Best Baitcasting Reels
Baitcasting reels are an important tool for anglers who fish with heavier lines and lures—even those that don’t bass fish. Looking for your next baitcaster? Our fishing experts have chosen the best baitcast reels based on target species, ease-of-use, and more so you can find the right reel for your baitcasting setup!
Best Baitcaster for Beginners: Shimano SLX
The Shimano SLX Baitcaster Reel is a great option for anglers looking for their first baitcaster. The SLX features a Hagane body designed to provide reliable strength without tilting or warping and can be used with a variety of casting techniques. An S3D spool creates a smooth cast and retrieve perfect for anglers just getting used to the feel of a baitcaster. Plus, the Shimano SLX has a Variable Brake Adjustment System, or VBS, that makes for easy tuning to eliminate backlashes and improve cast control. Thanks to its versatility and adjustability, the Shimano SLX Baitcaster Reel is our experts’ best baitcaster for beginners.
Best Value Baitcasting Reel: Abu Garcia MAX® X
Anglers looking for a solid baitcasting reel at a great price can’t go wrong with the Abu Garcia MAX® X. This feature-packed reel is designed for smooth casting and a durable design. The Power Disk™ drag, MagTrax™ brake, and Duragear™ gear system give you plenty of line control options, and the low-profile design and recessed reel foot provide increased comfort. Plus, the MAX® X has a 4+1 bearing system for smooth casts and retrieval. The Abu Garcia MAX® X is one of the most feature-loaded reels at its price point, making it one of the best values among baitcast reels.
Best Multi-Purpose Baitcasting Reel: Abu Garcia Revo SX
The Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Reel is one of the best options for anglers after a multi-purpose reel that can be used for a variety of casting applications. The Revo SX has a Carbon Matrix Drag System™ and 10 ball bearings for extreme smoothness. The reel is also built tough and features an Infini™ brake system that can be adjusted to handle any fishing situation. The Carbon Matrix Drag has a high max setting for even more toughness, plus an Infini II™ spool built to handle extreme loads and extended casting. From finessed casts to fights with aggressive fish, the Abu Garcia Revo SX is a great choice for anglers who want a reliable reel that can do it all.
Best Baitcasting Reel for Bass: Daiwa Tatula SV
The Daiwa Tatula SV Baitcaster Reel is lightweight yet offers controlled casts, making it one of the top choices for bass anglers. The Tatula SV baitcaster is available in three different gear ratios, giving every bass angler an option whether they prefer finesse fishing, cranking, or flipping. A Daiwa Zero Adjust spool allows anglers to finely tune the spool tension. Paired with Airbrake technology, this spool design minimizes backlash for extreme castability with unmatched control. Plus, the low-profile design and soft-touch knobs make for a comfortable baitcasting reel. Thanks to its rigidity, smoothness, and accurate casting control, the Daiwa Tatula SV Baitcaster Reel is our experts’ pick for the best bass baitcasting reel.
Best Baitcasting Reel for Muskie: Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast
The Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast lives up to its name and is a great choice for muskie anglers. The Revo Toro Beast features Duragear™ technology that gives anglers incredible fighting power. A high line capacity gives you the ability to create longer casts and cover more water. An extended bent handle offers even more cranking power, while a Power Stack Carbon Matrix Drag System™ creates extreme drag pressure with unparalleled smoothness to handle fights with muskie. Plus, the low-profile design ensures all-day fishing comfort so you can spend more time on the water. If you’re looking for the best baitcasting reel for muskie, the Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast will give you the strength and line capacity you’re after.
The best baitcasters available deliver a lightweight, low-profile design with strong, reliable performance. Whether you’re already an avid bass angler or want to try your hand at baitcasting, SCHEELS offers a great selection of quality baitcast reels to match any angler’s preference, plus casting rods to match your new reel. If you want more help selecting the best baitcast reel for your setup, stop by your local SCHEELS and talk to one of our fishing experts!