Baitcasting Reel Reviews

The dawn of a new era in fishing using a baitcaster is upon us. This reel, made by U.S. Reels company is a baitcasting reel that represents a new era in the mechanics of baitcasting reels. Much like U.S. Reels supercaster spinning reels, the SC1000 and the SC1000 Pro were designed to address an ongoing problem with the existing baitcasting reel designs you find with all other reel manufacturers.

Everyone that uses a traditional baitcasting reel is aware of backlashes. This happens when you cast your line out and you don’t properly “thumb” the spool. What happens is backlash and a lot of line that gets tangled up. The reason this happens, is the traditional level wind spool has to pause when you cast out the line then accelerates to catch up. This acceleration can begin a backlash! So how do you minimize backlash? First you must properly “thumb the spool in order to control or stop the backlash or you create a baitcaster with no eyelet, which adds to the backlash problem.

That’s exactly what the U.S Reels company did. They created a reel with no eyelet, which will allow the line to leave the reel straight and virtually free of friction, regardless of the position of the line. How does it work?

The new baitcaster has an “angled bar levelwind” which is the heart of the system that levels the line on the spool by a rotating angle bar which creates a see-saw effect to guide the line instead of an eyelet. The rolling motion of the bar levels the line, but during the casting phase does not restrict the line like a typical levelwind eyelet.

The levelwind is also adjustable. The height of the new levelwind system regulates casting control. When in the highest position, the angled bar minimizes the need to thumb the reel during a cast and yet the reel casts farther than most reels because the reel is not limited by the eyelet. When in a lower position look out because the reel will literally cast a long, long distance.

The spool on this reel actually rotates the wrong way. It works better this way because it is best mechanically with the angle bar action levelwind. An angle is required for the see- saw action to work. When the line comes from below, it creates this angle. Spool control is easier with the spool turning into the thumb, rather than moving away from the thumb. Backlashes are rare. If they do happen, they come untangled easier. There isn’t much of a learning curve with this reel compared to a traditional levelwind baitcasting reel. If you always wanted to fish with a baitcaster but were afraid of backlashes, well this is the reel for you! Either way this reel makes fishing with a baitcast style reel much easier, and more enjoyable.

The following is a comprehensive guide to some of the better known manufacturers of saltwater fishing equipment and brief descriptions of sample products they have available.

From Barefoot Rods comes their Inshore Spinning Rods that are measured in grams instead ounces and are extremely lightweight yet durable. This system is being touted as the hallmark design of the company. As well as their Nearshore Magigraff Boat Rods with Trigger which are prefect against even the toughest of game fish.

The Accurate XNERGY rods are created of six-ply graphite glass material that is extremely light weight Available in three classes, the Boss Series that are available ias either conventional or spinning rods and all feature the float filcrum unique to Accurate.
All the Accurate XNERGY rods feature the unique "Floating Fulcrum Design".

The new Man O War Series from Cape Fear is designed with trolling and casting in mind and is built to withstand any choir the oceans may present. Also from Caper Fear comes the totally new offshore system with the The Bluewater Series.
The trademarked Hextek technology makes your line so sensitive you can feel the very first nibble yet is amazingly strong and can pass the test of even the most challenging catch.

St. Croix offers one of the widest selection of saltwater fishing gear that feature Fuji made components. Some of their better known include the Triumph Spinning Rod, the Tidemaster Inshore casting rods, Legend Elite Spinning and Casting Rods as well as many new designs like the handcrafted inshore rod designed for easy travel from premium graphite and the new Legend Tournament Musky rods.

Penn offers a diverse selection with everything from their Penn Tuna Stick Rods to their International V RS/RF Standup Rods, right down to travel rods and big game rods as well as a fine selection of trolling rods in the Senator model. The newly resigned classic Penn Slammer Rod is better looking and more durable than before.

Following is list of additional manufacturers and distributors that have a long history in the industry as suppliers saltwater fishing equipment:

All Star Graphite Rods
American Rodsmiths
Assassin Co.
Biscayne Rod Manufacturing
Calstar Fishing Rods and Blanks
Crowder Rods
Damon Rods
Lamiglas
Redbone
Roberts Rods

Top Four

1. Shimano Teramar Southeast Casting Rod
2. Offshore Angler - Inshore Extreme Casting Rod
3. All Star "Big Boy" Rod
4. St. Croix Tidemaster Inshore Casting Rods

The proper rod and reel accompanied with the correct lures and tackle will assure success on your next fishing expedition. Remember safety is the best policy and always be prepared whether on shore or at sea with properly maintained gear and the best equipment for you choice of fishing style.

