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Which reel to choose for pike fishing ?
Just as a car doesn't work without a motor, a baitcasting rod doesn't work without a good reel. It is an essential part of the mechanics! It will allow you to cast your lure, to animate it and to bring your catch back. Among all the existing models on the market, how to choose a reel for pike fishing? Here are the different criteria to take into account.
The type of reel
Spinning or baitcasting reel? Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
The spinning reel
The spinning reel is the most widespread model in France. This means that a wide range of equipment is available for sale. It is a reel with a fixed drum, positioned under the rod. The spool does not rotate, it just swings up and down. A spinning reel is easily identifiable because of its pick-up which has to be opened and closed for each cast.
It is less technical to use and makes it much easier to throw than a baitcasting set which requires more learning and a wider, more precise movement.
Advantages
- The grip is less technical;
- The casting lenght is longer;
- The drag is smoother and more precise;
- It is suitable for handling very light lures;
- It is more versatile;
- The price is more affordable.
Disadvantages
There is no real disadvantage to using a spinning reel other than its weight. Spinning reels are generally heavy, although the latest models have evolved in this direction.
The baitcasting reel
Casting reels are rotating drum reels. Unlike spinning reels, the spool of the reel rotates and a handle acts directly on it without going through various gears. The casting reel is placed on top of the rod.
The learning process is slightly more technical when it comes to baitcasting. In reality, a baitcasting reel works like a winch. The spool rotates freely and kinetic energy is created when casting. If your reel has not been properly adjusted, it's a disaster: a bag of knots appears, the famous "wig"!
However, the power of the cast will make it easier to use heavy lures (even over 100g). We recommend casting for lures that pull on the rod such as spinnerbaits, spoons, crankbaits and jerkbaits.
Advantages
- Although it is more robust, it is lighter than the spinning rod;
- The rod is held in one hand and the wrist is not broken, which is less tiring;
- It is suitable for handling heavy lures;
- The casts are more accurate;
- Control of the line when casting is easier;
- Lures land smoothly due to better line control.
Disadvantages
- Learning is more complicated and sometimes discouraging;
- A new adjustment must be made each time the lure is changed;
- They are more expensive than spinning lures;
- The casting lenght is shorter;
- The handling of light lures is very complicated.
How to choose a baitcasting reel for pike fishing?
What are the criteria for choosing? What really counts, price, weight or size? We give you all the keys to decide.
The brand
The first criteria for choosing a reel is the brand and the price you want to pay.
The fishing brands offer reels that meet these expectations such as Daïwa, Shimano, Okuma, Abu Garcia who are specialists in fishing. The quality is always there, even if Abu Garcia is the best value for money, you can find high end or low end models in almost all brands.
The size
The size of the reel is obviously the first criterion to take into account. It is obvious that the bigger and more powerful the fish you are after, the stronger and more robust the reel you will need. But don't choose a bigger reel and assume that you can handle all species. Think about your comfort and try to be as fair as possible.
The brands we offer (Daïwa, Shimano, Okuma, Mitchell...) use different numbers to determine the size of their reels. So read the description of each model carefully.
The shape
If you opt for a baitcasting reel, you will have to choose between a low profile or a round profile. This is really about the shape of the reel. Low profile baitcasting reels are oval shaped and more ergonomic. They are generally smaller than round profile baitcasting reels and are easier to handle. A round profile baitcasting reel is more robust. Also, you can fill it with more line. This is a big advantage when fishing for large predators such as catfish or pike that require a large diameter of line or braid.
Recovery and ratio
The recovery indicates the amount of yarn wound around the bobbin per cranking revolution. The ratio indicates the number of wraps around the bobbin per cranking revolution. The higher the ratio, the greater the yarn recovery per crank revolution. A slow ratio (between 5.0 and 5.9/1) allows the lure to move more slowly and to be retrieved more gently. A fast ratio (above 7.0/1) allows you to retrieve the lure quickly after the strike. Note that for the same ratio, a spinning reel often has a higher retrieve than a casting reel.
The crank and handle of the reel
The length of the crank has an effect on the effort required to grind. A longer crank will require less effort. On the other hand, the range of motion can be a problem.
The handle is the element that will allow you to put the crank in motion. It can easily be replaced according to your preferences: material, size, shape, etc.
The brake
The brake keeps the thread locked on the spool and releases it when the tension exceeds the maximum power setting. For example, a brake set at 3 kg will hold the thread until the tension on the thread exceeds 3 kg. Beyond that, the line will be released. It is therefore important to set your drag correctly so that it can release the spool before the line breaks. When choosing your reel, take this into account so that you choose a model with a strong enough brake.
Reels for pike fishing
If you want to fish for pike, look for a baitcasting reel. As you are casting relatively large lures, you will gain comfort and have much more control during the fight.
Here are some baitcasting reels for pike fishing.
Our best choice of baitcasting reel for pike
Our choice is:
- Number 1, the 13 fishing Concept A2 reel,
- In second place, the Shimano Curado,
- And third, the Abu Garcia Revo Toro.
The 13 Fishing concept A2 reel is an ultra light and easy to handle low profile. It is strong and powerful with its large line capacity. Its brass control wheel drag system develops an impressive power (25lb / 11kg). It adapts to all lures, with a precise adjustment, whatever their weight, thanks to the Low-Friction braking system. It features 13 Fishing technologies: line guide, quick access side flange, integrated lure hooking device, water evacuation frame.
The shimano CURADO baitcasting reel is comfortable, powerful and easy to handle, yet made from solid and reliable materials.
Its low profile is one of the lightest available. It's versatile, allowing you to fish with different techniques, different lures, and to handle both light lures (X-ship) and big catches thanks to its precision gearing and the foolproof rigidity of its carbon + aluminium material. Its lightweight Magnum Lite spool makes baitcasting more efficient and effortless even at long distances.
The Abu Garcia Revo Toro baitcasting reelfell equally comfortable in the sea or in freshwater. Its large capacity is suitable for big pikes, as well as its robust mechanism, its powerful and precisely adjustable drag system and its powerful gearing to resist fights. Its smooth operation is accompanied by a baitcasting power handle and a curved crank to gain strength when retrieving fish.
You now know all the criteria for choosing a fishing reel for pike. The pike reel is a carnivorous reel. But in order to cope with large specimens, you will need to choose aresistant model.
All you have to do is select the model that suits you best and have fun. Happy fishing!
Crédit Photo Istock.com
