You’ve two choices when it comes to choosing the best closed face reels for your every-day fishing rod: closed face reels and open face reels. Anyone who has been using open faced reels for many years and tried the closed face ones once, they will tell you how amazing the latter is. Though this sounds a little bit biased, it is the reality.
A larger number of fishing reels out there are cheaper and are neither high end nor meant for experienced anglers. Actually, they’re ideal for young scouts who are just learning the fishing activity.
If you were exposed to the high-end closed face reels options, you must have realized that there are premium-quality fishing reels out there that represent a perfect balance of professional design and efficiency to offer users many years of exciting, seamless fishing trips.
Therefore, anglers looking for an outstanding fishing experience can analyze different closed face reel options and choose what best your needs.
Unfortunately, finding the right quality closed face fishing reel isn’t as easy as most anglers think. Indeed, it is a challenging task, given the countless models available in today’s market.
Closed face fishing reels are an essential tool needed for today’s fishing adventures and is considered an excellent addition if you intend to embark on advanced levels of fishing.
This comprehensive review, comparison, and buying guide will help you understand the primary considerations to make and pick an item that best suit your fishing needs.
Closed face reels: A comparison chart
Different closed face fishing reels come in different sizes and shapes. So, what differentiates one from the others? First, think about the major factors such as ball bearings, brakes, drag system, durability, line capacity, spools, casting ability, and more.
Here is a comprehensive comparison chart that highlights the main features of each product and makes it easier to compare ten different fishing reels within the shortest time possible
| Ranking | Name | Dimension | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Fishing Reel | 8.5 x 9 x 5.5 inches | 1.4 pounds |
| 2 | Zebco ZB310BX3 Bullet Spincast Reel | 7.48 x 5.98 x 3.81 inches | 1.45 pounds |
| 3 | Zebco 33 Authentic Spincast Reel | 4 x 4 x 3 inches | 0.35 pounds |
| 4 | Zebco Omega Spincast Reel 6BB 2.9:1 | 4.2 x 3 x 4.8 inches | 1 pounds |
| 5 | Hunter’s Tail Fishing Reel | 4.5 x 4 x 3.2 inches | 3.2 pounds |
| 6 | Daiwa Goldcast Spincast Fishing Reel | 6 x 5.8 x 4.2 inches | 1 pounds |
| 7 | Zebco 33KPL, 10C, BX6 Spincast Reel | – | – |
| 8 | Zebco ZO3,10,BX3 Omega Z03 Spincast Reel | – | – |
| 9 | Zebco ZO3 Omega Spincast Reel | – | – |
| 10 | Daiwa Goldcast Spincast Reel | 5 x 4 x 3 inches | 0.6 pounds |
1. Zebco/Quantum ZO3 Pro Omega Spincast Reel
If you need a powerful, stylish spincast reel that is simple to use while providing the robustness required for many years of seamless fishing, this spincast reel is an excellent option. It is a versatile fishing reel that has been configured for both left-handed and right-handed fishers. Besides, it’s made of high-quality and tough materials such as stainless steel and aluminum to boost the product’s durability.
The reel works perfectly with a broad range of fishing lines and is specifically good at staying free from nasty knots. This means you can enjoy your fishing activities all day long. Its casting accuracy and distance abilities are quite impressive. Any fisher can rely on this reel for seamless fishing and many years of service.
This Zebco/Quantum ZO3 Pro Omega Spincast Reel is equipped with two spools. This is useful for individuals who wish to interchange between various reel lengths. Similarly, the choice between different reel handles makes it easier for the user to configure the spin-caster to their preferences. That means you can switch between the two setups without hassle if you intend to share the reel with children.
Whether you are a novice or even an experienced angler, this Zebco/Quantum ZO3 Pro Omega Spincast Reel gives you a unique chance to take your fishing experience a notch higher. You can use the reel with some of the common medium-sized lures, and it is an incredible masterpiece that promises to take away the strain during your fishing adventures.
