10 Best Baitcasting Reels Reviewed

Howdy! You’re about to read my review of the best baitcasting reels.

It’s no secret that most baitcasting reels are bought for bass fishing. Given that bass aren’t as big as your typical monster fishes, you can afford to have less drag in your reel. However, you will still need your reel to be smooth, light, and to cast well regardless of the lure.

Out of the many available baitcast reels, only these 10 made the cut. Among these 10 awesome fishing reels, I recommend the 13 Fishing Concept A Baitcasting Reel for anglers who are willing to splurge slightly on a first-rate reel. Whether it’s drag, smoothness, lightness, casting ability, or affordability, it’s got it all.

Don’t worry if that was out of your budget though, there are plenty of cheaper options to suit any budget.

Let’s begin.

How to pick a good baitcasting reel

Before we begin, this buying guide will give you a good idea of what to look for in baitcasting reels. This way, you’ll be able to better follow along when we break down each baitcaster.

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings reduce friction and keep your reel spinning smoothly. The more you have, the smoother your reel will be.

That said, for a smooth casting reel, 5+1 bearings is enough. From 5+1 onwards, each ball bearing will only increase smoothness by a small margin. 

Coincidentally, all the reels on this list have 5+1 or more bearings, so smoothness won’t be much of a concern.

Also, for those wondering, there’s always a +1 in the number of bearings because that’s the roller bearing.

Drag System

The drag system in a reel is the steel plates that prevent line from coming out.

Naturally, the heavier you set the drag, the stronger a fish will need to be to overcome it. Once the fish’s pull exceeds the drag, your spool will release the line. This is to prevent your line from snapping.

You’ll want to set the drag to 1/3 or 1/4 of your line’s pound test. So let’s say you’re using a 24-pound fishing line, your drag should be set to 6 or 8 pounds.

When choosing a baitcaster reel, you should look out for a max drag weight of ideally 15 pounds and above. That’s the amount of drag you’ll need to take on the largest bass.

Gear Ratio

Gear ratios are measures of how many times your spool turns for each turn of the handle. This matters because higher gear ratios allow you to retrieve more line for each turn. In other words, a higher gear ratio translates to less effort in retrieval.

For baitcasters, 5:1 is one of the slower gear ratios while 7:1 is one of the faster gear ratios. 

You should consider the lures you’ll be using when deciding on your reels’ gear ratios. You should get a higher gear ratio for lures that require faster retrieves. And vice versa, you should get a lower gear ratio for slower lures. 

I recommend getting a 6:1 gear ratio so that you can fish both slow and fast lures.

Material

Most reels will be constructed from either graphite or anodized aluminum. 

The difference between the two materials is that graphite will be lighter while anodized aluminum will be tougher.

For those having difficulty choosing, consider this. A graphite spool will be lighter but less strong, while an anodized aluminum spool will be heavier but sturdier.

Low Profile VS Round Reels

Round baitcasting reels tend to have larger builds, meaning they can hold more fishing line. They also tend to have more drag and are more versatile, being able to handle both finesse and heavy fishing.

The thing is, low profile baitcasting reels are much easier to palm, which equals to more comfort. They’re also usually lighter.

Given that you don’t need that much drag or line capacity for bass, it makes much more sense to get a low profile reel which will be lighter and more comfortable to use.

The 10 Best Baitcasting Reels

For those wondering whether these baitcasting reels belong to the round reel or low profile baitcasting reel category, to clarify, all 10 of the reels are low profile.

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Best Overall

1. 13 Fishing Concept A

• Ball Bearings: 6+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 6.6-8.1:1
• Max Drag Weight: 22 pounds
• Weight: 6.8 ounces

The first baitcaster is the best baitcaster overall – the 13 Fishing Concept A. It’s nearly unrivalled in casting, light, durable, and powerful enough for any bass.

First off, this incredible reel was designed to cast better and further than other baitcasters. The most commonly faced problem with baitcaster reels is trouble casting with light lures and lines. Not only does this reel have no such issue, but it can also cast further than even the top baitcasting reels.

Weight-wise, at just 6.8 ounces, it’s the second lightest reel on this list and one of the lightest on the market. With this reel, you’ll be able to fish long hours on the water without becoming fatigued.

On top of that, the stainless steel anti-corrosion bearings are durable enough to fish in saltwater.

