Spinning Reels

• Spinning reels are those that hang below the handles of fishing rods. In addition, they have a metal bale that flips up to allow the line to be cast. Spinning reels are available in a wide range of sizes. Anglers who use them when targeting catfish should choose a reel with a spool of sufficient size to hold at least 150 yards of 15-pound test line. It's important for the reel to hold a lot of line because if you hook a big catfish, it could make a run and strip line from the reel.
  
  

Drag System

• Spinning reels have drag systems that are controlled by a knob on the top or the bottom of the reel. Select a reel with a drag controlled by a knob on top of the reel. These drags tend to work more smoothly and, for many anglers, are easier to adjust when fighting a fish. Most anglers keep their drags relatively tight when they are fishing and when they set the hook. But if you hook a big catfish, it is a good idea to loosen the drag while fighting the fish. Loosening the drag involves turning the drag knob counterclockwise.
  
  

Rods and Reels

• While a good spinning reel is a necessary part of the catfish rod and reel combination, it is a good idea to select a rod before choosing a reel. A long rod--7 feet or so--gives you more leverage over the fish. For catfish, a medium-heavy or heavy-action rod is best. Once you have selected a spinning rod, try a variety of spinning reels on it. The combination should feel balanced, and also feel good in your hands. Chances are you won't fish long if the rod and reel combination you use is uncomfortable.
  
  

Anti-reverse

• When anglers stop reeling some spinning reels--especially older models--the reel handle will move counterclockwise a quarter turn or so. This reduces tension on the line. Even though it is a small amount, it can affect how hard anglers are able to set the hook. The best catfish spinning reels have an anti-reverse feature that ensures that the handle does not turn backward at all. The result is a stronger hook-set.