Are you new to fishing? Are you wondering where to start? Well, the first thing you should do is purchase a spincast tackle. Spincast reels are simple to learn, user-friendly, and of course, very affordable. They may not look as glamorous as baitcasting reels, but they get the job done.
If you are searching for the best spincast reels for the money, you are in the right place. I have reviewed six of the best spincasters for 2020. Also, I will provide a beginner buyer’s guide to spincast tackles to help you make an informed decision.
But first, here is a summary of the six best spincast reels for the money.
| Image | Product | Features | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Spincast for Catfish  |
| 9.9 | Check On Amazon |
Best Spincast for Saltwater  |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best for Bass and Trout  |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best Spincast For All Time |
| 9.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best Spincast Uder $100  |
| 9.7 | Check On Amazon |
Best Spincast Reel Under $50  | Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel
| 9.7 | Check Current Price |
The Six Best Spincast Reels Reviews.
1. Zebco Omega Pro- Best Spincast for Catfish
- Gear Ratio : 3.4:1
- Ball Bearing : 6+1
- Weight : 1 Pounds
- Hand Orientation : Ambidextrous
- Line Capacity : Mono 85/10
Many anglers associate spincast tackles with children and smaller fish, and they are right to do so. However, there are some fine spincasts that you can use to catch larger catches like catfish. One of the finest spincast for catfishing is Zebco Omega Pro. It is easy to use, adventurous, and strong enough to effortlessly haul catfish out of the water.
Zebco has invested in design and quality, making a product that impresses both novice and experienced anglers. Of course, it has its shortcomings, but it is worth every dollar.
Features
To help you make an informed decision about the reel, here are the features that come with it:
Durable Construction
The construction of a reel determines its durability and weight. The Zebco Omega Pro comes with solid aluminum construction, making it strong and lightweight.
Aluminum is also durable, so you can expect your spincast to last for a few years. Furthermore, its ceramic line guides have a protective rubber seal, which makes your reel’s performance even smoother.
Easy Installation
Just like other spincasts, the Zebco Omega Pro is user-friendly and easy to install. Its design is advantageous for beginners, and you will use little effort to get it working. It is also comfortable, so you can use it all day and enjoy your fishing experience instead of feeling too tired.
Seven Ball Bearings
Zebco Omega Pro comes with six ball bearings and one roller bearing, so you can expect smooth performance from it. The ball bearings are made of stainless steel, combining smoothness and durability. Typically, a reel with four bearings is smooth enough. Therefore, a spincast with seven quality bearings is an excellent option for all anglers.
Versatile Design
The fact that you can use the spincast with both your hands makes it quite versatile. Adding that the reel comes with triple-cam multi-disk drag, you can be sure of even better performance. The aluminum frame completes the ergonomic design that any angler will like.
One Year Warranty
The spincast comes with a year warranty, meaning you will not need to pay anything for repair should it develop a manufacturer’s problem within a year after purchase. You will just return it to the manufacturer, and they will repair or replace it.
Pros
- Smooth performance
- Durable construction
- Rubber guards that prevent rusting
- Sleek and versatile design
- Affordable spincast for all
Cons
- Lower gear ratio that makes its retrieval speed lower
- Sensitive drag adjustment knob that increases the chances of losing a big fish.
Verdict
If you are a beginner, I highly recommend purchasing the Zebco Omega Pro spincasting reel. It provides smooth performance, and it is easy to use for people of all skill levels. It is also affordable, and it will serve you for several years. Yes, its retrieval speed may be slow, but it is still enough.
2. Zebco 33 – Best Spincast for Saltwater Fishing
- Gear Ratio : 4.1:1
- Ball Bearing : 2 + Clutch
- Weight : 0.65 Pounds
- Hand Orientation : Ambidextrous
- Line Capacity : Mono 120/10
Zebco has been in the market for more than six decades. In that time, they have provided us with some fine fishing products, both reels, and rods. Like always, they don’t disappoint with the Zebco 33 spincasting reel.
The reel comes with a faster retrieval speed than most, and it has a metal body, so you can expect it to last for quite some time. It has a smaller spool that allows smoother casting, and when paired with the right rod, you can use it in saltwater without worrying that you will compromise its performance.
