When most people take up fishing for their first time, they are often given a rod and reel as a gift or they purchase a rod and reel combo that has already been matched up by the manufacturer. Most pre-matched combos are designed for introductory fishing purposes and do not excel in quality but they do the job just fine for the novice. But, as an angler becomes more obsessed with fishing, the need for a larger arsenal of rods and reels increases. This is the time when the knowledge of how to properly match up a rod and reel combo becomes important.
What kind of reel do you want?
Conventional reels are used for bait casting, trolling or bluewater fishing. Typical line weights range from 10lb. for bait casting all the way to 130lb. for big ocean species.
Spinning reels are used for many different fishing styles and for lighter lures. Line weights used on spinning reels vary from as little as 4lbs to approx. 25-30lbs. Spinning reels can be designated for ranges, e.g., 2 to 8lb., 8 to 15lb., and 15 to 30lb. test.
