The Reel Difference Between Baitcasting & Spinning Reels
Although baitcasting and spinning reels are different from each other, there has been an eternal bias on which to use or which is better. A baitcaster launches heavier lures farther with accuracy, and a spinning reel is better for fishing with lighter lures.
Baitcasting
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Casting accuracy
- Holds heavier lines
- Strong and smooth drag capabilities
- Handles heavy and large game fish
- Highly customizable
- Hauling Power
Cons
- Falls in the premium category
- Requires experience to handle
- It could be tricky to switch between left and right orientations
A baitcaster is the best choice to strategically drop your line in a hot spot or a more crowded area. Owing to its qualities, a baitcaster is powerful enough for an offshore fishing reel. The reel uses the dominant hand to hold the rod to cast. The angler switches hands to reel in the cast so the dominant hand can control it. While casting, many anglers use their thumb to break and control the line to prevent nesting or backlash.
Spinning Reels
Pros
- Versatile for various fishing techniques
- Less prone to backlash when compared to other reels
- Capable of achieving long casting distances
Cons
- Offers less precision with heavy lures
- Casting reels typically have heavier drag
Spinning reels hang beneath the fishing rod. It has an open design with a spool (where the fishing line is wound) that’s visible. You can use them for casting, trolling, both in freshwater and saltwater. It is easy to use because it lets out the line smoothly is less likely to backlash than a casting reel.
Baitcaster Reel vs Spinning Reel
Baitcaster Reel
Skill Level
Intermediate to expert fishers as it takes time to master.
Casting Distance
Longer and more accurate casting distance.
Best Line Type
Braided and heavier lines.
Best Lure Type
Heavier-weight lures.
Ideal Fish Size
Large, tricky, and heavy fish.
Mount
On top of the rod
Price
Variable
Line Release
Thumb bar line release.
Maintenance
Oil periodically.
Spinning Reel
Skill Level
Recommended for beginner anglers.
Casting Distance
Average casting capabilities.
Best Line Type
Suitable for all line types.
Best Lure Type
Lighter-weight lures.
Ideal Fish Size
Small to medium fish.
Mount
Mounted underneath the rod.
Price
Variable
Line Release
Manually opening the bail arm.
Maintenance
Oil periodically.