A Bit About Baitcasting Reels
If you are interested in bass fishing or any other type of freshwater fishing that demands the ability to cast accurately and retrieve a lure or bait quickly, a baitcasting reel might be for you. To be sure, compared to spinning reels which a novice can master fairly quickly, baitcasting reels have a steeper learning curve; but once you have developed an “educated thumb” you will be able to cast and drop that lure or bait precisely where you want it.
Baitcasting reels are descended from their bigger, brawnier conventional reel cousins. The difference is that baitcasting reels, compared to conventional reels, feature a small, compact design. Most baitcasting reels have a star drag system and a level wind mechanism. Compared to spinning reels in the same line class, many baitcasting reels offer a faster, more powerful retrieve. When shopping for a baitcasting reel, look for a centrifugal braking system to reduce the chance of a backlash. Also take note of the number of ball bearings, since more ball bearings means better reel performance. While baitcasting reels are mainly associated with freshwater fishing, certain models are preferred by anglers for inshore, saltwater use.
West Marine offers baitcasting reels by Abu Garcia, Daiwa, Okuma and Shimano.
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