Choosing a baitcasting reel for fishing can get overwhelming for beginner anglers. There are so many options currently on the market at various price points. This article will simplify the buying process by breaking it down into three main price points; $100, $150, and $200. Additionally, this article will teach you what to look for before choosing a baitcasting reel. We will discuss retrieval side, weight, gear ratio, and ball bearings. It is critical to know these things so that you can buy the best baitcasting reel for the money.
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Table of Contents:
- Baitcasting Reel Retrieval Side
- Baitcasting Reel Weight
- Gear Ratio
- Ball Bearings
- Best Baitcaster Under $100
- Best Baitcaster Under $150
- Best Baitcaster Under $200
- More Baitcasting Reel Information
Best Baitcasting Reels For The Money [Quick Summary]
- Shimano SLX (Under $100)
- 13 Fishing Inception G2 (Under $150)
- Diawa Tatula (Under $200)
Choosing a Left or Right Hand Retrieve:
Whether or not to buy a left hand or right hand retrieve is an ongoing debate with baitcasting reels. If you are right-handed, some fisherman will choose a right-handed retrieve. They cast with their right hand and switch the rod to their left hand to retrieve. Other right-handed anglers prefer a left handed retrieve where they cast with their right hand and retrieve with their right hand. This prevents you from having to switch hands after the cast. The same applies to left-handed fisherman. Experiment and choose whatever feels more comfortable to you.
Considering Baitcasting Reel Weight:
The weight of a baitcasting reel is often overlooked by fisherman but can make or break your setup. It is not necessarily that lighter is always better, but rather the baitcasting reel that you choose needs to be balanced with your specific rod. To test this, attach the reel to your rod and balance it with your finger. If your finger is located just in front of the reel stem, your setup is balanced correctly (see picture below). Generally, most reels in the 7 to 8.5 ounce range will work just fine.
Choosing Baitcaster Gear Ratio:
Another difference that you will notice amongst baitcasting reels is their gear ratio. Typically, it will say two numbers such as 6:1. All this means is that every time you turn the handle one time around, the spool of the reel turns six times. Generally, you will want a slower gear ratio when using lures that require a steady retrieve such as crankbaits. Anglers opt for a faster gear ratio for more bottom contact jigging applications. We recommend choosing a baitcasting reel between 6:1 and 8:1. A good all around ratio is 7:1. Make sure to choose the correct gear ratio for the specific technique you plan on using.
Considering Ball Bearings:
When I say ball bearings are important, what I am really saying is that the reel needs to be smooth. More ball bearings generally lead to a smoother reel since each ball bearing reduces friction. In all honesty though, some reels may have less ball bearings than others but operate much smoother. This all depends on the quality of ball bearings being used. Poorly made bearings can wear out quickly and reduce reel performance. To learn more about ball bearings, check out this article
Best Baitcasting Reel For The Money Under $100
The Shimano SLX is a popular baitcasting reel designed for anglers who want reliable performance at an affordable price. This reel offers several features typically found in higher-end models. Here are some key details about the Shimano SLX baitcasting reel:
- Gear Ratio: The Shimano SLX is available in different gear ratios to cover most fishing techniques including a 6.3:1, 7.2:1, and 8.2:1.
- Construction: The SLX reel features a compact, low-profile design. It is constructed with a durable and lightweight graphite frame, which helps reduce the overall weight of the reel. Most models are around 7 ounces.
- Bearings: The SLX typically has a smooth ball bearing system, with the number of bearings varying depending on the specific model.
- Braking System: The Shimano SLX utilizes Shimano’s SVS Infinity braking system, which helps control the spool’s rotation and prevent backlash. It offers easy adjustment for different lure weights.
- Line Capacity: The reel’s spool has a line capacity that can accommodate various fishing lines, usually ranging from around 10 to 14 pounds for monofilament lines.
- Handle: The SLX typically features an ergonomic handle design, providing a comfortable grip and enhanced control.
- Price Range: The Shimano SLX falls within the mid-range price category, making it a popular choice for anglers seeking a balance between performance and affordability.
Best Baitcasting Reel For The Money Under $150
The 13 Fishing Inception G2 is a baitcasting reel known for its smooth performance and innovative features. Here are some key details about the 13 Fishing Inception G2 baitcasting reel:
- Gear Ratio: The Inception G2 reel is available in different gear ratios, including 6.6:1, 7.3:1, and 8.1:1. The gear ratio determines how many times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle.
- Construction: The Inception G2 features a lightweight, low-profile design, typically made with a durable graphite frame. This construction helps reduce fatigue and enhances sensitivity while fishing.
- Bearings: The reel is equipped with a smooth ball bearing system, with the number of bearings varying depending on the specific model. The bearings contribute to the overall smoothness of the reel’s operation.
- Braking System: 13 Fishing incorporates their proprietary “Ocean Armor 2” corrosion protection on the Inception G2, which helps protect the reel from saltwater damage. It also features a dual-braking system, combining a centrifugal and magnetic brake, to provide precise and adjustable casting control.
- Line Capacity: The reel’s spool has a line capacity that can accommodate different fishing lines, typically ranging from around 12 to 17 pounds for monofilament lines.
- Handle: The Inception G2 usually has a comfortable and ergonomic handle design, offering a secure grip and improved control during casting and retrieval.
- Price Range: The 13 Fishing Inception G2 falls within the mid-range to upper mid-range price category, offering anglers a balance of performance and value.
Best Baitcasting Reel For The Money Under $200
The Daiwa Tatula is a popular series of baitcasting reels known for their performance, durability, and features designed for professional anglers. Here are some key details about the Daiwa Tatula baitcasting reel:
- Gear Ratio: The Tatula reel series offers a range of gear ratios to suit different fishing techniques and preferences. Common gear ratios include 6.3:1, 7.3:1, and 8.1:1. The gear ratio determines how many times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle.
- Construction: The Tatula reel features a durable and lightweight construction. It often incorporates an aluminum frame, which provides strength and stability while reducing overall weight.
- Bearings: The Tatula reel series typically utilizes a high-quality ball bearing system for smooth operation. The number of bearings can vary across different models, with some featuring additional corrosion-resistant bearings.
- Braking System: Daiwa incorporates their Magforce Z cast control braking system in the Tatula reels. This system provides excellent casting control by utilizing magnetic brakes to reduce spool overrun and backlash.
- Line Capacity: The Tatula reel’s spool has a line capacity suitable for various fishing lines, typically ranging from around 12 to 17 pounds for monofilament lines.
- Handle: The Tatula reels often feature an ergonomic handle design, offering a comfortable grip and improved control during casting and retrieval. Some models may include a paddle or a power handle for increased cranking power.
- Price Range: The Daiwa Tatula baitcasting reels fall within the mid-range to upper mid-range price category, offering anglers high-quality performance and features.
More Information:
I hope you enjoyed this article about the Best Baitcasting Reels For The Money
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