Bass Fishing Reels

What's the difference between casting reels, spinning reels, and spincast reels?

Each reel type has unique advantages depending on your skill level and fishing style:

Casting Reels (commonly referred to as baitcasters) utilize a spool that rotates as you cast and retrieve, offering greater control and power—perfect for heavier lures and line. They require some thumb control to prevent the line from tangling, making them best suited for intermediate to advanced anglers.

Spinning Reels feature a fixed spool and bail system, making them easier to cast and manage. Spinning reels are best suited for lighter lures and lighter line, offering a forgiving casting experience that’s ideal for beginners and finesse anglers.

Spincast Reels borrow features from both casting and spinning reels, creating a super straightforward operation. Spincast reels are the easiest to cast and are a great choice for kids and first-time anglers.

How much should I spend on my first bass fishing reel?

When buying a reel, the price range will come down to your personal budget. Fortunately, reel technology has come a long way over the last decade, so you don’t have to spend a ton to get a quality entry-level reel. Whether you’re looking at spinning reels or casting reels, expect to spend anywhere from $50.00–$100.00 to get your foot in the door.

Can I use the same reel for both freshwater and saltwater?

While some reels can be used in both saltwater and freshwater, most bass fishing reels are designed specifically for freshwater use. If you need a reel for both environments, look for models with sealed bearings, ceramic components, and corrosion-resistant materials that stand up to saltwater exposure. Most reels on TackleWarehouse.com that are suited for saltwater will note this in their product description or features list.

What's the difference between left-hand and right-hand retrieve?

For fishing reels, handedness refers to which side the handle is positioned on. While not a strict rule, most anglers prefer to reel with their dominant hand—meaning right-handed anglers often use right-hand retrieve reels. Spinning and spincast reels typically feature interchangeable handles to accommodate either preference. Each Tackle Warehouse reel product page includes a specification chart showing the reel’s handedness in the “Retrieve” column.