Reels

A spinning reel is easy to use and versatile, making it suitable for many different types of fishing. A baitcasting reel provides excellent feel and control and is particularly popular for casting larger and heavier lures.

A spinning reel is usually a good choice as a first reel because it is easy to use and learning to cast with it is straightforward. For children or anyone looking for the easiest possible option, a spincast reel can be a good choice.

The right reel depends on your fishing method, the rod you use and the size of your lures. A spinning reel is a versatile choice for casting, a baitcasting reel is well suited for precise fishing and heavier lures, while a trolling reel is designed for trolling.

The size of your spinning reel should be chosen based on your fishing method, lure size and the rod you use. Reel sizes vary slightly between manufacturers, but as a general guide:

• Under 1000: for ultralight fishing and small lures
• 2000–2500: for perch, zander, jig fishing and light all-round fishing
• 3000–4000: for zander, pike and versatile casting
• 5000 and larger: for heavy-duty fishing, carp fishing and situations where greater line capacity and drag power are needed

Please note that unlike spinning reels, the handle side of a baitcasting reel cannot be changed afterwards. The reel is specified as either left-hand or right-hand retrieve, indicating which side of the reel the handle is on.

General guide:

• R / RH / Right = Right Hand = handle on the right side
• L / LH / Left = Left Hand = handle on the left side

Daiwa

• L at the end of the model number = Left Hand = handle on the left side

Shimano

• L at the end of the model number = Left Hand = handle on the left side
• Model code ending in 0 = Right Hand = handle on the right side
• Model code ending in 1 = Left Hand = handle on the left side

Abu Garcia

• Model number ending in 0 = Right Hand = handle on the right side
• Model number ending in 1 = Left Hand = handle on the left side
• 7000 = RH / Right = handle on the right side
• 7001 = LH / Left = handle on the left side

For pike fishing, a heavy-duty spinning reel or baitcasting reel is a good choice, depending on the size of the lures you use. For large pike lures, a baitcasting reel is a popular option thanks to its strength and excellent control.

For perch fishing, a light spinning reel or baitcasting reel that works well with small lures and jigs is usually a good choice. For zander fishing, you can choose a slightly heavier reel depending on the fishing method and the size of the lures you use.

Yes. It is a good idea to keep the reel clean and dry and maintain it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular maintenance helps the reel run smoothly and extends its lifespan.