Best Baitcasting Reels (2024 Buyer’s Guide)

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One of the best ways to ensure your fishing success is by using a baitcasting reels. Previously, they were only used for heavy fishing applications. However, with the recent developments, there are baitcasting reels for almost every applications.

Whether you are using light lures or heavy lures you can trust your baitcasting reels. They are quite reliable and always get the work done. However, getting the right one can be hectic. Do you ever wonder why you are always experiencing backlash and birdnest with your baitcasting reel? Its probably because of the wrong choice of your baitcaster. To avoid these problems we have reviewed some baitcasting reels for different techniques or species.

At a Glance : Our Top 3 Picks out of 15 Baitcasting Reels

You may also Like : What are the Most Popular Spinning Reels on the market ? 

Top 15 Baitcasting Reels in the Market Reviewed

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best Budget
KastKing Royale Legend II

KastKing Royale Legend II

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎KastKing
  • Magnetic Brake System
  • Precision Brass Main Gear
  • Machined Aluminum Spool
9.8
View On Amazon
USA Made Baitcaster
PENN International VIS 2 Speed Reel

PENN International VIS 2 Speed Reel

  • Manufacturer : Pure Fishing
  • Suggested User : ‎Unisex-Adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Quick-Shift II 2-Speed System
9.5
View On Amazon
Best For Beginner
Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X

Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X

  • Manufacturer : ‎Pure Fishing
  • Suggested User : Unisex-Adults
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Power Disk Drag System
9.7
View On Amazon
Best for Tournament
Lew's Tournament MP Speed Spool LFS

Lew's Tournament MP Speed Spool LFS

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎Lew's
  • Suggested User : ‎Unisex-adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Multi-Setting Brake
9.8
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Premium Baitcaster
Shimano Tranx 300-400

Shimano Tranx 300-400

  • Manufacturer : SHIMANO
  • Suggested User : Unisex
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Cross Carbon Drag System
9.7
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Best All Around
Shimano SLX DC

Shimano SLX DC

  • Manufacturer : ‎SHIMANO
  • Suggested User : Unisex
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Shimano Stable Spool Design
9.9
View On Amazon
Best Ultralight Baitcaster
SHIMANO SLX XT

SHIMANO SLX XT

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎Shimano American Corporation
  • Suggested User : ‎Unisex-Adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Shimano Stable Spool Design
9.7
View On Amazon
Best Freshwater Baitcaster
Shimano Curado Dc

Shimano Curado Dc

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎SHIMANO
  • Suggested User : Unisex
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Micro Module Gear System
9.9
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Best For Freshwater & Saltwater
Shimano Curado K

Shimano Curado K

  • Manufacturer : ‎Shimano
  • Suggested User : Unisex
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Fishing Line Type : Fluorocarbon
9.9
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Piscifun Torrent

Piscifun Torrent

  • Manufacturer : ‎Piscifun
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Reinforced CNC Bass Gear
  • Carbon Fiber Drag Washer
9.6
View On Amazon
Best Baitcaster With Line Counter
PENN Squall II Level Wind

PENN Squall II Level Wind

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎Pure Fishing
  • Suggested User : Unisex-Adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Stainless Steel Pinion Gear
9.5
View On Amazon
Best for Long Casting
Daiwa Tatula SV TW

Daiwa Tatula SV TW

  • Manufacturer : ‎Greys Distribution
  • Suggested User : ‎Unisex
  • Warranty : One Year
  • UTD Drag System
9.8
View On Amazon
Best round Baitcasting Reel
KastKing Rover Round

KastKing Rover Round

  • Manufacturer : ‎Eposeidon
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Superior Carbon Fiber Drag
  • Stainless Steel Worm Shaft
9.5
View On Amazon
Best Baitcaster for Light Lure
Lew's Tournament Pro

Lew's Tournament Pro

  • Manufacturer : ‎Lew's
  • Suggested User : Unisex-Adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • Carbon Fiber Drag System
9.6
View On Amazon
Best Baitcasting Combo
Abu Garcia Pro Max & Max Pro

