Find Your Best Baitcasting Reel for Fishing: Reviews
If you want to master stealthy lure presentations that will catch more fish, looking at the best baitcasting reels should be high on your to-do list. While spinning reels have their place in an angler’s arsenal, baitcasting reels offer more accuracy.
Some newer reels even offer an ergonomic design to minimize arm fatigue during those long days of repetitive casting.
If you’ve caught the baitcasting bug and are searching for a reel, this guide to the top baitcasting reels can help you find what you need. It starts with the basics, but keep reading for some things you should think about before picking up your next reel.
Contents
- Right vs. Left Handed?
- Things To Analyze + Our Favorites:
- What to Consider When Buying a Baitcasting Reel?
Contents
Right vs. Left Handed?
All the baitcasting reels on this list are available in right-hand and left-hand models. Right-hand reels have the handle on the right side while left-hand reels have the handle on the left. Traditionally, baitcasting reels had the handle on the right side. That meant a right-handed angler to cast using the right hand and then switch the rod to the left hand to crank the reel.
Now, even with the left-handed baitcasting reels available, many right-handed anglers still prefer the traditional right-handed models. But, if you’ve fished with spinning reels your entire life, it might feel more natural to use a left-handed baitcasting reel, even if you’re right-handed.
Although deciding whether to buy a right-handed or left-handed baitcasting reel can be confusing, it depends on personal preference and experience. So if you’re not sure which bait-casting reel to buy, go with the model that makes the most sense to you. Also, if you realize that you bought the wrong model, you can always exchange it for the one you want.
Things To Analyze + Our Favorites:
Which is better baitcasting reels or spinning reels? There are plenty of options when you are considering picking up a proper baitcasting reel. There are many different things you should be comparing and thinking through when you compare your options. You already know that by picking a baitcasting reel over a spinner, you are getting more accuracy, as well as the ability to pitch and flip with more precision. A good baitcasting reel must be very easy to tune, which most low-end reels don’t give you the option to do.
A lure can be launched further using a baitcaster because the line flows directly straight off the spool and not in a circular motion as with a spinning reel. Baitcasters take time to master and practice is required to get the feel and dial one into your comfort zone.
Spinners, on the other hand, are known for its smooth operation. Spinners are perfect newbies and inexperienced anglers. Just flip
the bail, put a thumb on the line and cast. If you get a bite, close the bail and turn the handle to reel it back in.
Spinners are especially useful when using lighter baits and live baits as the furthest cast is limited by how hard you want to cast the bait. Line flows off the spool with no drag restriction, allowing light lures to launch far. Learn more here about how to properly put fishing line on your baitcasting reel. They are also nice because there’s no need to worry about a backlash with a spinning reel. We hope this answers the baitcasting reel vs. spinning reel, but it all boils down to preference and fishing type you’re into.
When picking the right baitcaster for your next outing, you should be thinking through line handling, drag, weight and speed of each reel. You’ll also want to figure out what type of fishing expedition you plan on using your reel most with, because that may make a difference depending on how you’ll cast your line. You’ll also want to make sure you are pairing it with the perfect rod, so you have the right combination.
What to Consider When Buying a Baitcasting Reel?
The type of fishing you’ll do will play an essential role in your baitcasting reel selection.
A very popular use for baitcasters is Largemouth bass fishing. It can be said that the low profile baitcasting reel market was a result of Largemouth bass fishing.
Also take note that if you do baitcasting reel in salt water regular maintenance because salt water can corrode or damage steel parts, the pinion gear and bearings may rust. There are baitcasting reels designed for saltwater use, still, whatever type of baitcaster you’re using, cleaning and corrosion prevention should be a priority.
Round and Low Profile Reels
Baitcasting reels began as brakeless round reels that had no braking system. Before, you have to use your thumb as the brake for your spool. Present day round reels are still made today, but it now comes with advanced braking systems. Still, it’s still a basic rule to learn how to use your thumb to stop a spool.
Some of the advantages of round reels include:
- It can hold more line.
- It’s mostly made of metal.
Saltwater, salmon, and anglers often choose round reels because the extra line capacity helps in dealing fish making long runs when being tackled. Plus, the steel and stainless construction can also be an advantage in salty environments.
Bass anglers prefer low profile reels. Below are some of the advantages of low profile reels:
- Lightweight.
- Available in different varieties to fit your needs
- Low profile baitcasting reels are mostly made with graphite
- Durable composite frame shells that help keep weight down.
Below are some of the features to look for when buying baitcasting reels.
