Reviews & Where To Buy
A high performing budget priced reel
Great for beginners
Featured in our guide on the best float fishing reels
| Feature | What This Means |
|---|---|
| Impact Resistant Graphite Body | A durable body construction using reinforced graphite material that can withstand knocks and bumps commonly encountered during fishing trips. This provides excellent protection for the internal components whilst keeping the overall weight down. |
| Micro Adjustable Front Drag | A precision drag system located at the front of the reel that allows for extremely fine adjustments to the pressure applied to your line. This level of control means you can set the perfect resistance for playing fish of different sizes and strengths, reducing hook pulls and line breakages during crucial moments. |
| Smooth, Reliable Gearing System | A well-engineered internal gear mechanism designed for consistent, judder-free operation over extended periods. This ensures smooth retrieves when playing fish or bringing back feeders, maintaining performance even under load and extending the working life of the reel. |
| High Quality Metal Line Clip | A robust, line-friendly clip that securely holds your line at a set distance without causing damage. This is particularly important for match and feeder fishing where consistent casting to the same spot is essential, allowing you to hit your target area with precision cast after cast. |
| 5.0:1 Gear Ratio | A standard gear ratio that provides a good balance between power and speed. For every complete turn of the handle, the rotor makes 5 complete rotations, offering versatility across various fishing scenarios from float fishing to feeder work, without sacrificing cranking power. |
| Size-Specific Line Retrieve | The amount of line collected with each handle turn increases with reel size (75cm for 320, 85cm for 420, and 95cm for 520). This progressive increase gives you options based on your fishing style, with larger models offering faster retrieval rates for covering more water or fishing at longer ranges. |
| Graduated Weight System | Each model size has a purpose-appropriate weight (291g for 320, 368g for 420, and 375g for 520). The smaller model prioritises lightness for frequent casting and delicate presentations, while the larger models offer increased stability when handling heavier loads or stronger fish. |
| Consistent Line Capacity | All three models share the same line capacity of 0.26mm/150m. This uniform approach means you can choose your reel size based on your preferred handling characteristics and retrieval rate, rather than being restricted by line capacity requirements. |
| Multiple Size Options | Available in three progressive sizes (320, 420, and 520) to match different fishing requirements. The 320 is ideal for lighter match work, the 420 offers versatility for mixed methods, and the 520 provides the power and line pick-up speed needed for longer-range feeder fishing. |
The Preston Inertia Match Reel is a budget offering, tailored for anglers who enjoy float fishing but don’t want to break the bank.
It is available in different sizes, catering to various fishing needs, but its most popular models with coarse fishermen include the Inertia 320 and 420.
Positioned as a reliable choice for anglers who seek solid performance without venturing into premium prices, the Inertia Match Reel has gained popularity in the angling community for its combination of ease of use, functionality, and durability.
Physically, the reel features a lightweight graphite body, making it easy to handle. Weighing in at 320 grams for the Inertia 420, it strikes a good balance between portability and robustness.
This weight is competitive for its class, with other reels in the same price bracket often being bulkier.
The single handle is ergonomically designed, ensuring a comfortable grip even in wet conditions, however, it’s not quite as advanced as some premium quick-fold mechanisms.
That said, the overall construction of the reel feels solid and reliable, with its corrosion-resistant body ensuring it can endure varying weather conditions without excessive wear.
The reel is packed with technical features that appeal to a wide range of match-style anglers. The gear ratio of 5.0:1 offers a well-rounded performance, providing a good mix of retrieve speed and power.
This ratio, while not the fastest on the market, is perfectly suited to most coarse fishing applications, allowing for versatility in different conditions.
The reel is equipped with 5+1 ball bearings, offering a smooth operation during both casting and retrieving. While some higher-end models may include more bearings for ultra-fluid performance, the Inertia’s configuration delivers a satisfactory smoothness that is sufficient for most anglers.
The retrieve rate, which sits at around 75cm per handle turn for the Inertia 320, ensures efficient line retrieval, though not quite as fast as some premium options.
The drag system on the Preston Inertia Match Reel is a micro-adjustable front drag, allowing anglers to fine-tune the pressure during fights. This level of control is above average for reels in its price range although not as advanced as some premium reels that offer quick-drag systems for instantaneous adjustments.
Additionally, the infinite anti-reverse feature ensures that the handle won’t rotate backwards, offering an efficient strike and good control in the fight.
On the water, the reel performs well, with casting being smooth and accurate in testing and the retrieve feeling smooth and fluid.
Its aluminium machined spool, coupled with the metal line clip, is strong and has a quality feel about it.
The manual bail arm, although slightly heavier than hollow designs found in premium reels, operates smoothly and efficiently.
Priced very competitively, the Preston Inertia Match Reel offers excellent value for money. Its combination of solid construction, versatile features, and dependable performance makes it appealing to both casual and more serious anglers.
While it may lack some of the high-end refinements found in premium models, it more than holds its own in terms of practicality and durability.
For anglers looking for a reliable reel that offers good performance without an exorbitant price tag, the Inertia Match Reel is a strong contender.
Here is how the Preston Inertia Match Reel compares against other products in its category.
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa 23 Matchman Reel | 7.9 | £40.99 |
| Matrix HX Pro Match Reel | 8.8 | £179.99 |
| Shimano Aero XR Reel | 8.6 | £99.99 |
| Matrix Aquos Ultra Reel | 8.4 | £49.99 |
| Preston Inertia Match Reel | 8.4 | £52.25 |
| Preston Centris Reel | 8.6 | £134.99 |
| Drennan Vertex Reel | 8.1 | £34.99 |
| James Young Heritage Centrepin Reel | 8.8 | £364.99 |
Etackle’s objective is to provide anglers with key information on fishing tackle products to help them make an informed decision before purchase.
We do this by writing about our own experiences of the product being tested as well as researching information from other experts in the field as well as reviews from other users.
This means you have an unbiased review from a number of sources all in one place. For more information on how products are reviewed on Etackle, please visit our dedicated page on the review process.
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