For any angler, the fishing reel is an essential partner in the thrilling pursuit of a successful catch on their Northbank Boats. More than just a spool for line, reels play a crucial role in casting, retrieving, fighting fish, and ultimately landing that trophy catch. With a vast array of reels available, choosing the right one will greatly depend on your fishing style, target species, and budget. This guide will delve into the world of fishing reels, equipping you with the knowledge to select the perfect reel for your next aquatic adventure.

Spinning Reels: Renowned for their ease of use and versatility, spinning reels are the most popular choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike. The line spool remains stationary on the spinning wheel, while the bail arm rotates to manage the line during casting and retrieving. Spinning reels offer excellent line control and are suitable for various fishing techniques.

Baitcasting Reels: Favored by experienced anglers for their power and precision, baitcasting reels require more practice to master. The line spool on a baitcasting reel is free-moving, requiring the angler to control the line with their thumb during casting. Baitcasting reels offer greater casting distance and are ideal for throwing heavy lures and fighting large fish.

Spincasting Reels: A hybrid between spinning and baitcasting reels, spincasting reels feature a fixed spool like a spinning reel but utilise a trigger mechanism similar to baitcasting reel for line control. Spincasting reels are less common but offer a somewhat easier learning curve than baitcasting reels.

Fly Reels: Designed specifically for fly fishing, fly reels are lightweight and feature a large-diameter spool to accommodate long lengths of thin fly lines. Fly reels have a unique drag system designed to manage the delicate flight with a fly-fished fish.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Fishing Reel

Before you check out the nearest marine shop in your area to get a new fishing reel, consider first the following factors mentioned below:

Gear ratio: This indicates the number of times the spool rotates for each full turn of the handle.

Line capacity: Larger reels hold more lines, allowing you to fish deeper or cast farther distances.

Drag system: The drag system is a crucial component controlling the line released when a fish pulls. A smooth and reliable drag system is essential to prevent snapped lines and lost catches.

Ball bearings: Ball bearings reduce friction within the reel, leading to smoother operation. More ball bearings generally indicate a higher quality and smoother functioning reel.

Material and weight: Reels are typically made from lightweight materials like aluminium or graphite. Some high-end reels may feature components made from stainless steel or magnesium for increased durability.

Left-handed Reels: Left-handed anglers can opt for reels specifically designed for left-handed operation, allowing for more comfortable and efficient use.

Levelwind Feature: Some spinning reels have a levelwind feature that automatically distributes lines across the spool during retrieval. This can be helpful for beginners but might not be necessary for experienced anglers.

Braided Line Compatibility: If you plan on using a braided fishing line, choose a reel specifically designed or compatible with a braided line. Braided line has a smaller diameter and can dig into spools designed for monofilament line.