12 best bait cast reels
Baitcasting reels are a type of fishing reel commonly used by anglers, especially those who target larger fish species or need precision casting. These reels are known for their accuracy and control, making them popular among experienced fishermen. Here are some key features and information about baitcasting reels:
Design:
- Baitcasting reels have a unique design with the line spool positioned perpendicular to the rod.
- They typically have a low-profile or round shape, with a spool that rotates when casting and retrieving line.
- The reel's handle is located on the side, allowing for precise control over line release.
Casting Technique:
- Baitcasting reels are favored for their casting accuracy and the ability to cast heavy lures or baits.
- Anglers use their thumb to control the spool during a cast, allowing them to apply just the right amount of resistance to prevent backlash or bird's nests.
- Skilled anglers can achieve long, precise casts with these reels.
Drag System:
- Baitcasting reels are equipped with a drag system to control the tension on the line when a fish is hooked.
- The drag system can be adjusted to accommodate different fish species and line strengths.
Line Capacity:
- Baitcasting reels typically have lower line capacities compared to spinning reels, making them suitable for specific fishing applications.
Gear Ratios:
- These reels come in various gear ratios, which determine how quickly the line is retrieved.
- A higher gear ratio reel retrieves line more quickly, which can be advantageous when reeling in fast-swimming fish.
Types:
- Baitcasting reels are available in two main types: low-profile and round.
- Low-profile baitcasters are more compact and lightweight, while round baitcasters are bulkier and offer greater line capacity.
Maintenance:
- Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and smooth performance of baitcasting reels.
- Regular cleaning and lubrication of internal components, such as bearings and gears, are essential.
Skill Level:
- Baitcasting reels require a certain level of skill to use effectively, as they can be prone to backlash or tangles if not handled correctly.
- Novice anglers may initially find them more challenging than spinning reels.
In summary, baitcasting reels are a valuable tool in the arsenal of many experienced anglers, offering precise casting control and the ability to tackle larger fish. However, they do require practice to master, and maintaining them is important to ensure their longevity and performance.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bait cast reels on the market
Abu Garcia Max Silver Low Profile Right handed Fishing reel
Abu Garcia
- One-piece graphite frame
- 5 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
- Power Disk drag system
- Duragear brass gear
- MagTrax brake system
- High-density EVA handles
- Machined aluminum spool
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do reels come with line or is it purchased separately |
| Answer: | I use 40 lb Power Pro braided line or 12 pound mono inside break set at 2 outside brake set at 7 I have 3 Phantom reels. They're all about the same. I don't even have to use my thumb to stop it. It will not backlash. Excellent baitcasting reels and they cast far. When you start to use your thumb more the real will cast even further. And you can ease off the brakes. |
| Question: | Does it come in |
| Answer: | I use 12 lb. floro with mine, used 17 lb. for a while but just didn't need that heavy of a line. As long as your rod can handle it the larger line just cuts your casting distance down. |
| Question: | Which one is the right handed version |
| Answer: | Why would anyone answer if they haven't tried it in salt water? I would not use this reel in saltwater unless you rinse it off after every outing with warm tap water then rinse with distilled water. If you submerge it in salt water it would be in your best interest to disassemble the reel to clean and lube it very well. This is good practice for any reel used in salt water. When salt water dries it leaves behind microscopic salt crystals that will reduce the life of your line because salt is very abrasive. Rinsing with warm water will dissolve and wash away the salt crystals. Rinsing with distilled water will allow it to dry with minimal water spots. |
| Question: | What is the option for right hand |
| Answer: | Much as I love this reel, I do not think I'd use it for deep water jigging. You'd be better off with either a round reel, Like Piscifun's Chaos or a similar reel for that job, IMHO. |
Product features
Abu Garcia Silver Max Low Profile
The generation of the Silver Max baitcast reel series incorporates updated styling with advanced ergonomics. Notable advancements include a new Rocket clutch mechanism that gives anglers the ability to engage/disengage the spool with one hand. This feature eliminates the need for anglers to turn the handle for engagement and is perfect for pitching, flipping or back trolling fishing techniques.