It can be a labourious task to clean a fishing reel and ensure that you maintain it after each trip. However, most fishing reel faults can be put down to the fact that it was not cleaned properly and now has corroded parts or instead underperforms. This is an anglers most frustrating problem.

Preparing your fishing trip however should incorporate a full cleanse of your tackle and equipment, and the most important aspect of them is the reel. A good reel should last you for a long time due to the quality construction, however, like any mechanical device it also needs to be looked after.

There are however, a few things you can do in order to keep your reel in tip-top shape.

After you have removed the reel from the rod, you will need to take the handle off - these usually have a reverse locking system so you just need to unwind it. Next, with a damp cloth, wipe over the visible areas of the reel - make sure the water is clean and not salt water as this will corrode the components.

Depending on the reel you have you will then need to remove the sideplate. Some of the unclip, or unwind while others are screwed in place - you should consult the manual if you are unsure. To clean the inside of the reel, remove any dirt with a swab and be sure to get out any other debris.

Apply some bearing grease, or WD40 to the bearings and gears while you are inside as well to keep them fresh as this is one of the main causes of reel failure. Once you are done it is safe to put the reel back together again. You should finally give the handle a good wash as this is likely to have water, bait and all other dirt over it.

Just rinsing in water should suffice, but again make sure it is clean water you are using. As you can see, if doesnt take much to look after a reel, and if you do you will keep it performing like it did when you first got it.

If you ever have a reel stop working while you are trying to retrieve a fish, perhaps its time to look into the maintenance of your reel.

Secrets to Catching Saltwater Fish

Salty backwater fishing is by far my favorite type of fishing. I have fished the backwaters from North Carolina around the Florida peninsula to Texas. Although there is a variety of fish to catch at each location, the right tackle is a must if you want to keep reelin’ ‘em in. Whether you’re saltwater fishing Florida for snook or reeling in red fish in the Carolinas or Texas, here’s some useful advice and secrets that will keep ‘em taking the bait.

Keep your gear light.

It’s best to spend a little extra money for the right gear so you can remain light while fighting a 15 pound red screaming though the grass or mangroves. A medium heavy rod with 6' to 6'6" one piece carbon and a 10lb to 12lb line weight saltwater spinning reel is plenty. You’ll be throwing your arm off if your gear is too heavy. I like a reel with at least 5 ball bearings and classified "Salt Water." I spool up with 15lb braided line. It is the size of 6lb mono and hard to cut off on the snags, and it is light to cast. I then tie a 6' length of 20lb fluorocarbon leader directly to the braid using a double uni-knot. The less visable terminal tackle the better.

Use bait that will keep ‘em biting.

To catch salt water fish you’ll need the right bait. I recently conducted a test in both South Carolina and Florida and found that Gulp Alive Shrimp work equally as well as live shrimp. Immersed in a high octane solution, this realistic-looking bait emits a powerful scent that will keep fish attracted to your bait. Unlike live bait, this bait lasts all day. And when you’re finished, you can put ‘em back in the juice and use them again the next day. While the favorite bait of most lure fishermen is the gold Johnson spoon –and some prefer jig heads with wiggly, soft plastic swimmers on them–my favorite bait is live shrimp on a 1/0 circle hook with a popping cork set just above the waters depth. Why? How does this help? Foraging fish are on or near the bottom. Setting a popping cork just short of the depth puts the bait in the range of water they are in and allows the current to carry the bait, causing it to bounce along the bottom.

Surf fishing requires heavier gear.

Another popular method for catching saltwater fish is surf fishing. The secret to catching fish in the surf is to keep your bait in the trenches where the game fish lie in wait. For this type of fishing you’ll need pretty heavy gear. I recommend a 10' to 12 ' medium heavy rod so you can cast out to the trench. A good heavy (about 30 size) spinning reel is the easiest to handle. I like 30lb braid because it is more than you need and only as big and heavy as 12lb mono, so it casts nicely and practically can't be broken off. I attach a 30lb fluorocarbon leader of about 6' and whatever rig I’m using. It’s best to use the pyramid shaped bottom sinkers to hold your bait in the trench. Gulp Alive will work here also but most guys prefer sand fleas or other live or cut bait. The heavier the surf the heavier your sinker needs to be. Don't forget to get a spike rod holder to stick in the sand. Those rigs are just too heavy to hold onto all day.