Ball Bearings and Gears
Baitcasting reel gears are usually made of brass and some with duralumin which is a lightweight alloy of aluminum, copper and other elements. The distance between gear teeth can also contribute to the smooth operation of the reel.
Shimano has introduced micromodule gears that features short distances between teeth. The technology results in a smooth operation and one fine example is the Shimano Torium Conventional Reel.
A more significant number of bearings in baitcasting reels doesn’t mean its better, quality bearings is what matters. Look for reels that use sealed quality bearings to prevent water from penetrating the smaller ball bearings.
Spool Tension
The spool tension knob is commonly found on either side of the reel where the cranking handle is located. When spinning clockwise, it places tension and tightens the spool. When spinning counter-clockwise, it releases the spool tension.
The spool tension works with the braking system to prevent backlash. A backlash is when the spool spins more quickly than the lure leaving the reel. The result is the spool piling up and getting tangled. Instead of having a smooth operation with the lure, the line stays in the reel and creates a backlash.
Some reels feature a clicker in the spool tension knob. The helps the baitcaster get how much tension is put on the spool. Set your spool tension after tying the lure and ready to cast let the lure drop by clicking on the spool release. Again, the weight of the bait and the spool tension should match to prevent a backlash.
If the lure drops too quickly, add more tension, if it doesn’t fall, there’s too much spool tension.
Weight
Although not as important as the other factors, consider weight if you’re going to fish for long periods. Most low profile baitcasters will range between 142 g to 284 g. There may be some exceptions, but those numbers are the general range for most freshwater and light inshore fishing.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio measures how many times the spool spins or revolves during one turn of the handle.
The gearing works like bicycle gears in principle. This is how gear ratio works – when you turn the handle on a baitcaster, you’re using a large gear. The large gear meshes with a smaller gear that is in line with the spool shaft. When you turn the large handle gear once, the lower gear rotates more than once resulting in lesser torque and smoother cranking power.
Higher gear ratios mean more line is retrieved with fewer crank spinning. On the other hand, lower gear ratios will have more torque but are suitable for reeling bait in slowly.
When you want speed, reduce line slack and bring the line back faster, go for higher gear ratios. If you prefer slow reeling and feel the torque, go for lower gear ratios.
An average gear ratio would be 5.5:1 – this means the pool turns 5.5 times for every one handle turn.
Low gear ratios would be within 3.x to 1 range. Very high gear ratios can reach 8 to 1.
Braking System
Brakes are useful when casting directly into the wind because the spool will spin faster than the lure.
The braking system on your reel will prevent backlashes. Most reels come with a centrifugal or a magnetic braking system. Some reels come with both.
Centrifugal braking systems work by using the spinning of the spool in applying pressure on the raceway. So when the spool accelerates, small blocks move outward and apply pressure on the reel housing interior. Friction is then created which helps prevent the spool from over spinning and result in a backlash.
Most anglers choose centrifugal brakes over magnetic. Centrifugal brakes are usually adjusted removing the reel side plate and four switches to engage or disengage.
Many reports state that is effective at preventing backlash.
Magnetic brakes have improved, and many anglers use them today. Work with magnets on the side plate and the spool. These braking systems use a numbered dial on the side plate to increase or decrease the magnetic force which controls the spool spinning that prevents a backlash.
Switch
The primary purpose of a switch on a baitcaster is to re-engage the reel’s spool smoothly.
Some switches are designed to be engaged throughout the entire time on. Some switch enables you to push down the thumb-bar and release the spool.
Let’s look at our favorites for your hard earned money in a little bit more detail.
1. Abu Garcia BMAX2 Black Max
Abu Garcia BMAX2 Black Max BaitcastReel RH 5BB 6.4:1…
- Made using the highest quality…
- Professional grade fishing…
- Tested for durability and…
- Value-priced Abu Garcia reel…
- Lightweight graphite frame and…
- Reel type: Low profile baitcasting
- Sizes available: One size
- Number of bearings: Five
- Body material: Graphite
- Drag material: Power Disk synthetic
- Braking: Magnetic
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 18 lbs
- Gear material: Brass
- Gear ratio: 6.4:1
- Retrieve rate: 26″ per turn
- Line capacity: 145 yardsds/12 lb mono; 140yards/30 lb braid
- Reel weight: 7.9 oz
- Intended use: Freshwater
The Black Max is a rock-solid baitcasting reel that gives anglers high-end performance at an affordable price. With many features comparable to higher-end baitcasting reels, the Black Max is an excellent buy for those looking for their first durable baitcasting reel. It is great for those in need of an affordable backup or loaner reel, too.
