Best Baitcasting Reels 2022: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

1. OUR TOP PICK: Abu Garcia Revo SX

At third place is the Revo SX baitcasting reel by Abu Garcia, a great all-rounder reel that should fall within most anglers’ budgets.

This model in particular is Abu Garcia’s most popular and successful, and that’s no fluke. They’re easy to palm whilst being lightweight, and they even retail in two differing gear ratios to appeal to a wider variety of fishermen.

Those ratios are the 6.6:1 and the 7.3:1. The first is best for all sorts of fishing techniques you may want to deploy, turning the reel into a workhorse that’s capable of multiple fishing styles.

The second is better for jig flipping or the general use of softer plastic baits, since it’ll allow you to get more out of your cast and add appealing movement when using topwater bait.

As of the Revo SX’s newest model, they have a D2 Duragear brass gear that extends the gear life of these reels, arguably the most important component of the reel since it facilitates its turning motion.

The reel is topped off with hard, friction-eliminating coatings on the pawl and pinion of these reels.

It also utilizes nine plus one ball bearings for a smoother operation and an Infini magnetic brake system on its side plate to make it responsive to your stop and go commands.

Those side plates are also made from C6 carbon, reducing the total weight of the reels without sacrificing durability.

All these features above turn the Abu Garcia Revo SX into a versatile and performance-based reel that doesn’t break the bank, and you should get a lot of use out of them to justify the purchase regardless.

2. EDITORS CHOICE: Lews Fishing Tournament MB

We mentioned in the previous Lew’s entry that there was yet another of their reels coming up and here it is, the Lew’s Tournament MB Special Spool.

It’s ideal for those who are serious about their fishing and want a tournament-grade angling experience but are concerned that they can’t foot the bill of higher-end, premium reels.

Like much of Lew’s catalog, the Tournament MB is great for distance casting without you having to put too much effort into it.

This works great when using crankbaits or light jerkbaits.

The Tournament MB also benefits from Lew’s Lighter, Faster, Stronger construction mantra that sees this reel forged from a single piece of aluminum framing that’s combined with a drilled and anodized aluminum spool for added environmental durability whilst remaining lightweight.

We’d suggest you consider this reel if you’re an avid bass angler since it’s an exceptionally easy reel to handle and control.

It’s compact, palms easy, yet the handle features oversized knobs that are great for dragging larger fish out of their cover.

This doesn’t mean the reel is a blunt instrument, however, since you can fine-tune its brakes to meet your preferred fishing style. It’s easily done by tweaking four pins found on its graphite side plate and an accompanying adjustment dial.

3. BEST VALUE: Daiwa Tatula CT

The eighth reel we’ve chosen to show you is the Daiwa Tatula CT Baitcasting Reel, an innovative little model that uses its own T-Wing casting system.

It takes some getting used to if you’re inexperienced with reels that flip open and shut when casting, but once you’ve gotten used to it, you’ll be rewarded with a further casting distance.

The T-Wing setup is a special line guide design that not only reduces friction and cast obstruction, they also maintain a level line so that the line can be retrieved without it catching or knotting.

It flips up into the casting position, which opens up a wide slot so that the line can flow through easier on the cast.

The slot is bigger than the usually small hole that other baitcasting reels often have, so with this reel the line is much less restricted.

When retrieving, the T-Wing then flips downwards to hold the line in a narrow groove, leveling it so that there’s very little chance of it moving and tangling itself.

The casting and retrieving actions are smooth thanks to the eight bearings built into the reel and they stop on a dime because of the Magforce-X casting brakes they have, making them a super-responsive reel option.

4. RUNNER UP: Ardent Apex Elite

Last but not least we have the Ardent Apex Elite Fishing Reel. Ardent’s Apex series is a great set of reels that they offer, and the Elite is their second best. There isn’t any functional difference between the second best and the best, the Ardent Apex Grand, since it’s only available in different colors and only one gear ratio.

So that’s why we’re sticking with the Ardent Apex Elite. It gives you the same functionality for less and is capable of more gear ratios than the Grand, supporting both 6.5:1 and 5.3:1 speed. It also has a twelve plus one bearing system that helps this model cast further and eliminates any complications that can arise during distance casting.

As for the reel’s construction, it’s made with an aluminum frame and spool to be lightweight yet durable. To the same end, the handles of the reel are also carbon fiber and the knobs have EVA foam padding on them, making them sit easier in your hand and softer to hold where they’d otherwise dig in under the stress of a cast.

The flex-free frame ensures that the reel won’t become misshapen or in any way distorted by the pressures applied to it during casting and retrieval. Its 270-degree magnetic brake dial can be used to establish what level of break you want and, once that’s been decided, it’ll be responsive and stop instantly.

