Fishing Reel Types, and What Line to Use

Rods and Reels

Fishing Line Type

Spincast Reel :

You've most likely seen these sold in the "kids section" of a store. They will be made out of plastic and have Disney characters or superheroes on them.

Pros: Cheap, Easy to use

Cons: Easily breaks, Limited functionality, does not perform well.

My suggestion: Never buy one as an adult beginner fisherperson.

Seeking more details? These reels come with inexpensive lines prone to tangling and snapping when landing larger fish. The drag system wears out quickly due to low-quality materials, and the rods are often too short for effective casting. However, if you're in a situation where you just want a simple, low-cost option for casual fishing on a lake without much investment in time or energy, this rod could be suitable. Pair it with hooks, worms, and a bobber for a straightforward fishing experience.

Spin Reel :

This is the most common fishing reel type, and very likely what you think of when someone says "fishing reel"

Pros: Performance, Adjustability, Ease of use, Price, Easy to untangle

Cons: Practice is necessary, Wide range of quality

My suggestion: Spin reels are often sold as a "rod and reel combo". Ask the sales clerk which rod and reel combo is best for the fishing you want to do. If you want a "Do it all - Master of none" type setup, I suggest Ugly Stick brand 6-foot 6-inch rod. I use this type of reel for everything from trout fishing to yellowfin tuna.

Baitcasting Reel

Bait casters are sleek, and weigh less than Spin reels. They often cost more money, but allow for advanced control of your cast and retrieval.

Pros: Better casting control, Lightweight, Versatility for jigging or lure retrieval.

Cons: Easily tangled, Expensive, Advanced fishing knowledge for use.

My suggestion: These are great reels for people who have been fishing for a while. They are hard to learn to use well, but once you understand bait casters they will do everything you need them to.

Monofilament

Monofilament is most likely what your grandparents grew up using. It's cheap, works in most situations, and is readily available.

Pros: Cheap, Neutrally buoyant, Clear,

Cons: Line memory, Line Stretch

My suggestion: This is a great starter line (and most rod and reel combos come with this line already on the spool). When you cast Monofiliment you may find it tagles up on itself due to "memory". Line memory is the tendency for the line to want to return to the shape that it was on the spool.

Braided Line

Braided fishing line, a modern alternative to monofilament, offers distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Pros: Durable, High strength, Minimal stretch

Cons: Visibility, Expensive

My suggestion: Braided line is excellent for heavy cover and situations where strength is crucial. It is also great for casting lures a far distance and fitting more line on your spool. However, its high visibility might affect fish response, and the cost is higher compared to monofilament.

Fluorocarbon

Fluorocarbon fishing line stands out as a versatile option in the angler's toolkit.

Pros: Near-invisibility underwater, Abrasion-resistant, Low stretch

Cons: Costly, Stiffer than monofilament

My suggestion: Fluorocarbon is an excellent choice for situations where visibility matters, such as clear water. Its low stretch enhances sensitivity, but the stiffness can affect casting. Consider it for scenarios where its unique properties provide an advantage, despite the higher cost.