Practical difference between machined reels and cast reels

[Scruffy Fly]

You will find that the cast reals are generally painted. The machine bodies can be painted or anodized. If they are hard anodized they will be more resistant to corrosion especially on the sharp corners. Hard anodize can eat the corners so that they are rounded but that these days is probably limited very well.

Cast parts are not generally anodized because the acid etching process will tend to expose and grow small pits and voids making smooth surfaces appear rough.

I have read that salt water can cause spotting and fading on painted surfaces.

My opinion is that any reel I use is going to be banged up soon anyways so prettyness is going to be substantially reduced no matter what.