Weight & Size
- Like rods, reels are often rated by weight or size. When looking for a new reel you will want to match the reel size to your rod for a correctly balanced outfit; for example, if you’re fishing a 5-weight trout rod, you’ll want to pair it with a 5-weight reel.
- Also consider when looking at reel size are the type of line you will be using and backing capacity. Backing capacity is even more important when choosing a saltwater reel. Most reels can handle 2 to 3 sizes of line. For example a size 6wt reel can handle a 5,6 or 7wt line.
- Switch and Spey reels are oversize to accommodate larger shooting head fly lines, while saltwater reels often feature more backing capacity as those fish are prone to long runs.