Bait cast reel vs a Spinning reel

[Coyotefurharvester]

You can adjust spool speed on most bait casting reels, this will reduce or eliminate bird nests(spool speed revolutions are faster than line through the rod guides)and thumb the spool as you cast. Bait casting into the wind can be a big problem, especially with spoons.
Spinning reels can be problematic if line dia recommendations and types aren't followed. Using a swivel and closing the bail by hand before starting retrieving line will reduce line twist, as will not reeling while line is pulled out against the drag setting.

 

[6BRA]

As stated both have their place. We used Ferry Wands for heavily pressured lakes using light line. 8 lb. They gave an edge at times.

 

[dgeesaman]

I think the major things have been said.

In the medium weight range where spinning and bc tackle overlap, I tend toward spinning myself and switch to BC at 10lb mono or equivalent diameter in braid.

Those digital spool control Shimano BCs are magic. You don’t need to thumb the reel and it works casting into or with the wind. It’s amazing technology if you don’t mind spending the coin. But I’m sure the serious fishermen will scoff at that.

 

[John Beauchamp]

Don't know if cost is a factor for you but good quality bait casters with all the tech are more expensive than spinners. I have about 6 of each plus fly gear. for pure fun bluegills on a fly rig is hard to beat.

 

[majohnson]

Conventional reels have advantages over spinning reels. Conventional reels have increased line capacity, and the way line is retrieved do not end up with line memory issue. Conventional reels do take a smart thumb, or you will end with Backlash. With a lever drag system, usually have a much better drag system.

Coffee Grinders typically lighter gear trains and a less refined drag system. Unless the line is below the curve of the spool front edge, the line comes off in clumps. If you get bit while trying to untangle the mess, you needs to get your fingers out of the way. If you use braided line, it can slice your fingers before you are aware.

 

[CaptainMal]

Spinning reels are for beginners or those wanting to cast far.

For bigger fish, bottom fishing, bass fishing in particular and general use the bait casting reel rules. It does take some practice and experience to use.

 

[JBT47]

Baitcaster all the way if you know how to use one without bird-nesting the spooled line every cast. I still prefer old Abu Garcia Ambassadors and Shimano Calcuttas.

 

[284winner]

Baitcaster all the way if you know how to use one without bird-nesting the spooled line every cast. I still prefer old Abu Garcia Ambassadors and Shimano Calcuttas.

Josh, I still use my 1980s ABU 5500C's. Fully functional and very good reels. I do have some of the latest and greatest but I haven't retired my 5500s

 

[Bill K]

They each have a place in fishing, especially with certain types of lures. But overall, if you can not master the Bait caster reel for smooth and lack of bird nest's in the line, go with a Spinning reel, you will find you will use it 90 % of the overall time fishing.

Why buy one over the other if it is a bait cast reel vs. a spinning reel? Lake/river fishing

 

[Doug Casner]

I used to bass fish. I always used a bait caster. 20 lb. test. Get your drag set and keep your thumb on the spool . Youll learn after a birdnest or two. Set the drag a little tight till ya get used to it youll be fine. No I used to flip with 20 used 12 to cast. Doug

 

[6BRA]

Spinning reels are for beginners or those wanting to cast far.

For bigger fish, bottom fishing, bass fishing in particular and general use the bait casting reel rules. It does take some practice and experience to use.

Wrong.....

 

[rockhound78]

I learned on a Pflueger Supreme BC reel. Lots of bird nests till I figured it out , kind of. Used it for walleye fishing when Grandad and I would go to Minnesota or for catfishing. 20 lb camo braided line.
Spinning reels otherwise, but now have a fly setup I am going to try.

 

[JEFFPPC]

I am a more accurate caster with a spinning reel, my choice.

 

[Fast14riot]

One thing I figured out years ago with baitcaster reels, being right handed I buy left hand reels. No clue why bass fishermen want to trade hands every single cast.

Nice thing about spinning reels, its much easier to change line with just a spool swap. They also cast better on shorter rod lengths if fishing overgrown river banks.

But, like golf clubs and rifles, each has their uses. Sure one can do most, but it won't do everything well.

 

[5spd]

I like my bait casters more than my spinning reels, takes some finess to prevent backlash which can be a nasty mess.

 

[Clancy]

Both, without a doubt

 

[Kittitas George]

Like rockhound78 I learned using a Pflueger Supreme. I also have used many Ambassador's fishing steelhead and salmon. Most of the salmon fishing was in rivers. I'd love to hook a fresh run Silver (Coho)
in a river, no fish fights harder. The secrete to using a BC reel is adjusting the casting drag to the amount of weight the bait and lead have. Use the rod to cast, instead of arm strength, each rod has it's own timing because stiffness and length. I'm not familiar with the newer BC reels, I quit fishing with bait or spoons 40+ years ago and just flyfished. Some of the older Ambassador reels didn't 'match' well with the light weight graphite rods. Also be sure the spool height is manageable for 'thumbing' for more drag casting and fighting a fish. I caught and released many late run Silvers during the Steelhead season. Thanks for the question and the memories my friend.

 

[JFrank]

Bait casters are better if you anneal before you cast.

 

[Castaway]

Both. They have there place and time. Just like shooting a sporter rifle compared to a bench gun. Each one will work. Depending on the task!

 

[dgeesaman]

Bait casters are better if you anneal before you cast.

Fluorocarbon line especially.

Do you have an AMP code for that?