5. RUNNER UP: SHIMANO Citica

Next is another reel from Shimano, this time the Shimano Citica I. This reel model builds on Shimano’s long history of delivering reliable and durable reels capable of performing.

They’re also great for longevity, especially if you’re ready and willing to clean and/or replace the bearings on them to add a few years of use.

They’re tough for reels at this price, so they should pay for themselves twice over in terms of how long they’ll last.

Throughout their lifetime they’ll provide you with a smooth casting experience whilst at the same time stopping when you want it to.

This is because of its adjustable Infinity SVS braking system that allows you to tailor its performance to your preference.

The spool itself is Shimano’s S3D spool, a stable model that uses S-A-RB bearings to increase the smoothness of both casting and retrieving.

An X-Ship pinion is also used, which not only improves gear durability, but it also maintains a more precise alignment with the other inner workings of the reel, such as the drive gear.

This allows the reel to retain its position if and when you’re engaged in a tense reeling match with a fish.

6. RUNNER UP: Shimano Chronarch MGL

The first baitcasting reel we have for your consideration is the Shimano Chronarch MGL 150, a medium price range reel that makes up for its price with its performance.

It’s one of the more expensive models on this list, but it doesn’t cost anywhere near the higher-end magnesium-framed reels available.

This leaves you with a high-quality product that delivers a high performance for a lower price, a perfect intersection of capability and affordability that’s sure to delight many anglers.

It only weighs 6.5 ounces thanks to its carbon composite frame, making it lightweight yet heavy on enhanced fishers.

One of these is the inclusion of Shimano’s reputable high-end reels with the MGL in particular retailing with an X-Ship gear arrangement that makes the reels stabler than others, and so stronger.

Other features include the namesake of this reel, its MGL (or Magnumlite) Spool, which reduces the necessary casting effort on your part by an entire tenth.

There’s also the Micro Module gearing, which is designed to retrieve your line smoothly, reducing complications and allowing you to reel in with some added strength and stability.

Dartanium II drag washers add to the smoothness of these reels and are also super adjustable.

Its SVS Infinity braking system ensures that this reel can stop on a dime, perfect for accurate and responsive reel control when it counts.

Even the braking action is adjustable via an openable side plate that features four internal braking options, allowing you to change them up depending on the fish you’re angling for, and so adding even more versatility to this reel set.

We’d describe the Chronarch MGL 150 as a workhorse reel, perfect for those who need reliable and variable performances without breaking the bank and without straining their rod with a heavy reel model.

We’d suggest it’s a particularly good choice if you’re using relatively weightless plastic lures, or finesse lures, though flipping and pitching are more than possible with these too once you’ve gotten to grips with them.

7. RUNNER UP: Abu Garcia Revo STX

Here we have another reel from Abu Garcia, and also part of the Revo range. This time it’s the STX, an upgraded model with high-end bearings and a brake system that supports three separate gearing ratios, those being 6.4, 7.1, and 8.0:1.

It’s a tuned-up version of the Revo SX that we put at the number three spot on this list, though note that we’ve put it lower down since we think most anglers can get what they want out of the Revo SX for a cheaper price.

Part of this upgrade is that third ratio, the old Revo SX only being capable of two, so this model is a shoo-in if you need a higher 8.0:1 gear ratio.

Despite this, the reel weight has dropped by 0.3 ounces, from 6.9 to 6.4. It also does its work with unparalleled smoothness thanks to the ten plus one bearings that can be found in the reel.

The aforementioned braking system is by far the biggest difference between the Revo SX and the Revo STX.

This is because the STX’s braking uses a magnetic system to stop sooner, which is only helped by the Infini brake system that’s seen an upgrade since the SX.

The reel is easy to palm and a carbon matrix drag system means that it won’t feel heavy when you do it. A D2 Gear Design also maximizes your hook setting power, as well as how forceful, and so effective, your cranking action is.

8. RUNNER UP: Tempo Vertix LP

This is one of the top baitcasting reels available in the market which is known for its high performance.

Being in the industry for manufacturing rods and reels for the past 50 years, Tempo provides externally adjustable braking system that also offers maximum casting distance which minimizes the chances of backlashes considerably, thus balancing performance with flexibility.

There is a braid-ready machined aluminum spool offering a great retrieve without the usual line slips. There is a 6.6:1 gear ratio and long-lasting brass pinion gear that will ensure a very smooth operating reel.

9. RUNNER UP: KastKing Royale Legend II

KastKing is known for its commendable engineering and offers the best fishing reel which is totally redesigned for optimum performance, comfort and durability.

KastKing Royale Legend II is considered to be one of the great baitcasting reels by having a graphite frame.

Also, the side frames are very compact and of palmable shape. This baitcasting reel is also equipped with 8 magnetic button braking system that has ten levels of brake adjustment.

This maximizes the distance of the casting while minimizing any issues especially under less than perfect fishing conditions.

