Are All Spinning Reels Reversible? Everything You Should Know
Most of the spinning reels allow you to change the reel handle from one side to another, which makes them reversible.
But unfortunately, if you ponder are all spinning reels reversible, then you must know that it isn’t a universal rule that all reels must be reversible.
There are some spinning reels that are not reversible. So, if you have got one, then you won’t be able to switch the reel handle.
In this post, we will be discussing how you can identify if a spinning reel is reversible, how you can reverse a spinning reel, and why you need to do it.
Are all spinning Reels reversible? Identifying a reversible reel
As I mentioned above, not all spinning reels are reversible. Hence, if you want to buy a reversible spinning reel, you will have to identify it.
Fortunately, the identification process is very easy. All you have to do is take a look at the specifications or observe the dust cap on the opposite side of the reel handle.
If there is a dust cap, simply remove it to see if there is a place to screw the reel in. The dust cap indicates that the spinning reel is reversible.
If there is no dust cap on the other side of the reel handle, it means that the spinning reel is not reversible.
Although most modern spinning reels are reversible, there are still some models that do not feature this reversibility.
Also, if you have an older model of a spinning reel, there is a high chance it won’t be reversible.
Check Why Does My Reel Keep Spinning?.
How to Reverse a Spinning Reel? Changing Reel Handle Side
Changing the side of the reel handle is a quite simple process. Follow these steps to change the reel handle from one side to another.
Step 1: Open the Dust Cap
Look for a dust cap on the opposite side of the reel handle. Remove it with your hands. If it doesn’t come off, you can use a sharp object to open it.
Step 2: Unscrew Reel Handle
You don’t need any tools to unscrew the handle. You can do it manually. If the reel handle is on the left side, you can unscrew it by turning it in a clockwise direction. If the reel handle is on the right side, then you can do it in the anti-clockwise direction.
Step 3: Switch Reel Handle to the Other Side
Insert the reel handle in the place from where you took off the dust cap, and then screw it in.
You will have to screw in the same direction, in which you unscrewed the handle on the other side. Once you screw the reel handle in, you can start using it.
Step 4: Place the Dust Cap
Remember! You must place the dust cap on the spot from where you take off the reel handle. The dust cap is responsible for sealing the area, so no dust or moisture gets in from there.
So, now you can clearly see that changing the reel handle on a spinning reel is a really easy process. Just follow the above steps, and you will change the reel in no time.
Check How Do I Stop My Reel From Spinning Backwards?
Why Do You Need to Reverse Spinning Reel?
There are two reasons why you would need to change the direction of your reel handle.
Most people in the world are right-handed, which means you won’t find many items designed for left-handed people in the market.
So, if you are left-handed, it means your left arm is dominant and you will need reels designed specifically for your needs.
Reversible spinning reels take care of the problem by enabling you to change the direction of the reel handle.
You can easily change the direction of the reel handle on a spinning reel to make it accustomed to your personal preferences.
On the other hand, even if you are not left-handed you might need to reverse the reel to be more efficient in fishing.
Usually, you cast with your dominant hand, and if you are also accustomed to reeling with your dominant hand, then you will have to switch hands after casting.
If you train your less-dominant hand for reeling and switch the reel handle to the non-dominant arm, then you won’t have to switch hands after casting.
Hence, you will be able to fight the fish and handle the rod with your dominant arm and reel the spinning reel with your less dominant arm.
Of course, there will be a bit of a learning curve, and you will need plenty of practice before your less-dominant hand becomes accustomed to this.
But, to your benefit, spinning reels have larger retrieval handles which makes it easier to reel in.
Check What Size Spinning Reel Should I Get?
Are Baitcasting Reels Reversible?
No, you cannot reverse the reel handle of a baitcasting reel. They come with dedicated reel handles for left-handed and right-handed users.
So, if you have purchased a right-handed baitcasting reel and want to switch it to the left-side, there is no technical way to do it, unless you are an engineer and can change the whole design of the model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrapping Up!
Since most people are assumed to be right-handed, spinning reels come in right-handed designs. But that doesn’t mean you have to purchase a left-handed spinning reel if you want to reel with your left hand.
Most modern spinning reels come in a reversible design and the reel handle can be easily switched from one side to the other.
Yes, there are some older models that are not reversible. You can’t change the reel handle on those ones.
We have shared a step-by-step guide to help you change the reel handle from one side to the other. Always remember to seal the dust cap to ensure the safety of your spinning reel.
Got any questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.