SHIMANO SLX Baitcasting Reels
SHIMANO
Product description
The Shimano SLX Baitcasting Reels are Shimano's new casting reel offering in the North American market. With a price point just shy of triple digits, a list of advanced technologies and features that are bound to pique your curiosity, and a clean-cut, sleek exterior finish, the SLX is surely a reel Shimano's competitors are cowering in fear of this holiday shopping season. A true workhorse offered in all the most important bass fishing gear ratios (6.3:1, 7.2:1, and 8.2:1), the Shimano SLX Baitcasting Reel is capable of a wide range of bass fishing techniques, from flippin' and froggin', to deep crankin' and drop shotting. It has a 4-bearing system with 1 reverse bearing and a maximum of 12 lbs drag. It also boasts the magnetic Variable Brake Adjustment (VBS) system that virtually eliminates backlashes. Top top it all off it's got Shimano's Hagane body for strong performance without any tilting or warping despite a lightweight body. Available in 6.3:1, 7.2:1, and 8.2:1 gear ratios in both Left and Right Hand retrieve.
- Compact, Rigid And Versatile
- Has 3 Gear Ratios To Choose From
- Has A Long Handle
- Hagan Body Technology Provides Stiffness And Impact Resistance Virtually Eliminating Body Flexing
User questions & answers
| Question: | What rod to buy with it |
| Answer: | Shimano makes the slx rod that would go nicely with this, but you could really use any bait casting rod. The shimano convergence is good. |
| Question: | How many ball bearings |
| Answer: | i believe its 3+1 but don't let that fool you they are in the right places its very smooth reel |
| Question: | What is the ideal lure to throw on these reels |
| Answer: | It's more about the rod when selecting what lures you can use |
| Question: | is this left or right handed |
| Answer: | The SLX150 is a right handed reel. The left handed version is the SLX151 |
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel 18LB Carbon Fiber Drag Baitcasters Unequaled Affordable High-tech Innovation Baitcast Fishing Reels
Piscifun
- POWERFUL- Advanced, 4-washer, gives the low profile baitcasting reel physically powerful 18LB carbon fiber drag to handle the big fish you are after
- DURABLE - Industrial durable-strength, climate-resistant Japanese Hami cut 3604 brass gears, these are all top quality gears you expect for baitcaster fishing reels
- PERFORMANCE - Low profile design bait caster featuring 7.1:1 gear ratios specifically designed for the versatile angler. The Super Silent high speed 7.1:1 Gear Ratio baitcasting fishing reel is perfect for getting fish quickly out of cover and faster fishing tactics
- UNIQUE - Unique side-plate oil port for prolonged maintenance for Novice to Pro to maximize your baitcast reel life and performance
- UNPARALLELED - Strong double wind shafts and backlash-eliminating 0-10 magnetic dial-in settings
User questions & answers
| Question: | Would this reel be good for saltwater |
| Answer: | It's the jewel size. |
| Question: | Is it oil or grease through the quick lube port |
| Answer: | Check shipping address is correct, then contact Amazon customer service for refund |
| Question: | Would you recommend this or getting a Piscifun Phantom X |
| Answer: | Dear customer, These earrring needed piercings. Thank you for your question and have a nice day! |
| Question: | Is it good in salt water |
| Answer: | well! As shown in the ad display |
Product features
Japanese Hamai Cut Gearing, Torrent reel has a bigger, stronger, reinforced main gear than the average baitcasters.
