Which reel size should you choose?
A fixed-spool reel in size 2500 to 3000 is the all-round choice for most trout and grayling fishing.
The size follows a number system, and the numbers below are rough guides.
| Size | Suits |
|---|---|
| 1000–2000 | Ultralight. Shy trout and char, thin line and small lures. |
| 2500–3000 | All-round for most trout and grayling fishing. |
| 3000–4000 | Big trout and pike. Heavy line and a strong drag. |
Reel types
The fixed-spool reel suits most species, the baitcaster gives more power for pike and trolling, and the closed reel is beginner-friendly.
Fixed-spool reel (spinning reel)
Size 1000-4000The most common and simplest. Line peels off a fixed spool. Suits a spinning rod and most species.
Baitcasting reel (multiplier)
Size 150-300Sits on top of the rod and gives more power and precision, but has a steeper learning curve. Popular for pike and trolling.
Closed reel (spincast)
Size 10-40A reel with a cover over the spool. Beginner-friendly and rarely tangles, but casts shorter.
Ice fishing reel
Size 500-1000A small, light reel for ice fishing, often on a short jigging rod.
How tight should the drag be, and how do you look after the reel?
Set the drag to a quarter to a third of the line’s breaking strain, so it gives before the line breaks.
Fill the spool
Fill the spool almost to the lip; it gives longer, smoother casts.
Maintenance
Rinse in fresh water after salt use, dry well and add a little oil now and then.
Check the line
Look over the last few metres for wear, and replace leader that is stiff or damaged.
Common questions
What reel size suits trout?
- A 1000 to 2000 for light work with small lures and thin line, 2500 to 3000 as the all-round size most people should start with, and 3000 to 4000 for pike, big rivers and heavier lures. The size should balance the rod: a heavy reel on a light rod is tiring to cast all day. Reel types, size and drag
How tight should the drag be?
- Around a quarter to a third of the line breaking strain. A rough test: pull line straight off the reel by hand, and it should give smoothly with clear resistance and no jerking. Set it too tight and the line breaks or the hook tears free on the first run.