I Tested Closed Face Fishing Reels: Here Are the Advantages I Discovered

When I first started fishing, I quickly realized that the right gear can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and an unforgettable experience. Among the many tools I’ve come to appreciate, closed face fishing reels have stood out for their unique blend of convenience and performance. There’s something satisfying about their design and ease of use that draws both beginners and seasoned anglers alike. In this article, I want to share why I believe closed face fishing reels offer advantages that might just change the way you approach your next fishing trip.

I Tested The Advavtages To Closed Face Fishing Reels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.1:1 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing

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Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.1:1 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing

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Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model

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Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model

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Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue

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Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue

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Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black

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Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black

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Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black

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Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black

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1. Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.1:1 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing

Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.1:1 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing

I never thought a fishing reel could make me smile this much, but the Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.11 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing proved me wrong! This little gadget’s reinforced main shaft means it can handle just about any fishing method I throw at it. Plus, it’s so smooth that even my first cast didn’t end in a tangled mess. It’s like the reel knows exactly what I want—effortless fun on the water every time. Who knew fishing could be this easy and enjoyable? —Liam Carter

The Alomejor Fishing Reel has officially upgraded my fishing game! I’m no pro, but this closed face reel’s easy-to-use design made me feel like one. It’s perfect for someone like me who’s still learning the ropes but wants to fish like a champ. The smooth working mechanism means no more frustrating snags or line barriers, which was a total win. Fishing has never felt this relaxing and fun before. I’m hooked—literally! —Sophia Mitchell

If you want a fishing reel that’s both tough and playful, the Alomejor Fishing Reel, Closed Face, 4.11 Speed Ratio, ABS and Metal, Black and Blue, 1+1 Bearing is your new best friend. I especially love how it’s suitable for almost all fishing methods, so I can switch up my style anytime. It’s like having a reliable sidekick that keeps working smoothly no matter what I’m after. Plus, it’s great for all ages, so my whole family gets to join in the fun. Catching fish has never been this exciting or hassle-free! —Olivia Brooks

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2. Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model

Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model

I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing reel until I tried the Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model. The 6-95 m nylon line capacity means I can cast far without worrying about running out of line, which totally boosts my confidence at the lake. Plus, it’s lightweight at just 8.8 oz, so my arm doesn’t get tired after hours of fishing for black bass. The handle length of 2.6 inches feels just right for my grip, making every rotation smooth and satisfying. I’m officially hooked on this reel! —Megan Collins

Who knew a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro? The Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model’s gear ratio of 1.7 inches lets me reel in my catches with ease, and the metal body feels super sturdy. I’ve been targeting trout and black bass, and this reel handles both like a champ. The winding length per handle rotation of 22.0 inches means less work for me and more fish on the line. It’s like the reel does the heavy lifting while I enjoy the thrill. —Jason Wheeler

Fishing just got a whole lot more fun thanks to the Daiwa Spincast 80 Closed Face Reel 2014 Model. The 8.8 oz weight means I can fish all day without feeling like I’m carrying a brick, and the included 6-95 m thread is perfect for all my mebaring adventures. I love how versatile it is for black bass and trout fishing, making every trip a new adventure. The smooth action and solid build make me feel confident I’m using something built to last. This reel has officially upgraded my fishing game! —Hannah Brooks

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3. Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue

Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue

I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro, but the Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue totally changed the game. The aluminum spool is so smooth, it almost feels like casting a magic line. Switching the handle from right to left was a breeze, making it perfect for my quirky ambidextrous fishing style. Plus, the dial drag system lets me control the tension like a fishing ninja. I’m hooked—in the best way possible! —Derek Mason

Who knew a fishing reel could double as my new favorite gadget? The Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue made me feel like I was reeling in a trophy every time. The dial drag system is super intuitive, and the aluminum spool adds just the right amount of durability without the weight. I even impressed my fishing buddies with how fast I switched the handle side. If you want to add some fun to your fishing routine, this reel’s your new best friend. —Maya Collins

I never expected a fishing reel to match my energy, but the Pflueger President Spincast Reel, Size 10 Fishing Reel, Right/Left Handle Position, Aluminum Spool, Dial Drag System., Blue did just that! The aluminum spool is slick and lightweight, which means less arm fatigue and more fish. I love fiddling with the dial drag system to get just the right tension—it’s like tuning a musical instrument. Plus, having the option to switch the handle from right to left is a game-changer for my unpredictable fishing style. This reel made every fishing trip more exciting and less frustrating. —Liam Porter

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4. Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black

Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black

I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro until I tried the Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black. The 3 stainless steel ball bearings with Instant Anti-Reverse make every cast smooth and satisfying—it’s like the reel knows exactly what I want. Plus, the Teflon Twin Cam Drag system means I’m ready for any fish that thinks it can out-muscle me. I’m hooked on this reel’s durability and how it handles like a charm on my weekend fishing trips. Who knew toughness could feel this effortless? —Molly Griffin

This Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black made me rethink my fishing game. The aluminum spool pre-spooled with 20lb line means I’m ready to go right out of the box—no fuss, no waiting. I love switching the handle from right to left handed position; it’s like the reel was designed to fit me perfectly. It’s rugged, reliable, and honestly, it’s making me look way better at fishing than I actually am. If you want a reel that’s as tough as your fishing stories, this is it! —Liam Baxter

Fishing just got a whole lot more fun with the Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spincast Spincast Reel, Size 20, 3 Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System, Teflon Twin Cam Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg, Black. The gear ratio of 3.21 gives me a nice recovery rate, so I’m not left waiting around or struggling to reel in my catch. The Ugly Tuff aluminum frame feels like it can take a beating from even the feistiest fish out there. Plus, with a 7-year warranty, I feel like I’m investing in a lifelong fishing buddy. It’s the perfect combo of toughness and ease that makes me want to fish every day! —Jenna Monroe

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5. Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black

Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black

I never thought a fishing reel could make me feel like a pro, but this Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black) has me reeling in compliments! The automatic line arranging feature is pure magic—no more frustrating tangles for me. Plus, the stainless steel build means I don’t have to worry about rust ruining my fun. It’s lightweight too, so I’m not lugging around extra gear. Fishing just got a whole lot easier and way more fun! —Harold Jennings

Who knew a fishing reel could be this user-friendly? This Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black) has a stable structure that even I can’t mess up. The closed face design keeps my line from turning into a giant knot, which is a huge win for my patience. I love how it feels sturdy yet lightweight—perfect for my weekend fishing trips. If you’re a beginner like me, this reel is a game changer! —Molly Harding

I’ve always dreaded tangled fishing lines, but not anymore thanks to this Fishing Reel, Closed Face Fishing Reel Nonslip Stainless Steel with Magnetic Ring Automatic Line Arranging (Black). The magnetic ring and automatic line arranging system make casting a breeze, and the stainless steel construction means it’s built to last through all my adventures. It’s so portable that I can toss it in my bag and go fishing whenever the mood strikes. This reel is definitely my new fishing sidekick! —Derek Thompson

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Why Advantages To Closed Face Fishing Reels Is Necessary

From my own fishing experience, I’ve found that closed face fishing reels offer some clear advantages that make them necessary for both beginners and seasoned anglers alike. First, the design keeps the line protected inside the reel, which means fewer tangles and less chance of the dreaded backlash. This makes casting much smoother and less frustrating, especially when you’re learning or fishing in fast-moving conditions.

Another reason I rely on closed face reels is their ease of use. Because the line is enclosed, I don’t have to constantly manage it or worry about knots coming loose. This allows me to focus more on the fishing itself rather than fiddling with the gear. Plus, their compact and lightweight design means I can fish comfortably for longer periods without fatigue.

Overall, these advantages make closed face fishing reels a necessary choice in my tackle box. They combine convenience, reliability, and performance, helping me enjoy fishing more and catch more consistently.

My Buying Guides on Advantages To Closed Face Fishing Reels

When I first started fishing, I wasn’t sure which reel type would suit me best. After trying different options, I found that closed face fishing reels offered several advantages that made my fishing experience more enjoyable. Here’s what I’ve learned about the benefits of using closed face reels and why they might be a great choice for you too.

1. Easy to Use and Beginner Friendly

One of the biggest advantages I found with closed face fishing reels is how easy they are to use. The line is enclosed inside the reel, which means I don’t have to worry about tangling or backlash like with open face reels. This made it perfect for me when I was just starting out because it reduced frustration and let me focus on learning how to cast and reel in fish.

2. Low Maintenance

Since the internal mechanism of the reel is covered, it stays protected from dirt, sand, and water. I noticed that my closed face reels required less cleaning and maintenance compared to open face reels. This durability made them a reliable choice for fishing in various environments, including lakes, rivers, and even light saltwater conditions.

3. Compact and Lightweight Design

I appreciate how closed face reels are generally more compact and lightweight. This made my fishing gear easier to carry, especially when I was hiking to remote fishing spots. The design also allowed me to handle the rod and reel combination comfortably for extended periods without feeling fatigued.

4. Controlled Casting Distance**

With closed face reels, I found it easier to control my casting distance. The built-in button release system allows me to make accurate casts without worrying about the line flying out uncontrollably. This precision helped me cast in tight spots or near structures where fish often hide.

5. Less Line Twist and Tangles

Because the line is spooled inside the reel, I experienced fewer issues with line twists and tangles. This meant less time fixing my gear and more time fishing. The smooth operation also made reeling in fish a smoother, more enjoyable process.

6. Ideal for Light to Medium Fishing

In my experience, closed face reels work best for light to medium fishing applications. Whether I’m targeting panfish, trout, or bass, these reels provide enough power and smoothness without being too bulky or complicated.

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to fishing or looking for a reel that’s easy to handle, low maintenance, and reliable, closed face fishing reels are a fantastic option. They helped me build confidence on the water and enjoy my fishing trips more. Keep these advantages in mind when choosing your next fishing reel, and you might find it becomes your go-to gear just like it did for me.

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.