should accept, will last longer than a lower standard 6 to 8 bearing system. In this gear guide, you may see a bearing count presented as 8+1 or 12+1. The ‘+1’ refers to the bearing of the anti- reverse in the bail. It’s also important to know that some reels use bushings rather than bearings and are commonly found in less expensive reels. While the may wear faster with constant, extensive use, some of the benefits of bushings include fewer moving parts and are less likely to corrode. When you’re browsing for reels based on bearings, always look for stainless steel and that they are sealed. Both of these features resist corrosion. Also keep in mind that a well-maintained bearing system is the one that will be smooth and more reliable for long periods.

Handles

Handles are all about ease of use. If you find a handle that’s comfortable and natural in your hand, go for it. Just be sure it’s right- or left-handed reel to suit your preferences. Also, the knob should be easy to find without looking down and provides a good grip, even when your hands are wet or sweaty. We also recommend anti-reverse handles so it can spin in the opposite direction when your fish is on a run. This provides a good hook set and allows the drag to slow it down, rather than having to back reel. In summary, pick up the reel you’re interested in and work its parts. It should be sturdy with no play and everything should move precisely and effortlessly. Take your time. It’s always fun to browse the vast selection of spinning reels that are out there. Just be sure it meets the needs for your fishing style and that it matches your rod and tackle.