Baitcasting reels are one of the favorite fishing arsenals for expert anglers. Most expensive baitcaster reels come with advanced technologies. The high-end features make these choices quite pricey.
Expert anglers never settle for less and always want the absolute best that comes with a hefty price tag. The best ones are also the most expensive baitcasting reels designed to deliver unparalleled performance.
Major companies such as Daiwa, Shimano, Abu Garcia, etc. are renowned for their incredible baitcasting reels. While you can find low-budget models as well, those won’t match the performance offered by the premium ones.
The most expensive baitcaster ever sold was “The Holy Grail” auctioned for £58000 in London in 2011. It was built by Graham Turner. However, in this guide we have listed down the most expensive baitcasting reels which are currently available in the market.
- 20 Most Expensive Baitcaster Reels
- 20. Abu Garcia Ambassador 6500CS – Best Expensive Versatile Baitcaster
- 19. Daiwa Steez A TW – Expensive Baitcaster For Heavy Lures
- 18. Shimano Metanium MGL – Expensive Baitcaster For Lighter Lures
- 17. Shimano Calcutta Conquest 201HG – Most Expensive Shimano Baitcaster For Saltwater
- 16. Shimano Exsence DC Reel – Best All-Around Shimano Baitcaster
- 15. Daiwa 16 ALPHAS AIR 5.8L – Best Daiwa Baitcaster For Finesse Fishing
- 14. Daiwa Ryoga 1520CC – Best Round-Profile Saltwater Baitcaster
- 13. Shimano Calcutta Conquest 300-400 Most Expensive Shimano Round-Profile Baitcasting Reel
- 12. Shimano Tranx 500 – Best High End Baitcasting Reel For Large Fish
- 11. Shimano Antares A – Best Shimano Baitcaster For Casting Distances
- 10. Daiwa Ryoga Shrapnel C3000HL – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Frogging
- 9. LARIAU Air Spool Reel – Best Baitcaster For Big Fish
- 8. Daiwa CT SV TW – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Finesse Fishing
- 7. Daiwa IM Z LIMITBREAKER – Most Expensive Bass Baitcaster
- 6. Daiwa Steez CT SV TW 70HL – Best Baitcaster For Ultra-Light Performing
- 5. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Morrum ZX – Best All Purpose Abu Garcia Baitcaster
- 4. Water Drop Fishing Reel – Best Expensive Freshwater Baitcaster
- 3. Shimano TALICA 20II – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Offshore Fishing
- 2. Shimano 16 Antares DC HG Right Most Expensive Shimano Baitcaster
- 1. Seaborg Fishing Reel – World Most Expensive Baitcaster
- Related Guides
- FAQs
- Conclusion
- Recent Articles
20 Most Expensive Baitcaster Reels
Here is a breakdown of the most expensive baitcasting reels. Let’s find out if these are actually worth your money or not. We have listed baitcasters in an ascending order i.e less expensive to the world most expensive baitcaster.
20. Abu Garcia Ambassador 6500CS – Best Expensive Versatile Baitcaster
Price: $259
When it comes to the most expensive baitcasting reels with versatile performance, Abu Garcia 6500 is a great choice. The model is made in Japan and imported to the USA and other countries hence, quite expensive.
What else adds to its price is the Bakelite 2-point centrifugal brakes. Even though it uses an old mechanism for brakes, the users can achieve fantastic casting distances with various lures.
The baitcasting reel has a maximum drag power of 7 lbs. That said, you can reel in a couple of medium to giant catfish size species. For that you have to use it with a powerful line. Being manufactured in Japan, it is not easy to find elsewhere.
19. Daiwa Steez A TW – Expensive Baitcaster For Heavy Lures
Price: $320
Despite being the least pricey reel on our list, it has most of the features an angler looks for. From construction to features, it never disappoints its users for the price. Made to withstand saltwater currents, Daiwa Steez A TW is one of the best saltwater baitcaster and suitable for inshore fishing applications.
It comes with Daiwa’s specialized MagForce Z system found in some top-tier models are well. That said, it delivers impeccable casting distances. The reel doesn’t cast well with lighter lures and baits. However, it works flawlessly with medium to heavy lures. As the amount of input increases, the farther the lure casts.
The reel lack a clicking alert for the drag going out which can confuse the anglers. This is the main reason for the lesser price and holds many pros back. Overall, it is indeed a great hit for casual fishing with medium to heavy baits.
18. Shimano Metanium MGL – Expensive Baitcaster For Lighter Lures
Price: $320
Unlike the Daiwa Steez, the Shimano Metanium is the Best Baitcaster For Light Lures. The real sauce behind the Metanium baitcaster includes the SVS Infinity cast control system and Magnumlite Spool.
