Fishing reels and replacement spools

Fixed drum, casting or trolling: three families

The fixed drum reel, placed under the rod, is the most common: during casting, the line unwinds freely over the stationary spool, with no risk of tangling. The Savage Gear Fazor, made with a carbon-reinforced composite body, is an example for lure fishing. The casting reel, mounted above the rod, has a spool that spins when casting: it's more precise with heavier lures, requiring a practiced thumb. At Shimano, a model number ending with a indicates a left-handed model, like the Curado M offered here. The trolling reel, such as the Okuma Classic Pro, shows the length of line released thanks to its counter.

The rest of the equipment

The rod equipment also varies:

• Rods.
• Supports.
• Detection.
• No kill.

All the equipment is gathered on the rods page.

Size and drag: matching the reel to your fishing

The size of a reel, indicated by a number, represents the capacity of its spool. Small sizes are suitable for trout and light lures, medium sizes for feeder and predator fishing in rivers, like the Preston Extremity. Large reels with wide, conical spools, known as big pit, such as the Shimano Ultegra XTE, can cast far in carp and surfcasting thanks to a very slow oscillation that arranges the line in tight coils. The drag, set to about a third of the line's resistance, lets the line run when a fish pulls: it's set before fishing, then adjusted during the fight.

Spare spools: change line in seconds

A spare spool allows you to switch from one line to another without dismantling the rig: a nylon for fishing close to the edge, a filled spool for distance, a stronger line when the weeds get closer. The Korum Zelos Distance, shallow version, avoids loading the spool with dozens of meters of unnecessary line and favours long casts. The Matrix spools and the Sonik refill fit their original reels: it's essential to check the exact compatibility of the model before purchasing. Fill the spool to one or two millimetres from the edge, to cast far without tangling the line.

Good deals

Great bargains can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and articles shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, year-end festivities, winter sales, spring's French Days, then summer sales and back to school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which reel to choose for lure fishing?

A medium-sized, lightweight, smooth fixed drum reel covers most lure fishing in rivers and ponds. The casting reel, more precise with heavy lures, appeals to experienced predator anglers who often cast in the same spot.

Which reel for sea fishing?

Choose a sturdy, large reel with a powerful drag and corrosion-protected bearings. Rinse it with fresh water after each outing and dry it, as salt attacks internal parts within a few weeks.

Front drag or rear drag reel?

The front drag, located in the spool, is more progressive and powerful, ideal for large fish. The rear drag, accessible at the back of the reel, is easily adjusted during a fight without letting go of the rod.

What does the gear ratio of a reel mean?

The ratio indicates how many turns the pick-up or spool makes for one turn of the handle. A high ratio quickly retrieves the line, useful for animating a fast lure; a low ratio offers more power for larger fish and trolling.

How to maintain your fishing reel?

After each outing, rinse it with warm water, dry it, and loosen the drag to avoid crushing the washers. A drop of oil on the shafts and a bit of grease on the gears, once or twice a year, extend its lifespan.