A fishing reel-also known as a line reel, line dispenser, or line winder (and historically referred to as a “fishing cart”)-is an essential piece of tackle for surf or sea fishing. At its core is a line-retrieval mechanism comprising components such as a handle, crank arm, spool, and drag system. Operating on the principle of crankshaft transmission, its primary function is to control the winding and unwinding of the fishing line.
Main Body (Housing/Frame): High-end and saltwater models typically use aerospace-grade aluminum, magnesium, or titanium alloys (offering high rigidity, corrosion resistance, and light weight); entry-level or lightweight models often use nylon composites reinforced with glass fiber or carbon fiber (impact-resistant and cost-effective, though slightly less rigid).
Spool: The vast majority are made of aluminum alloy (anodized for rust prevention); ultra-light finesse reels prioritize minimal weight (2–6g); some low-end or specialized models may use plastic or carbon fiber composites.
Gears: Brass is the preferred material for the main gear (durable and capable of handling heavy loads); aluminum alloy is a secondary choice (lightweight); low-end models may use zinc alloy (prone to wear; not recommended for high-load applications).
Other Components: Handle arms and knobs may be made of metal, soft TPE rubber, or engineering plastics; bearings are predominantly stainless steel (rust-resistant treatment is required for saltwater use).