The Best Closed Face Reels Review And Buyer Guides

It comes down to two choices while choosing a fishing rod for everyday pastime sports. You can either go for an open-faced reel or closed face reel. However, closed face reels surpass the superiority and experience of using an open-faced reel.

While looking for the best closed face reel, you will find high-end products as well as affordable ones. If you are a young scout just exploring fishing, go for the cheaper closed face reels.

Though, experienced anglers have sufficient exposure to high-end brands of closed face reels. These reels are of premium quality and offer an ideal balance between efficiency and design. You should opt for a closed face reel that will provide years of seamless and exciting fishing trips.

In contrast to open-faced reels, closed face reels are known for their simplicity, versatility, and convenience. With the press of a single button, you can achieve a perfect cast in closed face reels.

If you wish to embark on a professional and advanced fishing journey, you need to find the right tool. Finding the right closed face reel can be challenging, given the countless products available in the market.

Our in-depth review and buying guide will help you pick the right tool to enhance your fishing experience.

Best Closed Face Reel Reviews

Zebco Omega Pro

The smooth casting offered by Zebco Omega Pro is perfect for kids and beginners to start their fishing journey. The easy to use features and solid construction makes it a known name among experienced anglers. It is one of the best fishing tools for amateurs and professional anglers.

The aluminum construction will keep it free from corrosion and enhance its longevity. The ZO3PRO model is 20% lighter and efficient than the standard Zebco Omega ones. The premium components and a seamless 7-bearing drive will provide you with years of service.

To enhance your fishing experience further, the ZO3PRO model also comes with an additional dual-paddle handle and spare spool.

Fuel your spirit of adventure with this renowned fishing tool from Zebco. The ergonomic design and brass pinion gear will help you to get the perfect grip while fishing. The anti-reverse clutch and dedicated thumb button will ensure instant action underwater. You can easily configure the settings to change it to the right or left-handed retrieve. 

Never miss out on your target with the quick-change oscillating spool of Zebco Omega Pro Spin-cast Reel. This powerful closed face fishing reel comes with a pre-spooled 10-pound fishing line. It ensures an easy casting with its 6+ clutch system and 19-inch retrieve.

The all-metal body is a bonus to the overall premium features. The spin cast promises an elevated and promising fishing experience to its customers. 

Secure all your catch with the smooth anti-reverse gear and instant touch button. Set a new goal for angling success with the Zebco Omega Pro Spin-cast Reel. It offers versatile use with promising durability. 

Top Features 

• Multi-disk triple-cam drag system
• Ceramic guide with aircraft-grade aluminum coating 
• 3x favorable pickup mechanism 
• Auto bait technology
• Metal gears with oscillating spools

Pros

• Durable, corrosion-free, and easily interchangeable retrieval design
• Robust drag power and works effectively even for big creatures, including catfish, bass, etc.
• Easy to use touch thumb and smooth casting facilities 
• Aluminum-coated body to ensure better durability.

Cons

• The fitting of the spool on the rod can be a bit tight.

Pflueger PRES10SCX President Reel

This is one of the best-closed face reels for ensuring greater value for money. The Pflueger PRES10SCX President model offers unmatched durability owing to its aluminum frame.

The metal body will help you to align the gear with great precision. The instant anti-reverse technology will enable quick or instant hooks with minimum missed targets.

It is the best-selling model of the Pflueger president reels line due to its durability and versatility. Whether you are an expert angler or a beginner, this closed face reel from Pflueger is a win-win one.

It promises an exciting and memorable fishing experience to its users. The state-of-the-art design and commendable features make it worth every penny. 

It offers robust performance at an affordable price. It is a smart choice for all anglers around the world owing to its five ball bearings. It delivers a seamless fishing experience to keep you rolling throughout.

The world-class technology of Pflueger promises minimal to zero rolling friction while dragging fish underwater. Reel with ease and land a big creature by purchasing the PRES10SCX President model. 

The robust built will endure all wear and tear without breaking down. The aluminum frame holds the gears in place to help you catch your target with ease. The machined front cone and dual titanium pins speak of its promising durability.

It is corrosion and wear-resistant with aircraft-grade aluminum built. The smooth rubber knob is soft to touch and delivers greater control. The reel provides a comfortable grip and high traction to facilitate the easy landing of your catch.

Top Features 

• Aluminum core and frame
• Dual titanium pins to protect the reel’s line 
• Spool applied drag and metal handle
• Five bearing system with minimal wear and tear
• Anti-reverse system

Pros

• Durable and incredible delivery service
• Rugged construction to endure every day’s wear and tear
• Smooth casting with minimal friction
• It offers easy tuning in of your spool by adjusting the drag dial
• Set instant hooks by using the instant anti-reverse technology
• Smooth retrieval and rotations 

Cons

• The essential parts may fall off without proper locking

Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Fishing Reel

If you are looking for a cheap, closed face reel with incredible efficiency, then this Zebco 33 micro spin-cast model is a steal. It offers premium quality features irrespective of its low price. It comes with a metal body and an in-built holder to secure your big catch.

