The key to getting the best baitcaster under $200 is to look for the right specifications. Features that make these reels worthy of buying include gear ratio, braking system, drag system, and a couple more things. Look for the specs that fulfill your fishing needs and are according to your preference.
The plethora of options leaves buyers perplexed. I have been a baitcasting expert for quite a long time now. I remember how overwhelming yet challenging it was to choose my first every baitcaster. If you are upgrading your reel, best baitcaster under $200 is a good start. I have covered all the best options in detail below.
After testing out more than 15 baitcasting reels under $200, I found SHIMANO SLX DC as the overall best baitcaster under 200. followed by CURADO K, and Lew’s Tournament MP Baitcast Reel. The main highlight of these best baitcasting reels under 200 dollars is the top-notch performance with maximum comfort.
- Quick Product Overview
- 10 Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200
- 1. SHIMANO SLX DC – Overall Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200
- 2. CURADO K – Best Baitcaster For Bass
- 3. Lew's Tournament MP Baitcast Reel – Best Lightweight
- 4. Abu Garcia Revo SX Fishing Reel – Best For Freshwater
- 5. Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Reels – Best Premium
- 6. KastKing Kapstan Elite – Best For Conventional Fishing
- 7. Piscifun Chaos XS Fishing Reel – Best Round-Profile Baitcasting Reel Under $200
- 8. Lew's Speed Spool Baitcast Reel – Best For Beginners
- 9. Abu Garcia Revo X Fishing Reel – Best Value For Money
- 10. KastKing Crixus Fishing Reels – Best Budget Friendly
- Buying Guide
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Quick Product Overview
- SHIMANO SLX DC – Overall Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200
- CURADO K – Best For Bass
- Lew’s Tournament MP Baitcast Reel – Best Lightweight
- Abu Garcia Revo SX Fishing Reel – Best For Freshwater
- Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Reels – Best Premium
- KastKing Kapstan Elite – Best For Conventional Fishing
- Piscifun Chaos XS Round Reel – Best Round-Profile Baitcasting Reel Under 200
- Lew’s Speed Spool Baitcast Reel – Best For Beginners
- Abu Garcia Revo X Fishing Reel – Best Value
- KastKing Crixus Fishing Reels – Best Budget Friendly
Now detailed reviews of each best baitcaster reel under 200:
10 Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200
1. SHIMANO SLX DC – Overall Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200
Specification
- Gear ratio: 6.3:1, 7.2:1, 8.2:1
- Max drag: 12 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.47 lbs.
While vacationing in Florida, I and my friends planned fishing on the West Coast (Gulf side). I took along the Shimano SLX DC for saltwater fishing. Fortunately, this baitcaster didn’t disappoint at all, thanks to its premium construction.
To make the most out of this reel, I paired it with the Shimano SLX 7’ rod. The combo became deadly and offered tremendous casting accuracy. The highlight of this reel is the advanced SVS Infinity braking system which ensures easy adjustments and eliminates backlash issues.
Using this baitcaster, I caught a few largemouth bass, trout, and redfish. The 12 lbs. max drag made the fight convenient. Since it requires adjustments to resolve backlash, beginners might not be able to manage this reel. The less complicated choice for them is the Lew’s Speed Spool Baitcast Reel.
Pros
- Brilliant durability
- Efficient braking system
- Offers great power when paired with the right rod
Cons
- Unsuitable for beginners
Verdict
All in all, this reel offers everything that you would expect from a high-end Shimano baitcaster. From superb durability to smooth operation, it has so much more.
2. CURADO K – Best Baitcaster For Bass
Specification
- Gear ratio: 7.4:1, 8.5:1
- Max drag: 11 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.47 lbs.
Featuring a decent max drag and gear ratios, I chose this reel to catch my favorite fish i.e., bass. During my trips to Mexico, Ohio, and Florida in the last 8 months, I used the Shimano Curado K. While in Florida, I used anchovies and the reel threw these perfectly.
With the 7.4:1 variant, I opted for a 30 lbs. braided line along with 14 lbs. fluoro leader. Using this, I easily caught 20 to 40 lbs. bass, lake trout, and salmon. One of my friends tried the 8.5:1 variant and used 55 lbs. braided line with 17 lbs. fluoro leader. He easily reeled in some large-sized bass and perform flipping and pitching techniques.
During initial tries, I experienced slight backlashes which were resolved with the easy adjustments of efficient braking systems.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Smooth performance for a variety of fish
- Manages load effortlessly
- Excellent drag system
Cons
- Some backlash issues
Verdict
Considering all the amazing features, the Shimano Curado K never disappoints. This model is a brilliant choice for a variety of fishing techniques including bass. However, the only issue I encountered was slight backlashes which can be prevented by adjusting the brakes appropriately.