Abu Garcia Pro Max & Max Pro

  • Manufacturer : ‎‎Pure Fishing
  • Suggested User : Unisex-Adult
  • Warranty : One Year
  • MagTrax Brake System
9.4
View On Amazon

1. Kastking Royale Legend II – Best Budget

  • Max Drag : 17.64lbs
  • Handle Material : Stainless Steel
  • Reel Weight : 7.2oz
  • Bearings : 5+1
  • Material : Graphite
  • Gear Ratio : 5.4:1 – 7.2:1

At a very affordable price, Kastking Royale Legend II Baitcasting Reels offers an experience like no other. This reel has focused on durability, performance and comfort. Compared to the previous series, KastKing Royale Legend  II is more advanced and better in performance.

Its graphite frame and side plates are reduced for a more palmable and  compact shape. To enhance maximum durability and smoothness, they have a 30% durability increase plus a 35% increase in smoothness. Additionally, you can engage in slow presentations and fast presentations with ease given the 5.4:1 and 7.2:1 gear ratios.


2. Penn International VIS 2 Speed Reel – USA Made Baitcaster

  • Max Drag : 20 – 100lbs
  • Size : 3 Size options
  • Drag Material : Dura Drag
  • Weight : 36 oz to 169 oz
  • Bearings : 5
  • Gear Ratio : 5.2:1/1.6:1, 3.1:1/1.5:1 & 2.3:1/1.1:1

USA made baitcasters are popular for their sturdy construction and durability.  Penn International VIS 2 Speed Reel is no exception; it will leave you yearning for your next fishing trip. It is made with the angler’s needs in mind. Not forgetting its quality, reliability and smoothness.

The machine and anodized aluminum material is super powerful and corrosion resistant. Therefore, you have no worries handling different species in saltwater. Additionally, the sealed dura drag system is reliable and prevents any breakage even in heated battles. You can adjust the reels strike position to your preference due to the versa strike adjustable strike stop.

You’ll have all the confidence you need to deal with different fish given the two gear ratios. These gear ratios  let you switch between high speed and low speed without much of a struggle.


3. Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X – Best for Beginner

  • Max Drag : 15lb
  • Braking System : Magnetic
  • Weight : 10.2 Ounces
  • Bearing : 4 Ball Bearing
  • Material : Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 6.4:1

Get amazed by the Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Low Profile Baitcast Reel. The features, construction and reliability of this reel is incomparable. Its low profile design renders it lightweight and hence easier to handle. In addition it features a recessed reel foot for a relaxed feel.

Comfort is also not overlooked as the machined aluminum spool comes with an ergonomic bent handle. To fight every powerful fish you encounter, you can rely on the power disc drag system. In addition to this, the Magtrax beaker system exerts a consistent brake pressure enhancing accuracy and precision even for beginners.


4. Lew’s Tournament MP Speed Spool LFS – Best for Tournament

  • Max Drag : 20lbs
  • Weight : 6.9 to 7.0 oz
  • Bearings : 9+1
  • Gear Ratio : 5.6:1, 6.8:1, 8.5:1 & 8.3:1
  • Drag Type : Rugged Carbon Fiber

Tournament level anglers will enjoy the stability, smoothness and reliability of this baitcasting reel. Lew’s Tournament MP Speed spool Baitcast Reel features a 10 bearing system with stainless steel double shielded bearings to ensure maximum smoothness. To add to the smoothness its stability is phenomenal given the supported pinion gear.

Lew’s Tournament MP baitcast reel is also super comfortable. Therefore, you don’t have to worry when fishing for long hours. The 95mm reel handle with Lew’s Combat Grip Paddle knobs and combat thumb bar is super comfortable and it gives you maximum leverage when dealing with big fighting fish.


5. Shimano Tranx 300-400 – Premium Baitcaster

  • Max Drag : 18 to 22lb
  • Handle Size : 95mm
  • Weight : 6.9 to 7oz
  • Bearing : 5+1
  • Drag Type : Cross Carbon drag
  • Gear Ratio : 5.8:1 and 7.6:1

There is nothing not to love about this baitcasting reel. Every angler who has used it can attest to this. Powered with all Shimano’s amazing features, Shimano Tranx 300-400 will outdo itself in saltwater and freshwater applications.

