FS Digest

Currently I use a Pflueger President Xt on a medium light 6'4

I'm looking to move on from my reel, and was looking for some suggestions on what I should use. Usually throw hard plastic glide baits or weighted rigged soft plastics

--
by Puzzleheaded_Disk700

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

I have a world of trust in Shimano reels. Just Sayin....RJS

Ron620DVS Loc: Guntersville Alabama

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Best Baitcasting Reels for 2021;



Baitcasters are for very important for anglers who want the extra control that they cannot get with a spinning reel.

Good baitcasters can give you a lot more control and you can cast your lure exactly where it needs to go.

If you ever watch the professional fishing tournaments, the only type of reel you mostly see is a baitcaster.

In this article, I want to explore and find the best baitcasting reel for beginners and professionals.

Our current ratings for the best baitcasting reels are:



Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile;

KastKing Royale Legend

Shimano Curado

Daiwa Tatula Reels

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX

Piscifun Torrent

Shimano Citica


#1 – Abu Garcia Revo SX
Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel;

Best Overall;


Being called one of the most popular baitcasters year after year, the Revo SX has shown to impress myself with its durability and ultimate control while fishing.

I have reeled in so many bass with this fishing reel. Combined with the sturdy Vendetta rod, this combo can be sick!

Buy both the rod and reel and you will have a nice setup for years to come.

You are getting a very good combo for the money. This rod and reel is for both beginners and more advanced fisherman.

They are both super lightweight with the alloy and carbon reel coming in at only 6.6 oz.

It has 10 bearings with a 7.1:1 gear ratio and comes in both a right and left hand model.

There are multiple generations of these reel and I’m amazed how they continue to reduce the weight each year.

Check out our full review of the Revo SX.

Pros;

Super lightweight at 6.6 oz.

Right and left hand models.

Very smooth cast.

Easy to use for rookies.


Cons;

Pricier than some brands, but definitely worth it.

Check Current Price;


#2 – KastKing Royale Legend;


KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels, New Low Profile Design Fishing Reel, Magnet Braking System, 17.6 Lbs Carbon Fiber Drag, 5+1 Shielded Stainless Steel Bearings.


Best For Beginners;


The 7.0:1 gear ratio makes the KastKing a super smooth and efficient baitcaster.

A little bit heavier than the Abu Garcia Revo SX, but you can’t tell the difference at 7.5 oz.

It is a much cheaper reel than others and you can definitely feel that it’s not made as well as others.

Plan on this one not lasting as long as other reels that are more durable.

This reel has 11+1 ball bearings and super smooth reel for pitching, flipping and more.

State of the art dual brakes make this baitcaster ready to go fishing right out of the box.

The price point makes this a good purchase.

It’s an affordable reel if you are wanting to get into baitcasting like the professionals.

Definitely a good reel to get for beginners before they move to a more durable reel.

Learn more in our full review of the KastKing Royale Legend.

Pros;

Fairly lightweight at 7.5 oz.

Multiple color options.

Smooth cast.

Great for beginners.


Cons;


Not as durable as some reels.

Feels cheaply made.

Check Current Price.



#3 – Shimano Curado;


Shimano Curado 201 K Lefthand Baitcast Fishing Reel, CU201K;

Best For Left-Handers;


Along with the Abu Garcia reels, the Shimano Curado has been producing reels for years starting with the 100 and 200 back in 1992 and has withstood the test of time.

With a 7.2:1 high gear ratio and 5 S ARB bearings, this thing is as smooth as it can get.

The ball bearings are corrosive resistant, so you will never have to worry about replacing them.

Coming in at a lightweight 7.6 ounces, this thing is super light.

Don’t let that fool you though, it can cast like nobody’s business, even in the highest of winds!

All these features combined allows you to control this baitcaster on every aspect, minimizing the risk for a backlash.

It also comes in the LH version for all you left handed baitcaster folks.

Check out our full review of the Abu Garcia Shimano Curado.

Pros;

Lightweight at 7.6 oz.