Features
The features of a reel are the only thing that can help you conclude if a tackle is worth it. Here are the features that come with the Zebco 33 spincast tackle:
4.1:1 Gear Ratio
Typically, most spincasts have a gear ratio of 2.5:1 to 3.4:1. Zebco 33 reel comes with a 4.1:1 gear ratio, so you can expect faster retrievals from it. It is also not too fast to affect its torque, so you can still use the reel to catch medium-sized fish, hassle-free. Such an average retrieval speed also helps prevent fidgeting, meaning there will be minimal noise while fishing.
Graphite Body
Typically, the best materials for body construction are graphite and aluminum. Graphite is lightweight, classy, and long-lasting. It is also a better corrosion resister than aluminum, making it the perfect material for a saltwater fishing reel. That does not mean you cannot use it in freshwater, though. You can use your Zebco 33 anywhere you want because it is that versatile.
Changeable Left or Right-hand Retrieve
With Zebco 33, you don’t need to worry about purchasing a reel for your dominant hand. It is designed in such a way that you can cast and retrieve it with both hands, making it easy for beginners to learn how to cast and enjoy it. Its handles are pretty comfortable, so you can hold it all day without developing sores or feeling too tired.
One Year Warranty
Like most Zebco products, the Zebco 33 spincast reel comes with a one year warranty. Therefore, don’t be afraid to return it if it develops a manufacturer’s problem within the warranted period. Zebco would repair or replace the reel if you didn’t cause the problem yourself.
Bite Alert
The bite alert makes a sound whenever a fish takes the bait. It’s not too noisy to scare the fish, though. It is just enough to alert you that you need to retrieve. However, you can turn the bite alert off if you think the rod sensitivity is enough.
Pros
- All-metal gear that ensures your reel lasts as long as possible.
- A versatile spincast that can be used in fresh and saltwater.
- Beautiful design and colors make Zebco 33 a beautiful gift for anyone who fancies fishing.
Cons
- The anti-reverse is sometimes at fault.
- The take-up pins are not as durable as they should be
Verdict
Zebco 33 spincast reel is an affordable beginner reel. It is easy to use, provides solid performance, and you can even use it in saltwater. Furthermore, it is made of all metal, so you can expect it to last for quite some time. I recommend it to all newbies, especially those who often fish in saltwater bodies.
Also Read : Is Zebco 33 better than 404?
3. KastKing Brutus – Best Spincast Reel for Bass Fishing
- Max Drag : 11lbs
- Gear Ratio : 4.0:1
- Ball Bearing : 5
- Weight : 9.88 Ounces
- Hand Orientation : Both hands
Bass are among the most common fish in the US, and many anglers prefer them since they are not too large or too small. However, they are quite smart, and you need to invest in quality gear for the best experience. Well, the KastKing Brutus is an excellent choice if you plan to catch some bass.
KastKing has been providing us with some great fishing products, and they don’t disappoint with this spincast tackle. It has received a lot of love from its users, and I’m convinced you will love it too.
Features
The KastKing Brutus spincast comes with some fine features that most spincasts within its price range don’t have. They include:
5 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
Ball bearings in a reel reduce friction in moving parts, which makes it easy to cast and retrieve. Typically, stainless steel ball bearings are considered the best when it comes to durability. They also offer smooth performance like ceramic ball bearings, and they are corrosion-resistant. Plus, the more the bearings, the better the performance of the reel. Therefore, you can expect smooth performance from a spincast with five quality ball bearings.
4.0:1 Gear Ratio
Typically, spincast reels have a gear ratio of 3.5:1 and below. Therefore, finding one with 4.0 and above means, you are in for a treat. It will provide you with faster retrievals and still have enough torque to comfortably haul out fish from the water. It has an 11 lbs. drag, so you can use it to land fish weighing up to 11 pounds.
Reversible Handle
The Brutus spincasters come with a reversible handle that you can use with both hands. You can change the handle from the left to the right side by simply taking out the handle retainer cap and adjusting the handle to the opposite direction. The rubber handles are quite comfortable, and they provide a tight grip.
Graphite Body Construction
As we already established, graphite is one of the best materials for reel bodies. It is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, strong, and durable.