With a one-piece graphite frame and graphite side plates, the Black Max is strong and durable while remaining lightweight. The Power Disk drag system gives you 18 lbs of fish-stopping power. It also feeds out line smoothly when you’ve got a runner on the line. And, with a heavy duty brass Duragear, the reel will stand up to hard-fighting fish for many years.
With only five good quality ball bearings ball bearings, the Black Max has the lowest bearing count of the low-profile baitcasting reels on the list. But, the reel still cranks surprisingly smooth. Also, the Black Max is for freshwater use, but many users report using it in salt water with no issues. Just be sure to rinse the reel thoroughly after each use. If you want to try a baitcasting reel but don’t have a ton of money, the graphite-framed Abu Garcia Black Max is one of the best baitcasting reels for you. See our full review here.
2. KastKing Royale Legend Low Profile
KastKing Royale Legend High Speed Low Profile Baitcasting…
- PERFORMANCE – Low profile…
- UNMATCHED – Precision cut…
- PROVEN – 11 + 1 shielded…
- TOURNAMENT READY – The new…
- DYNAMIC – Two color anodized…
- Reel type: Low profile baitcasting
- Sizes available: One size
- Number of bearings: 12
- Body material: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Drag Material: Carbon fiber discs
- Braking: Magnetic and centrifugal dual brakes
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 12 lbs
- Gear material: Precision cut brass gear
- Gear ratio: 7.0:1
- Retrieve rate: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Line capacity: 165 yards/12 mono
- Reel weight: 7.6 oz
- Intended use: Freshwater and saltwater
With an impressive spec sheet, the KastKing Royal Legend High Speed stands tall among the many entry-level baitcasting reels available. Loaded with 12 bearings, this reel cranks amazingly smooth for the price. And the dual brake system helps anglers of all skill levels fine-tune the reel for backlash-free casting.
The “High Speed” in the Royal Legend’s name comes from the 7.0:1 gear ratio. While not ideal for all scenarios, the high-speed gear ratio is perfect for bass fishing techniques like flipping and pitching. It is especially helpful when you are working a lure for a short distance before quickly reeling it in to make another cast. High gear ratios also come in handy when you need to horse a bass or northern pike away from heavy cover quickly to avoid losing the fish in the weeds.
Thanks to slim, low profile design, the Royal Legend fits nicely in the palm of your hand. The EVA foam grips give you a secure hold on the handle. It works well when fishing in wet, rainy conditions or the heat when your hands are sweaty. And at only 7.6 ounces, the Royal Legend is light enough to keep you casting all day comfortably.
3. Piscifun PF1400 Low Profile
Piscifun Torrent Right Handed 6.3:1 13+1 Shielded Bearings…
- POWERFUL- Advanced, 4-washer,…
- DURABLE – Industrial…
- PERFORMANCE – Low profile…
- UNIQUE – Unique side-plate oil…
- UNPARALLELED – Strong double…
- Reel type: Low profile baitcasting
- Sizes available: One size
- Number of bearings: 14
- Body material: Nylon glass fiber body
- Drag Material: Carbon fiber drag washers
- Braking: Magnetic
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 8.8 lbs
- Gear material: Brass
- Gear ratio: 6.3:1
- Retrieve rate: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Line capacity: 100yds/12lb mono
- Reel weight: 7.3 oz
- Intended use: Freshwater
Thanks to an astounding 14 bearings, the stainless Piscifun PF1400 is one of the smoothest entry-level baitcasting reels money can buy. It has a lightweight, low profile body that fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. It also comes with ergonomically shaped EVA foam handles that give you great grip under all conditions. The magnetic braking system is easy to adjust for casting lures of different sizes.
And the star drag handle makes on-the-fly drag adjustments easy. Piscifun isn’t as well-known as brands like Abu Garcia or Shimano, but that shouldn’t stop you from considering the PF1400 as your next baitcasting reel because it’s one of the best baitcasting reels for the money.