Anglers enjoy tremendous castability with accuracy and precision using lighter baits. Compared to the older Shimano models, this baitcaster increases the casting accuracy by 20%. If you are looking for a capable reel for fishing tournaments, this one will work for numerous fishing techniques.
While you can use the Metanium reel in saltwater, it needs appropriate rinsing and oiling after every use. Despite the magnesium body, the reel won’t be able to prevent corrosion if not washed. It is because the reel lacks a protective coating.
All in all, the Metanium reel is Shimano’s one of the greatest inventions. It makes sure to offer easy manageability with precise casts at longer distances which makes it one of the best baitcaster for beginners. Be it your casual fishing or a competition, you can rely on this baitcaster for sure.
17. Shimano Calcutta Conquest 201HG – Most Expensive Shimano Baitcaster For Saltwater
Price: $460
The 2021 edition of the Conquest line is the Calcutta 201HG. Unlike the Calcutta Conquest 300 and 400, this model has a slightly reduced max drag of 13 lbs. The sizes 300 and 400 offer 15 lbs. of max poundage.
When using bigger baits, you will get a handful of lines to use with is quite impressive. It is not a challenge for this reel to manage big-duty baits. You can enhance the power with a heavy-duty casting Kistler KLX7107XXH rod.
The reel is quite bulky but provides all the power required for bass fishing like a pro. While disengaging level wind is responsible for greater casting distances, these suit larger-sized reels such as Calcutta 300 and 400. For a 200-size reel, larger casting distances on a relatively narrower spool are an overkill.
Just like the 300 and 400 models, this one can also be used for saltwater applications, thanks to the anti-rust ball bearings.
16. Shimano Exsence DC Reel – Best All-Around Shimano Baitcaster
Price: $475
After the discontinuation of the Shimano Chronarch D, anglers were in search of a similar reel with an aluminum platform. Be it bass or any other specie, this reel has the right features to manage them all. Unfortunately, this mode is available in Japan only and comes in a single retrieve ratio.
The newer model is a lot more dependable, has a smoother drag, and ensures amazing castability. Enjoy this baitcaster with a wide range of baits with equally impressive casting.
The key feature that adds to the overall performance and price of the baitcaster is its i-DC (Intelligent Digital Control) braking technology. The modes include SP, BB, F, and Standard. These allow the reel to work for specific purposes such as for big baits, with braided or fluoro lines only, etc.
15. Daiwa 16 ALPHAS AIR 5.8L – Best Daiwa Baitcaster For Finesse Fishing
Price: $478
Daiwa has some incredible round-profile baitcasting reels and anglers are well aware of that. The manufacturers have been quite considerate of the users and hence use corrosion-resistant ball bearings in their reels.
That said, be it freshwater or the rigors of saltwater, the reel manages it all with ease. When paired with the right rod, you will get the most expensive baitcaster combo.
Speaking of the drag, the 8.8 lbs. of max is quite enough for bait finesse fishing. Since this reel is not made in the USA, it can be difficult to source it.
14. Daiwa Ryoga 1520CC – Best Round-Profile Saltwater Baitcaster
Price: $587
The Daiwa Ryoga makes a stealthy baitcasting reel for everything except finesse fishing. Pair it with anything such as big swimbaits, deep diving crankbaits, etc. to have an amazing fishing experience. The Ryoga is best used for inshore saltwater fishing applications and fighting against species that challenge the reel’s strength.
Compared to the other Shimano Calcutta Conquest, this one has quite a similar power-packed performance. However, this one comes as a little lighter hence is a lot easier on the hands during prolonged sessions.
In our experience, the Daiwa Ryoga was an incredible performer and helped reel in numerous mighty fish. While the overall reel is great with a solid construction, its drag lacks an oomph. In comparison, the Shimano Calcutta Conquest has an impeccable drag with easy adjustments.
13. Shimano Calcutta Conquest 300-400 Most Expensive Shimano Round-Profile Baitcasting Reel
Price: $599.99
The Shimano Calcutta Conquest comes in various sizes such as 300 and 400 to tackle a wide range of species, and one of the best round baitcaster. These reels are built stronger and larger hence, last long and load more amount of line than a low-profile reel.
Use the high-resistant baits for a variety of fishing techniques with this reel. It casts crank baits, chatter baits, spin baits, etc. a country mile. Be it freshwater or saltwater applications, the Calcutta Conquest won’t cause any trouble.
Many anglers would expect a reel this pricey to be at least sealed for saltwater but it isn’t. According to some experiences, it works in saltwater but can build rust and corrode if not taken care of properly.
12. Shimano Tranx 500 – Best High End Baitcasting Reel For Large Fish
Price: $632
The Shimano Tranx 500 hooks the anglers who prefer catching larger species. Boasting a revolutionary design, the reel is quite compact and light in weight. The standout feature of this reel that makes hit cross the $500 mark is its power.
