Spinning Reels (Got to Go Round)
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lure propels the line forward and the stationary spool prevents the line from tangling. Spinning reels can be used with smaller bait and heavier lures.
The Reel Body
* The body of the reel is made of either
aluminum, plastic or a combination the these materials.
: '''Aluminum'''
** Reels with aluminum bodies are typically the most sturdy.
** They also weigh more than graphite or plastic.
** Fishermen who punish their equipment will be better off using an aluminum reel.
: '''Graphite'''
** Graphite reels are much lighter, but many anglers feel that this makes them more difficult to cast.
** More resistant to corrosion than aluminum reels.
** Not able to take as much punishment as aluminum reels.
** Look for a solidly constructed reel body with no loose or flimsy parts
** All moving parts should have a smooth and fluid performance without kinks.
Reel Size
* When deciding on the size reel to purchase, first decide what you'll be fishing for (how heavy, strong or tricky will the fish be?) and the poundage of the line you'll be using.
* The size of your reel should be directly related to the thickness of the fishing line, and the reel should be rated for that type of line.
** Ten-pound test line is typically the highest strength that should be put on a spinning reel for freshwater fishing.
* Fisherman using lighter line can get by with a smaller reel.
Gear Ratio
* The reel's gear ratio refers is how many complete revolutions the spool makes with exactly one crank of the reel handle.
** The higher the ratio the longer it takes to pick up the line.
*** '''For example''', a 3:1 ratio would mean the spool turns three times for every time the handle is turned.
*** A 6:1 ratio would mean the spool turns six times for every turn of the handle.
* The benefit of having a high ratio is that it provides more torque for reeling in large fish.
** The disadvantage is that it will take extra discipline to reel in a fish that requires a slow lure (since high bass, for example.
* The type of gear ratio you'll require depends on the type of fishing you're doing, and the size of fish you're after.
* If you're only going to buy only one reel, go for a medium-speed model with a gear ratio between 4:1 and 4.5:1. Any higher ratio would be extraneous and not worth the cost.
Drag System
* The drag is one of the most crucial elements of the spinning reel.
** It applies pressure to keep the line taut when you have a fish on and allows the line to go out during the fight.
** A smooth, high-quality drag reduces the risk of lost fish and broken lines.
* Ensure the reel has a smooth, non-constrictive drag.
** The line should pull out steadily and without hesitation at the degree of tightness you decree.
* Spinning reels have either front or rear drag.
** Front drag systems are generally larger and more durable with better overall performance.
** Rear drag controls are easier to access, but not as durable or versatile.
Ball Bearings
* Spinning reels use
Spools
* The spool holds the line and assists with casting distance and smoothness.
* Most spools are made of either aluminum or graphite.
* Just as with the reel's body, graphite is lighter and aluminum offers greater durability.
* There are two basic styles, skirted spool.
** Internal spools are an older style and are rare in newer models.
*** They are simple in design and have a flaw that allows the line to become tangled in them.
*** Skirted spools eliminate this problem.
* There's also a design known as the long cast spool, which is shallower than the regular style but longer.
** This allows for less line friction, which in turn allows for longer casts.
** However, this counteracts some of the fast-reel action of a high ratio gear, which requires lots of spooled line to work effectively.
* Consider, as well, a spool's line capacity.
** The amount of line you'll need depends on your fishing. (For example, in deeper water you may need more line, etc.).
** Reels can handle as little as 15 yards to as much as 900 yards.
** Most fishermen need no more than 130-180 yds. and up to 10 lbs. of line (and that's still a lot; a beginner or casual fisherman can get away with less).
Top Manufacturers
'''Top of the tops'''
*
Shimano (models at all price levels, from $20 through $700+)
*
Daiwa (ditto)
*
Mitchell (budget, less than $100)
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