If you're a US slots fan who loves a classic with serious payout potential, you've probably heard of Reel 'Em In. This fishing-themed slot from WMS Gaming isn't just a relic; it's a pioneer that introduced the 'second screen' bonus round to casino floors and later, online play. For American players, finding this game means tapping into a piece of slot history that still hooks big wins today.
What is Reel 'Em In? The Slot That Changed the Game
Launched in the late 1990s, Reel 'Em In was one of the first slots to feature an interactive bonus round on a separate screen. It's a 5-reel, 20-payline video slot with a lighthearted fishing tournament theme. The charm isn't just in the cartoon graphics; it's in the gameplay. The slot is famous for its 'Big Bass Bonanza' pick-'em bonus, where you choose fishing holes to reveal cash prizes or advance to higher-value ponds. While the original land-based version is iconic, you can now find it at several top US online casinos in digital form.
Where to Play Reel 'Em In at USA Online Casinos
Not every online casino carries WMS slots, but several major brands do. At BetMGM Casino, you might find Reel 'Em In alongside other WMS classics, especially if you're playing in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan. They often welcome new players with a 100% deposit match up to $1,000, requiring a 35x wager on slots. DraftKings Casino and FanDuel Casino also have extensive libraries that include these legacy titles, frequently offering no-deposit bonus spins or deposit matches to try them out.
Understanding Wagering Requirements on Slot Bonuses
When you claim a bonus like BetMGM's $1,000 match, that 35x wagering requirement means you must bet the bonus amount 35 times before cashing out winnings. Since Reel 'Em In typically has a mid-to-high variance, it's a solid choice for working through that playthrough. Always check the game weighting; slots usually contribute 100%.
Reel 'Em In's Payouts and Bonus Features
The base game pays for landing combinations of lures, rods, and fishermen. But the real action is the bonus. Land three or more bonus symbols (the fishing tournament sign) on an active payline, and you'll trigger the second-screen feature. You'll pick from a selection of fishing holes to win instant credits or move to a new screen with higher-value prizes. The top prize in the original version can reach up to 50 coins times your line bet, but with multipliers in later bonus stages, potential wins are much larger. There's no progressive jackpot, but the bonus round can feel like one.
The Strategy Behind the 'Pick Me' Bonus Round
The bonus is purely luck-based, but knowing the structure helps. You start at the 'Small Bass' pond, then can progress to 'Big Bass' and 'Whopper' ponds. Each stage offers higher credit values. There's no skill involved in picking the right hole, but the anticipation is a huge part of the game's lasting appeal.
Depositing to Play: Payment Methods for US Players
Funding your account to spin Reel 'Em In is straightforward. Most US casinos accept Visa and Mastercard directly. For faster transactions, e-wallets like PayPal are widely available at Caesars Palace Online Casino and Borgata Online Casino. Some players prefer using crypto; BetRivers Casino and Hard Rock Bet Casino often support Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals. Bank transfers and ACH are also common for larger cashouts.
FAQ
Is Reel 'Em In available at online casinos in the US?
Yes, but availability depends on your state. You'll find it in the slots library of major regulated casinos like BetMGM and DraftKings in states where WMS games are licensed, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Michigan.
What is the RTP (Return to Player) of Reel 'Em In?
The exact RTP can vary by casino platform, but the original Reel 'Em In slot typically has an RTP around 94-95%. Always check the game info screen at your online casino for the specific percentage, as it might be adjusted for the digital version.
How do I trigger the bonus round in Reel 'Em In?
You need to land three or more of the fishing tournament bonus symbols on an active payline from left to right. This launches the interactive 'Big Bass Bonanza' pick-'em game on a second screen, where the biggest prizes are won.
Can I play Reel 'Em In for free before betting real money?
Absolutely. Many US casino sites offer a 'demo' or 'play for fun' mode. This lets you try the slot without depositing. It's a great way to get a feel for the bonus round frequency and gameplay before you wager real cash.
What's the maximum jackpot I can win on Reel 'Em In?
Reel 'Em In doesn't have a standalone progressive jackpot. Your biggest win comes from the bonus round. In the original game, theoretically, you could win up to 11,000 coins if you max out the 'Whopper' pond picks. With max bet, that can translate to a payout of over $10,000 in a single bonus sequence.