Spincast Reel Comparison Table

What Is a Spincast Reel and Why Use One?

A spincast reel is considered a beginner reel, or one designed for specific situations. The reel sits on top of the rod, instead of underneath it like a spinning reel. The line flows freely inside the cone-shaped cover from the weight of the line and lure.

When you are first introduced to fishing or have little experience, a spincast reel is ideal. This is true for children and inexperienced fishers, regardless of age. However, spincast reels also serve a unique role in the arsenal of the angler professional.

Spincast reels have a lighter line capacity, can't use as much weight on the line or in the lures, and this makes them ideal for open water fishing and for using a more natural cast. River fishing or in moving water, the splash down won’t startle fish as much, which makes a spincast reel perfect for landing multiple fish in a session.

Buying Guide: Choosing a Quality Spincast Reel

Whether you are buying your first fishing pole, or you are a seasoned pro looking to replace an older spincast reel, it is important to know how to identify a high-quality spincast reel. Below we offer you certain considerations to think about when deciding if a spincast is the right purchase for you.

Type of Fish & Environment

When first deciding which type of reel is the best for you, you should think about the type of fish you are after and where you will be fishing. Spincast reels are ideal for catching panfish in almost any water conditions. This will include your crappie and bluegills. If you are more of a stream or pier fisher, you can use a spincast for many trout species, as well as catfish and small bass.

Construction Quality/Corrosion Resistance

The ideal reel will have high-quality internal components and be built to last—everything from shielded ball bearings to a stainless thumb release. While many pieces are also made of plastic or resin to help keep the cost lower, sometimes a slight bump in price is worth it to get the better gears and winders found inside the reel.

Since the line you reel in will be wet, either with fresh or saltwater, it is essential to purchase a reel that is resistant to corrosion. While this may sound like something natural, there are a lot of cheap reels on the market that won't last a season because of corrosion.

Reel Features

Different reels will offer different features and options. While the majority of spincast reels will have a lot of similarities, it is the smaller things that can make or break your decision. The thumb button quality, for example, is one of the tell-tale signs of a high-quality reel.

Construction materials and assembly quality are also important. Cheaper reels will have lower quality cones, which can easily come off or unscrewed when casting. There are other factors as well, such as the gear ratio (we will cover this in detail later), ease of use, and line glide. Look for a reel that offers you as many features as you can comfortably afford. The more features, the better build the reel will have.

Drag & Brake System

Spincast reels generally have two brake systems in place. Using the front disc pad, an adjustment knob is turned to tighten or loosen this friction pad. The surface area of the front disc is small, and because of the heat, it won't be very accurate for very long with a fish on.

The rear drag is a two-way adjustable disc that is loosened or tightened by the angler as they are fighting the fish. This allows more precision control during the reeling, to help prevent line snaps or the fish pulling too much line.

Ball Bearings

Bearings allow the reel to spin freely, with as little friction as possible. Since friction creates heat and heat creates drag, the wrong bearings can cause line breakage on tougher fights or heavier fish. Open bearings are the fastest and create the least amount of friction. The ball bearings are exposed on top and bottom of the bearing casing. This allows them to roll freely, generating a minimal amount of friction.

Sealed or shielded bearings last longer but have either the top or bottom section shielded off. This creates a little more friction but prevents corrosion or contamination from water or debris. Double-shielded ball bearings have a cap on both ends, so the balls are completely enclosed. This is the slowest bearing, but also the most durable and long-lasting. Finding the right type of ball bearings for your fishing style is important.

Spool Size & Style

If you are buying a spincast reel, you will most likely purchase a skirted reel style. The internal style became outdated in the early 1980s and has quickly become more of a legend than a modern design. Skirted styles help prevent line tangling inside the reel and are easier to maintain, clean out, and wash off. They are more efficient, economical, and better for all anglers, especially beginners.

Line Capacity

Line capacity will vary depending on the type of line you use. Lines have different weights and thicknesses, and your reel will be rated for a certain length of a specific size. If you purchase a reel that can hold 120 yards of a 3-pound test line, it may hold less than 100 yards of a 4-pound line. Knowing the capacities will help you determine which type of line and how much you need to purchase and use.

