Spinning reels - how to use and rating of the best models

Catching predatory fish has always been of particular interest to the fisherman due to the opportunity to prove himself in the fight against a worthy and cunning opponent. The invention of the spinning fishing method led to its improvement, one of the results of which was the invention of the inertia-free spinning reel.

The inertia-free reel replaced its less convenient and productive predecessor - the inertial reel. He liked to give this accessory as a gift during the fishing process - a beard made from a fishing line, thereby ruining the whole fishing trip. The new invention completely solved this problem and streamlined a number of other problematic issues related to casting bait, retrieving it and landing fish.

What does a reel consist of?

Today, the fisherman will no longer be surprised by the futuristic appearance of the inertia-free machine, which, taken together, represents a complex complex mechanism assembled in a durable case made of plastic or metal materials. The body has a leg for attaching the mechanism to the rod saddle. A spool is mounted on the axis of the mechanism that transmits rotational-translational movements. Control of the release of the cord from the spool and its winding is controlled by the folding bracket of the line guide. The mechanism has a controlled brake or clutch and a handle for transmitting rotation to the gears of the mechanism.

The design of a spinning fishing reel and its operating principle

Inertialess spinning reels are a complex mechanism based on the laws of motion transmission through gear shafts and bearings. The handle drives the rotor and the line layer combined with it. The handle transmits movement with a certain gear ratio due to the interaction of different size gears. The line laying bracket, rotating around a stationary spool, places the reeled line on its surface. The spool, mounted on the main shaft of the entire mechanism, makes reciprocating movements, evenly distributing the cord wound on the bobbin. The very principle of operation of an inertia-free reel allows you to cast accurately and accurately, without controlling the descent of the cord or tracing its winding. These actions are fully automated by the spinning reel design.

The main pair and the spool feeding device are concentrated in the meat grinder body. The combined design of these two elements is called the rotor mechanism. The main shaft gear receives momentum from the rotor wheel. The handle, moved by the fisherman's hand, is the generator of the movement of the wheel in the rotary mechanism. It is attached to the shaft using edges and a hole specially made for them.

The gearbox is the main pair, which has a specific gear ratio. The complex design of the mechanism in no way causes difficulties or inconveniences in terms of using a spinning reel in practice when fishing. The faster the angler rotates the handle, the faster, as a result of interaction with the drive, through the selected gear ratio, the speed of rotation of the rotor increases. In this way, as a result of the selection of the gear ratio of the mechanism, determined by its characteristics, various conditions are provided for the speed of wiring and winding of the cord when fishing.

How to choose a spinning reel

The choice of a spinning reel is based on its design features, which increase performance and comfort when using it. The number of bearings in the mechanism increases the smoothness and durability of its use. Bearings in a good-quality reel replace all plastic bushings, and their number can reach thirteen.

The friction brake has an important component in controlling the movement of the spool and creating conditions to reduce stress when the fish jerks and the bait hooks. It can be located at the rear of the reel or combined with the spool mount in its front. The inertia-free reel is equipped with a spool, which in the ideal configuration of the mechanism has two more spare options.

Depending on the fishing conditions, the spool has three types of shape:

• cylindrical;
• conical;
• reverse cone shape.

The spool base is made of materials that are difficult to wear out.
Spools vary in the size of the cord they can accommodate and, according to this criterion, have their own markings, indicating the diameter of the fishing line and the possible amount of its laying. The gear ratio characteristic determines the ratio of the number of turns of the handle to the number of turns of the rotor during the same period of time. Depending on the gear ratio in the inertia-free reel design, they are divided into ranks: power (3.2 to 4.2 revolutions), universal (4.5-6.1) and high-speed (6.2-7.2).

To balance the gear, fishing reels must have a relatively low mass. The weight directly depends on the material from which the inertia-free parts are made. More durable materials also have greater mass, so a high-quality product has weight, but the weight is adequate for its shape. The ultra-lightweight design may well indicate low-quality parts in the device. On average, the weight of even the largest meat grinder does not exceed 600 grams, small representatives fluctuate around 200.

