Best Baitcasting Reels Review Guide For 2022-2023

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Best Baitcasting Reels Review Guide For 2022-2023-Baitcasting is an advanced fishing technique that relies on exceptional accuracy and control for the best results. Your fishing reel has a significant amount of influence on both of these requirements, and it can make or break your cast.

We have broken down some of the best baitcasting reels based on reviews by seasoned anglers to find out exactly what makes them efficient in baitcasting and if they have any shortcomings that can be improved.

Along with the pros and cons of each baitcasting reel and buyers guide. We have also summarized the common features that make them effective baitcasting reels.
You will identify quality reels and get real value for your investment by reading our Best Baitcasting Reels Review Guide For 2022-2023.

Best Baitcasting Reels – Winners
Check out our quick recommendations here, or keep scrolling for detailed reviews:

Best Overall Baitcasting Reel: Shimano Curado DC
Best Budget Baitcasting Reel: KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reel
Best Baitcasting Reel for Lefties: Shimano Curado K Baitcasting Reel
Best Round Baitcasting Reel: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX Round Reel
Best Baitcasting Reel for a Heavyweight Catch: Shimano Tranx Baitcast Reel
Best Baitcasting Reel Frame: Pflueger President XT Low Profile Baitcasting Reel
Best Lightweight Baitcasting Reel: Team Lew’s HyperMag Speed Spool Baitcast Reel

Best Overall Baitcasting Reel – Shimano Curado DC

This installment of Shimano’s dependable and versatile Curado DC line features three models: a 6.2:1 gear ratio reel with a retrieval rate of 26 inches per turn, a 7.4:1 with retrieval of 31 inches per turn, and an 8.5:1 with a 36-inch retrieval. In addition, they all have right and left-hand retrieve options to accommodate diverse anglers.

Shimano’s new intelligent DC Braking technology uses a microcomputer to monitor the spool speed 1,000 times per second, capturing the smallest situational changes. Consequently, the optimum amount of braking is applied to maximize the casting distance while preventing backlash. This enhances casting for the novice angler while perfecting it for experienced professionals. It allows casting with various lures in different situations with minimal adjustments to the reel, guaranteeing a great experience for all skill levels.

The new MicroModule Gear system of this Shimano baitcasting reel applies a larger number of smaller gear teeth, creating additional contact points between the drive and pinion gears for greater efficiency and smoother transition.

X-Ship pinion support construction gives the gears extra endurance for heavy loads by maintaining a precise alignment between the drive and pinion gears, eliminating friction between the spool shaft and gear and the consequent wear and tear.

This optimization is also part of their Super Free Spool design in which pinion gears are supported by a ball bearing to keep them in alignment with the spool shaft when the clutch is disengaged. The combination enhances casting distance and accuracy even with small, light lures.

The S A-RB system shields the precision, anti-rust, radial A-RB ball bearings on both sides, reducing the probability of salt or sand inhibiting their rotation. It uses a Cross Carbon Drag with a range of drag settings for extra smooth casting and lure retrieval. Spool vibration during casting is also significantly reduced by the rust-resistant aluminum spool’s S3D design with a uniform thin wall.

The highly rigid metal HAGANE Body’s stiffness and impact resistance ensures all your energy is transformed to cranking power. Its advanced Cl4+ material is a durable, corrosion-resistant carbon-metal alloy customized to reduce weight while increasing stiffness.

Features:

• Reel weight: 7.8 or 7.9 oz.
• Gear ratio: 6.2:1, 7.4:1 or 8.5:1
• Recovery: 26”, 31” or 36” per turn
• Ball bearings: 6+1
• Line capacity: 10/120, 12/110, 14/90
• Braid capacity: 20/150, 30/135, 40/105
• Max drag: 11 lbs.

About this item

• SUPERIORITY – The Curado DC low-profile reel is the most advanced of all Curado models. Augmented with Shimano’s all new Digital Control Braking System that builds on the Curado’s legacy of durability; dependability; and versatility
• CAST SMARTER – Shimano’s new Digital Control braking system utilizes a microcomputer to monitor spool speed 1000 times every second and apply the perfect amount of brake to prevent backlash and maximize distance
• EASE OF USE – Anglers of all skill levels will appreciate less thumbing and trouble-free casting no matter the lure; or the weather conditions. The 4 easy adjustments on the side plate allow the brakes to be adjusted to your preferred setting letting the reel do the work
• INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE – Utilizing the impressively smooth Micromodule Gear System and X-SHIP system; you will experience the seamless reeling and the smoothest cranking unique only to Shimano Reels all while being protected by the overwhelmingly strong and highly rigid HAGANE Body
• SPECIFICATIONS – Max Drag: 11 lbs. / Gear Ratio: 6.2:1 / Weight: 7.8 oz. / Line Retrieve: 26-36″ / Retrieve: Right / Bearings: 6BB + 1RB – PowerPro Line Cap: 20/150; 30/135; 40/105 – Mono Line Cap: 10/120; 12/110; 14/90

