How it works
These are the parts of a spinning reel on one reel hanging under a length of rod. Start with the 4 main parts, then the line, then the body and how it mounts.
Read the full guide
Casting and winding
To cast, the bail is swung open so the line can run freely off the front of the spool. On the retrieve you turn the handle, and the turning bail picks up the line, running it over the line roller and back onto the spool.
Holding a fish
The drag knob on the front sets how hard a fish must pull before line slips out. The anti-reverse lever stops the handle turning backwards.
- Spinning reels are also called fixed-spool reels: the spool stays still while the turning bail wraps the line round it.
Questions and answers
What is the bail on a spinning reel?
The wire arm that swings round the spool. Open, it lets line spill off to cast; closed, it guides the line back onto the spool as you turn the handle.
What does the drag do on a spinning reel?
It lets line slip off the spool when a fish pulls hard enough, so the line does not snap. The knob on the front of the spool sets how hard.
What is the reel foot?
The flat bar at the top of the reel's support arm. It slides into the reel seat on the rod and is clamped there.