Anglers go for baitcasting reels to improve on accuracy and casting distance. Ultralight baitcasting reels are usually used for smaller fish species and casting lighter lures. When you go out fishing with an ultralight fishing reel, you can be assured of less arm strain and increased comfort.
Manufacturers have outdone themselves in the manufacture of light weight baitcast reels. You can find a reel for any application at an affordable price. Shockingly, you will find ultralight reels with the power to fight even bigger fish species. Below are 7 of the best ultralight baitcasting reels.
Top 7 ultralight bait caster for the money Comparison Table
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1. Shimano SLX XT Series Casting Reel
Shimano SLX XT reels are made with the anglers’ needs in mind. The SLX XT series HAGANE body consists of a metal reel built with high rigidity and stiffness to eliminate body flexing.
This casting reel will give you the confidence to explore different water bodies and participate in various fishing techniques.
It only weighs 7.2oz and has 4+1 ball bearings that ensure smooth retrieves while eliminating backlash. In addition, it comes with a high gear ratio of 6.3:1 for smooth casts and a more rewarding experience.
Additionally, this reel features a Shimano Stable Spool design with the S3D technology with a thin wall aluminium construction to help reduce spool vibration and ensure smoothness when casting and retrieving lures. Moreover, there is a super free spool that is designed to eliminate friction on the spool shaft. This super free spool also helps keep the pinion gear and spool shaft in proper alignment. The reel also features SVS infinity braking system that increases accuracy when casting for consistent spool control and brake force.
Pros
- SVS infinity braking system
- S3D spool technology for smooth casts
- HAGANE body with high rigidity.
Cons
- Poor packaging and delivery
Related : Shimano SLX vs SLX XT Compared
2. Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Fishing Reels
This reel comes with the most advanced Daiwa technology giving you unparalleled performance even when dealing with the largest fish.
It only weighs 0.55 pounds with a gear ratio of 8.1:1 for smooth casts.
This reel features a Super Duralumin SV spool that delivers unmatched smoothness when casting. Additionally, it features a T-Wing System that ensures long casts with reduces backlash despite its minimal weight. Its ultimate tournament drag maintains a powerful drag so you can efficiently deal with the heaviest fish.
Learn More : Is Tatula SV TW Worth It ?
Pros
- This reel is tiny
- The T-wing system is smooth
- The SV spool prevents backlash
Cons
- It makes noise when reeling
- It is a bit expensive
3. KastKing Spartacus II Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Kastking reels are unmatched for their performance and quality. The Spartacus II series will let you enjoy unparalleled quality at an affordable price.
This reel features a sleek, compact size with only 6 ounces of weight. It offers a powerful carbon fibre drag of 17.6lbs, giving you the power to drag and deal with the larger fish species.
For smooth casts and retrieves, this reel features 7+1 ball bearings and a gear ratio of 7.2:1. Moreover, it features durable precision machined hardened aluminium main gears and a CNC Machined aluminium spool for reduced weight and increased line speed.
The aluminium handle and EVA handle knobs ensure maximum control and comfort when fishing. Additionally, the thumb bar dual spring system provides easy function and increases the life of your reel.
Pros
- Powerful and smooth drag
- Quite affordable
- Extremely light
Cons
- Not suitable for a beginner
4. Abu Garcia Revo MG Xtreme Low Profile Reel
Abu Garcia is an extremely light reel built with the strength to handle every tough situation.
The minimal weight is enhanced by the C6 light side plates and a one-piece X -Mag alloy frame that is extremely light and strong.
This reel comes with eight stainless steel bearings plus one roller bearing that increases corrosion protection. There are also two additional ceramilite spool bearings for long and precise casts.
Moreover, it has a carbon matrix drag system with a maximum drag of 24lbs that provides a smooth and powerful drag.
Pros
- The reel is super smooth
- Powerful drag
- Extremely light
Cons
- The reel is pricy
5. Shimano Curado MGL 70 K Low Profile Baitcast Reel
Shimano Curado MGL is one of the best ultralight reels. For anglers who prefer using light lures, this is the perfect reel for you. The reel is extremely light and small in hand, but it does not compromise its quality and durability.
The reel’s construction consists of a HAGANE body that is strong, durable and has increased rigidity. Additionally, it features micro module gears for increased smoothness and a powerful cross carbon drag that works perfectly with light lures.
Pros
- Extremely light
- Strong HAGANE body
- Casts far
Cons
- It’s a little expensive
6. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
With only 39 dollars, you can get this amazing ultralight baitcasting reel. This right hand oriented reel is constructed with precision-cut gears and stainless steel springs and screws for superior strength and fast retrieves. The reel’s strength is also enhanced by double line winding shafts that give you the confidence to handle any fish.
Despite its small size, this reel features a powerful carbon fibre drag with a maximum drag of 18lbs. It comes with five shielded stainless steel bearings plus a reverse bearing for smooth casts. Additionally, it comes with a gear ratio of 7.1:1 for improved performance and five strategically placed magnets that optimize the magnetic effect on the aluminium spool, eliminating backlash.
Pros
- Unparalleled strength
- Powerful drag
- Quality gears
Cons
- It needs regular oiling
7. Kastking Royale Legend II Baitcasting Reel
Kastking Royale Legend II Baitcasting Reels is a budget-friendly reel for serious anglers looking for small and light reels. The reel features a graphite frame and side plates for a compact and palmable shape.
The baitcasting reels come in two gear ratios there is a 5.4:1 model that works better when you want to work lures slowly and a 7.2:1 gear ratio for fast retrieves. Additionally, they come with 5+1 ball bearings for smooth casts.
This reel only weighs 7.2oz with a maximum drag of 17.64lbs. The small size of this reel does not deter its performance.
