Anglers deserve to have the right tools at their disposal. Otherwise, they won’t have fun in the waters. If you are into big games, one of the amenities that you should get is the best baitcasting reel. This particular equipment can tackle burly and large fish, in which spinning reels cannot do.
Moreover, baitcasting reels are capable of handling heavy fishing techniques and lures. You can expect that this reel gives you the optimum amount of versatility while you are on a roll. Of course, this tool also provides control and proper placement of the lure. As a result, catching big trophies won’t become a problem.
While it is true that there are a lot of options for a baitcasting reel, only a few out there can cut. Of course, fishing aficionados will never settle for less. That is one unwritten rule. The better the reel, the more you can enjoy fishing.
In this article, we decided to gather all the top rated baitcasting reels on the market today. If you are still new to this fishing too, you must read this guide we prepared for you. Don’t worry. We made it easy and comprehensive even for amateur anglers. Even seasoned fishers would love to take a look at this. So, read to get started!
6. Abu Garcia BMAX3 – A Baitcasting Reel for the Burly Fish7. Shimano Curado 201 IHG – Baitcasting Reel with Innovative Gear Positioning8. KastKing Royale Legend – Budget Friendly Baitcasting Reel9. Piscifun New Torrent – Another Budget-Friendly Reel10. Sougayilang Baitcasting Fishing Reel – The Low-Noise ReelFinal Words
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10 Best Baitcasting Reels
But before we discuss the respective features of these baitcasting reels, let us make some quick detours first. Specifically, we want to elaborate the necessary things that you need to learn about this type of coil. In this way, you will be able to get the right tool that would suit your preferences and requirements.
Product Name | Weight | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
16 oz |
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12 oz |
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7.4 oz |
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6.7 oz |
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10.4 oz |
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7.3 oz |
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7.4 oz |
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7.5 oz |
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8 oz |
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7.09oz |
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How to Choose a Baitcasting Reel
Those anglers who want to utilize a variety of fishing techniques and lures will need a good baitcasting reel. Well, it is undeniable that they are quite difficult to master. But on the other hand, you can guarantee that these coils provide extreme accuracy in casting.
Here are some of the considerations that you need to take whenever you are looking for a baitcaster:
Gear Ratio
Any models of baitcasting reels should have an indicated gear ratio on them. This particular component refers to the speed of the lure retrieval. Technically speaking, it is the number of spool rotations per one handle turn. Of course, you could say that baitcasters with higher gear ratio can retrieve faster compared to their lower counterparts.
On application, you can consider a 4:1 ratio as “slow.” Meanwhile, the 6:1 or higher ratio is already fast. Therefore, it is right for you to consider the type of lure that you should use before deciding for the gear ratio. For example, spinner baits and crank baits require a slow retrieval (we recommend a 3:1 gear ratio for this). On the other hand, soft plastics and jigs need a moderate recovery (somewhere around 5:1).
Buzz baits and other types of fishing lures will require will need baitcasting reels with high gear ratio. Specifically, it should be around 6:1 to 7:1.
Size of the Spool
It is also important that you check the spindle size of the reel. If you want to hunt large and active fish, then it is pretty obvious that you need a cumbersome and thick line. The latter will inevitably consume the space of your spool. If this is your common predicament, try to get a reel with an extensive and spacious area. In this way, you can accommodate any line, regardless of how thick or long they are.
Meanwhile, for those who are into bass fishing, using a light and thin line is acceptable. But at the same time, the line should have enough strength to handle the fish and water pressure, without losing versatility. Reels that have small spool can give you the advantage on these kinds of applications.
Handle Size
Baitcasting reels come in various grip dimensions. For example, you can expect that small coils have short handles. They work best for lures like jigs and worms. On the flipside, they are not applicable for swim baits and crank baits. You should treat the latter by a reel with a long handle. It can provide the right amount of torque to lift the fish from their struggle or thick covers.
Tension and Brake System
Essentially, the tension knob is the one that manages the line once you started casting. They have the same role as the brakes. However, the latter controls the movement of the line at the end of casting. Specifically, the brakes improve the mobility of the line even if you are casting in windy conditions. This particular scenario causes the spool to rotate faster than normal.
Therefore, the combination of tension and brake system will allow you to cast with stability, regardless of the external condition and lure you are using. Moreover, these can prevent the occurrence of backlashes too.
Bearings
In practice, a baitcaster that possesses a plethora of bearings can do faster and smoother casting and retrieval. We recommend that you should look for a bearing that has a stainless steel or ceramic construction. These materials are durable. Furthermore, they can resist detriments like rust and corrosion, which is common in water applications.
Reel Construction
The baitcasting reel that you should choose should be durable and reliable. There is no exception for this. If you decide on a defective unit, you will have a hard time in the water. You might end up going home with a broken reel! As much as possible, look for reels that come with carbon composite, magnesium, or aluminum. They can guarantee that your reel will be reliable and comfortable to use.