Advantages of spinning reels

A device for storing fishing line, facilitating its easy release without tangling, is widely used. The mechanism becomes an integral part of the fisherman’s property due to the advantages:

• with the help of a spool there is a quick change of complementary foods, the casting distance increases, the element holds the weight of the feeder;
• the device of the inertia-free reel allows the line to run from the end in the desired casting direction, since the axis is installed parallel to the rod;
• the thread is released strictly in the required footage for casting; after finishing, the angler only needs to turn the line guide, making sure that the string hits the corresponding roller;
• metal reel parts increase reliability and extend service life;
• coils with an endless screw serve for a long time with periodic maintenance;
• It is allowed to use fishing line of various diameters.

How to choose the right one

When purchasing a spinning reel model, pay attention to the strength of the roller and the presence of a bearing in it. When purchasing a device, all related factors are taken into account, the purpose of the purchase and the preferred method of fishing are determined. The choice is made according to the following criteria:

1. The coil size for universal use is taken to be 1500−2000 and no more.
2. The thread is laid evenly on the bobbin. In case of casting, the line is released to the optimal distance, which makes the user’s task easier. It only traces the location of the line laying arc.
3. For a beginner, it is better to purchase a casting version of the reel. It differs from the standard one in its small string reserve, which is only 75-85 m. This model has the advantage of uniform laying.
4. The device is easy to move, the structural elements do not emit extraneous sounds and do not touch each other.
5. The size of the reel is determined depending on the length of the fishing rod; a large device will interfere with work.
6. The strong fastening of the staples does not allow them to close spontaneously or change position.
7. Spacers on the bobbin axis help to easily adjust thread winding with front or rear drag. There should be 3 or more of them included in the block.
8. The roller rotates freely without friction. Touching leads to the appearance of a gap with the subsequent entry of fishing line into it.
9. Branded devices are selected for purchase. Even Daiwa and Shimano have affordable models that will last a long time and will not cause trouble in the form of frequent repairs and replacement of spare parts.

How to choose a reel

The inertia-free gear is selected according to the principle of harmony and compliance of its parameters with the intended type of fishing. For trolling and feeder fishing, reels are selected taking into account the traction characteristics. The power type of coil is exactly in this topic. By the way, the reel for sea fishing also belongs to its power version. The friction brake in the rear position is more convenient and practical for slow fishing.

In match fishing, when equipping a Bolognese fishing rod and fishing with a bombard, universal type reels are preferred. Cone-shaped spools allow you to throw equipment far enough with the least effort. The friction in the front part of the meat grinder makes it possible to quickly adjust it even during the actual fishing of fish or hook.

When choosing a spinning reel for winter fishing, jigging, twitching and ultralight, we focus on its size and high speed characteristics. Here, speed types are a priority. Pay attention to the attachment of the reel to the spinning rod.

Important! The reel leg should fit into the sliding seat without any noticeable tension and be clamped without even the slightest amount of play.

Blitz tips

When going fishing, you need to remember a few important tips:

• The lighter in weight all the elements of the equipment are, the better the bite will be noticeable. However, do not forget that in this case, casting over long distances becomes impossible;
• For a float fishing rod, floats weighing 0.5-12 g are best suited. The decisive factor when choosing is the type of fish and the type of reservoir;
• Small pellets or olives are suitable as weights
• You can use a variety of hooks from 2.5 to 10 numbers;
• When purchasing a reel, you need to pay attention to its test exposure;
• It is better if the spool is metal - this will increase the casting distance and accuracy.

A high-quality reel and its correct fastening will ensure a more sensitive hook and accurate casting of the fishing rod.

And in the skillful hands of a fisherman, they will increase the likelihood of a catch and minimize possible damage to the equipment.

Source: lakeking.ru

Choosing fishing line for the reel

The type of cord for equipping fishing tackle is selected depending on the type of fishing. As a rule, in feeder fishing and in most spinning disciplines, braided cords are used.

Important! The spool must accommodate a sufficient amount of cord for the casting distance, so that until the end of its edge, after laying it, there remains a free space of at least two millimeters. This distance allows you to throw the equipment without chaotic dropping of the rings.

