5 Types of Fishing Reels to Catch More Fish

You’ll have better success on the water by understanding the differences between the five main fishing reel types. In this guide, we break it all down for you and offer a few selections from our experts to get you started.

Two essential ways to determine which reel you should use include: knowing what fish you want to catch and where you’ll catch them. Always consider your level of experience. Some reel types pose more challenges to operate than others.

Spincast reels are ideal for effortless — even one-handed — casting by young and beginner anglers. If you’re after smaller fish (like crappie, trout, and perch), this reel is perfect! The spincast reel releases the line with a button. When you throw, your cast propels by the weight of your bait or lure. A tangle-resistant closed-cone design covers this spool.

This reel won’t give you the best casting distance compared to the others. However, its value, reliability, and simple design make it a perfect fit for less experienced fishers.

Experienced anglers prefer baitcast reels. They’re also a great option for heavier lures and lines and catching larger, stronger game fish (like largemouth bass). They work with the weight of your bait or lure as it pulls on the line.

Baitcast reels sit on top of your rod. The spool rotates as the line releases. This type of reel usually has a drag system that adjusts to the correct level of resistance needed. Your thumb should apply pressure to keep it from unspooling.

While baitcast reels are available in a variety of sizes, many less experienced anglers still find this reel type challenging to master. However, you’ll ultimately achieve the following with this reel type:

• Get greater casting distance
• Have better accuracy than other types of reels
• See a lessening line twisting and tangling compared to a spinning reel

Spinning reels mount to the underside of a fishing rod. They’re easier to handle than baitcast reels — but with similar benefits. Anglers of all skill levels enjoy their special anti-reverse mechanism. This feature prevents your line from unraveling when you get a bite.

These reels may lack the precision other types have, but they offer fishers reliability, durability, and versatility. Ideal for beginners, they:

• Have a smaller learning curve
• Offer lots of control
• Are less prone to tangling than other types of reels

In fly fishing, you want the flies to imitate the natural behaviors and movements of what the fish eat. Fly fishing reels cast with the weight of the line (rather than the lure). You’ll be able to cast even the lightest of flies longer distances and have them land delicately on the water.

They offer two different drag systems (spring-and-pawl or disc drag) and three different retrieval systems (single action, multiplying, and automatic). Compared to other dynamic types, fly reels have a very specific use and a limited rod pairing.

Saltwater conventional reels (also called overhead reels) are a specialty used for big game and offshore fishing. These versatile reels come in a variety of styles, options, and break types. Most are made of aluminum and have either a lever- or star drag system. The different styles of overhead reels include the following:

• Round conventional reels are best for casting
• Low-profile reels are ideal for manipulating lures
• Level-wind reels ensure your line is evenly distributed during winding
• Open frame reels are helpful for easier, longer casts
• Two-speed reels are most versatile
• Single-speed reels are for lines below 40-pound-test

• Freshwater reels: Freshwater reels are used for fishing inland on lakes, rivers, and streams. They’re often made of less robust materials. While they aren’t as strong, they’re not as costly. Reels made for freshwater are usually smaller (meaning they have shorter line capacity).
• Saltwater reels: You use saltwater reels on large bodies of saltwater like coastal oceans, deepsea trolling, and bays. They’re typically made of fewer parts and are bigger than freshwater reels

• Where do you plan to fish? Think about where and in what conditions you’ll fish most. The standard reel foot is rectangularly shaped to fit most rods. But there is some variation with how close the fit is so be mindful of this while making your selections.
• What species do you hope to catch? If you’re after Mahi Mahi out on the open water you will need a different rod and reel set than you would if you trolled for crappie from your kayak.
• What is your preferred fishing technique? You should always consider a reel that matches the line size you use most often. Remember, the lighter the line, the smaller the reel.
• What is your fishing skill level? You can never go wrong with choosing a spinning reel or even a spincasting reel if you’re brand new to fishing or buying for your child. They’re versatile and easier to get started with.
• What is your budget? If you’re just starting out, you may want to start with a lower-cost reel and rod. This allows you to get used to your gear before you invest a lot of money. We recommend shopping for your rod and reel as a combo like these cost-effective options.

So now that you know a little bit more about the different types of fishing reels, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start reeling in those fish! Before you head out on your big fishing trip, be sure to catch our guide for the best types of rods!