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The most important feature to consider in any fishing reel is the drag system. The drag system is the tension added to the line by the fishing reel. It is important to set the drag system at enough tension for a large fish to pull line from the spool. If there is not enough tension fishing line will run freely from the spool when the fish tries to get away. If there is too much tension the fishing line has the potential to break. Matching the right tension to the fish comes with practice.
Gear ratio
Gear ratio refers to how many times the spool completes one revolution when the handle of the fishing reel does a complete turn. For example, a 6:1 gear ratio means that the spool does 6 revolutions to 1 complete turn of the handle.
The rule to go by is the higher the gear ratio the more revolutions the spool does for each turn of the handle. So for fast lure/bait movements a higher number of revolutions per handle turn is needed, so therefore a higher gear ratio is needed for this type of fishing application.
Line capacity
Depending on where you are fishing influences how much line capacity is needed, for example, a fishing reel for a boat rod would not need as much line capacity as a fishing reel for a beach rod – this is self explanatory.
Fishing Reels
The fishing reel has evolved over the years from a simple piece of mechanical equipment to a complex high tech device. Each design has a function and purpose in mind and it is these factors which must be taken into consideration when choosing the best fishing reel for you. There is no such thing as an all purpose fishing reel – it is very important to match the rod to the reel, or vice versa. It is also important to consider its purpose and fishing application such as, strength of fish intending to catch, length of cast and the terrain/environment where you are fishing. Like anything it is best to use the right tool for the job.Things to consider when choosing a fishing reel
Drag systemThe most important feature to consider in any fishing reel is the drag system. The drag system is the tension added to the line by the fishing reel. It is important to set the drag system at enough tension for a large fish to pull line from the spool. If there is not enough tension fishing line will run freely from the spool when the fish tries to get away. If there is too much tension the fishing line has the potential to break. Matching the right tension to the fish comes with practice.
Gear ratio
Gear ratio refers to how many times the spool completes one revolution when the handle of the fishing reel does a complete turn. For example, a 6:1 gear ratio means that the spool does 6 revolutions to 1 complete turn of the handle.
The rule to go by is the higher the gear ratio the more revolutions the spool does for each turn of the handle. So for fast lure/bait movements a higher number of revolutions per handle turn is needed, so therefore a higher gear ratio is needed for this type of fishing application.
Line capacity
Depending on where you are fishing influences how much line capacity is needed, for example, a fishing reel for a boat rod would not need as much line capacity as a fishing reel for a beach rod – this is self explanatory.
Types of fishing reels
Overheads- Mounted on top of the fishing rod.
- The larger overcast reels are designed for strength rather than for casting.
- The smaller overhead reels are known as baitcasters.
- The larger overhead reels are known as game reels. These fishing reels are specifically designed for catching large fish, such as marlin, tuna etc.
- Mounted underneath the fishing rod.
- Also referred to as the 'eggbeater'.
- Very easy to learn to use – light, quick and easy casting, making it a popular choice as an excellent general fishing reel.
- Ideal for light-to-medium tackle fishing.
- Able to use a range of casting weights.
- Has a good drag system.
- Mounted on top of the fishing rod.
- Good fishing reel for short range casting with limited line capacity.
- Very easy to use.
- This fishing reel requires a spinning rod due to where the reel attaches to the rod.
- Mounted underneath the rod usually at the butt.
- Very user friendly – both easy to use and maintain.
- If the fishing reel needs a clean, a simple rinse under water is all it needs.
- This particular fishing reel is favoured by many beach and rock anglers.
- A strong fishing reel in terms of handling fish.