For video tips and tricks to catch Pompano from the surf, see Surfin Sapo's video on MyTackleSpace.com. A social fishing forum.

Check back here soon for more tips, tricks and helpful information. ‘Til next time, tight lines!

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Fishing rod reels are a vital part of any fishing gear. The markets are full of different varieties of fishing reel, which differ in style and price. It is practically impossible to succeed in fishing without a good fishing reel.

One may get confused, when it comes to purchase an apt fishing reel. The search can be narrowed down, by knowing the kind of fishing for which the reel is required. If it is required for fly fishing, then according to the need some specific reels can be bought, and for the casting purpose, spinning reels are the best. So in fact the purchase should be based on the kind of fishing, which has to be done using it.

The most expensive, fly casting reels fulfill the purpose of specialized skills, which are needed during fly fishing. They are especially designed in a light weighted pattern so as to provide the user with a smooth and effective cast. These reels are not provided with any kind of gears so that when the handle is turned once, the spool also gets turned simultaneously. A special expertise is needed to handle these dish shaped and narrow reels.
Spinning reels cater to the needs of everyone, starting from a child learning to cast to the most perfect anglers. The beginners should go for closed face reels as they are quite easy to handle. It is extremely easy to operate these reels with the help of a button, which lets the line out. An enclosed case is used to keep the fishing line for such reels. The only disadvantage of using closed face reels is that they are very difficult to clean. The debris, which comes along with the reel, gets trapped in the closed case, causing hindrance with the drag.

If done as a beginner, then better to go for an open faced reel, which has an exposed fishing line having a bail attached to it. This bail can slide over and can easily be held down while casting while the line flies out at the last minute release. These reels come in an infinite variety and most experts have many of them in their collection.

The mounting of the reel is influenced by the kind of fishing for which it is being used. While being used for fly fishing, the reel is mounted at the base of the handle, quite below it. This is done to balance the fishing rod with the help of the reel. While using spinning reel, the reel is placed at the top of the fishing rod. A drag system is also attached to it in order to prevent the line from breaking when the fish is on.

Hence considering the requirement and the budget, the reel can be chosen accordingly.

If you want a lightweight reel that casts farther than any other spinning reel on the market, the U.S Reels company has the reel for you. They make the SX series of spinning reels, which I think are the best on the market for the price. They are made with lightweight carbon fiber components, high quality SDS drag system, four ABEC stainless steel ball bearings and wide spool design for long, smooth, accurate casts.

The 180SX weighs only 7.2 ounces. The 230SX weighs in at 8.9 ounces while the 240SX weighs 9.9 ounces. These are some of the lightest reels on the market, which makes them easier to cast and you don't get tired so quickly! They work great with braid line as well as Monofilament line.

The 230SX Supercaster utilizes proprietary materials in a high pressure stack system that ca generate more drag than all but the biggest spinning reels. Another feature is this reel has a sealed drag making it ideal for saltwater as well as freshwater fishing applications. The supercaster has a larger diameter spool relative to the drag disks. This leverage means the supercaster starts with less loading and faster than all other reels. That means the drag can be set higher than all other reels. In addition, the exclusive SDS steady drag system compensates for drag temperature increases and reduced line as line is paid out so that drag tension remains the same throughout the fight.

Other benefits of the wide spool design, is less line twist which means less line is wrapped around the spool. By reducing the twist it reduces the line memory which means fewer line control problems and greater casting efficiency. Casting distance is another benefit of the supercaster reels. The wide design put line on the spool in bigger loops so on the cast those larger loops will explode off the reel for casts up to 30% farther than the long nose reels.

The supercasters are the most versatile reels. One supercaster model can fulfill the requirements of up to four sizes of a competitor's reel. For example, the 180 SX can fulfill the need of a 500 size up to a 2500 size reel. The 230SX from a 1000 size to a 4000 size reel, and the 240SX from a 2000 size to a 5000 size reel.

If you want the best spinning reels on the market today, I would recommend looking at the Supercaster reeels from the U.S. Reel company. You don't have to spend a lot of money on the best.

Saltwater fishing is nothing like freshwater fishing. To begin with, saltwater fishing takes significantly stronger and heavier tackle and equipment than that used by freshwater fishermen.