3. Lew’s Tournament MP Baitcast Reel – Best Lightweight
Specification
- Gear ratio: 5.6:1, 6.8:1, 7.5:1, 8.3:1
- Max drag: 20 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.43 lbs.
Picked up this extremely lightweight reel to showcase my baitcasting skills in freshwater as well as saltwater. It offers brilliant casting distance and works like a horse without adding significant weight. The Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) allows easy and quick adjustments depending on the fishing technique and lure type.
As I paired this reel up with a 6’8” Falcon rod with medium action, I could use jerk baits and crankbaits like a charm. Furthermore, the reel didn’t encounter any issues when coupled with a 33 lbs. Angry fish plx4 braided line. With this, I reeled in 8 lbs. bass, panfish, walleye, and a few salmon.
I have used this reel in saltwater a couple of times and washed it with freshwater post-use. However, it still built up some corrosion in the mechanical parts which I lubed generously to save from further damage. Reels with saltwater protection such as KastKing Crixus Fishing Reels could be a better choice.
Pros
- An efficient magnetic system prevents backlashes
- Smooth drag and retrieval
- Silent performance under pressure
Cons
- Would corrode if not lubed thoroughly after using in saltwater
Verdict
Designed to provide superb performance with all the right features, the Lew’s Tournament MP is one of the best lightweight baitcaster under $200.
4. Abu Garcia Revo SX Fishing Reel – Best For Freshwater
Specification
- Gear ratio: 6.6:1, 7.3:1
- Max drag: 24 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand
- Weight: 0.48 lbs.
I wanted to replace my old Abu Garcia reel with an equally competent baitcaster hence, got the Revo SX. This model is indeed one of the most premium ones that handled my PowerPro test line of 20 lbs. effortlessly. The deepest it went is roughly 30 ft. and I was able to put it at approximately 120 yds.
However, when I spooled the reel with my 20 lbs. Sufix 832 braided line, it was put around 150 yds. Using the Abu Garcia vengeance rods, I pulled in 20 lbs. redfish, some crappie, perch, and panfish. One of the best things about this reel is its Infini Braking System which consists of both magnetic and centrifugal systems for improved performance.
One of my friends used this reel in saltwater but the performance started to deteriorate even after washing and oiling. The only reason is no saltwater protection. So, make sure to look for the reels that work fine in fresh and saltwater so you don’t lose their superiority. For example, KastKing Kapstan Elite works great in a variety of waters.
Pros
- Premium low-profile reel
- Casts well
- Highly efficient drag and brakes
Cons
- Might not work in salt water with the same superiority
Verdict
Who doesn’t want the best baitcaster reel under $200 which offers all the top-notch specs? For me, this reel worked like a champ and I would highly recommend it to all freshwater anglers.
5. Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Reels – Best Premium
Specification
- Gear ratio: 6.3:1, 7.3:1, 8.1:1
- Max drag: 13.8 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand
- Weight: 0.45 lbs.
Out of the three gear ratios, I chose 6.3:1 since my aim was to catch some medium-sized fish. While it is made premium, it also performs in a similar way. My testing for this reel was done on two different rods i.e., 7’ ft. medium-heavy moderate and medium-heavy fast action. Needless to say, there was no backlash even a single time.
I opted for the 3/8 to 5/8 baits and the reel cast more than a mile with impeccable accuracy. Speaking of the line capacity, it is 14 lbs./ 100 yds. which could’ve been better for an expensive baitcaster like this. Because of the limited line weight and capacity, this reel isn’t ideal for surf fishing.
Moreover, it is only available in right-hand retrieve, being incompatible for people that have a dominant left hand. A better alternative to this reel with high line capacity and ambidextrous hand orientation could be Abu Garcia Revo X Fishing Reel.
Pros
- Smooth retrieve
- Prevents backlash
- Easy adjustments for brakes
Cons
- Offers right-hand orientation only
- Limited line capacity
Verdict
It is unreal how tremendously this reel works with different rods of varying lengths and power. As a whole, this model is surely the best baitcast reel under $200 that ensures exceptional performance for numerous fish in different environments.
6. KastKing Kapstan Elite – Best For Conventional Fishing
Specification
- Gear ratio: 5.4:1
- Max drag: 35 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand
- Weight: 0.67 lbs.