Anti-Reverse Handles

You will also want to look for a model that has anti-reverse handles. This is a feature that engages the drag and prevents the reel from spinning backward. Of course, back-reeling instead of using the drag is a common tactic used by some anglers. If this is you (or you want to try it), make sure that you purchase a reel that allows you to turn the anti-reverse feature on and off.

Price & Warranty

Obviously, the price is going to matter somewhat. Spincast reels are among the least expensive of all reel styles. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t models out there that cost more than you may expect.

Your reel should be affordable according to your budget, but it should also come with a decent warranty. Most reels will offer a 1-year limited warranty. Finding a more extended warranty is a great sign and should be considered heavily for this factor alone.

1. Zebco 33KPL

Zebo is a name that is instantly recognized by most anglers that have been fishing for more than a week. It is no wonder that the Zebco 33KPL is the best spincast reel and our top pick. An advanced version of the highly popular Zebco 33, the KPL features an all-metal body, using platinum to avoid corrosion and look great sitting on your rod.

Is Zebco a good reel, though? In all truthfulness, Zebco makes fine reels, and the 33KPL is no exception. The durability, low-maintenance, and ease of use only cement the 33-series as one of the best in the market.

One thing a lot of anglers find with the 33KPL, though, is that the thumb button, or trigger, can get stuck. This isn't an uncommon issue with spincast reels and is as simple as twisting the drag adjustment dial. You can fix the drag here as well. The micro-adjustment feature allows you to fine-tune your drag to suit the fish or conditions to suit your needs.

Can you add a braided line to the Zebco 33KPL? Yes, you can, though you will need to go with a larger, thicker line. You can get about 90 feet of a 30# braid wrapped on the spool. Many anglers find that the Draco 30# braided line works well with this reel.

2. Zebco Omega Pro

As you can imagine, with the line up offered and the high quality of the designs, Zebco will have a few entrants on this best-of list. The best rated spincast reel is the Zebco Omega Pro. This sleek designed reel offers you an all-aluminum casing and brass gears designed to withstand most water conditions and won’t corrode easily.

However, for the saltwater fishermen out there, the brass gears will need a bit of extra maintenance when you are cleaning and lubing. Otherwise, regular care and handling is all that is needed. One of the most impressive features is the ability to carry different lines, weights, or diameters on the two quick-change spools.

If you want to change out in the middle of your fishing trip, it takes only a couple of minutes to add the new spool, feed the eyelets and tie new lures. You can go from crappie fishing to bass or catfish without having to change rods or reels.

This durable reel also features 7 bearings to increase the casting speed and distance and improve retrieval with a fish on. Everything functions smooth and true; whether you are right or left hand reeling, the easily adaptable Zebco Omega Pro is a go-to reel for many pros and beginners alike.

3. KastKing Brutus

The KastKing Brutus reel has two things worth noting. First, this reel has one of the easiest, furthest casting abilities around. Most anglers (even beginners) can cast further using this reel than they can with a baitcast reel.

Second, this is the best budget spincast reel on the market. For the price, you would expect a sub-par, “beginners only” type of construction and material. However, what you get is a high-quality, durable, and reliable reel that outperforms others at twice the price.

Of course, there are downsides, too. The most prominent disadvantage is that the Brutus reel uses a steel rotor. While the line catches are stainless, the rotor is not. This means that if it isn’t cared for after every use, corrosion can set in. This makes the maintenance of the reel a little higher than most others, which can be a breaking point for some anglers.

The other negative comes in the thumb-dial drag feature. In theory, the dial allows you to adjust the drag at any time, with up to 11 pounds. However, with the dual-pickup and lack of line slack at all times, the thumb-dial can be challenging to turn when the reel is being used.

The trade-off is a reel that casts further than almost any other, a low price point and virtually no backlash, even after 500 casts. If you want to save money and stay in the high-quality reels, look at the KastKing Brutus. It doesn’t disappoint.

