The baitcast reel is a staple of bass fishing, and having multiple reels with different gear ratios and other features will allow you to fish all the most popular bass fishing techniques. As reels have become more specialized over the years, deciding which reel to buy has become even more complicated. Even with all the hyper-technical reels, thankfully, some options are highly versatile and work for many different techniques.
Here's a quick rundown of what to look for when buying your next reel, regardless of your needs or budget.
Gear Ratios
One of the most important first steps in deciding which reel to use is figuring out what you plan to do with it. The gear ratio, the reel speed, is the first to look at. The top reel brands have several ratios available; most reels will come in at least three speeds. They vary slightly by brand, but generally, they will be in three ranges.
- 6.1:1-7.1:1 – Crankbaits, ChatterBaits, swimbaits, and other moving baits.
- 7.1:1-7.9:1 – General purpose fishing. Reels at this speed can do just about everything.
- 8.0:1 and faster – Good for baits that you want to move fast, like topwater baits. They are also helpful for the flipping and pitching techniques.
Slower reels generally have speeds in the 6.1:1 range, but there are exceptions with even slower speeds. These reels work wonders for baits like crankbaits. In today's world, faster reels have become the norm, and something around 7.1:1 is now considered standard and can be effective with most all bass fishing techniques.
Reels have also gotten much faster over the years, and a fast reel is now somewhere about 8.1:1 or even higher for some brands. These speedy retrieves are good for baits that you move quickly, such as topwaters, but they also work well for techniques like flipping and pitching. After making a presentation with a lure, you can quickly get the bait back in and make another pitch, flip, or cast. These reels work well for these techniques, but there are better choices for baits like crankbaits and swimbaits, where a slower speed can help keep your bait moving at an average pace.
Picking The Right Reel
Now that you understand the reel speeds, it's time to pick your reel. One of the biggest things to consider is your budget. Like everything in fishing, you get what you pay for, and the more you spend, the longer they will last, and you can expect better performance in terms of casting distance and smoothness during the retrieve.
First level: Abu Garcia
One of the best bang for your buck at around $100 is a pair of reels from Abu Garcia. They make much more expensive reels with great technologies, but the Abu Garcia Max Pro ($89.99) and Revo X ($119.99) are solid reels with many features. Both have undergone several iterations over the years and continue to improve
These are both workhorse reels that will get the job done. What's nice about all reels in this price range is that when they introduce new technology for their high-priced ones, they slowly bring it down to the lower-end models. These reels are likely as good as reels that sold for twice as much just a few years ago.
Mid-range: Shimano Curado and Daiwa Tatula
The Curado has been a staple for bass anglers for years, and they continue to add new versions. The Shimano M is the latest model, having a similar look but better casting distance than the Curado K, which has been out for several years.
No matter which variation you choose, with different sizes available, you will get a solid reel built to last. The retail price is just under $200, but you can find better deals on older models or used reels if you look around. They are well-built and have some great features that bass anglers love.
Like the Curado, the Daiwa Tatula family of reels is well-known for quality, durability, and affordable price. They are typically around $200 but well-built and last for years. They have a unique T-Wing line system that controls your line during the cast, resulting in better casting distance.
High-end: Lew's HyperMag and Shimano Bantam MGL
If you want to spend over $300, you are buying an excellent reel. Some cost much more, but this is still a high-end price point. Two of the best are the Lew's HyperMag and Shimano Bantam MGL.
The HyperMag is one of the favorites for Lew's sponsored pros, who could fish any reel that the company makes. Recently redesigned, the new version weighs in at just 5.2 ounces. It's light but robust and buttery smooth.
The Shimano Bantam MGL is a unique reel in that it's built from a one-piece aluminum frame instead of multiple parts being screwed together like most reels on the market. While it's a little heavier than most modern reels (7.6 ounces), it feels solid. It also has excellent casting distance and premium gearing to justify the $359.99 price tag.
Specialty reel: Team Lew's Pro SP
As a bonus, here's another reel to consider if you like to skip under docks. It is made with a shallower spool. The Lew's Team Lew's SP was made to skip without backlashes. It's a solid reel all around, but especially good for making those casts way up under docks or overhanging trees. It will set you back around $200, but the shallow spool and braking system must be seen in action to appreciate it.
Like all things in bass fishing, you can spend as much as you want when buying a new baitcasting reel. All major brands produce great products nowadays; finding the right one for your needs and budget is the first thing to consider. The above reels are all great choices and will suit you well this season.
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