Grab the best baitcasting reels for saltwater or freshwater fishing. Read these reviews on top baitcaster reel features.
Baitcasting reels are a more powerful alternative to speedless ones and have a number of characteristic differences with them. One of these is the brake mechanism. While in complex no-spinning reels, the braking is performed by the friction located in the upper part of the body, in the multiplicative brakes, this role is performed by the magnetic holders.
The characteristic of the baitcasting reel is the direct laying of the fishing line and, therefore, the absence of additional mechanisms (the line or cord is laid like a winch, without twisting). The inertia drum is equipped with a braking system. The force on the friction clutch is transmitted directly to the straight line to the drum with the fishing line.
In addition, a distinctive visual difference is the double handle, the convenience of which strongly depends on the length of the shoulder. These reels are worth a little more expensive than standard spinning reel, but they are more modern and can withstand much greater loads.
In this tutorial, we have chosen for you 7 best baitcasting reels, and we will review them one by one right now.
For more of our suggestions on choosing to buy fishing gear, take a look at the popular links: Spinning Reels, Spincast Reels, Baitcasting Rods, Fishing Sunglasses.
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Baitcasting Reels For 2023
- Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
- Shimano Caius Baitcasting Reel
- KastKing MegaJaws Baitcasting Reel
- Piscifun Phantom Carbon Baitcasting Reel
- Daiwa Lexa 100HL Baitcasting Reel
- Shimano Citica Baitcasting Reel
- Magreel Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Here is an overview of the features of our top 3 choices. Our guide and comparison table of top baitcasting reels will help you find the best choice for yourself.
Best Baitcasting Reels
| Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel | Shimano Caius Baitcasting Reel | KastKing MegaJaws Baitcasting Reel | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
|
| Weight: | 8.0 Ounces | 7.37 Ounces | 7.5 Ounces |
| Gear Ratio: | 5.3:1 7.1:1 | 7.2:1 | 5.4:1 6.5:1 7.2:1 9.1:1 |
| Features: | Precise gears paired with 3-layer high-grade carbon fiber drag washers | The dyna-balance feature eliminates wobble during the retrieve | The MegaJaws unique KastKing LFTV (Low Friction Tapered Vortex) |
 | | |
Baitcasting Reel Reviews
#1 Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of Piscifun Torrent:
- Weight: 8.0 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 7.1:1
- Bearings: 5+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 18 Pounds
The Piscifun Torrent premium baicasting reel is the perfect combination of a polished design with a great style, complemented by good catchability and full control over the current situation. Despite the fact that the main color in the scheme is black, it is impossible to call this reel discreet and uninteresting. Solidity and deliberate brightness gives it a point selection of some elements (mainly fixtures) in blood-red color, with a slight admixture of metallic luster on the drum and axial bolt.
The technical aspects of the Piscifun Torrent are also attracting attention, leaving out the majority of competitive models. The design of the reel contains only six bearings – a larger number was not necessary to ensure optimal operational and resource parameters. The baitcaster drum is equipped with a ten-stage magnetic brake, the peak frictional force of which is designed to hold 8.1 kilograms of weight.
The price is added to the already excellent list of advantages: analogs of such a reel in the market retail cost half the price, so choosing this baitcaster as one of the best is quite justified.
#2 Shimano Caius Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of Shimano Caius:
- Weight: 7,37 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 7.2:1
- Bearings: 4 stainless steel
- Drag: 11,02 Pounds
Despite the fact that the developers themselves rank this product as an entry level (in other words, it is best for beginners to fish), many experienced people also like it. This has to do with a few things. First of all, the rotary shaft has an affordable price and excellent performance. The body is made of the special patented Shimano XT-7 material, the spool is made of aluminum and practically does not wear out during use. Adjustable casting control here – The latest SVS brakes are responsible for this. In addition to everything else, the reel features a Shimano reel system to ensure trouble-free fishing.
