8 Best Low Profile Baitcasting Reels ( Top Picks for 2024)

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Low-profile baitcasting reels are gaining popularity, and anglers actually prefer them to other reels. They are comfortable, easier to handle, and lighter. Any angler who values comfort more than anything else will go for these baitcasting reels.

However, it would be best to be extra careful since some of these reels will limit you to smaller species and lighter applications. Make sure you get a low-profile baitcasting reel with powerful drag and enough strength for all water conditions.

Here are the comparison table of 8 best low profile baitcast reel for the money

ImageProductFeaturesButtons
Best Saltwater Reel
Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel

Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel

  • Weight(oz) : 7.83
  • Max Drag(lb) : 24
  • Gear Ratio : 6.6:1
  • Ball Bearings : 9+1
Check Today's Price
Best Premium Choice Reel
Shimano CURADO DC, LowProfile Baitcasting Reel

Shimano CURADO DC, LowProfile Baitcasting Reel

  • Weight(oz) : 7.8, 7.9
  • Max Drag(lb) : 11
  • Gear Ratio : 6.2:1 - 8.5:1
  • Ball Bearings : 6+1
Check Today's Price
Best Budget Friendly Reel
KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels

KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels

  • Weight(oz) : 7.2
  • Max Drag(lb) : 17.64
  • Gear Ratio : 7.2:1
  • Ball Bearings : 5+1
Check Today's Price
Okuma Komodo SS Large Capacity Low Profile Baitcaster

Okuma Komodo SS Large Capacity Low Profile Baitcaster

  • Weight(oz) : 16.5
  • Max Drag(lb) : 30
  • Gear Ratio : 7.1:1
  • Ball Bearings : 7+1
Check Today's Price
Penn Squall Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel

Penn Squall Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel

  • Weight(oz) : 8.1
  • Max Drag(lb) : 24
  • Gear Ratio : 6.2:1 - 9.2:1
  • Ball Bearings : 5+1
Check Today's Price
Best Overall Reel
Piscifun Alijoz Baitcasting Reels

Piscifun Alijoz Baitcasting Reels

  • Weight(oz) : 11.3
  • Max Drag(lb) : 33
  • Gear Ratio : 5.9:1, 8.1:1
  • Ball Bearings : 8+1
Check Today's Price
Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel

Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel

  • Weight(oz): 7.7
  • Max Drag(lb) : 12
  • Gear Ratio : 7.3:1
  • Ball Bearings : 9
Check Today's Price
Daiwa Reels Cast Low Profile FGCT100XS

Daiwa Reels Cast Low Profile FGCT100XS

  • Max Drag(lb) : 13.2
  • Gear Ratio : 8.1:1
  • Ball Bearings : 5+1
Check Today's Price
You may also Like : What is the Best Baitcasting Reel in the Market ?

1. Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel

This low-profile baitcaster offers impeccable performance despite its low-profile design. Featuring 9+1 stainless steel ball bearings, you can be assured of their utmost smoothness. Do not worry about the retrieval speed of your line, as the reel comes with two gear ratios the 6.6:1 and 7.3:1. The construction of the baitcasters consists of an X2 craftic alloy frame, so you are assured of its strength and lightweight. Moreover, you can be assured of all-day comfort due to the 90mm handle with PVC knobs for more leverage. Additionally, the powerful carbon matrix drag system ensures a smooth and consistent drag so you can handle different fish species. The Revo SX reel is powered by the Infini brake system that comprises a centrifugal brake and magnetic brake, giving you a wide range of adjustments.

Key Features

  • Dragger Brass gears
  • X2-craftic alloy frame for increased corrosion
  • Power stack carbon matrix drag system
  • C6 carbon side plates   
  • Retrieve Rate 27 and 30 inches                                 

2. Shimano Curado DC, Low Profile Baitcasting Reel

Enjoy the maximum performance with the advanced Shimano Curado DC, Low profile baitcasting reel. It features a digital control braking system, so you are assured of the reel’s durability and dependability.  Experience the smoothest reeling and cranking feel due to the micromodule gear and X ship technology. Don’t be afraid to try out new fish species as the reel’s rigid HAGANE body ensures its protection at all times. You do not have to worry about your level of experience; every level angler will enjoy less thumbing and smoothness despite your choice of lure and the weather conditions. Additionally, you get to experience a powerful and smooth cross carbon drag that provides a wide range of drag systems.

Key Features

  • Augmented with a digital control braking system
  • Micro module gear system and X ship technology
  • Cross carbon drag
  • Intelligent Digital Control braking system with four settings
  • Rigid HAGANE body

3. KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels

Explore both freshwaters and salt waters with this low-profile baitcaster meant to withstand every condition. You don’t have to worry about your comfort anymore, as the synthetic sift grip handles will ensure all-day comfort and maximum leverage. Additionally, you can enjoy maximum smoothness with the 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings and fast retrieves due to the high gear ratios.

