Similar to fishing rods, there are also many differences in reels. Here, too, they depend on the target fish, the type of water and the fishing method. In addition to universal reels for almost all domestic fish species, there are also specialist reels such as spinning reels, multi-reels, sea reels and free-running reels.
Most reels are offered with at least 6 ball bearings. However, the number is not as important as it may seem. It is in fact a sales argument of the manufacturers, who are constantly outbidding each other. As a rule, 3 - 4 ball bearings are sufficient. What is more important is that a proper metal gear is installed and that aluminum or brass is used instead of plastic.
Saltwater suitability is particularly important for fishing in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. You can certainly fish for cod or sea trout with a reel that can land a pike or eel. But some reels are simply not saltwater-compatible. It's amazing how quickly salt water can destroy a reel. But who wants to dismantle the reel after every cod fishing trip on the Baltic Sea to clean it? The only remedy is a sea reel with a sealed or waterproof housing. But even these reels should at least be rinsed with warm water after use and maintained at regular intervals depending on use, i.e. cleaned and oiled or greased.
In terms of price, it can be said that there are suitable rollers for every budget. Some prices start at less than EUR 20. Even well-known manufacturers often offer high discounts, especially on discontinued models. However, like everywhere else, cheap castors are not so cheap for no reason. The quality often suffers. In my experience, you can get very good castors for around EUR 50.
Spinning reel
Spinning reels should be small, smooth-running and lightweight, as the constant cranking and casting must not be too strenuous. Nevertheless, it must be powerful enough to be able to land a larger pike. As precise guiding of the lure and immediate power transmission when striking are very important, the reel must not have any play between the forward movement and stop, i.e. it must be equipped with an infinite backstop. Furthermore, rigid, non-stretch braided lines support direct contact with the lure or fish.
Freewheel reel
Free-running reels are characterized by the fact that the fish can take line even when the bail is folded over. The degree of free-running can usually be adjusted according to the local conditions (current). The function is promptly interrupted by turning the crank and you can start the fight. These reels are particularly suitable for carp fishing, i.e. bottom fishing. The line is kept under tension in the rod pod and yet the carp can easily swim away with the bait. Due to this special function, they are somewhat more expensive than normal reels. In my opinion, however, the higher price is justified as the free spool is very practical and offers real added value. Free spool reels are now available with an integrated bite indicator.
Multi-reel
The robust, maintenance-free multi-reels have been developed primarily for landing powerful fish from great depths. They are therefore mostly used for fishing on the Baltic Sea or in seas in general. However, they are also becoming increasingly popular with spin fishermen. Unlike fixed spool reels, the line is wound directly onto the spool and not always around the spool. This results in a more direct, more intensive contact with the fish. Nevertheless, they are not easy to handle. Casting requires a lot of experience, as the line does not simply unwind from the spool, but the spool always turns with it. This can often lead to line tangles. It is ideal if you simply have to let the lure out, e.g. when trolling.
Surf roll
Reels for surf fishing in the Baltic Sea are often very large reels with a high gear ratio. This is because it is important to pump the fish ashore quickly. This should not be underestimated for experienced surf anglers over such a long distance. Furthermore, the reel must be able to cover the distance of approx. 100 m, i.e. the line must be able to be unwound cleanly. The most important requirement, however, is resistance to salt water. Beach sand must also not be able to penetrate the inside of the reel.
You can find all products on this topic here: Fishing reels!