It works well on both sides and conceals the hook point to attract more targets to your fishing reel. The gear train mechanism and improved design will boost your confidence while fishing.

The incredible bearing support and superior durability make it a top favorite of all the anglers. It delivers a smooth operation owing to its high-quality reels. Zebco has integrated optimum control and improved line retrieval features in this 33-micro spin-cast model.

It also ensures better casting and easy landing of big targets due to its robust gear. The gear train system delivers a smooth and top-notch fishing experience.

The micro drag design facilitates precise and enhanced adjustments. It is a great tool for learners due to its smooth reeling feature. It is an incredible reel for freshwater fishing due to the lightweight design. It is convenient and easy to use for kids and beginners.

The sturdy grip and long-lasting metal body is a blessing considering the price. The five bearings are helpful while retrieving or casting.  

Top Features 

• Aluminum core and graphite frame
• Ball-bearing drive
• Built-in alert of fish bite
• Micro-fine drag that is easily adjustable

Pros

• Robust metal body with durable construction
• Easy and smooth casting features
• Continuing instant anti-reverse system
• Protects from corrosion and rust
• Change between right or left-hand retrieval

Cons

• The button may get stuck while releasing 

Daiwa Goldcast Spin-cast GC100 Reel

The incredible reel from Daiwa boasts of fine built and professional fishing experience. The premium construction and oscillating spool will make you fall in love with it immediately. The Daiwa Goldcast model is the best-selling closed face reel due to its precise winding level.

It also guarantees an unmatched casting experience and improved longevity. The incredible line aperture and lightweight design ensure easy handling of the tool. 

Work effortlessly with the Daiwa Goldcast model. The multi-disc drag and nose cone are notable features of this amazing fishing reel from Daiwa. People with small-sized hands will find this reel convenient to use.

The Daiwa Goldcast offers a perfect balance between quality and price. It provides great control and is one of the best tools for trotting. It has relatively quick retrieval with a higher gear ratio.

The single ball bearing will provide a satisfying smooth experience with a better responsive retrieve. The durable metal built and precise level winding is a bonus for the customers.

The micro-fine adjustments will help you put in the perfect setting to enjoy easy drags. It offers a smooth drag and professional-quality tackle features. It is ideal for kids, learners, or even professional anglers.  

Top Features

• Lightweight with an 80/10-line capacity 
• It offers an incredible gear ratio of 4.1:1
• Single Ball-bearing system
• Professional level line per handle turn of 20.8′

Pros

• Fast retrieve and precision winding 
• Stainless and stiff line guide
• Metallic body with sturdy built
• Warranty of three years to ensure its quality
• An affordable tool with commendable features

Cons

• One ball bearing
• The body needs to be cleaned regularly

KastKing Brutus Spin-cast Fishing Reel

Start a hassle-free fishing journey today with the KastKing Brutus Spin-cast model. KastKing brings commendable performance and exceptional value together in a single product. The state-of-the-art features will excite all experienced anglers as well as beginners. The high-quality components and anti-reverse technology will boost your fishing level. 

The double-shielded ball bearings and stainless-steel parts will ensure no rust or corrosion. It allows you to set quick hooks and instantly follow up on your casts. The dual pick up rich pins will grab all creatures, big or small.

Brutus also comes with a high gear ratio of 4:1, which is a great steal in comparison to its price. The 11lbs drag system ensures a seamless operation and maintains light lines. 

It is great for fishing, boat fishing, bass fishing, pan fishing, trout fishing, and others. It is designed for all anglers with easy switching from left to right retrieve or vice-versa.

You need to remove the handle’s retainer cap and move the handle to the alternate side to match your retrieving style. The double paddle design of the handle and rubber grips offers the ideal balance.

It is easy to use, and you don’t need to continually look for the handle while fishing. It comes with a pre-spooled tool to facilitate the easy dragging of your catch. The premium monofilament KastKing fishing line speaks of its exceptional value and quality.

The higher line capacity will help you achieve longer casts even under deep water. It is equally efficient in catching bulky or big fishes. 

