10 Best Baitcasting Reels for Beginners 2024

Growing up watching my dad fish in different waters in California using a baitcaster was highly fascinating for me. I didn’t realize when I started to develop an interest in fishing so much that I wished to excel in it just like my dad. Now that I got my fishing license, I planned to learn how to use a baitcaster. I got my hands on some of the best baitcasting reels for beginners and tested them out. 

You can’t simply head to the market and purchase a random baitcaster, you must carefully look for the crucial specs. A good baitcasting reel for beginners should have decent gear ratios, ergonomic handling, lightweight, and a reasonable max drag. 

Keeping the important factors in mind and after experimenting on more than 15 gears, I have finally shortlisted 10 of them as the best baitcasters for beginners. Out of them, the top three all-time premium recommendations include Lew’s Speed Spool LFS, Abu Garcia Revo X, and Abu Garcia Silver Max.

To find out more about the top reviewed baitcasting reels, let’s read out the details. 

Quick Overview – Best Baitcasting Reels for Beginners

1. Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel – Best Bang For The Buck Baitcaster
2. Abu Garcia Revo X Low Profile – Best High-end Baitcaster For Beginners
3. Abu Garcia Black Max – Best Lightweight Baitcasting Reel 
4. Piscifun Alloy M Baitcasting Reels – Best Baitcasting Reel For The Price
5. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel – Best Inshore Baitcasting Reel 
6. Piscifun Chaos XS Round Reel – Best Conventional Baitcasting Reel 
7. Abu Garcia Silver Max – Best Backlash Free Baitcaster For Beginners
8. KastKing Crixus Baitcasting Reels – Best Kastking baitcaster For Beginners 
9. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Fishing Reel – Best Budget Baitcasting Reel 
10. KastKing Royale Legend II – Best Beginner Reel For Bass Fishing 

10 Best Baitcaster For Beginners in 2024

1. Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel – Best Bang For The Buck Baitcaster For Beginners

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 5.6:1, 6.8:1, 7.5:1
• Max drag: 15 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.

Lew’s has been a well-known brand for as long as I can remember and hence, its reels never disappoint the users. My experience with this baitcaster was absolutely amazing and worthwhile. The aluminum frame not only looked but felt sturdy as well. It is extremely light in weight and has a perfect size that fits in my small hands easily too. 

This being one of the best baitcasting reels for beginners was incredible when I used it for bass fishing. The feature that I would cherish the most is the magnetic braking system which kept me from continuous backlashes. What else does a beginner want? I tried this model with a 7.5:1 gear ratio with the right-hand orientation and trust me, it was one of the most comfortable reels I have ever used. 

The max drag of 15 lbs. allowed me to lure heavier fish. Another great feature worth mentioning is the P2 Super Pinion bearing which offers exceptional stability and alignment, everything that a beginner needs. This helps with a buttery smooth operation and extends the life of a reel. Furthermore, the double-shielded 10-ball bearing system prevented my reel from being corroded. 

Pros

• Fits an average hand perfectly
• Comfortable to use
• Minimal to no backlashing 

Cons

• Not suitable for saltwater fishing 

Verdict 

All in all, the Lew’s Speed Spool LFS is surely one of the best baitcasting reels under $100 for beginners. It not only offers high-end performance but convenience to use as well, thanks to the magnetic braking system, shielded bearing, and P2 Super Pinion. 

2. Abu Garcia Revo X Low Profile – Best High-End Baitcaster For Beginners

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 5.4:1, 6.6:1, 7.3:1 
• Max drag: 18 lbs. 
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.5 lbs.

This reel made it to the top three recommendations for all the right reasons. Light on hand but solid on fishing, the Abu Garcia Revo X is an extremely great choice. Because of its low profile, it became a user-friendly baitcasting reel for novices like me. In my field test, the overall performance of this baitcaster was hit because of how convenient it was to use. 

It comes in three different gear ratios and I chose the 6.6:1, it won’t be a lie if I said I experienced a super smooth and fast retrieve. Moreover, the magnetic braking system works impeccably to reduce the most common issue faced by every beginner i.e., backlash. This was a big difference that I noticed in this reel as compared to the others. 

As far as the hand orientation is concerned, I tried the right-handed model whereas, my fellow angler being a left-handed person tried the other. Luckily, we both were satisfied with the comfort, easy retrieval, and overall performance of this reel. The 8 stainless steel ball-bearing system and carbon matrix hybrid drag system further added to the sleek and smooth performance. 

