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Centre Pin Fishing Reels

Centre pin reels, often referred to as “pins,” are the traditionalist’s choice for float fishing—offering unparalleled control, smooth free-running line release, and a timeless connection between angler and water. Used predominantly in river fishing for species like grayling, roach, chub, and barbel, centre pins allow you to trot a float naturally with the current, making them the reel of choice for purist anglers. Since 1988, we’ve helped anglers embrace this classic style with a handpicked selection of high-quality centre pin reels built for precision, balance, and a beautifully simple fishing experience.

Why Choose a Centre Pin Reel?

✅ Smooth, friction-free line release—perfect for float trotting on rivers
✅ Direct, hands-on control of the fish and line—no drag system
✅ Extremely durable with fewer moving parts than modern reels
✅ Classic look and feel—ideal for traditional coarse anglers
✅ Precise presentation of baits in flowing water

Centre pins offer a level of control that spinning reels can’t match, especially when managing natural bait drifts in moving water.

Key Features of Centre Pin Reels

FeatureWhy It Matters
Free-Spinning SpoolLets line flow off naturally, ideal for trotting a float with the current
No Internal Drag SystemControl is manual—your hand becomes the brake
Large Diameter (4–5″)Greater retrieval speed and longer line flow
Ball Bearing or Bush SpindleDetermines how freely the spool spins; bearings offer smoother performance
Backplate or Open FrameStyle preference—backplate reels offer added spool protection
Ratchet SwitchUsed to stop free-spooling when not fishing or during transport

Best Uses for Centre Pin Reels

  • Float fishing on rivers—perfect for trotting baits downstream

  • Fishing with light tackle for silverfish—roach, dace, and grayling

  • Barbel fishing on flowing rivers—especially with heavier pins and lines

  • Winter trotting sessions—where sensitivity and control are key

Top Centre Pin Reel Brands We Stock

  • J W Young – Legendary British craftsmanship and the gold standard for traditionalists

  • Greys – Modern centre pin designs with superb balance and handling

  • Okuma Aventa – Affordable entry-level pins with quality bearings

  • Raven & Kingpin – High-end Canadian and British pins for competitive and serious river anglers

  • Leeda Icon & Advanta – Great value for those new to centre pin angling

Choosing the Right Centre Pin Reel

  1. Fishing Style & Species

    • Light pins (4″) for silverfish trotting

    • Heavier pins (4.5–5″) for chub, barbel, or heavy line work

  2. Bearing vs. Bush Spool

    • Ball bearing reels spin longer and smoother—great for long trotting

    • Bush reels offer a traditional feel with more resistance (good for short-range work)

  3. Material & Finish

    • Aluminium or stainless steel for durability

    • Anodised finishes for corrosion resistance and aesthetics

  4. Weight and Balance

    • Lighter reels match better with match rods

    • Heavier reels suit stronger rods for barbel or heavier float work

Expert Tips for Using a Centre Pin

✅ Let the float take the line—don’t pull the line manually
✅ Use your fingers as a manual brake—especially during the fight
✅ Keep the reel clean and dry—grit can affect spool spin
✅ Match with a balanced float rod (12ft–15ft)
✅ Practice casting (Wallis cast or off-the-ground)—centre pins don’t cast like fixed spool reels

🧠 FAQ: Centre Pin Fishing Reels (10+ Questions)

1. What is a centre pin reel?
A manually operated fishing reel where the spool spins freely on a central axis, ideal for float fishing in rivers.

2. Are centre pin reels good for beginners?
Yes—especially for those learning to trot floats. However, casting with a centre pin takes practice (Wallis cast, etc.).

3. Can I use a centre pin for barbel fishing?
Absolutely. Many anglers use heavy-duty centre pins with strong lines for barbel on rivers like the Wye, Severn, or Trent.

4. What’s the best line for centre pin reels?
Use low-memory mono in 3–8lb range depending on species. Avoid braid—it doesn’t suit most centre pins.

5. How do I cast with a centre pin reel?
Most anglers use a Wallis cast or loop cast, allowing the float and bait to pull the line during the cast.

6. What’s the difference between a bearing and bush centre pin?
Bearing reels spin more freely, ideal for long drifts. Bush reels are more traditional, with slightly more resistance.

7. Do centre pins have drag?
No—you control the fish entirely with your hand, making it a more tactile and traditional experience.

8. What size centre pin reel should I buy?
For general trotting, 4″–4.5″ reels are perfect. Go 5″ for barbel or deeper water where more line is needed.

9. Can I use a centre pin for stillwater fishing?
Technically yes, but they excel in flowing water. On stillwaters, a fixed spool or feeder setup is usually more efficient.

10. How do I maintain a centre pin reel?
Keep it clean, dry, and dust-free. Occasionally oil the spindle or bearings with reel-specific lubricant.

11. Why do some centre pins have a ratchet?
The ratchet prevents the spool from free-spinning when not in use—handy during transport or when bait is static.

Tradition Meets Precision Since 1988

Centre pin fishing represents the art and tradition of coarse angling at its finest. We’ve been supplying and servicing centre pin reels for over three decades, helping anglers of all levels discover the unique joy of float fishing with a pin. Whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong trotter, we stock reels that balance heritage with modern engineering—ready to bring every drift to life.

🎣 Fish the flow. Feel every bite. Explore our centre pin fishing reels online or in-store today.

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