Pros
- Durable as it is made of high-quality materials
- Most users consider it the pinnacle of spincast performance
- It 20% lighter compared to the previous models
- It is ideal for right-handed and left-handed fishers
Cons
- The product comes with a limited on-year one warranty against workmanship and defects
2. Daiwa Goldcast Spincast Reel – Heavy
Daiwa is one of the most popular names among anglers as the brand rolls out excellent quality pieces of fishing gear. In addition to their reputable fishing rods and lines, Daiwa is also known for creating the most reliable spincast reels around. With countless listings among premium pieces of fishing gear, you don’t have to be surprised that their spincast reel is among the top-ranking pieces of fishing gear out there available at an affordable price.
This Goldcast reel from Daiwa is made of durable materials and is equipped with an oscillating spool. The smooth drag is the solution to the most complaint that most anglers have about closed face reels. This Goldcast Spincast Reel’s versatile setup allows you to configure the reel to be a right-handed fishing reel or left-handed fishing reel depending on your needs. Remember, this is somewhat a heavy reel made of solid metals and provides a smooth function that you cannot associate with heavy-duty fishing reels.
The spincast reel can effectively cast for a long distance and is best used with about 6lb test line. An 8lb test line can work excellently. Thus, this isn’t ideal for braided fishing line.
Pros
- Smooth casts and retrieval
- Excellent construction for durability
- Has stiff stainless steel line guide
Cons
- The reel is very heavy
Also read: Top 10 Best Catfish Reels: Compared, Rated and Reviewed
3. Zebco ZB310BX3 Bullet Spincast Reel
This spin-casting reel is another closed faced reel from a trusted company in the manufacturing industry. Zebco ZB310BX3 brings out all the essential components that any angler would look for on a reel. It has a silver anodized cover and a blue aluminum body, which makes it outstanding in the market. It also features nine bearings and an anti-reverse clutch. The spool has a quick-change setup and comes with a spare spool of line.
Zebco ZB310BX3 bearings are designed to give a smooth and effortless retrieval. The reel is built with the non-friction technology, which makes it durable. You can maintain a fixed position when using the reel with its flexible anti-reverse clutch.
Pros
- Useful for wide casting
- Easy to retrieve from left to right
- Has a double anodized front cover to last longer
- It has a quick change spool design
Cons
- Too heavy for older anglers
- Expensive
4. Pflueger President Spincast Fishing Reel
Pflueger President is a five-bearing system reel that you can rely on for any style of fishing. The fishing reel may be inferior amongst most bass anglers, but it stills ranks as one of the best reels any beginner or professional angler can have. It comes with two titanium pins for enhanced durability and performance. Also, it is built with a lightweight aluminum frame that is rust-resistant.
With its anti-reverse system, you can set your rod hooks instantly and begin fishing. It is easy to retrieve the reel, given its smooth and flexible bearing system. Also, it assures you a firm grip on the handle. The handle knob is made of rubber to increase friction.
Pros
- The instant anti-reverse function makes it very flexible
- It has a rubber knob handle for comfortability
- Made of the aluminum frame to last longer
Cons
- Not recommended for deep-sea fishing or catching giant fish species
5. Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Reel
The Omega Pro reel is not just an ordinary product in the market. This reel stands out in the market as one made by a trusted company. Zebco has included all the essential features of a quality reel on this product, making it one of the most sought. It is built to last longer using the unique aircraft-grade aluminum. It comes with a 7-bearing system that makes it more flexible and adaptable for any fishing.
It is not easy for water to penetrate inside this reel, given that it has a rubber guard. Whether you are a beginner, you can install Omega Pro reel without any problem. It comes with a simple setup and a decent gear ratio of 3:4:1. The reel comes with spare spool already filled with Cajun Optix.
Pros
- Affordable compared to most reels
- Has an extra dual-knob power handle for comfort ability
- Aluminum construction makes it durable
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- The gear ration is low compared to other spin-cast reels
6. Daiwa Goldcast Spincast Fishing Reel
Are you looking for a professional Spincast reel in the market? Well, Daiwa Goldcast is designed to meet your professional needs as an angler. This spin-casting reel is made of a 4:1:1 ratio, which makes it more flexible compared to other steel. It comes with a line capacity of 80/100 and weighs 9.90 oz only.