You can easily tell where your spool tension knob is adjusted due to the micro click spool tension knob. Also, the ceramic line guide will help protect your line during retrieves, especially when dealing with heavy loads. The precision brass main gear will ensure the longevity of this product, so you are assured of its reliability even after years of use.

Key Features

  • Audible, Micro click tension adjustment knob
  • Ceramic line guide
  • Cross-fire 8 magnetic braking system
  • Grand touch handle grips.
  • Inch per Turn 29.8

4. Okuma Komodo SS Large Capacity Low Profile Baitcaster

Built with heavy-duty stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, driveshaft, and spool shaft, you can forget about other mediocre reels. Enjoy the best performance plus durability at its best with this baitcaster reel. The multi-disc carbonate drag system offers a powerful and smooth drag so you can deal with different species.

Additionally, the reel comes with an on/off clicker so you can enjoy trolling, chunking, and bait fishing. With the two available sizes and varying models, you can be assured that you will find a product that matches your needs. THE 6+1 and 7+1 ball bearings ensure the smoothest feeling, while the gear ratios make retrievals smooth and fast.

Key Features

  • Zirconium line guide inserts for use with braided line
  • On/off clicker
  • Precision cut machine cut  stainless steel pinion gears
  • Micro-click Drag Star System
  • Line Retrieve 31” to 37.7”     

5. Penn Squall Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel

Deal with different species in saltwater applications with the Penn Squall low profile baitcasting reel. The lightness of the reel does not limit it, the powerful and smooth drag HT-100 drag system gives you the confidence to deal with the largest species. Additionally, you can be assured of the smoothest feeling owing to the 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings and the high gear ratios.

The different sizes of the reel give a wide variety to choose from. The magnetic casting brake and machined brass gears ensure maximum durability and performance. On the other hand, the full metal body lets you experience strength at its best and gives you the confidence to explore even the deepest waters.

Key Features

  • Full metal body
  • HT-100 drag system
  • Magnetic casting brake
  • Line capacity rings

6. Piscifun Alijoz Baitcasting Reels

Available in different sizes, you can choose the reel that works best for you. Featuring an aluminum frame and side plates, you can be assured of its durability and impeccable strength. Additionally, the powerful and smooth drag makes it easy to deal with different fish species and baits.  The 8+1 ball bearings offer you smoothness you’ve not encountered before, plus high gear ratios that aids in the retrieves.

The handle ensures all-day comfort, and it fits in your PA perfectly you can choose between a double handle or a strong power handle. Additionally, it comes with an easily accessible thumb bar engage button so you can bump back the thumb bar without cranking the handle. You can also forget about backlashes completely due to the eight magnetic braking systems.

Key Features

  • Eight effective magnetic braking systems
  • Hamai Cut hardened brass main gear and pinion gear
  • Premium aluminum frame and side plates
  • Easy access thumb bar engage button.

7. Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel

Enjoy big game fishing with this baitcaster featuring a corrosion-resistant aluminum body and corrosion-resistant stainless steel ball bearings.  The aluminum construction ensures maximum durability plus a powerful and smooth star drag that gives you the confidence to go for the bigger fishes. Moreover, you get to enjoy the smoothest performance with nine ball bearings that let you cast smoothly without experiencing backlash. Additionally, the 7.3:1 gear ratio ensures fast retrieves so you cannot miss a single catch. You are also assured of utmost comfort due to the lightness and the soft-touch knob and rubber cork knobs.

Key Features

  • C30 lightweight side plates
  • Magnetic braking system Soft touch knob handle
  • Aluminum frame

See Also : What’s the difference between a Pflueger President and a President XT?

8. Daiwa Reels Cast Low Profile FGCT100XS

Experience the best performance with this good-looking low-profile baitcasting reel. You can be assured of the durability and strength of the reel due to the aluminum frame that offers impeccable performance. The reel’s smoothness is also a quality to reckon with due to the 5+1 ball bearings and 8.1:1 gear ratio.

The large 90mm swept power handle ensures all-day comfort and gives you more leverage so you can deal with different species. You also do not have to worry about big fish as the ultimate tournament carbon drag ensures a powerful drag. Moreover, the MagForce braking system offers a free spool with long and manageable casts so that you can enjoy precision at its best.

Key Features

  • Magforce braking system
  • Aluminum CT frame
  • Silky smooth, effortless retrieves
  • Large swept power handle with cutouts for reduced weight
  • Handle length 90mm

Best Low Profile Baitcasting Combo

Low-profile combos will ensure you enjoy long hours of fishing without experiencing fatigue. They stand out for their lightness and small nature. Most of them are also sturdy and offer superior performance despite their low-profile feature. They are ideal for all-level anglers. Even beginners will have an easy time handling and fishing. However, it would be best to be extra careful with these combos since you can end up with a less quality product. Therefore, if you are looking for lightness, comfort, and strength, low-profile combos is the way to go. Here are some combos that will not disappoint Abu Garcia Pro Max this is the best all-around low-profile combo. The Abu Garcia Zata high-end Low Profile combo also will ensure you experience superior performance and impeccable strength.