Pre-Spooled Line
The reel comes with a pre-spooled line, and its spool takes at least 33% more line than most press and releases spincasters. This means you can use the spincast in deep waters and find fish in their hiding places.
Pros
- A beginner-friendly spincast
- a large spool that takes enough line for deep fishing
- A long-lasting spincast with a graphite construction.
- More affordable than most
- Low noise while fishing
Cons
- Not the best choice for saltwater fishing.
Verdict
If you are looking for a cheap spincast reel that will get the job done, you should consider purchasing KastKing Brutus. It is quite affordable, beginner-friendly, and durable. You can use it with both hands, and it has five stainless steel ball bearings for smooth performance. You won’t go wrong with it.
4. Zebco/Quantum 33KA – Best Spincast for All Time
- Max Drag : 4lb
- Gear Ratio : 3.6:1
- Weight : 0.45 pounds
- Hand Orientation : Left / Right
- Line Test : 10lb
If you are looking for a spincast reel that you can use in all waters and at any time, you should consider purchasing the Zebco/Quantum 33KA spincasting tackle. It is one of the cheapest spincasters you can find, and it gets the job done. It is also lightweight, so much that it can be used by five years old. Like other Zebco spincast reels, it is ambidextrous, so you can use it with both hands.
Features
Here are the unique features that come with the Zebco/Quantum 33KA spincast.
Synthetic Material
The synthetic material may not be as durable as aluminum and graphite, but it has its strengths. First, synthetic material is much more lightweight than both graphite and aluminum. Second, a reel with a synthetic construction will not be affected by corrosion. Third, synthetic material is much more affordable than graphite and aluminum. Therefore, you can expect to use 30 dollars to get a synthetic made spincast.
Reversible Handle
The Zebco 33 KA spincast comes with a comfortable and reversible handle. This means you can practice using both hands and stick to the one that feels most comfortable. Just because your dominant hand is right; it does not mean you cannot try the left hand and find it easy to use. The handles are rubberized for added comfort. You can fish all day and not feel too tired.
Easy To Use
The Zebco 33 KA spincast is easy to assemble, so you don’t need to take a lot of time practicing. It also rarely malfunctions. For an experienced angler, that might not seem like a plus, but it gives you comfort as a beginner. You can cast the line and relax as you catch fish for the first time.
Pros
- One of the cheapest spincast tackles
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Suitable for people of all ages and skill levels
- Comfortable and reversible handles
Cons
- Not durable
- It is not designed for larger fish
- Not ideal for braided line
Verdict
The fact that the Zebco 33 KA has many plastic parts makes some people think it is not worth it. That’s not the case, though. The reel is easy to use, cheap, lightweight, and the perfect choice for beginners. You can use it at any time and in all waters since plastic cannot be affected by saltwater. I recommend it to all novice anglers. You won’t regret learning how to fish with such an easy-to-use reel.
5. Pflueger President Sizeunder – Best Spincast Reel Under $100
- Gear Ratio : 3.4: 1 to 3.8:1
- Ball Bearing : 5
- Weight : 10.88 Ounces
- Hand Orientation : Ambidextrous
- Inches-Per-Turn : 14.5" to 18.5"
Pflueger is an established brand in the fishing industry, so you can expect nothing but the best from them. They have provided us with some fine fishing reels and rods, and they don’t disappoint with this spincast. It is relatively affordable and easy to use. Furthermore, it is made of aluminum. You can be sure it will serve you longer than most spincasts.
Features
Like you would expect, the Pflueger President Sizeunder Spin Reel comes with some fantastic features. These features include:
5-Bearing System
Typically, the higher the number of ball bearings, the better the performance of the reel is likely to be. The bearings reduce friction in movable parts, making them easy to cast and retrieve. The Pflueger President Sizeunder comes with four stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing.
I know this may not seem like much, especially for someone who has used a spinning or baitcasting reel, but it is more than enough in a spincaster.
Aluminum Construction
Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and strong. A reel made of aluminum is also corrosion-resistant, so you can use it in saltwater. The Pflueger President Sizeunder Spincast reel has an aluminum body, so you can expect it to perform exceptionally and serve you for a long time.
