Choosing the right fishing reel is the most important gear decision you will make. The reel determines how you cast, how you fight fish, and ultimately how much you enjoy your time on the water. With six main types of reels available, each designed for specific fishing styles, the choice can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down each reel type so you can make an informed decision based on your fishing style, target species, and experience level.
Baitcasting Reels
Baitcasting reels sit on top of the rod and spool line directly from a revolving spool. They offer the most control and accuracy of any reel type, making them the choice of experienced bass anglers and anyone who needs precision casting.
Baitcasting reels excel at casting heavy lures, working thick cover, and pulling big fish out of structure. The downside is the learning curve — backlash and bird nests are common for beginners. Modern baitcasting reels include braking systems that reduce backlash, but they still require practice to master.
Best for: Bass fishing, heavy cover, precision casting, experienced anglers. Browse our baitcasting reels for corrosion-resistant options.
Spinning Reels
Spinning reels hang below the rod and use a fixed spool that does not rotate during the cast. They are the most versatile and beginner-friendly reel type. The open face design allows for smooth casting with light lures and baits.
Spinning reels are ideal for general freshwater fishing, panfish, trout, and light saltwater applications. They require minimal technique to cast well and rarely backlash. The trade-off is less casting accuracy and control compared to baitcasting reels.
Best for: Beginners, light lures, panfish, trout, general freshwater fishing. Our collection includes ultralight spinning reels with high gear ratios.
Spincast Reels
Spincast reels are the simplest reel type, with a closed face design that hides the spool behind a cone. You press a button to release the line and release it to stop. They are the easiest reels to use, making them perfect for children and complete beginners.
Spincast reels are not as durable or smooth as other types, and they have limited line capacity. But for casual backyard fishing or introducing kids to the sport, they are unbeatable in simplicity.
Best for: Children, beginners, casual fishing. See our spincast reels for ergonomic, easy-to-use options.
Fly Fishing Reels
Fly fishing reels are designed specifically for fly fishing, where the weight of the line (not the lure) carries the cast. The reel primarily stores line and provides drag when fighting fish. Fly reels are single-action, meaning one turn of the handle equals one turn of the spool.
Fly fishing is a specialized technique that requires its own rod, line, and skills. If you are interested in trout, salmon, or saltwater flats fishing, fly fishing offers a unique and rewarding experience.
Best for: Trout, salmon, saltwater flats, anglers who want a specialized technique. Our fly fishing reel kits are lightweight and balanced for beginners.
Trolling Reels
Trolling reels are designed for dragging lures behind a moving boat. They are built heavy duty with strong drag systems and line counters to track how much line is out. Trolling reels handle large fish in open water.
Trolling is the primary technique for salmon, walleye, and saltwater big game fishing. These reels are not designed for casting — they are for deploying line behind a boat and fighting fish that strike while trolling.
Best for: Salmon, walleye, saltwater big game, boat fishing. Check our trolling reels with corrosion-resistant construction.
Ice Fishing Reels
Ice fishing reels are compact reels designed for vertical jigging through ice holes. They have short rods and simple drag systems. The key feature is smooth drag at low temperatures, where standard reels can freeze up.
Ice fishing is a specialized winter technique. If you live in a cold climate and want to extend your fishing season, ice fishing reels are designed specifically for the unique demands of fishing through frozen water.
Best for: Winter fishing, panfish, walleye, northern pike. See our ice fishing reels with smooth drag systems.
Matching Reel to Target Species
Your target species should guide your reel choice:
- Bass: Baitcasting or spinning reel, medium-heavy action
- Trout: Spinning or fly reel, light action
- Panfish: Spinning or spincast reel, ultralight action
- Salmon/Steelhead: Trolling or spinning reel, medium-heavy action
- Saltwater inshore: Spinning or baitcasting reel with corrosion resistance
- Saltwater offshore: Trolling reel with heavy-duty drag
Gear Ratio Explained
Gear ratio tells you how many times the spool rotates per turn of the handle. A 7.1:1 ratio means the spool turns 7.1 times per handle turn. Higher ratios retrieve line faster, which is useful for working lures quickly or catching up to fast-moving fish. Lower ratios provide more power, which helps when fighting big fish.
For general fishing, a 5.2:1 to 6.4:1 ratio works well. For techniques that require fast retrieves, look for 7.1:1 or higher. For big fish that need power over speed, 4.7:1 to 5.3:1 is ideal.
Final Considerations
Beyond reel type, consider these factors when choosing:
- Corrosion resistance: Essential for saltwater fishing. Look for aluminum or stainless steel construction.
- Line capacity: Match the reel capacity to the type of fishing you do. Deep-sea fishing needs more line than pond fishing.
- Drag system: Smooth, strong drag is critical for fighting bigger fish. Look for reels with carbon fiber or multi-disc drag systems.
- Weight: Lighter reels reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions, especially for ultralight and fly fishing.
Whatever reel you choose, pair it with quality fishing line and the right lures for your target species. Browse our complete fishing reel collection to find the perfect match for your fishing style.