Pros:

• Intelligent digitally controlled smart braking system
• Available in left and right hand retrieve versions
• Lightweight Cl4+ carbon alloy construction
• Shielded anti-rust A-RB bearings
• Advanced, efficient gear system

Cons:

• Small drag capacity for its caliber

Best Budget Baitcasting Reel – KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reel

The Royale Legend GT gets its name from its soft synthetic grip handles with a comfortable ‘Grand Touch’ that will have you tackling ferocious game fish without feeling the strain. The grips are mounted on a sturdy 3.8-inch aluminum alloy handle that is sufficient to manage the reel’s low-profile design, which fits snugly in your palm. At only 7.2 ounces, this reel’s drag strength is a remarkable 17.6 lbs. thanks to a quadruple disk carbon drag.

Its magnetic braking, courtesy of 8 cross-fire magnets, is efficient and offers better casting control. Moreover, it is supported by a micro click spool tension knob that can be fine-tuned to get the most optimized resistance. As a result, you can comfortably avoid backlashes and bird-nesting of the line.

The six stainless steel bearings have been double shielded to prevent intrusion by salt and sand, which are inevitably brought into the reel by the wet fishing lines. The entire gear system is made out of precision-cut brass from the worm shaft, main shaft, pinion gear to the main gear.

It is durable and has adequate strength to pull weight at the super-fast speeds the 7.2:1 ratio enables. The spool is made of rust-resistant anodized aluminum, so the reel can be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

An oval-shaped smooth, ceramic line guide protects your lines during retrieval as it spools evenly without friction and has no impact on the line memory.

All these great features of this baitcasting fishing reel are packaged to be aesthetically appealing. A matte red finish on the frame with glossy black side covers places it right up there with premium baitcasting reels, yet it is much more pocket-friendly. It is available in right and left-hand models.

Features:

• Reel weight: 7.2 oz.
• Gear ratio: 7.2:1
• Recovery: 29.8” per turn
• Ball bearings: 5+1
• Line capacity: 10/130, 12/110, 14/90
• Braid capacity: 40/130, 50/110, 65/90
• Max Drag: 17.6 lbs.

About this item

• NEW DESIGN KastKing Royale Legend GT (Grand Touch) baitcaster reels puts you first with outstanding performance, great looks, superb comfort and feel at an affordable price. You will love the carryover low profile casting reel design from the KastKing Royale Legend II fishing reel. One look and you know this is the baitcast reel you!
• ALL ABOUT THE FEEL KastKing developed incredible synthetic soft grip handles for the Royale Legend GT casting reel. Their remarkable feel led to the name, “Grand Touch.” It will give you a great grip in any situation and allows you to fish all day long with a comfortable grip. Grand Touch handle grips are mounted on a strong 95.5 mm 6061 aluminum alloy handle.
• OUTSTANDING FEATURES 8 cross-fire magnets for baitcaster braking efficiency and superior casting control, a low profile palmable of just 1.65 inch height above the reel seat and a total weight of only 7.2 ounces. Combine those fishing tournament features with a quadruple disc carbon drag that delivers a whopper stopping 17.6 lbs of drag for an incredible value in baitcasting reels.
• BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE AND ENDURANCE 5 + 1 Double Shielded Stainless Steel Bearings, Hamai precision cut brass 37 mm main gear, brass pinion gear, brass main shaft, nickel-plated brass worm shaft, stainless steel hardware, a sweet spot 7.2:1 gear ratio with 29.8” IPT for quick line pick up, smooth ceramic line guide. Line Capacity Mono (Lbs/Yds):10/130,12/110,14/9, Braid: (Lbs/Yds): 40/130, 50/110, 65/90
• DAZZLING LOOKS KastKing Royale Legend GT fishing reels have a stunning matte red finish on the frame and trim with sleek gloss black side covers, and a black and red anodized aluminum spool that will turn heads at any fishing hole or bass fishing tournament. Available in right hand and left hand models, this baitcast reel can be used for freshwater or saltwater fishing.