You are assured an even retrieve with this 1-ball-bearing reel at your disposal. It can last longer because it is made of a metallic body. Also, the line guides are smooth, robust, and uses the anti-reverse technology.
Pros
- Comes with a 3-year money-back warranty
- More affordable than most spin-casting reels
- Made of the rugged metallic body to last longer
- Offers an even and smooth retrieval with its anti-reverse system
- Has a sturdy construction
Cons
- Very heavy
- Not suitable for older anglers
7. Zebco 33KPL, 10C, BX6 Spincast Reel
This is a perfect reel if you are looking forward to catching only the smaller fish. Zebco 33 Platinum is very efficient for catching smaller fish weighing below 10lbs. With this spin-casting reel by your side, you can always be sure of harvesting more. It is built with a 4:1:1 ration and comes with a 5-ball bearing system. The gear ratio is useful when catching an aggressive fish because it can sustain the fishing line.
Zebco 33 Platinum is made of a metallic handle and body to last longer and withstand the harsh conditions. It provides smooth and fast retrieval with its anti-reverse mechanism. This spin-casting reel has a handle that favors both right and left-handed individuals. Also, it comes with 100 yards of a 10-pound Cajun Line that enables it to withstand any pressure the catch can exert on it.
Pros
- Has a durable metallic construction
- Rust-resistant
- Ensures easy retrieval and casting
- Comes with a flexible anti-reverse system
Cons
- The release buttons can be stuck anytime
- Only suitable for catching smaller fish species
8. Zebco 33 Micro Gold Triggerspin Reel
Zebco 33 Micro Gold is the USA made a spin-casting reel that both professional and beginner anglers can enjoy using. You can use this spin-casting reel on shallow freshwater bodies. It has a stainless steel cover and graphite frame, which makes it rust-resistant and durable. Sometimes the casting can be hard, but with the anti-reverse systems built on this reel, you can always maintain a constant position and pull your catch from the water smoothly.
This spin-casting reel comes with a 4:3:1 gear ration for maximum flexibility and a 3-ball bearing drive for smooth turning and retrieval. Also, the handle is suitable for both left and right-hand anglers.
Pros
- Made of graphite material which makes it lighter than most reels in the market
- Comes with a one–year product warranty
- Built to last longer than standard reel
Cons
- Not easy to keep dry
9. Zebco ZO3 Omega Spincast Reel
Zebco is one of the top companies in the fishing industry. All their products, including the Zebco Z03, stand out in the market for quality and durability. The Zebco ZO3 reel offers numerous benefits to both beginner and professional anglers. It is a high-tech reel that comes with a 7-bearing spin cast. Also, it has a sealed soft-touch rubber thumb that makes it more comfortable to use.
It weighs 10.0 pounds and comes with an 85.0-yard line capacity. This is ideal for both long-distance and freshwater casting. It has a stainless steel bearing and cover, which makes it resistant to rust. The ceramic line guides and oscillating wind spool makes it a must-have spin-casting reel for a professional angler.
Pros
- The aluminum cover makes it last longer than ordinary reels
- Easy to install and use
- Has 6-ball bearing system for a smooth movement
- The 2:9:1 gear ratio makes it fast and efficient
Cons
- Beginners may face some issues of line fraying
10. Pflueger Trion Spincast Fishing Reel
Pflueger gives you a perfect solution for a spin-casting reel. Whichever bait you intend to use when casting, Pflueger Trion has the right construction to make it work. Forget about the price, the quality attached to this spin-casting reel makes it outstanding in the market.
The reel comes with a 2:9:1 ration for efficiency and speed. It is a 2-bearing system that comes with corrosion-resistant balls to last longer and withstand the harsh water conditions. It is made of an aircraft-grade aluminum handle that doesn’t rust easily. If you like bass fishing, then you will find this spin-casting reel ideal for long-distance casting. Even an older angler can find this reel useful because of its lightweight. It has a graphite body, which makes it lighter.
