How To Cast, Maintain, And Choose The Best Underspin Reel
In this article, you will be guided about some of the best underspin reel reviews as well as maintenance and casting techniques.
Preview | Product | Out Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Underspin-XD Series, Trigger-Control Closed-Face Reel | |
| Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin | |
| Zebco Micro Trigger-spin 11MTS Fishing Reel | |
| Shakespeare Synergy Steel Reel |
Underspin reels are a type of lightweight reels. This reel type is a product of years of research and the latest technologies. They are generally easier to use, and while most anglers consider them as something only kids and beginners should use, they can actually add challenge to the fishing game of those with years of experience.
Underspin fishing reels or triggerspin reels are kind of like a combination of spinning and spincast reels. Like spin cast reels, they have an enclosed face. They also hang underneath standard spinning rods like spinning reels do. However, they have an added feature: they have a trigger that’s useful when casting.
Best Underspin Reel Reviews
1. Daiwa Underspin-XD Series Reel - Editor’s Pick
Via Amazon.com
The Daiwa Underspin XD Series is my best pick because I like how it’s ultra-lightweight and very well built. You also get a good deal for a nice reel for a reasonable price.
Unlike most other similar reels, Daiwa XD uses a trigger release activated by your finger through the forward-facing lever. It also has a bottom-mounted configuration that prevents line twisting or backlash. This reel is constructed with rugged metal gears and a Hardboyz Rigid aluminum alloy which makes it solid and durable without bearing too much weight.
It also allows me to get an excellent hook set, smooth retrieves, and longer casts thanks to the oversized line aperture, ball bearing drive, and rotating titanium nitrided line pickup. Aside from the trigger release, it also has a rear dial operated drag that makes it manageable with only one hand and prevents accidental or unwanted adjustments. It is also suitable for use with a wide variety of rods including noodle models and flies.
Pros
- Great reel for its price
- Ideal for catching large fish of up to 7 pounds
- Easily adjustable
- Large spool diameter and center hole for precise and long-range casting
- Great for everyday use
- Works well and easy to use for teaching and learning beginner techniques
- Minimizes line tangles, twisting, and backlash
- Offers a smooth drag
Cons
- Reports of multiple and repeated drag system malfunctions
- Drag knob is loosely attached
- The tangle-prevention or anti-reverse mechanisms does not work very well or tend to stop working after some time
- The line that comes with the spool is of low quality and low sensitivity
- Made in China
2. Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin- Alternative Pick
Via Amazon.com
This Spincast convertible triggerspin reel from Zebco is made with a highly durable graphite frame, and industrial-grade brushed stainless steel covers. The reasons why I did not choose this as the best underspin reel on the market among those listed here is because it is slightly more expensive than the Daiwa XD.
There are also very few reviews about it, a nice chunk of which report about it negatively. Therefore, I assumed that it does not work as well for everybody and may somehow require some getting used to.
Anyway, what I like about it is its continuous Anti-reverse technology that prevents the handle from moving while I pay out the line to reel in heavy or struggling fish. It also comes pre-spooled with a 4-pound Cajun line that is 90 yards long. It has a 3-bearing drive, and a convertible retriever as well. It has a gear ratio of 4:3:1.
If you purchase it from certified resellers, you can also get a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Changeable ambidextrous retrieve
- Lightweight yet heavy duty graphite frame
- Continuous Anti-reverse
- Dial adjustable, smooth drag
- Dual ceramic pick-up pins
- Great for jigging, stream fishing for trout, or crappie fishing with a fly rod
- Easy to cast
- Quality-made
Cons
- One user notes he had to tighten the reel handle screws pretty often
- Many customers report defects and non-functionality
- The line that comes with it breaks easily for a 4-pound test
- Grinds as if the gears and bearings are shot even with minimal use
3. Zebco Micro Triggerspin 11MTS Fishing Reel- Budget Pick
Via Amazon.com
If you are looking for a best triggerspin reel and you have a limited budget, this Zebco Micro Triggerspin Reel is one of your best bets. For only a few bucks, you get a triggerspin casting trigger with a line release system and a selective anti-reverse mechanism-equipped fishing reel with multiple stops.
I also applaud the adjustable drag that lets me adjust the drag according to the type, size, and strength of the fish using a simple dial.
I also like its graphite frame and corrosion-resistant stainless steel covers. Whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, you can use this reel easily thanks to the changeable ambidextrous retrieve setting.
It also features all-metal extra-hard magnum gears, dual pick-up pins, and ball-bearing drive with a gear ratio of 4:3:1. The pick-up pins are also ceramic and cut-proof. It even comes pre-spooled with a 4-pound, 90-yard-long monofilament line with authentic Zebco quality.
Pros
- Bite Alert technology
- Quick Set anti-reverse mechanism
- Pre-spooled trigger cast reel
- Durable graphite frame
- Easily adjustable drag
- Great for freshwater fishing interchangeable ambidextrous retrieve system
- Smooth action and casting
- Ultra-lightweight
- Small size
Cons
- Drag calibration is a bit tricky to adjust
- Snags toward the end of line retrieval due to an unknown cause
- Makes a noisy, growling sound during retrieval
- Sloppy crank handle
- Has a plastic trigger
- Not ideal for beginners
4. Shakespeare Synergy Steel Underspin Reel - Upgrade Pick
Via Amazon.com
Shakespeare has built a long reputation for producing quality and affordable fishing tackle and gear. However, the Synergy Underspin reel from the company qualifies as the upgrade pick since it is the most expensive among all reels in this list, although not by much,
This reel can be used by anyone in the family, beginner or expert alike. It features a polished stainless steel front cone and rear cover, a steel handle, and a titanium line guide as well.