Pros:

• Pocket-friendly pricing
• Ergonomic synthetic soft-grip handle
• Magnetic customizable brake control system
• Oval ceramic line guide

Cons:

• The small spool size reduces the overall retrieval per turn

Best Baitcasting Reel for Lefties – Shimano Curado K Baitcasting Reel

Lefties use their stronger left hand to cast and hold the rod. They need it for better execution of the casting technique and angling strength. This leaves the right hand free for reel adjustment and any other task.

The ideal baitcasting reel for a leftie is, therefore, a right-handling reel. The Curado K series of Shimano reels come with both right and left-handling models. A right-handling unit from these reels will make a great addition to a lefty’s fishing gear collection as they have enough line capacity for different angling techniques and are offered in multiple gear ratios.

The slowest Curado K has a gear ratio of 5.0:1, retrieves 21 inches per turn, and has a maximum dragging capacity of 12 lbs. The fastest one has a gear ratio of 8.5:1, retrieves 36 inches per turn with a maximum dragging capacity of 11 lbs.

In between, this Shimano baitcasting reel has a 6.2:1 and a 7.4:1 with retrieval rates of 26 and 32 inches per turn. You will pick the one that suits you best, depending on your expert level and the kind of fishing you intend to engage in. They are small and palm-friendly for a comfortable angling experience.

They have SVS Infinity, Shimano’s latest braking technology that uses inner friction against the raceway while casting, consistently controlling the spool speed for a more precise cast. This is especially functional when using light lures.

The brake is adjusted using easy access external knobs, which are handy when conditions change, or you switch bait. This plays well with The Cross Carbon Drag system with its multiple drag settings for an extra smooth retrieval.

It has your regular Shimano advantages to top it up, like the X-Ship Gear and Super Free Spool designs which provide extra support for the pinion gears to retain their alignment with the main gear under heavy loads. This makes for a frictionless, smooth, and accurate cast. It also has the MicroModule gear with an enhanced number of smaller teeth ensuring more contact points and a smoother retrieve, and the S3D spool made to reduce vibrations.

It comes with a super-strong HAGANE body constructed out of Cl4+ advanced metal and carbon alloy that is tough, rigid, yet lightweight. The rigidity ensures all the energy you apply towards retrieval is transmitted to the line, and none is absorbed.

Features:

• Reel weight: 7.6 or 7.8 oz.
• Gear ratio: 5.0:1, 6.2:1, 7.4:1 or 8.5:1
• Recovery: 21”, 26”, 31” or 36” per turn
• Ball bearings: 6+1
• Line capacity: 8/180, 10/155, 14/110
• Braid capacity: 30/190, 50/120, 65/80
• Max Drag: 11 or 12 lbs.

About this item

• Built tournament tough; this low-profile baitcasting reel is the benchmark for durability and reliability which is why generations of anglers have looked to curado as their trusted partner
• Featuring shimano’s latest technology such as the super smooth; efficient; and durable micromodule gearing
• Employs svs infinity braking system providing easy-to-manage and consistent spool control and brake force for precision casting with lighter lures as well as precise adjustments when switching baits or a change in condition
• Utilizes x-ship technology to improve durability and long-lasting performance; as well as a smoother; more powerful retrieve making this the ‘go to’ casting reel for both freshwater and saltwater action
• Max drag: 11 lbs. / gear ratio: 8.5:1. / weight: 7.8 oz. / line retrieve: 36″ / bearings: 6bb + 1rb – powerpro line cap: 30/190; 50/120; 65/80 – mono line cap: 8/180; 10/155; 14/110 – retrieve: right

Pros:

• Has both left and right hand handling models
• Variety of gear ratios and speeds to choose from
• Advanced SVS Infinity braking system for smooth casts and retrievals
• Tough and durable construction

Cons:

• Limited hauling power

Best Round Baitcasting Reel – Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX Round Reel

The Ambassadeur SX reels come in two sizes: the lighter 10.6 oz. 5600 and the 11.2 oz. 6600 with a higher line holding capacity. Both models have left and right-hand versions for inclusivity. In addition, their mid-level gear ratio can deploy various fishing techniques requiring varying speeds, making it a versatile reel for landing diverse fish species, from redfish, catfish, stripers to bass.

They utilize star drag adjustment with synthetic drag material and a powerful multi-disc drag that can apply up to 12.5 lbs. of drag pressure. Coupled with a convenient thumb release clutch, you can maintain a smooth, consistent reel while holding the drag pressure across the entire drag range. They have instant anti-reverse to ensure there is no back play of the rotor and maintaining line stability.

