Many types of reels have been developed designed for any type of fishing, including the following: spinning, feeder, carp fishing, float, fly fishing, trolling, winter and sea fishing. For each specific task, you need your own gear, which has its own characteristics.
For example, a spinning reel must be lightweight to ensure comfortable constant tracking and balance with the rod, while carp reels are made large to accommodate many meters of thick fishing line on the spool.
According to the mixed classification, coils are as follows:
- Inertial.
- Inertialess.
- Multiplier.
- Spinning.
- Feeder.
- Cyprinids.
- Float
- Trolling.
- Marine.
- For winter fishing.
carp reel
A large spinning reel that can withstand heavy loads and hold a lot of thick fishing line. Carp are usually caught at a great distance from the shore, that is, the reel must provide a high casting range and accommodate more than 200 meters of fishing line. Carp spools are usually elongated and have a cone shape for better line release. Spool sizes up to 14,000, for example, Shimano Ultegra 14000 XTD.
Types of spinning reels
Initially, a fishing reel was used only to store a supply of fishing line directly on the fishing rod. Somewhat later, they also began to use it in the fishing process.
Today, three types of spinning reels are known: inertia-free, inertial and multiplier reels . The first is ideal not only for a fishing rod, but also for a spinning rod, since when casting, the line comes off on its own. The use of such a reel prevents the line from tangling with the formation of the so-called “beard”.
Modern industry produces three types of spinning reels: with open, semi-closed and completely closed spools. Until recently, the products of English and American companies were considered the best in the world. Recently, reels from Japanese manufacturers have begun to appear on the market and have managed to carve out a place for themselves in the market in a fairly short period of time.
The body of modern spinning reels is marked with very important data for the fisherman, which he should be able to decipher. First of all, this is the ratio of the thickness of the fishing line to the number of spools it can accommodate. For example, the inscription 0.135 – 140 means that 140 meters of fishing line with a cross section of 0.135 mm can be placed on this reel. It is mandatory to indicate the gear ratio of the “multiplier” - gearbox. The expression “Long Cast” means that this reel design is designed for ultra-long casting. This possibility is achieved by using a conical spool with a reduced height of its front side. It is made of a composite material containing a large amount of graphite, which significantly reduces the friction of the fishing line on the side of the spool. Spinning reels labeled “ATS” are equipped with an anti-twist system that significantly reduces line twist when casting.
One of the disadvantages of a spinning reel is its low power and the need for constant scrupulous adjustment of the brake. However, for amateur fishing this does not play a significant role.
Unlike inertia-free models, inertia models have a fairly long history. They are considered the direct heirs of the Nottingham type coils, which were described by L.P. Sabaneev. If previously they were made of wood, today this material has been replaced by plastic, light metals and other composite materials.
One type of inertial coil is a wire coil. It is equipped with spools of 50-60 mm or 120-200 mm. Even more so for a catfish line. Each of them is equipped with a dead brake, designed to fix the drum, as well as a friction brake, which ensures that the fishing line is forced off the drum. In many cases, the inertial reel is equipped with a ratchet or a so-called reverse brake. This simple mechanism, however, makes it easy to reel in the fishing line and at the same time slow down its return descent.
Multiplier reels are considered the highest quality and most reliable . Each of them is a rather complex mechanism. Many of the models are equipped with an extensive “menu”, consisting of a huge number of different types of control for automated braking, winding and reverse brake. The most advanced and expensive models even have the function of determining the location of the fisherman using space navigation systems. Wow!
One of the important elements of the “multiplier” reel is the friction brake, which helps to avoid tangling of the fishing line during casting. So after purchasing this model, you should first learn how to use it. In particular, you will need to carefully study all of its settings, since they will need to be used almost every cast.
Happy fishing!
Inertia coils
Inertial ones are used mainly for float fishing, fly fishing, and winter fishing. Most often, round inertial reels simply serve to store fishing line on it, and the process of pulling the fishing line is done by hand, for example, in winter and float fishing.
Although there are inertia reels with a large diameter, they are used for constant winding/resetting of fishing line during fishing, are rarely used, and do not have normal friction.
Features of spinning reels
All inertialess coils have a common design and operating principle. But they can be distinguished by certain features, which determine the direction of choice in favor of a specific model for the desired fishing method. So, the parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing an inertia-free motor are:
- Size.
- Gear ratio.
- Line laying.
- Friction brake.
Size
Size is considered an indicator that determines dimensions, traction characteristics and weight. Small sizes 500-2000 are used in match fishing, ultralight, and light bottom rigs. Small, simple fishing reels with a minimal set of bells and whistles can be used in both wire fishing and Bolognese fishing rods. For average spinning rods, inertialess rods of 2000-4000 are usually used.
When choosing a spinning rod, you need to understand, for example, how a 3000 size fishing reel differs from a 4000 size one. It's simple: the latter is larger, more powerful and can work with heavier baits. Inertia-free baits from 4000 and above are used in bottom fishing or carp fishing. Often in such fishing you need not only powerful, but also long-casting reels in order to deliver heavy equipment to a given point at a considerable distance from the shore.
Gear ratio
The gear ratio is also the main parameter that determines traction and speed performance. It shows how many revolutions the spool makes in one turn of the handle. Fishing reels with a large gear ratio, more than 5.5, are considered to be high-speed. They are often used in light spinning or match fishing. Power fishing reels have a gear ratio of less than 5.0 and are used in heavy spinning, feeder, sea fishing or lake and river trolling. Also, power spinning rods are chosen by carp fish for both working and spod rods.
