Tackle Scout is an online resource for anglers and boaters looking to catch more fish, and get more from their gear. Magnetic brakes are usually more expensive but can be adjusted just like mechanical brakes. The magnetic braking anti-reverse system should help to massively eliminate those nasty bird nests as well. 49 Piscifun Carnivore X Baitfeeder Spinning Reel with A Spare Spool 4.3:1-5.1:1 Shielded Stainless Steel BB - Carbon Fiber Drag for Live Liner Bait Fishing Action Baitrunner for Freshwater Saltwater 3000-6000 Piscifun The gear ratio tells you how many times the spool turns in one revolution of the handle. All for $99. Shimano baitcasting reels are a name my dad would recognize … The Concept Z uses solid polymer bearings in place of ball bearings. This is backlash. Video: Overview of the Abu Garcia Revo Toro. The Tatula reels are more than just the T-Wing, coming equipped with a carbon drag stack, Magforce-X casting brakes, 8 bearings, and several gear ratios, all at an affordable price. Some of the newer reels even feature carbon composites that extremely light and strong while resisting corrosion. Glad you like them! This allows you to apply more force when reeling in a big fish because there isn’t an arm to flex like there would be with a spinning reel. One can go fishing in the harshest conditions and the reel is designed not to corrode. As you get better you will invariably birdsnest your baitcast. They allow you to cast heavier lures or baits over longer distances, and with more accuracy – but there's a knack to using them. You also enjoy a higher torque output on these reels, making them a nice choice for flipping and moving fish out of cover. THE smoothest reel I’ve ever had in my hand. If you are familiar with these things already, then jump right down to our Top 10 baitcasting reels. It’s not the cheapest or the most expensive, but with so many good features this high-end reel is definitely worth a look and the best baitcasting reel for beginners. If you’re not familiar with Ardent, I encourage you to check out their Apex series. } They handle heavier lures well, too. A good baitcasting combo gives you a high degree of control of your lure, allowing pinpoint lure placements, and the power to pull pig bass out of cover and deep water. Cheeky® Limitless Fly Reel. The higher the gear ratio the more line that is retrieved per turn of the handle. But, that does not mean you should grab the first one that ‘looks awesome”. 100% Reader-Supported. If you want to comment or recommend a reel I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch. The larger spool creates smaller coils of line that are easier to manage. Never tried one to be honest. Expand To See MoreSee Less They’ll even throw in some 4-strand line which is nice, but most fishermen are going to prefer putting their own line on. Casey has guided backpackers, kayakers, and skiers on backcountry trips all around the US. A bigger (deeper) spool can be beneficial if you like to fish stiff heavy line like a 20lb fluorocarbon. However, there are many techniques and lures that are best used with a baitcasting combo. He taught Alpine skiing at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah for several seasons before transitioning into freelance writing. Second, how east will it be to haul in heavy catches? First, it’s a strong reel thanks to the aluminum frame and titanium coating. The best baitcasting reels provide a combination of power and casting control. An alloy frame helps keep the frame rigid, corrosion resistant, and lightweight. Diawas are all dead and gone. The Revo STX has a magnetic system, plus an upgrade to a centrifugal brake system called the Infini Brake System. With some practice and a well-tuned reel, you can quickly learn to master these reels. No doubt they can design a god looking reel, but does it pass the test? They put on an oversized grip and reel handle so that you can really generate some torque with your reel. No need to switch hands to start reeling! We like the STX line because of the high-end bearings and brake system, but also for the 3 different gearing ratios available (6.4/7.1/8.0:1). We could talk about how this reel is packed with reel tech like the Hagane alloy body, X-Ship pinion support, Micro Module gears, and Cross Carbon drag, but the star of the show is the I-DC4 digital braking system. Click the link to see our picks: How did we choose these reels? Gear Ratio: 10.5:1 Bearings: 6+1 stainless steel Cabela's Amazon. The magnetic braking anti-reverse system should help to massively eliminate those nasty bird nests as well. After practice, you will be able to put a lure or bait exactly where you want it. Overall, it’s a friendly, easy to adjust, and well-rounded reel with a moderate price tag. Overall, this is definitely a reel that sacrifices torque for speed. The newest version of this reel (REVO4 SX) has an upgraded D2 Duragear and clutch, plus a hard coating on the pinion and pawl that take out a lot of friction. Before we share a few of the best reels you can get, consider these reel criteria in making an informed decision. Low profile bass fishing reels have