Abu Garcia Pro Max Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Abu Garcia
Product description
With its smooth drag and precise engineering, the Abu Garcia PMAX Pro Max Low-Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel delivers the professional-grade performance that serious anglers demand. This low-profile baitcast fishing reel offers precise, customizable castability thanks to its MagTrax brake system, which exerts consistent brake pressure to boost your cast's range and accuracy. The reel's Power Disk drag system provides the smooth drag needed to tame hard-pulling fish, while the low-profile design offers an ergonomic feel so you can outlast your catch. It maintains smooth operation even after years of use thanks to its Duragear brass gear, one-piece graphite frame, and machined double-anodized aluminum spool. And thanks to its recessed reel foot and lightweight, low-profile design, this baitcasting reel is engineered to handle tough fishing applications day in and day out.
- 7 stainless steel ball Bearings + 1 roller bearing provides smooth Operation
- Machined Double anodized aluminum spool provides strength without adding Excess weight
- Power disk drag System gives smooth drag performance
- Dura gear brass gear for extended gear life. PMAX3 C and MODEL: PMAX3 are both right handed models. The left handed model is MODEL: PMAX3 L
- Magtrax brake System gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast . Note :The Promax – C represents the clam packaging
User questions & answers
| Question: | what is the different between pmax3 and pmax3-c?Thanks |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Whats is the diference between the max3 and max3-c? Capacity |
| Answer: | 125 to 135 yrds |
| Question: | Is it right hand |
| Answer: | 20 lbs drag. Has handled redfish up to 15 lbs without any difficulty. I'm usually throwing 1/4 oz lures, so not sure on distance with bigger lures. I'm typically casting 40' - 60'. Great reel! |
| Question: | What is to gear is this 6 or |
| Answer: | I'm rigged for saltwater and am using 20# braid. |
Lew's Tournament MP Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel
Lew's
- Package length: 8.686 cm
- Package width: 11.176 cm
- Package height: 14.681 cm
- Product Type: FISHING REEL
Product features
Lew's Tournament MP Speed Spool LFS
Touting the P2 Super Pinion, the Tournament MP has precise alignment and stability in the pinion gear through a bearing support system, resulting in smoother operation and extended gear life. Match that up with a premium 10-bearing system and externally adjustable Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) dual cast control system, and you have one smooth reel. A bowed, lightweight 95mm aluminum handle with Lew’s Combat Grip paddle knobs, Combat Grip thumb bar, and 20lbs of drag power, it won’t shy away from heavy cover and big fish.
P2 Super Pinion
P2 Super Pinion bearing supported pinion gear provides precise alignment and solid stability, resulting in smoother operation and extended gear life.
Combat Grip
Bowed, lightweight, 95MM aluminum reel handle with Lew’s Combat Grip paddle knobs and Combat Grip thumb bar.
10 Bearing System
Premium 10-bearing system with stainless steel double shielded bearings.
Zero Reverse
Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing.
Multi-Setting Brake
Externally-adjustable Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) dual cast control system utilizing both an external click-dial for setting the magnetic brake, plus 4 individually disengaging, disk-mounted internal brake shoes that operate on centrifugal force.
Speed Gears & Speed Keeper
Hard anodized aluminum Speed Gears, cut on precision Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines and Speed Keeper hook keeper.
Lew's Inshore Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel
Lew's
- One-piece aluminum frame with three external drain ports on the frame, graphite side plates
- Braid ready, Machined double anodized, deep capacity 34mm aluminum spool
- High strength solid brass speed gears, cut on precision hamai CNC gear hobbling machines
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this right hand retrieve |
| Answer: | Just had mine serviced because the bearing on the tension knob rusted. Good reel but just to take care of it when using in saltwater |
| Question: | How much 20 pound mono will fit on reel |
| Answer: | I personally would not recommend grease. Use only oil, preferably "Reel Butter". This is a lightweight oil designed specifically for reels. And, use very sparingly. |
| Question: | How much drag does it have, and what kind of casting distance does it have |
| Answer: | The Torrent and the Phantom X seem to be close to the same,by the reviews I have watched.I got the Torrent to get acquainted with a bait caster .If you are already familiar with them,my next one would be a Phantom.It has internal magnetic and external centrifugal brakes to tune your casting more. |
| Question: | What size braid is good for this reel |
| Answer: | The Torrent reel is good in salt water. |
Product features
Lew's Inshore Speed Spool LFS
The Lew’s Inshore Speed Spool LFS is ready for whatever you want to throw at it. Three external drain ports and a braid-ready, deep capacity spool make it a workhorse on the water. With up to 20lbs of drag power and Combat Grip knobs, reeling in big fish is a breeze. Passivation treatment on internal components lends corrosion resistance, and the P2 Super Pinion gear results in long-term stability. Put the Inshore Speed Spool to the test.