The Cross carbon drag gives you enough confidence to deal with the biggest and most powerful species. Better yet, the XShip technology and HEG technologies provide high cranking power and smooth retrieves so you can throw big baits effortlessly. Additionally, the HAGANE body and viable brake system also lets you fish under the harshest conditions without fear of breakage or damage.

Related : What is the most expensive Baitcaster?

6. Shimano SLX DC – Best All Round

  • Max Drag : 11 to 12lb
  • Hand Orientation : Left / Right
  • Weight : 7.6oz
  • Bearing : 4+1
  • Material : Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 6.3:1-8.2:1

Don’t let the price scare you. Shimano SLX DC  is an all around baitcasting reel that delivers nothing short of the best. Whether you are setting out for saltwater or freshwater fishing you can rely on this reel.

To start with, the construction consists of a HAGANE body that is not only sturdy but also quite reliable in harsh conditions. The I-DC4 with a four setting externally adjustable brake dial gives you the freedom to use different lures in different environments. The SVS infinity brake system technology on the other hand,helps control the spool speed for accurate casts. You can also expect reduced spool vibrations and reduced friction given the S3D spool and Super Free Spool.


7. Shimano SLX XT – Best Ultralight Baitcaster

  • Max Drag : 11-12lb
  • Brake  system : SVS Infinity
  • Weight : 7.2oz
  • Bearing : 4+1
  • Material : Blend 
  • Gear Ratio : 6.3:1 to 8.2:1

For any angler looking for lightweight and compact reel can trust Shimano SLX XT Baitcasting Reel. Unleash Shimano’s best technologies and enjoy all your fishing adventures.

This baitcasting reel is made with perfection to ensure maximum performance, smoothness and durability. The HAGANE body is highly rigid and virtually eliminates body flexing increasing the anglers cranking power.  You can expect accurate casts when using light lures especially due to the SVS infinity brake system that ensures consistent spool control. Additionally, you can be assured of a smooth feel and effortless casting due to the Shimano Stable Spool design and super free spool.

Read Also : What are the differences between shimano SLX XT vs DC 

8. Shimano Curado DC Low Profile – Best Freshwater Baitcaster

  • Max Drag : 11lbs
  • Hand Orientation : Right / Left
  • Bearings : 6+1
  • Line Retrieve : 26 – 36″
  • Gear Ratio : 6.2:1 
  • Braking System : Digital Control

Enjoy your fishing adventures with this easy to use baitcasting reel. Shimano Curado DC Baitcasting Reel is incredible in freshwater species like trout, pike and bass.  Its improved features makes it possible to handle different size fish despite their fighting power.

To enjoy smoothness at its best, you can rely on the Micro Module gear system and Xship technology. Moreover, you are assured of superior strength and performance given the HAGANE body and the Digital Control Braking System.

Also Read : Shimano Curado DC vs Curado K Compared 

9. Shimano CURADO K – Best for freshwater and Saltwater

  • Max Drag : 11lbs
  • Size Options : 4
  • Weight : 7.6 & 7.8oz
  • Bearing : 6+1
  • Material : Graphite, Carbon
  • Gear Ratio : 5.0:1 -8.5:1

Get over your fear for saltwater angling with the Shimano Curado K Baitcasting Reel. Whether you will be dealing with the biggest or the most vigorous saltwater species these reels will get the work done. Shimano’s best technologies will make you want to fish more and more.

The HAGANE body will withstand the harshest conditions in saltwater. Additionally, you can be assured of smooth and effortless casts given the braking system and X ship technology. The A-RB ball bearings also play a big part in ensuring smoothness. These bearings are treated to enhance corrosion resistance making them more durable than the standard stainless steel ball bearings. Curado K is also lighter and stronger due to Shimano’s C14+ material.