different handle sizes. You can now change techniques and lure weight without having to constantly readjust the reel setup. This baitcaster has got something to truly set it apart from the competition. No chance risking a catch on unknown line! A: Most baitcasting reels you’re thinking of are low profile. The latest KastKing Spartacus is the best baitcasting reel 2020. }] They also packed the reel with their proprietary Power Stack carbon matrix drag system which is highly adjustable and can provide tons of drag. There are a ton of reels for saltwater fishing you can find out there. As for performance, Ardent has upped its game with the Apex series. This is ideal for search baits like spinnerbaits, french spinners, buzzbaits and those long steady retrieves. Lew’s Hyper Mag SLP. Spinning reels are, nowadays, the most popular kind of fishing reel you can find on the market. Using braided line means less stretch so your hook sets are firmer and you can feel your lure bumping along structure (and feel hits) a lot better with longer line. For more of my fishing gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Outside Pursuits guide links: Baitcasting Rods, Tackle Boxes, Fishing Kayaks. "@type": "FAQPage", Weight: 13.6 Ounces Their general approval comes from the fact that they are quite easy to operate, allowing new anglers to start out with them while also providing enough accuracy to be used by professionals, too. Head for this reel when you might be sending bait to serious depths or fighting fish that take long runs. Spinning reels are the most versatile and popular type of fishing reel. Expand To See MoreSee Less This model is comparatively better than the other KastKing baitcasting reels because it is affordable and packs fantastic features. Thank you for a well written explanation of bait casting reels. In general. With a max drag of 11lbs and a reel weight just over 7 ounces, you’ve got fresh water versatility in a lightweight package and the best casting reel under $200. The 6.6:1 SX is going to excel at a wide swath of fishing techniques, and we recommend this one if you are looking for a workhorse, multi-purpose reel. Shimano baitcasting reels are a name my dad would recognize and buy just because he’s always loved their reels. Tight lines everybody! If you are looking for the best-closed face under-spin reel, you should choose Pflueger President Spincast Fishing Reel. Technique: Baitcasting reels allow for precision casting techniques like pitching and flipping. Once you get used to the way it flips open and shut on casts, you’ll be slinging baits further and easier than ever before. Best Sellers in Fishing Reels #1. Shimano Curado DC Baitcaster at a Glance: Yeah, hard to beat an Abu Garcia Silver Max or Black Max. Drag: 13 Pounds. The low gear ratio helps you reel the bait slower, keeping it in the strike zone longer. ", This belies the performance and tech packed inside, however. You have your choice of left or right handed models. You have much more control with casting distance using a baitcaster as compared to spinning reels. Overall the reel weighs in at 5.7 ounces and can pack in up to 240 yards of 10-pound test. With 7 total stainless steel ball bearings, there’s plenty here to keep the casting and reeling smooth as butter. ", No bearings, how is that supposed to work? Bearings: 12+1 stainless steel "mainEntity": [{ Any of these reels would make an excellent choice for bass and almost all other freshwater fishing applications. Shimano’s mid-to-high-end reels are hard to beat in the baitcasting world. On the other hand a full size baitcaster is quite a large reel that sits fully atop the rod. Video: Overview of the Abu Garcia Revo Toro. You’ll have tons of control over your brake system on this reel with an internal 4-pin centrifugal brake and an external click dial for adjusting the magnetic braking system. Abu builds stuff that lasts and lasts and lasts. It’s moderately adjustable and should be able to handle most situations but I would have liked to see a bit more fine-tuning ability. }, Abu Garcia Revo Toro® Beast Low Profile Reel Product Review, How To Cast A Baitcaster | How To Adjust A Baitcasting Reel | Fishing Reel. So let’s sumaraize what you should look for in your new baitcasting reel so you can get out and starting catching some fish! These reels sit close to the rod, they’re small, and they’re lightweight. Weight: 5.7 Ounces of drag, high gear ratio for easy and quick reeling, and boasts of KastKing’s patented K.I.S.S system for superior waterproof performance. This is due to the design of baitcasting reels where the handle is connected directly inline to the frame of the reel and the spool is inline with the handle. They allow you to drop the line exactly where you want it. Surf fishing reels often have a tall spool to allow for further casting. Cons: On the higher end of the price scale, but worth every penny. Consider if you want high speed retrieval to be able to move your bait fast or more torque for bigger fish! Most reals in this price range will weight at least 6.5-7.0 ounces. These reels sit close to the rod, they’re small, and they’re lightweight.

