Spincasting Vs. Baitcasting

Two of the main types of fishing reels are bait-casting and spin-casting reels. While any fishing enthusiast can use them, bait-casting equipment is typically used by experienced fishing enthusiasts, and spin-casting equipment is often favored by novice and beginning anglers. The primarily reason is because spin-casting reels are easier to learn to use than bait-casting reels.

  1. Casting

    • The casting mechanism on bait-casting and spin-casting reels is different. Bait-casting reels have a thumb bar that, in most cases, spans the length of the spool. When an angler casts a bait-casting reel, he must press down the thumb bar and then place his thumb on the spool to prevent it from spinning. He lifts his thumb off the spool when casting, and places it back on the spool as the lure hits the water. On spin-cast reels, the casting mechanism is a button that must be held down. Casting the reels involves pressing down the button and releasing it during the cast.

    Drag System

    • On bait casting reels, a star-shaped piece on the handle of the reel controls the drag. The drag system on spin casting reels is controlled by a disk – half of which is beneath the surface of the reel – located near the casting button. For both reels, turning the drag control clockwise tightens the drag, while turning it counterclockwise loosens it. In both instances, the drag should be set such that a firm, steady pull causes the drag to release line.

    Backlash

    • Backlash is the bane of those who use bait-casting reels. It occurs when line no longer travels off the spool, but the spool continues to spin. The result of backlash is fishing line that looks like a bird's nest and may include knots. Anglers can avoid backlash by not casting directly into the wind, and by keeping their thumb near the spool at all times. Backlash does not occur on spin-casting reels.

    Spool Size

    • Bait-casting reels are designed to cast fishing baits long distances. Most can hold 150 yards of line or more. Spin-casting reels, in contrast, hold less line. The spools of these reels are fully enclosed within the body of the reel, so they are smaller than are baitcasting reel spools. Most spin-casting reels hold a maximum of 75 yards of lines or less.