Best Closed Face Fishing Reel in 2023: An In-depth Review

Looking for the best closed face fishing reel for your next fishing trip? I understand how frustrating it can be to find theperfect one, especially with so many brand options in the market.

In this guide, we will review the top 7 closed face fishing reels for 2023, comparing their features, specifications, pros, and cons. We will also explain how a closed face fishing reel works, what are the different components and features of a closed face reel, and how to properly maintain and use a closed face fishing reel.

So let’s get started!

What Is the Best Closed Face Fishing Reel in 2023?

Now that we have learned about the basics, let’s find out what the best closed face fishing reel for 2023 is. We will review each of them in detail, comparing their features, specifications, pros and cons.

If you’re in a rush, here are the contenders for the top closed face fishing reel in the market.

Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel

Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel

Pflueger President Spincast Reel

Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel

Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel

Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel

Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel

Now, let’s delve into them and examine them thoroughly.

1. Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel

If you are looking for the best closed face fishing reel, you should definitely check out the Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 30 Reel. This reel is a top-notch choice for anglers who want a smooth, powerful, and reliable spincast reel that can handle any fishing situation.

The Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel has many features that make it stand out from the crowd. It has an aluminum body and covers that are durable and lightweight. It has a 7-bearing drive system that ensures smooth and effortless casting and retrieving. It has an instant anti-reverse clutch that prevents backlash and gives you more control over your fish. It has a triple-cam dial-adjustable disk drag that lets you fine-tune the tension according to the conditions. It has a quick-change spool system that allows you to switch between different line sizes and types easily. It also comes with a spare spool and an extra dual-paddle handle for more versatility.

The Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel is ideal for targeting heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, and striper. It has a mono capacity of 85/6, which means it can hold 85 yards of 6-pound monofilament line. It has a retrieve rate of 19 inches per turn, which means it can bring in your catch fast and efficiently. It also has a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve option, which means it can suit any preference or style.

The Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a high-performance spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a one-year warranty from Zebco, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Smooth and powerful 7-bearing drive system
• Durable and lightweight aluminum body and covers
• Instant anti-reverse clutch for more control
• Triple-cam dial-adjustable disk drag for fine-tuning
• Quick-change spool system for versatility
• Spare spool and extra dual-paddle handle included
• Ideal for heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, and striper
• Changeable right- or left-hand retrieve option
• One-year warranty from Zebco

Cons:

• More expensive than some other spincast reels
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: Size 30 Reel
• Brand: Zebco
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Color: Black
• Material: Aluminum
• Fishing Technique: Spincast
• Item Weight: 1 Pounds
• Special Feature: Anti Reverse

2. Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel

The Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel is a classic spincast reel that has been trusted by many anglers for decades. This reel is a great choice for beginners and experts alike who want a simple, reliable, and durable spincast reel that can handle any fishing situation.

The Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel has many features that make it a high-quality spincast reel. It has a strong aluminum body that can withstand wear and tear. It has a cross-bobbin winding system that delivers flat line lay, which means it can cast farther and smoother than other spincast reels. It has a smooth and even drag system that can handle big fish without breaking or slipping. It also has a tungsten carbide line pickup that is corrosion-resistant and long-lasting.

The Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel is ideal for spinning and casting techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a right-hand retrieve option, which means it can fit most anglers’ needs. It has a mono capacity of 80/10, which means it can hold 80 yards of 10-pound monofilament line. It has a gear ratio of 4.1:1, which means it can retrieve 21.3 inches of line per turn, which is fast enough for most fishing scenarios.

The Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a classic spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a manufacturer warranty from Daiwa, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Strong and durable aluminum body
• Cross-bobbin winding system for flat line lay
• Smooth and even drag system for big fish
• Tungsten carbide line pickup for corrosion resistance
• Ideal for spinning and casting techniques
• Right-hand retrieve option
• Manufacturer warranty from Daiwa

Cons:

• No spare spool or extra handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: One Size
• Brand: Daiwa
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand
• Color: Black
• Material: Synthetic
• Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting
• Item Weight: 0.65 Pounds
• Special Feature: Lightweight

3. Pflueger President Spincast Reel

The Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel is a spincast reel that offers performance and value in one package. This reel is a great choice for anglers who want a smooth, easy, and reliable spincast reel that can handle any fishing situation.

