Spinning Reels

The Spinning Reel is the most common type of fishing reel in use today. These reels come in many sizes and shapes, but they all share a common design concept, that is they are all based on an open spool mounted on the bottom of a rod coupled with a wire loop called a bail that guides the line back onto the spool. Spinning reels can be purchased for anything between $20 on up to $300 or more.

The spinning reel is quite popular due to the distance it casts and the relatively low cost of the reel. If you plan to do much freshwater fishing, chances are you will be using a spinning reel unless you are going after large bass or you prefer fly fishing. Spinning reels can last a long time if properly cared for and carefully selected.

One criteria you should pay close attention to when selecting your spinning rod is the number of bearings in the crank. Generally speaking, the more bearings the crank has, the less "play" the reel will have and the more smoothly it will crank. Bearing counts of six or more will get you a reel that will start turning the bail immediately with almost no play.

If properly cared for, you can expect your spinning reel to last for at least 10 years, and in many cases, much longer. Clean your reel at least once a year before fishing season starts, removing any dirt or grit that might increase the wear on the moving parts of the reel. Grease the moving parts once the reel is clean to ensure that you have smooth operation and to facilitate the protection of the reel against dirt and grit.

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Another thing that is critical to ensuring long life in your choice of spinning reels is to ensure that the reel matches your rod. Putting an ultra-light reel on a heavy rod or a heavy reel on an ultra-light rod is a sure way to shorten the life of that reel, and perhaps even the rod. Keep in mind that combo rods are usually set up with a mismatched reel and rod, so it is almost always better to buy the rod and reel separately.

By carefully selecting and caring for your spinning reel, you should get many good seasons out of your gear. While spinning reels are not usually very expensive, it still doesn't make sense to waste your money, no matter how little. Besides, who wants to run out and buy a new reel every year?