Overall the Black Betty 6061 is a quality reel that is both sturdy and durable and provides good value for money. It provides a great price to performance ratio. What I really like about the Black Betty FreeFall Ghost is the excellent drop speed control. The best drag system will let line out just before the critical point. ice betty reel fishing line inline reels combos The reel features an instant anti-reverse, so you wont need to worry about overruns or tangles. How to Choose the Right Ice Fishing Reel? You could at a push. Im going to show you what you need to look for in order to ensure this. The second is ease of use. reel claw eagle ice fishing inline rod combo spinning amp hale diaphragm beginner triple knight turkey reels sources This is why the reel is a lower price than the aluminum models. Provided you are fishing in fair to moderate weather, this reel would be perfect for bigger fish such as Walleye. Job done.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'bonfirebob_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',112,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-banner-1-0')}; You, cant. If you are only going to be fishing for small fish this isnt as crucial.

With the high drag load this reel has, it can be used for targeting heavier fish such as pike and walleye and still give you lots of control over the fight. If you are deliberately targeting bigger species then you will want a reel with enough drag and size to handle it. Using theBlack Betty 6021is very simple as the functional buttons and dials are very easy to access and operate. Not a deal-breaker as it was only slightly noticeable, but something to consider if you have larger hands. But the Black Betty range of inline reels is just that good, and each one mentioned here offers something slightly different from the others so they are all worthy of their place. The Black Betty FreeFall XL reel is available in both left-handed and right-handed models. The best ice fishing reels for walleye, or other big species will need to be bigger or at least more substantial.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,90],'bonfirebob_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',108,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')}; How you intend to fish should be a real deciding factor. Remember, you arent going to cast. And this one is as simple as it gets. The jury is out on the fender. The Black Betty FreeFall Ghost has some upgraded features from previous models that enhance its usage even more. What is the best inline ice fishing reel for Walleye? That said the reel is solid, substantial and should do a great job. The carbon frame and aluminum spool on the FreeFall XL make this a very smooth reel to operate in cold water conditions. This also covers you for bigger fish taking line. As an affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We give all of our reviewed products away once the review is complete. The extra-large spool design on the FreeFall XL means that you get a very efficient retrieval speed, with each turn of the handle gaining back a huge 24 inches of line (compared to the 18 inches per turn on the Black Betty 6061 for example). Required fields are marked *. It looks amazing, the zinc alloy body and wooden handle give it a classic look and feel. It is maybe a little heavier duty than some of our other offerings, but if you are looking for reliability this may actually be what you need.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,250],'bonfirebob_com-leader-3','ezslot_10',115,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-leader-3-0')}; The line capacity on this reel is huge. Yes they are, ice fishing reels are generally smaller and lighter than regular reels. Inline reels are designed specifically for jig fishing, where you drop a bait straight down. But dont worry, you can check it out here! We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. This high-quality ice fishing reel will perform in most situations. Tip: Make sure you get an inline reel with a fender guard, it will save you so much time (and headaches) with tangles, as the overspill of line on reels that dont have a fender is a regular pain in the butt!. The greater the numbers at the start, the quicker your ice fishing reel brings line in. I like a level wind, but they arent for everyone, and some might feel it solves a problem that doesnt exist. Some of the operations on an inline reel are similar to those on a baitcasting reel. If you catch the species you want, in most conditions, without too much difficulty then you have achieved your goal.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'bonfirebob_com-netboard-1','ezslot_16',122,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-netboard-1-0')}; If I had to pick a fixed spool, the Piscifun ICX 5 wins hands down. The first is what you want to catch and the second is how you intend to catch it. Ever heard the term slow and steady wins the race? Overall, this is a really solid offering. For an average sized monofilament line, youll be looking to load around 150 feet comfortably. You do not have to have a high skill level to operate them, they are very intuitive to use. Ill say it slowly. This can get confusing so let me tell you a bit about convention. It is full of guidance on rods, reels and things that are just as essential when ice fishing, such as ice fishing boots and the best ice fishing augers. In this article, I am going to reveal the best ultralight spinning reels currently on the market, with many of these being new releases in 2022. Once you know those things you will be able to make a good choice. 