Getting The Most Out Of Your Spinning Reel

Along with repair concerns, questions about spinning reels are the most commonly asked questions that are asked in a tackle shop. Anglers are always interested in making sure they know how to spool their reels and they are almost always interested in knowing what the heaviest possible line is that their reel will hold. Ironically enough, you don’t really need to ask about this in a tackle shop – nor do you have to work in one to know the answer.

In the spring in the northeastern part of the United States, new schools of bass can be found in the local rivers. This is the time that fisherman will be looking for heavier line to accommodate this type of fishing. Most are convinced that they need 20-lb line or even heavier. This is especially true of the novice angler – they are often ill equipped with a reel that isn’t sufficient for this type of line, but remain determined to try it. Unfortunately, this will almost always end badly as reels are geared towards specific line weights.

A quick look at the side of reel spool will easily clue the angler in on the best line length and size for their particular reel. Exceeding these limits will create casting issues – including choppy casting and ultimately – knots, clumps and other inconveniences that can ruin a great day of fishing. It’s important to note that the data on the side of the reel is based on monofilament line. By its nature, monofilament has a memory – that means that once it’s placed on the reel, it will retain its shape and conform to the reel. Of course, this also means that it begins to coil which can create issues when casting if you don’t exercise proper caution. The heavier the line, the stiffer it is and of course this means more coils. Once you open the bail and the line starts to come off the spool any pressure you put on it causes it so slow down and also causes friction. The end result could be a disaster – for instance a short, tangled cast.

In a perfect world, there would be a reel for each purpose. For many anglers, braided line is the answer – its smaller diameter and lack of memory combined with far more strength than monofilament helps ensure a good cast. Because braided line doesn’t ‘remember’ the shape it was originally in, it is perfect for those who are trying to cast long distances. It also has a slippery coating that helps keep the casting smooth. One drawback of braided line is the fact that it is far less abrasion resistant, but this can be resolved by simply using a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader in conjunction with braided line.

One of the most common problems we see is spools that are not filled completely. This lack of recommended line greatly hampers your ability to cast, since it causes an undue amount of friction on the spool’s outer lip once you release the line. Conversely, too much line also hurts your cast, so do your best to keep the spool filled to roughly 1/8 of an inch below the lip.

You don’t have to have a degree in engineering to fix your spinning reel’s problems once you learn the fundamentals of reel and line cooperation. Simply keep your spool filled adequately, learn recommended line size and length, and, if push comes to shove, use thin braided line to keep to the recommended amounts. After all, you will have a much better fishing trip if your reel is as it should be.

When you are deciding on which type of reel is right for you, doing the proper research is the best thing you could do. There are many manufacturers out on the market today, some of the most popular reels include Penn 975 Reel, Penn 209, and Daiwa SLD30.