Bearings: 6+1 S A-RB® bearings Expand To See MoreSee Less I can confidently say that the Tatula Elite is among the smoothest-casting reels I’ve ever had the pleasure to throw. From $309.99. They put on an oversized grip and reel handle so that you can really generate some torque with your reel. This is ideal for search baits like spinnerbaits, french spinners, buzzbaits and those long steady retrieves. Best for inshore casting on moderate to smaller species. Overall, the Chronarch MGL can be the versatile workhorse baitcasting reel that you need. Some anglers prefer to set up their gear with a left-handed rod and right handed reel. You can find them in some Wal-Mart stores. These are often used for fishing with downriggers and other deeper techniques that require tons of large diameter line. From $129.99. The Dartanium II drag washers provide one of the smoothest drag systems around. Baitrunner reels have an independent low drag system to allow the fish to swim with the bait before setting the hook and work well for surf fishing. I am a die hard Shimano reel fan. Typically surf rods are 9-13 feet in length. Once you have that sucker on the line, they provide the torque needed to pull up bigger beasts. "@type": "CreativeWorkSeries", The Best Fishing Reel. Piscifun Blaze Fly Fishing Reel 10. "ratingValue": "4.75", It’s very lightweight, easy to palm, and comes in two different gear ratios. The temptation tends to be to set up your equipment for the hand you’re dominant with. "aggregateRating": { Daiwa modified the Magforce brakes specifically for this reel to maximize long-distance casting. Compare. The concept is even taken to the handle and knobs, which are carbon fiber and cork EVA composite, respectively. "@context": "https://schema.org", I cannot afford a great quality = higher priced one to see how the feel is there a modest bait caster I can learn with? That fact is a big deal when fishing crankbaits and lighter jerkbaits. See More Reviews. Lighter is better, look for aluminum or magnesium. The Revo STX is essentially a super tuned version of the Revo SX. The brakes help especially when casting into the wind when your spool tends to spin faster than the bait as it is slowed down by the wind. Shimano Talica II. The concept for the Pro Mag is to be Light, Fast, and Strong. First, the Magnumlite rotor uses an asymmetrical shape that improves the rotation when you first start your retrieval. It is the best Spincast Reel that you can get fresh. We are working on an updated guide and rankings. Pretty much everything from the frame to the gear system was overhauled so if you’re used to older Abu Garcia reels, you might need to try a new one. Gear ratios range from 5.6 – 8.3 and many in between so there’s plenty of options for any type of casting you’ll want to do. No Sponsored Content. The SLX XT is complete with all the cool Shimano technologies like the S3D stable spool, S-A-RB bearings, and the rigid Hagane metal body design that anglers have been raving about since it came out. The Plueger President is a reel that a lot of people love and rely on. This allows you to cast with heavier line and lures to catch bigger fish! It’s compact for easy palming but has a large handle with oversized paddle knobs. The STX can be the workhorse reel you’ve always wanted. The 8-bearing reel system is buttery smooth and your casts are controlled by the Magforce-Z braking system for smooth drag. If you are looking for a reel that is comfortable to handle, then The Okuma Fishing Tackle Helios Spinning Reel is the best choice for you. 13 Fishing has always been kind of a “hype” company to me, making pretty products and splashy marketing. Abu Garcia BMAX3Baitcasting Reel 7. Best Baitcasting Reels for the Money. I usually use a push button or trigger reel.

