Carp Reels

What is a Carp Reel?

A carp fishing reel is designed to deliver long, accurate casts, to control your line, and, most importantly, provide a smooth and powerful drag system. This is what allows you to absorb the powerful runs and sudden lunges of a hooked carp, tiring the fish without snapping your line. If you’re in for a long session or a heavy battle, a powerful reel will help you bring the carp safely to the net.

What Reel Should I Use for Carp Fishing?

The right carp reel depends on where and how you're fishing…

• Venue size & casting distance: For big lakes and extreme casting ranges, you need larger reels with larger spools. For smaller, more intimate waters or margin fishing, a more compact reel is perfectly suitable.
  
• Line diameter: Match your spool size to the line you prefer to use (thicker mainline calls for bigger reels to hold enough line).
  
• Rod length: Balance your carp fishing reel with the size of your rod. Heavy-end rods and distance setups pair best with larger reels and vice versa; short-light rods suit smaller reels.

What Size Reel is Best for Carp Fishing?

Reel size directly relates to its line capacity, power,  and overall weight. There isn't a single "best" size, as it's a balance of these factors and how they align with your fishing.

• Line capacity: Fishing at range often requires more line on the spool (e.g., 300-400 yards of 15lb line for long-range casting on big pits).
  
• Power: Larger carp reels generally offer more cranking power, which can be beneficial when playing large fish.
  
• Weight: Heavier reels have better inertia but can tire your arm during prolonged periods of casting. You need a balance that feels comfortable for you.

Types of Carp Reels Available at CPS Tackle

Big Pit Reels:
Built for maximum line capacity, big pit reels are ideal for fishing at range or tackling larger waters. These reels have strong drag systems that let you control how much resistance is applied once a carp takes the bait (essential for tiring out powerful carp).

Baitrunner Reels:
These reels feature a secondary drag system that allows the line to run freely when a fish takes the bait, preventing the rod from being pulled in and allowing cautious carp to pick up the bait without feeling immediate resistance.

Spod & Marker Reels: 
Spod reels are built tough to withstand the repetitive strain of casting heavy spods and marker floats, with fixed spools and high line capacities.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Carp Fishing Reel

• Spool Size: Spool size affects casting distance, line capacity, and retrieval speed -crucial factors when targeting big carp at range.
  
• Ball bearings: More ball bearings typically mean smoother performance while casting and playing fish.
  
• Line lay: Oscillating systems that lay line more evenly across the spool (reducing line wear and tangles) are crucial for consistent casting distance.
  
• Drag system: Smooth, consistent drag helps avoid sudden line snap or hook pulls. Look for reels with a quick-drag system for instant adjustment or a baitrunner (secondary drag system), which is helpful for bite indication.
  
• Handle design: A comfortable, ergonomic handle provides good grip and leverage during long plays.

Reputable Carp Reel Brands at CPS Tackle

When you buy from CPS Tackle, you're buying from a carp fishing shop that understands the real-world demands of angling. We stock top brands like Daiwa, Nash, Fox, Shimano, Sonik, and more because confidence in your reel’s performance on the bank is non-negotiable. We carry a wide range of angler-approved carp fishing reels that consistently deliver on quality and reliability across various price points. 

Why Shop for Carp Reels at CPS Tackle

With CPS Tackle, whether you shop in-store or online, our team is here to help, drawing on real angling experience to provide honest, practical advice. Whether you’re playing fish over long distances or need a balance of power and finesse, explore our selection of carp fishing reels to find the right reel for your setup and fishing style.