4. KastKing Stealth Carbon Fiber
- Reel type: Low profile baitcasting
- Sizes available: One size
- Number of bearings: 12
- Body material: Carbon frame, aircraft-grade aluminum components
- Drag material: Four carbon fiber discs and hardened aluminum washers
- Braking: Seven magnet dual braking system
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 16.5 lbs
- Gear material: Hardened forged aluminum alloy
- Gear ratio: 7.0:1
- Retrieve rate: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Line capacity: 165yards/12 lb mono
- Reel weight: 5.9 oz
- Intended use: Freshwater and saltwater
Thanks to a durable full carbon fiber frame and aircraft grade aluminum components, the KastKing Stealth Carbon Fiber baitcasting reel weighs only 5.9 ounces and gives excellent corrosion resistance. The 11 shielded stainless steel ball bearings provide the reel an incredibly smooth action. They are also corrosion resistant for use in saltwater. The Stealth uses a unique four pin centrifugal brake system with seven magnets to give anglers complete control over the reel’s casting.
This braking system makes it possible to cast lightweight lures that are challenging to cast with other reels. The 7.0:1 gear ratio puts the Stealth in the “high-speed” class of baitcasting reels along with the KastKing Royal Legend High Speed. Four carbon fiber drag washers packing a full 16.5 lbs of drag force will put the pressure on any fish you hook into. And the star drag knob makes it easy to adjust drag pressure mid-fight.
5. Abu Garcia Revo Fishing Reel
Abu Garcia RVO-3SXHSL Revo Low-Profile Baitcast Fishing…
- Ultra-lightweight design with…
- MagTrax brake system and wide…
- Carbon Matrix drag system…
- D2 Gear Design provides…
- Extended bent cranking handles…
- Reel type: Low Profile Baitcasting Reel
- Sizes available: One size
- Number of bearings: 10 – nine stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing
- Body material: Alloy frame, carbon fiber side plate
- Drag Material: Carbon fiber
- Brake: Magnetic
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 20 lbs
- Gear material: D2 gear system
- Gear ratio: 7.1:1
- Retrieve rate: 29″ per turn
- Line capacity: 145 yards/12 lb mono; 189yds/20lb braid
- Reel weight: 6.7 oz
- Intended use: Freshwater and saltwater
For anglers who have experimented with inexpensive baitcasters and are looking for a serious upgrade, the Abu Garcia RVO3 SXHS is one of the best baitcasting reels for quality and performance. It has Abu Garcia’s signature X2-Craftic alloy frame and a C6 carbon fiber side plate. With shielded stainless steel ball bearings, the RVO3 is highly corrosion resistant and is right at home in saltwater.
An advanced Carbon Matrix drag system packs 20 pounds of drag pressure, giving anglers all they need for muscling walleye or carp out of heavy cover or hooking into boat-pulling redfish in the marsh. And the carbon frame of the RVO3 SXHS has remarkable casting performance thanks to an Infini II spool, MagTrax braking system, and a titanium-coated line guide. So, when you dial it in, the line flies off the spool, helping you reach distances and cranking power on par with even the most advanced spinning reels.
6. Daiwa Tatula Hyper Speed
KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel, Right Handed Fishing…
- BULLET PROOF – All NEW and…
- MORE POWERFUL – You will love…
- SUPER SMOOTH – KastKing Rover…
- VERSATILE – KastKing Rover is…
- FISH INTO THE FUTURE -…
- Reel type: Round baitcasting reel
- Sizes available: 40, 50, 60, 80, 90
- Number of bearings: Seven – Six stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing, sizes 40, 50, 60 or Five – four stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing, sizes 80 and 90
- Body material: Anodized alloy
- Drag Material: Carbon fiber
- Braking: Centrifugal braking
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 11 lbs – size 40 and 20 lbs – size 90
- Gear material: Stainless steel worm gear
- Gear ratio: 5.3:1 in sizes 40, 50, 60) and 3.6:1 in sizes 80 and 90
- Retrieve rate: Not specified by a manufacturer
- Line capacity: 200yds/12lb mono in size 40 and 750yds/16lb mono in size 90
- Reel weight: 11.6 in size 40 and 22.6 in size 90
- Intended use: Freshwater and saltwater
The KastKing Rover RXA is one of the best baitcasting reels for anglers who are after big fish but want old-school style in their fishing gear setup. With five sizes to choose from, there’s a Rover that can handle everything including bank fishing for huge channel cats and trolling deep lakes for trophy-sized walleye.
With an anodized aluminum spool and side plates, precision machined brass gears, and a stainless steel worm gear, the Rover RXA is a super tough reel. It is also ideal for both freshwater and saltwater applications. And the carbon fiber drag disks give you up to 20 pounds of pressure on the largest size reel. Also, thanks to the star drag handle, the drag is easy to adjust.