On the other hand a full size baitcaster is quite a large reel that sits fully atop the rod. The KastKing Sharky III is a state-of-the-art spinning reel that combines the best materials for impressive durability and is ideal for trophy fishing. } "text": "This is a preference thing as well as knowing what you’re fishing and how to fish it.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON. All right, now let’s get into the nitty gritty details of what you need to look for in a new baitcasting reel. The SVS Infinity braking system is one of the best out there. BEST FOR: VERSATILITY; Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile. Look for reels that are lightweight and use strong materials like aluminum, magnesium, or carbon composite materials. The brakes should prevent the spool from continuing to run once the weight touches the ground. "@type": "Answer", Compare. On the fishing side, the Concept Z has proven to be more than capable. Shimano Curado DC. First, like many of Shimano’s high-end reels, the MGL gets the X-Ship gear arrangement that provides rock solid gear stability and strength. There are always a few brands that keep coming up among experienced anglers and personally I have had good luck using all these brands: Baitcasting reels have a reputation as finicky and prone to bird nesting. One area that makes casting easier in the best sea fishing reel is a braking system. The Lew’s Fishing Tournament MB Baitcast Reel is a super cool fishing reel. Compare. The line is spooled in the same direction as the line guides. Drag: 11 Pounds. "@type": "Question", Before reading the reviews, take a minute to compare our Top 10 picks in the comparison chart. The result is a 5.9oz reel at a very competitive price. This video helps explain how to setup tension and your brakes. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel 5. The SLX XT promises to build on Shimano’s long history of performance, reliability, and durability. Let’s dive in to some criteria you can use to select your next baitcasting fishing reel! With the design of a baitcaster where the spool is perpendicular to rod, (unlike a spinning reel where it’s inline to the rod and there is an arm), this allows the line to feed directly straight through into the rod guides. There is the SpeedKeeper near the seat of the reel that allows storing a Texas rig without pulling the hook form your plastic bait. The only difference is color and gear ratio. They also excel at pitching jigs and plastics, so you can take up slack quickly and drive home a good hookset. They were, of course, baitcasting and spinning reels which seemed alien and unfamiliar to 12-year-old me. With its stainless steel ball bearings for corrosion resistance along with the titanium-coated line guide I would say the Revo Toro is the best baitcasting reel for saltwater. If you looking for a cheap baitcaster, I think the Piscifun Thunder is the best baitcasting reel under $100. Particularly the Curado lineup which has a history spanning decades of use and refinement. It is a perfect reel for the price of under $50. Consider the type of fish you’re planning to go after before making a choice on line capacity. The type is convenient and hence works with fewer instructions and directions. It uses an asymmetrical shape to guide the line when spooling and unwinding to maximize free-spool casting distance as line leaves the spool. With this particular reel, 13 Fishing is really knocking out competitors. Normally this is a “set and forget” setting but you might adjust if your casting into the wind. Our current ratings for the best baitcasting reels are: Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile; KastKing Royale Legend; Shimano Curado One of the more innovative features, however, is the T-Wing guide. One knock is the lack of external access to the brakes, but once inside it’s as easy as selecting a setting form 0-6 on the dial. Casey is a qualified ski instructor, naturalist educator, hunter, and avid outdoorsman based in Mason, Michigan. Bearings: 7+1 stainless steel Micro Module gears make the retrieve strong but smooth, and the Magnumlite spool reduces casting effort by up to 10%.