This reel features a durable Duragear brass gear system optimized for reduced friction and extended gear life. It has three stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing. A 6-pin centrifugal braking system backs it for extra power.

Their compact bent handle is easy to palm. Combined with the recessed reel foot that mounts lower on the rod, bringing the center of gravity closer to the body, they make casting easier and more efficient.

You can easily control powerful fighting fish. The synchronized level wind system improves line lay and castability, enabling you to cast like a rocket without backlash. The spool made from machine-crafted aluminum is durable and easy on the fishing lines.

Features:

• Reel weight: 10.6, 11.2 or 11.3 oz.
• Gear ratio: 5.3:1
• Recovery: 26” per turn
• Ball bearings: 3+1
• Line capacity: 14/230 or 17/255
• Braid capacity: 30/265 or 30/350
• Max drag: 12.5 lbs.

About this item

• Made using the highest quality components
• Professional grade fishing equipment
• Tested for durability and quality
• Crafted machined aluminum and a compact bent handle, bringing the anglers hands closer to the action
• Has a multi disk drag system that gives anglers a smooth, consistent reel while holding drag pressure across the entire drag range
• The synchronized level wind system improves overall line lay and castability, giving anglers a solid casting reel
• 3 stainless steel bearings plus 1 roller bearing with six pin centrifugal brake system

Pros:

• Has both right and left handled versions
• Smooth multi-disc drag system
• Ergonomic construction for natural posture
• Synchronized level wind system for smooth casts

Cons:

• The stiff clickers need breaking in before they can turn on and off smoothly

Best Baitcasting Reel for a Heavyweight Catch – Shimano Tranx Baitcast Reel

The Shimano Tranx reel series has three major categories: the 200, 300, and 400 series. Because we are looking at heavy game fish and a heavier lure, we will disregard the 200 series for now as their drag caps are at 12 lbs. and focus on the 300 and 400 series with maximum drag ratings of 22 lbs.

The 300s have a mid-level gear ratio of 5.8:1, so this bait caster can retrieve 29 inches per crank, while the 400s have a faster gear ratio of 7.6:1 and retrieve 39 inches per turn. The fast retrieval gives you an advantage when battling huge largemouth bass as it reduces their chances of escape once the hook sets.

The 400AHG models come fitted with a power knob, while the rest have double paddle handles. These handles have been ergonomically designed for easy manipulation in a low-profile approach that reduces the impact of the weight of the reels. It also gives the angler a natural posture, reducing fatigue.

This baitcasting fishing reel’s stiff and impact-resistant HAGANE body doesn’t flex and efficiently delivers all the cranking power you put into it. It is also durable for the long haul. Shimano’s unique CoreProtect process includes applying a hydrophobic spray to key reel areas resistant to saltwater damage. The S A-RB bearings have been shielded on both sides to prevent salt and sand from getting in and impeding their smooth operation.

They have deployed High-Efficiency Gearing (HEG) leveraging an enlarged drive and pinion gears supported by X-Ship technology which increases efficiency and power for smooth operation and a sustainably light handle rotation even when challenged with heavy fish.

The Super Free (SF) bearing-supported pinion gear system eliminates friction in the spool shaft during casting. The supported pinion gear will not drag on the spool shaft when the clutch is pressed down like regular gears.

Features:

• Reel weight: 11.6 oz. or 12 oz.
• Gear ratio: 5.8:1 or 7.6:1
• Recovery: 29” or 39”
• Ball bearings: 5+1
• Line capacity: 14/180 or 14/260
• Braid capacity: 50/190 or 50/275, 65/170
• Max drag: 22 lbs.

About this item:

• HAGANE Body
• Super Free Spool
• Viable Brake System
• CoreProtect
• Cross Cbon Drag

Pros:

• High Cross Carbon dragging power
• Designed to resist saltwater damage
• Sturdy reinforced gear system
• Rigid HAGANE Body made from Cl4+ material

Cons:

• Braking adjustments are internal, which is limiting when you are changing lures on the go

Best Baitcasting Reel Frame – Pflueger President XT Low Profile Baitcasting Reel

This review will not be complete without mentioning this workhorse in a petite body. The low-profile design makes it lighter and more compact without compromising strength. It is also made to last despite the rough conditions you will subject it to.