Winding is done both on the left and below the right hand. It belongs in the high-speed category, as the ratio of handle revolutions to spool revolutions is 1:6.3, which is one of the highest in our entire review. The rotary mechanism works on the basis of four bearings. For a turn of the wind handle about 65 cm of fishing line. Fishing line up to 150 m thick can be wound on spool with a thickness of 0.25 mm. With all this, the product turned out to be quite light – its weight is only 205 grams.
#3 KastKing MegaJaws Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of KastKing MegaJaws:
- Weight: 7.5 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 6.5:1
- Bearings: 11+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 17.64 Pounds
A product from KastKing Company has taken third place on this list, because if you are looking to keep up with a multi-faceted launcher with an equally difficult and visually threatening launcher, then you don’t need where to look. MegaJaws, KastKing’s visual homage to deep-finned lions, is all about dominating the ocean floor.
It has a unique casting system designed in the shape of a funnel, which aims to significantly reduce friction and give you longer workpieces. At the same time, while designed to be damage-resistant, it is ergonomically designed to fit easily in the palm of your hand, most importantly its compact and discreet size will allow you to start move easily. Other features, like the 9.1:1 gear ratio and 11+1 double-shielded stainless steel bearings, make it one of the fastest wheels you’ll ever own on water.
#4 Piscifun Phantom Carbon Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of Piscifun Phantom:
- Weight: 5.7 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 7.0:1
- Bearings: 6+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 17 Pounds
Despite it’s not the smallest price tag, this reel is very popular, which, however, is not at all surprising. The device boasts excellent technical characteristics, a beautiful and stylish design, neat assembly, the Phantom is quite suitable for use right out of the box, without the need for additional modifications and analysis).
Separately, the reviews note the combined brakes (centrifugal magnetic) – they work efficiently and are easily and simply adjusted. The stroke at the reel is light, soft, smooth. Due to its low weight (162 grams), the Phantom is ideal for fishing on ultralight. In addition to the phantom itself, the kit includes a cool and comfortable neoprene case.
#5 Daiwa Lexa 100HL Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of Daiwa Lexa 100HL:
- Weight: 8.5 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 6.3:1
- Bearings: 6+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 11 Pounds
Daiwa Lexa 100HL is another baitcasting reel, but with a clear bias in difficult conditions. It is based on seven ball bearings of increased wear resistance, requiring periodic lubrication during use. In the case of proper care, according to the developers, the baitcaster can “live” up to 10 years, even if it is used intensively in aggressive conditions.
The weight of the Daiwa Lexa 100HL is 225 grams and doesn’t weigh heavily on the overall design of the equipped baitcasting. Reviews show a very warm attitude of users to this reel. In particular, to the load capacity of its friction clutch, which allows you to carry larger predators out of the water (mainly pike, chub, pike perch, trout, etc.). As for the cost, then according to the public, it looks very good, not bringing anglers to the need for excessive spending.
#6 Shimano Citica Baitcasting Reel
Highlights of Shimano Citica:
- Weight: 7.40 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 7.2:1
- Bearings: 5+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 12 Pounds
Proven Shimano technology powers the new Citica I Series reels, including the X-Ship, to smoothly grab your favorite bait. Shimano’s stable spool design ensures smooth operation. The main feature is the stainless steel ball bearing, which consists of 5 shielded ball bearings and one super-stop anti-reverse ball bearing.
Achieve maximum transmission distance and place your bait where fish live with the combination of the S3D spool and the easy-to-manage SVS Infinity drag system. The Citica reel is available with gear ratios of 7.2:1 and 6.3:1. Anglers looking for a strong and durable reel will turn to the Citica. The X-Ship system reduces friction and improves the durability of the rotating shaft. It is also equipped with an SVS brake system for ultra-precise casting control.
#7 Magreel Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Highlights of Magreel Baitcasting:
- Weight: 10.2 Ounces
- Gear Ratio: 7.0:1
- Bearings: 9+1 stainless steel
- Drag: 13 Pounds
About this reel, we offer you Magreel brand high speed fishing reel. It is equipped with sturdy and durable components with an aluminum tube, reinforced copper gears and stainless steel bearings. Available for both left and right-handed users, it features premium double-shielded 9+1 ball bearings for up to 13 lbs of traction and smooth casting.
