Conventional reels are very similar to bait casting models in a variety of ways, but the differences between the two are what fishermen use to pick between them when fishing freshwater or saltwater. The two are very different from spinning reels, but are nearly the same when compared against each other. Some novices wonder if it is even possible to tell the difference between them. While some can be used primarily for either application, most non-spinning reels were meant in an either/or capacity: either vertical or cast.

You should start by learning how they’re the same. Each has a spool axis that is perpendicular to the rod that it is mounted to. A spool is designed to spin when you cast or release the line. This is so the line is released smoothly, because the spool is what releases the line. On a spinning reel, the axis runs parallel to its rod, and holds the line still during your cast. The line is released in loop fashion before it even hits that first guide.

Bait casting and conventional reels each have a crank handle on the side of their reel, and these can be customized for right or left-hand use. Both also have a level-wind feature, which is a moving guide that runs up the front of the reel. As the line is released or reeled in, the guide traverses the spool, ensuring that the line is wound evenly instead of allowing it to gather on one side or the other of your spool.

Now, bait casters are built to maintain their best performance, meaning smooth release of the line and a safety against every fisherman’s nightmare—backlash. Most manufacturers use magnets or even centrifugal brakes to help avoid this backlash. Backlash is a common problem, happening when the lure/bait hits the water, stopping suddenly. However, the spool is still spinning, and it quickly winds itself back over its spool. Most fishermen hate this “bird’s nest” effect, but novices see it often. These reels (meant for saltwater) usually include such models as Saltiga’s Surf, Abu Garcia’s C3, the SX by AVET, and Shimano’s Calcutta, among others.

Conventional reels are more suitable for dragging fish toward your boat efficiently. The in-line alignment of this reel makes sure that all of the stress of reeling in big fish is on the fish instead of the parts of your equipment. Since they require less effort, these reels are often more comfortable, and they are designed to work well with trolls, live lining, three-ways, and jigs, like the Charter Special (Shimano), Sealine (Daiwa), and, the friend of every fisherman, the 114 and/or 113 by Penn.

There are surely a wide variety of reels on the market, so of the most popular reels include: Penn 975 Reel and Daiwa Sealine 30.