Types of Fishing Reels

One of the most important parts of fishing net is the reel. The reels are grouped into two: flying reels and spinning reels. Under these categories, there are various types of fishing reels which include:

Centre-pin Reel

Also known as float reel, it freely moves on its axle for easy casting over long distances. The rotating reel provides the momentum, which allows the lines to be drawn off. The reel is also attached to a rod that allows casting and retrieving of the net. The rod is made perpendicular to the reel to allow the line to run off the spool during casting.

Bait-casting Reel

It’s also called the revolving-spool reel. It has a geared bearing-supported spool. For every revolution, the crank handles produce multiple spool revolutions. The position of the bait casting reel is slightly above the rod.

Conventional Reel

Also called the trolling reel, this type of fishing reel has many similarities to the bait-casting reel. It’s further categorized into lever drag and star drag reels. Though star drag reels resemble bait-casters, the lever has to be adjusted to align with the free spool. On the other hand, the lever drag is able to place itself on the free spool using the drag. Conventional reels are preferably used in offshore fishing because they are designed for big fish. However, they experience a lot of back-clash whenever they are cast yards away.

Spinning Reel

Also called fixed-spool reels, they were made to accommodate the use of artificial flies for salmon and trout. Mounted below the rod, it conforms to gravity. This implies that it does not require any application of energy to keep the reel in position. The invention of the spinning reel addressed the problem of back-clash as the reel had no rotating spool, which could foul or overrun the line.

Spin-cast Reel

The purpose of making the spin-cast reel, another type of fishing reel, was to address the problem of back-clash, which was common in the original bait-cast designs. It can be used with light lures and baits because the lines are thrown from a fixed spool. It does away with the line roller of the spinning and the large wire bail. Instead, it has a metal cups and twin pickup pins, winding the line of the spool. The reel is fitted with an external cone to protect the fixed spool. The friction between the spool cup and the cone guides against the uncoiling lines, limiting the casting distance. Spin-cast reel uses narrow spools and if it has to be large then the reel must be tall.

Under-spin Reel

Also known as the trigger-spin reels, this type of fishing reel is mounted below the spinning rod. They are easier and comfortable to cast and can be held for longer periods because the weight of the reel is suspended below the rod. It’s also very versatile and flexible due to its ability to use all spinning rods. The line is usually suspended in place by rotating a trigger or a lever. The trigger is usually released in the forward cast causing the line to fly off the spool. The position of the lure during the cast can be determined by activating the lever.