Most importantly, you’ll need 15 pounds of drag to take on the monster bass. This reel has a whopping 22 pounds of it. You’ll have no trouble even if you want to catch big fish like salmon.

All this is pointless though if you can’t afford it, which is why you’ll be glad to hear it’s very reasonably priced. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line baitcasting reel to take on bass or even bigger fishes, look no further.

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Best Splurge

2. Shimano Curado DC

• Ball Bearings: 6+1
• Reel Size: 1500
• Gear Ratio: 6.2-8.5:1
• Max Drag Weight: 11 pounds
• Weight: 7.8-7.9 ounces

As usual, Shimano’s state-of-the-art technologies place their reels at the top of the hierarchy. The Shimano Curado DC will cast further and more easily than any reel you’ve ever used.

Remember how I said the Concept A was almost unrivalled in casting? This is the reel that beats it. It’s able to do so thanks to the Intelligent Digital Control braking system (I-DC 4) and Super Free Spool.

The digital braking system utilises a microcomputer to keep track of the spool an unbelievable 1000 times per second and applies just the right amount of brake to prevent backlash and maximize casting distance. The best part is that there are 4 different modes so that you can cast just about any lure you want with any fishing line, whether it’s fluorocarbon or monofilament. This means this reel isn’t just able to cast both heavy and light lures, but you’ll also face line twist much less often.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the Super Free Spool further enhances the casting capabilities of the reel. With this reel technology, the pinion gear is supported by a ball bearing so that the pinion gear and spool shaft will be in perfect alignment when the clutch is disengaged. This results in zero friction on the spool shaft, thus allowing you to cast even further.

The only flaw with this reel is its drag. At 11 pounds, you’ll be able to snag some relatively sizeable bass, but you’ll have a hard time with the biggest ones.

Other than that though, this reel excels in all areas. If you’re looking for the absolute best baitcasting reel and have the money to spare, this is it.

Also, the product page doesn’t state the full specifications, so here they are.

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Best Retrieval Speed

3. Abu Garcia Revo Rocket

• Ball Bearings: 10+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 10.1:1
• Max Drag Weight: 18 pounds
• Weight: 7.3 ounces

Next up, we have the fastest baitcasting reel on the list – the Abu Garcia Revo Rocket. 

As the name suggests, its retrieval is fast as a rocket. With a high gear ratio of 10.1:1, a single turn of the handle will reel in a ton of line. This makes it ideal for lures that require super fast retrieves. It also takes a lot less effort to get fish out of the water into your hands since you’ll need much fewer turns.

But that’s not the only reason to get this reel. Apart from its lightning fast retrieve, it’s also got strength and exceptional smoothness.

For strength, it’s got 18 pounds of braking power to stop even prize bass in their tracks.

For exceptional smoothness, there are 10+1 bearings. It’s also nice that they’re corrosion-resistant, so you can safely use this reel for saltwater fishing.

To sum it up, you’ll want to get this reel if you want to spend the least effort when there’s a fish at the end of your line. And of course, don’t forget that it’s also robust and smooth like butter.

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Best Line Capacity

4. Daiwa Coastal TW

• Ball Bearings: 7+1
• Reel Size: 2000
• Gear Ratio: 7.3:1
• Max Drag Weight: 15.4 pounds
• Weight: 8.1 ounces

When it comes to line capacity, few reels can match the Daiwa Coastal TW.

This reel features the T-Wing System (TWS) that allows line to exit the spool with minimal line angle and friction. This reduces noise and backlash and delivers more accurate and longer casts.

Moreover, as you’ll notice, this is the largest reel on this list, and thus it has the most line capacity. However, while rare, there are casting reels on the market that can compete and even surpass this reel’s line capacity. 

What they can’t beat though, is its well-roundedness.

With 15.4 pounds of drag, 7+1 corrosion-resistant bearings for smoothness, and TWS for casting, it’s got it all.

The only qualm I have with this reel is that like most other baitcasting reels, you won’t be able to cast lighter lures very far. To cast any sort of distance, your lure will have to weigh at least 1/2 ounce.

That aside, the Daiwa Coastal TW has no flaws. For those looking for a baitcaster with more line capacity, you won’t find a better one than this.

