In the composition of fishing equipment, the reel is one of the key components, and its load-bearing capacity is a core factor that must be taken into consideration when choosing. This capacity not only directly affects the success rate of fishing, but also the safety of the angler and the durability of the fishing gear.

Basic concept of load-bearing capacity
Load-bearing capacity is usually defined as the maximum tension that the reel can withstand. In the actual fishing process, the weight of the fish, the tension applied, and the influence of the water flow will put the reel under great pressure. The load-bearing capacity is generally measured in pounds (lb) or kilograms (kg), and the design and material selection of the reel largely determine its load-bearing capacity.

Material selection
The load-bearing capacity of the reel is closely related to the material used. Common plastic materials include polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP) and nylon (PA), which have their own characteristics in terms of strength, toughness and durability:
Polycarbonate: Known for its high impact strength and heat resistance, it is often used in the manufacture of high-end reels.
Polypropylene: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for use in general waters, but its load-bearing capacity is relatively low.
Nylon: With good strength and elasticity, it is suitable for manufacturing high-strength reel components.
When choosing a reel, a deep understanding of the characteristics of the material will help anglers accurately judge its load-bearing capacity.

Design of the bearing system
The bearing system of the reel is one of the important factors affecting the load-bearing capacity. High-quality bearings can achieve smooth rotation and reduce friction, thereby improving the load-bearing capacity. Generally speaking, the number and quality of bearings are directly related to the overall performance of the reel:
Number of bearings: Multi-bearing design usually means better smoothness and load-bearing capacity, but it is not absolute. The key lies in the quality of the bearings.
Bearing material: Stainless steel or ceramic bearings are usually more durable than ordinary steel bearings and can withstand greater tension.
When choosing a reel, paying attention to the number and material of its bearings can effectively ensure reliability under high load conditions.

Effect of gear ratio
The gear ratio is an important parameter of the reel, which directly affects its tension and load-bearing capacity. The higher the gear ratio, the faster the reel can reel in at the same tension, but this may reduce its load-bearing capacity. Relatively speaking, low gear ratio provides greater drag force and is suitable for fighting heavier fish.
High gear ratio: suitable for fast reeling, especially for chasing fast-swimming fish.
Low gear ratio: more suitable for fighting big fish, can provide stronger load-bearing capacity.