It also has insta-grab dual titanium pickup pins and is driven by a 4:1:1- ratio gear. Another thing I like about this reel is its adjustable, multi-disc drag system which allows me to control the drag depending on my target fish.
This reel helps reduce damage to the line thanks to its durable elastomeric pinch ring. It also comes pre-spooled with a 70-yard 4-pound line. The Synergy Titanium Microspin Reel also features a chrome-plated steel handle with easy-grip textured rubber knobs. The hand-convertible retrieve also makes it easy to use for both right-handed and left-handed users.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight frame
- Suitable for everyday use by anglers of all skill levels
- Uses metal gears with a 4:1:1 ratio for durability
- Secure lock screw in the rear cover and handle provides better support
- Holds up very well for medium-sized fish
- Very easy to use
- Good adjustable drag system
- Easy to grasp
- Great as a backpack reel
Cons
- Might be too small for some fishermen or anglers
- One user reports that his reel won’t reel the line back in after casting
- Some plastic pieces tend to be weak and often defective
- The drag system is very limited when it comes to tightness
- The fixes for common problems on the reel require complicated steps
What Are Underspin Or Triggerspin reels?
As mentioned earlier, an underspin or triggerspin reel is essentially just a combination of a spinning reel and a spin cast reel. It can also be viewed as a spin cast reel mounted under a standard spinning rod. It has a lever also known as the “trigger” which is held by a finger, usually the forefinger.
When casting forward casts, the trigger is released, and the line unwinds and releases from the fixed spool. Similar to spin cast reels, underspin reels have pick-up pins instead of the usual wire bails to hold the line. The closed face of an underspin reel is often a rounded hood where a hole for the line to pass through is located. The latest models typically feature larger hole sizes to allow for longer and smoother casting.
The enclosure can be made with various materials like hard plastic, aluminum alloys, or other metals. This enclosure is where you can find the spool system along with other components and mechanisms that prevent backlash, tangles, or twisting of the line.
What are the advantages of a triggerspin reel or underspin reel? There are many advantages of underspin reels that not everyone knows about. For some of the most notable benefits of underspin reels, check out this list below:
Most triggerspin or underspin reels can be purchased already pre-spooled with fishing lines
Triggerspin reels are among the ideal reels to be used for most kinds of freshwater fishing
The latest and most innovative and sophisticated underspin models are also rich in upgraded features
Underspin reels are very suitable
All triggerspin or underspin reels are equipped with adjustable drag systems
Similar to many other reel types
How To Cast An Underspin Reel
There are many ways to cast a reel. However, specific types may require certain skills or techniques to cast properly. For instructions on how you should cast an underspin reel, refer to the tutorial below:
1. When casting a triggerspin reel, the first thing you should do is squeeze the trigger. So hold it with your forefinger or index finger. This holds and secures your fishing line.
2. Next, position the rod tip at an angle behind you somewhere within or between the two o’clock and three o’clock positions if you plan to make an over-the-shoulder cast. For a sidearm cast, you can also bring your rod to one side, all the while still holding the trigger.
3. Determine your target and keep your eye on it. Focus on aiming at that target.
4. Begin making a forward cast by swinging the rod tip back a little and then shooting it forward with a single smooth and continuous motion.
5. Make sure to release the trigger held by your finger on the right moment, usually around the 10 o’clock position or when the fishing rod’s tip aligns evenly with your body, for a smoother, farther cast.6. To retrieve, turn the handle to re-engage the lock.
For an illustration on how to properly do that, please check out this video:
General Care And Maintenance Tips For Closed-Faced Reels
Regardless of whether your reel is expensive or not, you should still observe proper care and maintenance to make sure it will last longer and will work optimally every time you use it.
Because closed-faced reels like underspin reels come with enclosures, regular maintenance is a bit more challenging due to the extra steps and measures you should remember. Here are the tips on how you can keep your reel working great for a long, long time:
- Make sure to keep your reel free from dirt, sand, and other debris. In cases where this cannot be prevented, remove the debris as soon as you can.
- Store your reels in a dust-free shelf, shed, or storage area.
- Clean and dry your reel completely before storing to avoid rust and other problems.
- Use a protective container, bag, or cover for your fishing equipment.
- Apply lubrication on parts of your reel that needs it, but only sparingly. Do not use WD-40 but choose recommended reel lubricants only. WD-40 tends to build up over time, which can run your equipment on top of ruining your otherwise smooth retrieves and casts.
Conclusion
So those are the best underspin reel reviews! Remember to follow the care and maintenance tips and casting instructions especially if you are a beginner. Knowing the basics is always important for any activity or sport.
Did you learn anything new and did this article help you choose the ideal equipment for you? If so, please feel free to share it with your friends and family! You are also welcome to leave your comments, questions, or suggestions in the comment section below so please do so. I’d love to hear from you!
You might also like : What Does Shad Eat? (What You Need To Know To Find The Perfect Bait)
