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10 Best Closed Face Fishing Reel
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Buying Guide for the Best Closed Face Fishing Reel
When choosing a closed-face fishing reel, also known as a spincast reel, your goal is to find something that matches your experience level, fishing environment, and the type of fish you’re aiming to catch. Closed-face reels are known for their simplicity and ease of use, making them popular among beginners and casual anglers. Before making your choice, think about how often you’ll fish, where you’ll fish (lakes, rivers, ponds), and the species you’ll be targeting. Understanding the main specifications of these reels will help you pick the right tool that will make your fishing trips more enjoyable and successful.Reel SizeReel size refers to the overall capacity and physical size of the reel. Larger reels hold more line, which is more suitable for catching bigger fish in large bodies of water. Smaller reels are lighter and easier to handle, perfect for younger anglers or those targeting small fish in calm, shallow waters. To decide, consider the size of fish you’ll be targeting—smaller sizes for panfish or trout, and medium sizes for bass or catfish.
Gear RatioThe gear ratio indicates how many times the line spool rotates with each handle turn, essentially telling you how fast you can retrieve the line. Lower gear ratios (like 3:1 or 4:1) mean slower retrieval, which is good for fighting bigger, stronger fish or using lures that need a slow presentation. Higher gear ratios (like 5:1 and up) retrieve line faster, which helps when fishing with lures that need quick action or when you simply want to reel in your line quickly. Beginners and those fishing for a variety of species often do well with a moderate gear ratio, around 4:1 to 5:1.
Line CapacityLine capacity tells you how much fishing line the reel can hold, usually measured in yards for a particular line weight. More line capacity is needed for fishing larger waters where fish might swim a long distance after being hooked, or when targeting bigger fish. For small ponds or casual fishing, a reel with lower line capacity is usually fine. Match the line capacity to your typical fishing scenario and the type or size of fish you expect to catch.
Drag SystemThe drag system controls how much resistance a fish feels when it pulls on your line, allowing you to tire out the fish without breaking the line. A smooth, adjustable drag system is important for fighting fish efficiently and preventing line breakage. Light drag settings are best for smaller fish and fine lines, while higher drags help you handle larger and stronger fish. Think about the size and strength of the species you’ll target and look for a reel with a drag that matches those needs.
Handle Location (Left/Right)Some spincast reels allow you to choose whether the handle is on the left or right side. This is a matter of personal comfort—pick the side that feels most natural for you. Right-handed anglers often prefer the handle on the right, while left-handed anglers go for the left, but this can vary. Try holding a few reels if possible to see which position feels better when cranking.
Build Material and DurabilityReel bodies can be made from materials like plastic, aluminum, or graphite. Plastic is light and affordable but might wear out quickly if used often. Aluminum and graphite are more durable, handling repeated use better and offering greater resistance to rust and corrosion. If you’ll be using your reel frequently, or in tougher conditions (like saltwater or dirty environments), look for reels with more durable materials to ensure longevity.