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall XL Ice Reel Top Rated, 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Ghost Ice Reel, Eagle Claw Inline Ice Reel Budget option, Lets get into it, here are the best inline ice fishing reels, Here are some other good inline fishing reel options, What are the warmest ice fishing boots (Mens and Womens). If youve done even a little ice fishing, youll know that the rod isnt going to be huge. It allows you to get it down to the depths that the fish are congregating at and stop the line the instant you need to. Why not take a look at this video on how to spool an inline reel, it will save you time! Ive really enjoyed going through some of the best ice fishing reels in 2022 with you. Sometimes you will want to fish big jigs, sometimes small. As an aside dont go too low. The smooth drag system on the Black Betty 6061 is evident from the first time it is engaged, and the substantial 18-inch per turn line retrieve will quickly give you the confidence that you have control over any fish you hook onto. If you are spinning, youll want a faster retrieval rate. This reel will allow you to do both. If you have seen my essential ice fishing gear list, youll know how important I consider a reel to be. List of Bluegill Spawn Time by State, link to The Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Fishing Kayak Review. We wouldnt like to battle something big with it, for panfish and occasional use it should work well. When a manufacturer says left handed. Not so with the little beauty. The Black Betty 6061 also has a bait clicker function, which is a popular functionality to have with many ice anglers. Press a button to allow the reel to free spool your bait to the desired depth. For an inline reel? Its that simple. But it would be hard work. I havent tried it, nor would I want to. Just tweak the drag to a sensible setting and let gravity do its work. If that happens, this would be great to keep as a backup. Bite detection with this reel is amazing. 13 Fishing has clearly thought through the design of this reel and made it extremely easy to operate one-handed, even with a thick pair of gloves on. By fulfilling this one criterion you put yourself in the best position to catch a fish! The best inline reel for Walleye is the13 Fishing Black Betty 6061. You want to make sure you choose the right reel. In this article I have compiled some of the best inline ice fishing reels currently available, so you can continue your fishing as soon as the thick ice comes. If you want to see one in action, handling some really impressive walleye, check this out! Also the spool tension control, which allows you to micro-adjust so you dont get any backlash in your line when you are dropping baits straight down.. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishingmyway_co-leader-3','ezslot_7',144,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishingmyway_co-leader-3-0')};The big spools on inline reels mean you get very little line memory as you would often see in conventional spinning reels. And a front mounted drag allows you to get a great balance. The frame is constructed from strong and very lightweight graphite and the spool uses aluminum. Our guide below should help you.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'bonfirebob_com-box-3','ezslot_5',104,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-box-3-0')}; Choosing the right ice fishing reel will generally be dictated by two things. And with a 12lb front mounted drag system, you should have the muscle you need to fight bigger fish.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'bonfirebob_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',105,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; Is corrosion still on your mind? The Stradic Ci4+ had been such a hit with anglers around the world for many years, so it was a bold move by Shimano to completely remove it from their range of spinning reels. A really easy way to summarize it is as follows. Constantly winding on an inline reel can get tiring. Are inline reels best for deeper water or shallow water fishing? Features are great, but if they get in the way, or are too difficult for your experience then you wont get the benefit. Have you used any of the reels I suggested? Your email address will not be published. To release the line, you simply press the spool release button on the side of the reel which is very easy to activate and will allow you to drop the line at will, even with thick gloves on. Let me explainif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'bonfirebob_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',140,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0')}; Youll need something with sufficient drag to play the fish, without breaking the line. The chunky dual reel handle is easy to wind even if you are wearing gloves.

