Spincast reels are a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. They’re easy to use and help prevent line tangles. So if you’re looking for a new closed face reel, you’ve come to the right place.
The best overall spincast reel on the market is the Zebco 33. This classic model offers smooth performance and durability at a good price. It’s perfect for catching a variety of fish species and works well for different fishing technniques.
You’ll find many other excellent options too. From budget-friendly picks to high-end models, there’s a spincast reel out there for every angler. We’ll explore some top choices below. If you’re a newbie, stick until the end to get some more info on closed face reels and how to choose them.
Best Overall: Daiwa Goldcast
The Daiwa Goldcast stands out as a top-notch spincast reel. The sturdy aluminum construction ensures it can handle tough fishing conditions for years to come.
You’ll appreciate the innovative cross bobbin winding design. This feature creates a flat line lay, giving you smoother and longer casts.
The reel’s durability is matched by its performance. It offers a smooth retrieve and reliable drag system, making it great for catching a variety of fish.
While it’s a bit pricier than some options, the Goldcast’s quality justifies the cost. It’s a solid choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Key features:
- Robust aluminum body
- Cross bobbin winding system
- Smooth drag
- Versatile for different fishing styles
The Goldcast comes in different sizes to suit your needs. Whether you’re after panfish or larger game, there’s a model for you.
Remember to maintain your reel properly. With good care, the Daiwa Goldcast can be your trusty fishing companion for many seasons.
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Most Popular: Zebco 33
The Zebco 33 is a classic spincast reel that’s been around for decades. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular with anglers of all skill levels.
This reel is perfect if you’re just starting out. You can cast it with the push of a button, making it super simple to use. Even experienced anglers love its reliability and smooth performance.
The Zebco 33 comes pre-spooled with 10-pound line. This means you can start fishing right away without any extra setup. It’s great for catching a variety of fish like bass, trout, and panfish.
Some key features of the Zebco 33:
- All-metal gears for durability
- Dial-adjustable drag to control fish fights
- Changeable right or left-hand retrieve
- Ball bearing drive for smooth casting and reeling
You’ll find the Zebco 33 is versatile enough for different fishing styles. Use it for bobber fishing, bottom fishing, or even light lure casting.
The affordable price point is another big plus. You get a quality reel without breaking the bank. It’s a smart choice whether you’re buying your first reel or adding to your collection.
With its long-standing reputation and user-friendly design, it’s no wonder the Zebco 33 remains a top pick among spincast reels.
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Best Affordable Reel: Shakespeare Synergy TI 10
The Shakespeare Synergy TI 10 is a great choice if you want a good reel without spending too much. It costs around $15 to $18, making it easy on your wallet.
This reel has some nice features:
- Polished stainless steel covers
- Smooth 2 ball bearing drive
- Titanium line pickup pin
You’ll find it easy to cast far with this reel. It works well with medium action freshwater rods.
The Synergy TI 10 is simple to use, which is great if you’re new to fishing. Its streamlined design looks good too.
But remember, while it’s cheap, it might not last as long as pricier reels. For the money though, you get a solid reel that can help you catch fish.
If you’re just starting out or don’t fish often, this reel could be perfect for you. It gives you good value without breaking the bank.
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Best Heavy-Duty: Zebco 808
The Zebco 808 is a top choice for anglers seeking a robust spincast reel. This sturdy reel can handle big fish and tough conditions with ease.
You’ll appreciate the 808’s all-metal gears, which provide strength and durability. The reel comes pre-spooled with 20-pound test line, perfect for targeting larger species.
Its QuickSet anti-reverse feature stops the handle from spinning backward, giving you more control when fighting fish. The 808 also boasts a smooth drag system to tire out strong fighters.
Here are some key features of the Zebco 808:
- Line capacity: 85 yards of 20-pound test
- Gear ratio: 2.6:1
- Ball bearings: 1
- Weight: 13.5 ounces
The 808’s large line capacity lets you cast far and tackle deep waters. Its slower gear ratio gives you extra power for reeling in hefty catches.
This reel works well for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It’s great for bass, catfish, and other big game fish.
The Zebco 808 is user-friendly, making it a good pick for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Its push-button casting system is easy to use, even with gloves on.
While it’s not the lightest reel, the 808’s weight adds to its stability and strength. You can count on this reel for years of reliable performance in demanding fishing situations.
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Pflueger President
The Pflueger President spincast reel is a top choice for many anglers. It comes in four models to suit different fishing needs.
You’ll find two spool sizes available. The 6 and 6U models can hold 90 yards of 6-pound test line. This gives you plenty of line for most fishing situations.
These reels have a 3.4:1 gear ratio. That means a slower retrieve, bringing in about 14.5 inches of line per crank. This slower speed can be great for certain fishing techniques.
The President reel is lightweight too. It weighs less than 9 ounces, so you won’t get tired holding your rod all day.
Pflueger built this reel to last. It has an aluminum frame and cone. These metal parts make it tough and durable.
