I want to use the reel with braided line and use it for close combat sight fishing. Which reel size should I get?

Question

I  want to use the reel with braided line and use it for close combat sight fishing. Which reel size should I get?

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Short answer:** go with a mid-sized reel that matches your rod and lure weight. For most close-quarters sight fishing with braided line, aim for a spinning reel in the 2500–3000 range, or a baitcasting reel with a mid-range gear ratio (roughly 6.3:1–7.5:1). If you’re chasing ultra-light lures or panfish, a 1000–2000 spinning reel can work, but for bass and similar targets in tight cover, 2500–3000 is the sweet spot.

**Why this size works**
- Braided line is thin and highly sensitive, so you want enough line capacity and a solid drag to handle big taps without compromising casts. A 2500–3000 spinning reel balances cast distance, line capacity, and a smooth drag system for 20–40 lb braid (and even heavier if you’re fishing thick cover).
- If you’re using a baitcasting setup, a mid-sized reel with a 6.3:1–7.5:1 gear ratio can give you quick retrieves and precise control in tight spots. Pair with 30–50 lb braid and a short fluorocarbon leader (6–12 inches) for stealth and abrasion resistance.

**Setup tips by reel type**
- Spinning reel (2500–3000):
  - Use 20–30 lb braided line (or 30–40 lb if you’re fishing heavy cover).
  - Add a 6–12 inch fluorocarbon leader to reduce line visibility and improve abrasion resistance on sharp structure.
  - Spool the braid so the fill is just below the rim to avoid spool overrun; consider a mono backing if you’re new to it.
  - Drag: start around 20–30% of your braid’s breaking strength and tune by a quick pull-test.
  - Lure range: effective for 1/8–3/8 oz lures, ideal for short, precise casts into cover.
- Baitcasting reel (mid-range):
  - Gear ratio: 6.3:1 to 7.5:1 suits quick, accurate placements in tight spots.
  - Use 30–50 lb braid; consider a 12–18 inch fluorocarbon leader for finesse applications.
  - Ensure the drag is smooth and consistent; set it slightly looser than you’d expect and test with a soft jerk to simulate a bite.
  - Great for heavier jigs and swimbaits up to ~3/4 oz in dense cover.

**Practical techniques for mid-fall (season: mid fall)**
- Fish behavior shifts: cooler water can push fish to structure. Use shorter, more confident pitches or flips to expose lures to ambush points.
- Clarity and temperature: in clearer water, braid’s visibility matters less if you keep a short leader; in stained water, you might want a slightly lighter braid for a stealthier presentation.
- Lure choices: compact soft plastics and small swimbaits excel in close quarters. For tips and examples, check these lure ideas: 
  - [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J4CR24K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [TRUSCEND Top Water Lures](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T1FKL9Z?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08W2Z6VT8?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

**A quick setup recap**
- For most conditions: spinning 2500–3000 with 20–30 lb braid + 6–12 inch fluorocarbon leader.
- If you’re targeting heavier cover or bigger bass: consider a 3000–4000 with 30–50 lb braid.
- Always match rod power to lure weight (a medium-light to medium rod for light lures; medium-heavy for heavier jigs).

If you want, I can tailor this to the exact species and rod length you’re using, and suggest specific reel models. You’ve got this—nail those precise shots and watch the bites roll in. Tight lines! 🎣💥

Question: I want to use the reel with braided line and use it for close combat sight fishing. Which reel size should I get?

Product Recommendations

TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling and Vibrating Actions for More Bites, Segmented Swimbait Jointed by Dyneema Strongest Fiber, Lifelike Fishing Lures for Relax Family Fishing

Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits, Slow Sinking Lifelike Swimbaits Crankbaits Hard Baits Lure Set, Fishing Gear for Bass Trout Pike Walleye, Freshwater Saltwater Predator Bait

HALYXS 7 pcs - Soft Minnow, Fishing Lures, Bass Lures, Treble Hook, Realistic Bait - Soft Plastic

HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit for Diving Bass/Trout/Pike with Lifelike Action, Fishing Gear Set for 2025 Xmas (Gift Box 1)

TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks, Whopper for Freshwater or Saltwater, Floating Lure Bass Catfish Pike, Wobble Surface Bait Teasers Gifts Men

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits Freshwater Saltwater Jigging Bass Gear Gifts for Men

41Pcs Fishing Lures Kit, Topwater Swimbait Minnow Lures for Bass Trout Salmon, Freshwater Saltwater Fishing Tackle Set for Men & Beginners(Business Style)

TRUSCEND Fishing Jigs Lures with Handmade Lead Heads Paddle Tail Spinner Baits for Bass Trout Walleye Musky Soft Plastic Fishing Lures

Community

Rod & Reel Questions

my man , how do i catch a bluefin tuna with a 40CM rod and small rubber lure

best reel for under 70$

How is the line supposed to go right here to make it spin

What's the best shimano low profile bait casting reel?

More Questions

Should I use a square bill today?

How to catch fish at Wissahickon Creek?

What is the best bass fishing spot in Vantage, WA?

How can I catch perch?

How can I avoid catching fish that are too small?

Best bait to catch mackerel?

How can I catch snapper in Jervis Bay?

How can I make homemade catfish bait?