A Guide to the All-Round Workhorse: The Medium Reel
Choosing a medium spinning reel is about matching its capabilities to your primary targets. This size class demands a step up in build quality, drag performance, and overall durability to handle larger, more powerful fish. This guide will help you make the right choice.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"You can't be an avid Illawarra angler without at least one medium-sized reel in your kit! Personally, I have several, including a range of Penn Slammer 4000s and Shimano Saragosa 5000s. They're the perfect size for chasing snapper just offshore, targeting mulloway in the Shoalhaven, and they make a great light beach spin reel too. The medium-sized reel is the true all-rounder, just as effective on southern salmon as it is on northern barramundi."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner of Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm)
Understanding Medium Reel Sizes
- 4000 Size: The perfect bridge between heavy estuary and light offshore. A 4000 is an excellent choice for casting soft plastics and lures for snapper, fishing for big flathead in deep water, or as a light surf reel for salmon and tailor.
- 5000 Size: The quintessential Australian all-rounder. This is the standard size for snapper fishing on inshore reefs around the country. It has the line capacity and drag power needed for most boat-based fishing and is a top choice for casting lures from the rocks.
- 6000 Size: The entry-point to heavy-duty angling. A 6000 size reel is considered a cross over between medium to large and has the extra line capacity and stronger gearing needed for targeting smaller kingfish, school tuna, and mackerel. It's also a popular choice for anglers chasing large mulloway from beaches and breakwalls.
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Expert Tips for All-Round Angling
- Local Knowledge Tip: The Power Handle Advantage. Many medium-sized reels come with a larger, T-bar or round power handle knob. This provides a more comfortable and secure grip, giving you significantly more leverage and cranking power when you're hooked up to a strong, stubborn fish.
- Line Choice Matters: This is the size where you can take full advantage of braided line. Spooling a 5000 reel with 20-30lb braid gives you a thin, sensitive line for detecting bites and a high breaking strain for fighting big fish. Always use a quality fluorocarbon leader.
- Match the Rod: To get the most out of your reel, balance it correctly. A 4000-5000 size reel is perfectly matched to a 7-foot rod rated for 5-10kg line. A 6000 size reel suits a slightly heavier 6-8kg or 8-12kg rod for extra stopping power.
Why Buy from Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm)?
Since establishing our business in 2001, we've focused on helping anglers find that perfect all-round setup. We know that a medium-sized reel is often the most significant reel purchase an angler will make. That's why our selection is built on a foundation of reliability and real-world performance, stocking only the reels from trusted brands that we know can handle the diverse and demanding nature of Australian inshore and offshore fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best all-round reel size for snapper fishing?
A 5000-size spinning reel is the perfect choice for snapper. It provides the ideal balance of line capacity for fishing in common depths (20-50m), a strong drag for handling big reds, and it balances perfectly on the popular 7-foot, 5-10kg snapper rods.
What's the main difference between a 4000 and 5000 size reel?
In many brands, a 4000 and 5000 reel will share the same body, but the 5000 will feature a deeper spool with greater line capacity. This makes the 5000 a better choice for deeper water or if you need to use a heavier line class for bigger fish.
Can I use a 5000 size reel for beach fishing?
Yes, a 5000 or 6000 size reel is an excellent choice for medium beach fishing for salmon, tailor, and school-sized mulloway. Paired with a 10-12 foot surf rod, it provides good casting distance and has the capacity to handle a decent run.
Do I need a high-speed reel for this size class?
If you primarily cast lures for pelagic species like salmon, tailor, or tuna, a high-speed (high gear ratio) reel is a significant advantage for keeping your lure moving fast. For bottom fishing with bait, a standard gear ratio provides better torque for lifting heavy sinkers and fish.