Most of the major tackle manufacturers produce a full line of both saltwater conventional reels and freshwater casting reels. Brand names like Daiwa(R), Shimano(R), Penn(R), Okuma(R) and Accurate(R) continually introduce new lines of high quality conventional reels like the Saltiga, Saltist, Trinidad, Torsa, Tiagra, Torque, International, Twin Drag and many more. Ranging in price from affordable to very expensive, with the proper maintenance and care, the latest conventional fishing reels should provide for many years of fishing enjoyment.
Freshwater casting reels are typically smaller in dimension. Many have a line winder mechanism, which helps guide the fishing line onto the spool in an evenly manner. These are very popular among tournament bass fishing anglers and are commonly referred to as bait cast, bait caster and bait casting reels. The drags of this type of reel is set by turning a knob or sometimes a dial, which resembles a ninja star and is known as the star drag. I prefer to use casting reels when I fish with less than 12lb. test line, as most reels will hold a sufficient amount of line, are super light and are easy to cast.
Saltwater conventional reels are the preferred fishing reel for big-game saltwater fishing and trolling. These reels can easily reach over a thousand dollars, but this type of reel is essential when targeting world record-breaking trophies. Whether it's a one speed or two speed, star drag or lever drag, live bait or trolling reel, using conventional reels requires some practice and knowledge in proper casting techniques to avoid backlashes and tangles. Conventional reels are also ideal when fishing with live bait, as they are meant to be fished in freespool; with the spool of the reel disengaged, allowing the spool to spin with the pull and movement of the fishing line and bait.
Similar to the freshwater casting reel, the saltwater conventional reel comes in a star drag version, with adjustments in drag applied by turning a dial. The lever drag reel is typically bigger and the drags are adjusted by sliding a lever, usually to a strike position that is marked on the reel. This type of fishing reel comes in one speed versions and different gear ratios, which determine the amount of line that is picked up with each turn of the handle. Two speed variations are typically used for bigger fish and trolling and are known as trolling reels. These fishing reels are bulky, heavy and powerful, with lower gear ratios for better cranking ability.
With so many choices in freshwater and saltwater fishing rods and reels, it is important to do your research when purchasing fishing gear and equipment. Knowing the proper name of the equipment that you are researching can save you time and money. I hope that the next time you do an online search for tackle, you would know the difference between a freshwater casting reel and a saltwater conventional reel.