Pros
- The handles have soft knobs for comfortability
- Suitable for both right and left-handed anglers
- Made of light graphite material
- Has a durable and sturdy construction
Cons
- Not fit for heavy bait
The ultimate buying guide for closed face reels
If you’re in search of the right fishing reel, there are just a few innate qualities that you may want to identify. First, keep in mind that there are many categories of fishing reels, and closed face reel is one of those categories. They’re referred to as closed because there are usually hidden beneath the body. The line is the only protruding part, and that implies that this name is appropriate for this fishing reel.
Due to the increasing demand for these products, an increasing number of models are making their way into today’s markets. If you choose to go out asking other anglers to recommend the best options, you’re likely to get many conflicting opinions. The internet is flooding with information, and there is a good chance you will get more confused. Our editors have made it easier for fishers to understand the specific factors they must consider and choose the right fishing reel.
Important components of a closed face reel
The front side
The front side of a closed face reel has three components. These include the spinner head, line pool, and the front cover. The fishing line should wound around the spool and then held in place by the spinner head. The spinner head has a small release pin that makes it easy to unwind the line when releasing. Both the spinner head and line spool are usually held in place by a series of washers and nuts.
Finally, these components are covered using a high-quality front cover. Typically, the cover is made of high-quality plastic, and thus, it can be twisted into the fishing reel effectively for better fishing experience and exciting trips.
The handle
The entire handling system has four essential components. The crank handle has one or two highly quality grips, and the second component is the locking nut used to secure the reel’s crankshaft in place. The third component is the drag star, a component that separates the handle from the rest of the reel’s body. It is a star-shaped wheel that can be used to make the necessary adjustments to the drag. Typically, it is mounted in such a way that it is easy to adjust the line resistance.
The reel body
A closed face reel’s body is made of a broad range of essential parts. Some of these parts include an anti-reverse mechanism, clutch ring, center shaft, and thumb release. Probably you already understand that the anti-reverse system plays an integral role in making sure that the fishing line doesn’t unwind on its own.
Additionally, the clutch ring is also essential. It controls the spools efficiently to ensure that the line unwinds when disengaged. The center shaft is an equally important part of the reel’s release mechanism that boosts the release accuracy.
Now that you have a better understanding of how a closed face fishing reel looks like, what should you consider when choosing one?
What makes an excellent close face reel?
Just like any other fishing reel out there, closed face reels are usually exposed to different types of challenges. Thus, it is important to ensure that you invest in the right quality. Here are some of the factors you must consider.
Corrosion resistance
Often, fishing involves interactions with saltwater. For this reason, it is best to settle for a corrosion-resistant reel. Generally, aluminum is widely preferred for saltwater fishing. However, you can still go for a combination of graphite and aluminum. First, such fishing reels are lightweight, durable, and affordable for anglers on a budget.
The reel’s construction
The last thing any fisher wants is to replace a piece of fishing gear regularly, and a closed face fishing reel isn’t an exception. Therefore, focus on choosing a product made of sturdy materials such as graphite and aluminum or even a combination of these materials. Generally, aluminum is heavily recommended for strong reel housing. Though it is slightly expensive and somewhat less flexible compared to graphite reels, aluminum fishing reels offer many hours of seamless fishing experience.
The size of the closed face reel
You already know that the size of the fishing reel you choose dictates the fishing line you will use for a particular distance. If you plan to the user a lighter fishing line, it is best to choose a small fishing reel. In case you choose to go for heavy-duty options, it is best that you choose a large closed face reel. And if you’re not sure about the right way to go, a medium-sized reel is a great place to begin.
Wrap up
There’s no doubt fishing is one of the most exciting experiences. And the best way to ensure that you have great fishing trips is ensuring that you have the right fishing gear. To this end, you have learned a thing or two about the best closed face reels and can identify ones that best suit your fishing needs. Remember, the cost of a fishing reel is among the factors you should consider. Try as much as you can to get a piece that performs excellently and available at an affordable price.