Instant Anti-Reverse Function
Pflueger President gives you more flexibility with the anti-reverse function. The function allows you to avoid line twists since you cannot accidentally turn the handle in the opposite direction, releasing the line instead of reeling it in. Furthermore, there is a drag adjustment knob on the spool, making it even more flexible.
Titanium Pins
The Plueger President model comes with dual titanium take-up pins that pick the line with ease while retrieving. The pins also protect the line from excessive friction, so you can expect the fishing line to for a long time. Most spincasts have one pin. Therefore, having dual titanium take-up pins is a huge plus.
Pros
- Affordable and high-quality spincasting reel
- Flexible spincasting tackle for people of all skill levels
- A durable spincasting reel
- Provides smooth performances
Cons
- Limited capabilities. You should only use the reel for small to medium-sized species. Its casting distance is also limited, compared to spinning and baitcasting tackles.
Verdict
The pros of Pflueger President supersede the downsides. It will serve you for a long time and provide you with smooth performances. It might have limited capabilities, but it is better than most spincasts in the market.
6. Pflueger Trion – Best Spincast Reel Under $50
Fishing reels range from as low as 19 dollars to as high as 650 dollars. Many people often think that the most expensive reel is the best and the cheapest is the worst. However, that’s not always the case. You can still find quality reels for less than 50 dollars, a reel that you will use for years.
One of the finest examples for the same is Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel. It is quite affordable, but it has everything you need to make your fishing experience comfortable.
Features
To figure if the spincast is worth the price, see these features that come with it.
Aluminum Construction
Despite its low price, the Pflueger comes with aluminum construction, making it durable and lightweight. The construction also gives the tackle a classy look.
Spool Applied Drag
The drag adjustment knob is on the spool, which makes the reel flexible when handing hard-fighting fish. Its drag force may not be strong enough to land larger catches, but it is enough for small to medium-sized fish.
Dual Titanium Pins
Typically, the higher the number of take-up pins, the better the performance of a spincast while retrieving. The Pflueger Trion has dual titanium take-up pins, so you can expect better performance from it.
Specs
- Weight: 0.29 kg (package weight)
- Brand name: Pflueger
- Suggested Users: Unisex, adults
- Size: Six
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- A cheap spincasting tackle that is worth the price.
- Excellent for kids
Cons
- It has only two ball bearings, although they are of high-quality.
- It is too small and might not be enough for some adults.
Verdict
If you plan to buy your child a fishing reel, you should consider purchasing Pflueger Trion spincast reel. It is small enough for kids, and it provides smooth performance, despite having only two ball bearings. It is also one of the most affordable spincast reels.
What is a Spincast Reel?
A spincast reel is an enclosed fishing tackle mostly used by beginners but can still be used by experienced anglers. Typically, the drag adjustment knob is on the side of the tackle and sometimes next to the handle. This drag adjustment mechanism makes it easy to adjust resistance when a fish takes the bait.
However, it is worth noting that spincasters are faced with line twists problems like spinning reels. But the good thing is they rarely malfunction.
How Does a Spincast Reel Work?
Typically, the spool of a spincast tackle does not move while casting. This means that it eliminates the risk of backlashes and Birdnesting, which are common with baitcasters. When you cast, the lure pulls the fishing line off the spool through a hole, often in the front of the tackle. Once the lure hits the target, the spool stops releasing more line, which means there is zero possibility of backlashes.
Naturally, there is a thumb button the angler can use, but some tackles have a trigger underneath the reel. When you press the button, the line take-up pins inside the spool retracts, allowing the line to move freely. When you turn the handle, the take-up pins pop up from the retracted position, repositioning them to allow easy retrieval.
The take-up pins are an important part of a spincast tackle, and the more the pins, the faster the retrieval is likely to be. A spincast tackle with a single pin will take longer to retrieve because the pin has to turn to complete a revolution before it starts winding the fishing line into the spool.
It is crucial to maintain good tension on the line while reeling. That way, the line will evenly lie in the spool, allowing consistent line feeding and reducing line twists’ risks. To maintain tension, pinch the line between your forefinger and thumb in front of the reel. Then, crank the handle while doing it.