10. Piscifun Torrent

  • Max Drag : 18lb
  • Brake System : Magnetic Brake
  • Weight : 8oz
  • Bearing : 5+1
  • Material : Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 7.1:1

Backlash is a major issue among Baitcaster users. To solve this problem, you need a reel like the Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel. This highly affordable reel will give the performance of a 200 dollar reel plus a taste of its unique features. Its unique side plate oil port solves the problem most anglers face of losing some parts while oiling or doing maintenance.

Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel Is super smooth given the 5+1 shielded stainless steel bearings. To reduce backlash, the reel features five strategically placed magnets, precise dialing gauge and a spool tension knob. It also features a powerful drag with four carbon fiber drag washers to let you fight the biggest fish. Anglers are also assured of stability and superior performance given the double line winding shafts.


11. Penn Squall II Level Wind – Best Baitcaster with Line Counter

  • Material Graphite frame and side plates
  • Size Options : 4
  • Weight : 116.8 – 24.7oz
  • Bearing : 3+1
  • Drag : HT-100 Carbon Fiber
  • Gear Ratio : 4.0:1 & 4.9:1

Penn Squall II  Level Wind Conventional Fishing Reel provides quality and durability at their best. Its powerful construction plus upgraded features makes it more reliable and user-friendly for different level anglers.

Its construction consists of a graphite frame and side plates, forged aluminum spool and high strength marine grade bronze alloy main gear. The Fast Gear Access side plate makes maintenance more user friendly. To deal  with the most vigorous and hard fighting fish, you can rely on the HT-100 carbon fibre drag system. You are also assured of smooth and effortless casts given the four ball bearings and gear system. It’s also easy to know how much line is left given the line capacity rings.

Also Read : Is Penn Squall Better than Penn Warfare ? 

12. Daiwa Tatula SV TW – Best for Long Casting

  • Max Drag : 13.2lbs
  • Size Options : 5
  • Weight : 0.55 Pounds
  • Bearing : 8
  • Material : Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 6.3:1, 7.1:1 and 8.1:1

Achieving long casts is an art that most anglers are yet to master. Most long casts are accompanied by bird nests and backlash leaving most anglers frustrated. Daiwa Tatula is a beast. With it you can easily achieve long casts with minimal or zero backlash. This is possible because of Daiwa’s advanced technologies.

The T-wing system delivers a T-shaped line guide that is larger, wider and less restrictive. This way, the line moves freely from the spool with reduced noise, backlash and friction. The reel features an aluminum frame that is super light and strong as well. It’s also quite easy to handle as it fits perfectly in your palm for easy fishing. The ultimate Tournament Carbon drag is quite powerful and offers up to 13.2lbs maximum drag. In addition to the long casts, the 8 bearings also ensure that these casts are smooth.

Read Next : What are the Most Popular Models of Daiwa ? 

13. Kastking Rover Round – Best round Baitcasting Reel

  • Max Drag : 15 to 30lbs
  • Size : 6 Size options
  • Weight : 0.58 Pounds
  • Bearing : 6+1 for size 40-60 and 4+1BBC on size 70-90
  • Material :  Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 3.6:1-5.3:1

KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel will amaze you with its sturdy construction and reliability all at an affordable price. With this Round Baitcasting reel you will be fishing  for species like catfish, steelhead, striper, bass and other saltwater fish comfortably.

The construction consists of a full metal body and attractive red anodized side plates.  The full metal body can withstand hard hits and fights. Hard fighting and vigorous fish will not be an issue since the carbon fiber drag’s power is unmatched. Moreover, the centrifugal braking system also offers more power when dealing with different species. With this reel you will also enjoy large line capacities and  comfort even after long fishing hours.


14. Lew’s Tournament Pro – Best Baitcaster for Light Lure

  • Max Drag : 20 lb
  • Size : 120/12 – 28″
  • Weight : 6.4oz
  • Bearing : 10+1
  • Gear Ratio : 6.8:1-8.3:1

Lew’s Tournament Pro Speed Spool Baitcasting reel is all about durability and maximum performance. It’s also quite attractive making it an ideal companion for stylish anglers. Its performance is unmatched especially when it comes to light lures.

