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Is a baitcaster worth it in saltwater fishing?

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I have a spinning reel and currently do all saltwater and little freshwater fishing. I was wondering if it is worth it to invest money into buying a bait-casting reel. Also, I want to know how you can use the bait-casting reel differently than a spinning reel. I am new to fishing so i am still trying to get used to everything. Thanks!

I use a BC for inshore as well as a spinning reel. I'm more accurate with a BC and I prefer to use a BC for topwater. I bring both to allow me to throw different weights/lures and it gives my hand a break from the BC.

I love baitcasters, there are lots that work plenty great for saltwater. In Socal they are real popular. A big one like a Tranx 500 or Lexa 400 is capable of taking down Wahoo, Tuna, Dorado, Yellowtail etc. Smaller 300 size baitcasters like the NACL 50 are my standard for fishing inshore species around here. Ultimately it comes down to how you're fishing and to some extent what you're fishing for. 

  • Super User

Is a baitcaster worth it in saltwater fishing?

 

Why certainly!

 

I use my bass rod-n-reels for Speckled Trout & Redfish.

 

The #1 combo down here is a Shimano Citica CI200 on a Duckett Ghost or Falcon Inshore.

I use both types of reels but use mostly spinning reels for saltwater because in the coastal areas near me the wind is almost always blowing and that makes using baitcasters problematical.  I prefer baitcasters whenever I can use them but casting into a 15-20 mph headwind isn't much fun even if you are experienced.  And isn't fun the whole point?

  • Super User

You do not need a baitcaster.  Many spinning guys are just as accurate with their set up.  That said, I am not and prefer casters for all but the lightest of techniques.  I also feel more comfortable with a thumb release over a finger.......but a caster is just a different tool 

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