Line laying
Based on the method of laying the fishing line, there are two types of reels - with a worm gear and a rocker mechanism . The most common laying system is with an endless screw, which is less commonly called shuttle. This type provides more even winding and is considered durable and repairable, since it is easier to disassemble and replace worn elements and components. A fishing reel with a rocker mechanism, also called an ellipsoidal one, is more powerful and powerful, but if the main pair breaks down, restoring its functionality is more problematic. In addition, such a system is not very suitable for fishing with jerk baits.
Friction brake
The friction mechanism also comes in two types - front and rear. The front clutch is considered to be more compact and thinner to configure. If it breaks, it is enough to replace the spool to restore functionality. Most often used by spinners. The rear clutch is more convenient when fishing and allows you to quickly replace the spool. More popular among feeders and carp fishermen.
Front drag fishing reel
Rear drag fishing reel
In addition to the differences described, many coils may differ in other features. Some models may come with one or more spools of varying capacities. There are models that allow you to rearrange the handle, so this right-handed fishing reel can be used by left-handed people.
Float reel
For a regular fishing rod, inertial models are used that work like a reel for storing fishing line. Winter reels perform a similar task - storing fishing line. Rewinding is usually done by hand. There are models of winter reels already built into the fishing rod itself. An important requirement for them is lightness.
Basic parameters when choosing a coil
It is necessary to familiarize yourself and understand several parameters, since choosing a fishing reel correctly without having the slightest idea about them will not work.
Experienced fishermen, as a rule, know how some products differ from others. They can purchase and use any of them. Therefore, the following information will be useful primarily to beginners. Since the choice of gear suitable for inexperienced fishermen is small, let’s figure out how to choose a spinning reel that will be easiest for them to use.
When purchasing, you need to pay attention to the following:
- smoothness and ease of movement;
- spool size;
- product weight;
- mechanism for laying fishing line in the reel;
- material for manufacturing the main elements;
- friction brake;
- handle type;
- line handle.
Smooth and easy reel movement
The smoothness and ease of movement of the reel affects the sensitivity of the bait during fishing. It also determines how evenly the line will be wound onto the spool. If this parameter is selected incorrectly and the fishing line is laid unevenly, then during fishing you will experience the sensation of frequent false bites. The desire to cast the bait further away will also be impossible to realize.
The mechanism should not crunch or crack during operation, and individual parts should work without touching each other. It is very important to pay attention to the smoothness of the spool when purchasing. You need to run your finger along its side. If there are jags, it is better to avoid this specimen.
Reel and spool size
This parameter primarily affects the mechanism’s ability to withstand heavy loads. It also determines how much fishing line and how thick the spool can hold. It is measured in numbers 1000, 2000, 3000, etc. For example, a reel with the designation 3000 holds 100 meters of fishing line with a diameter of 0.3 mm or 300 meters with a diameter of 0.1 mm.
For light spinning rods and bait, it is recommended to select a reel with sizes from 1000 to 2500. Together, these elements will allow you to catch small fish without any difficulty. For medium and heavy fishing rods and lures, products with sizes from 3000 to 5000 are suitable. More substantial dimensions will allow you to catch heavy predators, but they are rarely used in spinning fishing. They are often purchased for sea fishing, trolling or carp fishing.
Thus, the size of the entire mechanism and spool affects the distance to which the bait can be cast and the diameter of the fishing line that will be used.
Selecting a spinning reel by weight
It is clear that the light weight of the reel provides an advantage to some extent. It's a little more convenient to use. But on the other hand, the lightweight mechanism is not made of such high-quality and durable materials. Heavy products are made of metal and durable elements. Therefore, if you give preference to one of these two indicators, then the second will have to be sacrificed. It is recommended not to chase one or the other, but choose the average and focus on the weight of the rod, bait and the size of the fish you plan to catch.
Line laying mechanism
There are two types of mechanisms that are equipped with an inertia-free spinning reel: with an endless screw (worm gear) and with a link (crank).
High-quality mechanisms of both types allow installation without humps and grooves. The line will lie smoothly and well.
There are two main types of fishing line winding: straight and cross. The first allows you to lay evenly and tightly, and place more fishing line in the spool. The disadvantage is that adjacent turns can cling to each other and get stuck, which will negatively affect the quality of casting.
This moment is not present with cross winding, however, the amount of cord that the spool can accommodate is less.
Direct winding, in turn, is divided into three more subtypes: straight cone, reverse cone and cylindrical.
With the cylindrical laying method, the cord will lie parallel to the bobbin. In the case of straight and reverse cones, winding will be done at a slight angle.
Material for manufacturing the main elements
The quality and durability of the product directly depends on this. Inexpensive mechanisms, as a rule, are made from materials that are cheap in cost or easy to process. The result is a not entirely high-quality product that will not last even two seasons.
Conscientious manufacturers use various metals in production, which ensures strength, reliability and durability. The most commonly used are titanium (for the body), aluminum alloys (for the spool), bronze alloy (for gears), as well as steel and some polymers.
Friction brake
The friction brake is present in all types of spinning reels, but there are two types: front (relief notch and notches in the front of the spool) and rear (handle at the back of the reel).
The rear mechanism is heavier, larger and less sensitive. The advantage is that it is easier to adjust during fishing. Also, a spool with a rear friction brake can be easily replaced with another if the need arises. The front clutch is more sensitive and lighter, but it is more difficult to adjust.
A high-quality clutch should release the line smoothly without any jerking.
Handle mounting types
There are three types of handle mounting:
- screw-in;
- fastened with a screw;
- fastened with rivets.
There are no obvious advantages or disadvantages to either type. The only thing you should pay attention to when choosing screw-in and screw-on handles is the thread size. If it is very small, there is a risk of tearing it off when attaching it.
Line laying arm
It is important that it allows the line to easily come off the spool during casting and to freely fall onto the winding roller when blocked. You need to check this parameter and only then choose a spinning reel.