For more information, see disclosure here. Yep, its another 13 Fishing inline reel. The retrieve ratio is slightly slower than some of our other reels, but that isnt always a bad thing, youll know exactly how much line you have left and be in solid contact with the fish. Why would I say this?if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'bonfirebob_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',106,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-large-leaderboard-2-0')}; Its a little pocket rocket. Should I Choose a Left or Right-Handed Ice Fishing Reel? Or have you got any not to be missed tips on using an inline reel? But they are great in shallower depths as well, and the finesse of the reel makes it ideal for targeting fish of all sizes too.. If you are on a budget, but want to try an inline reel then this would make a good choice. A decent retrieve speed completes the package. Without getting too technical what this means is that the reel is a joy to use. As a final bit of polish the reel features a front facing fender, stopping snow and ice from accumulating in vital areas. A graphite body doesnt come cheap, but then neither does performance. Consider anything that will stop your reel from working, and consider how likely that it will be to happen.

Feel free to leave a comment below. All of the inline reels mentioned on this page have been designed for the cold conditions and will ultimately enhance your ice fishing experience due to their excellent performance abilities. The retrieve rate is amongst the highest of our inline reels too!

I struggled to find anything bad to say about it. With a fixed spool this can cause twisting followed by tangles. Think about which piece of tackle is in constant use and motion. If you want tried and tested, then you have come to the right place. A great general rule is to spool enough line to cover 3-4 times the depth of your usual spot.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'bonfirebob_com-netboard-2','ezslot_17',123,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-netboard-2-0')}; So, if its 10 feet deep, put on 30-40 feet of line. The large line release lever is ideally positioned to allow the line release with the thumb of the hand holding the rod and reel. The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. Im not going to confuse the issue further giving any more examples. Yes, it will, although the reel body is compact, the reel foot that attaches to your handle is a good size. No. The hand orientation you need will be the same hand that youll use to turn the handle. What is the best ice fishing reel for under $50? Shipping to be paid by the recipient. Aside from reducing weight you also eliminate something else, that is the enemy of all fishing equipment. The user-friendly design allows for very efficient usage, with the large handle knob that makes it easy to wind in, even when you have thick gloves on. The line release lever is easily accessible with the hand holding the rod and reel, so dropping the line down into the water is an easy one-handed operation. Remember you lose about 2ft of line on every trip by snipping off lures, rigs and tying knots. Traditionally they are referring to the hand that you will turn the handle with. What is Magnet Fishing and How to Get Started? Nice design touches such as the comfortable palm pad that provides cushioning when using a pistol grip show that every aspect of the reel has been well considered, and clearly made by people who fish and understand the little nuances of design optimizations like this. With this reel you will get both. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'fishingmyway_co-leader-2','ezslot_6',143,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishingmyway_co-leader-2-0')};These reels generally have an extended reel foot that allows you to use a pencil / pistol grip on the rod and reel, and this gives you much more control.

It also adds to the strength and durability of the reel. The line also comes off the spool in a straight line which is important for this type of fishing as it reduces any twist in the line so the lures arent spinning around in an unnatural way when they are in the water. The large trigger button is perfectly positioned so you can release the line with one hand and drop your jigs down to the exact depth where the fish are located. link to When do Bluegill Spawn? Ill be honest. If you want a long-lasting reel that can stand up to the extreme cold conditions then the 6061 from Black Betty is an excellent choice for ice fishing.

The rod would be horrendously imbalanced and you would probably get a tired arm. No need to invest in an enlarging cap!

How much line should I put on my ice reel? What if you could find a reel that actually felt soft and was custom shaped to fit into your hand? A large trigger allows you to drop the line at the flick of a finger, one handed. If you said the reel you would be exactly right. The levers could be a help or a hindrance depending on your style of fishing. It can easily be operated with one hand, the composite graphite frame construction making it very light and manageable. Known for Sitemap | Contact Me | About Bob Hoffmann | Affiliate Disclosure | Privacy Policy. The soft touch graphite body allows you to keep your hand touching the reel, which will aid in feel. Its time to put the summer fishing gear away for a few months and get yourself ready for some hardcore ice fishing. A little, youll get around 100ft if you use 3lb line, thats not bad, but we wouldnt recommend it for heavy work. It is really comfortable to hold for long periods. All of the inline ice fishing reels on this page are worthy of a mention in this best of list, but for me the 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall XL tops my list of inline ice fishing reels.

