Different fishing reels are needed for different waters and fishing styles

Fishing reels are the most essential component of fishing gear. However, there are so many manufacturers and so many different types of fishing reels, how do you know which one is best for you. Each of the three main types; spincasting, spinning and baitcasting has its own advantages and disadvantages. The type you choose depends on the type of angling you do. Then you have to decide which manufacturer to go with. You could purchase a bait-casting, or other type of reel from Shimano, Okuma or Abu Garcia knowing that all of these companies make all kinds of gear for fishermen and some even have special clothing.

In addition, to purchasing fishing reels, anglers also have to purchase trolling lures. These lures are designed to attract particular species of fish and range in size from 3 inches to 18 inches. If you are angling for larger species, then a large lure is what you need. However, it is possible to catch a very large fish with a small lure. It also depends on how experienced a fisher you are especially if you are baitcasting.

Using fishing reels for the first time can be frustrating. Beginners often start with a closed-face reel (like the one's Zebco is famous for) because the design helps keep the line from becoming tangled. The next style is most commonly the spin-cast or spinning reel where the reel hangs under the rod and the line is openly visible. The line is controlled by a bail that you have to open before you cast. You also have to hold the line with you forefinger bent to keep the line from coming off the spool.  This requires some practice, but is nothing like a baitcaster. 

Baitcasting requires a lot of practice before you become comfortable and accurate.  You need to learn how to control the tension of the line, the weight of the lure, and the power of your cast to get everything right.  But once you do, they're great fun. This is a popular choice with pro bass fishers.

Learning to use all three types of fishing reels will give you enormous experience in the angling world. It will enable you to expand the areas in which you fish and the species that you can catch.

Reels Online

We have spent quite some time researching quality online sources of fishing reels, parts, and accessories.  The sites listed below provide consistently high levels of service, support, and of course quality fishing reels, and other fishing gear.

• Bob Wards
  Choose from a HUGE selection of fishing reels that are in stock at all times. Reels are shipped out (usually free) the same day.
• eBay Canada 
  eBay is the place to find incredible deals on new fishing gear. If you live in the U.S. you can save a bundle on the exchange rates.
• eBay UK 
  eBay UK provides our fishing friends on the other side of the pond a great place to pick up reel deals on fishing reels and equipment of all sorts.
• Sportsmans Guide  
  The Sportsman's Guide has only one goal: to provide top quality products and services to those of us who love hunting and fishing.

More about Reels

If you are looking for more information on fishing reels use the link and hook into some great information on fishing reels.

Fishing Reel Maintenance
- If you follow some simple 'rules of thumb' you can add years to the life of your reel.