The Pflueger President Spincast Reel has many features that make it the best closed face fishing reel. It has an aluminum frame and cone with dual titanium pins that are durable and lightweight. It has a handle and soft touch knob that are comfortable and suitable for right/left handed anglers. It has a spool applied dial drag system with a max drag of 6lb that can help you fight the fish and adjust the tension according to the conditions. It also has a 5 ball bearing system plus multi-stop reverse system that ensures smooth operation and prevents backplay.

The Pflueger President Spincast Reel is ideal for spincast techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a mono capacity of 145/4 90/6 70/8, which means it can hold enough line for optimal casting distance and accuracy. It has a gear ratio of 3.1:1, which means it can retrieve 14.5 inches of line per turn, which is fast enough for most fishing scenarios.

The Pflueger President Spincast Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a performance and value spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a manufacturer warranty from Pflueger, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Durable and lightweight aluminum frame and cone
• Comfortable handle and soft touch knob
• Spool applied dial drag system for fine-tuning
• Smooth 5 ball bearing system plus multi-stop reverse system
• Ideal for spincast techniques
• Manufacturer warranty from Pflueger

Cons:

• No spare spool or extra handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: Clam
• Brand: Pflueger
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Color: Multicolor
• Material: Blend
• Fishing Technique: Spincast
• Item Weight: 0.64 Pounds
• Special Feature: Lightweight

4. Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel

The Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 20 Reel is a spincast reel that offers seriously smooth performance and durability. This reel is a great choice for anglers who want a premium spincast reel that can cast like a dream and handle any fishing situation.

It has an all-metal construction that can withstand wear and tear. It has an aluminum and double anodized front cover that is sleek and sturdy. It has an oscillating quick-change spool system that allows you to switch between different line sizes and types easily. It also comes with a spare spool for more convenience.

The Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel has a patented no-tangle design that makes it easier for both beginners and experienced anglers to use. It has an instant anti-reverse clutch that stops your reel handle from moving backwards and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of the fish. It has a changeable right or left-hand retrieve option that can suit any preference or style. It also comes pre-spooled with 6-pound of Zebco line so you’re ready to fish sooner.

The Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel is ideal for spinning and casting techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a mono capacity of 85/6, which means it can hold enough line for optimal casting distance and accuracy. It has a gear ratio of 3.4:1, which means it can retrieve 14 inches of line per turn, which is fast enough for most fishing scenarios.

The Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a premium spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a one-year warranty from Zebco, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Durable and sleek all-metal construction
• Aluminum and double anodized front cover
• Oscillating quick-change spool system
• Spare spool included
• Patented no-tangle design
• Instant anti-reverse clutch for more control
• Changeable right or left-hand retrieve option
• Pre-spooled with 6-pound of Zebco line
• One-year warranty from Zebco

Cons:

• No dual-paddle handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: Size 20 Reel
• Brand: Zebco
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Color: Multi
• Material: Blend
• Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting
• Item Weight: 265 Grams
• Special Feature: Anti Reverse

5. Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel

The Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 30 Reel is another contestant for the best closed face fishing reel thanks to its speed and performance. This reel is a great choice for anglers who want a fast spincast reel that can cast like a bullet and handle any fishing situation.

The Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel has many features that make it a superior spincast reel. It has an all-metal construction that can withstand wear and tear. It has a forged aluminum and double anodized front cover that is sleek and sturdy. It has an oscillating quick-change spool system that allows you to switch between different line sizes and types easily. It also comes pre-spooled with 10-pound of Zebco line so you’re ready to fish sooner.

The Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel has a revolutionary ZeroFriction dual-bearing supported pick-up pin design that makes it easier for both beginners and experienced anglers to use. It has an instant anti-reverse clutch that stops your reel handle from moving backwards and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of the fish. It has a changeable right or left-hand retrieve option that can suit any preference or style. It also has a dial-adjustable drag system that can help you fight the fish and adjust the tension according to the conditions.

The Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel is ideal for spincast techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a mono capacity of 90/10, which means it can hold enough line for optimal casting distance and accuracy. It has a gear ratio of 5.1:1, which means it can retrieve 29.6 inches of line per turn, which is the fastest among all spincast reels.

The Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a speed and performance spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a one-year warranty from Zebco, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Fast and durable all-metal construction
• Sleek and sturdy forged aluminum and double anodized front cover
• Oscillating quick-change spool system
• Pre-spooled with 10-pound of Zebco line
• Revolutionary ZeroFriction dual-bearing supported pick-up pin design
• Instant anti-reverse clutch for more control
• Changeable right or left-hand retrieve option
• Dial-adjustable drag system for fine-tuning
• One-year warranty from Zebco

Cons:

• No spare spool or extra handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: Size 30 Reel
• Brand: Zebco
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Color: Black
• Material: Blend
• Fishing Technique: Spincast
• Item Weight: 1.1 Pounds
• Special Feature: Anti Reverse

6. Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 80 Reel is a spincast reel that offers toughness, durability and dependability. This reel is a great choice for anglers who want a large spincast reel that can handle big fish and heavy line.

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel has many features that make it a quality spincast reel. It has an all-metal gear system that can withstand wear and tear. It has a ceramic pick-up pin that is durable and corrosion-resistant. It has a dial-adjustable magnum drag system that can help you fight the fish and adjust the tension according to the conditions. It also comes pre-spooled with 20-pound of Zebco line so you’re ready to fish sooner.

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel has a built-in bite alert that makes it easier for both beginners and experienced anglers to use. It has a quick-set anti-reverse system that stops your reel handle from moving backwards and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of the fish. It has a changeable right or left-hand retrieve option that can suit any preference or style. It also has a patented no-tangle design that prevents line twists and snarls.

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel is ideal for spincast techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a mono capacity of 145/20, which means it can hold enough line for optimal casting distance and accuracy. It has a gear ratio of 2.6:1, which means it can retrieve 19 inches of line per turn, which is fast enough for most fishing scenarios.

The Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a tough, durable and dependable spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a one-year warranty from Zebco, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Tough and durable all-metal gear system
• Durable and corrosion-resistant ceramic pick-up pin
• Dial-adjustable magnum drag system for fine-tuning
• Pre-spooled with 20-pound of Zebco line
• Built-in bite alert
• Quick-set anti-reverse system for more control
• Changeable right or left-hand retrieve option
• Patented no-tangle design
• One-year warranty from Zebco

Cons:

• No spare spool or extra handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: Size 80 Reel (Clam Pkg)
• Brand: Zebco
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Color: Black
• Material: Blend
• Fishing Technique: Spincast
• Item Weight: 1.23 Pounds
• Special Feature: Anti Reverse

7. Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel

The Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel, Size 10 Reel is a spincast reel that offers simplicity and performance in one package. This reel is a worthy contestants for the best closed face fishing reel because it handle any fishing situation.

The Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel has a few features that make it a quality spincast reel. It has an aluminum cone and handle that are durable and lightweight. It has a 2 bearing system that ensures smooth and easy casting and retrieving. It has dual titanium pins that are strong and long-lasting. It also has a spool applied drag system that can help you fight the fish and adjust the tension according to the conditions.

The Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel is ideal for casting techniques, which means it can suit any fishing style or preference. It has a mono capacity of 90/8, which means it can hold enough line for optimal casting distance and accuracy. It has a gear ratio of 3.8:1, which means it can retrieve 15.5 inches of line per turn, which is fast enough for most fishing scenarios.

The Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel is the best closed face fishing reel because it offers a simplicity and performance spincast experience that is unmatched by any other reel. It is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and fun to fish with. It is backed by a warranty by manufacturer from Pflueger, which shows their confidence in their product. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will love fishing with this reel.

Pros:

• Durable and lightweight aluminum cone and handle
• Smooth 2 bearing system
• Strong and long-lasting dual titanium pins
• Spool applied drag system for fine-tuning
• Warranty by manufacturer from Pflueger

Cons:

• No spare spool or extra handle included
• May not be compatible with some rods

Product specifications:

• Style: 10
• Brand: Pflueger
• Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
• Colour: Silver
• Material: Aluminum
• Fishing Technique: Casting
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 7 x 6.25 x 3 inches

What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Closed Face Fishing Reel?