4. Pflueger President

If you want a smooth casting, easy reeling crappie catching monster, the Pflueger President series is for you. There are four sizes to choose from between 2000 and 4000. Each size will add bearings and increase the capacity of the reel for your line. However, when hunting crappie, any of the four sizes will work.

The stand out features here include a durable, rugged, and high-quality build. The all-aluminum casing and core create a lightweight reel that seems to cast over a mile. It doesn't, but you won't believe how far your lure goes when slinging this reel around.

The President series isn’t going to turn heads or even be that noticeable when sitting on your rod, but the fish won't notice either. Pulling crappie out of the water is nearly effortless, and you can catch, unhook and recast in no time.

The Pflueger President reel also uses Teflon washers for friction plates, keeping the weight down while being fully adjustable on the go. The drag is applied directly to the line, so you have little to do but yank and reel. The crappie at your favorite fishing hole won't know what hit them.

5. Daiwa Goldcast Spincast

You want the best, and you want it cheap. We get it. In that case, the Diawa Goldcast reel is the ideal match. This small reel will fit virtually any rod and is perfect for smaller hands, including female anglers and children.

Don’t let the small stature fool you. Casting this reel is a dream come true; the lure and line fly straight, and even wind won't cause backlash during heavy use. However, because of the smaller size, there won't be as much room for your line. The Goldcast works best with 80 yards of 10# test monofilament line, but thicker or heavier lines can be used, just at a lower length.

For the most part, the drop in line distance won’t matter a whole lot, but when you couple that with the lighter lines breaking easier, you may find that you are re-spooling your line more often than with other, larger reels.

With a single bearing, there isn’t much room for difficulty. While it may seem that the single bearing design makes things difficult to cast or reel, the opposite is true. The Daiwa Goldcast is smooth as silk and won’t give you any problems casting, reeling, or maintaining.

6. Zebco ZB310BX3 Bullet

Zebco makes a return to our list with the best spincast reel for bass fishing. The Zebco Bullet (ZB310BX3) is easily the single best spincast model for catching bass in lakes, rivers, and ponds. The Bullet, like the Omega, comes with a second spool, using the Zebco quick-change feature.

So you can swap lines, types, or weights without having to re-spool in the middle of your trip. One thing to note is that the Bullet model doesn’t fare well with braided line. While some do have success with it, the braided line has a lot of backlash and gets tangled on the pickups more than usual.

For the monofilament line, though, the Bullet is as fast as the name implies. Each crank of the retrieve will bring in 29 inches of line! At an incredible 6.1:1 medium gear ratio, the 29” retrieve is astonishing. The whole time, your line stays taught and isn’t as susceptible to breakage.

The 9-bearing system uses a dual-bearing technology on the pickup, making the entire system smooth and comfortable with virtually no friction at all. The 9^th bearing is in the clutch and helps to prevent the trigger from snagging, meaning you get beautiful casts and speedy reels every time.

7. Pflueger Trion

If you like the spinning reel style that sits below your rod, instead of on top of it, the Pflueger Trion is the best underspin spincast reel for you. This spincast reel has a large, easily pulled trigger for easy casting.

Reeling this reel in is also almost effortless. The rotor rotates with the line, making it a suitable underspin reel while still maintaining the ease of use that a spincast model offers you. The cone helps prevent backlash while the two-bearing system keeps things moving smoothly.

The gear ratio is low, so you can maintain control the entire time. It also has a perfectly positioned anti-reverse switch, which allows you to engage or disengage as needed. The drag isn't as easily accessible, and it is better to set the drag before casting. This will help you when reeling the fish in without worrying about losing too much line.

One thing to note is that the bearings can get a little noisy. While other reels will develop problems that cause noisy bearings, the Trion model is just noisy. It doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with the reel. However, if you notice the bearings are starting to grind, then you may need to disassemble the reel to investigate.

8. Zebco 202

If you are looking to get the next generation of anglers hooked (pun intended), the Zebco 202 is the ideal match for all beginners and children alike. The no-bearing system is easy to use and doesn’t offer a lot of features usually found on reels.