Zero Reverse
Zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing.
Speed Gears
High strength solid brass Speed Gears, cut on precision Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines.
Combat Grip
Bowed, 95MM anodized aluminum handle with Combat style grip knobs.
Magnetic Control System (MCS) Braking
Externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS) braking.
7 Bearing System
Premium stainless steel 7-bearing system with 6-ball bearings.
P2 Super Pinion
P2 Super Pinion bearing supported pinion gear provides precise alignment and solid stability, resulting in a smoother operation and extended gear life.
Lew's Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Reel
Lew's
- Strong and lightweight, Super Low Profile (SLP) graphite frame and sideplates. Machined and double anodized aluminum U-shape 32 millimeter spool. High strength solid brass Speed Gears, cut on precision Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines
- A premium 10-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings and Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing.
- Externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS). Double anodized aluminum spool tension adjustment with audible click.
- Durable Rulon drag system, provides up to 15lbs of drag power. Anodized bowed aluminum 95 millimeter handle with Winn Dri-Tac handle knobs
- Double anodized aluminum bowed drag star with audible click adjustment. Quick release side plate lock lever. Zirconia line guide
User questions & answers
| Question: | If I want to hold my rod with right hand and reel with left hand. Which one should I get |
| Answer: | The model with the l at the end looks like it is a lefthand retrieve |
| Question: | Can this be used for saltwater |
| Answer: | It's 7.1:1 |
Product features
Lew's Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Reel
Lew’s Mach 2 Baitcast raises the bar in looks and performance of a quality baitcast reel. The Mach 2 features Lew’s exclusive Super Low Profile (SLP) platform that is more compact and offers superior balance and reduced torque for better control. The frame is strong and lightweight graphite with graphite sideplates. The 32 mm double anodized aluminum spool is fast-starting for effortless cast. Winn advanced polymer Dri-Tac handle knobs provide a sure grip and the bowed 95mm anodized aluminum handle delivers plenty of cranking power.
Zero Reverse
Zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing.
Speed Gears
High strength solid brass Speed Gears, cut on precision Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines.
Winn Dri-Tac Knobs
Anodized bowed aluminum 95mm handle with Winn Dri-Tac handle knobs.
Magnetic Control System (MCS) Braking
Externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS) braking.
10 Bearing System
Premium 10 bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings.
15lb Drag Power
Durable Rulon drag system, provides up to 15 lb drag power.