Other features include over-sized EVA foam grips for comfort and increased grip in wet conditions. It also has a unique easy-access thumb release button and a line out clicker that alerts you when a fish has taken your bait. So if you’re looking to tie into some big fish but don’t want to spend a lot of money on a reel, the KastKing Rover RXA round baitcasting reel will suit you well.
7. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Round Baitcast Fishing Reel
- 4 stainless steel ball…
- Carbon Matrix drag system…
- Compact bent handle and star…
- 6 pin centrifugal brake gives…
- Synchronized level wind system…
- Reel type: Round baitcasting
- Sizes available: 4600, 5500, 6500,
- Number of bearings: Four – Three stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing
- Braking: Six-pin centrifugal brake system
- Drag Material: Carbon fiber
- Body material: Alloy
- Drag type: Star Drag
- Drag strength: 15 lbs
- Gear material: Carbon fiber
- Gear ratio: 5.3:1
- Retrieve rate: 26″ per turn
- Line capacity: 160 yards/12 lb mono, 155 yards/30 lb braid (4600); 240yards/12 lb mono, 235yds/30lb braid (5500); 320 yards/12 lb mono, 310yds/30lb braid (6500)
- Reel weight: 9.2 oz (4600); 9.9 oz (5500); 10.7 oz (6500)
- Intended use: Freshwater and saltwater
Abu Garcia has made Ambassadeur reels since the early 1950s. And since then they’ve become some of the best baitcasting reels of all time. The Ambassadeur C3 is the modern incarnation of the iconic reel. It features some of Abu Garcia’s best technology to create one of the hardest working reels on the market.
The Carbon Matrix Drag System gives you smooth, consistent drag pressure. And the brass Dura Gears hold up to any hard cranking abuse you can throw at it. Available in three sizes, the Ambassadeur C3 targets a wide range of fish species in both freshwater and saltwater. Load it up with either mono or braid, pair it with your favorite baitcasting rod and you’re ready for a productive day on the water.
8. Penn Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel
Coming with a full metal body, side plate, rotor, and a heavy-duty aluminum bail wire, the Penn Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel is an absolutely phenomenal product.
The HT 100 carbon fiber drag system is also fabricated with utmost accuracy, as it offers a powerful drag without sacrificing smoothness. On top of that, the five sealed stainless steel ball bearings and the instant anti-reverse bearing offer fluid cranking without interruptions or weird noises.
Furthermore, the super line spool requires no backing, is braid ready, and has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity. All in all, we really recommend this baitcasting reel for conquering big saltwater game fish.
9. Tempo Apex Spinning Reel W/ Ultralight Premium Magnesium Body
This baitcasting reel features a magnesium frame that is extremely lightweight, stiff, and strong. The aircraft aluminum 7075 main shaft and pinion gear further reduce weight without sacrificing strength. A carbon composite rotor and side plate are also added to reduce weight.
It also features premium carbon drag with carbon fiber washers that can produce up to 39 pounds of drag force. And in case you’re worried about performance, you need not be afraid since the drag itself is sealed, so no dirt or water will ever affect it.
Best of all, the Tempo Apex Spinning Reel comes with a full one-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee, which gives you more than enough time to figure out if it’s the right purchase for your needs.
10. Calamus X2 Baitcasting Reel
What we like about this model is that it comes in a version for left-handed people, and one for right-handed people. Calamus X2 features a Micro-Transition magnetic braking system that controls spool speed and reduces over runs while fishing a wide variety of baits. The recessed braking adjustment dial and 8 magnets allow the angler to set the perfect braking power
How to Use a Baitcasting Reel
Baitcasters are more complicated to use than the traditional spinning gear, but for a more experienced fisher, this spinning reel is actually a good way to cast quicker in a versatile way. Regardless, get ready for a learning curve if you are used to a traditional way. There are tons of moving parts and systems that can give you issues until you get the hang of it, one of the worst being backlash. Learning how to use a baitcasting reel is really relearning a whole new system as you would with learning stick if you have only ever driven it’s much easier rival, the automatic. Baitcasting incorrectly will not help you to be more efficient, but doing it correctly can take you to the next level. Our guide on how to use a baitcasting reel will really help you to avoid misuse and improve your abilities.
The Basic Equipment Needed for Baitcasting:
Baitcaster
Choosing the perfect baitcaster is the most important part of all this, and thankfully that’s what his article as set out to do. When choosing, there are generally two different types of braking systems you can choose from: the magnetic, and the centrifugal.