There are several categories of saltwater fishing discussed in this article.

For starters, there is the light-medium category, which would include fishing for certain species such as Snook, Redfish and Spotted Sea Trout. These fish and others in this category are typically caught in bays and other similar estuaries. Also included in this category would be inshore fish such as the Pompano. If you are fishing for these species to eat them, be aware that during summer months redfish and trout will most probably contain worms.

A spinning reel in the class of a Penn 710 or 712, or 4500ss spooled with a fine quality 10-pound test monofilament line works better along with light to medium action rod. Penn makes good quality reels that will hold up to the harsh saltwater fishing environment.

For terminal tackle you will begin by tying a shock leader of approximately 18 inches using 20 pound test line or fluorocarbon. Fluorocarbon is slightly more expensive but is significantly less visible to the fish. Attach the leader tying line to line or use a saltwater rated barrel swivel. For the hook you'd better use a 6/0, preferably an Eagle Claw.

The second category afferent to saltwater fishing is the medium to heavy category for species such as Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel, and smaller Jacks. These species of fish are most usually found near shore regions of the Gulf of Mexico and on the Lower East Coast. In this class you could also include the smaller “schoolie” King Mackerel under the legal size limit of 24”.

Do not forget to first consult a saltwater species book for knowing the difference between the large Spanish and juvenile Kingfish. They are extremely similar. The easiest way to tell the difference is that the Spanish Mackerel will have a "black flag", on the anterior portion of its dorsal fin where the King Mackerel, with the exception of very young fish, does not have this special detail. The second more reliable way to tell is by looking at the lateral line that runs down the body. In a Spanish Mackerel this line drops gradually behind the pectoral fin whereas in the King Mackerel the line drops off sharply.

To be on the safe side, equip yourself with a Penn 704 or similar size equipment spooled with 12-15 lb test coupled with a thin wire leader of 20lb test or so. Check your local fishing regulations for the most appropriate hook, in Florida a small treble like a 2/0 is used.

From the moment the inshore net bans were placed these species have come back more abundantly than ever and you are most certain to find some. Keep in mind that Redfish, King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel are migratory species so you will have to verify the seasonal availability for these species of fish.

Enjoy your fishing trip. Tight lines!

There are many different fly fishing reels on the market, including antique fly fishing reels to choose from, for those who are more avid collectors. There are certain considerations to take into account according to fly fishing reel reviews, two of the most important being what type of drag and what type of retrieval system the particular reels use. In addition, it is important to have a sturdy reel that will hold up in all kinds of conditions, but should also be lightweight which allows for great maneuverability for the fly fisherman according to fly fishing reel reviews.

Types of Reels

The prices of different fly fishing reels have a huge variation according to fly fishing reel reviews. For instance, Okuma fly fishing reels are the least expensive on the market, with the lowest level of the Okuma reels only cost about fifteen dollars, whereas the much more expensive Sage fly fishing reels cost almost one hundred dollars for their value-line reels.

On the top end of the Okuma line of fly fishing reels still only costs not quite two hundred dollars, whereas the Sage top of the line fly fishing reels cost almost seven hundred dollars. Two features that a fly fisherman needs to look at according to fly fishing reel reviews is the drag and retrieval system. There are two main types of drag systems that are used on fly fishing rods according to fly fishing reel reviews.

The most common drag system is the spring and pawl system which makes a clicking sound when it is working, allowing the line to gradually play out rather than jerking out and causing a tangled mess at the fly fisherman's feet. The kind of drag system that is better for larger fish is the silent disk system, which applies drag to the line so the large fish does not jerk the line out.

The other feature that a fly fisherman needs to look at in a reel according to fly fishing reel reviews is the retrieval system that is used which allows the fly fisherman to pull in the line so that they can cast the line again. There are three basic types of retrieval systems, the most common of which is the single retrieval system which puts all the work on the fly fisherman reeling the line in. A multiplying retrieval system allows the work of the fly fisherman to more quickly reel the line in and an automatic system is the quickest, only requiring the fly fisherman to press a button or flip a lever to retrieve the line.

Anglers fishing along the coast of North Carolina might choose to fish from the surf, jetties, piers, inlets, bridges, or by boat. The wide variety of saltwater fishing allows anglers of any age, sex or physical condition a chance to enjoy the sport.