Comfort is another thing that you should consider in choosing a reel. If you are not comfortable in the reel, you won’t maximize its full potential. Mainly, you should look for those models that have a balance reel-and-rod combination. The grip is crucial, too. They will allow you to cast accurately, even after multiple tries.
At this point, we recommend that you should try different baitcasting reels first before you make your mind. In this way, you can get the right setup that could increase your success in fishing. We listed a myriad of baitcasters for you. So why not check them out one by one?
1. Daiwa Tatula Baitcasting Fishing Reels – Innovative but User-Friendly
Daiwa Tatula is a name that you will certainly come across whenever you are shopping for a baitcasting reel. It is a professional-grade baitcaster, which offers guaranteed durability and stability on fishing. It is a premium reel that is using a sturdy aluminum housing. Meanwhile, the side plate is using a Carbon Drag UTD, which has a 132-pound dragging capability.
However, the best selling feature of Daiwa Tatula is its T-Wing System. It is an incredibly innovative design that topples all the traditional levelwind systems. With this technology, this reel has enhanced casting distance and performance. Moreover, it improves the overall functionality of the tool. In short, it is a novice-friendly choice.
The TWS system also removes the resistance and friction while you are casting and retrieving. It is due to the integration of titanium to the surface of the spool. Of course, the spool also provides the optimal amount of opening to reduce any resistance in the line operation. However, some people still commented that its retrieve is not as smooth as its casting.
Pros:
- Offers seven ball bearings with anti-corrosion properties
- Comfortable handle provides slip-free grips
- âComes in different gear ratios
- âHeavy duty construction (but still lightweight)
- Smooth and reliable performance
Cons:
- The casting distance is not that as far compared to its other competitors
2. Abu Garcia Revo STX – Extremely Wide Selection of Gear Ratio
The Abu Garcia is not a few face in the fishing game. They have been among the top producers of fishing amenities for several years already. For baitcasting reels, this brand has a lot to offer. One of their prime opuses is the Revo STX. It is a dedicated series for baitcasting reels. It features a reliable control and unparalleled casting accuracy.
The Revo STX is a compact model. It weighs 29% lesser compared to its predecessors. This particular design improves the overall comfort that you can feel while using this tool. It also has knobs made from EVA material, which lessens user fatigue. Specifically, the frame uses a unique X2-Craftic.
The latter is a specialized alloy that provides maximum protection and corrosion. You will also love that its side plates have a C6-Carbon construction.
Meanwhile, the Revo STX is available in multiple gear ratios. Among the baitcasting reels of Abu Garcia, the Revo STX has the broadest gear ratio selection. You can choose from 6.4:1, 7.1:1 and 8.0:1 models. The last one can provide a stunning 33-inch rotation per one handle turn. It is a tournament-caliber quality, but definitely budget friendly.
Pros:
- Ball bearings are rust and corrosion resistant
- âDurable and compact construction
- âGives excellent control when casting and retrieving
- Capable of handling large fish
- Provides smooth drag
Cons:
- This particular reel might be too complicated for amateur users (but practice can cure it)
- Some people just opt for heavier reels
3. Shimano Curado 200I – Overall Best Baitcasting Reel
It is no surprise if the Shimano Curado 200I tops this list. It is one of the most innovative baitcasting reels that we have ever tested. From its construction down to its performance, this one doesn’t miss a spot. The Curado 200I features the patented Shimano Stable Spool Design.
This particular technology lessens the vibration of the reel for improved retrieving and casting.
Moreover, it also comes with another patented innovation called the SVS Infinity. The latter enhances your control over the spool by the utilization of brake weights. Specifically, the weights are used to produce friction while you are casting. Furthermore, it has an ergonomic knob that allows you to modify the lure whenever it is necessary.
Of course, the build of the Shimano Curado 200I is impressive as well. It is ultra durable and sturdy, making it a tough reel on any applications. Its body is using a metal Hagane material, which enables to resist impact.
With this, you can guarantee that this reel won’t flex too much. It can also provide you with the cranking reliability that you need whenever you are casting.
Pros:
- Durable baitcasting reel
- Doesn’t flex too much even if you are catching large fish
- âProvides optimal spool control
- âLessened vibrations while on action
- Bearings have shield to prevent the entry of sand and salt
Cons:
- It is a pricey baitcasting reel, even among its competitors
â4. Abu Garcia REVO Rocket – Fast Low Profile Baitcaster
The Abu Garcia REVO Rocket deserves its name. When it comes to retrieving, we can say that there are only a few baitcasters that can match its performance. Well, it is not a surprising capability, considering that this tool has a 9:1 gear ratio. Therefore, it can do a whopping 37-inch per turn line retrieval. Moreover, it is also capable of handling various lures and fishing techniques.