Top features

• Graphite frame and high-speed gear ratio 
• 11 lbs. drag system 
• Braid Line and Mono Line capacity
• 15.75 Inch per turn

Pros

• Incredibly smooth opening line aperture
• Smooth casts with minimum or zero tangles
• Reel and spin-cast rod combo with classic honeycomb design
• Fingertip 11lbs controlled drag to ensure easy operation
• Easy thumb switch that offers quick release
• The five stainless steel body offers maximum smoothness
• The reversible handle and rubber grip ensure optimum performance

Cons

• The parts may often be loose fitted

Magreel Spin-cast High-Speed Fishing Reel

Magreel provides another affordable closed face reel that meets the fishing standards. It has a standard 6lb line capacity with a pre-spooled line. With the dual pick up mechanism and top-notch gear ratio, this model from Magreel is a great buy for all anglers.

It offers smooth retrieval functions and convenient use. You can interchange the right and left-hand positions to suit your fishing needs.

The aluminum alloy spool with stainless steel and Teflon brake pads ensure better drag. The PVC knob is easy to operate and stays in position throughout the fishing time. It comes with a six double sealed bearing made of stainless steel.

The exquisitely crafted design will provide a smooth casting with minimal underwater friction.

Top features

• A high-speed gear ratio of 4.3:1
• It comes with a 5kg/11lb maximum drag feature 
• Quick-release thumb switch 
• Monofilament pre-spooled line 

Pros

• The scientifically designed thumb facilitates easy thumb switch 
• It prevents all line tangles and minimizes underwater resistance
• The flexible and easy drag will adjust to all situations
• It allows tightening of the loose lines to get ready continually for the next cast

Cons

• It is quite bulky compared to other closed face reels

WataChamp Bees High-Speed Fishing Reel

• 🐟DUAL PICKUP ROLLER PINS---Lengthened double stainless steel pick-up pins ensure WataChamp Bees...
• 🐟HIGH PERFORMANCE 6S.S.D. Ball Bearings --- WataChamp Bees fishing reel is configured with 5...
• 🐟HIGH SPEED, HIGHT CATCH RATE--WataChamp Bees Spincast Reel has a 4.3:1 gear ratio which can...
• 🐟LEFT/RIGHT INTERCHANGEABLE HANDLE---WataChamp Bee Spincast Reel is equipped with a left/right...
• 🐟FISHING REEL SUITABLE FOR FAMILY MEMBERS USE- WhtaChamp bees fishing reel has a EASY TO USE...

Buy on Amazon

WataChamp Innovation offers excellent and high-quality fishing gear dedicated to all anglers. It comes with an economical price and super durable, built to benefit their fishing pastime. It provides a 5+1 double shield stainless steel ball-bearing with a super smooth IAR.

The carbon drag washer and superior grab system will help you set new fishing standards. It comes with several notable features, including a sure cast system, tangle-free silent line management, and zinc alloy spool.

The interchangeable handle will meet your fishing specifications. It offers a silent reel cranking feature with zero tangle problems. 

The WataChamp Bees minimizes troubleshooting and organizing time. The WataChamp Bees closed face reel comes with an aluminum and graphite front cone. With an aluminum die-cast spool, stainless steel rotor, and EVA knob, this reel is a star product. 

Top features

• An incredible gear ratio of 4.3:1 
• Dual pickup solid rolling pins
• High-speed performance with five pieces of stainless steel
• Interchangeable handles
• Lightweight and easy to use, the button

Pros

• It allows you to scan the area of the water field quickly 
• The line stays tight even when you are retrieving
• Inner ring and extruded rib help to press the line quickly
• It minimizes line abrasion and grabs all kinds of fish easily
• It offers a smooth one-way clutch with instant access
• It great for all family members due to its smooth release button

Cons

• The reeling action may get sticky under certain circumstances 

Buying Guide for Best Closed Face Reel

Why Is A Closed Face Reel Popular? 

Spin-cast reel or closed face reel helps to reduce the resistance problem faced in baitcasting structures. It minimizes snare issues and line twists faced by other fishing rods. Most closed face reels come with a pre-spool line to boost the user experience. 

It uses smaller spools and convenient line capacities to make the reel manageable and easy to use. Such reels are usually small and lightweight to facilitate a smooth fishing experience. It minimizes the restrictions to deliver long-distance or deep-sea fishing. 

These reels are smooth, small, and affordable compared to other fishing rods. People of all ages and expertise can benefit from closed face reels.

How Do Closed Face or Spin-Cast Reels Work?

In a Spin-cast reel, the fishing line is not exposed like other fishing rod systems. It is kept closed and secured inside the cone of the spin-cast reel. The nose cone has a pin structure that aligns the line throughout.

While fishing, you need to press a button that will release the pin enabling the line to separate from the spool. 

When you release the button, the pin will re-engage with the spool and retrieve the line. The spool is kept covered, and a hole is placed to allow the line to enter or exit.

Open line reels have no nose cone, and hence the line stays exposed. Closed face reels are more beginner-friendly due to its closed or static structure.

What Are the Essential Specifications of a Closed Face Reel?

