If an angler is just discovering the world of spinning fishing, or was forced to take a long break, then immediately after choosing a spinning blank, he will need to choose a spinning reel.
You can’t rush in this matter, since successful fishing largely depends on correctly selected gear and equipment. The range of reels produced on the market is not limited to simple and cheap or expensive and multifunctional options.
Everyone will be able to choose a suitable model according to their needs and capabilities and install it on a spinning rod. To do this, you need to know several features and rules.
The quality of the cord laying indicates the quality of the spinning reel
What reels are used on spinning rods: pros and cons of models
You can find various spinning reels on sale. It is difficult for a beginner to understand the features and nuances. You need to know what options exist, take into account the positive and negative aspects of each of them.
Types of spinning reels that can be purchased:
- Inertial - are a classic. Used in sport fishing. They have increased sensitivity. Disadvantages: not suitable for beginners, require experience and skills in handling equipment.
- Inertialess – used for installation on 90% of spinning rods. It is easy to customize to suit the characteristics of a particular spinning rod; various types are available for sale. Cons: the diversity of the model range will require certain knowledge and skills when choosing a specific model.
- Multiplier – reinforced type coils. Can be used for catching large fish, used in large bodies of water and when spinning in the seas.
The fisherman himself decides which reel to choose for a spinning rod; for beginners, perhaps, it is worth choosing the inertia-free options. It is recommended to take into account the type of reservoir, fishing experience and type of fish. The spinning parameters also influence the selection of the reel.
What to look for when choosing a spinning reel
In the selection process, you need to take into account the size of the reel, gear ratio, number of bearings, and the design of the line guide. The general options to choose from will be:
- Smooth ride.
- Availability, quantity and quality of bearings.
- Spool size.
- Switching the line handle.
- Handle type.
- Friction brake.
- Reel weight.
It is advisable to choose the front brake in an inertialess reel for spinning, as it is more sensitive.
The dimensions of the reels are a parameter that is one of the most important values when initially choosing a meat grinder or multi for spinning tackle. The selection in this case takes into account the type of gear. Different types of spinning reels are suitable for different brands of tackle. The balance indicator depends on the size of the coil.
When assembling a spinning rod, ideal balance is important - the index finger in front of the stand for attaching the reel to the blank: the spinning rod does not fall towards either the tulip or the butt
The correct setting of the spinning rod should be such that the handle does not overweight or deviate in one direction or another when placing a finger in front of the leg that attaches the reel to the blank.
You can determine what size spool you need by taking into account the power and length of the spinning blank. The universal size is considered to be 2000-3000 according to Shimano. For powerful spinning rods (for catching large predatory fish), reels of size 3000-4000 are suitable. When catching catfish up to 5000.
For ultralight gear, a reel spool rating of 500-1500 is suitable.
Reel size and amount of line that can be wound onto the spool
Different types of fishing reels are made using different materials. If metal is used to make the spool, the structure will be strong and durable, but its weight will increase. When assembling such gear, you can use a braided cord.
Plastic can be recommended for beginners. This material wears out quickly and does not withstand mechanical stress. You can only use fishing line in such a reel.
Aluminum is a lightweight and quite durable material. It can be chosen when you need to purchase higher quality spinning reels. Such models are lighter, making it easier to find balance when assembling gear.
The total weight of the reel is determined by its size and material. For long-term fishing, it is best to purchase models of multipliers or meat grinders made of lightweight materials. If you use one of the inertia-free models, then you need to remember that if the rod is long, then a light-weight option is not suitable.
There are special recommendations on how to select spinning reels, taking into account the type and weight:
- Inertial – up to 180 grams.
- Inertia-free -190-250 grams
- Multiplier - 240-800 grams.
Beginners can watch a video on how to choose a reel based on weight and other parameters:
Gear ratio of the main pair of gears
The gear ratio of the main pair of gears also needs to be taken into account when choosing the type of coil. The peculiarity in this case is as follows: the higher the indicator, the faster this element of gear will be. Experienced fishermen recommend choosing options for spinning rods where the number does not exceed 5.2-5.4:1. Otherwise, the speed of exhaustion will be high, but the traction will not become worse.
The gear ratio affects how much line will be pulled out per revolution of the reel handle.
Another indicator that needs to be taken into account is the number of bearings. It is believed that a good spinning reel should have a large number of these elements. The indicator is associated with smoothness and ease of movement.
Number of bearings
Experienced fishermen indicate that the optimal figure is 6-8 bearings, since a larger number will not affect smoothness, but will cause an increase in the weight and price of the reel. Such indicators are optimal if you use an ultralight spinning reel, a universal version for medium spin, or a powerful jig version.
