The Ultimate Buyers Guide to Fishing Rod Reels
Fishing reels aren’t complex pieces of machinery, however, you do have to think a little bit and consider what your fishing future is going to look like. If you plan on going deep sea fishing, you will require a different rod and reel than if you were to go fly fishing, and you must be able to forecast this. There are 7 general areas that you have to look into before you can choose the exact right rod reel that you’ll need.
Get a Grip – Finding the Right Fishing Rod Reel Grip
You must have no-slip grips on the hand crank and the arm of the reel. If you do not, you will have a tough time hanging on to the reel and rod when your hands get wet. In order to maintain proper control over the reel, this is an absolute must.
Get Your Fishing Reel Bearings
One of the most overlooked, yet most important aspects of a reel is the ball bearings. The bearings control two aspects of the reel: How smooth the retrieval is, and how quickly you can stop the reel when setting the hook. Generally, if you have more ball bearings, you will have a much smoother retrieval. The standard in retail reels is 2, with 3-4 saved for higher end reels and 5 or more for professional level extremely expensive reels.
Additionally, the amount that the reel spins backwards after winding the line is determined by the bearings. Of course, you obviously want the backwards spinning to be kept to a minimum, which will maintain maximum control over the line. To test whether you have a good set of bearings or not, reel in a little bit of line, then let go of the handle and pull the line out of the reel. The less your handle turns backward, the better.
Full to Capacity
It shouldn’t have to be mentioned, but the capacity of the line of any reel should be looked at. Check out the test weight of the reel, as well as what the length of line that can be put on the reel is. The test poundage and the reel capacity should closely match.
To Spin or Not To Spin – There Are 2 Basic Types of Fishing Rod Reels
the level wind, also called the bait caster, and the spinning reel. Both have their separate purpose and will create different effects when you are jigging the lures and bait. Generally, you will want a bait casting reel if you are going to be fishing with large plugs and bait style lures, which are common with bass fishing and other inland fish. Bait casting reels don’t create much action in the lure, but they do allow for control when casting. As you can imagine, spinning reels serve the purpose of putting action into the lure and because of this are used in trolling and casting spoons and spinners.
Eyes on the Target
As we discussed earlier, the fish that you are targeting makes a big difference in the type of reel that you are looking for. The breed of the fish is not as important as the size and weight of fish. While different fish have different fighting capabilities, they are strongly dictated by their size. You should always check to see that the reel that you’re going to be fishing with will match the size of fish that you’re putting yourself up against. Lastly, if you plan on fishing in areas that you expect to be snagging lures, you will want to make sure you have a much sturdier reel than if you were fishing in the open with no chance of snags.
Size Does Matter When Dealing with Fishing Reels
Most reels are about the same size, so this factor is last for a reason. If you plan on being out on the water for extended periods of time, you may be interested in picking up a lighter reel. Additionally, if you plan on passing the rod and reel on down to your children, you will want to be sure it is lightweight.
