Hello again everyone. I hope the mid April weather is treating everyone well. Today I am going to go in depth on the different types of reels and what their best applications are. There are three major types of fishing reels: bait casters, spinning reels, and closed face reels. Each has its own specific features and uses depending on what your fishing for.

Bait casters are generally mounted on medium to heavy sized rods as they are most adept at casting heavier lures. Bait casters are made to be very good casting reels both for distance and lure weight. The only downside to bait casters is that they require a good amount of hand skill to use and most people have to practice to become efficient with them. Bait casters are generally used for bass, pike/muskie, and other sport fish.

Spinning reels are a good all around choice as they can be used for almost any type of fishing by almost anyone. They come in a variety of sizes for various lure and line weights. Spinning reels do not require as much hand skill as bait casters and therefor are more suitable for those who are frequent anglers but not pro's. Spinning reels are a good choice because they can be used on almost any kind of fish with similar results all around. Spinning reels are also easier to work on than the other types of fishing reels.

Closed faced reels are by far the most common among new fishermen. Closed face reels require no special hand skill unlike spinning reels and bait casters. These types of reels are generally reliable but lack the finesse and accuracy of other reel types. This being said closed face reels are generally best suited for bluegill, catfish, carp, and sometimes crappie. Closed faced reels are somewhat harder to work on as their internal parts can be harder to reach.

Types of reels from left to right. Bait caster, spinning reel, and closed face reel.


Overall choosing the right reel for yourself or someone else will depend on a few things. Fishing skill, fishing preferences, and how much money will be spent. All three basic types have their own particular advantages and disadvantages so make sure you do plenty of research on what kind will be best for you and your type of fishing.

For more in depth information into the types of reels available on the market visit http://www.jarviswalker.com.au/view/choosing-equipment/buyers-guides/choosing-equipment-reel-buyer-s-guide.html