BUYER GUIDE
Size 40 fixed spool covers most Wicklow shore work. Go smaller for float and LRF, larger only if you routinely cast 6oz plus on big surf.
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Saltwater reels need a sealed drag and enough line capacity for 150 to 200m of mono. Match reel size to rod: a 12ft beachcaster wants a 6000 to 8000 class reel, while a lure rod pairs cleanly with a 4000.
TOP PICK
Our hero pick for this category on the Wicklow coast.
Price checked 15 Jun 2026
Workhorse size for 12ft beachcasters and 3m lure rods. Anti-reverse, enough drag for smoothhound on clean sand.
COMPARE
Reels we pair with the rods in our other guides. Load with 15lb mono for general bait work unless you already fish braid.
| Item | Key spec | Price | Best for | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Ugly Stik Ugly Tuff Spinning Reel (Size 40) Hero pickUpdated 15 Jun 2026 | Size 40 | ~€69 | Beachcaster and lure rod pairing | AmazonBuy local at your nearest tackle shop |
Abu Garcia Cardinal X (combo reel) Updated 15 Jun 2026 | Mid-size spinning | ~€60 (combo) | Bundled starter combos | AmazonBuy local at your nearest tackle shop |
PENN Fierce IV Combo Reel Updated 15 Jun 2026 | Saltwater spinning | ~€90 (combo) | Heavier lure and beach combos |
FULL LIST
Short notes and buy links for each row in the table.
Price checked 15 Jun 2026
Ships on mid-range combos. Acceptable for pier and light beach if you buy a rod-and-reel kit together.
Price checked 15 Jun 2026
Heavier saltwater spinning reel on combo packages. Extra line capacity for longer casts on open beaches.
SAVE YOUR MONEY
Common purchases that do not help on Wicklow shore marks.
GO FISH
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