Pros

• Corrosion-resistant frame
• Efficient gear system
• Incredibly smooth drag 

Cons

• Sideplate might get removed accidentally 

Verdict 

As a whole, this model from Abu Garcia lived up to my expectations, thanks to its fantastic features and performance. From smooth operation to a magnetic braking system and lightweight, I was able to pull walleye, steelhead, and trout effortlessly. It is safe to call this gear one of the best baitcasting reels for beginners.

3. Piscifun Alloy M Baitcasting Reels – Best Baitcasting Reel For The Price

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 6.3:1, 7.5:1, 8.4:1
• Max drag: 22 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.

The reel comes with multiple gear ratios and maximum drag with the extensive carbon drag washers. Thus, I was able to use it for different fishing styles. Its figurative carbon handles further helped in providing decent pull and comfort in use. It comes with a magnetic braking system that provides easy quick on-the-fly adjustments. 

With these adjustments, I was able to minimize the backlashes. The casting distance was also great however, as a beginner, I didn’t cast the reel much farther. Still, I was able to get some large fish such as steelhead, bigmouth bass, and even salmon.

If you are a right-handed person, this reel would be a good choice for you as it has a crank handle on the left side. This worked great for me to avoid switching again and again. Hence, with a one-time investment in this tool, I enjoyed fishing multiple times as compared to other plastic reels.

Pros

• Comfortable and smooth in working
• The cast is pretty good 
• Value for money

Cons

• Brakes are sometimes hard to adjust

Verdict 

According to my experience, the Piscifun Alloy reel proves to be an excellent baitcasting reel for beginners. From its oversized drag washers to brass gears, it has everything a top reel must-have. If you spend your money on it, I bet you will not regret even your single penny spent. 

4. KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel – Best Baitcasting Reel For Inshore Saltwater

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 3.6:1
• Max drag: 30 lbs. 
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 1.38 lbs.

Here is another best baitcasting reel for beginners on our list. I have used it to catch the biggest carp, catfish, and other saltwater sea animals and found it surprisingly good. The reel has a metal body with anodized red side plates that work in compliance with aluminum-made spools. I loved its design and color combination which is also impressive in operation. Its stainless steel ball bearings ensure a super-smooth operation. 

In terms of power, there is no match for the KastKing Rover Round reel. With the rover carbon fiber, it delivers top-class power. The oversized T handle is my favorite thing about its design which provides maximum non-slip grip while operating. 

I used it multiple times and the stainless steel worm shaft shows no sign of corrosion during this time. This means if you want to invest in something for future use, it will prove a reliable Baitcasting reel for you. Its audible line-out alarm, robust design, and flawless level wind are some other top features of this caster. 

Pros

• Amazing drag system
• Works great in freshwater and saltwater
• Double shielded ball bearings

Cons

• Heavier 
• Difficult to reassemble 

Verdict 

If you want something easy to use and also affordable in price, this would be a good choice for you. I personally tested it along with my family and the experience is just amazing. You will find it best suited for saltwater species especially. 

5. Piscifun Chaos XS Round Reel – Best Conventional Baitcasting Reel 

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 5.3:1 
• Max drag: 20 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous
• Weight: 0.77 lbs.

With Piscifun chaos XS you will get a gear ratio of 5.3:1. Which means that in every 360 turns of the handle, the spool rotates 6.3 times. It assures a smooth retrieve and a steady line lay. I found the drag system on this reel incredibly robust. With the Japanese Haimai-Cut brass gear, it offers a maximum drag of 20 lbs. 

The power is quite sufficient to grab even the biggest fish effortlessly which is why I was able to catch bass, musky, catfish, and more easily. As most of the casters are comfortable using a left-hand cast, this reel comes with ambidextrous hand operation. That said, it fitted my hand properly and I could use it with a full grip. Hence, proved a better option for beginners especially.

Weight is the thing everyone looks at in a reel. The lightweight yet durable design of this reel helped me enjoy the fishing game to the fullest. I found this reel quite comfortable and sturdy in performance every time I used it for family fishing activities.

Pros

• Works great for large fish
• Durable quality
• Smooth consistent drag

Cons

• Slippery brakes

Verdict 

There are many baitcasters in the market, but choosing the best round baitcasting reels for beginners that match your style and budget is not that easy. With Piscifun Chaos XS in your hand, what else do you need? It comes with a lot of exciting features that make fishing fun for you and your family.