With good longevity, it offers an adjustable magnetic brake system with 4 carbon fiber stop washers. Its gear ratio is 7.0:1 and thus allows for quick throws at high speeds allowing you to fully enjoy your operation with complete peace of mind. Offered in matte black, it features a diamond-shaped ceramic guide bar that reduces friction and dissipates heat. The machine is equipped with a metal handle with an easy-to-grip EVA anti-slip knob.
Baitcasting Reel Comparison Table
| Baitcasting Reel | Weight: | Gear Ratio(s): | Bearings: | Rating: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piscifun Torrent |  | 8.0 Ounces | 5.3:1 7.1:1 | 5+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,5 / 5,0 |
| Shimano Caius |  | 7.37 Ounces | 7.2:1 | 3+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,4 / 5,0 |
| KastKing MegaJaws |  | 7.5 Ounces | 5.4:1 6.5:1 7.2:1 9.1:1 | 11+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,4 / 5,0 |
| Piscifun Phantom Carbon |  | 5.7 Ounces | 7.0:1 | 6+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,4 / 5,0 |
| Daiwa Lexa 100HL |  | 8.5 Ounces | 6.3:1 | 6+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,6 / 5,0 |
| Shimano Citica |  | 7.40 Ounces | 7.2:1 | 5+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,6 / 5,0 |
| Magreel Baitcasting |  | 10.2 Ounces | 7.0:1 | 9+1 stainless steel bearings | 4,3 / 5,0 |
How to Choose the Best Baitcasting Reel
Baitcasting reels are rarely used by novice anglers due to their characteristics. It can be said that structurally baitcasting reels are a synthesis of inertial and inertia-free reel. This type of reel is the most “clever” in terms of the number of design features, ranging from adjusting the shoulder of the handle and ending with switching speeds of winding, amplifiers for pulling out especially large fish, etc.
They are used much less frequently, mainly for “trolling” of much larger fish (as a rule, these are power reels with a meter) and long distance casts. In contrast to the non-spinning, these reels have a lower rate of winding (loses in the casting), but, at the same time, greater susceptibility and tractive effort. In addition, baitcasting reels are stronger and last longer.
The choice of baitcasting reel depends on several parameters – the most important parameters are:
Best Baitcasting Reels Frame and Material
It turns out to be useless to explain that the reel is the spool of the reel around which the line is rolled up. There is not much to say about this element. Currently the best that can be found on the market, at prices that are not too exorbitant, are made of graphite or aluminum, light and resistant. There are naturally also plastic, cheaper, but more likely to deteriorate over time. The most valuable ones are usually made of aluminum and titanium alloys, or aluminum and magnesium, but they have very high costs.
The shape is another factor that can make the difference between one reel and another. Worthy of note are, among the alloy reels, the perforated ones. They are built in this way to contain their weight. An adequate height and a certain taper are then necessary for the reel to contain a sufficient amount of thread, and to make it easy to unwind.
A suggestion that could be useful is to prefer to purchase a model of fishing reel that is inclusive of more reserve reels, to replace it later would entail a greater cost, and it would be too slow, possibly composed of the same materials, different weights could cause imbalance in the whole rod. Finally, make sure that the coil is equipped with line clip to prevent spillage during transport. The reel frame also follows the same types of reel materials. They go, in fact, from polymers, to graphite, up to metal alloys. In the latter case it is necessary to make sure that the frame has been subjected to adequate painting and rustproofing.
One thing often snubbed by fishermen at the beginning intent on buying their rod or reel is the crank. Indeed, it is the element to which less emphasis is given. Yet even its characteristics are very important for the right balance of the tool. The materials used for the lever range from Zamak to aluminum and titanium alloys. Even the lever knobs range from simple plastic to rubber or wood.
