Spinning Reel vs. Bait Casting Reel

Which Is Better: a spinning reel or a bait casting reel? They both have their own unique benefits, making them essential for anglers all across the county. When you compare the two, you’ll see that each belongs in your collection.

SPINNING REEL

A spinning reel is one of the most basic pieces of fishing equipment. A fixed spool is held underneath the rod, and the line from a spinning reel is pulled out by the weight of the tackle. 

Benefits: The biggest benefit for a spinning reel is its all-around versatility. These reels can be used for casting many types of tackle, including live bait and artificial lures. They are particularly useful for throwing light tackle, because they only need to pull the weight of the line, not a heavier rotating spool.

Drawbacks: Many anglers move on from spinning reels because they don’t allow for the precision casting that other reels deliver. Stopping a bad cast from going into trees or weeds can be a challenge, as you’ll need to drop the bail, which can be tough to reach in a split-second.

Generally, a spinning reel is a great item for anglers who want to get started with a wide variety of fishing lures and tackle. Thanks to their versatility and relatively simple use, they make a perfect choice for anglers looking for their first rod-and-reel package.

BAIT CASTING REEL

When you are ready to step up your fishing skills, one of the first things you should do is purchase a bait-casting reel. With a bait-casting reel, the spool rotates when you cast, paying out line while the lure flies. They require practice and experience, but they can be very effective for making the perfect cast on a regular basis.

Benefits: Accuracy and precision. That’s what you’ll be rewarded with when you use a bait-casting reel. They are the preferred choice for heavier lures like large spinner baits and spoons. Bait casting reels also allow you to stop a cast instantly, as all you need to do is put your thumb on the reel, and the lure is stopped in its tracks.

Drawbacks: While a bait-casting reel is essential for any experienced angler, they won’t pay off on the first day. They take lots of practice to master and some anglers, especially those who only go out a few times a year, may not find it worth the effort. They can be difficult to cast straight, and if you don’t stop the spool when the lure lands, the line keeps unraveling, which usually results in big rat’s nest.

Watch a few professional bass fishing videos. Look closely and you’ll see that they use bait-casting reels almost exclusively. These experts have put in hours of practice and they can use these reels to place lures exactly where they want them. Put in some time with your bait-casting reel and you’ll be rewarded with more precision, and more fish.