For match and Bolognese gear, fishing lines are mainly used. Fishing lines are used with smaller diameters and sometimes, to achieve optimal winding volume, a backing winding, the so-called base, is used, made of a material larger in diameter than the main fishing line.

Important! When purchasing reels, be sure to pay attention to the condition of the spool surface, which should be smooth and not have even the slightest roughness. Otherwise, these inconsistencies will lead to noticeable defects in both fishing line and cord.

Main characteristics

High-quality equipment for a spinning rod and, accordingly, fishing depends on the following characteristics: test load, length and action (or reaction to load). Also not a key, but an important role is played by the material from which the fishing rod is made and the design of the handle.

Test load

This characteristic is used to determine the weight range of lures that is recommended for a particular fishing rod . According to this characteristic, spinning rods are divided into several types:

1. Light, or light class - permissible load from 5 to 15 grams.
2. Medium, middle class - the weight of bait in this class varies from 10 to 30 grams.
3. Heavy, heavy - you can install a bait weighing 20 - 50 grams.
4. Extra Heavy, super-heavy class - the minimum load for this type of rod is 50 grams.

There are also several less common types of rods based on test load:

1. Ultra Light, or ultra-light class, allows a load of no more than 10 grams.
2. Medium Light (medium light class) - load level ranges from 5 to 25 grams.
3. Medium Heavy, or medium-heavy class - the permissible weight of artificial bait is from 15 to 40 grams.

Professionals recommend choosing a rod whose test load is from 12 to 15 grams; if you use light bait, then the test load of the rod can be 8 - 10 grams. In this case, you should not go beyond the test load. If you use a heavier bait, the rod may break, and it will be much more difficult to maneuver such a bait. If the bait is too light, it will be difficult to cast it over a significant distance.

Rod length

This is also an important characteristic on which fishing results depend. Mostly measured in meters, you can also find inches or feet. The length is calculated depending on the fishing conditions, the required casting distance and other factors. At the same time several types of spinning are distinguished , based on this characteristic:

How to use a spinning reel

As mentioned above, the reel is installed on a spinning rod in a special device based on the principle of pressing the base of the mechanism leg through a screw drive. After installation on the rod, the operation of winding the cord onto the spool is performed. The cord is fed from the tip of the rod, through the rings, to the spool. The line guide opens and the line or braid is tied to the spool. Then close the line layer and wind the cord in the required quantity.

Important! The winding cord must be as tight as possible. In this case, the initial tight arrangement of the turns will ensure further correct shedding of the rings and the same correct winding.

Without winding the line about 2 mm to the end of the side of the spool, winding is completed. The line laying machine is closed. During this movement, the line automatically falls on the feed roller on the line laying arm. Set the clutch settings to two-thirds of the force, the critical value for breaking the cord. The tackle is ready for further manipulations with the equipment.

The cast is done with the shackle open. The fishing line is pressed against the blank with the index finger and an even, smooth swing is made, followed by feeding the bait to the fishing point. The finger must simultaneously release the line at the moment of casting. Having presented the bait, the line-laying arm is closed and wiring begins. The spinning rod with a spinning reel is in full operation, all that remains is to wait for the bite and get the long-awaited catch in the cage or on the kukan.

How to wind fishing line

To do this, you must perform the following steps.

• Pull the tip of the line through the spinning rings, starting with the smallest one located at the top of the rod.
• Fold out the line guide ring and tie the line onto the spool. This is best done using a special self-tightening knot.
• To make it, you need to make a double loop and tighten it on the bobbin. The protruding end of the fishing line must be cut off.
• Next, you need to correctly wind the fishing line onto the spool. To do this, you need to create a slight tension. It is convenient to wind the fishing line with a partner who holds the reel with fishing line in his hands and controls the resistance. If you don't have an assistant, you can do it yourself by putting the spool in your pocket.
• You can also pass the line through the fingers of the hand with which you hold the spinning rod, and rotate the reel handle with the other.
• It is also not worth creating excessive tension, as this can lead to the formation of knots and uneven winding.
• It is recommended to reel in the line without stopping and constantly monitor the process.
• The winding process must be completed at the moment when approximately 25-30 millimeters remain to the edge of the spool. This is considered its optimal filling. It is not recommended to reel in any more fishing line, as this can create some problems (the appearance of knots, the line jumping off the spool when casting).