While enjoying the comfort of a low-profile baitcaster, it gives you the strength for conventional-like fishing. Looking for a competent reel to provide sufficient drag for stripers, tuna, pike, grouper, redfish, and the like? If so, the Tranx 500 would be ideal.
The Tranx 400 is the predecessor model of the Tranx 500. The older version had some issues with the levelwind and drag system which are resolved in the newer one. Hence, the price difference.
This baitcaster comes in two variants i.e., 500PG and 500HG. The PG delivers 30 inches of the line per crank whereas, the HG gives an amazing 43 inches of line per crank. Designed for hefty fishing applications in saltwater, this reel doesn’t seem to have any cons except for its price.
11. Shimano Antares A – Best Shimano Baitcaster For Casting Distances
Price: $649.99
The Antares A reel from Shimano comes as one of the best high end baitcaster reels. If you are an enthusiast who not only fish for themselves but participates in various contests, this baitcaster is for you.
It knows how to manage and casts lures of varying weights and sizes, offering a versatile performance. To further enhance this, the company uses MGL Spool III which reduces the spool inertia to a great extent. That said, anglers enjoy perfect precision while casting light and heavy baits.
With the solid construction quality, you will get the convenience of using this baitcasting reel in freshwater and saltwater. This is one of the very few Shimano reels that have a drag sound to determine when the fish takes the line.
Overall, the Shimano Antares A is among the top performers. However, many anglers believe the Chronarch MGL and Curado DC deliver identical performance at a significantly low price point.
10. Daiwa Ryoga Shrapnel C3000HL – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Frogging
Price: $669
Another Japanese model from Daiwa is the Ryoga Shrapnel baitcaster. Do you love frogging? Grab this reel and enjoy one of the most amazing experiences. With bigger baits, this reel can also manage to catch bass fish for you.
Though it is designed to throw frogs at great distances with high accuracy, you can also use it for other techniques. The best lures to use with this reel include topwater frogs or big baits. The baitcaster might not work with its maximum potential for finesse fishing unless you are incredibly expert at it.
From smooth drag to the efficient brake system and solid construction to saltwater application, it has everything that an expensive reel should. The 2-point centrifugal braking system could be hard to adjust for people with little experience.
9. LARIAU Air Spool Reel – Best Baitcaster For Big Fish
Price: $675
This is one of the most expensive baitcaster reels that works great with fake baits of different sizes. Available in 8.6:1 gear ratio, this gear can manage a variety of loads without any inconvenience.
Speaking of the drag power, it seems a bit less compared to the other pricey alternatives. The baitcaster promises the max poundage it can manage is 7.7 lbs. Though it will help to reel in a couple of basses, trout, salmon, etc. Despite having a greater baitcaster gear ratio, it might not efficiently pull the species due to less drag power.
Considering the features, you can find numerous alternative reels for this one at a relatively lower price range. However, some reels priced lesser than or equal to this model have a lot more advanced technologies.
8. Daiwa CT SV TW – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Finesse Fishing
Price: $689
The reel might seem small but is hefty with the performance. It is loaded with superb technologies, making it one of the finest models from Daiwa. This model was rolled out in 2019 and has been the favorite among expert anglers.
Its CT i.e., compact and tough feature along with numerous others adds to its performance. The CT SV TW is a next-generation model from the Steez lineup with improved features hence, quite expensive.
Anglers love opting for this reel to enjoy finesse fishing using light lures. As a result, this baitcaster casts incredibly far with great accuracy. Considering the smoothness, lightweight, and performance, the Daiwa CT SV TW can be a great companion during finesse fishing contests.
7. Daiwa IM Z LIMITBREAKER – Most Expensive Bass Baitcaster
Price: $725
Lightweight, progressive, capable, small, and expensive. These are some of the adjectives that come to one’s mind upon hearing “Daiwa”. The company has gained a great reputation among bass anglers for various reasons. The Daiwa Z elaborates why is it so.
This incredibly pricey low-profile baitcaster is capable of tossing big baits without any issues. Unfortunately, it cannot stand saltwater conditions and might ruin the mechanical parts if used in it.
With a price this high, a lot of anglers would expect it to have a large line capacity which it doesn’t. As far as the ergonomics and applications are concerned, it still wins as a competent baitcaster for bass fishing.
6. Daiwa Steez CT SV TW 70HL – Best Baitcaster For Ultra-Light Performing
Price: $733
It is a newer model of the Daiwa Steez CT lineup with various improvements. In comparison to the CT SV TW, this model comes with a clicking drag. It helps the anglers to determine when the fish is taking the line.