The lack of features is done on purpose and isn't' a detraction from the value. Not only is the reel affordable, but it is also ideal for someone who doesn't fish often or has never fished before. The introduction to a rod and reel is made simple with the design and easy system of the 202.

Without bearings, you don't have to worry about drag and adjustments. While any pro angler will need these features, a child casting for the first time will need to learn the basics first. The Zebco 202 is the perfect match for learning fishers and hands that aren't used to the mechanics of casting and reeling yet.

The one downside here is that the 202 is a right-hand only model. So, if your child is left handed, the 202 isn’t going to be a good match. This doesn’t mean that the child can’t use it, but the mechanics may be more awkward doing so.

Comparing Baitcast Vs. Spinning Vs. Spincast Reels

Spincast reels have their advantages, especially for beginners. However, there are two other types of reels that anglers love, the spinning reel and the baitcast reel. How do they compare to the spincast style? Let’s take a look.

Understanding Gear Ratio for Spincasting

Gear ratio is the number of times the line will wrap around the spool for every turn of the handle. Different gear ratios will allow you to better use different baits or lures. It is also beneficial to know your gear ratio for the type of fish you are trying to catch.

Spincast Reel Sizing Guide

Every reel will come with a number (or a few numbers) stamped on them. These 4-digit numbers refer to the amount of line that size reel will hold. The smaller the number is the lighter weight line that the reel will support.

When choosing your reel size, you need to think about the type and weight of the line and bait or lures you plan to use. It also helps to know where you will fish the most with that reel. The water type and conditions will also play a factor in the needed line weight.

How to Set Up & Use a Spincast Reel

Setting up, adding fishing line, and using a spincast reel is a straightforward and generally simple process. Let’s outline each section of the procedure below.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What is the best fishing line for spincast reel?

Arguably the best type of line is monofilament. This line is stretchy, soft and sits in the spool really well. It is also easier to maintain and won’t bunch or weave like braided lines can. The stretch and give of monofilament line allows you to reel smoother and not have to worry about the line tangling inside the spincast reel cone.

How does a spincast drag systems work?

Drag in a spincast reel is nothing more than friction plates that adjust the resistance on the line. When you have a fish on and it pulls, the friction plates slow or stop the line from being pulled out. You can adjust the resistance by rotating the drag dial on the spool, which should be done before casting for the first time of the day. The more resistance, the less line will be released when fighting your fish, but the greater the chance that the line could snap.

Can I use braided line on a spincast reel?

While it isn't generally done, you can use a braided line on a spincast reel. The thinner diameter makes for a more difficult spooling and use. When using braided line, you will need a backer to help prevent the line from slipping.

It is also recommended that your spool have a metal pick up to help casting and reeling. However, be warned that when using braided line, wind can cause a lot of problems and serious knots you will have to deal with.

How do you maintain a spincast reel?

Cleaning and maintaining your reels is a crucial part of the fishing hobby. Spincast reels are generally easy to maintain. You will need to remove them from the rod, disassemble the housing and cone and remove any old line (unless you are keeping it).

Using a soft toothbrush and light soap and water, scrub all the parts of the spool, housing and gears. Rinse under running water and let dry. Use lubricant designed for fishing equipment when you reassemble the reel. For storage, keep the reel in a cool, dry place away from direct sun, heat sources, or moisture.

Who makes the best spincast reels?

The title of best is always going to be subjective. However, when it comes to spincast reels, there are a few names that withstand the test of time, tradition, and consumer reviews. Zebco and Pflueger are among the most purchased and reviewed reels available.

If you are looking to get good quality while saving some money, Shakespeare and Daiwa are among the budget-friendly leaders. Finally, Abu Garcia has a long-standing tradition of high quality spincast reels that many find to be the best of the bunch.

What should I do to prevent backlash when throwing a spincast reel?

Having high-quality reels and the proper line are the first line of defense. You should also try to avoid casting at record distances. If backlash (when the spool keeps spinning after a cast resulting in line tangling) is a problem, you need to check the tension and resistance on your line and ensure that the tie offs aren’t slipping around the spool.

Where can I buy these spincast reels and other reel parts?

Conclusion