This particular baitcasting reel has ten stainless steel bearings. It has another one roller bearing the improves the resistance of the bearings against corrosion. Meanwhile, the manufacturer made both the frame and side plates from a specialized alloy. This material provides the maximum tensile strength for the reel. But at the same time, it remains lightweight.
The Abu Garcia REVO Rocket possesses a unique Carbon Matrix dragging system. The latter ensures that you can drag smoothly and consistently, regardless of the condition. It also features the Infinite II Spool Technology that extends its cast range and maximum load capacity.
There are no particular drawbacks that would break the deal on this product. But if you are quite meticulous, you will notice that this reel doesn’t come with an alert line to its switch
Pros:
- Incredibly fast casting and retrieving
- Durable but lightweight construction
- âCan throw at high ranges
- âLow profile design makes it an ergonomic choice
- Can throw accurately, even with heavy loads
Cons:
- It doesn’t have an alert switch
- Some users experienced backlashes with this reel
â5. Abu Garcia Revo SX – The Ambidextrous Choice
The Abu Garcia Revo SX is another low-profile baitcasting reel that you should try. It has different versions that cater right-handed and left-handed anglers. Such feature is quite beneficial, considering that some left-hand fishers are struggling with the conventional right-hand models.
It is also notable that the Abu Garcia Revo SX has a lightweight design. It is due to its X2-Craftic alloy body and side plates made from C6-Carbon. We can say that this tool is pretty lighter than most of the baitcasting reels that we featured here.
The reel features the patented MagTrax brake system, which the Infinite II Spool technology complemented. With this combination, you can guarantee that this fishing reel can do accurate casts even handling heavy loads. It also has the Carbon Matrix dragging system to ensure that you can drag smoothly.
The only gripe that we have on the Abu Garcia Revo SX is the presence of magnet control on the side plates. Specifically, it doesn’t provide any impact on the overall functionality of the device.
Pros:
- Works well for both left-handed and right-handed anglers
- It has a far cast range
- âLightweight and durable construction
- âThe line guide has titanium coating for maximum durability
- Comes with ten ball bearings
Cons:
- You need to practice first with this reel before you are going to use it on fishing
â6. Abu Garcia BMAX3 – A Baitcasting Reel for the Burly Fish
The BMAX3 of Abu Garcia is an excellent choice for both amateur and seasoned anglers. The performance that it has is never flimsy. It can certainly give you the catch that you deserve, regardless of how burly and vigorous it is. Despite this guarantee, this baitcaster has a user-friendly value. It won’t rip your pocket at all!
The Abu Garcia BMAX3 features a stylish design and a set of powerful features for your disposal. It is noticeably lightweight, thanks to its low-profile construction. Its frame came from graphite.
This material is extremely sturdy and durable. However, it will never contribute to the overall weight of your setup. There is a MagTrax brake system integrated on this reel, which improves its casting accuracy. Moreover, such features allow this tool to accommodate various type of lures.
Of course, when it comes to dealing with arrogant fish species, this reel is certainly reliable. It has a Power Disk dragging system that provides enough power to struggle against big games. All of its parts, including the reel foot and bent handle, have ergonomic construction. You can guarantee that it is comfortable to use, even for an extended period.
There are no noticeable drawbacks that are present on this device. The only negative that we can say about this reel is the shipping defects, which is somehow attributed to the manufacturer already. If they could fix this, this reel will have a better place on this list!
Pros:
- Compelling dragging system
- Decent gear ratio (6.4:1)
- âSmooth casting and retrieving
- âSturdy frame but certainly lightweight
- Accuracy in casting is on-point
Cons:
- Numerous instances of shipping defects
7. Shimano Curado 201 IHG – Baitcasting Reel with Innovative Gear Positioning
Another baitcasting reel that you should anticipate from Shimano is the Curado 201 IHG. This one possesses fast retrieval, thanks to its impressive 7.2:1 gear ratio. It also features the X-Ship technology, which enhances its overall durability of the equipment. Specifically, there is an extra bearing support on the pinion gear. Because of this, the machine can precisely align with the driving gear, which allows it to cater heavy loads without losing its position.
On the other hand, it can reduce the friction between the gear and the spool shaft. Because of this, this baitcaster can deal with light lures and cast them at great distances.
Of course, the SVS Infinity brake system is present on this reel. With this feature, you can control the speed of the cast, even if you are using light lures. There is also a knob which enables quick adjustment to the baits.
It is also notable that it has the Shimano S3D feature, too (just like the Shimano Curado 200I). Therefore, you can guarantee that this reel won’t produce spool vibration. Moreover, the frame comes from the aluminum. You can expect that this device is lightweight and durable at the same time.