6. Abu Garcia Silver Max – Best Backlash Free Baitcaster For Beginners

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 6.4:1
• Max drag: 18 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.63 pounds

After hearing numerous reviews about Abu Garcia Silver Max, it was hard to resist trying this out. However, I am absolutely glad that I tried this one out. This model has so much in common with its fellow Bmax model. Both come with a 6.4:1 gear ratio which is pretty sufficient for beginners.

I loved how the anti-backlash and magnetic braking system operated so well and saved me from recurring backlashes. Because of this, I could focus more on fishing rather than dealing with the backlashes. This reel is integrated with a unique rocket clutch feature through which I was able to engage and disengage the spool with one hand only. 

As compared to the Bmax model, it has one extra ball bearing, making a total of 6 stainless steel ball bearings. As one of the best baitcasting reels for beginners, this model holds a sweet spot for all trainee anglers because of its low profile. Moreover, the Abu Garcia Silver Max helped me catch fish like catfish and striped bass. 

Pros

• Great value for money 
• Great casting distance
• Admirably smooth retrieve 

Cons

• Less durable 

Verdict 

For beginners, this model offers great features such as a decent gear ratio, magnetic braking system, smooth operation, and more. Considering its features, this one is indeed the best anti-backlash baitcasting reel for beginners. 

6. KastKing Crixus Baitcasting Reels – Best Kastking Baitcaster For Beginners

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 6.5:1, 7.2:1
• Max drag: 17.65 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.

KastKing has never disappointed its customers in terms of fishing gear. Crixus is one of their top-class baitcasting reel that makes you fish like a gladiator. In quality and durability, I found this reel unmatchable. I found it fantastic in many ways. 

Despite the lightweight nature of the reel, it is quite durable and tough as its name suggests. This means you can enjoy fishing with your family for years with this great tool. The heavy-duty brass gears provide two options for gear ratio depending upon the user’s preference. With the long and easily lifted handle, I could use it without any slip and got a great grab on even the big bass and catfish.

The ball bearings are made of high-quality stainless steel and are shielded as well. This resulted in ultra-smooth operation and a tough finish to the reel. Furthermore, the drag is adjustable with the compact but lightweight drag knob. For all these features, it proves to be one of the best baitcasting reels for beginners as it is affordable, easy to use, and durable in build. 

Pros

• Reasonable
• High-quality ball bearings
• Buttery smooth retrieve

Cons

• Weird noise while reeling

Verdict 

In my experience, this reel is designed equally for weak anglers and noobs with its exceptional value. Don’t judge it by its low price. It provides all the perks of having a flawless baitcaster. I liked its all-in-one design both in terms of performance and looks as well.

8. Abu Garcia Black Max – Best Lightweight Baitcasting Reel

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 6.4:1
• Max drag: 18 lbs. 
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.

How can a list of the best baitcasting reels for beginners be complete without Abu Garcia? This Black Max is one of my favorite reel for fishing. It proves to be the best not only for beginners but also for expert anglers in the town. Drag power is what makes a baitcasting reel a pro or a fail. 

Just like most of the reels on our list, Abu Garcia Black Max has an ambidextrous hand operation. In the beginning, I faced some backlash issues but with time and practice, I got a hold over it. Moreover, I decided to switch to a braided line and there was no turning back. It helped me achieve a better casting distance and resulted in overall enhanced casting performance. 

If you prefer lightweight reels that are easy to carry and operate, this once could be it. I found it pretty convenient and its massive gear ratio is beyond impressive. The gears are made of brass which makes them durable and robust in design. Thus, you can use them for years without getting damaged.

Pros

• Value for money 
• Light and compact design 
• Great for heavy fish

Cons

• Need the practice to operate 

Verdict 

There are many features of this reel that are my favorite. But its stylish design and high-power drag system are the top ones. This can be the best baitcasting reel for beginners and a great help to learn its basics and enjoy the whole experience as well. 

9. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Fishing Reel – Best Budget Baitcasting Reel

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 5.3:1, 7.1:1 
• Max drag: 18 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.5 lbs. 

Piscifun is known for its high-quality and consumer-friendly stuff, the Torrent reel is one of them. If you are a beginner, it would help you get into the expert fishing game. This low-profile reel is physically powerful and can handle numerous heavy fishes as well. 

Moreover, my experience of using this baitcaster in the saltwater of California was pretty amazing. The stainless steel bearing didn’t corrode at all. I also took good care of the reel by rinsing it with freshwater after use and adding sufficient lube to preserve its smoothness. 