On the contrary, it performs better than some bigger reels. Moreover, the reel features an extra hard stainless steel shaft; precision machined brass gears, diamond shape ceramic line guide, EVA Handle knobs and CNC aluminium spools for increased strength and durability.
Pros
- Faster and lighter
- Durable precision brass main gears
- Comfortable Handles
Cons
- Poor delivery
Bonus Product : Ultralight Rod and Reel Combo for the money
Shakespeare Alpha Medium Combo
The Shakespeare Alpha fishing combo offers unparalleled performance at an affordable price. Get this product for your next fishing trip and enjoy the unfathomed performance of Shakespeare products.
It comprises a graphite construction; hence it’s lightweight. It is also pre-spooled with an 8-pound line for convenience. Additionally, it features a lightweight EVA grip that provides maximum comfort for all-day fishing.
Ultralight Baitcaster Setup
An ultralight baitcasters do not differ from any other baitcaster. The only difference will be in the weight of your equipment. To set up an ultra-light baitcaster, you need to ensure you have the right equipment, check on the lines, rod, reel, spool and drag system.
The first step in setting up your ultralight baitcaster is to run your line from the rod through the line guide. This helps feed the line to the spool.
Secondly, tie the line to the spool with a good knot. Make sure the knot is secure. If you have a hard time making the knot, pass the line through into the spool and give the handle a crank.
Additionally, wind your line onto the spool. Load as many lines as you wish but make sure you do not load too many lines.
The next step involves setting the spool tension. Since baitcasters have a spinning spool, the more friction you apply to it, the less trouble you will have with backlash. Therefore, you need to set the tension high.
Next, set the brakes. Whether dealing with magnetic or centrifugal brakes, you will need to set them to reduce backlashes. To adjust centrifugal brakes, apply light pressure to the centre or the side. Magnetic brakes apply more magnetically applied friction as you dial up the numbers on your knob.
Finally, set your drag. Use a scale and set the drag to a measured ¼ to 1/3 of the lines rated test. Tie your line to the scale and increase the drag setting until you attain the correct weight.
What to look for while buying an Ultralight Baitcasting Reel
You don’t walk in a store and pick your ultralight baitcasting reel. Before making a purchasing decision, you need to plan to avoid ending up with the wrong product. Below are some of the considerations you need to make when buying a baitcasting reel.
Comfort
Comfort is paramount when purchasing an ultralight baitcasting reel. Ultralight reels mostly will fit in your palm, and you need to ensure that you are comfortable when using them. If the baitcasting reel is uncomfortable, it will not function effectively, and the more comfortable the grip is, the better the casts.
Spool Size
When dealing with ultralight baitcasting reels, you will probably be using a light line. Therefore, you do not need a very deep pool. However, make sure that the line gives you enough strength and does not sacrifice versatility and accuracy.
Price
Price is probably the fast factor you put into consideration when making any purchase. When it comes to ultralight Baitcasting reels, budget in advance to avoid going overboard. You will find a good product at any price you set. You just need time to research on the products specifications and prices.
Drag
The drag of a baitcasting reel will determine how much pressure and power it can take before deciding on the reel to go with. Check the drag material and maximum drag. Even for an ultralight baitcasting reel, you need a powerful drag if you experience a heavy and fighting fish.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratios are essential in enhancing the overall performance of reels. The gear ratio affects the speed of your retrieve. Depending on your preferred retrieval speed, you can choose the best gear ratio. If you are eying fish that are easily startled, you need a high gear ratio and vice versa.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What fishes can you catch with an ultralight baitcasting reel?
Baitcasting reels are meant to improve accuracy and get rid of wind knots and line twists. Ultralight baitcasting reels also help improve accuracy and casting distance but are limited to certain fish species. Due to their small nature, you cannot use them with very big fish and very heavy lures. The preferred fish for these reels include panfish, trout, Bass and Crappie.
2. Can you Ice fish with an Ultralight baitcaster?
Anglers involved in ice fishing mostly prefer using spinning reels. But some people wonder if it’s possible to use a baitcaster. Well, although it’s not a very common practice, you can still use ultralight baitcasting reels for ice fishing. With the ultralight baitcaster, you will not experience a line twist, and it comes with big handles. But, you might have a hard time finding a rod compatible with your Baitcasting Reel.
3. Can you put a braided line on a small baitcasting reel?
Yes, you can put a braided line on a small baitcasting reel. However, you need to avoid using any line below 20lbs. A very thin line will dig into your spool and result in bird nests or snap while fighting fish.
4. Can I use Lightweight Baitcasting Reel for River Fishing?
With the different manufacturers and technological advancements, you will find a baitcasting reel for every application. Additionally, in rivers, you will encounter smaller fish that are best suited for this baitcasting reel. Therefore you can always find an ultralight baitcasting reel for river fishing.
5. What’s a good small baitcasting reel with a line counter?
A small baitcasting reel with a line counter is a reel that comes with a fish finder. This baitcasting reel helps you determine how deep the water is, where the fish are, and how much line is dragging behind. Therefore, with this baitcasting reel, you can be sure of unmatched precision.
6. What is the smallest Baitcasting Reels you have found ever?
The size of a baitcasting reel is determined by the weight and its size on the hand. Although there are many ultralight and small baitcasting reels, the smallest reel is the Shimano Aldebaran MGL that comes with a weight of 4.8oz, and it feels like a small bird on the hand.
Final Verdict
Choosing a good ultralight baitcasting reel can be challenging. Anglers look for different specifications, and that’s why you need to do your research well to avoid any disappointments. Ultralight baitcasting reels also work perfectly for beginners and anyone looking to improve their angling skills. Get your reel and explore both inshore and offshore waters, and with the help of this article, you can choose some of the best reels that offer superior performance.