Why Choose Spincast Reels – Advantages
Spincast reels are not as popular as they used to be, but that does not mean they are not worth it. They come with many benefits and here are some reasons you should purchase one:
Affordable
Spincast tackles are by far the most affordable fishing reels. You can find a spincast reel for as low as 20 dollars, and it will get the job done, catching bass, trout, and panfish without struggles. Therefore, even if you are not impressed (which is highly unlikely), you won’t lose a lot.
No Backlashes
A backlash is a problem that occurs when you cast a baitcaster and fail to use the brakes at the right time. This makes the lure slow down, and the spool continues releasing line, leading to a mess of line, referred to as bird nest. With a spincast, you don’t need to worry about that. The only problem is line twists, and they are preventable when you do the right things.
No Learning Curve
One of the main reasons why spincast tackles are recommended for beginners is because they are the easiest to use. You won’t need to take days in your backyard practicing how to cast because it is pretty straightforward. In fact, spincast reels are the best option for children. Therefore, if you are looking to purchase your kid a fishing reel this Christmas, consider getting a spincast tackle.
Lightweight
Spincast reels are often lightweight, meaning you will always notice even the slightest bites. You will also not feel too tired, even if you spend the whole day fishing. However, they may not be as durable as spinning and baitcasting reels. Still, they are worth every dollar since they are often very cheap.
It is worth noting that even though spincast tackles have many advantages, they are not perfect. Their drag is slightly inferior and should not be used for hard fishing. Therefore, I recommend using a spincast in the beginning and upgrading to a spinning or baitcasting reel. That way, you will learn the basics with the spincast, and it will be easy to learn how to cast spinning reels.
Key Components (Parts) of Spincast Reels
A spincast tackle is pretty much the same as a spinning reel. They have similar components, and that’s why it is often easy to cast a spinning reel once you learn how to use a spincast. Here are the key components of spincasting tackles.
Reel Handle
The reel handle should be made of a comfortable and lightweight material since you will be holding it for the most part while fishing. The handle is crucial while retrieving. Once you turn it, it pops up the take-up pins inside the spool, making it easy to reel in the line back to the spool.
Most spincast handles can be operated with both hands, so you won’t need to purchase a dedicated hand spincast rod, unlike with baitcasters. Typically, you should use your dominant hand to hold the rod and the non-dominant hand to turn the handle.
Lightweight handles are often more responsive than heavy handles. Thankfully, spincast handles are lightweight, so you can be sure that you will feel even the slightest bites. Since spincast tackles are mostly used for smaller fish, that’s a very important advantage. The reel handle should provide a tight grip to make your work easier if you hook a larger fish with the spincast.
Body/Frame
The body/frame is the tackle’s central component that holds the other features together. Typically, the frame is made of a lightweight and strong material. It can be graphite, aluminum, or a blend of the two with composite materials. However, some spincast reels are made of plastic frames.
The reel bodies vary in shape, size, and composition. Some add attractive colors, making spincast reels lovely gifts, especially for kids.
Spool
The spool is simply the store of the fishing line. It is the most important part of a fishing reel. In addition to storing the fishing line, the spool influences your chances of landing or losing a fish. If the spool’s design is poor, the likelihood of losing a fish is very high. Also, if the spool is extremely rigid, it will cause increased friction leading to line breakage.
In most cases, spools are made of the same materials as handles. Some sellers sell spooled reels, but it is important to learn how to do it yourself. That way, you will find it easy to add a new line should the one sold with the reel break.
The spool size also matters. The larger the size, the more line it is likely to store. A reel that takes more lines means that it can be used to cast over long distances and take heavy test weight lines. However, that might not be a crucial feature for spincast tackles since they rarely cast over long distances.
Drag Adjustment Knob
The drag adjustment knob is a common feature in spincast reels, used to adjust the fishing line’s tension. It is often a button on top of the reel that you can use your thumb to adjust the tension.
However, some spincast reels have the adjustment knob underneath the reel. The drag adjustment knob is crucial, especially when fishing hard-fighting fish such as bass that tend to pull the line back into the water.
A reel with an easy to find drag adjustment knob is a better choice for a novice angler. Luckily, most spincasting reels have the adjustment knob near the reel handle, so it shouldn’t be hard to find and use it.
