Getting a strong baitcasting reel to handle the fish you’re reeling in is absolutely crucial to your fishing results. If you’ve been fishing, and are looking to improve your performance, then some of the best baitcasting reels (also known as baitcasters) can be a great option in comparison to a spinning reel.
I personally grew up using baitcasting reels when saltwater fishing and they have proven to be quite simple to use. The pull gives a nice bit of feedback when reeling fish in. They also typically have a higher gear ratio, which leads to faster retrieval.
Here’s a quick list of our top picks for the best baitcasting reels for fresh and saltwater:
Who Needs To Use Baitcasting Reels?
You can use baitcasting reels, or “baitcasters” for more control and precision with each cast. You can also use them to get a faster retrieval on your fishing line. They are a little more advanced to use in comparison to spinning reels.
Even if you’re not the best angler, learning how to use a baitcasting reel is actually quite easy to master with a little practice. As recommended by (bass pro) for choosing a baitcasting reel.
How Do Baitcasting Reels Work?
Baitcasting reels help an angler perform more advanced fishing techniques and use a heavier line. If you’re trying to step up your collection, a baitcasting reel is a nice addition to your arsenal.
How Do I Choose Baitcasting Reels?
Before you buy your baitcasting reel you should look at the gear ratios included with the reel. Checking the ratio is particularly important depending upon the feel you want. The higher the number, the more line that can be retrieved with the same amount of effort.
Use a baitcasting reel to increase your retrieval speed that’s strong, and controlled. If the speed is too fast, you can also use the braking system to eliminate backlash.
If you use other reels you should look for a baitcasting reel that offers the ability to use more techniques. Overall, many of the fishing reels are based upon personal preference.
Here’s a few things to look for when choosing baitcasting reels:
- Check the gear ratio.
- Use a baitcasting reel that’s lightweight.
- Consider the braking system.
What Is The Best Baitcasting Reel?
We’ve looked at a range of baitcasting reels and selected four that are suitable for anglers. The main points we looked at were quality, price, and gear ratios per reel. We’ve reviewed four baitcasting reels and highlighted some pros and cons for each product.
Piscifun
Carbon Fiber Reel
This baitcasting reel made by Piscifun is made with carbon fiber giving it a very lightweight, yet durable structure. The baitcasting reel is available in both left and right hand and is suitable for both kinds of anglers. The reel gives you 17LB of carbon fiber drag and a 7.0:1 gear ratio.
People who have purchased this baitcasting reel like the smooth construction and were impressed by the level of quality. Customers said the baitcasting reel is easy to use and it satisfies their fishing needs.
Some customers who used this baitcasting reel said that is also quite comfortable to use even in comparison to the ultra high end reels, and is an insane value for the money.
PROS
- Dual brake system.
- Carbon fiber build.
- CheckHollow spool.
CONS
- Handle isn’t the best
Piscifun
Graphite Reel
The Piscifun Torrent baitcasting reel is made from a graphite composite body. The reel bearings are constructed from stainless steel bearings and there’s a reinforced brass gear.
A number of people who purchased this baitcasting reel said that their Torrent was sleek and easy to use. Customers also said that the baitcasting reel is reasonably priced in comparison to others available on the market.
Customers who used this baitcasting reel said that their Torrent had only a few backlashes after hundreds of casts. Many were quite pleased, other than a few bearings being dry upon opening.
PROS
- Brass gear.
- Carbon fiber drag.
- CheckStainless steel bearing.
CONS
- Backlashes sometimes.
Exbert
Aluminium Reel
This baitcasting reel made by Exbert is made with Aluminium construct and contains a standard 6.3:1 gear ratio. This is the most commonly used ratio for its pull and smooth usage.
Customers who purchased this baitcasting reel said that it swivels with perfection and it doesn’t have a challenge loading fishing line into the spool.
Customers who used this baitcasting reel said it also comes with a little carrying case for the reel as a nice touch. The reel overall has a durable and strong feel based on what customers reported.
PROS
- 12 ball bearings.
- Smooth swivel.
- Includes small bag.
CONS
- Non-padded handles.
- Standard frame.
10+1BB
Plastic Reel
The 10+1BB baitcasting reel is made from a polymer plastic body. The reel is the most base-line with its 10 ball bearing system. The fishing reel also contains plastic handles.
Customers who purchased this baitcasting reel were impressed by the quality and many even purchased two for their fishing collections.
Some customers said that the braking system isn’t the best system and has some flaws when turning the gears and casting.
PROS
- Reasonably priced.
- Comfortable handle.
CONS
- Standard feel.
- Plastic frame.
- 10 bearings.
Our Choice
All the baitcasting reels we’ve reviewed are suitable for anglers and they’re all easy to use. The baitcasting reels cover a range of prices and they all deliver adequate amounts of power to your fishing.
After looking at all the products the best baitcasting reel is the Piscifun Torrent Carbon Fiber Reel.
This reasonably priced baitcasting reel feels good and easy to cast your line due to its hollow spool. We were also impressed with the comparability to others in the ultra-high-end market.