It comes with an aircraft-grade aluminum handle that is light yet strong and resistant to water damage, and so are its corrosion-resistant C30 steel side plates. A soft-touch knob and rubber cork provide enough traction, so you don’t need to worry about your hand slipping off the reel.

The 7.3:1 gear speed makes it versatile, and you can fish anything from a crankbait to flipping with the reel. It can deliver those fast retrieves when you need them. The bearings are made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, and the nine of them in this system produce an extra smooth casting experience.

Its magnetic braking system with an externally adjustable brake lets you easily control spool rotation and prevent backlash. Consequently, your casts are more accurate.

Features:

• Reel weight: 7.7 oz.
• Gear ratio: 7.3:1
• Recovery: 31” per turn
• Ball bearings: 9
• Line capacity: 12/145, 14/125, 17/100
• Braid capacity: 20/185, 30/140, 50/100
• Max drag: 12 lbs.

About this item:

• 9 Bearing System: Corrosion resistant stainless steel ball bearings
• Magnetic Breaking System: Externally adjustable break controls spool rotation and backlash
• Aluminum Handle: Aircraft grade aluminum, extreme durability
• Soft Touch Knob: Soft touch rubber knob provides excellent grip

Pros:

• Externally adjustable magnetic braking system
• Smooth, effortless retrieval supported by 9 bearings
• Compact, ergonomic construction
• Sturdy and durable construction material

Cons:

• Does not have a left-hand model

Best Lightweight Baitcasting Reel – Team Lew’s HyperMag Speed Spool Baitcast Reel

It comes with a carbon fiber drag system with an external lube port for easy lubrication. In addition, you can use Team Lew’s Speed Lube for added smoothness and performance. The cast is further enhanced by a titanium-coated Zirconia line guide, which reduces friction.

This baitcasting reel has a super low profile build featuring a one-piece magnesium frame and C45 carbon side plates, which are tough and rigid yet light. It has a 9mm bowed carbon fiber handle with Winn Dry-Tac knobs for a firm grip even in wet conditions. There are left-handling and right-handling models. It features a 32mm U-shape spool formed by drilling and chamfering aircraft-grade double anodized duralumin. It is also sturdy and lightweight.

It has a premium 11 bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings and a Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing to support the SpeedCast centrifugal brake system. The brake system is externally adjustable for easy manipulation.

The small spool starts and accelerates faster than larger spools, making it excellent for light lines and lures. However, this has not compromised their power and performance because the rotor is driven by hard-anodized aluminum alloy Speed Gears that have been precision cut on Hamai computer numerical control (CNC) machines.

It features Lew’s patented retractable Speed Keeper hook keeper, which secures your lures and Texas rigged baits without scratching the reel. Their Speed Dial line indicator helps identify the type of line and pound test.

This is a very lightweight reel at only 5.4 ounces, yet it packs enough power to drag up to 20 lbs. As a result, it can be used for various bass fishing techniques.

Features:

• Reel weight: 5.4 oz.
• Gear ratio: 7.5:1 or 8.3:1
• Recovery: 30” per turn
• Ball bearings: 10+1
• Line capacity: 12/110
• Braid capacity: 50/110
• Max drag: 20 lbs.

About this item:

• Fishing reel: Reel constructed from 1-piece magnesium frame with lightweight carbon C45 sideplates, aircraft-grade double anodized Duralumin drilled and chamfered U-shape 32 millimeter spool and aircraft-grade hard anodized aluminum alloy gears
• Casting reel: Features a premium 11-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings and zero Reverse 1-way clutch bearing, as well as an externally adjustable 4-pin, 27 position, SpeedCast adjustable centrifugal braking system (ACB)
• Baitcasting reels: Includes a double anodized aluminum spool tension adjustment with an audible click, a rugged carbon fiber drag system with up to 20 pound of drag power and a bowed lightweight 95 mm carbon fiber handle with Winn Dri-Tac knobs
• Baitcasting reel: Features a double anodized bowed aluminum drag star with audible click adjustment and a titanium-coated Zirconia line guide
• Baitcaster: Includes exclusive patented speed dial line indicator, patented speed keeper hook keeper and an external lube port
• Lew’s fishing gear: Compare our Baitcasting reels, spinning reels and rod and reel combos to fishing gear from Abu Garcia, KastKing, Seaguar, Okuma, Ugly Stik, Penn, Wakeman, Shimano, Piscifun, Berkley, Bass Master, Shakespeare and Zebco

Pros:

• Lightweight, low profile build
• External lube port for easy maintenance
• Fast accelerating U-shape spool
• CNC precision cut gears

Cons:

• Has oversized handle knobs

Best Baitcasting Reels Buying Guide For 2022-2023

How to Choose the Best Baitcasting Reel

Certain features have stood out throughout the review that influences the efficiency and functionality of a baitcaster.