Pier Fishing

Pier fishing can vary from the simple tackle to a few very complicated rigs. Beginners will feel very much at ease and many piers have a family atmosphere and lots of people willing to help each other learn. Calling ahead to commercial piers is one way to prepare. Anglers can also check regional websites for pier fishing reports and tips.

Common items to bring might include a cooler, ice, drinks, snacks, sunblock, insect repellent, knife, bait, rags, pliers, rod and reels, tackle, and a camera. It's a good idea to create a list of items needed and pack them beforehand. You will also want to consider how you will transport all this gear onto the pier.

Surf fishing

Surf fishing is popular along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Depending on the season, location and species targeted, anglers may fish with one or several types of cut baits, live baits or with artificial lures. Surf anglers use long rods and spinning or conventional reels and often carry sand spikes to hold the rods and a cooler on wheels called a surf buggy.

Inshore Fishing

Inshore fishing is a good choice for many anglers. Inshore fishing can be done from private boats or by fishing with a guide. Anglers use bait and artificials to catch a variety of North Carolina species.

Deep Sea Fishing

Deep Sea or Offshore fishing is an exciting sport. Anglers fish for tuna, marlin, swordfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, sharks and other pelagic species. Depending on the species and location, anglers may troll, jig, bottom fish, or use other techniques.

North Carolina offshore fishing is sometimes done from small boats, but is dominated by large sportfishing boats, often equipped with twin engines. In either case, the dangerous nature of offshore fishing demands that boats are equipped with an arsenal of safety gear.

Charter Boats

North Carolina Charter boats are popular options in most saltwater fishing areas. A good local charter boat will provide anglers with a safe, enjoyable experience. Charter boats are typically larger than private boats and can usually accommodate 6 or more anglers.

Head Boats

Head boats are another good option for many anglers. Unlike charter boats, head boats carry large groups, sometimes over 50 anglers! Head boats have many advantages, including lower costs, shared resources and an atmosphere that makes it easy to learn new techniques from other anglers. The down side of head boats is that anglers have more competition and are much more likely to get tangled or feel crowded while fishing.

The following is a comprehensive guide to some of the better known manufacturers of saltwater fishing equipment and brief descriptions of sample products they have available.

From Barefoot Rods comes their Inshore Spinning Rods that are measured in grams instead ounces and are extremely lightweight yet durable. This system is being touted as the hallmark design of the company. As well as their Nearshore Magigraff Boat Rods with Trigger which are prefect against even the toughest of game fish.

The Accurate XNERGY rods are created of six-ply graphite glass material that is extremely light weight Available in three classes, the Boss Series that are available ias either conventional or spinning rods and all feature the float filcrum unique to Accurate.
All the Accurate XNERGY rods feature the unique "Floating Fulcrum Design".

The new Man O War Series from Cape Fear is designed with trolling and casting in mind and is built to withstand any choir the oceans may present. Also from Caper Fear comes the totally new offshore system with the The Bluewater Series.
The trademarked Hextek technology makes your line so sensitive you can feel the very first nibble yet is amazingly strong and can pass the test of even the most challenging catch.

St. Croix offers one of the widest selection of saltwater fishing gear that feature Fuji made components. Some of their better known include the Triumph Spinning Rod, the Tidemaster Inshore casting rods, Legend Elite Spinning and Casting Rods as well as many new designs like the handcrafted inshore rod designed for easy travel from premium graphite and the new Legend Tournament Musky rods.

Penn offers a diverse selection with everything from their Penn Tuna Stick Rods to their International V RS/RF Standup Rods, right down to travel rods and big game rods as well as a fine selection of trolling rods in the Senator model. The newly resigned classic Penn Slammer Rod is better looking and more durable than before.

Following is list of additional manufacturers and distributors that have a long history in the industry as suppliers saltwater fishing equipment:

All Star Graphite Rods
American Rodsmiths
Assassin Co.
Biscayne Rod Manufacturing
Calstar Fishing Rods and Blanks
Crowder Rods
Damon Rods
Lamiglas
Redbone
Roberts Rods

Top Four

1. Shimano Teramar Southeast Casting Rod
2. Offshore Angler - Inshore Extreme Casting Rod
3. All Star "Big Boy" Rod
4. St. Croix Tidemaster Inshore Casting Rods

The proper rod and reel accompanied with the correct lures and tackle will assure success on your next fishing expedition. Remember safety is the best policy and always be prepared whether on shore or at sea with properly maintained gear and the best equipment for you choice of fishing style.