The technical features in the spinning reels are increasing at the same speed as the craze for fishing. Right? But it may bring technical issues too. Therefore, most anglers want to know why a spinning reel spins in reverse sometimes.
Do you agree?
Obviously, you are looking for the same query. The truth is the level of complexity makes it a bit harder to operate. Reverting the spinning reel in a backward direction is not a common issue. Still, you must know how to fix it.
Therefore, in this article, we will focus on the same issue, it’s quick fixes and key reasons.
Are you ready? Great!
Let’s move to the main point.
Why Does a Spinning Reel Spin in Reverse Sometimes?

1- Observe the switch
Mostly, the problem arises due to an issue with the anti-reverse switch. In other cases, the whole switch is problematic. Keep in mind, it does not mean that your switch is broken.
In fact, the duty of this switch is to prevent back movement of the spinning reel while engaging the drag. Moreover, anti-reverse offers the drag therefore, you can pick drag or ignore it.
In fact, the key strategy is for back reeling as opposed to allowing drag to fight the fish. Therefore, always check the engagement of the anti-reverse switch.
If you are facing the same issue?
Okay, go for the other strategies
2- Find reason in the bail
The bail offers the entrance for the spool line. With the engaged bail, the spool does not get unwind. As you disengage the bail, it starts to release the line from the spool. For an anti-reverse, U-shaped wire has a great role.
Now, your reel has the capability to move forward and backward, still, it can do it at once.
Obviously,
In the closed position, the handle and spool would not move in the opposite direction. Yes, their movement will be in their respective direction as the bail is open. Therefore, you must be sure about the proper position of bail.
Wait! Is the bail see still moving in both directions?
Okay. The problem lies in the interior mechanism of bail. So, unscrew and remove it.
Yes,
It’s time to inspect internal parts to ensure their good condition. We can hear you have found any disturbed parts. Congratulations! You have found the heat of the problem. Now, fix it with guidelines from the manufacturer and all done.
3- Fix the drag
Sometimes, the disturbed drag may be the reason for the reverse reel direction. First of all, you must know that drag manages pressure from fish on the line. But, the drag can control it up to a certain limit.
As this limit exceeds, the drag fails to bypass the wrong direction of bail movement.
In addition,
As the fish applies more pressure, the reel male the line out of the spool and handle. As a result, the fish will fail to snap the line.
On the other hand, the discussed problem arises in the presence of low drag. Therefore, the fish makes the line out early with the result of the reel in the opposite direction. As a fix, you must calibrate the drag properly.
Apart from it,
The size of the fish in question must be kept in consideration. Furthermore, the drag must be clean and intact.
4- Anti-reverse issue
Another common reason that is responsible for reverse spinning is an issue with anti-reverse. The duty of anti-reverse is to stop the reverse movement of the reel. So, check the switch and it must be on. As a result, the reel will not move in reverse.
Obviously, unbroken anti-reverse performs its function well.
Persistent issue denotes that the anti-reverse is broken disturbing the whole system. Therefore, you can take the reel apart for fixing.
Final Words
The answer to the query on why a spinning reel spin in reverse sometimes; demands you must know details on the components. As a result, you will smoothly find the reason.
Finally, it will not move in reverse or both directions. No doubt, you will be able to find the reason and fix it. But, you should consult an expert to deal with complicated issues.
In the end,
After reading this article, we hope that you will be able to figure out the heart of reverse reel movement. Still, you may have some issues or questions. So, you are free to contact us in the comments section for an elaborated suggestion.
Have a nicer experience with the spinning reel and enjoy fishing every day!