Friction clutch
When thinking about choosing a spinning reel, you need to consider the type of friction brake. A high-quality element of gear is necessary regardless of the weight of the caught fish.
It is necessary to pay attention to such an indicator as the location of the adjusting screw. According to this indicator, the tackle is divided into options with front or rear adjustment. Each of them provides the opportunity for quality fishing. The choice depends on the individual preferences of the fisherman. Plus, according to some anglers, the front drag is more sensitive than the rear type.
Line roller
Another point that you need to look at when selecting a suitable option is which line roller is installed.
The important parameters here are the design and the material chosen for production. The design of the roller determines its ability to work with braided cords and its resistance to mechanical damage and shock. A low-quality roller will require replacement after 3-5 fishing trips, as it will be cut through with braid.
Braid winding quality
When considering different types of reels, you need to pay attention to how the method of winding fishing line or thin cords is implemented. Here you need to remember that even and high-quality laying without visible defects (lumpy, dips, the presence of cones) increases the ease of use of the gear during active fishing.
Type of fish
You also need to select a reel based on what kind of fish you are going to catch. Experienced fishermen point out that spinning fishing for predators (perch, trout, chub) is possible using small varieties of wobblers, spinners, and microjig baits. In this case, the optimal solution would be to use spinning reels. Spool parameters 1500-2000 according to Shimano.
It is best to choose an option with a front friction brake, a gear ratio of about 5.0:1. 6-8 bearings should be installed.
If fishing involves a larger predator - pike, pike perch, large perch, then a multiplier or a power spinning reel of 2500-3000 Shimano can be used.
This option is also suitable for catching pike perch or asp and fishing using medium and large spoons, wobblers or silicone baits.
Selection by test
In order to avoid mistakes in the coil selection process, it is recommended to take into account the blank test indicators. Below is how to select a reel for a spinning rod using the test (table):
| Spinning test indicators | Tackle (dimensions) |
| Up to 5 g | 500 |
| 10-15 g | 2000 |
| 30-40 gr | 2000-3500 |
| 40-70 gr | 3000-3500 |
If the weight of the spinning rod exceeds 70 grams, then the reel should be selected with a Shimano spool rating of 3000-4000.
If you choose a reel model with a Shimano 2000-3000 spool, it should have 6-8 ball bearings. It is best to choose an option where the main pair of bearings is made of cold forged material.
It is recommended to give preference to a sensitive friction brake. For large fish species, you need to choose a powerful reel. If you purchase a power version, then there should already be 8-10 bearings (for a large predator).
It is best to choose a model that has a powerful friction brake with front adjustment. An additional advantage will be the presence of mechanisms that ensure high-quality laying of the fishing line.
Animators
Now many fishermen, especially “advanced” ones, choose multiplier reels as spinning reels for pike. They have their advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages of multipliers, the following should be noted:
- power, allowing you to cast and carry heavy baits, use thick cords and powerful rods;
- simplicity, reliability, durability of the design;
- a thick cord is not an obstacle to long casting;
- the cord does not twist when casting;
- with a multiplier it is easy to control the wiring;
- confidence when winning a trophy.
The disadvantages of fishing with a multiplier include:
- inconvenience and sometimes impossibility of fishing with light baits;
- the need to adjust the brake system;
- the appearance of “beards” during casting due to lack of experience.
There are two types of multipliers:
- “Kegs.” They are used for fishing with heavy jigs, jerkbaits, large, heavy wobblers, and also for trolling.
- “Soap dishes” (low profile reels). Used for more delicate fishing with relatively light baits.
Expert opinion
Knipovich Nikolai Mikhailovich
Zoologist, hydrobiologist. I am interested in fishing at a professional level.
Important! The main characteristic of the multiplier is the gear ratio, which for freshwater bodies is usually 4.7-5.2. The power of the coil depends on this number.
When setting up a multiplier reel, you need to remember that it usually uses two brake systems: centrifugal and magnetic .
In the first case, the reel is equipped with small movable weights. Their friction against the partition occurs during centrifugal rotation of the spool and this, in turn, causes braking. Magnetic brakes consist of a system of small magnets. The brakes are adjusted manually based on the weight of the selected bait.
Multiplier reels come in right-handed and left-handed varieties . Of the manufacturers that produce reels of the highest quality, you should pay attention to Abu Garsia, Shimano and Daiwa.
Rating of the best spinning reels: top 20 reels of different types
Our rating of spinning reels for 2021:
- Ryobi ECUSIMA 3000.
