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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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!