This baitcasting reel doesn’t have any drawbacks. But if you compare it to Shimano Curado 200I, it is apparent that it has a lesser gear ratio.
Pros:
- Brake system provides optimal control to the casting
- Can cast at long distances
- âLightweight and durable design
- âAccommodate heavy loads without losing gear positioning
- âIt is an affordable choice
Cons:
- Drag is not as smooth as Shimano Curado 200I
8. KastKing Royale Legend – Budget Friendly Baitcasting Reel
The KastKing Royale Legend may not be the most famous kid on the block. But definitely, its performance and reliability are something that you can bet your money. And since it is not as expensive as most baitcasting reels here, investing on this fishing amenity should not be too hard.
This baitcasting reel has a gear ratio of 7:1, which is pretty impressive already. Specifically, the gear system comes from high-quality brass. Meanwhile, its drag system offers an unparalleled 17.5 pounds of pulling force. Therefore, you can guarantee that this tool can tackle tough and aggressive fish.
The KastKing Royale Legend comes with 11 + 1 ball bearings that have anti-corrosion coating. As a result, you can ensure that this reel can cast and retrieve smoothly. Of course, such feature extends the lifespan of this tool, even if you use it frequently. On the other hand, the spool comes from anodized aluminum, which makes it strong, durable, and lightweight at the same time.
However, we noticed that its handle is not long. Some users might find it uncomfortable to use. Also, some parts feel cheap, which is acceptable, considering its price.
Pros:
- Excellent dragging power
- Comes with dual brakes for maximum spool control
- âIt can cast and retrieve smoothly
- âCorrosion resistant
- The most inexpensive choice
Cons:
- It has a short handle
- It is not ergonomic
9. Piscifun New Torrent – Another Budget-Friendly Reel
The Piscifun New Torrent is a good choice for a baitcasting reel. Despite its inexpensiveness, this one boasts power that can match even some of the high-end models. Specifically, this reel comes with high-precision gears that come with three fiber drag washers. Because of such combination, this particular reel possesses 18 pounds of pulling force! You can catch big trophies with this.
The Piscifun New Torrent sports a 7.1:1 gear ratio for smoother and faster retrieving. The gear has a CNC reinforcement to ensure it can drag with durability and reliability.
One useful feature of the New Torrent is that it can perfectly work in both saltwater and freshwater applications. All of its parts have anti-corrosion properties to make sure that it can survive the water detriments.
Meanwhile, its magnetic brake provides a tournament-quality spool control. There are also two winding shafts that improve the stability and accuracy of the winding. Of course, none of these feats are possible if the parts don’t have a premium construction. With an aluminum frame and crank, this tool gives you the fishing leverage that you need!
Well, because it has a cheap price tag, this device requires a series of pre-adjustments before you can use it. Otherwise, you will experience backlashes.
Pros:
- Affordable baitcasting reel
- Robust drag system
- âCorrosion resistant construction
- âSmooth and fast retrieving and casting
- Can throw at great distances
Cons:
- Needs a lot of tuning and adjustments
- Not for professional applications
10. Sougayilang Baitcasting Fishing Reel – The Low-Noise Reel
The Sougayilang is a Japanese-made fishing reel. Don’t mistake it for some cheap imitations because this one can do the job. It features a CNC aluminum spool that possess high tensile strength. Its gear ratio is 7:1, which is pretty versatile enough to tackle various fishing lures and fishing techniques.
We also noticed that the Sougayilang has a silent operation. Unlike some other baitcasting reels, this one can run without disrupting the peace of the water. It could help you catch your preys off-guard. Of course, you can guarantee that you have maximum control over the cast and retrieve, thanks to its Magnetic Brake technology.
Sougayilang also has an impressive oscillation system that keeps the line in place. Moreover, the anti-reverse system that you can have a foolproof casting. The balance and control of this tool are also due to its dual handle. The same design also makes this reel an ergonomic choice. Therefore, it is not too difficult to manage, even for amateurs.
On the other hand, we are slightly disappointed on how easy the paint chips off from the reel. Moreover, rigorous tuning is still necessary for you to operate this baitcasting reel.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Smooth and silent operation
- âImpressive stability when casting and retrieving
- âAccommodates various types of lures
- âDurable frame
Cons:
- It is somehow bulky
- Requires tuning before usage
Final Words
There are a lot of baitcasting reels on the market today. Of course, the insatiable need of anglers to find the best baitcasting reel has resulted to the birth of various manufacturers. But of course, we know that some of these will never allow us to have a good time in the water.
The selections that we made here will serve as your guide (hopefully) in finding the right baitcasting reel for you. In the end, the investment that you will make doesn’t pay up to the satisfaction that you can get from seizing a large trophy.
If we missed any reels that worthy of being mentioned, just let us know in the comment section. Also, just feel free to ask if you have any questions and suggestions.
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