Sea fishing is an increasingly popular activity in the UK, with keen anglers taking to the coastlines to catch a large variety of fish species. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any sea angler is the fishing reel, which is responsible for controlling the line and providing the necessary power to reel in the catch. In this article, we will explore the different types of reels available in the UK and what you should consider when choosing one.
Multiplier Reels
Multiplier reels, also known as baitcasting reels, are a type of fishing reel that are commonly used by experienced anglers in the UK for catching large fish species. They are designed to provide a high level of control over the line and are capable of casting long distances.
Unlike spinning reels where the spool rotates around a stationary spool axle, in a multiplier reel, the spool rotates when the handle is turned, and the line is guided onto the spool by a level wind system. The level wind system moves the line back and forth across the spool to ensure that the line is evenly distributed when being reeled in, preventing tangles and snarls.
They are often used for fishing in deep water or strong currents where casting long distances is necessary. They are also suitable for catching larger fish species such as sharks, rays, and tuna. The ability to control the line and provide high levels of drag makes them ideal for landing these species without breaking the line.
Using a multiplier reel requires a higher level of skill than a spinning reel, and beginners may find them difficult to master. This is because, with a multiplier reel, the angler needs to control the line with their thumb to prevent backlash, which is when the spool spins faster than the line is going out and results in a tangle of line on the spool.
They are available in a range of sizes, with larger models capable of holding thicker lines and heavier weights. Some models also have a built-in line counter that allows the angler to keep track of the depth and distance the lure or bait is being cast.
Multiplier reels are a popular choice for experienced anglers in the UK who are targeting larger fish species or fishing in deep water or strong currents. While they require a higher level of skill to use than spinning reels, they provide a high level of control over the line and can cast long distances, making them an essential tool in any angler’s arsenal.
Check out our reviews of the best 10 multiplier reels available.
Fixed Spool Reels
Fixed spool reels, also known as overhead or conventional reels, are a type of fishing reel that is commonly used in sea fishing. These reels are designed for use in deeper waters and stronger currents and are suitable for catching larger fish species such as cod, bass, and halibut.
The fixed spool reel is named for its fixed spool, which is located on top of the reel and rotates as the handle is turned. The line is guided onto the spool using a bail arm, which is a curved metal wire that pivots around the spool. The spool is also equipped with a level wind system, which distributes the line evenly across the spool as it is being reeled in.
One of their advantages is that they are powerful and capable of reeling in larger fish. They also have a greater line capacity than spinning reels, which is necessary for fishing in deeper waters where longer lines are needed to reach the fish.
They are typically made of materials such as aluminium, stainless steel, and graphite, which makes them durable and corrosion-resistant. They also have a smooth drag system, which is important for controlling the resistance on the line when reeling in a fish.
There are two types of fixed spool reels: star drag and lever drag. Star drag reels are operated by turning a knob located on the side of the reel, which adjusts the drag. Lever drag reels, on the other hand, have a lever located on the top of the reel that is used to adjust the drag. Lever drag reels are generally considered to be more precise than star drag reels, but they can also be more expensive.
Fixed spool reels are a popular choice for sea anglers who are looking to catch larger fish species and fish in deeper waters. They are powerful, durable, and have a smooth drag system, making them an essential piece of equipment for any sea angler.
Spinning Reels
Spinning reels, also known as fixed spool reels, are one of the most popular types used by sea anglers in the UK. Spinning reels are characterised by their stationary spool axle and a spool that rotates around it. The line is guided onto the spool using a bail arm, which is a metal bar that swings back and forth as the line is reeled in or cast out.
One of their key is that they are easy to use and suitable for a range of fishing styles, from shore to boat fishing. They are also relatively affordable, making them a great choice for beginners who are just starting out in sea angling.
They come in a range of sizes, and the size of the reel you choose will depend on the size of the fish you are targeting and the type of fishing you plan to do. Smaller reels are suitable for catching small to medium-sized fish, while larger versions are suitable for larger fish species or for angling in deeper waters where longer lines are required.
They have a simple drag system, which consists of a series of washers that provide the necessary resistance when the fish is pulling on the line. The drag system is crucial for landing large fish species and preventing the line from breaking. Some of them have a front drag system, while others have a rear drag system.
