What Casting Reels are Best for Bass?

Get the maximum casting distance, accuracy and control when chasing giant bass with expert picks and suggestions for low-profile bass baitcasting reels.

What Casting Reels are Best for Bass?

Those who fish where the biggest bass roam should have a baitcasting reel along for the ride. Bass casting reels allow experienced anglers to cast farther and more accurately than spinning reels. The spool design also gives you more line control and cranking power.

A casting reel holds bigger lures and terminal tackle, letting you go after trophy largemouth and smallmouth. Our guide to bass baitcasters has everything you need to know about selecting a reel and some favorites chosen by the TackleDirect staff.

What to Look for in Bass Casting Reels

The gear ratio in a bass baitcasting reel is crucial to success. A low ratio of around 5.0:1 has the strength needed for giant bass and fishing deep running crankbaits. Ratios in the 6.0:1 range usually mean a good all-around reel with a solid speed-to-torque ratio. A 7.0:1 ratio or higher is ultra-fast and works best with topwater lures and techniques where quickly picking up slack line is key.

We strongly encourage a low-profile bass casting reel. Though they don't hold quite as much line as a standard round reel, low-profile reels are lighter, more ergonomic and allow more wrist action. The reel should also have a good braking system to control spool rotation and prevent backlash. Finally, make sure the reel is well-constructed and has good sealing — especially if you're fishing in corrosive saltwater.

Top 5 Best Baitcast Reels

Shimano SLX A Reel
from TD Pro Staffer, Nicholas Dellaporta (IG: nicholas.dellaporta)

SHIMANO SLX A

The Shimano SLX A Baitcasting Reels are a versatile, high-performing, and cost-effective option for both casual and professional anglers, offering a durable and compact design with the metal Hagane Body providing superior strength and impact resistance while eliminating reel flex for better power transmission. The Shimano SLX reels also come in three gear ratios, allowing you to customize your craft to your desired speed and technique. These reels will be a staple in your bass fishing collection for years to come.

Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Reel

ABU GARCIA MAX PRO

Those just learning how to use a baitcasting reel will appreciate this simple and affordable option. The Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Reel has everything anglers need for freshwater applications, including a durable machined aluminum spool, proprietary drag and braking systems and seven stainless steel ball bearings. The Max Pro reels will not let you down when you're looking for the perfect bass fishing baitcaster.

Daiwa Tatula 100 Casting Reel

DAIWA TATULA 100

This freshwater baitcaster has many of the same features as Daiwa high-performance reels without breaking the bank. The Daiwa Tatula 100 is one of the lightest and smallest bass reels in its class for long days on the water. It features the T-Wing line guide system that allows a larger casting area with a braided line. This compact baitcaster fits perfectly into small hands but is very comfortable for larger hands as well. 

Shimano Curado K Casting Reel

SHIMANO CURADO K

While the entire Shimano Curado lineup is excellent for bass, we're partial to the Curado K reel. It offers excellent control from the SVS Infinity braking system and cross-carbon drag. Several gear ratios are available to give you the right amount of torque for freshwater or saltwater.

Abu Garcia Revo Rocket Reel
from TD Pro Staffer Adrian Avena (IG: avenaprofishing)

ABU GARCIA REVO5 ROCKET

If pure power is what you're after, the new Revo Rocket bass reel delivers. It's one of the fastest baitcasters around with gear ratios of up to 10.1:1 for flip and pitch, buzzbaits, frogs and other topwater techniques. The reel is designed to provide best in class performance, precision, and power.

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