Right and left handed options.

Smooth cast in high wind.

30 inch crank.


Cons;


More expensive than most reels.


Check Current Price.


#4 – Daiwa Tatula Baitcaster;


Daiwa Tatula 100 TWS Baitcasting Reel;


This is our first Daiwa baitcaster on the list and it’s a good one too.

The Tatula comes in multiple gear ratios from 5.4:1 with the highest at 8.1:1 giving it a super smooth cast and reel.

This reel is very popular and used by professional fisherman all over.

It has a max drag of 13.2 lbs and a 8 + 1 ball bearing system for ultra smooth casting just like butter.

The Tatula gives you maximum control to cast exactly where you need it.

The T-Wing System casting has given this reel a leading edge over others in its class.

The 90 mm cutout handles reduce the weight on this reel making it very light.

If you don’t buy the Revo or Curado, then I suggest the Tatula.

They are all three great reels and you can’t go wrong with either.

Pair this with the Tatula casting rod and you have a very nice baitcasting setup.

Check out our full review of the Daiwa Tatula.


Pros;


Lightweight.

9 Ball bearings.

Buttery smooth.

TWS casting system.


Cons


Fairly expensive.

Check Current Price.


#5 – Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX;


Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX Baitcast Fishing Reel;

Best Round Reel.


I wanted to include at least one round baitcasting reel on the list and of course I chose the Abu Garcia.

Can you tell I’m an Abu Garcia fan?

This round baitcaster comes in multiple models: 5500 and 6600.

The differences are yardage and a 14 lb and 17 lb drag.

Both models have a 5.3:1 gear ratio and 3 + 1 stainless steel ball bearings, giving this round reel one of the smoothest in its class.

It also comes in both a left and right hand model.

It is packed with performance with a very good price point.

It is a bit heavier, but it also is a larger round reel and weighs 11.3oz.

It is great for any type of fishing, but most use it as a catfish baitcasting reel.

You can’t go wrong with this reel.

Learn more in our Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX review.


Pros;


Great for catfish fishing.

4 Ball bearings,

Smooth round baitcaster.

Great price.


Cons;


Users report issues with drag;

Check Current Price.


#6 – Piscifun Torrent;


Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel 5.3:1 Right Handed Bass Fishing Reel Low Profile Baitcaster;

Reliable Budget Pick.


This is one of those brands of reels that you don’t hear much about but continues to have solid ratings.

The high gear ratio of 7.1:1 is very enticing at the low entry price point for this reel.

It has a high grade carbon drag system making it super lightweight and durable.

The corrosion resistant ball bearings give this 5+1 system a good reason to give this reel a chance.

It should be able to handle the water and last for years without replacing.

A little bit heavier than most but not by much, its 8 oz, so you probably can not tell much difference.

The 4.33 inch extended crank makes this sleek design stand out even more and gives you the ability to handle the load of a bigger fish easily.

This reel sounds very promising and I would like to get my hands on one to try out.

You can learn even more in our full Piscifun Torrent review.


Pros;


Excellent value.

Corrosion resistant system.

Smooth casts.

Large handle.


Cons;


Some users report report backlash.

Check Current Price.


#7 – Shimano Citica;


SHIMANO Citica;


To finish off this list, we’re going to go with another popular reel called the Shimano Citica.

This reel has been in production for years and has withstood the test of time.

With a 7.2:1 high gear ratio and only 7.4 ounces, this is a really I would really like to recommend.

It has a very nice line crank of 30 inches and 5 + 1 bearings.

It is also available in 6.3:1 as well as right and left hand models.

The price point is a bit higher, but also worth it.

Check out our full SHIMANO Citica Reel review.


Pros;


Lightweight at 7.4 ounces.

Right and left hand models.


30 inch crank.

Long history.


Cons;


Higher price point.

Check Current Price.