When choosing a spinning reel, there are several factors to consider. The gear ratio, which refers to the number of times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle, will determine how quickly you can reel in your catch. A higher gear ratio means you can retrieve the line faster, while a lower gear ratio provides more power for reeling in larger fish.
The line capacity is another important consideration when choosing a spinning reel. The line capacity refers to the amount of line the reel can hold, and it is important to choose a reel with a line capacity that matches the type of fishing you plan to do. If you are fishing in deeper waters or targeting larger fish species, you will need a reel with a larger line capacity.
Spinning reels are a versatile and easy-to-use type of reel that is suitable for a wide range of fishing styles and fish species. They are affordable and offer good value for money, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Check out our reviews of the best 10 spinning reels available.
Drag System
The drag system in a fishing reel is a mechanism that provides resistance to the line when a fish is pulling on it. It is an essential feature of any reel as it plays a critical role in landing large fish and preventing the line from breaking. The drag system is essentially a set of washers that sit between the spool and the body of the reel. When a fish pulls on the line, the washers compress against each other, creating friction and resistance, which helps to tire out the fish and prevent the line from breaking.
The drag system is typically adjustable, allowing anglers to set the amount of resistance on the line. This is important as different fish species require different levels of resistance. For example, a small fish may only require a light drag setting, while a larger, more powerful fish will require a stronger drag to prevent it from snapping the line. The drag system can be adjusted by turning a knob or lever on the reel, which changes the pressure on the washers and therefore the amount of resistance on the line.
There are two types of drag systems commonly used in reels: front drag and rear drag. Front drag systems are located at the front of the reel and provide a more consistent level of drag throughout the fight with the fish. They are typically more durable and can handle more weight than rear drag systems. Rear drag systems, on the other hand, are located at the back of the reel and are generally easier to adjust while fighting a fish. They are also lighter and more compact than front drag systems, making them a popular choice for smaller spinning reels.
In summary, the drag system is a crucial feature of any reel, and it is essential to choose a reel with a good quality and adjustable drag system to suit your fishing needs. A well-maintained and properly adjusted drag system can help to land more fish and prevent the line from breaking, ensuring that you have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.
Line Capacity
Line capacity refers to the amount of line that a reel can hold. It is an essential factor to consider when choosing a reel because it determines how much line you can put on the reel, which is crucial when you are targeting bigger fish species or fishing in deeper waters.
The line capacity of a reel is usually measured in yards or meters and is indicated by the manufacturer. For example, a reel may have a line capacity of 300 yards of 20-pound test line. This means that the reel can hold up to 300 yards of line that is rated for a maximum of 20 pounds.
The line capacity of a reel depends on its size and the type of fishing it is designed for. Smaller spinning reels have a smaller line capacity and are suitable for catching smaller fish species, while larger reels, such as overhead reels, have a larger line capacity and are suitable for deep sea fishing and catching bigger fish.
When selecting a reel, it’s important to choose one with an appropriate line capacity for the type of angling you will be doing. For example, if you are fishing in shallow waters or targeting smaller fish species, a reel with a smaller line capacity would suffice. However, if you are angling in deep waters or targeting larger fish species, you will need a reel with a larger line capacity to ensure that you have enough line to reach the fish and to handle the fight when reeling them in.
It’s also worth noting that the line capacity of a reel can vary depending on the thickness and type of line used. Thicker lines will take up more space on the spool and will reduce the amount of line that can be held, while thinner lines will allow for more line capacity.
Line capacity is an essential factor to consider when choosing a reel for sea fishing. It determines how much line you can put on the reel, which is important for catching bigger fish species or fishing in deeper waters. It’s important to choose a reel with an appropriate line capacity for the type of angling you will be doing to ensure that you have enough line to reach the fish and to handle the fight when reeling them in.
Fishing reels are an essential piece of equipment for any sea angler, and choosing the right reel will depend on your angling style and the species of fish you are targeting. Spinning reels are the most commonly used type of reel in the UK, while multipliers are used by experienced anglers for catching larger fish species. Fixed spools are suitable for boat fishing and can be used to catch larger fish species. The drag system and line capacity are also important factors to consider when choosing a reel.