SHIMANO SLX XT Series Casting Reel
SHIMANO
- Hagane body is a metal reel body with high rigidity, impact resistance and eliminates body flexing
- S3D spool technology significantly reduces spool vibration and creates smooth casting
- SVS infinity provides east to manage, consistent spool controo and brake force
- Ensures precision casting easpecially when using lighter lures
- Super free spool was designed to elimiate frisction on the spool shaft during the cast
- Sport type: Outdoor Lifestyle
User questions & answers
| Question: | What’s the difference between the regular slx and the slx xt? what’s the xt |
| Answer: | The XT has an additional bearing, and an upgraded braking system. Go to You Tube, and search Ladybass for her video where she compares all three SLX reels. I’m ordering two more of the XT reels today. Pay attention to the three different gear ratios they offer as well as left or right hand retrieve. Get at least one today. |
| Question: | What rod can I use for both Flounder and Bass |
| Answer: | This works for bass. I’ve never caught a flounder. |
| Question: | New rrel for me. Has been awhile since i used a baitcaster. Can someone help explain each part of the reel to hone in my skills. Or a video or manual |
| Answer: | I would always pay attention to your spool tension knob make sure it is adjusted to your bait weaght but check out debos fishing on YouTube and he can get you rocking man |
| Question: | Are these right hand or left hand? it doesn't say anywhere |
| Answer: | 150 series is right handed, 151 series is left handed. |
Product features
SHIMANO STABLE SPOOL DESIGN (S3D)
Shimano's S3D technology leads to significantly reduced spool vibration. By designing a balanced and uniform thin wall aluminum constructed spool, S3D creates an incredibly smooth feeling when casting and retrieving lures.
SUPER FREE SPOOL
SF was designed to eliminate friction on the spool shaft during the cast. In standard baitcasting reels, when the clutch bar is pressed down, the pinion gear is freed and actually can drag on the spool shaft creating friction that can limit the length of a cast. With SF the pinion gear is supported by a ball bearing so that when the clutch is disengaged in preparation for a cast, the pinion gear and spool shaft are kept in perfect alignment. The result is zero friction upon the spool shaft.
HAGANE BODY
The HAGANE Body is a metal reel body with high rigidity. The body stiffness and impact resistance virtually eliminates body flexing. The result transforms the angler's actions directly into cranking power. It's efficiency through strength.
SVS INFINITY
The SVS Infinity provides easy-to-manage, consistent spool control and brake force. With brake weights that use inner friction against the raceway during the cast, SVS Infinity controls spool speed for precision casting especially when using lighter lures. The external adjustment knob provides for quick, precise adjustments for either the conditions or when you switch baits.
Lew's Mach Smash SLP Baitcast Reel
Lew's
- Sport type: Fishing
- Machine, anodized, large capacity aluminum 32mm spool o Graphite star drag
- Combat Grip thumb bar o Anodized, aluminum spool tension cap. Zirconia line guide
- Has 95MM bowed, anodized, bowed aluminum handle with Lew's Combat Grip paddle knobs
Product features
Lew's Mach Smash SLP Baitcast Reel
Boasting an eye-catching red color, the Mach Smash reel is ready for duty. The Mach Smash SLP Baitcast Reel features a one-piece lightweight graphite frame with 3 drain ports, high strength solid brass Speed Gears, 8 bearings, a 32mm spool and a 95mm handle with Lew’s Combat Grip paddle knobs for full control.
Zero Reverse
Zero-Reverse one-way clutch bearing.
Speed Gears
High strength solid brass Speed Gears, cut on precision Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines.
Combat Grip Paddle Knobs
95mm bowed, anodized, bowed aluminum handle with Lew’s Combat Grip paddle knobs.
Magnetic Control System (MCS) Braking
Externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS) braking.
8 Bearing System
Premium 8 bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings.
15lb Drag Power
Durable Rulon drag system, provides up to 15 lb drag power.
Abu Garcia Pro Max Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Abu Garcia
Product description
With its smooth drag and precise engineering, the Abu Garcia PMAX Pro Max Low-Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel delivers the professional-grade performance that serious anglers demand. This low-profile baitcast fishing reel offers precise, customizable castability thanks to its MagTrax brake system, which exerts consistent brake pressure to boost your cast's range and accuracy. The reel's Power Disk drag system provides the smooth drag needed to tame hard-pulling fish, while the low-profile design offers an ergonomic feel so you can outlast your catch. It maintains smooth operation even after years of use thanks to its Duragear brass gear, one-piece graphite frame, and machined double-anodized aluminum spool. And thanks to its recessed reel foot and lightweight, low-profile design, this baitcasting reel is engineered to handle tough fishing applications day in and day out.
