Fishing reels for every angling method
The right reel should match your rod, fishing method, target species and the conditions you expect to face. Spinning reels are the most versatile option for lure fishing, general freshwater angling and many light sea-fishing applications. Multiplier reels include conventional and low-profile baitcasting designs, giving anglers direct control when casting heavier lures or working tackle from a boat.
For specialist methods, baitrunner reels use a secondary drag system that allows a fish to take line before the main drag is engaged, making them popular for carp, specimen and deadbait fishing. Carp reels provide the line capacity and controlled drag needed for long-range and powerful setups, while feeder reels are designed for repeated accurate casting and efficient line retrieval. Match/Bolo reels suit float and match techniques, surf reels offer large spools and casting capacity for shore fishing, and fly reels are selected to balance the rod and hold the correct fly line and backing.
Fishing reel brands available at Emerald Ripple
Our reel collection includes established brands across predator, coarse, carp, fly and sea angling. Abu Garcia offers a particularly broad selection of spinning, baitcasting and multiplier reels. Savage Gear and Westin provide modern spinning and baitcasting options for lure and predator anglers, while Kinetic covers spinning, baitrunner, surf, baitcasting and boat-fishing styles. Shakespeare and Mitchell add a wide range of spinning, freespool, multiplier, fly and sea-fishing reels.
For feeder and coarse fishing, Matrix, Preston Innovations and Korum offer purpose-built options for accurate casting and dependable line control. Greys specialises strongly in fly reels, while Prologic, JRC and Fox are represented across carp and freespool styles. DAM and Fox Rage add further choices for general and predator fishing. Brand is useful as a starting point, but the reel’s size, line capacity, drag, retrieve ratio and intended method should guide the final decision.
How to choose the right fishing reel
Start by choosing the reel type, then match its size and capacity to the rod and line. Smaller spinning reels can suit light lure and float setups, while larger reels provide additional capacity and drag performance for heavier lines, long casts, carp or shore fishing. Reel sizes are not completely standardised between manufacturers, so compare the specifications rather than relying only on the number printed on the model.
Consider the gear ratio and line retrieve per handle turn. A faster retrieve can help pick up slack quickly or work certain lures, while a lower ratio may provide more controlled power under load. The drag should operate smoothly and offer enough adjustment for the line and species being targeted. Also check spool material, spare-spool availability, reel weight, bearing count and handle configuration.
For baitcasting reels, confirm whether the handle is left- or right-handed and match the reel to a suitable baitcasting rod. For sea fishing, choose a reel intended for saltwater use where possible, rinse it carefully after exposure and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance.
Complete your rod and reel setup
Pair your reel with the appropriate fishing rod and fishing line for the method. Braided line is widely used for lure and feeder fishing because of its low stretch and sensitivity, while monofilament remains useful for many general, carp and sea-fishing situations. Fly reels should be matched with the correct fly line rating. Protect reels during transport with reel pouches, and use suitable reel oils and maintenance products when required.
