Surf Cranking Reel - Hardbaits for Surf Fishing
December 18, 2008 by Sinjin Kim
There are hundreds of reels to choose from on the market today and deciding on a reel that is ideal for a specific style of fishing can be challenging.
The question that is on the minds of many surf fishing enthusiasts is what reel is best suited for casting Lucky Craft type hard baits in the surf? Below, I will explain some key features and benefits to look for when deciding on a “surf cranking” reel.
Gear Ratio: I first try to narrow down the field by looking for a slower 5:1 gear ratio versus more commonly found 6.3:1 and the ever so popular 7:1 gear ratio models. Why 5:1? Well, here are some benefits:
- Prevents overworking a lure.
- Easier to turn the handle on larger fish.
- Allows for an angler to effectively retrieve with a constant tempo.
Line Capacity: The spool size and design is something to consider. “Wiffle” spools are lighter, casts better and although they were once a spool used for smaller profiled reels, manufacturers such as Shimano are now implenting these types of spools in larger baitcasting reels which enables a reel to cast further, hold more line and weigh less. I look for a reel that is capable of holding approximately 150 yards of 10# test.
Bearings: I strongly encourage spending the extra money and purchasing a reel that is equipped with high quality bearings. Saltwater is highly corrosive and will make short work of reels that do not have corrosion resistant features. Some terms to look for are: A-RB (anti-rust bearing) and Shielded Stainless Steel BB.
Drags: This is one of my biggest concerns when I am out fishing. Is my drag functionally smoothly? Without a smooth drag, an angler has a greater chance of losing a hard pulling fish. The powerful surge of the surf’s environment and suction power of receding water will test even the most seasoned veteran. When larger fish are hooked, it is imperative to pull in fish with harmony of the surf’s breaks. When an attempt to “beach” a fish fails, the drawing power of the receding surf will apply tremendous force on your reel/line. During these moments, it is especially important to back off the drag and allow the surf to pull the fish back into the main body of water. If a drag is not functionally properly, two things usually occur: the hook will get ripped out the fish’s mouth or your line with break.
Reel Handle: Within a couple casts of the reel, the handle will become wet. Add the mist that is sprayed by the surf’s break and an angler will have somewhat of a slippery task at hand. I’ve used reels without a “non-slip” reel handle and more times than none, it has caused my fingers to slip off the handle when a fish struck my lure resulting in loss of the fish.
Side Plate Access: Whenever I get done with fishing, I first tighten the drag to prevent any possible moisture from entering the drag assembly and spray (mist) my reel thoroughly with fresh water. Water will enter and collect in the side plate and around the sides of the spool. It is important to dry off any left over water to prevent metal deposits from collecting/adhering to any parts of the reel. For these reasons, I look for a reel that has easy access to the side plate.
Round or Low Profile: The choice is yours. We all have hands that are shaped differently. I personally can’t palm a basketball and the use of a low profile reel adds for comfort when making repeated casts. I would recommend attaching a reel you are planning to purchase with the rod the reel is intended for and get a feel for the set-up.
Worm Gear: Many baitcasting reels have worm gears that are overly exposed. Since we are fishing from the sand, I feel it is important to have a worm gear assembly that is protected from any sand that may “fly” and get imbedded into the worm gear assembly. Worm gears must be lubricated properly to prevent any metal to metal friction. Since lubrication is “sticky,” having a worm gear that is covered/protected will greatly reduce the chance of any sand deposits from adhering to the assembly.
Here are some reels I would strongly consider:
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