A NEW REEL FOR OPEN WATER FISHING 
By Bob Jensen

Oftentimes an angler puts more thought into selecting a new reel for fishing than any other piece of fishing equipment. Although the fish don't care what kind of reel is being used, the reel you choose can have an impact on how many fish you catch. Following are some ideas for selecting a new reel for the upcoming open water fishing season.

The first choice is whether a spinning reel or casting reel is appropriate. If most of your fishing is with light line, say eight, maybe ten-pound test or less, a spinning reel would be a good choice. Spinning reels are those that hang under the rod. If you will be casting a lot with lighter lures, spinning is again a good selection.

If you use heavier line, cast heavy lures, or troll a lot, then you would probably be better off with a casting reel. Casting reels at one time had a reputation of being difficult to operate, but the new ones, with just a little practice in the back yard, are very trouble-free and easy to use.

Next you need to decide if you want left or right hand retrieve. With many spinning reels, the handle can be switched to either side, so this isn't an issue.

Most casting reels however, don't have the option of switching the side the handle is on. You will need to decide which is most comfortable for you before you buy. Most anglers prefer to turn the reel handle with their right hand and hold the rod with their left hand when using casting equipment. This is exactly the opposite of spinning equipment. I don't know why that is, but that's the way it is. I am right handed and prefer to hold the rod, regardless of casting or spinning, in my right hand and turn the reel handle with my left hand. Do what feels best to you.

Gear ratio is another consideration. A 6:1 gear ratio will enable you to reel a lure in faster than a 4:1 gear ratio, but the 4:1 gear ratio will provide more power. Trollers usually like the lower gear ratio for the power. If you plan to cast mostly, the faster gears will be better.

When selecting a casting reel, and if you will be mostly casting instead of trolling, a low-profile reel will be a good choice. These reels are very comfortable to hold onto if you will be casting and reeling all day. The new Torno reels from Abu Garcia are a good example of a low profile reel that is exceptionally comfortable to fish with.

Ball bearings are a consideration also. It seems like more ball bearings create a smoother reel and add strength. Some spinning reels have up to ten bearings. The new Abu Garcia Cardinal reels are strong and smooth, as are the time-tested but up-dated Mitchell 300X and 308X.

The cost of truly high quality reels has come down in the past couple of years. The reels mentioned earlier provide excellent quality and reliability at very reasonable prices.

Remember, the fish don't care what kind of reel you're using, but the reel can play a role in how many fish you catch. Keep these ideas in mind and you'll be closer to fooling more fish.