Choosing a spinning reel can be a bit tricky, especially if you're new to the sport or if you're looking for upgrading your current equipment. There are several factors to consider when selecting the right spinning reel for your needs. Here's a pocket guide to help you make an informed decision.

What reel size should I choose?

When you look at the different sizes on a spinning reel it generally refers to the amount of line capacity you can have on your spool. 

A smaller spinning reel will fit less line and is suited for more finesse fishing catching smaller species. As a big spinning reel will give you longer casts and more line to fight those bigger fish and species. 

If you are fishing smaller areas, streams, small ponds, or creeks, a 500 to 1000 sized reel is your choice. These sizes serve a younger anglers too.

Spinning reels of this size range tend to be lightweight and well balanced on lighter and smaller rods. They are suitable for shorter precision casts in smaller areas and for the smallest members of your family.

Recommendations for a lightweight reels:

2000-3000 sized spinning reels are the most popular. They will cover a lot of different fishing situations and multispecies all over the world. A reel this size will have enough line capacity to make average to long casts and fight with various number of fish. 

Recommendations for a multipurpose reels:

A 3500 to 5000 sized spinning reel is the choice if you are aiming for bigger predators. Northern pike, salmon, and even some catfish. The spool is bigger and usually deeper. Wich gives you the ability to have a lot more line in thicker dimensions. In addition to this, all the internal components are designed to hold up for bigger fish and longer fights. 

Recommendations for bigger predator reels:

Are you fishing salt water?

Saltwater is usually quite harsh on reels in general. Choosing a spinning reel designed for saltwater will protect the body, gear, and internal parts in a better way. Of course, you can use a regular freshwater reel, but we would recommend washing it carefully after every fishing session.

How to Choose the right gear ratio?

The gear ratio of a reel basically means how many turns the rotor will have against the handle. A gear ratio 6:1:1 means the rotor will turn 6 times per turn of the handle.

If you are fishing lures that need to be fished faster, then a higher gear ratio is your choice. For example, fast twitching jerk baits, blades, or even topwater baits that need a faster more accurate control speed, this gear ratio is excellent.

A low gear ratio can be effectively used on lures that you want to present slower. Predator fishing for muskie, pike etc. with glide baits, tail baits or bigger swimbaits with a slow presentation. Then you should go for the lower gear ratio.

Summary

When you are looking into buying your first spinning reel for general use… A 2500 sized spinning reel will be all-around. It will make long casts, have enough line capacity for most of your common fishing methods. Choose a gear ratio between 5:1:1 to 6:1:1 .

A reel frame with graphite is lightweight while an aluminum frame is very durable.

Quality drag systems will prevent breakoffs while fighting a fish. 

Spinning reels with aluminum handles are durable and rigid. And don’t forget to choose a saltwater protected reel if you are fishing a lot of saltwater. 

If you are looking for info and tips regarding choosing the right rod for your reel you find our rod selection guide HERE >>

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