The pinion gear enhances gear durability and provides precise alignment. The baitcasting reel comes with a zirconia line guide and external adjustable 6-pin 27 position quiet cast. Additionally, it features a speed dial line indicator for easier fishing. You don’t have to worry about the different fish you will encounter. The carbon fiber drag system system is powerful and efficient. It’s also super comfortable given the 95mm carbon fiber  handle with combat style grip knobs so that you can enjoy long hours of fishing.

Related : What are the top baitcasting reels by Lews? 

15. Abu Garcia Pro Max & Max Pro – Best Baitcasting Combo

  • Max Drag : 15lb
  • Size : ‎7′ Medium Heavy
  • No of pieces : 1
  • Bearing : 7+1
  • Material : Aluminum
  • Gear Ratio : 7.1:1

Having the right fishing combo will save time, energy and money. You will get the best combinations from renown brands. Abu Garcia baitcasting reels and fishing rods are famous for their quality and durability.  The Abu Garcia Pro  Max & Max Pro  Low Profile Baitcast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo will offer unmatched performance in different fishing applications.

The baitcasting reel offers smoothness and quality at it’s best.  The reel is super light and comfortable given the ergonomic bent handle. It also features a powerful and smooth drag system for the hard pulling fish. You are also assured of consistent and accurate casts due to the Magtrax brake system. The rod on the other hand, features a customized reel seat with an integrated polymer comfort grip. Its 24-Ton graphite construction is super light and sensitive. With it you will never miss a fish or movement.

Also Read : Is Abu garcia Pro Max better than Black Max and Silver Max ? 

A Comprehensive Guide To Choose The Best Baitcasting Reel

When choosing a Baitcaster there are a couple of factors you need to take into consideration. This way you can avoid making a wrong decision or worse ending up with the wrong product.

Material

The materials and especially the frame material will guide you in making the right decision. The most common materials are graphite and aluminum.

Graphite material is a light and relatively strong material. Any angler looking for a lightweight baitcasting reel should go for graphite material. It is also ideal for saltwater applications due to its resistance to corrosion.

Aluminum on the other hand is a favourite for many. It’s stronger than graphite and is better suited for big and vigorous fish. However, it’s prone to corrosion especially in saltwaters. To Avoid corrosion you can have it coated or anodized.

Braking system

The braking system on a baitcasting reel helps reduce backlash and bird nests. You need to be careful when choosing your braking system. There are three types of braking systems in baitcasters

  • Magnetic
  • Centrifugal
  • Manual

Magnetic

The magnetic braking system is located in the side plate of the reel opposite the handle. It works by creating a strong or weak magnetic force.

There is a dial on the side of the side plate that is used to either strengthen or weaken a magnetic force. By turning the dial to the highest number, you will move the magnets closest to the spool hence a strong stopping.  By turning the dial to the lowest number the magnetic force is weakened so the spool rotates more freely.

The downside of using this braking system is that you can never turn them off.

Centrifugal

The centrifugal braking system is located in the same positions as the magnetic braking system. It uses braking pads to apply pressure on a brake ring to slow down the spool.

Some reels come with an external dial like in magnetic brakes while others have the setting internally. This means that anytime you want to adjust the brakes you have to remove the side plate. Centrifugal braking system however is not beginner friendly.

Manual Braking System

This system is also your thumb. Every Baitcaster user is required to know how to use the thumb to avoid backlash and to have better control of your casts.

Gear Ratio

Gear Ratio is an essential consideration when getting a baitcasting reel. Your choice for gear ratio will depend on your fishing application. When focusing on powerful applications you need to set gear ratio perfectly. Low gear ratios have more power. Low gear ratios mean slower uptake. Hence, you can get your bait in water carefully and reel comfortably.

High gear ratios on the other hand mean that the spool rotates more time in one turn off the handle. These Gear ratios are ideal for techniques that require fast retrieval. However, they will not work for most large and powerful species.