When choosing the best closed face fishing reel, consider the following key factors:

1. Target Species and Fishing Techniques

Choose a closed face fishing reel that matches the species of fish you plan to target and the fishing techniques you intend to use. Closed face reels are ideal for smaller fish in shallow water with light tackle due to their reduced drag and friction. They are easier to handle for beginners and provide a more straightforward casting process with the press of a button. However, for larger or more powerful fish in deep water with heavy tackle, other types of fishing reels like open-faced reels might be more suitable as they offer more control and precision during casting and retrieval.

2. Construction Materials and Durability

Look for a closed face fishing reel made from high-quality materials that strike a balance between weight and strength. Metal reels are generally more durable but tend to be heavier. On the other hand, plastic and carbon reels offer varying trade-offs in weight and durability. Consider your fishing needs and preferences to select a reel that is sturdy enough to handle the demands of your fishing adventures while not being too heavy to affect your comfort and maneuverability.

3. Gear Ratio and Line Retrieval Speed

The gear ratio of the closed face reel determines the speed of line retrieval. A higher gear ratio means faster retrieval but less power. For example, a reel with a gear ratio of 6.2:1 retrieves the line faster compared to a 5.2:1 ratio. Choose the gear ratio that best suits your fishing style and target species. Additionally, the spool diameter also influences the line retrieval speed, so factor that in when making your choice.

4. Ball Bearings and Smoothness of Operation

Opt for a closed face fishing reel with sufficient high-quality ball bearings for smooth and quiet operation. The number of ball bearings matters, as more bearings generally contribute to smoother operation. However, the quality of the bearings is more crucial than the quantity. High-quality ball bearings reduce friction, improve casting and reeling performance, and enhance the overall longevity of the reel.

5. Drag System and Adjustability

The drag system in a closed face reel controls the tension on the line when fighting a fish. It is essential to choose a reel with a smooth and adjustable drag system to handle different fishing situations. The ability to adjust the drag allows you to set the appropriate resistance according to the size and strength of the fish you are targeting. A reliable drag system ensures that you can tire out the fish without risking line breaks or rod damage.

6. Line Capacity and Compatibility

Consider the line capacity of the closed face reel, which determines how much fishing line it can hold. Choosing the right line capacity is important to ensure you have enough line to handle potential long runs by the fish. Select a reel size that suits your fishing needs and the target species you plan to catch. Additionally, ensure that the reel is compatible with the type and size of fishing line you prefer to use, be it monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided line.

7. Ergonomics and Comfort

Look for a closed face fishing reel with an ergonomic design and comfortable features. A well-balanced and lightweight reel with a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls will enhance your fishing experience and reduce fatigue during prolonged fishing sessions. An ergonomic reel design allows for smooth casting, retrieval, and handling, making it easier to focus on your fishing technique and enjoy your time on the water.

Tips for Maintenance and Care of Closed Face Fishing Reels

Now that you got the best closed face fishing reel, here are some tips for cleaning, lubricating, storing, and checking it.

Cleaning And Lubrication Of Reel Components

Cleaning and lubricating your reel components regularly can prevent dirt, corrosion, and wear from affecting the performance of your reel. To clean your reel, you will need a soft cloth, a small brush, some mild soap, and fresh water. To lubricate your reel, you will need some reel oil or grease.

• First, remove the spool cover and the spool from the reel body. Wipe them with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

• Next, use a small brush to gently scrub the inside of the spool cover and the reel body with some mild soap and fresh water. Rinse them thoroughly and dry them with a soft cloth.

• Then, apply a few drops of reel oil or grease to the spool shaft, the pick-up pin, the gears, the bearings, and any other moving parts of the reel. Do not over-lubricate as this can attract more dirt and reduce the efficiency of your reel.

• Finally, reassemble the spool and the spool cover to the reel body. Make sure they are aligned correctly and spin smoothly.

Storage and Protection Against the Elements

Storage and protection against the elements can extend the lifespan of your closed face fishing reels. To store and protect your reels, you will need a dry and cool place, some protective covers or cases, and some silica gel packets.