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5. Lew’s Tournament Pro Speed Spool LFS

• Ball Bearings: 10+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 6.8-8.3:1
• Max Drag Weight: 20 pounds
• Weight: 6.4 ounces

On to the next reel, the Lew’s Tournament Pro Speed Spool LFS possesses astounding lightness, smoothness, and strength.

Right off the bat, the 6.4 ounces stands out as the lightest on the list. With this reel, you can expect to feel fresh even after a long day of fishing. 

I was also blown away by this reel’s smoothness when I put it to the test. This is likely due to its 10+1 double-shielded ball bearings. Even though the Abu Garcia Revo Rocket has the same number of bearings, they’re not double-shielded to keep debris away. As such, the Lew’s Speed Spool LFS is still the smoothest. 

As for strength, 20 pounds of stopping power gives you the confidence to go after any bass, regardless of its size. In fact, you’ll be able to handle even larger fishes like walleyes.

In short, this is an unbelievably light and smooth reel that won’t let you down, whatever bass you’re up against.

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Best For Beginners

6. Abu Garcia Max Pro

• Ball Bearings: 7+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 7.1:1
• Max Drag Weight: 15 pounds
• Weight: 7.4-13.2 ounces

Next on the list is the Abu Garcia Max Pro. I included this reel because I feel it’s perfect for beginners.

Baitcasters are without a doubt harder to use than spinning reels. That’s why I’m sure some beginners will appreciate an easier-to-use baitcaster over a more complicated one, even if the more complicated one may be of higher quality.

The Abu Garcia Max Pro isn’t specifically tailored for beginners, but from my personal experience, it’s the easiest and most instinctive baitcast reel to use on the market.

I also like that to keep costs down, this reel doesn’t overdeliver in any area. It isn’t the best baitcasting reel in any particular aspect, like smoothness or power, but you’re getting everything you’ll need.

Beginners who are looking for a premium baitcaster but without the premium price tag, this fishing reel was made for you.

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Best Budget Lightness

7. Daiwa Tatula 100

• Ball Bearings: 7+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 6.3-8.1:1
• Max Drag Weight: 11 pounds
• Weight: 6.9 ounces

If you value lightness above all but found the lighter premium reel options too costly, you’re going to love the Daiwa Tatula 100.

Weighing in at 6.9 ounces, it’s the third lightest reel on the list, just 0.1 ounce behind the Concept A.

I shan’t elaborate on the other components, but by now, you should be able to tell this is a solid fishing reel with great specifications.

Although priced at roughly $150, it isn’t exactly a budget budget reel, but it’s as close as it gets if you want both quality and lightness. If you don’t want to pay over $200 for a reel below 7 ounces, you might want to check this reel out.

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Best Budget

8. KastKing Royale Legend GT

• Ball Bearings: 5+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 7.2:1
• Max Drag Weight: 17.6 pounds
• Weight: 7.2 ounces

Cheap but able to perform, the KastKing Royale Legend GT is the best budget baitcasting reel out there.

As you can see from the listed features, it has sufficient bearings to run smoothly, enough drag for the whole range of bass, and it’s a pretty lightweight reel at 7.2 ounces.

While this might not be very impressive when compared to the more expensive baitcasting reels, keep in mind that you’re paying less than 40 bucks.

Of course, it comes with the usual casting reel drawback of incompatibility with lighter lines and lures. Still, you’re getting a ton of value at this price.

When you’re on a tight budget, the KastKing Royale Legend GT is exactly what you need. For the price of a few cups of coffee, you’ll have yourself a well-functioning baitcaster.

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Best Budget Power

9. Piscifun Torrent

• Ball Bearings: 5+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 5.3-7.1:1
• Max Drag Weight: 18 pounds
• Weight: 8 ounces

Another budget baitcasting reel reel, the Piscifun Torrent is a great alternative to the Royale Legend GT.

Users of the Piscifun Torrent will appreciate its strength and casting prowess. It’s nowhere near what you’ll get with the more expensive baitcasters, but compared to the Royale Legend GT, you’ll be able to use lines and lures that are a little lighter and you’ll have a tad more drag.

Do note that you’ll need to lubricate this reel right out of the box though. If that isn’t an issue, this just might be the reel for you.

P.S. If you use my code SENSEI15 on Piscifun, you’ll get 15% off your first order!

