Zebco is the best company among these kinds of hardware reels. For fishing reels, you can always put trust in them. Today we are comparing two of the fishing spincast reels named Zebco 33 and Zebco 202. Both of them have a good review and greater entries. As they are different in design, we will discuss them thoroughly for you.
If you are planning to start fishing and buying one of them, this is a perfect opportunity to research which one will be better and handy for you.
So let us compare and contrast the Zebco 33 and Zebco 202. Shall we?
Zebco 202 vs 33: Which One Should You Buy?
They are the brothers from the same mother in the case of fishing reels. Although, it has some core differences between them. This is what we are discussing in our article.
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Zebco 33 spincast reel
This spincast reel is one of the most common and famous reels on the market. It has a perfect profile in case of retrieve rate and has a very high gear ratio. It may also be used for a variety of other fishing purposes. Fortunately, its gear is completely made out of metal. That is why it can contribute to its seamless operation as well as its long-term longevity, even in the saltwater atmosphere.
Another thing about it is- it is very cost-effective. With 30 dollars, you can buy them from any hardware shop.
Some features make the reel unique. They are-
- Bite alert mechanism: as it is a fishing reel. Before any fish gets caught in it, it alerts the user.
- Lightweight graphite frame: the frame is made out of graphite. That is why it is very easy to handle and maneuver.
- Stainless steel spool cover: the spool cover is made out of stainless steel. Now you can use it in water as many times as you want; there is no fear of rust.
- Ceramic pick-up pins: its ceramic pick-up pins give it an ultra-modern and traditional look to the reel.
Zebco 202 spincast reel
For beginners who just got into the fishing hobby or business, this is an excellent choice. Because of its simplicity to handle and to learn its working process, is very easy. Many anglers have begun their fishing careers with this rod. It is not quick enough for casting and retrieving lures, but it will do for most other fishing tasks.
It also has some unique features that make a difference, especially for beginners. Such as-
- Stainless steel pick-up pin: Anything made out of stainless steel means the longevity of the product is very high. For beginners, it helps a lot.
- No-tangle design: The newcomers cannot handle the tangled thread in terms of fishing. For them, it is designed with tangle-free thread.
- Dial-adjustable drag: After any fish gets hooked to your fishing rod, it is a matter of anxiety on how to pull the rod to catch the fish. With this feature- dial, adjustable drag, you can easily pull and drag the fish to your basket.
Zebco 33 vs 202 : A brief comparison
Both of the product is a high quality, yet it has some different features. We have enlisted some of them. Let’s see-
1. Ball bearings
This is the first difference between the two versions, where they vary significantly. There is one ball bearing in the Zebco 33 reel, whereas, Zebco 202 has none. This makes a significant difference in terms of retrieval smoothness and its action.
Long story short, as Zebco 33 has an extra ball bearing comparing to Zebco 202, the retrieval actions using it will be easier and smoother.
2. Gear ratio
Secondly, we should look at another function that has significant variations. The 33 has a slightly higher gear ratio of 4.1:1 than the 202. the 202 reel has approximately 2.8:1.
As a result, the spool rotates quicker during retrieval, resulting in a higher retrieval rate, making it much more suited for any casting applications. So, the bottom line is the gear ratio is higher in the Zebco 33 comparing to 202.
3. Retrieve rate
33 has an estimated rate of 23 inches per turn, whereas 202 has only 15 inches per turn. That makes the 202 a bit slower than the other.
4. Hand retrieve
The 33 has a ball bearing, so its retrieve action is smoother. It can work on both sides. But 202 can retrieve only from the right side.
5. Handle
The 33 has a two-knob double handle. On the other hand, the 202 has a single handle. Casting and retrieving lures are much easier with the double stick. When compared to the 202, the 33's wide double handle makes it ideally suited for casting applications.
6. Weight
33 weighs 9.2 oz. and the 202 weighs only 6.2 oz. So, the 33 reel is heavier and a bit difficult to handle and lift.
7. Drag system
Both of them has adjustable dial and drag system. So, in this case, they are similar.
8. Anti-reverse
There is no difference when it comes to the anti-reverse feature. Both of them have similar anti-reverse gear.
To wrap it up
If you are a beginner, Zebco 33 will be the best choice for your first fishing trip. Both of them have great entries and angler experiences. Yet, the 33 reel has a ball bearing, a better gear ratio, and assurance of smoother retrieval actions. So, the choice is yours, which you are to buy for a great fishing experience.
Happy fishing! Cheers!


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