Please click on link for additional information, Thaamk You.


https://masteroftheoutdoors.com/best-baitcasting-reel/



Ron620DVS🎣🐠🐟🐸🦞


🦞

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Don Fischer

Something about these "best of" list's. Seldom see much in the way of reels under $100 on them! I have never paid that much for a reel and have three ABU's and I love them but there are other's made just as well! Hard to believe isn't it? My most expensive ABU was my 6500 but then I've had it a long time too!. Actually have had most my level winds a long time. I switch off on rod and reels all the time and as many as I have, not much by a lot of standards, I'm never gonna wear one out! Better than these best of articles I think would be articles looking at specific reels. What does someone really think of some lesser cost reel? My ABU's are all over 20 yrs old and still work fine but I have enough reels that these days I use them once every couple weeks about just to give them their turn! I ain't gonna wear out much of any reel! A reel I got on sale that surprised me is my Daiwa Millionaire. Gave something like $30 for it at a going out of business sale, wish I'd have bought every one they had but I'd never read much about them and just figured for the price, I'd try one. Should have bought them all! Have a Kastking Rover 40 and the only reason I have it is it was about $45 at the time and I figured that wasn't gonna break the bank. Only reason I ever even heard of it was some guy on an internet site was bashing it and I could not believe anything could be that bad, it's no where near that bad! I bet you already know this but the best reel just depends on who your talking to! Best for the money is to me a phony description meaning you can do a lot better but they never tell you what they don't like about the "for the money" reel!

Decide what you want, low profile or round and then go look at as many as you can find and handle them a bit. Or if you see one on the internet that appeals to you and the price suits you, try it! The only reason I have my Kastking or my Millionaire is because for the money(!) I decided to give them a try. I'd buy another of each in a heart beat if I wasn't so reel poor!

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Don, Don, Don: If you would use paragraphs when you post it would make reading your ideas much easier! Just Sayin....RJS

vic1964 Loc: massachusetts

i use quantum baitcasters, and falcon low rider rods, the reel is easy to set up and once it is set you won,t have to worry about "backlash". i typically use triline xcast line 17# test

Burleimi Loc: Baton Rouge/Grand Isle, La

If cost is no concern, my son got me a Shimano Metanium a couple of years ago. I started with the old ambassador 5000 over 50 yrs ago and tried just about all kinds, and this reel is by far the smoothest, farthest casting reel I’ve ever used.

Ben Bragg Loc: Dayton Ohio

[quote=FS Digest]Currently I use a Pflueger President Xt on a medium light 6'4

I'm looking to move on from my reel, and was looking for some suggestions on what I should use. Usually throw hard plastic glide baits or weighted rigged soft plastics

I have a lot of high end Shimano reels.
In fact all my reels are Shimano .
Can honestly say the Curado K is a workhorse . It’s actually my lowest grade baitcaster but it’s a fantastic solid choice
Not as light or smooth as some of my higher end models but I can use this reel for darned near anything. And have 100% confidence every time I pick it up.

Don Fischer

I suspect I'm not as well educated as you!

Chuck56 Loc: Texas

Don’t know where you are from, or what kind of fish you try to catch. But if is freshwater bass , there are good reels out there from South Korea and Japan. Lews, ABU, Kistler are good Korean reels. Shimano is a good reel from Japan... while you are upgrading, I would seriously consider upgrading your rod also. The power / action of the rod you describe doesn’t inspire good hook setting abilities with soft plastic baits...My 2cents.

Ron620DVS Loc: Guntersville Alabama

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Ballin’ On A Budget – The Best Bait-Casting Reels For Under $100

If you’re looking for a Bait-Casting Reel that won’t break the bank, this is the list for you.

After product testing, research, customer reviews, and an internal discussion amongst fellow anglers,

I have put together what I consider to be the best five bait-casting reels for under $100.

Having a quality reel will make everything about your day more enjoyable – you can cast further, reel smoother, and avoid more of the dreaded backlashes.

Collectively, these things will minimize your frustration and maximize your chances of success.

While having a good reel is critical, there is no reason to go overboard, especially if you’re a baller on a budget like myself.