However, you should always set the right drag for the best experience. As a rule of thumb, make sure that the drag is about a quarter of the fishing line’s strength. That way, you will reduce the chances of breaking the line while retrieving due to friction.
Reel Foot
The reel foot is the part of a spincasting tackle that gets attached to the fishing rod. Typically, the two should have a tight connection such that they cannot disconnect while retrieving a fighting fish. The reel foot is often rectangular. It is an extension of the reel body, so it is made of the same material.
For the best experience, purchase the reel and rod at the same time. That way, you will test if the reel foot is a perfect match for the rod’s reel seat. If they are not compatible, your fishing experience will always be frustrating.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Best Spincast Reels
When buying something, you should always look for the best. The easiest way to know which reel is the best for you is to think about how you will use it and in which circumstances. Think about where you will fish and the type of fish you plan to catch. That way, you will always get the value of your money. Before digging into features of the reel, ask yourself these two questions:
What Are Spincast Tackles Used For?
When you know what spincast reels are used for, you will not be disappointed because you know what to expect. Spincast tackles are often used by beginners and children, meaning you can rarely use them for larger catches like King Salmon and catfish.
They lack the drag force of baitcasters and spinning reels, and their line capacity is not that great. It is also not as accurate as baitcasters. For those reasons, you cannot use a spincasting tackle to cast over long distances and highly vegetated areas.
However, they have their positives. You won’t need to waste time learning how to cast or deal with common reel problems such as backlashes and bird nests. They are ideal for smaller fish like trout and walleye, plus they are quite affordable.
Where Can I Use a Spincast Reel?
For the best experience, don’t use your spincasting reel in harsh fishing conditions like rocky and vegetated areas. You should also not use a spincast to cast over long distances. Use it in your boat, dock, or close to the shore. That way, you won’t need to cast over long distances, and the accuracy won’t matter a lot.
That said, here are the features of a spincasting reel you should be on the lookout for while purchasing one.
Material and Durability
Typically, the material of a spincast will determine its durability. If it is made of long-lasting materials such as graphite and aluminum, it will last for a long time. However, if it is made of plastic, it might not last long.
It is worth noting that metal reels often come with extra weight and maintenance requirements. For that reason, if you want to purchase a spincast tackle for your kid, consider purchasing one made of plastic. It will be lightweight, easy to use, and with great colors that a kid will love. If you are buying one for yourself, buy an aluminum one. Aluminum is lightweight and durable.
Size
Since you will probably use the spincast for fishing in freshwater and near the shore, you don’t need a large reel. The smaller the spincast, the better it will likely be. Furthermore, the smaller the reel, the lighter it will likely be. Remember, fishing is an endurance battle, so you will be holding the reel a lot. Therefore, a lighter reel means you won’t get too tired.
Reel Type
There are two major types of spincast tackles. The first and the most common type is the one with the release button located on top of the reel and often triggered with the thumb. The second type has a trigger located underneath the reel and is often pulled to release the line.
Both types are easy to use, but most people prefer the one where the button is located at the top. You might want to consider purchasing one with the release button at the top if you are a beginner.
Ball Bearings
Bearings are small discs usually in the moving parts of a reel. The bearings help reduce friction, improving the performance of the tackle. Therefore, the higher the number of ball bearings, the better the performance of the reel is likely to be.
However, the quality of the bearings also matters. Typically, stainless steel and ceramic ball bearings are considered to be of high-quality. Both materials are corrosion-resistant and durable.
However, ceramic is slightly more fragile and cannot last as long as stainless steel. On the other hand, stainless steel does not offer smooth performances like ceramic.
That said, always ensure that the reel has at least four bearings, whether ceramic or stainless steel. That way, you can always be guaranteed smooth performance. Test the spincast tackle before purchasing if you can.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio determines the speed of a reel. Therefore, the higher the gear ratio, the faster the speed of retrieval is likely to be. However, faster retrievals often mean less torque, but that does not matter a lot with spincasting reels since you will be catching smaller fish.
As a rule of thumb, use a spincast with a high gear ratio for smaller fish and one with a lower gear ratio for medium to larger catches. Most spincast reels have a gear ratio of between 2.5 to 5.0:1.
