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If you’re looking to try your hand at baitcasting for the very first time then this is the best place to start your search for a new baitcasting reel. We’ve put together every bit of information you need about the best beginner baitcasting reel.
Baitcasting reels in recent times have become a favourite amongst fishermen who are learning how to use heavier lures and lines.
Generally, baitcasting reels are very challenging to master and this is due to the fact that their spool rotates rapidly while you cast making it difficult for beginners as it often results in backlash and birds nest formation.
Today, several manufacturers have developed various advanced spool braking technology that help to minimize or sometimes even eliminate this problem and as result, makes these models an ideal choice for beginners.
Benefits of Baitcasting Reels for Beginners
Beginner anglers can cast accurately using baitcasting reels due to better control of the line.
As a beginner, you can also control how the lure falls into the water using a baitcasting reel. This is important so that you do not make a big splash and scare off the fish.
Beginners can easily detect bites as they can have a better feeling of the line. It also offers cranking power needed for lures with high drag.
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REVIEW OF THE BEST BEGINNER BAITCASTING REELS 2022
PisciFun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
The PisciFun torrent features a very reliable drag system with a maximum drag of 8.1 kg/18 lbs. When it comes to its construction, the reel itself and its handle is made from aluminum, comes with a brass drive gear and carbon fiber drag washers.
This beginner baitcasting reel comes in 2 options. One with a 7.1:1 gear ratio which is very fast and the slower one with 5.3:1 gear ratio.
Beginner anglers can easily maintain this baitcasting reel as it has an opening on a side plate which is used for lubricating the reel.
Both the slow and fast options have very smooth bearings coming at 5+1 but The line retrieval varies. The faster model has a line retrieve of 76 cm/30 inches while the slower model is 58 cm /22.8 inches.
Although there may be a few backlashes, this braking system operates very well. In addition to this, it is quite bulky and weighs 8 ounces/0.22 kg.
This is generally a good choice for a beginner.
KastKing Royale Legend GT
This baitcasting for beginners comes with tons of amazing features and if you’re buying on a budget, then this is the best option for you.
When it comes to controlling backlashes, this baitcasting reel features the magnetic, centrifugal and dual braking systems which help beginners to control backlashes while they are still in a learning process.
The KastKing Royale Legend GT has a gear ratio of 7.0:1, with 75.5 cm/29.8 inches per turn.
It also comes with strong reels which perform exceptionally well and well made low-profile design and anodized aluminum spools.
This beginner baitcasting reel has 5+1 bearings which ensure a very smooth operation of the Baitcaster. In addition to this, it has a maximum drag of 8 kg/17.6 lbs
Abu Garcia Pmax 3
The Abu Garcia Pmax 3 is a great baitcasting reel for beginners and can be used in various situations. It is a low-profile reel which comes with a 6.4:1 gear ratio with 66 cm/26 inches per turn.
This beginner baitcasting reel features the very well made 4+1 bearings which make the reels feel very smooth.
In addition to this, it also comes with the magnetic braking system which works very well and reduces the chances of backlashes from happening.
The Abu Garcia Bmax 3 has a maximum drag of 8.1 kg/18 lbs.
It’s lightweight as a result of the graphite frame and plates it features. This baitcasting reel weighs 7.3 oz/0.206 kg.
The spool of this baitcasting reel is made from aluminum. It comes at a very good price point.
KastKing Spartacus II
The KastKing Spartacus ll has a 7.1:1 gear ratio with 71 cm/28 inches per turn. The bearings are 7 +1 and as such, ensure the smooth operation of the baitcasting reel.
This baitcasting reel is lightweight and comes at only 6 oz/0.17 kg. This means anglers will not have to worry about their devices putting a lot of pressure on their wrists.
The KastKing baitcasting reel is a low profile reel which has a maximum drag of 17.6 Ibs/8 kg.
When it comes to its build, both the handle and spool are made from aluminum which makes them quite sturdy.
Although the main material used is nylon, it comes with a few plastic parts too. In terms of braking, it features the dual braking system.
Abu Garcia S Max 3
The baitcasting reel S Max 3 has a gear ratio of 6.4:1. The spool is made from aluminium while the main body is made from graphite.
With this baitcasting reel, the angler has the opportunity to single handedly engage or disengage the spool and this is because the reel comes with a “rocket clutch ” feature.
The Braking system is magnetic and operates quite well. When it comes to the bearings, this baitcasting reel has 5+1 bearings and the maximum drag is 18 lb/8.1 kg, and the line retrieve is 66 cm/26 inches per turn.
The entire weight of the reel is 7.4 oz.