Gear Ratio
Before defining what a reel gear ratio is, let’s look at the following: a reel gear ratio, what is this term? Any torque in many nodes of the mechanisms is transmitted through gears, when the two gears in the gear rotate. And one is set in motion from the engine (leading) and rotates the other (driven). Both gears can rotate at a different frequency, do a different number of revolutions at the same time. This is possible due to the different number of teeth on them. For example, if there are 60 teeth on the drive gear and 30 on the driven gear, then in one revolution of the first gear the second one will make two. And the ratio 60/30 = 2 and will be a gear ratio. Now let’s look at what the gear ratio on the fishing reel means. The internal mechanism of the product also consists of gears, a set of which also has a final value. When the fisherman rotates the handle, he actuates the gear (leading), which has a certain number of teeth.
It transmits rotation to one or a number of other gears that are engaged. The last gear (driven), which rotates the rotor of the forest laying machine, makes the number of revolutions strictly calculated by the manufacturer per revolution of the product handle. It is the number of revolutions of the rotor for one turn of the handle and is called the “reel gear ratio”.
Now that we know what a gear ratio on a reel means, let’s find out how it is labeled. For example, written on the case of the product “gear ratio 5.0: 1” means the reel gear ratio is 5. In practice, this will manifest itself in that with one turn of the product handle, the rotor will rotate around the spool five times.
A huge variety of reels is replete with no less variety of their frequency converters. Today, the gear ratio on the coil can vary in the range of 3.2-6.2. And how can a fisherman understand what better gear ratio in a reel will meet his requirements for fishing? Imagine that he chose a product with a marking of 5.1: 1 – how to be sure that such a gear ratio in the reel is optimal?
Let us consider the example of the minimum and maximum values of the inverter how to choose the desired option. The smaller the value, the slower the rotor turns, and vice versa – with a high value, the rotor turns faster. This leads to the following fact – “grinders” are traction (with a slow leash) and high-speed ones. Therefore, such a product with the number 3.2 (up to 4.5) is best suited for a heavy predator and slow and smooth leashes.
In this case, the fisherman can be sure that such a gear ratio on the reel is quite suitable for him. Variants of the middle category, a kind of versatile, this product with the frequency converter 4.6-5.2. If your style of fishing is characterized by fast and medium wiring, then this option is the best. The value within 5.3-6.2 is already a high-speed version, which is best suited for fast winding with an empty bite.
Smooth Running
This parameter allows not only to uniformly wind the fishing line, but also to feel the bait. The smoothness of the reel stroke affects the quality of laying the fishing line, which is subsequently reflected on the lure’s flight range.
Spool Size
Spool size depends on your method of fishing and the diameter of the fishing line that you are going to use. On each coil you can find the numbers 1000, 2000, 3000, etc. The number 1000 means that this reel will hold 100 meters of fishing line with a diameter of 0.1, the number 3000 will hold 100 meters of fishing line with a diameter of 0.3, or 200 meters of fishing line with a diameter of 0.15. Depending on how large you will use the fishing line and at what distance you are going to throw the bait and what size of spool to choose.
Best Baitcasting Reels Weight
On the one hand, the ease of the reel is an advantage for the angler, giving greater maneuverability and convenience. On the other hand, do not save on the material of the internal reel. They must consist of metal parts, which will necessarily increase the weight. Therefore, you need to look for a middle ground and know that the weight of the reel is still secondary.
To pick up the reel by weight is necessary to the existing rod. Only in this case will be able to achieve the perfect balance. To find the center of gravity of the rod with the reel, you need to put the collected gear on the finger. In a properly balanced rod, the center of gravity should be at the grip point. This baitcaster will comfortably fish throughout the day, without feeling tired in the muscles and joints.
How to Choose the Best Baitcasting Reel
Reel Handle
The main requirement for the reel handle is easy and smooth rotation. The method of attaching the handle to the reel body does not play a special role. It can be mounted with a screw or rivet, and sometimes the handle is screwed. It is important that the fasteners be made with high quality and reliable.