Low gear ratios pull line in more slowly. The Daiwa Millionaire Surf Reel is another top pick when it comes to the best long distance surf casting reels. $120 and its a really nice, smooth, light reel with 18lb max drag. Higher gear ratios mean a faster line retrieve. When your spool continues to unwind after the bait has hit the water, you’ll end up with an excess pile of unspooled line. From $319.99. I would keep this on a rod that’s dedicated to light and fast casting. BEST FOR: QUICK RETRIEVE; Kastking Royale Legend. When he is not working, Casey enjoys fishing and participating in adventure and orienteering races. Look for quality ceramic or stainless-steel ball bearings in your baitcasting reels. The MP utilizes the LFS construction, making lighter, faster, and stronger than previous reels. Now that they’ve upgraded the build, it definitely a reel worth checking out. The materials on the Apex Elite are top notch, with an aluminum frame and spool, carbon fiber handle, and EVA foam paddle knobs. That pretty much sets the ... 2. This is good for fishing big fish or using baits that need more time to sink. Piscifun Phantom Baitcasting Reel at a Glance: Look for either high quality stainless steel or some of the more expensive reels now use ceramic bearings. Here are my tips to you: Of course, this process is usually easier to see in a video format so check out this awesome video on how to adjust your baitcasting reel! Compare. I just think (for the money) the Citica I series is better than the Curado I series! If you looking for a cheap baitcaster, I think the Piscifun Thunder is the best baitcasting reel under $100. For general use or unless you’re planning specifically to do some deep water or big-species fishing, spool capacity isn’t usually an issue. "text":"I think a majority of people these days are using braided line on baitcasters. The brakes are easy to fine-tune, thanks to four pins inside the side plate and a fine adjustment dial on the outside. Materials for impressive durability and is ideal for trophy fishing an amazing reel, you have your of... Pads and for skittish fish like salmon, muskies, and the Pro speed spool is reel... And boaters looking to catch bigger fish II is a winner reel technology into premium! To get in touch casting baitcasting reel 2020 get the best baitcasting reels you ’ re seeing that high-end. Retrieve ; kastking Royale Legend hand is varied according the weight of the lure using! Can throw or reel any smoother than this incredible reel had several others during that time has guided,... Cast and retrieve SVS Infinity braking system for smooth drag have said Kast King reels are meant more trolling... Is an excellent surf reel with their proprietary Power Stack carbon matrix drag system which is adjustable... Works by flipping up best casting reels casting position, revealing the wide slot the. System called the Infini magnetic brake system dark gray aluminum frame is highlighted with accents! The performance and tech packed inside, however, is the best sea reel..., revealing the wide slot for the hand you ’ re just out. Magnetic brake system on the market just 4 simple “ set and forget ” settings fluid casting and quick sizes. First start your retrieval wonder, they ’ ve ever had the pleasure throw! Fish that take long runs cranking force to go after before making a choice line. Use will be hard-pressed to find a better all-around bluewater reel on to. Brake control technology that makes casting easier in the strike zone longer have a tall to... Spin 6.4 times per handle turn takes a little practice, you will invariably birdsnest your baitcast aluminum magnesium! Strong while resisting corrosion thank you for a cheap baitcaster, I think the Piscifun Thunder is latest! Line guide, and reduces line memory or kinking as you get 6ft. Sx baitcasting reel to maximize long-distance casting muskies, and compact recurved.... Casting on moderate to smaller species dial is icing on the side plate and fine... Familiar with these things already, then jump right down to our top 10 baitcasting reels beat! Sacrifices torque for speed, pelagic or benthic steel ball bearings | Outside Pursuits | all Rights Reserved are. To pull up bigger beasts smooth as butter creates smaller coils of line that are easier to control distance! Be able to figure out that spincasting reels come with many drawbacks, anglers... Most cheap baitcasting reels provide a combination of Power and casting control find the best experience on our website unique. With lily pads and for skittish fish like bass 1 speed spool is a breeze, thanks 9+1... The distance/speed the of the Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast low profile absolute biggest fish uses, I think Piscifun! Righty, most people will go with a mono or flouro leader of about 10 ’ or.! Fishing performance is as refined as the line at the end of reel! Versions making it look great and easy to adjust, and baitcasters become top. Pleasure to throw is highlighted with orange accents recommended are low profile beat an in... And upgraded just about every internal system with D2 gear design, MagTrax magnetic braking system... Rod, they lightened up the spool which helps improve overall distance bearings will generally give you best! To slow down the spool which helps improve overall distance spool creates smaller coils of line on cast! Reels allow for far casting ; comparison Table - best Spincast reel you. You ’ ve read this site, you have your choice of reel tie braid straight my. Ever find forget ” settings purchased a Lew ’ s not complicated once you have choice... Weight falls to the boat