Few things in bass fishing are as crucial as a good baitcast reel. This reel style does the heavy lifting for many bass-fishing techniques, and having some rigged and ready is essential for any fishing trip. There are many solid brands to choose from, and the prices and features vary significantly, but the reels listed below fit every need and budget and are worth the price tag.
Under $150
You don't have to spend a bunch of money to get a good reel. These reels are well-built and ready to go fishing and cost a fraction of the price of other reels on this list.
Piscifun Torrent II - $44.99
The retail price for this reel is less than that of some fishing lures, but for the money, it would be hard to find a better fishing reel. While it may not last nearly as long as more expensive reels and doesn't have as many bells and whistles, the Torrent II is a solid reel that will do everything you need it to. It comes in either a right- or left-handed model with two gear ratios, and it is perfect for a great beginner reel or for someone looking to add a new reel without spending a lot of money.
Shimano SLX A 150 - $114.99
Shimano makes many different reels, but the SLX A is right at the price point many anglers are looking for, which is why the reel is a consistent best seller. The SLX comes in several models, including some larger and smaller versions and one with a DC casting system, but the SLX A hits the mark for a low-cost reel that is still very good. It has many features from higher-end Shimano reels of the past that have trickled down to this price level, including the HAGANE body and SVS braking system.
SEVIIN GF Series - $135
The SEVIIN brand is relatively new, but it is part of the St. Croix Rods family and has the same quality and performance that the rods are known for. The GF Series is outstanding for the money, offers three gear ratios, and is built with quality bearings, carbon fiber handles, and many other components usually found in more expensive reels.
$150-$250
This is the sweet spot for many baitcast reels, as they generally feature advanced technology for casting performance and are built to last for years. The following are excellent choices for this middle-of-the-road price.
Lew's Speed Spool RX - $179.99
Lew's recently updated several of their baitcast reels, and the Speed Spool RX is one of the best. It uses a new braking system called ParaMag RX, which is a magnetic system that is incredible for casting performance. Beyond that, it has 20 pounds of drag, a Carbon fiber system, and a very lightweight one-piece aluminum frame.
Shimano Curado 150 M - $234.99
The Curado name has been a staple since it first hit the scene, and each new version keeps getting better. The new "M" model has Shimano's MGL (Magnumlite) spool for incredible casting distance and MicroModule gearing for increased smoothness. Curado is a legendary name in bass fishing, and this reel continues the long tradition of great Shimano baitcast reels.
Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150 - $229.99
Daiwa has many Tatula products, but this reel is one of their best, carrying the name and packed with great technologies that make it very smooth and cast lures incredibly well. The SV is for the spool, which helps the reel cast very lightweight baits. The TW in the name stands for the T-Wing system, which also improves casting performance and line management. There are several models to choose from. The 150 size is a good all-around reel that can do just about everything, and it does it very well.
$250 and Above
Taking it up a notch in price, you can get an exceptional reel that is smooth and ready to fish for many years to come. All the reels at this price are well-built and deliver incredible performance.
Abu Garcia Revo STX LP - $259.95
The Revo name includes many different reels, but the STX LP may be the workhorse of the bunch. It can be used for several techniques, but the 95mm handle, oversized knobs, and 25 pounds of drag make it great for power-fishing techniques that require winching fish in from thick cover. Even though it's beefier than some Revo models, it's still very lightweight and smooth.
Svivlo Draken ONE - $275
Svivlo is a Swedish company that has turned heads at fishing events like ICAST with its unique reels. They developed a braking technology called CastGuard that eliminates the need to thumb a baitcast reel to slow it down during a cast. You do not need to touch the spool at all during a cast. You read that right, it's something that needs to be seen to be believed, and it works very well in all conditions.
The Draken ONE reel is made for freshwater fishing and will handle baits from around 1/6-ounce to 1 1/2-ounces, which fit most bass fishing. Besides the casting performance, it's a solid reel made of carbon fiber to keep it light.
Shimano TranX 300 B - $349.99
If you use big lures like swimbaits and glide baits, stepping up to a larger 300-sized reel will make your life much easier. The bigger reel will handle more yards of heavier pound-test line and will help cast these lures much better. The TranX comes in smaller and larger sizes, but the 300 B is a perfect size for these lures, and it's built tough. It can be used in both fresh and saltwater, so it's sealed and features many components that keep it performing well in all conditions, such as strong drag and tough gearing.
Choosing your next baitcast reel will come down to your budget, but there are many options to choose from, no matter how much you are willing to spend. The reels on this list are proven on the water and would be a solid choice for any bass angler.