Performance improvement was indeed the core objective when this Royal Legend II baitcasting fishing reel was developed. The overall durability, strength and cranking smoothness of this is amazing and enjoys rave reviews by its users.

10. RUNNER UP: KastKing Spartacus I & II

KastKing Spartacus Baitcasting Fishing Reel is a high performance, high-quality baitcasters which are known for its precision in making and affordable innovation.

It has magnetic dual brake system, carbon fiber drags, 6.3:1 gear ratio and 11+1 stainless steel shielded the ball bearings.

The durable brass gears, instant stop anti-reverse and CNC aluminum spool offer the most promising baitcasting reel for you. This bait also provides a left-handed option for left-handed people.

The KastKing Spartacus components are corrosion resistant and have the ability to give you hours on end of the fish fighting performance. This can be suitably used both in saltwater as well as freshwater.

11. RUNNER UP: Lew’s Mach Crush SLP

Mash Crush is considered as one of the best baitcast reels that feature the exclusive Super Low Profile (SLP) and compact Speed Spool design in a durable graphite frame. The sideplates are also made up of graphite.

This product is known for its superior and high-end performance that becomes possible due to its premium 10-bearing system which is again double-shielded with stainless steel bearings and Zero Reverse anti-reverse.

The crankshaft and gear are made out of strong solid brass. The bowed aluminum handle of 95 mm features oversized Winn Dri-Tac knobs that ensure a good no-slip grip under all circumstances.

The drag system is made up of rugged carbon and provides up to 20 lb. of drag power.

12. RUNNER UP: Daiwa Tatula CT

This Daiwa baitcaster is considered a great baitcasting reel which comes equipped with multiple gear ratios starting from 5.4:1 and extending to the highest at 8.1:1 providing it with a super smooth cast and reel.

This particular reel is very popular and is used by most professional fishermen all over the globe.

This has a max drag of 13.2 lbs and also is empowered with 8+1 ball bearing system for ultra-smooth casting which is as smooth as butter.

The USP of Tatula is that it gives the user the maximum control in order to cast exactly where you require it. The T-Wing System casting has provided this reel with a leading edge over others in its class.

The 90 mm cutout handle reduce the weight on this reel and make it very light-weighted. The clutch mechanism is completely corrosion-resistant.

The MagForce-z cast control is a very important feature of this product that adds to the efficient controlling of the device.

13. RUNNER UP: Abu Garcia REVO

The Revo Winch baitcasting reel from Abu Gracia is one of the preferred all-around reels which an angle can purchase today.

Being lightweight, this reel is not only easy to palm but also easy to get a grip on.

This reel comes with a low gear ration of 5.4:1 to make crank baiting easy for people preferring the freshwater or saltwater lakes. This also eases the resistance that high baits offer.

With dual brakes, the Revo Winch helps users to reel in the game with ease. The centrifula brake is found on the spool while the magnetic brake is located within the sideplate.

This is ultra-smooth on the cast as it is equipped with 8+1 stainless steel ball bearings. This particular reel is certainly a great option in case you are looking for complete versatility, reliability and performance in a new reel.

To add to it all, this model of baitcasting reel does not cost a fortune.

14. RUNNER UP: Cadence CB5

When it comes to the top baitcasting reels, the Cadence CB5 provides with exceptional and unmatched performance housed in a sleek matter red or black frame.

This is surely incredible for your fishing endeavors. It is equipped with 8 corrosion-resistant bearings which contribute to its remarkably smooth operation.

The carbon fiber drag system provides a lot of power. An externally adjustable magnetic brake system would virtually eliminate the backlashes and at the same time be very quick and easy to be adjusted.

This wonderfully designed Cadence CB5 baitcasting reel is conveniently available in both right and left-hand retrieves as well as a variety of gear ratios are available.

This baitcaster can be an ideal choice for the majority of the baitcasting techniques & applications. From skipping your favorite jig to flipping and pitching and beyond, this can be used.

15. RUNNER UP: Shimano 17

This is one of the best baitcast reels with a 7.2:1 high gear ratio and has 5 S ARB bearings. Thus, the operation of this baitcasting reel is absolutely smooth.

The ball bearing used in this baitcasting reel is corrosive-resistant and thus very durable. This is available in Left Hand (LH) version which is great news for all left-handed baitcaster folks.

16. RUNNER UP: Pflueger President XT

This is considered as one of the best rated baitcasting reels that has low profile baitcast reels.

No detail was at all ignored during the process of developing this product. The C45 side plates really make this particular reel absolutely light-weighted, tight, comfortable in hand, and all the more durable.

The 9 bearings which are made up of corrosion-resistant stainless steel are present in this baitcasting reel. This makes its operation absolutely smooth.

This baitcasting reel is equipped with a magnetic braking system that is externally adjustable and has brake controls spool rotation & backlash.