"Don’t be too cheap and end up with a hunk of junk but don’t spend your last penny just to impress other anglers".

"The fish won’t notice the number of ball bearings in your reel, and they don’t care how much it cost".

Here is my list of the best five Bait-Casting reels for under $100 available today:


(1) Shimano SLX Bait-Casting Reel;

Reel Cost: $99

Shimano Casting-Reel:

Shop Shimano SLX; 5 STAR ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What is the best Bait-Casting Reel under $100? Many would say it’s the Shimano SLX—and for a good reason.

This reel provides anglers with tournament quality components, optimal performance, and all-day comfort—all for under $100.

The SLX Bait-Casting Reel feels and looks like a High Caliber Reel making it the perfect choice for anybody in need of a quality fishing reel.

Product Specifications:

Bearings: 3BB + 1RB

Line Cap. (Test/Yd.): 12/110, 14/90

Maximum Drag: 11lbs

Weight: 6.9oz



(2) Lews Speed Spool LFS Bait-Casting Reel;

Reel Cost: $99

Bait-Casting Reel Under 100

Shop Lews Speed Spool;

Featuring the new frame platform called LFS, this reel weighs only 7 ounces.

The LFS design also increases the distance between the zirconia line guide, which gives anglers extreme distance on the cast.

Key Features;

One-piece aluminum frame:

10 double-shielded premium stainless steel bearing system with Zero-Reverse anti-reverse

Anodized aluminum U-style spool

High strength solid brass gearing

Externally adjustable magnetic brake system (MCS)

Easily removable palming graphite side plate

Rugged Rulon drag system with 10 lb max drag

Product Specifications:

Bearings: 9SS + 1RB bearings

Max drag: 10 lb

Weight: 7.0 Oz.

Line Capacity (lb test/yd): 12/120



(3) Abu Garcia Revo X LP Bait-Casting Reel;

Reel Cost: $99

Bait-Casting Reel Under 100

Shop Revo X LP

The Abu Garcia Revo X LP will have you bringing in the big ones. Fitted with 7 ball bearings, Mag Trax brakes, Carbon Matrix Drag system, and an alloy frame, the Abu Garcia Revo X LP reel will hold up for years to come.

The Revo X LP is highly engineered and delivers on both performance and comfort.

The sleek body design composed of lightweight components makes for a comfortable fit helping anglers stick fish all day long.

In addition, this Abu Garcia Revo X LP is built with corrosion prevention technology that helps mitigate the chance of burning up a reel while fishing in nasty waters.

Available in multiple speed options to help you dial in specific techniques, the Abu Garcia Revo X LP is your next favorite reel.

Product Specifications:

Bearing Count: 8

Weight: 7.94



(4) Daiwa CG80 Bait-Casting Reel;

Reel Cost: $99

Shop CG80 Casting Reel;

The CG80 casting reels deliver unbelievable performance in a very palm-able ergonomic lightweight design.

Balance, longevity, and continued output are all things you’ll come to expect with this affordable casting reel from Daiwa.

Product Specifications:

Bearings: 7BB, 1RB

Max Drag: 15lbs

Line Capacity: MONO: 12/110 – 14/100

Spool: Double anodized aluminum

Frame: Carbon resin frame/side plate



(5) Quantum Throttle II Bait-Casting Reel;

Reel Cost: $79

Bait-Casting Reel Under 100

Shop Quantum Throttle;

The Quantum Throttle II Casting Reel is designed for tournament-level fishing.

Its technology ensures you are prepared for the challenges of a day on the water and is complete with features such as Dyna-Mag cast control, and Zero Friction Pinion.

This reel is lightweight in your hand, easy to navigate, and has a variety of settings for each situation.

Paired with the extended casting distance and comfort knobs, this is all-day dependability.

Product Specifications:

Maximum Drag: 15lbs

Bearings: 7BB + 1RB

Weight: 7.6oz.

Line Cap. (Test/Yd.): 12/135


Recommended For You...