What is impressive about the Black Betty FreeFall XL inline reel is the excellent free-fall system that will smoothly drop even the lightest of jig heads down into the water, and the speed at which you can re-engage the connection to set the hook into a fish that takes the bait/lure on the drop. It is ideal for shallow to mid-depth fishing, which would be down to around 50 feet. Inline reels are super easy to use. Youll pay a premium, but youll also get premium quality. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Youll fit an unbelievable amount of line onto the spool. This reel is featherlight and adaptable to most fishing situations. Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel. Bob has spend most of his childhood fishing with his father and now share all his knowledge with other anglers. But 13 Fishing makes excellent inline reels, and this FreeFall Ghost is no exception. They dont need to hold as much line as it is unlikely you will be casting.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'bonfirebob_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_15',121,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bonfirebob_com-narrow-sky-2-0')}; With a smaller spool comes a smaller reel. Can you use a baitcasting reel for ice fishing?

When you hook into a fish you want it up and out of your ice hole as soon as you can. If you are jigging the line is fluttering and moving constantly. We suspect you would probably outgrow it with some experience. Provided that you care for it, the lightweight and hard-wearing aluminum body will last you a lifetime. An inherent feature of inline reels is that they dont twist the line.

Why not check both out, they are more affordable than you might think! 13 FISHING Black Betty Freefall Ghost Left Frabill Straight Line 371 Ice Fishing Reel in 15 Primitive Skills Every Survivalist Should Know, Great gearing which makes jigging in deep water easy, The useful gear ratio for fast jig retrieval, The free spool button for quickly dropping the jig into position, The drag wasnt as sensitive as we would have liked. TheBlack Betty FreeFall XLis ideal for deeper water ice fishing. I could write pages about how to do this, or I could just show you. Whilst this reel isnt jam-packed with features it has enough to be worthy of my list. If you have the budget and you want something that is guaranteed to work, then this will be a good choice. One thing I think could be improved with this reel is the handle, I find the knobs are a tiny bit too close together when compared with other reels, and I found it wasnt as easy to control with thick gloves on as on other inline reel models. Learn how your comment data is processed. I would strongly advise that you only fill about two-thirds of the spool with line. From panfish to monsters and anything in between. To show our appreciation we would like to offer you a spot on our list of FREE GIVEAWAYS. Im going to keep it simple. Youre going to need something compact and lightweight. The main benefits of inline ice fishing reels are that they have been designed specifically for vertical fishing and are ideal for ice anglers due to the one-hand operation and the ability to be able to drop even the lightest of jigs down into the water. If you prefer to put your rod down, then at the flick of a switch, the clicking bite alarm will let you know when you have a take. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishingmyway_co-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',138,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishingmyway_co-mobile-leaderboard-1-0')};Another great inline reel from 13 Fishing. If youve seen my review above, even the Black Betty Inline Reel (which I love) has got its weaknesses.

The large star drag is easy to adjust, and the micro drag adjustments give you much better control. This reel type is ideal for fishing in any depth of water, although you need to ensure if you want to fish in deep water you have a model with a larger spool so it will give you more line capacity. For the money, this reel will perform admirably and is super compact. You really dont need to overdo it. So, for a left-handed reel, you would be holding the rod with your right hand and turning the reel handle with your left hand. The only thing limiting the size of your catch will be the size of your ice hole as this reel has over 17.5lbs of stopping power. The handle folds, if you are traveling light or space is at a premium, youll be able to fit a little more into your tackle bag.