Inline vs. Spinning Ice Fishing Reel: Choosing the Right One

What is an Inline Ice Reel?

An inline ice reel is designed specifically for ice fishing. It allows the line to lie straight on the spool, minimizing line twist—a common issue in cold conditions. This design is beneficial when jigging, as it prevents the bait from spinning unnaturally, which can deter fish.

Manual vs. Trigger Inline Systems

When looking at inline reels, you'll notice two different styles: manual and trigger. Our Ice Fishing Experts explain each below to help you narrow down your options:

• Manual Inline Reels: Best for shallow water (under 10–12 feet). They’re simple, reliable, and more budget-friendly but require anglers to pull line out by hand.

• Trigger Inline Reels: The most popular style, though typically more expensive. With the push of a trigger, anglers can feed out line at any point and stop instantly, offering ultimate control over bait presentation in deeper water.

Pros of Inline Ice Fishing Reels

• Reduced Line Twist: Inline reels are excellent for minimizing line twist, making them ideal for jigging.

• Durability: These reels are built to withstand harsh winter conditions, offering longevity and reliability.

• Precision: Inline reels provide better control over bait presentation, crucial for enticing fish in cold waters.

Cons of Inline Ice Fishing Reels

• Limited Drag System: Inline reels often have less sophisticated drag systems compared to spinning reels, which can be a disadvantage when targeting larger fish.

• Learning Curve: For beginners, inline reels can be challenging to master, requiring practice to adjust settings correctly.

What is a Spinning Ice Reel?

A spinning ice reel is a downsized version of the traditional spinning reel. These reels are versatile and easy to use, making them a popular choice among beginners and experienced anglers alike. They handle a wide range of ice fishing techniques and excel when targeting larger species in deeper water.

Pros of Spinning Ice Fishing Reels

• Ease of Use: Intuitive design makes them beginner-friendly.

• Versatility: Can handle different jigging techniques and a variety of fish species.

• Stronger Drag Systems: Generally more capable of fighting larger fish compared to inline reels.

Cons of Spinning Ice Fishing Reels

• Line Twist: More prone to line twist, which can affect bait presentation.

• Less Natural Presentation: Can cause the bait to spin unnaturally, especially when jigging with lighter lures.

Comparison Chart for Inline Ice Fishing Reels vs. Spinning

Choosing between an inline ice fishing reel and an ice spinning reel comes down to experience level, target species, and preferred fishing techniques. Our Ice Fishing Experts compare and contrast these two types of ice fishing reels so you can easily narrow down which is best for you.

Whether you're a seasoned ice angler or just starting, choosing between an inline and a spinning reel for ice fishing is important for success on the ice. If you have additional questions about getting the right ice fishing gear, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.