- Shimano Nexave RC 1000.
- VOLZHANKA Fortune 3000.
- DAIWA Sweepfire.
- Kaida Differ.
- Shimano Biomaster FB 1000.
- DAIWA Ballistic LT 2500D XH.
- RUBICON Alkazat.
- RYOBI Virtus.
- VOLZHANKA Meteor 3000.
- Daiwa Exceler 100H.
- SHIMANO Caius A.
- KOSADAKA Absolut.
- GRFISH Black Sea.
- KOSADAKA SIERRA.
- SHIMANO CURADO 201 IHG.
- Abu Garcia Revo MGX-L LP.
- Banax Kaigen 500XP.
- DAIWA Tatula SV TW.
- Okuma COLD WATER CW-303D.
Each person decides for himself which reel is best for the spinning rod that he already has. All of the listed reel models are durable, reliable and comfortable. Differences occur in technical parameters, for example, the materials used or the number of bearings.
TOP spinning fishing reels Shimano and Daiwa:
Rating of spinning reels - the best models
Spinning reels, rating of models - this is an important topic, without a review of which it will be difficult for a novice spinning angler to navigate the variety of spinning reels present on the fishing market today. The quality of work and the balance of the tackle as a whole depend on the correctly selected reel. This means that this issue needs to be taken seriously.
There are quite a lot of criteria for choosing coils. The main ones that can be highlighted are:
- Fishing method and bait used.
- Fishing conditions in which the gear will be used.
- Quality workmanship and manufacturer.
- Reel cost.
These are the main questions that an angler must answer when choosing a spinning reel for spinning fishing. Multipliers will be discussed in another article; how to choose a multiplier can be found here.
Before presenting the rating of spinning reels, you need to understand which products you should pay attention to first. Today, the best manufacturers of spinning wheels are the famous Japanese companies Shimano and Daiwa. They are considered the standard of quality.
Some models are very expensive and only a few can afford them. There are a lot of mid-budget and budget reels in the range that are designed for the simple fisherman. If possible, you should definitely try to buy yourself a reel from Daiwa or Shimano.
In addition to these Japanese manufacturers, we can also mention others whose reels have been on the market for quite a long time and some models have become popular, which is why they are included in our top 10 spinning reels. These are the famous Ryobi, Salmo, Okuma and Kosadaka.
When choosing a spinning reel for spinning fishing, you must pay attention to the quality of workmanship. Of course, fishermen’s reviews about this or that inertia-free model are also important. There is a detailed article about what to look for and how to choose a reel here.
So, let's go directly to the review of the best products at the moment. This rating of spinning reels includes models from the expensive, mid-range, and budget segments in order to cover the entire range of spinning reels presented in fishing stores.
Our rating includes the most expensive spinning reel from a well-known Japanese company. Belongs to the elite class and is a modified continuation of the Ignis series. Today, Daiwa Emeraldas is popular, first of all, among professional fishermen, who value it for the highest quality and reliability.
This reel model is made using the most advanced innovative technologies from modern materials. The Emeraldas series mainly contains models for light and ultra-light fishing. Can be used for trout fishing, hunting for chub, perch, grayling, lenok, asp and pike. Detailed review
Also an elite class model from another famous manufacturer. This spinning reel periodically undergoes various modifications and is released in new series with improved characteristics. Today, the best is considered to be Twin Power 15 - the 2015 model, which has absorbed all the best developments of Shimano engineers.
This inertia-free product is available in a wide range of sizes. It can be used for ultralight and light, for jigging and twitching, for fishing with spaced rigs and in other spinning directions. Its distinctive feature is the ideal laying of the cord on any jerk wiring. Thanks to this, the thinnest braids can be wound onto its spool. Detailed review.
Don't know how to wind fishing line onto a reel? Detailed guide.
The reel is from the middle price segment. It is often chosen by many advanced spinning players who know a lot about reels. At its reasonable cost, it is endowed with good performance characteristics. Daiwa Freams are reliable, powerful and durable, durable and long lasting.
In the series of these spinning reels there are models for light spinning and for “adult” fishing methods. Daiwa Freams performed well in jigging and twitching thanks to its traction performance and good line laying.
This reel can be classified as the upper level of the budget segment. Positioned as universal, suitable for various spinning directions. We can note the ergonomic design, ease of movement, and low weight. The line lay is not bad, but it is inferior to more expensive models, so with thin cords and when fishing with jerk baits, loops may occasionally drop. Read the full reel review.
Installing a reel on a spinning rod
When a reel is purchased, beginners have a question about how to install a suitable model on a spinning rod. There are no difficulties here:
- You need to unscrew the fastener.