As far as the backlash and bird’s nest is concerned, I feel lucky to not experience it. No backlashing is because of the magnetic braking system. The 18 lbs. max drag makes the baitcaster capable of luring heavy fishes. I used it for catching pike, salmon, bass, and trout, needless to say, I didn’t encounter any issues at all. 

Pros

• Great for big catches
• Excellent performance
• Easy maintenance 

Cons

• Bearings can corrode if not taken care of properly 

Verdict 

Overall, the Piscifun Torrent is among the favorite baitcasting reel for beginners because of its decent performance, especially at a pretty low price point.

10. KastKing Royale Legend II – Best Beginner Reel For Bass Fishing 

Specifications

• Gear ratio: 5.4:1, 7.2:1
• Max drag:  17.64 lbs.
• Hand orientation: Ambidextrous 
• Weight: 0.45 lbs. 

Royale Legend II is for those who are looking for the perfect bass fishing reel on a small budget. It has all those features a beginner would need to learn fishing. One thing I liked most about it is its adjustable 8 magnetic buttons brake system. The Royale Legend II is equipped with 4 disc carbon fiber drag washers. These provide excessive drag power of 17.6 lbs. 

This much power is sufficient for smooth and powerful fishing performance. It comes in two gear options which are 5.4:1 and a 7.2:1 ratio. The first one is best suited for slower presentations and crankbaits. I tried the 7.2:1 which was great for burning baits and pitching jigs to catch bigmouth bass and the reel performed outstandingly. 

Like its other top-notch features, this reel comes with both hand orientation options. I love this feature as you can switch between right and left-handed orientations. The CNC machine-operated aluminum spool added more to the looks of this reel. Both of these options improved its overall smooth and efficient working.

Pros

• Good control in windy conditions.
• Cheapest on the list
• Able to lure heavy fish

Cons

• Grinding noise after some use

Verdict 

If you are looking for the best baitcasting reels for beginners that are all-rounder in terms of performance and price, this one is undoubtedly for you! It is a budget-friendly tool made especially for noobs. The reason is its comfortable and robust design with excellent performance all in one.

Buying Guide – Best Baitcasting Reels for Beginners

If you don’t know how the baitcaster works, it would be quite challenging to find the best baitcasting reels for beginners as well. Therefore, to help you understand the working of a baitcaster, I have explained some important factors of a baitcaster in the following buying guide. Let’s check it out. 

1. Low Profile or Round Profile

Low-profile baitcasters are extremely ergonomic and are suggested for beginners. It has a smaller build and fits an average hand contour easily, making it a user-friendly baitcasting reel. Anglers usually target small and light fish to practice on and that is what the low-profile baitcasters are for. 

Contrarily, the round profile reels have a relatively big and heavy build. That said, these have the capacity to hold heavier lines. Because of their size, rounded reels are the best fit for professional anglers who can handle complicated and heavier fish. 

2. Frame Material 

The durability of a baitcasting reel depends on its frame material. These reels are available in two different materials i.e., graphite and aluminum. Depending on the material you choose, the price will vary. For example, graphite is less sturdy and can get damaged therefore, is inexpensive. On the other hand, aluminum being robust and able to withstand rough use is much pricier. 

Most professionals would opt for a top-notch frame material i.e., aluminum because of its regular and harsh use. Whereas, for beginners, it is advised to practice on a cheaper alternative which is graphite. 

3. Gear Ratio

Baitcaster Gear ratio plays an integral role in the overall performance of the reel. These work by determining the number of times a rotor takes a turn around the spool from 1 complete crank of the handle. 

Generally, the 6.4:1 gear ratio is considered a medium choice that is also able to tackle different situations. But, as a beginner, you must look for a baitcasting reel offering a gear ratio in the range of 5.4:1 to 6.2:1. 

4. Backlash 

Backlash and bird’s nest are two terms associated with each other and are common problems that new anglers encounter. It usually occurs when the spool stays the same but the lure slows down right after you cast the reel. As a result, the line becomes a tangled mess which is known as a bird’s nest. 

Beginners are highly prone to experience bird’s nests quite frequently while casting which becomes a major turn-off for them. However, practicing on short distances is best suggested for novices to get a grip on the baitcaster and get rid of backlashes. You can learn more about preventing backlash as a beginner through this informative video:

The recent models of baitcasting reels come with anti-backlash systems which you can also opt for.