From inshore and offshore fishing to saltwater and freshwater, this baitcaster was the best conventional reel by Kastking. Almost for every use, I paired this reel with KastKing Crixus rods to get the maximum performance. Since it is a conventional reel, it worked well with longer and heavy rods. With a 25 lbs. braided line, the casting distance was over 300 yds. and I got a large 28” Lingcod and 34” Halibut.
The impeccable max drag of 35 lbs. Results in tremendous power to fight off big game fish without breaking the line. I also used 65 lbs. braided line and used heavier umbrella rigs and swimbaits without any trouble. From steelhead, pike, muskie, salmon, and bass to snook, redfish, striper, and more, I have caught them all with this reel.
The only issue that I encountered with this reel was its chunky weight. Though I managed it on brief fishing trips. Whereas, for prolonged sessions, I opted for the extremely lightweight option i.e., Lew’s Tournament MP Baitcast Reel.
Pros
- Incredible drag and power
- Premium quality construction
- Impeccable canting accuracy and distance
- Efficient centrifugal brakes prevent backlash
Cons
- Heavy
Verdict
When it comes to buying a powerful reel for hefty fishing, KastKing Kapstan offers a tremendous all-around performance.
7. Piscifun Chaos XS Fishing Reel – Best Round-Profile Baitcasting Reel Under $200
Specification
- Gear ratio: 5.3:1
- Max drag: 20 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.76 lbs.
This well-built round baitcaster reel has been one of my top fishing arsenals for almost a year now. To catch larger muskie and catfish, I used this reel with a. 7’6” rod. The combo did the job well and I was able to reel in a huge 42 lbs. channel catfish. Because of the round profile, the reel has sufficient power to handle hefty species.
Since it is designed for saltwater too, I used it in different waters with higher salinity. Fortunately, the reel didn’t lose its supremacy and worked superbly. That said, I reeled in massive pike, muskie, carp, bluefish, striped bass, and more.
I opted for the PowerPro 50 lbs. braided line and the casting distance and accuracy were beyond my expectations. Weighing significantly high, it might not fit smaller hands. So, look for small and lightweight options such as Lew’s Tournament MP Baitcast Reel.
Pros
- Comfortable forged handles
- Smooth casting and retrieve
- Anti-corrosion bearings
Cons
- Quite bulky for small palms
Verdict
If you are in search of the best baitcasting reels under $200 that can handle massive fish without any issues, look no further than the Piscifun Chaos XS reel.
8. Lew’s Speed Spool Baitcast Reel – Best For Beginners
Specification
- Gear ratio: 5.6:1, 6.8:1, 7.5:1
- Max drag: 15 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.44 lbs.
One of the smoothest reels out there, the Lew’s Speed Spool ensures a memorable experience. With highly efficient and adjustable drags, the retrieve is buttery smooth regardless of the fishing technique. I used the 7.5:1 with a Fenwick HMG 6’6” rod and spooled in a 12 lbs. mono line. The overall performance was better than what I expected.
The reel casts like a charm and was super quiet. Since it is pretty light in weight and manageable as compared to other baitcasters, these are a great choice for anglers who want to try baitcasting for the first time. The model comes in three different gear ratios and hand orientations which you can choose as per your preference.
Despite all the great features, I found it incompatible with saltwater fishing. It is due to the absence of protected ball bearings and other mechanical parts. KastKing Kapstan Elite on the other hand is designed to work perfectly in saltwater without any damage.
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Extremely smooth operation
- Can be used by beginners
Cons
- Unsuitable for saltwater fishing
Verdict
As a true aluminum reel lover, I absolutely loved everything about this product. From high-end construction quality to max comfort and tremendous performance, this is indeed the best baitcasting reel for beginners.
9. Abu Garcia Revo X Fishing Reel – Best Value For Money
Specification
- Gear ratio: 6.6:1
- Max drag: 18 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.49 lbs.
Buying the best baitcaster for money under $200 is indeed a steal when you get superb performance. This round-profile baitcaster from Abu Garcia is an excellent choice. I built a setup using my Berkley Cherrywood HD rod having a 7’ length and came up with a powerful duo.
For the line, I opted for 20 lbs. braided line which offered great casting. However, as I replaced it with the 30 lbs. braided line, the casting distance was enhanced without compromising accuracy. With an 18 lbs. max drag, I could easily fight off 16 lbs. striped bass, 21” redfish, trout, and numerous largemouth bass.
The only drawback could be the lack of gear ratio options which could be a tradeoff for all the amazing features it offers. As long as this ratio enables you to perform your desired fishing technique, it offers unmatched performance.
