The Big Three Bass Fishing Reels

Bass fishing success depends on a number of factors including knowing your location, being able to read the conditions and most importantly, equipment. While an angler's rod is obviously a vital component in his/her overall success, emphasis should also be put on what type of bass fishing reel is being used.

The levels of reels can basically be confined to three levels: spincast, spinning and baitcast. These would be considered the big three so let's have a closer look at their handling and functionality.

The Spincast Reel

Beginners should consider using a spincast reel. Why? Simply put, it's the easiest to use. The spincast is a closed face reel which means you can’t see the line on the reel. It's ease of use almost comes down to the push of a button. All you have to do is push a button, cast and reel. It doesn’t get any easier than that. A big advantage to using a spincast reel as a bass fishing reel is that it’s practically tangle free but if you do get a tangle you won’t know it until it’s too late.

The Spinning Reel

The spinning reel also makes a good bass fishing reel. It's probably the first choice among everyday anglers. Although it's very easy to use there is a little more to know about this type of reel. Basically, in order to cast, just pull back what is known as the bail, then hold the line with your finger, cast and release the line at the right time.

The spinning reel's flexibility is a big advantage with anglers able to switch spools from heavier to lighter line when needed. The spinning reel will require some practice but once mastered it makes an excellent bass fishing reel.

The Baitcast Reel

While some consider it difficult to control, the baitcast reel is a strong option for the experienced angler. One of the biggest differences between this and the spinning reel is the way the line is released off the spool. With a baitcast reel you must also release a bail but when you cast, the line spins off the spool like a spool of thread.

The difficulty with the baitcast reel is the lack of control with how quickly the line comes off the reel. If the line comes off too fast, then expect to have back lash and that leads to a tangle commonly known in fishing circles as "the bird's nest." Apart from the embarassment experienced it's also pure frustration because the only way to get rid of it is to cut it out. This means lost fishing time. Despite this drawback, the baitcast reel is the most popular bass fishing reel among the pro angler. However, it does take some getting used to.

There are other reels on the market but in a nutshell, the bass fishing reel big three could be confined to the above three.