Please click on link for additional information, Thank You.



https://shopkarls.com/blog/best-baitcasting-reel-under-hundred/



Ron620DVS🎣🐟🐠🐸🦞



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Ron620DVS Loc: Guntersville Alabama

[quote=Ben Bragg]

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Buyer's Guide: Big Swimbaits, Glide Baits, and Swimbait Rods;


TacticalBassin;

Which swimbaits work the best? Which big baits should you try? Is there one rod that will throw every swimbait?

Today's Buyer's guide is here to make your bass fishing life easier! Don't waste time with mediocre baits, focus on

the proven options that put big bass in the boat every day. Matt shows his favorite picks for soft baits, hard baits,

rods, and reels in today's Big Swimbait Holiday Buyer's Guide.

When it comes to soft baits Matt and Tim prefer baits with a jig hook on top. When necessary they switch to a

weed-less offering around thick cover. Baits like the Huddleston and Trash Fish are great in cooler water while the

more rigid boot tail style baits shine year round. Color selection should be focused on imitating the prey species in

your local lake but we've included a few color recommendations with each swimbait to give you a starting point.

For hard baits, we focused on a variety of different profiles. We've selected great options that imitate trout,

baitfish, and panfish. No matter where you are in the country, these hard baits will help you catch giant bass. Don't

be afraid to upsize your offering this year. You may be shocked to find that larger baits actually get more attention

from bass and will often draw them from great distances to inspect your swimbait.

Below is a breakdown of the baits and tackle Matt discussed in the video. You'll find direct links to each product on

a Tackle Warehouse, links to the hooks and rigging components when necessary, as well as to the rods and reels.

These buyer's guides are designed to keep everything simple so you can share these videos with your loved ones for the holiday season.


Soft Baits...

-Huddleston 8" Trout ROF 5:

-Huddleston 8" Trout ROF 12:

Colors- Trout, Ayu, Silver/Blue Back.

-Osprey Tournament Talon 6" and 7":

Colors- Chartreuse Shad, TW Shad, Reverse Hitch.

-Little Creeper Trash Fish 8":

Colors- Chartreuse Shad, LC Hitch, Just Shad, Rainbow Trout.
-Owner Beast 10/0 Hook:


-Keitech Fat Swing Impact 6.8:

Colors- Pro Blue Red Pearl, Electric Shad, Ghost Rainbow Trout.
-Owner Beast 8/0 Hook:

-Matt Allen Swimbait Head 3/4 Oz:


-Scottsboro Tackle 6" Swimbait:

Colors- Mullins Madness, OL Smokey, Payback Shad.
-Owner Beast 8/0 Hook:


Hard Baits...

-Baitsanity Explorer Ver. 2:

Colors- Trout, Kokanee, Shad.

-River2Sea S Waver 168 and 200:

Colors- Light Trout, Warden, Rainbow Trout.

-Storm Arashi Glide Bait:

Colors- Oikawa Mesu, Green Gill, Threadfin Shad.

-Jackall Gantarel:

Colors- Ghost Gill, Spawn Gill.

Replacement Hooks and Split Rings...
Split Rings- Owner Hyperwire Size 4 or 5:

Hooks for Baitsanity, S-Waver 200, Arashi- Owner ST-36 Size 1/0: http:

Hooks for Gantarel- Owner ST-36 Size 1:

Hooks for S-Waver 168- Owner ST-56 Size 2:



Favorite Rod/Reel Combo...
Rod- G Loomis IMX Pro 966:

((( Reel- Shimano Tranx 300 HG: )))

Line- 80 lb Power Pro Maxcuatro:

Leader- 35 lb Sunline FC-100:


Budget Rod/Reel Combo...
Rod- Dobyns Fury 806H:

Reel- Shimano Cardiff 300:

Line- 80 lb Power Pro Braid:

Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 30 lb:


Please click on link for additional "VIDEO" information, Thank You.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O40oYUrt4RQ



Ron620DVS🎣🐟🐠🐸🦞



🦞

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Don Fischer

Double post