As with most fishing gear available on the market, baitcasting reels come in a dizzying array of options, quality, and components. There are several simple characteristics, however, that can be easily learned by the novice. And which will aid tremendously in correctly choosing a good baitcasting reel.
Let’s dive right in.
How to Choose Baitcasting Reels
The most important characteristics to pay attention to are body material and construction, bearing material and construction, and the turn ratio of the crank.
There is a general impression that baitcasting reels are for more advanced fisherman. But that is not necessarily the case anymore.
Many of the reels available on the market today are of such high quality that even a novice fisherman can easily master the techniques and uses of a baitcasting reel.
The Body
The body of a baitcasting reel is normally made of one of two types of material: aluminum or graphite.
Graphite
Graphite reels are lightweight and highly resistant to corrosion. Which makes these reels particularly useful in a saltwater fishing environment due to the high salinity of the water. However, graphite is not quite as strong or durable as aluminum.
Aluminum
If you want to chase after those giant marlins or tuna, then you will probably want to opt for the aluminum reel because of their strength. On the other hand, if you are only after crappie or other panfish, then a graphite bodied reel may just be the right choice for you.
Ball Bearings
Another important consideration when looking at baitcasting reels is the ball bearings or bushings inside the reel. These are the components of the reel that have the most direct impact on the smoothness and “feel” of the reel.
As a general rule, stainless steel ball bearings are preferable to bushings. Also, the more ball bearings the unit contains, the smoother the cranking will be.
Smooth Cranking
Smooth cranking is essential for a good fishing reel of any type. So that you can feel the action of the line in the water and whether or not you have a fish on the line. Baitcasting reels come with a range of ball bearing counts, usually from two to six.
Two bearings would be an absolute minimum. While a fisherman should purchase a reel with the most amount of bearings their budget will allow for. Obviously, the more bearings a reel contains, the more expensive the reel will be.
Turn Ratio of Baitcasting Reels
A further consideration for choosing a good baitcasting reel is the turn ratio of the crank. Baitcasting reels come with a variety of turn ratio’s ranging from 2:1, all the way to 1:6.
The first number refers to the number of turns of the crank. While the second number refers to the number of times the spool rotates. For example 1:6 means that for every turn of the crank the spool turns 6 times, which is obviously a very high cranking power.
Good Applications
Trolling, bottom bouncing, and jig working are good applications for high cranking power, while bank fishing and general line hanging are better suited to low cranking power. For a good middle of the road number, choose a 4:1 ratio.
Other Factors for Choosing Baitcasting Reels
Other factors that should be considered when choosing baitcasting reels is to include the drag system, casting controls, and specialized reels for a particular species of fish.
Now I’d like to hear from you.
If you found this post on Baitcasting Reels informative please share it on social media through the buttons on this page and/or leave a comment below. Thank You For Reading!
For more information and cool fishing products check us out!