- Insert a suitable reel into the special mount (holder located on the handle).
- You must then tighten the ring so that it tightens the base of the coil.
- Tighten tightly so that the coil does not deviate to the sides.
Care must be taken not to strip the thread during the tightening process. In 90% of cases, this element is made of ordinary plastic. After studying this video, it will become clear how to equip a spinning rod with a reel in a few minutes:
Storage and transportation
In order to ensure maximum safety of your gear, it is recommended to purchase a cover for a spinning rod with a reel.
In most cases, inexpensive spinning reels do not come with additional accessories for storage or movement.
Even a good reel can be sold without protective covers, so experienced fishermen recommend purchasing in advance covers and special accessories for reels, lines, hooks and other equipment that may be useful when fishing.
Tips and tricks
According to reviews from customers, experienced fishermen and professional athletes, even a spinning reel from Aliexpress can last a long time. You should not immediately purchase an expensive copy if you do not yet have enough experience. First you need a simple and lightweight reel.
Its main parameter is reliability. Before choosing a reel, you need to inspect several copies. Attention will need to be paid to how the line layer works. To do this you will need to make 4-5 revolutions. This will help determine how smooth the move will be and how the tension occurs.
Another recommendation is to carefully read all the features indicated on the packaging. In most cases, the manufacturer provides advice on purchasing additional accessories and initial setup. Sometimes it is necessary to install only certain models on the form in order to obtain maximum comfort. Universal advice - if a person purchases a reel for the first time, it is better to go to a store or place an order on the website under the guidance of an experienced fisherman.
It is necessary to wind the fishing line (cord) onto the reel under load. It is best if the cord is damp. In this case, installation will go quickly, it will lie smoothly, and no bumps or irregularities will form. Before you begin the main winding process, you need to pass the line through the first ring. The reel itself should be securely fixed to the butt in the reel seat at this moment.
Choosing a spinning reel for pike fishing. Top 10 best models
Inertia-free reels are light, compact and make spinning not only convenient, but also an elegant piece of equipment in a modern way. This is a precise and complex mechanism, the trouble-free operation of which is ensured by both careful handling and the precise execution of all operations in handling it. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary for a spinner to know its structure at least in general terms.
Currently, this type of reel is the most popular not only among spinning players. Spinning reels are very easy to use. They allow you to cast light bait over long distances. Correctly filling the spool with fishing line virtually eliminates the formation of a “beard,” that is, tangling of the fishing line.
The disadvantages include the complexity of the design, which in cheap products is not entirely reliable, especially in the case of catching large trophies, as well as twisting of the fishing line, which is inevitable due to the very principle of operation of the inertia-free mechanism. The fact is that when casting, the fishing line comes off the spool and is wound onto its drum when the handle is rotated in different planes.
There are characteristics that must be taken into account when purchasing a particular spinning reel.
For different purposes, spinning reels with different characteristics are produced. For fishing with a spinning rod, rotation speed and power are important, which in principle do not go well together. In other words, the more line the reel winds in one turn of the handle, the less suitable it is for landing large fish. Therefore, when fishing for pike, it is advisable to purchase a reel with a medium gear ratio (1:6 is the ratio of the handle rotation to the rotation of the line guide around the spool). For bottom fishing, the power of the reel is more important, so their gear ratio ranges from 1:3.5 to 1:4.5. For match fishing, when frequent recasts are made, reels with a gear ratio of 1:8 and higher are produced, reeling in 80 cm or more of line per revolution of the spool.
Spool diameter also plays a role in casting distance. There are two points of view here. Firstly, there is no doubt that the larger the diameter, the fewer turns of line will need to come off the spool for a certain distance. On the other hand, if we take into account such a characteristic as line memory, that is, the ability to form rings due to winding, which will reduce the slip of the line when passing the rod ring closest to the reel, then the best would be a spool with a diameter close to the diameter of the very first ring. Currently, given the possibility of choosing an elastic (with “weak” memory) fishing line, this point is losing its relevance.
The cam shaft and hypoid gear are the main components of this device. An endless screw is a rather complex mechanism that ensures that the fishing line is laid on the spool drum in such a way that the upper turns do not clamp the underlying turns, which as a result ensures the longest cast.
The role of bearings is common. They evenly distribute the load on the rotating coil units. Therefore, the more of them, the better the quality of the coil. But this does not mean that an Okuma reel with 8 bearings is better than a Daiwa reel with 5 bearings, since the quality of the parts and the material from which they are made play a huge role. This is why some reels cost over $300.
