I recently picked up a new reel and it came with an aluminum spool and a graphite spool. So, what's the difference (other than material make-up)? What are the pro's and con's of each. What conditions would warant using which spool?
Take care,
David
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Hey there. If you read the side of the spools, you will see some of the line capacities that can fit on those spools. When I have purchased reels like that, I generally put the heavier line on the metal spool and lighter line on the graphite composite spool. It just makes sense.[cool]
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Hi there Nu2Fishagain,
I asume you're talking about a spinning or fixed-spool reel. Although.......A number of the high-end, freshwater bait casting reels have or are designed for a quick spool change. (easily removed sideplate)
For Spinning/fixed spool reels:
The aluminum spool is subject to pitting in saltwater, the graphite will not. The aluminum spool will hold up to stress better and be less subject to accidents where they can be chipped or broken. (suprisingly easy to do) Since the design is such and the reel is usually meant for low pound test line, it should not be a problem as it is with under-rated conventional or bait casting reels when fighting big, heavy fish with too heavy a line. The conventional reel spools literly explode... nasty.
For Convcntional or Bait Casting reels:
One other consideration is the weight of the spool. Not the weight of it itself but the weight/force needed to start a cast and keep the line from a professional over-run. Generally I'd use the lighter line tossing lighter lures with the graphite and just he opposite with the aluminum.
Hope this is helpful,
JapanRon
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