In fact, there are rarely any special drawbacks for these types of fasteners, but if the handle is attached by screwing in or a screw, make sure that the thread is not too small, as it can easily break when the handle is screwed in.
Brakes & Tension System
An important option in a modern reel is a friction brake. It allows you to pull large predator on a thin fishing line. This is made possible by straining the fishing line with sharp jerks of fish. But first you need to correctly adjust the friction. To do this, at home, you need to find the line when the brake will work before the line breaks.
Bearings
One thing that could easily escape the analysis of the reel we want to buy, due to a lack of skill, or not enough fussiness, is what concerns the bearings. It would be a serious mistake, because they contribute, at least as much as all the other elements, to the overall quality of the reel. Their usefulness lies in the fact that they make the moving parts more smooth, reducing their wear, and making the work of recovering and performing the line more gentle.
A good baitcasting reel should have at least 3 to 7 bearings, placed in the most neuralgic points, ie those subjected to greater stresses. Points where bearings should not be missing are, for example, the housing where the crank is inserted, under the reel and under the clutch knob. For their smooth and above all durable operation, they must be made of steel or aluminum, and necessarily sealed. A very important additional roller bearing placed on the shaft is very important.
Best baitcasting reels price information
The price of the baitcasting reel is higher compared to other types. Therefore, if you do not plan to catch huge carp, carp on the river or marlin in the open sea, then, most likely, the possibilities of such reels will be useless. If trophy fishing for you is a priority, then baitcasters will undoubtedly fall into your attention when choosing fishing gear, and you should definitely buy a baitcasting reel.
FAQs About Baitcasting Reels
How to cast a baitcasting reel?
Casting a baitcasting reel can be a bit more difficult than casting a standard reel, especially for beginners. However, with a little practice, it can be mastered. To press, rotate the bar so that the handle of the spindle is facing up and grasp the bar precisely with your thumb resting on the spindle. Then press the spool release button if your reel comes with it.
Bend your throwing arm at the elbow until the top of the bar exceeds 90 degrees, then slide forward quickly until the bar is at eye level – about 30 degrees above the horizontal. Use your thumb to press down on the reel to stop the bait when it reaches the target area.
Why baitcasting reel is better than spinning reel?
Spinning reels have many advantages: they are easier to learn, use and maintain, and have little or no backlash. However, in some fishing situations, such as when using heavier lines or lures and large targets, the angler is still preferred over the reel.
Additionally, baitcasters offer greater accuracy and control, allowing you to aim for a specific spot and hit it accurately every time. In case the actor is not good, you can also quickly stop the line and avoid possible problems. No wonder experienced anglers are popular with experienced anglers.
How to avoid backlash against baitcaster?
Backlash is a term used to describe a casting case where the lure slows down after casting, but the spool does not. This can lead to a series of lines, also known as the “bird’s next”.
Compared to regular reels, the risk of this type of backlash for baitcasters is much higher. Fortunately, many baitcasting reels, like the ones we mentioned on our list, have mechanisms to greatly reduce the chance of a backlash. However, there are also some steps you can take on your own to help eliminate the risk of a backlash. When using the new baitcaster, set the traction to maximum and try the transmission.
Adjust the setting until the tension on the coil is correct. You need to make your attraction fall just right at a reasonable cost of the cast; It must not be too high or too low according to one speed.
Final Thoughts
I hope that the readers have cleared up some doubts about the baitcasting reels dispelling some myth and shedding light on unclear topics. With these tips you will be able, based on your budget, to acquire your casting reel. It is enough to remember, that no matter which reel you buy or how much you invest on it, educating your thumb through practice is the only way to become proficient and precise with the new tool.
I hope you have found the best baitcasting reel for yourself after this tutorial. If you would like to comment, notice that the article content has not been updated in time, or suggest a baitcasting reel I have not included, please use our contact form to stay in touch.
Good luck on your next fishing trip!
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