What You Need to Know About Fishing Reels

What are the different types of Fishing Reel?

Spinning Reels -Since they are adaptable and may be used in any Australian fishing environment, including freshwater and saltwater, rivers, lakes, fishing from a boat, down the beach, or off the rocks, spinning reels are our most popular type of reel. They are really easy to use and a fantastic option for fishermen of all skill levels. They do come in various reel sizes, depending on your target species and fishing location in Australia. With Spinning reel sizings, the higher the number of the reel the larger the size is.

Small Sized Spin Reels- Are excellent for light fishing methods which may include fishing in freshwater or saltwater lakes and rivers for species including Australian bass, trout, bream, flathead, whiting, and other light sport fish. We often categorise small spin reel sizes as falling within the 1000 and 3000 size range.

Medium Size Spin Reels - Those who fish heavier inshore are most effective with reel sizes like a 4000 or 5000. In this case, we're targeting species like jewfish, barramundi, murray cod, and more. Additionally, light offshore sport and reef fishing are a wonderful fit for medium-sized spin reels.

Large Size Spin Reels -are typically the preferred method for anglers that fish from boats, rocks, or the beach in Australia while using heavy fishing gear. Large reels typically measure 6000 inches or more.

Baitrunner Reels -Baitrunner Fishing Reels are similar to spinning reels but also have a lever that, when depressed, disengages the main drag, allowing a fish to bite and run before you pick your strike. This lever is typically situated around the base of the reel. Shimano owns the trademark "Baitrunner," however products under other companies may go by names like "live liner," "free spooler," "bait teaser," or something similar. Anglers that fish from boats and Australian beaches for species like snapper or mulloway, where the fish can be a little shy, tend to use reels in the Baitrunner style. For those anglers who want to include the baitrunner technique into their inshore lake and river fishing as well, we also have smaller reel sizes available.

Overhead Reels -Overhead Fishing Reels are very popular among anglers who fish from offshore boats in Australia, and this is for a few reasons. They have rather generous line capacity, which are frequently needed for offshore fishing, and they are quite simple for any angler to use. Overhead fishing reels are typically best suited for boat anglers who simply drop a line or stick a lure out for a troll. You must use an overhead rod with this type of reel, so be mindful of the fishing rod you have.

Baitcaster Reels -Baitcaster Fishing Reels come in either a round or low profile shape. Although they are overhead reels, their lower profiles make them considerably more appropriate for inshore fishing techniques. A baitcaster is designed mainly for precise casting over shorter distances in difficult structures. They are popular by Australian fishermen who target species like Murray Cod or Barramundi. If you purchase a baitcaster reel you will need a baitcaster rod.

Game Fishing Reels -For offshore game fishing, you can use a game reel to catch large saltwater offshore fish like marlin, tuna, shark, and a variety of other Australian big fish due to the increased line capacity.

How do I know what Fishing Reel Specs to Choose?

The right fishing reel for your Australian fishing tackle depends on the species and conditions you are fishing in. Some technical terms used in fishing reel specifications are explained below to help you choose the correct fishing reel.

Ball Bearings -Reduces friction, can relieve pressure on other reel mechanics, and helps the reel function and run more smoothly. So, does a reel with more ball bearings perform better than one with less bearings?  No, not always. The effectiveness of the bearings used determines this. Due to the use of high-quality bearings, a suitable reel from a renowned brand like Shimano, Daiwa, or Penn may just contain 3 or 4 bearings but still make a somewhat respectable reel.

Gear Ratio - is the number of times the rotor will turn on a spinning reel with each handle crank, or the number of times the spool will rotate in the case of an overhead.  Consequently, if a spinning reel is stated to have a 6:1 gear ratio, the rotor should rotate roughly six times for every full 360-degree rotation of the handle. Low speed reels are typically those with a speed of 5.5:1 or less, whereas high speed reels are typically any reel with a gear ratio of roughly 5.6:1 or above.Low speed reels are great options for individuals who fish the depths for massive, powerful fish and need a greater cranking force than speed. High speed reels are the best choices for those who spin with lures and need a speedy retrieve.

Max Drag -Maximum drag ratings are a common measure that some anglers like to use when selecting their new fishing reel, and the majority of fishing tackle manufacturers disclose them in their reel specifications. This figure is especially helpful for anglers who prefer to keep their gear as light as possible but want to fish with a stronger line class since it offers the angler an indication of just how capable the reel is for their target species in Australia.