The magnetic has an adjustable knob on the outside which makes it look easier to maneuver, but this is simply not true. Magnetic baitcasters are actually more likely to have backlashes. Keep that in mind as you purchase a baitcaster.
As for the centrifugal, these baitcasters are similar to the braking system in your car. They are under the sides and have interior pins that adjust the. You can engage or disengage these pins. This system is much easier to use because the levers work the same way many other tools you own work. This is an accessible option for beginners.
Line
The line always depends on the rig setup you choose to use. Many would suggest the braided line for baitcasting.
Rods
Rods are some of the first things you get when fishing, so chances are you already own one because you are looking into a more advanced way to fish. Choosing a rod is a big decision, so be sure to do research on efficiency as well as affordability.
Bait
Bait will depend on a) setup, and b) personal preference. Commonly, bright neon lights are used to attract fish.
The Steps for Use a Baitcasting Reel
First Step: Locate Braking System
The purpose of the braking system is to slow the rotation of the spool when you throw your bait. It is meant to prevent the backlash that can come from the spool spinning at a faster pace than the dispersing line. Centrifugal braking system can be found by removing the side plate of the reel. Magnetic braking systems can be located by adjusting the knob. It is always best to watch a video on exactly where to locate your braking systems, OR by following the instructions as they come.
Second Step: Adjust Braking System
Adjusting the braking system can be done in one of two ways: either by engaging or disengaging. You can engage by pushing the interior levers or disengage by pushing the brake levers. The purpose of disengaging is for longer casts that that could potentially backlash. If you are a beginner at baitcasting, a good tip would be to heavily engage in your braking system. In the beginning, your casts will be shorter if you choose to implement this, but it will teach you control. Once you are able to prevent backlashes by casting shorter, you will be able to listen up the breaks.
Third Step: Adjust Tension Knobs
Tension knobs are on the side that the handle is on. They help at the end of your cast. This knob can be tightened by turning the knob clockwise. If you want to listen to it, turn it counter-clockwise. When you adjust your tension, it should be based on the weight of your bait caster.
Fourth Step: Test Tension
Testing your tension is a vital part of baitcasting. Hold the rod at the tip and disengage the spool release button at the bottom. Continue to adjust the tension until you can allow the bait to fall without backlash.
Fifth Step: Grip Baitcaster
Learning how to grip your baitcaster is similar to learning how to grip the wheel of a car or a gun. It is an important thing to learn early on, and the way you do it makes all the difference. To do this, mold your dominant hand around the rod reel’s rod handle.
Sixth Step: Release Line
Releasing the line is one of the most important parts of fishing. Releasing the proper amount and getting a good cast is just as important. If you are just starting out, it is good to let 8-12 inches of the line hang before casting, then measure the line. The way you do this is by drawing from the tip of the rod to the bait.
Seventh Step: Release Spool and Cast
Releasing the spool and then placing your thumb on it is the proper way to do it, without having it run. But when learning to cast, it is really up to you to do whatever technique is comfortable for you. Keep in mind using a heavy break at first! This also entails making a shorter cast and not casting too hard.
Eighth Step: Practice Casting
The most important step is to practice using your baitcasting reel as much as you can, especially when just starting out. When practicing, be sure to swing with your whole arm, like with a bat, and not with your wrist. Don’t allow experiencing backlashes to discourage you! Remember that with practice, you will begin to see more distance and accuracy. It is always best to try a variety of techniques when casting to find your favorite one. Using baitcasting reels is a great way to fish, especially if you are looking to become more of a pro in the hobby.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST BAITCASTING REEL
Most professional bass anglers use baitcasting reels, and for a good reason. Remember, baitcasting reels may take some time and practice to use. However, once you get it down, you’ll be able to place your lure anywhere you like with pinpoint accuracy.
It’s important to make sure you’ve weighed out the benefits of a baitcaster versus a traditional spinner before choosing to go this route. You want to make sure that you’ve set yourself up for success and understand what’s best for your next fishing excursion. Overall, you can’t go wrong with any of the favorites we’ve walked through the baitcasting reel review here, and any one of them should set you up for success on your next fishing expedition.
My articles appear in Marketing Edge Magazine, on Gizmogrind, and with various Medium publications. But one thing hasn’t changed in all of my life: no matter where I was or what I was doing. I’ve always loved to be outdoors.
A man needs nothing more than a good flannel shirt, a well-worn pair of jeans, and comfortable hiking boots. I don’t go for all the fancy luxury stuff. Suits are uncomfortable and shaving sucks.