What Makes a Good Low Profile Baitcaster?

Choosing a low-profile baitcaster can be challenging at first. However, after you have used it for some time, you will know what to look for. Here are some of the factors that make a good low-profile baitcaster.

Weight

Low-profile baitcasters essentially should be lighter than other baitcasting reels. Therefore, you need to be extra careful when choosing the low profile baitcasters’ weight. Some manufacturers will consider some of their baitcasting reels as low profile, but their weight does not match up.

Gear Ratio

When choosing any baitcaster, you need to consider its gear ratio. Depending on the retrieval speed you want to achieve, you can choose a gear ratio that matches your application. If you are eyeing easily startled species, a low profile reel with a high gear ratio will help you achieve fast retrieves, and the same case applies to lower gear ratios.

Ball bearings

Ball bearings on a baitcaster ensure smooth and accurate casts. Therefore, you need to ensure your low-profile baitcasters will enhance accuracy and precision. If you are unsure about the right number of bearings, you can go for the standard number of six or seven bearings.

Drag

The drag of your low-profile baitcasting reel helps determine how powerful it is to deal with different species. When getting your low-profile baitcaster, ensure its nature does not affect the drag’s smoothness and power. Get the reel that can handle big fish and any species you are eyeing.

Comfort

Comfort is key in ensuring the superior performance of your baitcasting reel. When choosing your low-profile baitcasting reel, you need to ensure that the handle is long enough and has slip-resistant grips so that you have a good grip and enough leverage to deal with fighting species.

What Does Low Profile Baitcaster Mean?

A low-profile baitcaster is a reel that has a handle and palm side. The palm side is designed to fit in the angler’s arm to ensure comfort and ease of use. The braking system of the low-profile baitcaster is also located on the palm side. They are smaller and easier to handle compared to other baitcasting reels.

How to Cast a Low Profile Baitcaster?

A low-profile baitcaster is a little different from other reels. The low-profile baitcaster has a  constant moving spool when you cast so that you can avoid experiencing bird nests. Therefore, to avoid this, you need to ensure that you have a spool tension control knob.

  • When holding your baitcasting reel, put your finger on the trigger of the rod.
  • Your thumb plays a very important role after this. It helps you release the reel by holding the spool.
  • When you move the thumb, it releases the line. It works the line letting it out as it goes.
  • After releasing the line, the same thumb stops the line before the lure hits the water, and after this, you can crank your reel making your cast effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Line Should You Use On A Low Profile Baitcaster?

The lines you use on other baitcasters will work perfectly also on the low profile baitcaster. Braided lines are the most preferred for baitcasters. Therefore, you can be sure that your low-profile baitcaster will give you the best results with a braided line. Braided lines have less stretch and memory, reducing the chances of experiencing bird nests and tangles.

2. Can You Use Low Profile Baitcaster For Catfishing?

A low-profile baitcaster will excel in catfishing. However, it will depend on the size of the catfish and the strength of your baitcaster. It would help if you also ensured that the drag is set right and that the reel is strong enough to deal even with the grown catfish. With the technological advancements in fishing, you will find several low-profile baitcasters for this application. Examples include the Shimano Tranx 500, Daiwa Lexa 400, Abu Garcia Revo Toro 60HS, and Okuma Komodo 350.

3. Can you Use Low Profile Baitcaster for Saltwater?

Low-profile baitcasters will work perfectly in saltwater conditions. Do not be limited to exploring saltwater since you own a low-profile baitcasters. Like other baitcasters, low profile baitcasters are built stronger than spinning reels, and so they can handle most species found in saltwater. However, you have to check on the reels gear ratio, size, fine-tune and control.

4. Can You Use Low Profile Baitcaster For Salmon And Musky?

Musky can grow up to 50 inches long and weigh 40 pounds, and Salmon can grow up to 58 inches and weigh up to 126 pounds. Some anglers will prefer using the round baitcasting reels due to their varying sizes. However, if your low-profile baitcaster has a powerful drag and is strong enough, you can go fishing for Salmon and musky.

5. What Is A High Line Capacity Low Profile Baitcaster?

High line capacity low profile baitcasting reels mean that the reels have enough line capacity to spool sufficient lines. This makes the low-profile baitcasters perfect for large game fish like Salmon, steelhead, walleye, catfish, and bass. An example of these reels include KastKing Kapstan Elite and Daiwa Lexa 300 low-profile baitcasting reel.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a reel that will let you reel all day without experiencing fatigue, you should get a low-profile baitcasting reel. Anglers who have used low-profile baitcasters will not go back to using other baitcasters. Getting a quality low profile baitcasting reel can be challenging, but after you have the right one, you will be boasting different species after every fishing trip. The article above will help you make a purchasing decision when it comes to low-profile baitcasters.

Previous

Left hand vs Right Hand Baitcaster: Which One to Choose

7 Best Walleye Spinning Reels ( Top Picks for 2024)

Next

Leave a Comment