Helpful advice! After finishing fishing, you need to make one single cast. In it, raise the rod perpendicular to the ground, and slowly rotate the reel handle to wind the fishing line. This will allow it to dry and be placed correctly on the spool. A nice bonus in such cases can be a bite, which happens quite often!

Reel Care

Compared to inertia reels, inertia-free reels require constant care and monitoring of their technical condition. It is recommended at least once a year, preferably before the opening of a new season, to carry out technical maintenance of the mechanism, which consists of cleaning it from dirt and lubricating gears and bearings with special lubricants.

It is better to buy lubricants intended for caring for reels in fishing stores. It is not recommended to use automobile oils and grease, as they differ significantly in viscosity from the lubricants required for delicate parts of the mechanism and can increase friction forces and lead to jamming of the mechanism and its failure.

Rating of popular reel models

I would like to present a rating of the most popular spinning reels among anglers, where you can choose inexpensive, but at the same time high-quality options, and already at a mature fishing age, with experience, splurge on an elite accessory.

Important! Budget spinning reels are an excellent option for equipping the gear of novice fishermen. This initial choice will provide an opportunity to learn how to operate the mechanism correctly, despite the fear of breakdown from improper use.

So, the top 10 spinning reels:

1. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX-6600 (6601). This meat grinder may be expensive in monetary terms, but in terms of operational reliability it is a clear favorite in spinning fishing. Durable but lightweight aluminum body, miniature but spacious spool. Four bearings and an easy-to-adjust clutch. King of the Jig!
2. Daiwa REVROS E 1500 A. Ultralight lovers will be pleased with its performance. The item is not the most expensive in price, but is made with decent quality. The main advantage is lightness, with a spool capable of absorbing 150 meters of 0.2 mm monofilament.
3. SHIMANO TWIN POWER 15 2500S combines all the achievements in the field of innovative technologies. This option is ideal for twitch fishing. The main advantage is the waterproofness of the case, which has been tested in practice, and a large interval between servicing the mechanism. But the cost is high.
4. RYOBI ZAUBER 3000. Classic inertia-free with a large margin of safety. Option for trolling fishing. The spool holds 200 meters of wattle with a diameter of 0.2 mm. Housing made of non-corrosive materials. Nine bearings ensure quiet and smooth operation. Average price level.
5. Mikado CRYSTAL LINE 3006 FD is a purely trolling, budget version of the reel. A high gear ratio and a proven instant stop system give a feeling of reliability when fishing on the move. For beginners, their hobby of trolling is an ideal option.
6. Shimano Rarenium 3000 - worthy of a place in the top due to its ability to lay out high-quality line, which completely eliminates the problem of dropping loops when casting unsuccessfully. The disadvantage is the high price. I recommend it to matcha lovers. Long casting is easy. The reel is not massive and fully meets the weight requirement, about 200 grams, for match rods.
7. Daiwa Infinity-X 5500BR is a classic representative of feeder fishing reels. Massive spool, high gear ratio, baitrunner, all the amenities for comfortable carp fishing. The price corresponds to the high quality.
8. STINGER PRIORITY 2500 - for twitching retrieves and light jigging. Budget option, but decent build. With regular technical inspections, it will last at least five seasons of intense fishing, proven by practice. Seven bearings really make the ride smooth, but there are problems with play in the handle.
9. RYOBI EXCIA MX 3000 is an option for medium and heavy jigs. The spool's incredible line capacity, up to 200 meters of 0.18 mm braid, and its indelible collar make the model a long-lasting accessory in its owner's fishing arsenal. The price is tolerable, closer to budget.
10. Shimano Ultegra-12 1000 is a super-light ultralight inexpensive model. High-quality thin clutch, special protection of the mechanism with effective lubrication. I recommend it to anyone new to spin fishing.