Purists and traditionalists will go off the deep end when they hear about electric reels. For some fishermen, electric anything is an abomination (unless, of course, it’s a trolling motor or a fish finder. Then they are strangely silent).
With that said, there is a time and place for an electric fishing reel, especially in saltwater. Here are a few redeeming attributes of electric models.
Precise Line and Depth Control
There are non-electric reels with line-counters and other similar controls, but nothing is as precise as an electric reel which can give precise measurements with respect to line out as well as depth.
This level of precise control can result in more accurate lure or bait presentation which will in turn yield greater success on the water.
Consistent Power and Control
Electric reels offer a mechanical advantage over mechanical-only reels, and that is that, as long as the battery lasts, they don’t get tired.
We all know that a moment of weakness, failing to put the pressure on a fish at a critical moment that allows slack in the line, can result in a devastating loss. That is something an electric reel can at least theoretically help you avoid.
Reduced Physical Strain
Also, electric reels let you keep more of your energy for when you need it. They do the hard work of cranking fish up to the surface so you can focus more on working the lure and whatever else commands your physical faculties.
And during long days on the water, that’s all worth more than just a little. Keeping your strength for when it’s most needed is critical.
More Accessible for Those with Disabilities
For better or worse, not all anglers are created equal, and some of us – who love being out on the water no less than anyone else – are afflicted with motor disabilities or other conditions that can make it painful if not impossible to use mechanical reels.
Electrical reels are the accessible option for these anglers and open up the bounty of the water to a larger sphere of sportsmen. If only for this reason, electric reels should be vindicated in your estimation.
Economy
Lastly, if you don’t care a jot for sport and are literally only on the water to fill the freezer, then there are few better alternatives (minus a trawler) than an electric reel.
These reels excel at winching fish, even larger fish, up to the surface, quickly, efficiently, and consistently. If it’s a matter of filling the cooler, electric reels can get the job done in short order.
Where to Learn More About the Virtues of Electric Reels
Interested in learning more about the quality electric reels that are available to you, what they cost, and how you need to take care of them in order to safeguard the investment?
Visit Johnny Jigs. They carry a wide range of high-quality electric reels as well as spinning reels and conventional slow pitch jigging reels from the top brands, including Daiwa, Shimano and Accurate. Check out their website and contact them directly for more information.
