Baitcaster vs Spinning Reels: What’s the Difference?

“Get a spinning reel” is what most novice fishers likely hear when it comes time to upgrade from a push-button spincasting reel. But not all beginners are alike. Muster up some patience. Pair that with enough practice. You might find yourself tempted to dart for that baitcasting reel instead.

There are three main differences between a spinning reel vs a baitcasting reel: how they’re individually built and designed to function, how they mount to your fishing rod when in use, and how they cast as you throw them out into the water.

Whether you’re simply curious or you’re seriously considering moseying down your own path, here’s everything you should know about the differences between baitcasting and spinning reels:

By design, baitcast reels sit on top of your rod and work with the weight of your bait or lure while the fish pulls on the line. A smooth spool spins rapidly when you release the line.

The unique spool rotation yields a greater, more accurate casting distance with a lesser likelihood of line tangling and twisting. Experienced anglers who prefer using heavier lines or catching larger and stronger game fish (like largemouth bass) will enjoy using them!

Gear ratios refer to how many times a fishing reel’s spool rotates per handle turn. Lower gear ratios have slower retrieval. Higher gear ratios have faster retrieval. A hallmark feature of a baitcaster reel is that it offers different gear ratios, which does present a steeper learning curve when throwing one.

Baitcasters are typically better suited for big game fishing and other heavy lifting. This specific type of reel can be used in many of the same scenarios as spinning reels; although, they are a popular choice for freshwater bass fishing.

Spinning reels mount to the underside of a fishing rod. Not only are they surprisingly easier to handle compared to baitcast reels. Beginner anglers can enjoy a smaller learning curve, better control, and fewer tangling opportunities.

The spool of a spinning reel does not physically rotate. Instead, the bail mechanism spins as you turn the handle on the side of the reel. They have an anti-reverse mechanism that prevents the line from unraveling when you get a bite.

• Adjustable Reel Handle: The adjustable reel handle makes it easy to switch sides on the reel — accommodating both right- and left-handed fishers.

• Drag Adjustment Knob: The drag adjustment knob controls the spool resistance. Turn right to tighten it, or turn it left to loosen the line.

• Spool: The spool is where the line goes. You’ll find different spool sizes that depend on your fishing style or the species you’re after.

• Bail: The bail is a mechanism used to release or stop the line from moving in or out of the spool.

Use spinning reels for almost any type of fishing — from spin fishing and trolling to bottom fishing or even offshore fishing. Baitcasters can generally be cast further and more accurately than spinning reels. However, spinning reels are useful for shallow waters, windy conditions, or when any extra finesse may be required.

Baitcast reels require the pressure of your thumb on the release lever to keep it from unspooling. They work with the weight of your bait or lure as it pulls on the line.

Spinning reels have an anti-reverse mechanism called a bail, which is helpful in preventing your line from unraveling when you get a bite.