OK., so I have never fished with a baitcaster and am a bit intimidated with the idea. Is there a certain type of reel that is easier to learn with? I was wondering about centrifugal versus magnetic brakes etc. A specific model/brand would be welcome too.

Thanks

there is a lot of threads on here about baitcasters read them they will help

OP, I'd advise you to spend some money ($60-$100) and get a decent reel (not a walmart special). It'd actually help your learning process. Used is fine too, if you don't want to spend a lot.

Centrifugal braking reels are probably easier to learn on. Anyway, all my reels have centrifugal braking. So it's just my opinion.

Good luck.

Invest in a decent reel and your learning experience will be less frustrating and you won't "outgrow" the reel. Shimano Citica, Revo S, Daiwa Exceller, BPS Pro Qualifier.... anything in this range will last a long time and be fairly user friendly. Centrifugal brakes are a better choice IMO especially to learn with. Check the Skeet reel thread for more tips for beginning baitcasting.

I completely agree with the above post about investing some money. About 11 years ago I bought a cheap baitcasting reel ($30-35 wal-mart special), used it 3-4 x's, hated it, took it back and did not use one again until two years ago when I got tired of the line snarls from my spinning reels. I purchased a flueger eschelon ($60) that worked well and at least kept me interested in using a baitcaster. I was still disappointed though in the distance/weight of bates, that I could cast so I decided to invest in a curado e series reel. Man what a difference. I have since bought two more, and cant even bear to use the eschelon anymore. I think your experience will be much more positive if you spend something around the $100-$150 range if you can. FYI...ohya.com is selling curado e series reels for $133 w/ free shipping. I hear great things about last years citca model as well. You could probably get one of those for under $100. For me I prefer the centrifrugal breaking system, to the eschelon's magnet breaking system. However, that may be just the difference in quality of reels that I have compared as well. Let us know what you get. Would be interested in hearing. Welcome to the forum.

The BPS Enigma reel is a good one to start learning on due to its dual braking system. Once you get the hang of it you can purchase a better reel to use and keep the Enigma for backup. My opinion anyway.

Up to a point the more expensive reels are easier to use. Bait casting takes practice and if you are not willing to spend the time don't bother.

It is frustrating to be spending time on the water unsnarling backlashes so practice in the yard, driveway etc.

Up to a point the more expensive reels are easier to use. Bait casting takes practice and if you are not willing to spend the time don't bother.

It is frustrating to be spending time on the water unsnarling backlashes so practice in the yard, driveway etc.

Practice in the yard, used 3/8oz and 1/2oz old lures without hooks to learn how to cast and make adjustments. And like the others have said, get a decent reel, it doesn't have to be $300 but you don't want a 49.99 dollar special so stick with a reel around the $100 range.

I did A LOT of reading on this website prior to getting my first casting set up. I would recommend you do the same. I got a Shimano Citica and paired with a 7' M weight BPS extreme rod.

Practiced a lot with it. Be conservative and humble in your expectations when you start, and work your way up. If you have someone who knows what they are doing around to assist you that will help also.