How to choose the best baitcasting reel for beginners
One of the challenges that beginners face when it comes to baitcaster fishing reels is learning how to cast effectively without generating backlash.
Thanks to technology, most modern reels give novice anglers the opportunity to cast easily as the technology slows down the spool, while casting.
Look for effective anti-backlash technology
The most important thing as a beginner is to choose a baitcaster which will allow you to cast easily without getting any backlash.
This buying guide covers all the important factors you have to consider when selecting the best baitcasting reel as a beginner.
A dual brake system is an important feature to consider as a beginner. This system combines the centrifugal and magnetic brakes and as such can be adjusted separately. It’s also important to note that every reel has a spool tension control which also helps to control the spool rotation.
Spool tension knob
As a beginner, the first thing you need to adjust is the spool tension knob. You can start by tightening it as it will prevent the spool from rotating very fast.
This spool tension knob is located next to the reel handle and it is usually adjusted to allow the spool to rotate freely.
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Magnetic braking system
The magnetic system of a baitcasting reel refers to about 6 to 10 magnets that slow down the spool. The magnets are meant to slow down the spool during the casting process.
There are different types of braking systems.
Centrifugal braking systems use friction. As a beginner, you can adjust them by pushing the pins outwards.
Magnetic braking systems on the other hand use magnets to slow down the spool. It’s very easy to adjust as a beginner.
When it comes to adjustments, beginner anglers can easily pull the magnets in or out that are placing them closer to the spool or further away from it.
Thumb pressure
While casting with a baitcaster, most experienced anglers rely a lot on thumb pressure to slow down spool rotation. This is because it allows them to modulate pressure during the casting process which then results in a higher casting accuracy.
This method is however not recommended for beginners as it is almost impossible to get it right the first time, which means you will likely end up overwhelmed and frustrated on your first fishing attempt.
It is rather recommended that as a beginner, you rely on the braking system of the models discussed above; you’re good enough to consider the thumb control method.
Rounded vs. Low profile
Low profile baitcasting reels are mostly used for fish species like bass. It is very popular and easy to use, especially for beginners. When casting, it gives anglers more control and it is much easier to palm.
On the other hand, rounded baitcasting reels perform very well with larger baits. They are usually a popular choice for anglers who use heavier lines as it can hold more lines, but they are very hard to control.
Material
As a beginner, the first baitcaster you buy will usually be for learning and practice and as such, you may want to start with the cheaper ones. You can choose between graphite and aluminium.
Aluminium can handle rough use,it is very affordable and sturdy. Although a lot of anglers go for this option, it is prone to damage.
When it comes to the spool, they are usually made from aluminium. Most high-end models on the other hand are made from forged aluminium.
Line guides can be aluminium, ceramic or titanium. Aluminium and ceramic are the cheapest while titanium is the most expensive.
Gear ratio
When it comes to choosing the best gear ratio, it is important to think about lures and fishing techniques.
For example, slower presentations done with crank baits usually require gear ratio around 5.4:1, those using spinner baits require 7.1:1 and medium option is 6.4:1.
Ball bearings
As a beginner, it’s important to note that well-made ball bearings are much better than the larger number of poorly done ones. Quality must always come before quantity.
However, if quality is the same then you should consider going in for a higher number.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are baitcasting reels good for beginners?
It depends. Most anglers start with spinning reels to gain experience and learn different fishing techniques; however, at some point, they will need to upgrade to baitcasting reels.
When this happens, you will still be a beginner when it comes to baitcasting although you may have lots of experience as an angler.
What’s the best gear ratio for baitcasting reels?
Almost all the fear ratios have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to note that very slow and very fast reels are made to be used in specific situations.
As a beginner, the best thing is that opt in for a medium speed, around 6.4:1
What lures should I use with baitcasting reels?
The type of lures to use will depend on the reel gear ratio, reel size, fish species you are trying to catch, your fishing rod amongst other factors.
On a general note, you can use a variety of lures such as cranks, bit larger jigs, swim baits, crank baits and many other top water lures too.
The only issue is, if your lures are very light, you may have issues with casting as a beginner as most of these reels are made to be used with heavier fishing lines and lures.
What type of rod should I use with a baitcasting reel?
When it comes to a baitcasting reel, it’s impatient to note that you can’t combine just any rod. Spinning rods are however not an option.
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CONCLUSION
As a beginner, it will take some time to learn how to use the best baitcasting reel. As a result, you should choose models from a good price point to help gain some experience first.
All the reels reviewed in this article are quite good and you will not go wrong with them.
We hope that this guide helps you in making a well informed purchasing decision so you finally enjoy your baitcasting reel as a beginner. Do not give up on your first attempt, keep learning and practising.