5. Braking System

With the developing technology, the issue of backlashing is being reduced, thanks to braking systems. Several new models of baitcaster reels are integrated with advanced braking systems. These work by slowing down the spool while you cast because during a backlash, the lure slows down but the spool doesn’t.

There are different types of braking systems out of which the two most common ones include: 

• Centrifugal braking system: It works through friction and can be adjusted by pushing the pins externally. 
• Magnetic braking system: It comes with magnets that slow down the spool. 

You can adjust this braking system yourself as well. For beginners, a magnetic braking system is preferred. This is because it holds back the spool, slows it down, and restrains it from taking over the lure, resulting in reduced bird’s nests. 

6. Ball Bearings

A lot of people have a misconception that more ball bearings mean better performance. However, when it comes to ball bearings, quality overtakes quantity. Unsurprisingly, some top manufacturers use lesser ball bearings in their baitcasters but they do not compromise on the quality. Whereas, some cheaper models come with a larger number of ball bearings (up to 12) but fail to work efficiently due to poor quality. 

Since you can’t judge the quality unless you use a baitcaster yourself, here is an easy way to determine it. Ball bearings come in the following different materials: 

6.1. Stainless steel

These ball bearings are extensively common in baitcasters and are recommended for entry-level anglers. While stainless steel ball bearings are less reliable, they still work decently for beginners. New anglers need something less expensive to practice on hence, these are best suited for them. 

It would be best if you get your hands on shielded stainless steel ball bearings. Since those not shielded are more likely to corrode after multiple uses, don’t forget to wash and lubricate them properly to maintain their smoothness. 

6.2. Ceramic: 

Whereas, ball bearings made out of ceramic material possess high durability and hence are pricey. These come in two variants i.e., made out of full ceramic or only coated with ceramic to protect the inner material. Either way, the bearings work impeccably even in saltwater and are not prone to corrosion. 

Usually, baitcasters with around 4 to 5 ball bearings are enough for the new anglers. This number count of ball bearings provides the users with a reasonable level of friction for a good fishing experience. However, the bearings must be of good quality so that the smoothness isn’t jeopardized. 

7. Hand Orientation

While many new anglers might overlook this factor, it can bring misery to you if not considered beforehand. The majority of the baitcaster manufacturers roll out models in both left-handed and right-handed orientations. 

So, make sure to choose the appropriate hand orientation according to your hand domination. As a newbie, you must hold your desired baitcaster in hand and check if it’s comfortable and usable from that particular side. 

Related Guides:

• 10 Best Saltwater Baitcasting Reel 2024
• Baitcasting Reel Parts – A Detailed Guide
• Best Baitcaster Combo Under $100
• Best Spincast Reels
• Best Spincast Rod and Reel Combo

FAQs – Best Baitcaster for Beginners

1. Can beginners learn on baitcasting reels?

While baitcasting reels are relatively complicated to use for beginners, they can still learn on them. The key to success, in that case, would be opting for a baitcaster that comes with user-friendly specs such as best anti-backlash system, advanced braking system, etc. 

2. What are the advantages of using a baitcaster?

The foremost advantage of baitcaster reels over other reels is the longer casting distance that too, with high accuracy. Moreover, these are a perfect choice for heavier lures, have bigger line capacity, durable yet light in weight. 

3. Is it okay to use a cheaper reel as a beginner?

Cheap doesn’t necessarily mean poor quality. You must look for a good quality baitcasting reel even when you are low on a budget. There are several baitcasters in the market that come at a pocket-friendly price point and are not made of inferior materials. 

4. What if my baitcasting reel jam?

Baitcasters are prone to jamming because of corroded or rusty ball bearings. This happens when you use your reel in saltwater and don’t rinse it off with freshwater after use. 

To avoid your reel from jams, make sure to clean and lube your reel well after every use even in freshwaters. You can also prevent this in the long term by purchasing one crafted out of corrosion-resistant materials or having shielded ball bearings. We recommend using best baitcaster oil.

Conclusion 

Buying the best baitcasting reels for beginners is quite an overwhelming yet intimidating task. Because of the technical specs, an angler can get confused among various products. That is why I tried some baitcasters on my own to provide the ones new to this field with a well-researched and detailed guide. According to my testing, I found the Abu Garcia Revo X Low Profile as best baitcasting reels for beginners, and one of most incredible and top-notch baitcaster of all time. 

I hope that you are by now much aware of the important factors and how baitcasters work. Make sure to do a thorough search in the market and choose your best match with due care. Good luck and happy fishing!