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Best Power

10. Abu Garcia Revo SX

• Ball Bearings: 9+1
• Reel Size: 1000
• Gear Ratio: 6.6-7.3:1
• Max Drag Weight: 24 pounds
• Weight: 7.8 ounces

Last on the list, the Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Reel boasts the most powerful drag thus far.

If you recall from earlier, you’ll need 15 pounds of drag for bass fishing. Well, the Abu Garcia Revo SX offers so much drag that you can even take it musky fishing. This means you can target a much wider variety of fishes.

Clearly, power is the main focus of this reel. However, you can tell that it doesn’t neglect other aspects from the 9+1 stainless steel ball bearings that give it amazing smoothness.

The only problem with this reel is that the sideplate button is positioned such that it’s easy to click it by accident while casting.

All things considered though, if you want a powerful baitcaster, you could do a lot worse than the Abu Garcia Revo SX.

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Comparison Table

	13 Fishing Concept A	Shimano Curado DC	Abu Garcia Revo Rocket	Daiwa Coastal TW	Lew’s Tournament Pro Speed Spool LFs	Abu Garcia Max Pro	Daiwa Tatula 100	KastKing Royale Legend GT	Piscifun Torrent	Abu Garcia Revo SX
Ball Bearings	6+1	6+1	10+1	7+1	10+1	7+1	7+1	5+1	5+1	9+1
Reel Size	1000	1500	1000	2000	1000	1000	1000	1000	1000	1000
Gear Ratio	6.6- 8.1	6.2-8.5	10.1	7.3	6.8-8.3	7.1	6.3-8.1	7.2	5.3-7.1	6.6-7.3
Max Drag Weight (pounds)	22	11	18	15.4	20	15	11	17.6	18	24
Weight (ounces)	6.8	7.9	7.3	8.1	6.4	7.4-13.2	6.9	7.2	8	7.8

Baitcaster Advantages Over Spinning Reels

If you’re here, it probably means you want a baitcasting reel. 

In case you still aren’t sure whether a baitcaster is the right choice though, here are all the advantages that a baitcasting reel grants over a spinning reel.

Heavier Tackle

First off, baitcasters work way better with heavier lures. On the other hand, spinning reels are more suitable for lighter lures. 

While it isn’t always the case, more often than not, you’ll be casting big baits farther with a baitcasting rod and reel and light lures farther with a spinning rod and reel.

And similar to lures, heavier lines (above 10-pound test) tend to be more compatible with baitcasting gear. Light lines (below 10-pound test) usually work better with spinning gear.

Reduced Line Twists

Most anglers would agree that line twists happen more often with a spinning reel than a baitcaster.

As compared to a spinning reel, when the line on a baitcaster goes out, the spool rotates in the same direction. This makes baitcasting reels much less prone to line twists. And this of course equals to a lot less frustration.

Casting Distance

For that same reason, you also get a lot more casting distance. With the spool rotating the same way as line comes out, there’s less friction and resistance on the line, thereby enabling you to cast farther.

Casting Accuracy

Finally, baitcasters offer a lot more casting accuracy than spinning reels.

Unlike spinning reels, with casting reels, your spool spins freely. By using your thumb as the brake, it’s possible to control the outgoing line with pinpoint accuracy.

At this point, it may seem like baitcasters have spinning reels beat. However, the final factor to consider is ease of use. As the only brake you’ll have on your baitcaster is your thumb, it’s a lot harder to use properly. 

Many beginners have gone home empty-handed when fishing with a baitcasting reel for the first time. 

Once you’ve mastered using baitcasting reels though, your fishing trips will be much more bountiful. Even though it may be hard, you’ll be able to take your fishing game to the next level once you’re able to use baitcasters.

My Verdict

To reiterate, a considerable percentage of baitcasting reels are unable to cast far with light lines and lures. But not all baitcasters were created equal.

The reels on this list are the best fishing reels on the market and are a cut above the rest, so you can rest assured they won’t give you those problems. 

For those who still can’t make up their minds, you can’t go wrong with the 13 Fishing Concept A. It’s sturdy, smooth, lightweight, and won’t break the bank.

If that didn’t float your boat, there’re plenty of other reels on the list to expand your arsenal of fishing gear, regardless of your budget. I hope you find one that you like. 

On a side note, chances are, you’re a bass angler who’s getting a baitcaster because you’ve heard that professional bass anglers recommend using baitcasting reels. That’s why I compiled this list of the best bass fishing rods for you.

All the best!