In this video Jason Mitchell breaks down the differences between spooler reels and spinning reels.
The premise of a spooler or “inline reel” is that it has less line twist compared to a traditional spinning reel. However, line twists occur in both of these reels, so the idea that one has line twist and the other doesn’t, is a myth.
- Therefore, when should you use a spinning reel versus a spool reel?
- What are the applications for each reel?
Mitchell uses a spinning reel the majority of the time. Roughly 70% of his panfishing is done with a spinning reel. The reason being is that it allows the bait to get up and down quicker which maximizes efficiency.
However, he likes to use a spooler or inline reel on tough finesse bites where he is fishing really small jigs and light line. This makes it easier to work the bait down really slowly to the fish and hang that jig still. In these conditions the inline reel shines.
One reel isn’t necessarily better than the other. They complement each other and are two different tools to have in your panfish arsenal this season.