• First, remove the fishing line from your reels before storing them for a long time. This can prevent the line from stretching or breaking due to tension or temperature changes.

• Next, place your reels in protective covers or cases that can shield them from dust, moisture, sunlight, and impact. You can use cloth bags, plastic boxes, or padded cases for this purpose.

• Then, add some silica gel packets to your covers or cases to absorb any excess moisture that may cause rust or mold on your reels.

• Finally, store your reels in a dry and cool place away from heat sources or direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in humid or damp places such as basements or garages.

Regular Inspections and Scheduled Maintenance

Routine checks and maintenance schedule can help you detect and fix any problems with your closed face fishing reels before they affect your fishing experience. To check and maintain your reels, you will need some basic tools such as a screwdriver, a plier, and a flashlight.

• First, check your reels before every fishing trip for any signs of damage or malfunction such as cracks, dents, loose parts, or abnormal noises. If you find any issues, repair them as soon as possible or replace the faulty parts with new ones.

• Next, check your reels after every fishing trip for any dirt or water that may have entered the reel during use. If you find any dirt or water, clean and dry your reel as described above.

• Then, check your reels every few months for any wear or tear that may have occurred over time due to friction or corrosion. If you find any wear or tear, lubricate your reel as described above.

• Finally, check your reels once a year for any major problems that may require professional service or replacement such as broken gears, bent shafts, or seized bearings. If you find any major problems, take your reel to a qualified technician or dealer for repair or replacement.

How to Properly Cast and Use a Closed Face Fishing Reel

Proper use of a closed face fishing reel requires some practice and technique to achieve accurate and smooth casts. Here are some steps for casting and using it.

Step-By-Step Guide to Casting with a Closed Face Reel

Casting with a closed face reel is similar to casting with a spinning reel except that you use a push button instead of an open bail to release the line.

• First, hold the rod in your dominant hand with the reel facing up and the push button facing down. Place your thumb on the push button and press it down firmly to lock the line in place.

• Next, bring the rod back over your shoulder until it forms an angle of about 45 degrees with your body. Keep your eyes on your target area where you want to cast.

• Then, swing the rod forward smoothly and quickly while releasing the push button at the end of your forward motion. The line will come out through the eyelet on the spool cover and fly towards your target.

• Finally, close the push button by pressing it down again once the lure or bait lands on the water. This will stop the line from coming out and prevent backlash or tangles.

Proper Handling and Control of the Line

Handling and controlling the line with a closed face reel is similar to handling and controlling the line with a spinning reel except that you use a dial or a lever instead of a drag knob to adjust the tension on the line.

• First, set the dial or the lever on the side of the reel to a moderate level of tension that matches the weight and strength of your line. This will allow you to fight and land fish without breaking the line or losing the fish.

• Next, hold the rod in your dominant hand with the reel facing up and the push button facing down. Place your index finger on the line above the eyelet on the spool cover. This will give you more control over the line and help you feel any bites or strikes.

• Then, reel in the line by turning the handle on the side of the reel clockwise. Keep your rod tip up and your line tight to avoid slack or sagging. If you feel a bite or a strike, set the hook by lifting your rod tip sharply and firmly.

• Finally, fight and land the fish by reeling in the line while keeping your rod tip up and your line tight. If the fish pulls hard or runs away, loosen the dial or the lever slightly to let out some line and reduce the pressure on the line. If the fish stops or comes closer, tighten the dial or the lever slightly to bring in some line and increase the pressure on the line.

Techniques for Various Fishing Scenarios

Using a closed face reel can be effective for various fishing scenarios such as fishing for panfish, bass, trout, catfish, or walleye. Here are some techniques for using a closed face reel for different fishing scenarios.

• For fishing for panfish such as bluegill, crappie, or perch, use a light or ultralight rod with a 4 to 6 pound test line and a small closed face reel. Use small lures such as jigs, spinners, spoons, or worms as bait. Cast near weed beds, docks, brush piles, or other cover where panfish like to hide. Retrieve your lure slowly and steadily with occasional pauses or twitches to attract their attention.

