Fishing products are supplied by Maurice sporting goods which is the top distributor in the market. They offer high quality products at low prices.
Freshwater and saltwater fishing demand different styles and types of equipment, and there are many factors that play into your decision when choosing a saltwater fishing reel in particular. From the type of fish you’re after to the environment you’ll be fishing in, your reel can come with a multitude of different options and compositions that can make it better (or worse!) for your angling needs.
If you’re in the market for a saltwater fishing reel, then read through this guide to ensure that you make the right purchase. Keep in mind that one saltwater reel may fare better in a certain situation while another style of saltwater reel may be optimal for another, so consider choosing several types to accommodate a variety of fishing styles.
With over 20,000 fishing items in our inventory, Outdoor Shopping has the most extensive lineup of fishing equipment online today! Shop our inventory of saltwater fishing reels at Outdoor Shopping.
Spinning vs Baitcasting: The Big Debate
There are two main categories (along with spincasting reels) of fishing reels: spinning and baitcasting. Depending on a variety of factors, you may find that one is better suited to your saltwater fishing needs than the other.
Reel Type | Guidelines | Best for: |
Spinning Reel | Easier to cast but lack in drag and durability. They aren’t robust enough for larger catches but work well for small-medium sized fish. |
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Baitcasting Reel | Typically reserved for the experienced angler, baitcasting reels can handle larger loads with better precision. Keep in mind that you will need to manage the line by using your thumb to regulate spool speed and stop it at the end of the cast. |
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Spincasting Reel | These have reduced line capacity and cast smaller baits/lures than spinning or baitcasters. They’re not intended for deep ocean waters. |
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There are two other styles of reel that can be even better suited to specific saltwater fishing conditions. These offshore styles have high-capacity spools and low gear ratios for snagging those larger catches.
Reel Type | Guidelines | Best for: |
Offshore Baitcaster | Specifically designed for heavy catches in deep ocean waters. Can be mounted on the back of a fishing boat and are extremely durable. |
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Offshore Trolling | These reels are not cast but rather the line is dropped and the reel plays out the desired amount of line, trolling the bottom of deep water. |
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Gears and Gear Ratio
Gearing is the ratio of spool evolutions to handle, and a 5.4:1 means the spool rotates 5.4 times per handle turn. The lower the ratio, the more torque the reel has (but the longer it will take to reel in your line). Some saltwater fishing reels have the ability to change between two gear ratios, giving the user more versatility.
Material Compositions
Saltwater is particularly corrosive to many materials - especially Magnesium. When choosing your saltwater fishing reel, ensure that no parts have Magnesium components, as these will rust and corrode quickly in saltwater and salt air environments. Rather, opt from some of these other materials for your spool and frame materials:
Material | Guidelines | Best for: |
Aluminum | Opt for anodized when possible, as these are the least susceptible to corrosion. Aluminum is durable but tends to be heavier than graphite. |
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Graphite | Lighter, less expensive, but also less durable. |
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Hybrid | Offering the best of both worlds, the hybrids of aluminum and graphite reels and frames are great for the versatile fisherman. |
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Ball Bearings
Ball bearings, bushings, and roller bearings can all improve the smoothness in your reel’s performance. Because more bearings means a smoother reel operation, you’ll typically want to get the most bearings you can with the money you plan to spend.
With saltwater fishing reels and bearings, opting for bearings that are impervious to saltwater may be well worth the extra cost, especially if you’re an avid angler! Even with the bigger pricetag, they’ll last longer.
With over 20,000 fishing items in our inventory, Outdoor Shopping has the most extensive lineup of fishing equipment online today! Shop our inventory of saltwater fishing reels at Outdoor Shopping.
