A great angling experience involves several factors like getting equipped with your fishing gear. One such fishing gear is a spincast reel. These reels work best for entry-level fishing because of many reasons. Let’s dig a bit deeper into the world of spincast reels and learn why they are such a popular option among beginners.
As a beginner, you must be curious to know everything about fishing. Here’s an interesting beginner’s guide on how to fish to bring an end to your curiosities.
Our Top Picks for Spincast Reels
The market today is flooded with various spincast reels, which can make the selection process overwhelming. While most of the spincast reels share many features, remember, they are not all the same.
The key to finding the best spincast reel lies in determining your fishing task. Find your purpose and walk through these shortlisted spincast reels that are all capable of enhancing your fishing experience, especially as a beginner.
What Is a Spincast Reel?
Simply put, spincast reels are a hybrid version of the two popular types of reels: spinning and baitcasting reels. It is a closed face reel paired with a casting rod and uses floating bait to attract the fish and hook them. This casting rod is different from other reels as it comes with a cover that protects the spool and the fishing line.
Although, it does have similarities to both spinning and baitcasting reels, which is why we have termed it as their hybrid version. Just like the baitcasting reel, the spincast reel is found on the top of the rod. On the other hand, its spool is similar to that of the spinning reel and follows the same pattern to control the fishing line.
Benefits of Using Spincast Reels
- Using a spincast reel is not at all complex. Not only newcomers, but even students and kids can try their hand at using spincast reels for fishing.
- Unlike baitcasting reels, they eliminate the risk of backlashes
- The spincast reels prevent the lines from getting tangled
- They are easy to manage and also reliable for anglers who want to target small to medium fishes in uncovered waters
- They have an uncomplicated, solid, as well as lightweight construction
- They are affordable than both spinning and baitcasting reels
- They are ideal for small fishes like trout, panfish, walleye, and small bass
As said above, using a spincast reel will prevent the backlash issues that you may face while using baitcasting reels. It is not only best for anglers having basic skills but also for the veterans who wish to have an affordable reel.
How Do Spincast Reels Work?
The first and foremost thing to understand its working mechanism is to get familiar with the line release method. Regardless of what spincast reel you choose, it will come with a button or a lever. You can make the cast by engaging them to release the line.
Once the trap touches the water, you can secure the line by rotating the handle. At this time, you can re-engage the mechanism as per the requirement. By then, the drag system will also be ready to release the line while keeping it tight at the same time.
Now, make your cast by pressing the button or pulling the lever – whatever your spincast reel features. As soon as you acquire enough momentum, release it. This pressing and releasing of the button or level will retract the pins, which will, in turn, allow the line to flow freely from the spool.
Last, twist the handle till you feel that the line is tight. That’s all you need to do if you are using spincast reels. Just make sure to manage your drag adjustment properly. If you want to increase it, spin the wheel in the ‘+’ direction. Similarly, spinning it in the ‘-‘ direction will decrease it.
Planning to purchase a spincast reel to begin your fishing journey? It’s great to have an understanding of their components. This will not only save you time, money, and effort but will also help you choose the best spincast reel for your future fishing expeditions.
Important Features to Consider When Purchasing a Spincast Reel
Simple Design with User-Friendly Control
The simplicity and user-friendliness of the spincast reels are indeed unmatched. However, as there are many varieties available on the market, you may want to check those that come with a push-button. The push-button spincast reels are very easy to operate and work best for amateurs who are learning the art of fishing.
Materials
Generally, the common materials used for high-end rods include graphite, aluminum, and other such metals. As long as your budget permits, aim to get a spincast reel of one of these materials if you are looking for a durable option.
You’ll even come across the plastic spincast reels that are easily manageable and light in weight. However, they are only good for kids.
Check out some of the best fishing rod and reel combos that you can consider for your fishing expeditions.
Size
It’s best to choose a spincast reel that is lighter and smaller in size. At the same time, be sure to choose a size that does not compromise durability and performance. Don’t consider buying a large reel if you’re already using lightweight fishing gear. Cutting weight is mandatory as fishing is all about endurance.
Bearings
While choosing the spincast reel, go with the ones that have powerful bearings. The two most desirable materials to consider here is either ceramic or stainless steel. Ceramic bearings are resistant to rust and corrosion and have almost frictionless spinning.
However, the spincast reels that have ceramic bearings are fragile and quite expensive. On the other hand, stainless steel bearings won’t give you as smooth a performance as ceramic ones. But, at the same time, they too are extremely resistant to corrosion and are not as expensive.
Gear Ratio
The more, the merrier – follow this rule while checking your preferred spincast reel’s gear ratio. Gear ratio is the number of times a spool rotates while spinning the handle. Spincast reels typically have gear ratios between 2.5 to 4.5:1. Considering a spincast reel with a higher gear ratio is always recommended.
Take-Up Pins
Take-up pins are responsible for gathering the lines as you retrieve them. They start working as soon as you start spinning the handle. However, as they tend to wear faster, they can decrease the line retrieval potential. It’s best to choose a spincast reel that includes metal take-up pins. They are sure to last longer as compared to the plastic ones.
Drag System
Having a proper drag system not only prevents the fish from pulling the line but also fixes the hook in the mouth of the fish. This, in turn, gives you time to reel it in slowly. However, don’t get a spincast reel with a huge drag, as these reels are not suitable for fishing large fish.
Anti-Reverse System
If you’re a beginner, it is essential to consider the anti-reverse system while choosing a spincast reel. It will help you release the line while preventing you from spinning the handle. Some reels have a switch to turn it on and off manually, while others have an automatic anti-reverse system. Either way, it’s best to go with the spincast reel with an anti-reverse function.
Wrapping It Up
Apart from the listed products, you’ll find various options available on the market. Whether you wish to buy a classic or a newer model – there will always be a spincast reel that suits your needs. Eventually, you will need more than one reel, so don’t stress much about finding a reel that does it all.
For now, understand the factors you need to consider and determine the features you’re looking for from a spincast reel. The selection process will then be an easy job with the above shortlisted spincast reels.
What features you look for while deciding the best spincast reel? Have you ever tried fishing using one of the spincast reels from our list? Share your experience with us in the comments below.