Drag System

The drag regulates tension placed on the line when fighting fish. For a Baitcaster the drag system is expected to be powerful and strong. Depending on your applications you can choose your  maximum drag. More drag power will let you deal with the biggest and most vigorous fish. You just need to know how to adjust the drag to meet your needs.

Bearings and Materials

Bearings ensure you have smooth casts and also help reduce back lashes. These bearings come in different materials including ceramics, chrome steels, stainless steels and plastics.

Chrome Steel Bearings

Chrome steel bearings are uniform, fine and very smooth. Therefore, they are very quiet and very efficient in water. They are also extra hard and wear resistant. However, due to the low content of chromium they are highly corrosion resistant.

Stainless Steel Bearings

Stainless steel bearings are superior and preferred to other bearings due to corrosion resistance and great stability in high temperatures. When fishing in harsh environments they are the best.

Plastic bearings

Plastic bearings, although not the ideal choice for most anglers, are still used by some anglers.One thing for sure, they cannot withstand very harsh conditions. However, they can endure high temperatures, heavy loads and high speeds.

Line Capacity

Line capacity is the maximum strength of line a spool can hold without getting overloaded. A fishing line’s diameter increases with strength. Hence higher test lines are stronger and take up more space on the spool. The most common line capacities are braid and monofilament.

Braid capacity is generally higher than monofilament. This is because braid is made of materials like spectra fiber and Dacron. Monofilament on the other hand, consists of a single strand of line. However, it’s not as durable as braid.

Price

Baitcasters vary greatly in price. Their prices might be as a result of their quality, make, material or performance. Before getting your Baitcaster you need to plan ahead so that you can match your ideal baitcasting reel with the different prices. Due to the increased number of manufacturers it’s easy to find a good Baitcaster with almost every price range.

Do I Need a Right or Left Hand Model Baitcaster ?

The decision on getting a right or left hand model Baitcaster lies on the angler. It’s difficult to dictate what model will fit what angler.

Veteran anglers or anglers who’ve been fishing for years are more accustomed to using right hand model baitcasters. This is because these were the only baitcasters available before.

Right hand baitcasting reels have the handle on the right hand side. Therefore you have to switch hands when you cast if you are a right hand dominant. However for most angels switching the hands have  become almost  like second nature. For beginners though, it makes more sense using a left hand baitcasting reels if you are a right hand dominant.

On the other hand, for left handed anglers,  right hand reel will make more sense. This is because the handle is on the left side so you will not have to switch hands while casting since you can cast with your dominant hand and reel with the other hand.

Related : Left vs Right hand Baitcaster Compared 

Do I Need a Round or Low Profile Baitcaster ?

Choosing a round or low Profile baitcasters will depend on your fishing location, targeted species and anglers preferences.

Round baitcasting reels are characterized by their big size, big spool and more power. These reels are better suited for larger species due to their features. However, due to their big size they are quite uncomfortable.

Low profile reels on the other hand, are small, ergonomic, lightweight and better for smaller fish. They are the best fit for beginners and anyone looking for comfort.

If you eyeing bigger fish or setting out for heavy duty fishing a Round baitcasting reel will get the job done. However, if you are trying smaller fish and looking to have an adventurer’s time you need a comfortable reel and a low profile reel will carry the day.


Who Makes the Best Baitcaster in the market

Due to the increase in demand for baitcasters, manufacturers are on the rise. This is a good thing and a bad thing as well. With the increased number of manufacturers, getting a Baitcaster is easy. However, it increases the chances of ending up with a  poor quality baitcasting reel. But if you are looking for a reliable Baitcaster, there are brands that will not disappoint like

  • Abu Garcia
  • Shimano
  • Daiwa
  • KastKing
  • Penn
  • Piscifun
  • Lew’s
  • Okuma Fishing

Advantages of Baitcast Reels

Baitcasting reels have gained so much popularity due to their increased usage and advantages. Although there are some downsides of using them the advantages outrun them making them an ideal choice for quite a number of anglers. The advantages of baitcasting reels are:

