The trend in new fishing reels this year is toward products that are faster, more durable, less likely to backlash and easier to cast over longer distances. Several companies have also come out with reels that incorporate new designs or materials that allow them to be made smaller and/or lighter so they’re less likely to tire the user during hours-long fishing trips. The happy result is a new crop of fishing reels that are sure to rise to the top of your must-have list.

Here’s the inside scoop on some of these introductions, which include reels of every sort, from freshwater baitcasters and spinning reels to inshore and offshore saltwater gear and reels for fly-fishing.

ABU GARCIA
(AbuGarcia.com)
Abu Garcia is billing its new Cardinal 800 spinning reel as the most durable open-faced reel on the market. It’s built with high-performance gearing for strong, smooth retrieves, a smooth Carbon Matrix Drag System and aluminum alloy components. Armor Guard coating on the body and rotor prevents corrosion. In addition, the eight shielded stainless-steel ball bearings keep grit and salt crystals out. Five sizes are available -- larger sizes for tackling inshore saltwater species, and smaller sizes that are great for any freshwater fish.

Also new from Abu is the Revo series of low-profile baitcasting reels, the fastest the company has ever designed. They’re available in either 6.4:1 or 7.1:1 gear ratios and include linear magnetic-brake adjustments, brass gears and a Carbon Matrix drag. Another new high-quality, durable baitcaster is Abu’s Ambassadeur EXT. A one-piece X-Frame and aluminum side covers provide toughness while keeping gears and bearings aligned. The reel also features an Anti-Distortion Spool system that allows for easier distance casting.

ARDENT REELS
(ArdentReels.com)
Ardent’s new XS baitcasting reel is backlash-resistant and provides outstanding castability. A quick-release sideplate allows easy access to the centrifugal braking system, resulting in quick cast-control adjustments for various fishing conditions. Features include a continuous anti-reverse high-speed 6.0:1 gear ratio, great cranking power and a spool capacity of 120 yards for 12-pound-test monofilament. The XS is designed to fit easily in the palm of the hand, and the lightweight magnesium frame design contributes to fatigue-free fishing.)

BASS PRO SHOPS
(BassPro.com)
Bass Pro Shops’ newest reel is a flashy titanium-finish baitcaster, the Johnny Morris Elite. This beauty has lightweight alloy gears; 11 ball bearings; an aluminum frame and sideplates; a forged handle, spool and drag star; and a beefed-up drag system. It’s made for 10- to 20-pound-class angling, freshwater or inshore saltwater.

CABELA’S
(Cabelas.com)
The Tournament ZX baitcasting reel from Cabela’s features a slim, low-profile design and is built to withstand the rigors of hard use. A soft-touch black finish covers the lightweight machined-aluminum frame. An eight-bearing drive provides smooth cast-and-retrieve performance. The Tandem Cast Control uses magnetic and centrifugal brakes to prevent backlash. Trulon multi-disc drag puts the hurt on both freshwater and saltwater fighters. It also includes a titanium-shielded line guide and a flipping switch.