by jeff ryall

When it comes to fishing, the right equipment is essential if you want to actually catch anything. It can literally be the difference between having cramp in your hand and fishing effortlessly. One piece of equipment that is extremely important is the fishing reel.

The Different Types of Freshwater Fishing Reels

Long gone are the days when fishing included a long stick and a limited length of fishing line. These days, high tech equipment is often used including high tech rods and high tech fishing reels.

There are three main types of freshwater fishing reels. These are,

Spin casting Reels

These reels are placed on top of the rod and are ideal for beginners as they are easy to use and inexpensive.

Bait casting Reels

Bait casting reels also sit on the top of the rod. They are otherwise known as Casting reels. They offer fishermen more control while fighting a fish and casting a fish inland. Their downside, however, is that they can be difficult to use, so they are definitely not good for beginners. They are also susceptible to Backlash which basically means the line becomes tangled.

Spinning Reels

Spinning Reels hang below the rod and are often a lot more expensive than other types. However, they can cast further and are also more versatile. They are easy to use and are suitable for beginners. The great thing about these reels is that the handle can be changed to suit either right or left handed people.

The Various Components That Make Up the Fishing Reel

So, you know the types of reels available, but what about the components of the reel. There are various factors you need to take into consideration before choosing the right one for you.

The Spool varies in size and it is the part of the reel that holds the line. Each Spool holds a different amount of fishing line and therefore, you need to choose carefully which size you will need. When purchasing your Spool, look for how much weight it can hold and how long it is. You will see a listing similar to 10-250 or 15-160 that basically means it holds 10 pound test and there is 250 yards of line, or it holds 15 pound test and there is 160 yards of line. It is really simple once you know what you are looking for.

The Bail is another thing you have to consider. There are two settings on the Bail open and closed. It is what stops the line coming off the Spool. Before you are set to cast your line, you open the Bail. Once you have cast the line, you should turn the handle as this closes the Bail. Once the handle is turned, it makes a clicking noise that simply means that the Bail is closed. You will not always hear the click, but do not worry if you dont.

The Drag makes it hard for fish to pull more line from the Spool. When a fish is fighting with the rod, the rod absorbs the shock and the Drag engages and makes it more difficult for the fish to get any extra line. It is always worth checking the drag throughout the day, just to see that it is properly set.

Overall, the best type of freshwater fishing reels are the Spinning Reels because of their versatility and their ease of use. They may be more expensive but they are definitely worth it and they should last a long time!

About the Author

Jeff Ryall runs a fishing website that focuses on information about fishing and fishing related products. You can enjoy reading tips, tricks and techniques about fishing at his site at http://www.fishermansfriend1.blogspot.com