  • They afford better line control.
  • Have large line capacities
  • Achieve long and precise casts.
  • Allow you to slow down lures so that they fall down in the water softly
  • Have high cranking power and more powerful drag

When is Baitcaster Better than a Spinning Reel

Spinning reels and baitcasting reels are quite different. That’s why they’re both used for different applications. Baitcasters are better than spinning reels since:

  • They are stronger and more powerful
  • Baitcasters can hold more line and heavier line
  • Cast linger and more precisely
  • Their spool diameters are bigger
  • Their drag is more powerful hence they are suitable for bigger species.
Related : Spinning vs Baitcasting Reel - Key differences explained 

How to clean a Baitcaster

Cleaning and proper maintenance of your Baitcaster will ensure longevity and proper performance. But, you need to know how to clean them to avoid any damages.

First you need to dismantle your reel. Most people avoid it due to the difficulties in getting the reel back together.

Get all the cleaning tools ready. These tools include:

  • Paper towels
  • Work surface
  • Mini Screwdriver set
  • Reel Kit
  • An old clean toothbrush
  • Lint Free swabs

With these you can start cleaning your baitcasting reel.

  • First, take your baitcasting reel off your rod.
  • Clip the lure off the line, reel it tightly to the spool and secure it down with tape
  • Release the brake plate from the reel
  • Remove the brake plate and the spool from the reel
  • Clean the brake plate as it accumulates a lot of gunk and do the same with your spool.
  • Inspect and clean the worm gear. This is the exposed gear underneath where your line comes off from the spool.
  • Clean the reel body.
  • Now remove all screws holding the other side of the reel.
  • Turn the reel on its side, with the handle on top, pointing towards the ceiling. Carefully lift it straight up off the body.
  • Set the reel body down with the gears facing up and inspect and clean the plate.
  • Inspect and clean the gears. Scoop out all the grease that is built up in every spot. Use your toothbrush to clean the main big gear teeth.
  • Once you get rid of all the dirt. Use grease on gears and reel oil on everything that’s a pin or spins like the handle knobs or spool spins. Also use bearing oil on all the bearings.
  • While greasing begin putting all things together and check to see if all things were put perfectly together.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Kind of Fish can you fish with a Baitcaster

Basically, you can fish almost every kind of fish with a Baitcaster. There are saltwater and freshwater baitcast reels so you are not limited to a certain group of fish. They also come in different sizes making them ideal for different size fish. But, due to their power and strength they are best suited for bigger fish like bass, catfish, grouper and muskie.

2. What Line for Baitcasting Reels

There are hundreds of fishing lines available in the market but not all can be used in baitcasting reels. Braid is often regarded as the best line for baitcasting reels. Braid have a high strength to diameter rating so you can spool more line and they are more powerful compared to other lines. Braided lines also have very minimal memory and reduced friction.

3. What Baitcaster holds the most Line

Baitcasters are known to hold more line especially when compared to spinning reels. However the baitcasting reel that holds the most line is a round baitcasting reel. This is because they are bigger and have a bigger spool compared to other baitcasting reel. Therefore, they hold more line.

4. Why Does Bass Pro Use Baitcasters

Bass pros usually use power techniques that require the use of heavier lures like crankbaits and spinner baits. That’s why they prefer to use baitcasters. Also, they fish more heavy weeds where you need great torque and heavier lines and there is no better reel than a baitcasting reel.

5. Why do Baitcasters have Backlash

Backlashes occur in your Baitcaster when your lure slows down during or after a cast but the spool keeps spinning. Backlash in a Baitcaster can also occur when you are fishing in the wind. To prevent this backlash, most baitcasters now have a braking system.

Final Verdict

Some anglers have always avoided baitcasting reels due to back lashes and birdnests. However, it is clear that they are some of the strongest and most reliable fishing reels you will come across. Their drag,construction, materials and line capacities confirm this.

Mostly they are made for heavy game fishing hence their reliablity. Most pro anglers rely on them for most fishing applications. In this article, we will help you choose quality and durable reels for all your applications.

Related Resources :

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