Kayak fishing allows anglers to use a kayak to access remote areas on rivers, lakes and streams. One of the most important pieces of equipment for kayak fishing is the fishing reel. The reel is responsible for retrieving the fishing line during retrieves and is available in a variety of types and styles. The best fishing reels for kayak fishing offer versatility, strength and are easy to use.
Spinning Reels
Spinning reels are characterized by sitting on the bottom of the rod and are casted by pressing and releasing a button to release line from the spool. For kayak fishing, the spinning reels are among the best reels because they are easy to adjust and cast. Dan Armitage from "Wavelength Magazine" chooses spinning reels while kayak fishing because of their adaptability in different fishing situations. If you are trolling for fish, you can quickly make adjustments to the reel with one hand. Some spinning reels are available with waterproof drag systems if you will be in wet conditions.
Casting Reels
Baitcasting reels--located on top of the rod--require the angler to control the spool tension to control how much line leaves the spool during a cast. While kayak fishing, baitcasting reels give you more control of the lure and have the capability of producing longer casts than spinning reels. Ryan Evans from "Canoe & Kayak" prefers baitcasting reels because of their durability and design. The low-profile body makes it easy to store the reel inside the kayak and the side plate makes it easy to access the spool while in a kayak.
Fly Reels
Fly reels are manual, single-action designs that rotate a handle to release the line. If you are interested in using a fly reel while kayak fishing, consider using a fly reel with a solid drag system that can pick up the line quickly. The fly reels allow you to use the water current and wind direction to make bait presentations to the fish. Most fly reels are easy to adjust while in the kayak and the magnetic spool attaches to the reel which prevents the spool from falling into the water. When you use a fly reel for kayak fishing, you will need to anchor the boat as you need both hands to cast and retrieve.
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