Pros
- Superb line capacity
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Smooth hybrid drag
Cons
- No gear ratio options
Verdict
Low-profile baitcasters are best used for bass fishing and rightly so, I could catch numerous bass with this product. It is safe to call this high-quality reel with premium specs one of the best baitcasting reels under $200.
10. KastKing Crixus Fishing Reels – Best Budget Friendly
Specification
- Gear ratio: 6.5:1, 7.2:1
- Max drag: 17.6 lbs.
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 0.45 lbs.
Lowest in price but not short of features, the KastKing Crixus is a great choice for budget anglers. My friend has always used a spinning reel and wanted to upgrade to baitcasting hence, opted for this model. I matched it with the 5’6” Crixus rod with moderate action for my new angler friend. He experienced smooth performance with decent casting.
I also tried the 7.2:1 variant myself and coupled it with a 7’ rod. Furthermore, I used the 30 lbs. braided line for sinkers (4 oz) and there were no backlash issues. In addition to this, the magnetic braking system with appropriate adjustments further added to the backlash-free experience.
While fighting against larger species, I observed this reel making some noises. To prevent this, I lubed the mechanical parts of my baitcaster frequently and there was a noticeable reduction in the noise.
Pros
- Excellent overall performance
- Suitable for beginners
- High line capacity
- It has shielded ball bearings for saltwater fishing
Cons
- Sometimes noisy while reeling
Verdict
All in all, this model maintains the legacy of KastKing by providing an exceptional performance without costing an arm and a leg. For people, especially beginners who want one of the best budget friendly baitcaster under $200, the Crixus is an excellent choice. It is relatively less complicated to use and works in a variety of fishing environments to catch different species.
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Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best baitcaster under $200, looking for the following key considerations matters the most.
1. Gear Ratio of Baitcaster Under 200$:
Gear ratio is the main factor to consider as it dictates the number of revolutions a spool takes with one entire crank of the handle. That said, a higher gear ratio results in faster retrieval. The most widely used baitcaster gear ratio is 6.4:1. It means that the spool takes 6.4 turns when the handle completes its one crank.
Gear ratios lower than 6.4:1 have typically slower retrieve rates and require less effort to pull fishing baits like big swimbaits, deep crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Whereas, ratios greater than 6.4:1 are excellent for inshore and offshore fishing since these offer immense power and blazing-fast retrieve.
2. Braking System of Baitcaster Under 200$:
Baitcasters are susceptible to a common notorious characteristic i.e., backlash. It happens when the angler fails to cast at the right time which ends up slowing down the spool. Because of the slow spool speed, the line starts to accumulate at the reel’s opening near the feeding point.
Modern baitcasting reels come with two types of braking systems that prevent backlashes. First is centrifugal braking which uses a combination of pins to slow the spool speed. Whereas, the second one is the magnetic braking system which works on a principle of magnets for maintaining spool speed. Whichever system you choose, make sure it is adjustable.
3. Drag System of Baitcaster Under 200$:
Are you Imagining catching a big fish but having no power in the reel to fight it off and reel in? Nothing could be more upsetting than this. Therefore. To provide you with the desired power, these reels come with amazing drag systems offering varying max drag. Higher maximum drag works better for larger and hefty fish without breaking the line.
4. Durability of Baitcaster Under 200$:
One cannot overlook the factor of durability and comfort when it comes to buying the best baitcasting reels under $200. Durability depends on the materials used to construct the reel which includes aluminum and graphite.
Aluminum reels weigh slightly heavier than graphite ones however, offer impeccable durability and sturdiness. Graphite reels on the other hand are also quite durable but a little less than aluminum ones.
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FAQs
1. Are baitcasting reels easy to learn?
Unfortunately, baitcasting reels are not as easy to learn as spinning reels. The main reason is the backlash issues that new anglers cannot manage and hence require immense practice.
2. What is the best gear ratio for beginners?
Since baitcasters require skills, the best manageable gear ratio for newbies is between 5.4:1 to 6.2:1.
3. Are baitcasting reels and spinning reels the same?
No, both the reels have quite some differences. For example, unlike baitcasters, spinning reels are easier to use and have no backlash issues. Furthermore, these come with a fixed spool whereas the spool on baitcasting reels revolves while casting.
Conclusion
Finding the best baitcaster under $200 becomes hassle-free when you pay attention to the key factors. While the materials speak for durability, other features like braking system, max drag, line capacity, ball bearings, and gear ratio impact the overall performance.
After keeping all the aforementioned characteristics in mind, one product that I would call the best baitcaster under $200 is the SHIMANO SLX DC . Made out of aluminum, the reel is quite sturdy and offers efficient drag and braking with premium performance.