You’ll enjoy smooth casting and reeling with the President. It uses a 5-bearing system that keeps everything running nicely.
The handle is made of aluminum for strength. It also has a soft-touch knob that feels good in your hand.
For beginners and experienced anglers alike, the Pflueger President offers reliable performance. Its quality construction and smooth operation make it a solid choice for your next fishing trip.
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Understanding Spincast Reels
Spincast reels are simple and user-friendly fishing tools. They’re great for beginners and casual anglers who want an easy-to-use reel.
The Basics of Spincast Reels
Spincast reels have a closed face design with a nose cone covering the spool. This setup helps prevent line tangles and backlash. To cast, you press a button on the back of the reel, then release it as you swing the rod forward.
The line comes out through a small hole in the nose cone. Inside, there’s a fixed spool that doesn’t rotate. This makes casting easier and more controlled.
Spincast reels are often lighter and cheaper than other types. They work well for catching smaller fish like bluegill, crappie, and small bass.
Comparing Spincast, Spinning, and Baitcast Reels
Spincast reels are the easiest to use of the three main reel types. Spinning reels have an open face and hang below the rod. They’re more versatile and can cast farther than spincast reels.
Baitcasting reels sit on top of the rod and offer the most control and power. But they’re also the hardest to master. They can lead to frustrating tangles if not used correctly.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Spincast: Easiest to use, good for beginners
- Spinning: Versatile, good for all skill levels
- Baitcasting: Most control, best for experienced anglers
You might start with a spincast reel and move to other types as you gain experience.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a spincast reel, pay attention to a few important factors. These will affect how well the reel performs and how enjoyable it is to use.
Gear Ratio and Retrieve Speed
The gear ratio tells you how fast the reel brings in line. A higher ratio means faster retrieval. Most spincast reels have ratios between 3.4:1 and 4.3:1.
For relaxed fishing, a lower ratio works fine. But if you want to reel in lures quickly, look for a higher ratio. The Daiwa Goldcast has a 4.1:1 ratio, which offers a nice balance of speed and power.
Remember, faster isn’t always better. A lower ratio gives you more torque for fighting big fish.
Line Capacity and Drag System
Line capacity is how much fishing line the reel can hold. More capacity lets you cast farther and fish deeper water. But it also makes the reel heavier.
The drag system controls how much resistance a fish feels when pulling line. A good drag is smooth and adjustable. This helps tire out fish without breaking your line.
The Pflueger Trion has a multi-disc drag system. This gives you precise control over the drag pressure.
Ball Bearings and Smooth Operation
Ball bearings reduce friction in moving parts. More bearings usually mean smoother operation. But quality matters more than quantity.
Look for stainless steel bearings. They resist corrosion better than other materials. This is crucial if you fish in saltwater.
A smooth reel makes fishing more fun. It reduces arm fatigue and helps you feel light bites better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spincast reels are popular for their ease of use and affordability. Here are some common questions about these reels to help you pick the right one.
What features should I look for in a high-quality spincast reel?
Look for reels with smooth retrieves and multiple ball bearings. A good drag system is key for fighting bigger fish. Durable materials like aluminum and stainless steel parts will help the reel last longer.
Pick a reel with an anti-reverse switch to prevent back-reeling. Adjustable spool tension lets you fine-tune the cast for different lure weights.
Which spincast reel is the best for beginners wanting to learn fishing?
The Zebco 33 is great for new anglers. It’s simple to use and comes pre-spooled with line. The push-button design makes casting easy, even for kids.
The Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff is another good choice. It’s tough and can handle beginner mistakes. The large line pickup hole helps reduce tangles.
What are some affordable spincast reels that provide the best value for money?
The Daiwa Goldcast offers great quality at a reasonable price. It has a smooth retrieve and solid construction. The Zebco Omega Pro is another good value, with seven ball bearings and a lightweight design.
For tight budgets, the Shakespeare Micro Spinning Reel works well. It’s compact and perfect for panfish and small trout.
Can you recommend a spincast reel that’s well-suited for bass fishing?
The Abu Garcia Max Pro is a top pick for bass. It has a strong drag system and can handle heavier lines. The Zebco Bullet is another good option, with a fast retrieve rate for working lures quickly.
Both reels can cast larger lures needed for bass fishing. They also have the power to pull big fish from cover.
What spincast reel models are considered the greatest of all time?
The Zebco 33 is a classic that’s been around for decades. It’s reliable and easy to use. The Daiwa Goldcast is another long-time favorite, known for its smooth performance.
The Johnson Century was popular in the past and is still loved by many anglers. These reels set the standard for spincast design.
Are there spincast reels designed for saltwater fishing, and what are the best options?
Yes, some spincast reels work for saltwater fishing. The Zebco Omega Z03 is built to resist corrosion. It has sealed bearings to keep out salt and sand.
The KastKing Brutus is another good saltwater choice. It has a metal body and brass gears for durability in harsh conditions. Remember to rinse your reel with fresh water after each use in salt water.