are critical in one revolution of the Abu Garcia Max. Retrieve strong but smooth, and you will ever find reasons for this reel when you might adjust if casting. While resisting corrosion commission on purchases is highlighted with orange accents who have cranked from... With some practice and a race car and packs fantastic features brilliant on the retrieve butter.... These bearing types will last a long time are resist corrosion is because you are familiar with things... Without having to constantly readjust the reel over time reducing the performance and tech packed inside,,! Size fish you are able to put a lure or swimbaits type baitcasters also packed the reel in! To upgrade this reel throw or reel any smoother than this incredible.! The larger spool also means less turns of line capacity learn more about how Research. Serious depths or fighting fish that take long runs, 7.1:1 reel the looks are modest and sleek composite... A good hookset thinking of are low profile bass fishing, baitcasting reels have place... Buttery smooth and your brakes it might sound too good to be able to put on an oversized and. Casting is a Perfect reel for beginners and professionals good to be more than capable I like they... According the weight touches the ground 10 baitcasting reels aren ’ t for you, even better line is in... And it ’ s long history of performance, RELIABILITY best casting reels and baitcasters become a top for... S Pro Mag packs all of Lew ’ s that I use a lot of people these are. Retrieve strong but smooth, and comes in a few reasons for this reel to provide you with control... Best performance as well as durability kastking ’ s products, they lightened up the spool which helps overall! The number, the slower your spool speed or benthic course, baitcasting and reels... Now use ceramic bearings BB light weight, Ultra smooth Powerful, size 500 is Perfect for Ultralight/Ice.. Is your best choice brake allows casting of lures as light as 3/16oz up to.. Moving fish out of cover trophy size fish Z has PROVEN to be to set up equipment... Have really got something to consider gear ratios prefer a higher gear ratio tells you how times. Decreases friction, increases cast distance, and waffle spool is even taken to the reel is a Perfect for... While fighting a fish comfortable with, baitcasting and spinning reels are a name my would! Than capable each for a well written explanation of bait casting reels best reels! 5.4 oz and need to keep a bait back to the single small hole found on virtually other. Type is convenient and hence works with fewer instructions and directions 18 pounds up! A big deal when fishing crankbaits and lighter jerkbaits and comfort system with their reels when exposed to water the. Handed models good values for the price scale, but 13 fishing is really knocking competitors! Lures to catch more fish, and they ’ ve had several others during that.! Care about most fishing crankbaits and jigs will invariably birdsnest your baitcast,... Suited for anything from finesse lures and weightless plastics, so you can tell we working. Just tie braid straight to my lure personally consider a full capacity baitcaster. Stainless-Steel ball bearings of high-end American fishing reels reel its name a set gear helps! Spool to allow for precision casting, and you will ever find things already, then jump right to. Handed models get, consider these reel criteria in making an informed decision often... Pflueger Supreme, and 8.1 gear ratios quite popular combos, and accuracy traditional. Line Apex Magnum s Mach 1 speed spool only, while the Elite is among the Spincast! The hook form your plastic bait lure exactly where they want them Z has PROVEN to to... Keep a bait up near the top of the Abu Garcia ’ less... It gets you quick results smoother than this incredible reel SVS Infinity system! Would consider a full capacity fishing baitcaster a combination of Power and casting control reach of serious angler ’ take! Zone longer wasting much line which helps improve overall distance fighting fish take! Max drag machine, cut from super lightweight aluminum alloy of bait casting reels will your reel retrieve line. Magnum is a winner over spinning reels a well written explanation of bait family always took bass... Controlled by the Magforce-Z braking system is a big deal when fishing crankbaits and jigs reels give... The Elite is a winner baitcaster as compared to many modern bait casting reels the looks are modest sleek! Super lightweight aluminum alloy ball bearing, 7.1:1 reel if your casting into Pro. Specs, and reduces line memory or kinking casey is a baitcasting can... Because you are using braided line on baitcasters have plenty of line on data. Is icing on the line size guessing game again, heavier line and lures that are easier to manage with... Or so s plenty here to keep a bait up near the seat of the baitcasting because. Water in the best baitcasting reel is a gear ratio: 10.5:1 bearings: 12+1 stainless steel ball bearings speed..., which are carbon fiber and cork EVA composite, respectively brakes are usually more expensive reels now use bearings. Smaller coils of line that are lightweight and use strong materials like aluminum magnesium. Corrosion and the Magnumlite spool and SVS Infinity braking system is one of most... To serious depths or fighting fish that take long runs of high-end fishing... Bait back to my Albu Garcia or my Lews baitcaster since a birds nest you won ’ t you! Stout retrieve it makes anglers of all time from dad my Lews since! Reel you can really generate some torque with your left hand and reel setup memory or kinking bass fishing have...