Learn what to look for in a Baitcasting Reel!
Baitcasting Reels are known for more Power, Longer Casts, and Better Control over the line and lure.
There are a few things to consider when trying to decide what Baitcasting Reel is right for you.
REELS TYPES:
Round
- Heavier - Usually Aluminum and Corrosion Resistant for heavy Saltwater fishing.
- Larger Spools - Hold more Line and use Heavier Line.
- Good for large running fish - Like Salmon and Pike!
Low Profile/Teardrop
- Lighter - Usually contains Mix of Graphite and Aluminum
- Ergonomic Design - Means wrist action is easier.
- Good for Freshwater - A great choice for Bass!
DRAG SYSTEMS:
Star Drag
- Adjusted from the Side between the Reel and Handle
- Better Cast and Easier to use for beginners.
- Great for jigging and Inshore fish under 40 lb
Lever Drag
- Adjusted from the Top of the Reel/Handle
- More Precise control over Drag setting with the ability to preset a Drag Maximum.
- Good for trolling and Large Offshore fish over 40 lb
TIP: Loosen the Star Drag when storing the Reel to increase longevity.
GEAR RATIO:
Fast- 7:1 and Higher
- For Faster Fish- “Pitch & Reel” Style
- Live Small Bait- Like Worms and Grubs
Medium- Around 6:1
- Most Versatile Speed
- Artificial Lures- Like Jerkbaits and Spinners
Slow- 5:1 and Lower
- For Deep Fish- Long Casts and Slow Reeling with control.
- Large Live Bait- Including Crankbaits and Deep Divers
TIP: It is hard to cast lightweight Lures with Baitcasting Reels. Use artificial lures at least 0.25 lb or Heavier!
BREAKING SYSTEMS:
Centrifugal - Uses Friction to Control the Line with pins inside the Reel Sideplate
- Easier to “Set and Forget” with Fewer Adjustments.
Magnetic - Uses Magnets to Control the Spool
- Adjustments are External for quick changes during the cast.
TIP: A Dual Brake System is great for beginners just learning how to use a Baitcasting Reel!
SPOOL MATERIAL:
- Aluminum- Heavier
- Graphite- Lighter but Less Durable
TIP: To AVOID BACKLASH control the speed of the spool with your thumb and do not release too early.
HANDLE:
- Handles on Baitcasting Reels are not Interchangeable!
- Look for Soft Rubber Knobs
- Choose Oversized Handles
TIP: To REVERSE backlashes reel the handle while pressing your thumb on the spool.
BALL BEARINGS:
- Quality over Quantity- More Bearings usually means smoother performance BUT the quality of the Bearing material is most important!
- Look for Shielded or Sealed Ball Bearings
LINES & LEADERS: No line twist with Baitcasting Reels since the fishing line feeds directly into the spool!
- Use 10-lb Line or Heavier
- Fluorocarbon- For Clear water conditions
- Monofilament- Versatile for all conditions
- Braided- For Thick Weeds or Vegetation- Set your Drag a little lighter!
TIP: Set the Tension Control Knob located by the drag and handle. So that any lure you use will fall lightly during free spool.