• For fishing for bass such as largemouth, smallmouth, or spotted bass, use a medium or medium-heavy rod with a 8 to 12 pound test line and a medium-sized closed face reel. Use medium-sized lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater plugs, or soft plastics as bait. Cast near structure such as rocks, logs, stumps, or vegetation where bass like to ambush their prey. Retrieve your lure fast and erratic with frequent changes in direction or speed to trigger their aggression.

• For fishing for trout such as rainbow, brown, or brook trout, use a light or medium-light rod with a 6 to 8 pound test line and a small or medium-sized closed face reel. Use small or medium-sized lures such as spoons, spinners, minnows, or flies as bait. Cast upstream or across current in rivers or streams where trout like to feed on drifting insects or baitfish. Retrieve your lure downstream or across current with a natural and smooth motion to match their movement.

• For fishing for catfish such as channel, blue, or flathead catfish, use a medium-heavy or heavy rod with a 12 to 20 pound test line and a medium-sized closed face reel. Use large lures such as cut bait, live bait, dough balls, or stink baits as bait. Cast near deep holes, bends, drop-offs, or dams where catfish like to lurk in search of food. Retrieve your lure slowly and gently with occasional stops or shakes to entice their curiosity.

• For fishing for walleye such as yellow perch, sauger, or pickerel, use a medium-light or medium rod with a 8 to 10 pound test line and a medium-sized closed face reel. Use medium-sized lures such as jigs, crankbaits, minnows, or leeches as bait. Cast near points, reefs, humps, or ledges where walleye like to patrol for food. Retrieve your lure moderately and steadily with occasional hops or jerks to mimic their prey.

The Best Closed Face Fishing Reel in a Nutshell

Here are the options to choose the best closed face fishing reel from:

Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel
Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel
Pflueger President Spincast Reel
Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel
Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel
Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel
Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Closed Face Fishing Reel

What is a closed face reel good for?

A closed face reel is good for fishing with light to medium tackle and catching small to medium-sized fish. It is also good for fishing with simple or basic techniques, such as casting and retrieving. A closed face reel is easy to use, requires minimal line management, and has less drag and friction than other types of reels.

What line is best for closed face reels?

The line that is best for closed face reels depends on your personal preference and fishing technique. However, some general guidelines are:

• Use monofilament line if you want a line that is easy to use and manage, has some stretch and forgiveness, and is suitable for most fishing scenarios.
• Use braided line if you want a line that is stronger and more sensitive, has no stretch or memory, and is suitable for advanced or complex fishing techniques.
• Use fluorocarbon line if you want a line that is invisible in water, has low stretch and high abrasion resistance, and is suitable for clear or pressured water.

What is the best spincast reel?

The best spincast reel is the one that suits your budget, preferences and needs. However, some factors that you should consider when choosing a spincast reel are:

• Construction materials and durability
• Gear ratio and line retrieval speed
• Ball bearings and smoothness of operation
• Drag system and its adjustability
• Line capacity and line compatibility
• Ergonomics and comfort during use

Based on these factors, some of the best spincast reels for 2023 are:

Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel
Daiwa Goldcast III Spincast Reel
Pflueger President Spincast Reel
Zebco Omega Spincast Fishing Reel
Zebco Bullet Spincast Fishing Reel
Zebco 808 Spincast Fishing Reel
Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel

How do you fish with a closed face reel?

To fish with a closed face reel, you need to follow these steps:

• Attach your closed face reel to your rod and thread your line through the guides.
• Tie your lure or bait to the end of your line using a suitable knot.
• Press the button on your reel to release the line and hold it with your index finger.
• Swing your rod back over your shoulder and then forward in a smooth motion.
• Release the button and your finger when your rod reaches the desired angle.
• Let your lure or bait fly to your target area and wait for a bite.
• When you feel a bite, set the hook by lifting your rod tip sharply.
• Reel in your fish by turning the handle of your reel while keeping tension on the line.

Why are open face reels left handed?

Open face reels are left handed because most anglers prefer to cast with their right hand and reel with their left hand. This way, they do not have to switch hands after casting and can maintain better control and balance. However, some open face reels have switchable retrieve that allow you to choose between right-hand or left-hand operation.