Take-Up Pins
Take-up pins are only found in spincast tackles, and they are an integral part of the reel. They are located at the end of the spool, and they gather the fishing line while retrieving. They also disengage while casting, allowing the line to move freely from the spool.
That said, take-up pins are not as durable as bail springs in spinning reels. For that reason, consider purchasing a spincast with metal take-up pins. Metal take-up pins are slightly durable than plastic ones.
Other features you should look for while purchasing a spincast reel include:
- Line capacity: Due to their design, spincast reels do not have a strong line capacity. It is hard to find a spincast with even a 150-yard line capacity. That said, don’t try to spool more lines than the spool can take because it will only reduce the performance of the tackle.
- Drag system: Chose a spincast with a drag system enough to prevent a fish from pulling a line out of the spool.
- Anti-reverse system: Anti-reverse helps prevent you from turning the handle in the opposite direction, releasing the line when you want to retrieve it. Many spincast reels have an anti-reverse switch, some having automatic while others have manual. I prefer automatic, but you can still use manual. Either way, ensure the reel has an anti-reverse switch.
The Way You Wish is Extremely Important
As much as there is a lot to consider while purchasing a spincasting reel, it all comes down to what you want. Your comfort should always be a priority. Here are a few things to help you determine what the best reel is for you.
Speed vs. Power
Ask yourself, do you want a reel with more torque or with a higher retrieval speed? Typically, a reel with a faster retrieval speed will have less power. Spincast reels usually have average retrieval speeds and power, but some are faster than others. As a beginner, you might want to consider more power than retrieval speed. Reels with faster retrieval speeds are often trickier.
Type of Fish and Environment
It is crucial to determine the type of fish you plan to catch because some reels work best with specific types of fish. For example, using a spincast for catfish to catch walleye can turn out to be ineffective. Therefore, don’t just buy because it provides smooth performance and it’s long-lasting, and forget that you need to consider your target fish.
It is also important to consider the target location. Do you plan to fish in the river, pond, or sea? If it is a pond, is the pond highly vegetated? If it is or has other challenges like rocks, consider purchasing the reel with the best accuracy.
Budget
In the end, your budget will determine the reel you should buy. After all, you cannot spend what you don’t have. Luckily, spincasts are usually very affordable, and you will always find a great spincast tackle within your price range. Make a list of great reels within your price range and use the factors we discussed to determine the best one for you.
Type of Water
You need to keep the type of water in mind while purchasing a spincast reel. Typically, using a freshwater spincast reel in saltwater can affect its performance and durability. For that reason, if you plan to fish in saltwater, you should equip yourself with a saltwater spincasting reel. A saltwater reel has corrosion-resistant materials, so you can expect them to last for a long time.
Your Fishing Technique
As much as there is a wide range of great spincasting tackles, not all can serve you right. You should consider the fishing technique you plan to use and choose the reel perfect at it. Some of the options include fly fishing tackles, surf fishing reels, and trolling tackles.
Brand
Finally, it is vital to choose a brand you will feel proud to be identified with. For spincast reels, some of the brands that have received a lot of love from users include KastKing, Zebco, and Pflueger. Trusted brands rarely disappoint, and they give a user some sense of pride.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Spincasts Reels
Even the best spincast reel will require your help if you want it to last for a long time. You need to take proper care of it and make replacements when the time comes.
Please note that it is not uncommon for a reel to face a few mechanical problems. However, it is crucial that it performs exceptionally when you go out. The only way to ensure you are not disappointed when in the fishing location is by taking proper care of your reel and examining it every time before going out. Here are a few tips that can help you take proper care of your reel:
Basic Cleaning
Cleaning your reel regularly is the most important thing you can do to help it last longer. Luckily, cleaning a spincasting reel is not hard. To make your work easier, rinse the reel after every fishing trip, especially if you fish in saltwater.
However, don’t use a high-pressure nozzle to rinse it. The pressure can force dirt or sand into the reel, affecting its performance. Be sure to tighten down the drag on your spincast drags to keep water from seeping inside while rinsing. Never store your reel before cleaning if you were fishing in saltwater or muddy area. The salt, dirt, and sand can damage it.