Speaking of the line capacity, the SV TW has a relatively larger spool. Just like the CT SV TW, it can cater to the needs of finesse anglers. From light to ultralight lures and fishing applications, this model offers unmatched performance.
The integration of Daiwa’s exclusive Hyper Drive Design ensures a buttery smooth yet powerful performance. Its incredible features and working make it an extremely pricey choice but, worthy of each penny.
5. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Morrum ZX – Best All Purpose Abu Garcia Baitcaster
Price: $1,002
Abu Garcia’s most expensive baitcaster reel in the round profile is the Ambassadeur Morrum ZX. It is incredibly versatile and one of the best Abu Garcia baitcaster packed with a wide range of impressive features, making it an expensive choice.
The majority of the round profile baitcasting reels come with a larger spool and line capacity. However, the Ambassadeur Morrum ZX differs here. While it can be used for a baseball size fish as well as a mighty pike, the only issue is the limited line capacity.
If you pair it with a robust line with solid strength, the reel will fight against hefty species flawlessly. A feature that adds to its price is the advanced IVCB-4 brakes that improve the overall castability.
4. Water Drop Fishing Reel – Best Expensive Freshwater Baitcaster
Price: $1,046
From looking good to performing great, the Water Drop Fishing reel is superb reel. It is one of the most expensive fishing reels that one could have for all the right reasons. The company has constructed it lightweight and palmable.
The comfortable hold allows you a better and more precise casting. It works like a dream for big fish without breaking the line. Even though the reel comes with anti-rust mechanical parts, its longevity is adversely affected when used in saltwater frequently.
Featuring an outstanding feature i.e., slow shaking iron plate, the line slides out smoothly from the reel. This feature ensures guaranteed stability regardless of the fish size you are fighting, adding significantly to its price.
3. Shimano TALICA 20II – Most Expensive Baitcaster For Offshore Fishing
Have you ever seen a power-to-size ratio in a round-profile baitcaster? Well, you will now with the Shimano Talica 20II. When using light lures, there is no resistance at all, thanks to the free spool with no tension.
Unlike most of the round reels discussed till now, this one is an offshore specialist. Choose between the 11 different sizes and get the best results for your desired fishing technique and species.
With an impeccable 60 lbs. of max drag, this baitcaster is probably the most powerful by far. The fast cranking and impressive casting further enhance the overall experience. Also, it is saltwater-friendly so, you won’t have to worry about corrosion.
2. Shimano 16 Antares DC HG Right Most Expensive Shimano Baitcaster
Price: $1,240
Over half a decade old but the Antares DC is still widely used among anglers. Also, it is the most expensive Shimano baitcaster to date. It belongs to Shimano’s DC family where all the baitcasters house an Intelligent Digital Control (I-DC) braking system.
It is a doppelganger of Shimano’s primitive Antares model rolled out back in 2014. However, that was also one of the most expensive baitcaster reels by the company despite being a non-DC reel. The 16 Antares version is a lot more improvised for better manageability, castability, and overall performance.
At such a hefty price point, anglers would expect the reel to be saltwater-friendly. Unfortunately, the Shimano 16 Antares is strictly a freshwater reel. Since this model is imported from Japan, it causes a hike in price too.
1. Seaborg Fishing Reel – World Most Expensive Baitcaster
Price: $1699
It is one of the world’s most expensive baitcasting reels that an angler can own. It is the state of an art invention and hence the most expensive baitcast reel from Daiwa. Primarily the gear is designed for snapper and grouper fishing.
The Seaborg Fishing Reel is probably the smallest baitcaster with an insane amount of power. The manufacturers have integrated it with an LCD that makes functions a lot clearer. As far as the drag power is concerned, you would be amazed to know that it can manage a whopping 51 lbs.
Not to forget the 21 Magsealed Ball Bearings ensure an exceptionally long lifetime. Made in 2016, the reel is still winning anglers’ hearts. Its great power, technology, and import from Japan make it the priciest of them all.
Related Guides
FAQs
1. What is the best baitcasting reel for the money?
In our experience, the most impressive baitcaster for the value is Daiwa CT SV TW. Though expensive but relatively lesser than its competitors, this is the best model from the Steez lineup. It is best used for finesse fishing.
2. What is the most expensive baitcaster rod?
Priced over $10,000, Hermès fishing rods are the priciest casting rods one can find in the market. The designer rods are not only extraordinary in price but performance as well.
Conclusion
Purchasing the most expensive baitcasting reel can be a lifetime investment if done right. There are numerous choices however, one that fits your needs will be worth each penny. According to our research, the Seaborg Fishing Reel is the world’s most expensive baitcaster and the priciest on the list right now. No matter whichever baitcasting reel you choose, always check if it fits your fishing criteria or not.
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