Gear Ratios:

This affects the speed with which you can retrieve. It measures the number of rotations the spool does with one complete turn of the reel handle. A high gear ratio enables you to recover more line per crank and is suited for high-speed angling, where you need to cut line slack instantly. However, some baitcasting methods like trolling don’t always need speed; the lure needs to be presented longer in such cases, which is why you will find some high-end reels with low gear ratios.

Braking:

This is critical for cast control as it influences how fast the line unspools and whether you will control the big fish once they are hooked. Bigger fish need a power disc or a magnetic brake system with multiple magnets to keep tension and ensure you don’t lose the hookset.

Line Capacity:

A Baitcast fishing reel should have sufficient line capacity to accommodate different angling methods. Heavier lines require more reel space than lighter lines because they have a wider diameter. You may not require the extra line, but it is better to have the capacity and not need it than to fall short. A low-profile reel that is preferred because of its light weight may not have the capacity to hold a lot of line. You can get high performance with less line if you optimize the rest of the features.

Right Handed vs Left-Handed Reels:

Most baitcasting reel manufacturers make both right-handed and left-handed versions of their models for inclusivity. However, a few will be exclusively right or left, and you should research this before investing. It will be unfortunate to discover you can’t use your brand new reel when you are already on your fishing trip.

Why Use a Baitcaster:

If you are an advanced angler, you want to consider using a bait casting reel. It sits on top of the rod, so the spool is parallel to the rod. It is considered a more advanced reel type but can be used with multiple lures, heavier lure, baits, and lines, which will make a big difference when it comes to your fishing success.

Control:

On the side of the handle and next to the drag adjustment, you will find a small knob. This is known as the spool-tension control or cast-control knob. It will prove to be key to your fishing success.
Increased Reel Strength: Baitcast reels can also handle heavier line and allow you to achieve a longer cast when compared to spinning gear.

Fishing Line Weight:

Baitcasting reels are typically used for heavier applications. This means you can use a line that is between 10 and 25 pounds of monofilament or fluorocarbon, as well as a 30 to 80-pound braid. This means you can target heavier fish with no problem.

Considerations for a Baitcaster:

Here are a few more considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best baitcasting reel for 2022-2023.

Bearings:

A top-of-the-line reel won’t necessarily have a lot of bearings, but the bearings they do have should be of high quality. When looking at bearings, watch for shielded, double shielded, and sealed bearings.

Frame:

Most frames come in aluminum or graphite. Graphite is typically less expensive and lighter in weight. However, it isn’t going to be nearly as durable as aluminum. Therefore, a higher-end reel will usually be constructed with a one-piece aluminum frame.

Handle:

A good baitcasting reel will have soft rubber knobs that are designed to work with you.

Spool:

Most baitcasting reels come with an aluminum spool. A less expensive option will be made with die-cast. Forged spools are harder to scratch, while spools with holes drilled into them are lightweight and easier to start and stop.

Tension and Brakes:

Baitcasting reels also come equipped with braking systems. This is what adjusts and slows down the spool’s rotation as you cast. Without a braking system, you would have to constantly deal with backlash. A spool tension knob is also an important feature as this is what you need to adjust your spool speed.

FAQS About Baitcasting Reels

Still have questions when it comes to baitcasting reels? Then, read through the answers to some of the more commonly asked questions below.

What is the best gear ratio for a baitcast reel?

When looking at the gear ratio for a baitcasting reel, you will find that the more common gear ratio on the market today is a 6.4:1 gear ratio. This allows you to move quickly and slowly.

What baitcaster holds the most line?

A round-profile baitcaster will usually hold more line. This makes them the perfect choice for larger fish, trolling, and angling when you are in deeper depths.

What are baitcasters good for?

Baitcasters can be used for various applications, including light fishing, surf casting, and big game fishing. However, the most popular use of a baitcasting reel in North America happens to be freshwater lure casting for bass.

Conclusion:

If you are a more advanced angler or you want to target bigger fish and throw heavy lures, you want to consider purchasing a baitcasting reel. You will soon find that it will prove to be a more than necessary addition to your reel collection and will prove valuable on your next fishing trip. Thanks for taking the time to read my Best Baitcasting Reels Review Guide For 2022-2023.