Loosen the Drag before Storage
After rinsing the reel, it is important to loosen the drag before storing it. Tightened drag encourages compression of drag washers, which can make the drag jerky and ineffective. Reduced pressure on the drag washers increases their durability and performance.
Proper Lubrication
Lubricating the movable parts in a spincast reel ensure that the reel remains in its best condition and performs excellently. However, you should not over lubricate the bearings, and you should not use heavy oil or grease to lubricate.
Heavy oil can leave residue on the bearings, which can inhibit their movement. Use lubricants designed for lubricating reels, for example, Rem Oil. Most spincast manufacturers recommend lubricating the reel at least once a month if you fish regularly.
Replace Old Line
Always keep an eye on your fishing line and replace it when the time comes to avoid frustrations. Replace a line after using it for a long time or if you note cuts on it. Old lines break easily while retrieving.
Fill the Spool Just Right
Never put more line in the spool than it can take. Typically, leave a 1/8 space on your spincast while filing the spool. Too much line in the spincast increases the risk of casting problems such as twists and tangles. Remove the cover of the spincast reel to see if you have left the right amount of space.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
1. What is the Best Spincast Reel on the Market?
The best spincasting reel varies from one user to another since we all have different tastes. Some prefer faster retrieval speed than torque, while others prefer heavier reels to light ones. However, if I have to choose one, I would choose the KastKing Brutus Spincast Reel. It is beginner-friendly, durable, has faster retrieval speed, and it comes from a trusted brand. It is also quite affordable and provides smooth performance. Other options you might want to consider include:
- Zebco Omega Pro- Best spincast reel for catfishing
- Zebco 33 spincasting reel- best spincasting tackle for saltwater fishing
- Zebco/ Quantum 33 KA- Best spincast for beginners and children
- Pflueger President Sizeunder Spin Reel- Best spincast reel under $100
- Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel- Best spincast reel under $50
2. Are Spincast Reels Any Good?
Yes, spincast reels are excellent, depending on what you are looking for in a reel. Typically, a spincaster is an excellent choice for beginners since it is easy to use, affordable, and doesn’t have many casting problems. Spincast reels are also the best choice for children for the same reasons.
However, you should note that they are not as durable as spinning reels, and they don’t provide precise accuracy like baitcasting reels. Still, they are worth your time and money.
3. What Kind of Rod Should I Use with a Spincasting Reel?
You should combine your spincasting reel with a spincast rod. A spincast rod is designed to hold a spincaster, and the reel is often mounted on top of the rod. Typically, a spincast rod will have “eyes” running through it where the line should pass through and a forefinger trigger.
Most spincast rods are lightweight and come with a comfortable handle. You should ensure the reel foot fits in the reel seat and provides a tight grip, though. If they don’t fit perfectly, buy another rod that fits.
4. What Are Spincast Reels Good For?
Spincast reels are excellent if you are targeting smaller to medium-sized species. They cast well with lighter lures, and they are generally lightweight. However, there are some spincasting tackles you can use for larger catches. A good example is the Zebco Omega Pro, one of the best spincasting reels for catfish.
5. What Are Spincast Reels Used For?
Spincasting reels are used to catch smaller to medium-sized fish. They are designed to solve common casting problems like backlashes and line tangles. They are often the best bet for beginners.
6. Are Zebco Spincast Reels Any Good?
Yes, Zebco is one of the most trusted brands for spincasting reels. They have a wide range of reels, and you can find a spincast for everything. In fact, it is hard to find a better spincast combo than Zebco combos. Furthermore, their reels are quite affordable.
Final Thoughts
Spincasts reels may not be as durable as baitcasting and spinning tackles, but they catch as many fish as the two. Many beginners prefer using spincast tackles because they are easy to use and inexpensive than other designs. Their combos are also cheap, and many parents prefer teaching their children how to fish with spincasts.
In this guide, I have discussed how to choose a spincast and then recommended some of the best spincasting reels in 2020. Hopefully, you will find a spincast that will make your fishing experience more productive and fun.
Related Resources:
- What is the Best Spinning Reel ?
- What is the Best Baitcasting Reel ?
- What are the Best Spincast Rod and Reel Combo?