- One piece graphite frame and graphite site plates
- 7 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
- Clear Tip design delivers added responsiveness and strength
- Duragear brass gear
- MagTrax brake system
- High density EVA handles
- Machined double anodized aluminum spool
User questions & answers
| Question: | what is the different between pmax3 and pmax3-c?Thanks |
| Answer: | I have the hs-l model and its 7.1:1 |
| Question: | Whats is the diference between the max3 and max3-c? Capacity |
| Answer: | That is not specified. |
| Question: | Is it right hand |
| Answer: | Right Hand retrieve! |
| Question: | What is to gear is this 6 or |
| Answer: | I am in Florida and we don't have Huskies down here. I can tell you the reel will handle big bass. I think it will work with a good rod |
Abu Garcia Zata Baitcast Low Profile Fishing Reel
Abu Garcia
- 10 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation
- Graphite frame and sideplates
- Carbon Matrix drag system provides smooth, consistent drag pressure across the entire drag range
- Duragear brass gear for extended gear life
- Infini brake system allows almost limitless adjustability to handle any fishing situation
User questions & answers
| Question: | What gear ratio is it |
| Answer: | You should get left hand retrieve (LHR). |
| Question: | Is it rated for use in salt water |
| Answer: | Hi, yes you can use it in salt water, or brackish water. You just have to clean it after using it with fresh water. And make sure to continue the lube schedule. |
| Question: | What retrieve is it |
| Answer: | The recovery is different with these two reels. pmax3 has a 29in recovery where a pmax3-c has a 8.3in recovery |
| Question: | Is it a good reel for muskies |
| Answer: | C stands for card. It comes not in a box but plastic covered card. |
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C4 Baitcast Round Fishing Reel
Abu Garcia
Product description
The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C4 comes from a long pedigree of some of the most trusted round fishing reels on the market. Enjoy smooth operation and plenty of power from the Amassadeur C4 thanks to features such as:
4 stainless steel ball bearings 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation
Carbon Matrix drag system gives smooth drag performance
Compact bent handle and star provide a more ergonomic design
6 pin centrifugal brake gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast
Synchronized level wind system improves line lay and castability
Duragear 2 gear system provides increased gear strength for all fishing situations
C4 Model
Line Capacity
Gear Ratio
Bearings
Weight
Max Drag
Inches Per Turn
5600
240yd/12lb
6.3:1
4+1
9.3 oz
15lb
30"
5601 LH
240yd/12lb
6.3:1
4+1
9.3 oz
15lb
30"
6600
320yd/12lb
6.3:1
4+1
9.3 oz
15lb
30"
6601 LH
320yd/12lb
6.3:1
4+1
9.3 oz
15lb
30"
- 4 stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation
- Carbon Matrix drag system gives smooth drag performance
- Compact bent handle and star provide a more ergonomic design
- 6 pin centrifugal brake gives consistent brake pressure throughout the cast
- Synchronized level wind system improves line lay and castability
- Duragear 2 gear system provides increased gear strength for all fishing situations
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is it exa or pvc |
| Answer: | I think its aluminum |
| Question: | Cual es la deferencia con el |
| Answer: | Todos los abu q terminan en 01.... son con manivela izquierda. Por ejemplo abu garcia 5601, 6601, etc |
| Question: | is it right handed |
| Answer: | It is a right hand retreive reel. Left-handed retrieve real would end in 6601 |
| Question: | de que origen es |
| Answer: | Just contacted Abu Garcia and spoke to a CSR. Confirmed that most of the high end round baitcasters are made in Sweden such as the 6600 C4. Anything else that you see at Walmart that has an Abu Garcia name on it is MADE IN CHINA. Getting me a 6600 C4 today. |
Product features
Ambassadeur C4 Round Reel
The tradition continues. With silky-smooth operation and power to spare, the new line of C4 round reels embodies trusted durability and engineering that generations of anglers have come to expect.
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