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How To Choose Baitcasting Reel – A Complete Guide for Your Needs!

how to choose baitcasting reel
Written by Simon Michel
Last Update: July 24, 2023

Recreational fishing is full of excitement and pleasure. Baitcasting fishing reels add further amusement to the fishing adventure. The reels allow anglers casting baits or lures for example, jigs, crankbaits, spinner baits with more precision and accuracy. People often abandon their current fishing reel to use a Baitcasting Reel because the reel provides more power to anglers to throw cast at a greater distance and to catch big game.

Using Baitcasting reels for the first time is an exciting time for anglers. But anglers plunge into confusion when it comes to choosing the best baitcasting reel. Below we have listed a few criteria that you should take into consideration in your quest to find the best baitcasting reel.

How to Choose Baitcasting Reel

Gear ratio

Speed of your lure retrieve depends on the gear ratio. Gear ratio is the number of times spool goes through when the handle is rotated. Gear ratio ranges from 5:1 to 7:1. The ratio is mentioned on the body most of the time. With a ratio of 5:1, spool turns five times. If you require faster retrieve, choose the higher range ratio. Your choice also depends on the type of lure you will use.

baitcasting gear ratio

Spool

Spool size relies on what type of fishing you would go for. A deep spool is suitable for fishing larger fish as it needs heavier line and more space on the spool. On the other hand, bass fishing requires lighter line and smaller spool.

baitcasting reel Spool

Profile

Baitcasters have two types of body designs: Low and Round profile. Low ones are good for great control and comfort while round is capable for large fish fishing as it is designed for fishing on heavier line.

low profile baitcasting reel

Brake

Brakes help you manage speed and enjoy ease. There are two types of brake systems: Magnetic and Centrifugal system. Magnetics are inexpensive and convenient for beginners. But, it creates an issue in adjustment. On the contrary, Centrifugal being a manual system allow you to adjust easily based on your preference.

baitcasting reel brake

Material

The most common two materials used for the construction of baitcasters are high-grade aluminum and graphite. Although both are good, graphite is comparatively lighter. You can choose either of them.

baitcasting reel material

Brand

The brand you are choosing is always a crucial factor in your fishing success. We have mentioned a few famous brands to save some of your time identifying them.

  • Shimano Chronarch MGL 150
  • Shimano Curado 200IHG
  • Shimano Curado 200 HG K
  • Lew’s Tournament Pro G
  • Abu Garcia Revo STX and SX
  • Abu Garcia BMAX3 Black Max
  • 13 Fishing Concept A
  • Lew’s Pro Magnesium Speed Spool
  • Daiwa Tatula CT Type-R
  • Shimano Citica I
  • Ardent Apex Elite
  • KastKing Assassin

baitcasting reel Brand

Now that you have gone through all the factors mentioned above, we hope you would have no problem further in choosing the best baitcasting reel. Do not wait anymore, buy one and bait the hook!

About the author

Simon Michel

The plight of life sometimes takes you to extremes of nature and guess what, you learn the best lessons in your most difficult times. As a keen sea explorer with several years spent in yachts business, I had damn busy schedules throughout 13 years of my career. I used to free my mind from my mundane days in the sea with extreme fishing expeditions when this became not just a fun activity, but a life saver. You could say, I employed most types of fishing techniques but nothing felt better than fly fishing. That drew my whole attention for a good number of reasons. I mean, it’s an amazing feeling when you are in a light mood with buddies munching snacks and casting the fishing road. I look forward to making the most of my leisure time with this fantastic sport.

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