Oct 22, 2009

Fly Fishing Reels - 10 Tips For Choosing the Right One

If you're a keen angler, you'll know the importance of having the right sort of fishing reel. If you're new to fishing, you might not really know exactly what to look for, and why.
Here are 10 tips to help you choose the right fly fishing reels.
1. Fishing reels are a fundamental part of fishing, and arguably as important as the rod itself. Getting the reel wrong could mean that you don't catch as many fish, or that you don't enjoy fishing as much.
2. If you fish for trout, then you might be one of the anglers that strip the line manually, rather than using the handle. If you do, you'll want to make sure that you can do this with your new reel. If you don't already, perhaps you will do once you get your new reel.
3. Those who fish for salmon will often use the handle of their fishing reel, so if you've fished for trout before and are now fishing for salmon, you might find the action of the reel different to what you're used to.
4. If you're fishing for fish for both salmon and trout, then perhaps you'll come to the conclusion that you need two rods and reels. This will mean that you don't have to change the reels when you're fishing for the other sort of fish.
5. A lightweight reel is favoured by a lot of anglers. However, some anglers don't like the fishing reel to be too light as it can often lose the balance of the rod, and make it harder to use. You'll need to check for yourself and make sure it's comfortable for you.
6. If you get a new reel, will you also need new lines to go with it, or will you choose a fishing reel that fits the lines you've already got?
7. By marking the weight of the line on the reel, you'll always know which reel to use in all circumstances. Perhaps you might only have a couple of reels, but once you start to take your fishing more seriously, and need different rods and reels, you'll be glad to be able to pick up what you need quickly.
8. A fishing reel bag will help to keep your reels in proper working order, and mean that they don't require as much maintenance as they'll be properly looked after. Storing them in a dedicated bag will also make sure that they don't get damaged whilst in your fishing bag.
9. You might already have a brand or model of fishing reel in mind, based on your previous experience, a review, or a friend's recommendation. You shouldn't discount other brands or models as they might be more suitable for your needs and budget.
10. If you're serious about fishing, and most anglers are, then the cost of the reel should not be as important as it's function and durability. You won't want to keep having to buy new fishing reels, nor will you want to spend a fortune on the wrong reels.
Now you know more about fishing reels, and how to choose the right one, isn't it time that you made sure that your fishing tackle is up to the job?
Find your perfect Fishing Reels and the latest Fishing Rods from all the leading brands, as well as all the fishing tackle, and accessories you need, at JohnNorris.co.uk today.