There are three essential specifications of every closed face reel. The first thing to look for is the reel size. The reel size will determine the amount of line on the spool of your closed face reel.

The second important consideration is the line recovery rate. The reel’s gear ratio determines the recovery rate of your Spin-cast tool. 

A higher gear ratio promises a faster-retrieving function but offers reduced cranking power. A gear ratio of 4.3:1 delivers less power with more incredible speed. In contrast, a reel with a gear ratio of 2.6:1 will provide slow retrieving functions but enhanced power. 

The last essential specification consists of the bearings. Closed face reels with more ball bearings will offer more seamless operations and vice versa. 

The other important specifications include —

Corrosion and Rust Resistance 

Fishing tools are in frequent touch with hard or salty water. Hence it makes them more prone to damage and corrosion. It is advisable to always opt for a closed face reel that is resistant to corrosion or rust. 

Spin-cast reels with aluminum built are ideal for use in salty water or hard water. However, a pure aluminum reel will cost you more. If you want an affordable closed face reel that is corrosion free, choose a model with a mix of graphite and aluminum.

Robust Built 

Plastic spin-cast reels are cheaply built and offer less value for money. The best-closed face reels will be a mix of graphite and aluminum. Closed face reels with pure graphite or aluminum construction are usually expensive. 

If you are looking for stable housing, then aluminum will be the best choice. However, it is less versatile and pricier than graphite built. In contrast, graphite is easy to manage and lightweight. If you want to engage in fishing for long hours, then graphite will serve your purpose correctly.

You should always avoid plastic spin-cast reel at all costs. Many aluminum and graphite reels are budget-friendly. You should check the quality of the nose cone as well as the internal mechanisms.

Line Capacity and Gear Ratio

The best quality closed face reels usually hold 80-120 yards of reel’s line. The bigger the size of your reel, the more will be the line capacity. Determine the line capacity that will serve your purpose while buying a closed face reel.

The gear ratio of a closed face reel determines the overall fishing experience. A Spin-cast reel with a higher gear ratio will generate a better retrieval rate but offer reduced power. You need to decide whether you want more control or better retrieving functions.

Drag and Brake System

The structure of closed face reels doesn’t facilitate high drag and brake power. Spin-cast reels are more suited for easy fishing and light lines. You should try both the wheel assembly and star drag system before deciding on a particular reel. Check which system allows you to customize your settings as per your needs.

Warranty and Price

You don’t need to buy the most expensive closed face reel for achieving a great fishing experience. You should look for a spin-cast reel that has all the essential features yet meets your budget.

Another important consideration is the warranty period. Most closed face reels provide a one-year warranty, whereas some premium brands can provide up to three years of warranty.

FAQs

Can a closed face reel facilitate a braided fishing line?

Yes. You can use monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon fishing line on a closed face or spin-cast reel. However, while using a fishing line of your choice, you need to make sure that the fishing line is not too bulky.

Closed face reels are usually lightweight fishing tools and are delicate enough. Light lines are ideal for spin-cast fishing reels. Always opt for a monofilament that ranges between 6-11 lbs. test.

How to Choose the Ideal Fishing Line for my Closed Face Reel?

The right fishing line is one that will be sturdy enough yet not too bulky or large. The diameter of the fishing line should be in proportion with your closed face reel.

A premium quality monofilament of 10-11lbs will serve the best fit. Closed face reels are suited to light lines and easy fishing. However, you can also land huge fishes with closed face reels.

What are the problems faced while using a closed face reel?

The only common issue faced while using a closed face reel is keeping the line tight throughout. If the line gets loose or twisted, the reel can become jammed. However, you can quickly fix the problem by taking off the nose cone and replacing it again.

Another issue is that the cheaper plastic reels may break after a few uses. It is advisable to go for a well-built closed face reel.

How do I maintain my closed face reel to increase its longevity?

After every use, make sure to rinse your reel correctly. Clean it with freshwater inside out and later wipe it with a cloth. You can also apply any cleansing liquid to the moving part and then dry it.

If you want to enhance its longevity further, you can disassemble the reel occasionally. Use a thin, angular brush to remove all built up to ensure meticulous care. 

Endnotes

Closed face reels are popular due to its simplicity and easy to use features. It is ideal for beginners and kids. Also, it can be used by anybody who needs to have some ease on fishing. Zebco is a market leader in the industry of closed face reels. The Omega Pro model of Zebco meets all essential features and is a masterpiece in fishing.

Closed face reels are durable, cost-effective, and functions effectively even under pressure. The premium spin-cast reels offer instant anti-reverse and smooth retrieval functions. Consider all essential specifications and price range before deciding on your choice of closed face reel.

Among these top picks, choose the best closed reel which caters to your needs!

Tight Lines

This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI