For some anglers, a bass fishing reel is a basic piece of equipment. Others treat them like high-end mens jewelry. Some claim that a $600 spinning reel is worth every penny. But is that really necessary?

　　Bass arent hard-charging saltwater fish that can burn up a drag. But startup inertia, smoothness, and ease of adjustability do differentiate one bass reel from another.

　　I took to the water this spring armed with reels from multiple manufacturers. I shelved worrying about the names and technologies and tested real-world performance. Fishing different reels side by side allowed me to feel the minute differences that make one reel just a touch better than the other. Obviously, I couldnt test everything out there, and if you think theres an exceptional product I missed, let me know!

　　Cutting to the point, my favorite two reels are the Daiwa Tatula CTbaitcaster, which provided solid performance day in and day out. For finesse fishing, theBass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reelis just as smooth as more expensive reels at a fantastic price.

　　Top Picks Best Overall Bass Fishing Baitcast Reel Daiwa Tatula CT 8.8/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy Best Budget Baitcaster Abu Garcia Max Z Low Profile Baitcast Reel 7.1/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Pure Fishing Best Overall Bass Fishing Spinning Reel Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel 9.5/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro Shops Best Budget Spinning Reel Abu Garcia Max SX Spinning Reel 7.3/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Pure Fishing Best Bass Fishing Reel for Swimbaits Shimano Tranx 300/400 8.2/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy Best Baitcaster for Beginners Shimano SLX DC 7.7/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy See more picks Daiwa Tatula CT Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy

　　8.8 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 100 Weight: 7.2 oz Bearings: 7+1 Material: Aluminum Gear Ratio: 6.3:1, 7.3:1, 8.1:1 Max Drag: 13.2 Line Capacity: 14/120, 16/100 Inches Per Turn: 30.5 Pros Ultra Durable Aluminum Design Price Numerous gear ratios available T-Wing system casts further and reduces backlashes Great size for palming Cons Slight vibration on retrieve Morgan Nowels The Daiwa Tatula CT ($149) has been a staple on my boat deck for years. Ive relied on it day in and day out and have never performed any maintenance on it. Despite that, it keeps trucking flawlessly.

　　One of the best things about this reel is how few backlashes anglers will experience with it. Youll go days without even the slightest backlash, which can be hard to notice because the reel is performing as intended. Then, you pick up another reel and get a backlash. I felt more comfortable putting this reel in my clients hands over others for this simple reason.

　　The lack of backlashes can be attributed to Daiwas T-Wing System. Im not sure how it prevents backlash, but from my testing, I can say that it works, even if I dont know how.

　　That same T-Wing system opens up when the thumb release is clicked down to cast. It creates a much larger opening for the line to feed through. This reduces friction as the line shoots out, which results in longer casts, time and time again.

　　I found this reel to be the perfect size for palming. In the wintertime, I fish jigs with one hand holding the rod and using the same hand to flick the reel handle to pick up slack. This allows my other hand the freedom to warm up in a pocket. The Tatula is the perfect size for this, and I could easily reach the reel handle with my rod hand.

　　The workmanship of the Daiwa Tatula CT is also phenomenal. Even after years of use, the reel remains scratch-free and looks as good as it did when it came out of the package. It does have a slight vibration when retrieving, but thats being nit-picky. If you want a baitcaster that just works, and does so for years, this is the reel for you.

　　Best Budget Baitcaster Abu Garcia Max Z Low Profile Baitcast Reel Check Price at Pure Fishing

　　7.1 How we rate products Specifications Size tested: 100 Weight: Not listed Bearings: 5+1 Material: Carbon Gear Ratio: 7.1:1 Max Drag: 18lb Line Capacity: 10/150, 12/120, 17/85 Inches Per Turn: Not Listed Pros Price Smooth drag from Power Disk drag system Brass gear ensures long life Extra grippy handle Cons Scratches easily No clicker on drag adjustment Morgan Nowels For a reel that comes packaged in a clamshell, the Abu Garcia Max Z Low Profile Baitcast Reel ($69) outperformed expectations. Its a basic reel that simply gets the job done.

　　The reel has an effective drag and operates smoothly. Many reels in the same price range have jerky drags, requiring a high amount of pressure to engage the drag system. I found the opposite to be the case with the Max Z. It engages smoothly on every fish. Perhaps the best thing I can say about this reel is that from a purely functional standpoint, there are no flaws.

　　However, its still a budget reel and as such, has a few flaws. The first thing I noticed was how easily the carbon body scratched. Just cutting the reel out of the clamshell packaging resulted in a few dings before it got out on the water. Thats a purely cosmetic issue, though.

　　I was also annoyed with the fact that the star drag adjustment doesnt have a clicker. A clicker on drag adjustments is almost a given nowadays, and adjusting a reel without it requires a little more effort to get set just right. However, Abu made up for it by giving you an external brake adjustment knob, a feature that is missing on most budget baitcasters.

　　The Abu Garcia Max Z Low Profile Baitcast Reel is manufactured with a brass gear to ensure the reel lasts for years. Often, budget reels have lower-quality components to save on price, but this reel has high-quality components where it matters most. Budget-minded anglers wont feel like they gave up much when purchasing this reel.

　　Best Overall Bass Fishing Spinning Reel Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　9.5 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 3000 Weight: 7.4 oz. Bearings: 10 (9+1) Material: Aluminum Gear Ratio: 6.2:1 Max Drag: 22 lbs. Line Capacity (lbs./yards): 8/120, 10/95, 12/80 Inches Per Turn: 36.8 Pros Price Silky smooth retrieve results in amazing sensitivity Low startup inertia Comfortable handle High inches per turn Cons Doesnt wind line as evenly as premium reels Morgan Nowels The Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel ($129) is a sleeper of a reel that came out of left field, claiming the top spinning reel spot. Many bass anglers dont consider purchasing a Bass Pro-branded product because they dont take the brand seriously from a manufacturing standpoint. It makes flannel shirts and workwear. How could it possibly produce a competitive reel? Im here to tell you that you should take Johnny Morris products seriously. And you should buy this reel. Right Meow.

　　Initially, I had a loving marriage with the Shimano Stradic FM. For all intents and purposes, the race for the best spinning reel was over. Then the Platinum Signature arrived on my doorstep. After one cast and retrieve with the Platinum Signature, the marriage was in shambles.

　　Going cast-for-cast against one another, it was nearly impossible to tell a difference between the two reels. The Platinum Signature has a buttery smooth retrieve, thanks to its ten bearings. Many spinning reels can cause even the best rods to lose sensitivity due to grinding gears and sticky retrieves. Were not talking about grinding and sticking thats immediately noticeable. Its so subtle that you wont tell its there until you use a reel like the Platinum Signature with a perfectly smooth retrieve. I could feel everything through the rod when using this reel.

　　The startup inertia was minimal when fish took runs. I accidentally foul-hooked a massive drum with a 6-pound leader, and the drag on the reel protected my light line, allowing me to land the fish rather than break off. The reel engaged flawlessly, time and time again, this spring.

　　The real kicker on this reel is the price. After those first few casts with the Platinum Signature, I thought, I must not be remembering the cost of this reel correctly. I thought it was $130, but its too good for that. It has to be at least $250. A quick Google search proved that no, it is $130.

　　It looks great, and the only real complaint I have with it is that it doesnt have premium features that make the line wind onto the reel as evenly as the Stradic. But is that worth an extra hundo? I didnt think so. With a full, one-piece aluminum frame, the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel will stand up to years of abuse. And with the price, youd be foolish to pass on it.

　　Best Budget Spinning Reel Abu Garcia Max SX Spinning Reel Check Price at Pure Fishing

　　7.3 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 3000 Weight: Not Listed Bearings: 6+1 Material: Graphite frame, aluminum handle and spool Gear Ratio: 5.2:1 Max Drag: 14 lbs Line Capacity: 6/225, 8/175, 10/140 Inches Per Turn: Not Listed Pros Price Has same features as high end reels where it matters Tiny frame, but maintains large spool Aluminum spool Spool design prevents line from slipping into gears Cons Lower gear ratio Carbon components scuff easily Drag can be tough to dial perfectly Morgan Nowels My favorite thing about the Abu Garcia Max SX Spinning Reel ($69) was that the 3000 size felt like a 2000. The frame itself feels tiny, but the spool is the standard size youd expect on a 3000.

　　The result is a budget-friendly reel that balances well on every spinning rod out there. This reel certainly isnt a heavy clunker like other budget reels I tested. The light weight is due to its size and carbon-constructed frame. The spool and handle are both made of aluminum, providing durability where you need it most.

　　Some budget reels I tested (that I left out of this article) had problems with there being a large gap between the reel frame and the bottom of the spool. That resulted in my guided clients having line slip under the spool and getting tangled in the gears. The Max SX, however, was built with a tight tolerance between the two pieces, eliminating that very annoying problem.

　　Abu also put many of the same components in this reel that are found on their pricier Zenon and Revo spinning reels. These internal technologies resulted in a reel that was almost as smooth as some of the more expensive reels in the test.

　　The main complaint I had with the Abu Garcia Max SX was the drag adjustment. Theres a very small window on the adjustment that is the prime spot. When turning the dial, you wont notice a significant difference in drag pressure. Then you hit a point where half a turn results in a drastic change in drag pressure. You can still get it perfect, but theres definitely a sweet spot for effective drag settings. Aside from that, anglers will love the performance this reel provides.

　　Best Bass Fishing Reel for Swimbaits Shimano Tranx 300/400 Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy

　　8.2 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 300 Weight: 11.64 oz Bearings: 5+1 Material: HAGANE metal Gear Ratio: 5.8:1, 7.6:1 Max Drag: approx. 17.6 lbs for 7.6:1, approx. 22 lbs for 5.8:1 Line Capacity: 16/210, 20/160, 25/135 Inches Per Turn: 39.37 Pros Doubles as a saltwater and big game reel High line capacity helps when fishing heavier pound test on swimbaits and large lures HAGANE metal creates unmatched durability External brake adjustment Heavy drag Smooth retrieve Cons Heavy Price Brake adjustment is tough to turn Morgan Nowels Swimbait anglers are a unique breed, and unique anglers need a unique reel like the Shimano Tranx ($299). The swimbait reel award is the only technique-specific award I gave out. The reason is that casting specialized, heavy baits requires specialized equipment. Its one of the few categories where you need not only a technique specific rod, but a reel as well.

　　The 300 is perfect for throwing glidebaits and soft swimbaits like the Megabass Magdraft. One of the main reasons you need a specialized reel is due to line capacity issues youll run into with standard sized reels. Swimbaiters throw heavy lines, often opting for 25-lb fluorocarbon or 65-85 lb braid. Those lines have a large diameter that takes up tons of spool space. Fortunately, the Tranx has a small arbored spool that can take more line than any reel Ive used.

　　Not only does it provide plenty of space for line, but in classic Shimano fashion, I found it to be smooth and had a low startup inertia. With its ridiculous maximum drag setting, Ive used it to chase musky and striped bass, and never once felt undergunned. While I havent done this, it could also double as a saltwater reel.

　　There are two handle styles on the Tranx. The standard handle is available on the lower gear ratio version, and a power handle is included with the higher gear ratio version. I loved the power handle as it allowed me to overcome torque issues associated with higher gear ratio reels. That was a solid move on Shimanos part.

　　Older versions of the Tranx didnt have an external brake adjustment. In 2025, that was changed, with an external knob being added to make fine tune adjustments. You still have to open the real to change the number of brakes, but you have some level of external adjustment. The brake system itself was also upgraded, and it is much easier to turn individual brakes on and off.

　　However, the external knob is difficult to turn. Youll need fingernails to go into the grooves on the knob to force it to turn, so it hasnt been perfected. The Shimano TranX is also heavy, but thats not a big deal for anglers who love 4-oz. baits and big fish.

　　Best Baitcaster for Beginners Shimano SLX DC Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy

　　7.7 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 150 Weight: 7.58 oz. Bearings: 4+1 Material: HAGANE Metal body Gear Ratio: 6.3:1, 7.2:1, 8.2:1 Max Drag: 11.02 lbs Line Capacity: 12/130, 14/110,16/100 Inches Per Turn: 26.4-34.64 Pros Digitally controlled spool helps prevent backlash Variety of gear ratios for power or speed Made of high quality metal Excellent casting distance, especially in wind Cons Can be tough to get set correctly for DC function to work properly. Multi piece design feels cheap for the price of the reel Morgan Nowels For those looking to get their first baitcaster, the Shimano SLX DC ($199) will make the learning curve less steep. Thats all thanks to the DC annotation. DC, or digitally controlled, refers to a microcomputer built into the reel. Sounds fancy, but what does that mean?

　　The microcomputer built into the reel detects changes in the spools speed and adjusts the braking system accordingly. That microcomputer makes up for the angler failing to thumb the spool properly at the end of the cast. So, where you would usually get a backlash, the SLX DC will prevent it from happening all on its own.

　　Now, this is not a completely foolproof system. You can still get this reel to backlash. Youll find people saying that they can operate this reel without ever thumbing the spool and not get a backlash. I found this to be true. However, it took more adjusting than I thought it would to get the reel to that point. When it wasnt set correctly, it could still backlash.

　　This reel is also one of those products where reading the instruction manual will definitely help you. Thats because you dont adjust the brake system or tension knob the same way you do with other baitcasters. You adjust the brakes based on the line youre using. And you adjust the tension knob until you stop feeling wiggle in the spool itself.

　　Once I got it dialed, it performed great. My wife was the test subject for this reel. She has always been content to sit on the back of the boat with a spinning rod, catching every fish in the lake on finesse tackle. It was time for her to learn the ins and outs of a baitcaster.

　　In a short time, she was throwing crankbaits around and flipping jigs. The Shimano SLX DC covered up her occasional mistakes and kept her fishing instead of digging out tangles. And, for those who think DC reels are just for beginners, when was the last time you threw one? Casting this reel is downright fun, and it possesses an intangible it factor thats hard to put into words.

　　Other Great Bass Fishing Reels Shimano Stradic FM Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　9.4 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 2500 Weight: 7.8 oz Bearings: 6+1 Material: HAGANE Metal Gear Ratio: 5.8:1, 6.4:1 (3000 size) Max Drag: 20 lbs Line Capacity: 8/140, 10/120 Inches Per Turn: 34, 37 (3000 size) Pros Smoothest real we tested Long stroke spool lays line evenly on retrieve Anti twist fin on bail manages line perfectly Bearings have shields around them to keep dirt and grit from affecting performance Cons Price Morgan Nowels If I had decided to exclude price as a factor in the rankings, the Shimano Stradic FM ($219) would have taken the best spinning reel award. Unfortunately, price is a factor for almost every consumer. The Stradic did perform slightly better than the top choice, but not enough to justify the price difference.

　　Shimano packed this reel full of every technology imaginable. This is one of those great situations where a brand takes the same technology used in their top products and packages it in a more affordable option.

　　In fact, there are so many technologies packed into this reel that it would be ridiculous to list them all. The Stradic features 15 of Shimanos proprietary technologies. If you want to see them, you can check it out on Shimanos website.

　　What I found is that all of those technologies resulted in the smoothest reel I tested. There is zero vibration or stickiness when retrieving line. It allows you to feel every single thing your bait is doing. I noticed more bites when using finesse techniques, such as drop shots and Ned rigs, with this reel.

　　I also loved the fin that is found on the bail. This helps ensure that the line feeds onto the spool perfectly on every retrieve. That was the main performance difference where the Stradic got the leg up over the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature. But, it may not be worth the price for every consumer.

　　However, if youve got the budget to spend over $200 on a spinning reel, youll love the Shimano Stradic FM.

　　Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcaster Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　7.9 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 100 Weight: 6.4 oz. Bearings: 10+1 Material: Aluminum Gear Ratio: 6.8:1, 8.3:1 Max Drag: 14 lbs Line Capacity: 10/135,12/120,14/95 Inches Per Turn: 35 Pros One of the smoothest baitcasters in our test Very lightweight makes the reel balance well on any rod Click on tension adjust knob Great Warranty Cons Gear ratio not listed on reel Metal scuffed with minor use Reel handle set too far off the body for easy one handed use Morgan Nowels Much like its spinning reel counterpart, I was impressed with the performance of the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel ($229). Unlike its counterpart, I dont feel it offers the same great value due to its higher price.

　　It was one of the smoothest baitcasters Ive used, in fact, smoother than my best overall pick. I also loved that there is a clicker in the tension adjustment knob that made making adjustments much more fine-tuned. Bass Pro also has an excellent track record with its warranty. The Platinum Signature has a 10-year warranty.

　　While I didnt have to test the warranty because its a solid reel, I know a guy who did with a different BPS reel. He took his broken reel to Bass Pro and walked out with a replacement that day. Bass Pro does not state they will do that in writing, but there are enough people who have done it that it seems to be true.

　　There were a few annoying things about this reel. First, the gear ratio isnt printed on the reel. So, if you have multiple of the same reel with different gear ratios, theres no quick way to look at them on your boat deck and identify which is which.

　　The reel handle is also off-set further than other reels I tested. The one-handed operation I did with the Tatula CT? It was harder to do with this reel, and the fingers on my rod hand could barely reach the handle. I wear XL gloves, so its not because my hands are small. The handle is just that far away.

　　It also didnt stand up to abuse like the Tatula, and after a month, there were a few scuffs on it. But, if smooth performance is your stick and you dont care about paying a little more, give the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel consideration.

　　Shimano SLX A Check Price at Bass Pro ShopsCheck Price at Academy

　　6.9 How we rate products Specifications Size Tested: 150 Weight: 6.9 oz Bearings: 3+1 Material: HAGANE Metal Gear Ratio: 6.3:1, 7.2:1, 8.2:1 Max Drag: 12 lbs Line Capacity: 10/120, 12/110, 14/90 Inches Per Turn: 25 (6.3:1 model) Pros Price Three different gear ratios available Durable Cons Not as smooth as other reels Easy to backlash No external brake adjustment Morgan Nowels The Shimano SLX A ($99) is one of the more popular reels on the market, and for good reason. It has a friendly price and gives solid performance Shimano is known for.

　　For those on a budget who are loyal to the brand, this is a great reel. The reel is available in three different gear ratios, allowing you to get the perfect reel for cranking, flipping and pitching, or a general-purpose reel. Ive had one since it was released and have experienced zero failures. The durability of this reel is excellent.

　　However, there are a few drawbacks to this reel. First is the lack of external adjustment on the brake system. You have to remove the sideplate to make any adjustments. The brakes are easy to engage and disengage once you access them, it just takes longer than an external knob. My clients and I have also found it to be easier to backlash than other reels.

　　Its a great reel, the main issue is its price point. Unless youre looking for a super high gear ratio, I dont think the SLX A offers enough benefit to jump up from the Abu Garcia Max Z. And, I think jumping up to the Daiwa Tatula CT is worth every penny of the extra $50.

　　However, if you want a budget reel with a gear ratio above 8:1 that provides solid performance, the Shimano SLX A is a great option.

　　Comparison Chart of the Best Bass Fishing Reels

　　The best overall baitcaster from our test, the Diawa CT. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Starting this winter, I conducted extensive research on all the different reels available on the market. It was challenging to narrow it down, but I found some of the best products from Shimano, Daiwa, Lews, and other manufacturers. I got my hands on them for on-water testing, which began in the winter and concluded in late spring. While I tested reels, I also tried out the best bass fishing rods and the best fishing sunglasses for those looking for some shades.

　　Who I Am

　　Our lead tester holding a bass (Photo/Alexis Totin) I am bass fishing obsessed, getting on the water numerous times a week and staying up to date with the latest professional tournament trails and industry news.

　　Ive been bass fishing since childhood, starting off catching largemouth in lily pads on a lake 15 minutes from my house. As I grew up, I became heavily invested in the fishing industry and have been working full-time in some capacity related to fishing since college. I started writing gear reviews seven years ago and have critically analyzed every piece of gear that crosses my path.

　　Surrounded by the excellent bass fisheries of Tennessee, I have ample opportunity to fish every bass fishing technique under the sun. I guided full-time for over ten years and continue to guide on a part-time basis. My typical bass haunts are the large lakes in the Nashville area as well as the small bass rivers within a two-hour radius.

　　My Testing Grounds

　　(Photo/Alexis Totin) My testing took place on Percy Priest Reservoir and small rivers in the Nashville area. Percy Priest is a typical highland reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is the best area to target largemouth bass. It is characterized by channel swings, where different rivers converge into the lake. Steep contour lines create shelves where the water depth changes from 20 feet to two feet within the space of a few yards. In the winter, I fished on deep rock and submerged trees. As spring arrived, my clients and I chased the fish to shallow waters, targeting flats and shallow rock banks.

　　The lower end is smallmouth country. There are high fish numbers in the lower portion of the lake, and I spent a considerable amount of time using spinning reels while employing finesse techniques in this area.

　　I also spent time doing some classic creeking, fishing in rivers as small as residential streets. These are gorgeous rivers lined with thick forests teeming with life. Baitfish, crawdads, and numerous game fish are in abundance in these rivers. I loaded the reels into my Flycraft for long floats, covering water in pursuit of smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass. We may have even thrown at a few Musky.

　　My Testing Process

　　We tested brands like Daiwa and Abu Garcia side by side. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Testing an individual reel in a silo doesnt tell you much about it. Youll find yourself thinking, This reel is smooth, or, it has a good drag. So good and smooth. Sure, its descriptive, but how smooth and how good is it compared to another reel?

　　However, picking up different reels side by side will highlight major differences that you may overlook if they are not used in quick succession. When testing reels, I had all of them spooled up and strung on rods on every one of my outings. This allowed me to make a cast and retrieve with one, and then pick up the competition and do the same.

　　I successfully dissected the nuances between each reel and identified which ones stood out.

　　It wasnt just me testing these reels. I also put the reels in the hands of guided clients and beginner anglers. Believe it or not, insight from newcomers is great. They arent burdened by brand biases and excess technical knowledge that can make you think one reel is better than another based on fancy technologies.

　　Beginners provided clear insights on what was working best for someone who may struggle with line management and casting.

　　Price was also taken into consideration in my rankings. Its very easy to overspend on bass reels, and the award winners needed to offer performance that justified the price. Certainly, an $800 Stella is likely to perform better than some of the reels in my test. But it would be a stretch to say that its $600 better.

　　Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Bass Fishing Reel

　　(Photo/Alexis Totin) Even the best fishermen on the lake struggle with buying a bass reel. With numerous brands and models within each brand, its easy to feel overwhelmed. And, theres nothing worse than heading to the water with a reel only to discover its a clunker.

　　The Buyers Guide is here to review some of the key factors to consider when purchasing a reel. Some of these things are very basic, but need to be covered for those just getting into the sport. Others are helpful for everyone, including the guy who fishes in tournaments every weekend.

　　Baitcasting vs. Spinning

　　Baitcasting reels sit on the top of the rod, and spinning reels sit below the rod. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) This is inherently tied to the type of rod you will be using. If youre looking to buy your first bass fishing outfit, check out our Best Bass Fishing Rods of 2025 buyers guide. These two types of reels operate in entirely different ways and go on different types of rods.

　　Spinning Reels Spinning reels are the most popular reels in all of fishing and will be most familiar to those new to the sport. They sit below the rod handle. To operate a spinning reel, you flip a bail, hold the line against the rod, and release it as you go forward on the cast. When youre lure lands in the water, you flip the bail again and are ready to reel.

　　Spinning reels like the Abu Garcia Max SX are more manageable for beginners because the spool stays in a fixed position during the cast. With the bail flipped, the line can freely unwind from the spool in a circular motion, but the spool remains stationary.

　　Baitcasters A baitcaster sits on top of the rod. There is a thumb button that you click to make a cast. However, when you click the thumb button, you have to use your thumb to hold the spool in place. Thats because with a baitcaster, the spool itself rotates to feed line into the cast as the weight of the lure pulls on it. So, you hold the spool with your thumb, and then release your thumb on the forward stroke.

　　The real kicker is controlling the spool when the bait hits the water. When a bait lands in the water, it slows down and almost stops on initial impact. But remember seventh-grade science class? Some dude said that an object in motion will remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force. Sure, the bait stopped, but that spinning spool? Yeah, its still spinning.

　　If an external force, i.e., your thumb, doesnt stop that spool, it will keep spinning wildly. The result is a massive tangle in the reel, called a backlash. Backlash happens because the bait is no longer moving fast enough in a forward direction to keep up with the amount of line the reel is feeding. To avoid backlashes, you must put your thumb on the spool to stop the spinning the moment the bait stops moving at the end of your cast.

　　Which Type of Bass Fishing Reel is Best for Me?

　　The Shimano SLX DC has a digitally controlled spool, making it our favorite baitcaster for beginners. Most bass anglers use both spinning reels and baitcasting reels. However, if youre trying to decide between them, consider the following pros and cons.

　　Spinning reels are easier to use for beginners. Spinning reels also excel at throwing lightweight lures. Bass anglers use them for finesse, small bait presentations. A spinning reel is also more sensitive.

　　Baitcasters give better control and accuracy because you can thumb the spool to affect how far your cast goes. A baitcasting reel is also better for heavier lures and, as such, is used for power fishing techniques. These reels will have heavier drags, which is better for pulling bass out of heavy cover with heavy line. Lastly, baitcasters will come with a wider variety of gear ratios, allowing you to alter how fast your bait moves with the reel itself.

　　Pro tip: If youre learning how to use a baitcaster, begin by practicing in your backyard. Pull off 40 feet of line before making a cast, and put a piece of tape over the remaining line on your spool. That way, if you backlash, you wont blow up the entire reel. A DC, or digitally controlled reel like the Shimano SLX DC will also help avoid backlashes. These reels feature a digital system designed to control the spool. They can still backlash, but when dialed in correctly, you can cast them without thumbing the spool at all at the end of the cast.

　　Gear Ratio

　　This Shimano Tranx has a gear ratio of 7.6:1 (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Gear ratio refers to the number of times the spool or bail spins per turn of the reel handle. So, a 6.3:1 gear ratio reel turns 6.3 times for every revolution of the reel handle.

　　Faster gear ratios like the 8.3:1 found on the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature baitcast reel are great when you need to move a lure quickly, or are flipping and pitching. If youre presenting bait to precise targets and then pulling it out for the next cast, a fast gear ratio can save time. Saved time means more casts.

　　The downside to fast gear ratio reels is that they lose torque. A fast gear ratio will require more pressure to turn the reel handle when the reel is under load. As a result, slower gear ratios are more suitable for fishing crankbaits, as they apply constant pressure to the reel.

　　Spinning reels have fewer gear ratio options. Most come in a 6.2:1 ratio or less. Baitcasters, on the other hand, come in a wide variety of gear ratios.

　　Inches Per Turn (IPT)

　　The Johnny Morris Platinum Signature we tested had a larger spool than the Shimano Stradic FM, resulting in a higher IPT. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) This is often overlooked by anglers, which is ridiculous. Everyone talks about gear ratio, but no one talks about inches per turn. Inches per turn refers to the number of inches of line that a reel picks up per turn of the reel handle. It is another way to affect the speed of retrieval.

　　A reel with a high IPT will have a larger spool, resulting in more line being picked up. So, a reel with a lower gear ratio could move a bait faster than a higher gear ratio reel because it picks up more line per turn of the handle.

　　Line Capacity

　　Berkley Forward spooled up on the Shimano Stradic (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Line capacity refers to the amount of line that the spool is capable of holding. Manufacturers will provide you with different specifications for both braided line and monofilament line.

　　Unfortunately, this isnt as clear-cut as it may seem. Different lines have different diameters and occupy different amounts of space. Some braids, for example, have half the diameter of another brand in the same pound test rating. Which diameter did a manufacturer use when coming up with their specs? No one knows. You dont know if youre comparing apples to apples between brands.

　　However, you can use it as a rough guideline. And, for most bass fishing, every reel is going to hold plenty of line. The only time I pay attention to it is if I plan on spooling a reel with heavy line that takes up a lot of room. In those cases, the Shimano Tranx offers a huge amount of line capacity.

　　Bearings

　　The Johnny Morris Platinum Signature baitcaster features 11 total bearings, ensuring a silky-smooth operation. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Bearings are used in reels to make them operate more smoothly. They are placed between moving parts to reduce friction and wear. As a general rule, the higher the bearing count, the smoother the reel will be.

　　That isnt always true, though. Fewer quality bearings can result in smoother operation than a reel with more, lower-quality bearings. The Shimano Stradic FM features only 6+1 bearings, which is significantly fewer than other spinning reels on the market. However, Shimano is a top dog in the reel market for a reason. They only use the best components, and their reels are silky smooth despite lower bearing counts.

　　Most reels will distinguish different types of bearings with the +1 distinction. Without going too far into the weeds, the +1 refers to a roller bearing. These bearings are technically bearings, but dont affect smoothness as much as a ball bearing.

　　Reel Size

　　Large reels, like the 300 size Shimano Tranx, are excellent for throwing large swimbaits. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Reels come in a variety of sizes and it can be tough for newcomers to know which one to get. For spinning reels, a 2500-3000 size reel will be perfect.

　　For baitcasters, bass anglers use 150-300 size reels. All are passable, with 150 and 200 being the most common. Reels like the Abu Garcia Max Z low-profile baitcaster fit in that range and offer a compact package that is easy to palm all day. Larger 300 reels are great for large swimbaits where extra line capacity is needed.

　　Frame Pieces and Materials

　　Budget reels like the Abu Garcia Max Z are made of carbon, and as a result scratch and scuff easier. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Reel bodies are manufactered as either one solid piece, or multiple pieces that are held together. One piece reels have better durability and will perform better when under stress as there arent multiple pieces that can torque differently. But, they cost more.

　　The most common materials used to manufacture reels are graphite and aluminum. Graphite tends to be lighter, but it will also be less durable. Aluminum, especially the high-quality aluminum found on reels like the Daiwa Tatula CT, provides minimal weight and unmatched durability.

　　Ease of Use and Adjustability

　　Reels like the standard Shimano SLX require you to remove a plate to adjust the brakes. Others like the Platinum Signature on the right have an external dial. (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Ease of use isnt a spec that a manufacturer will publish. However, looking at the reel can give you a general idea of it. This is most important with baitcasters.

　　Baitcasters have three levels of adjustability: brake system adjustments, tension knob adjustments, and drag adjustment. Both the drag adjustment and tension adjustments are fairly standard across all reels and are easily accessible. However, adjusting the brake system on some reels can be difficult.

　　The best baitcasters, like the Diawa Tatula CT provide a knob on the exterior of the reel to adjust the brake system. Others, like the standard Shimano SLX (NOT the DC) require you to remove a plate to access the brake system.

　　The best spinning reels and baitcasters should have a wide range of adjustability so that you can dial the reel in perfectly for your use.

　　Startup Inertia

　　Low startup inertia, like that found on the Shimano Stradic FM help land running fish that take sudden runs like smallmouth bass (Photo/Morgan Nowels) And were back on Sir Isaac Newton and nerdy physics. Bass wont take blistering runs that can burn up a drag, and just about every reel on the market has enough drag to stop any bass that swims. However, bass will take sudden runs. While you can apply a slow, steady pressure to lightweight line without it snapping, applying quick, rapid pressure will cause it to break.

　　The startup inertia in a reel refers to how easily the reels drag system engages when a fish initially takes off. The best drags will immediately engage when pressure is applied.

　　Reels with poor startup inertia are very noticeable. When a fish runs, the drag will feel jerky and sudden. Youll feel pressure building and building until the drag engages. You definitely dont want that when youre trying to land a giant. In our test, the Shimano Stradic FM had the lightest startup inertia of any reel we tested.

　　Price and Value of the Best Bass Fishing Reels

　　Budget reels like the Abu Garcia Max SX are more than capable of getting the job done. (Photo/Alexis Totin) You can pick up a cheap reel from Walmart and fish for bass until the cows come home. There certainly is nothing wrong with that, and it takes me back to the roots of fishing. Simple, cheap fun.

　　Or, you can take it to the other end of the spectrum and make putting a hook in a green slimy thing your entire lifes mission. Either way, theres a reel out there for you.

　　Budget Bass Fishing Reels At a bare minimum, a passable bass reel costs $30-$70. If you dip below 30 bucks, youll regret it. Reels cheaper than that will be so jerky and poorly designed that youll be fighting it all day. Ive tested some that were pretty much broken right out of the box.

　　Some of the best, like the Abu Garcia Max SX 3000, are great reels for the price and provide anglers with everything they need to get out on the water. An ideal reel in this range will be somewhat durable and reliable, performing the job day in and day out. This is the most volatile price range as some options are complete junk, but my favorites are a surefire bet.

　　With budget reels, you may be losing out on low startup inertias. They also wont have as many bearings and will be less smooth, which reduces sensitivity.

　　Adjustability can be lacking with a smaller range of drag or tension adjustment. Almost all reels in this price range will be made of carbon, or cheap aluminum, which is prone to scuffs and breakage. You may find plastic components as well, but itll get you fishing.

　　Mid-Tier Bass Fishing Reels Most bass anglers (including me!) end up purchasing mid-tier bass fishing reels. Reels in the $100-$300 price range play a perfect balance between performance and budget, especially considering how many rod and reel setups serious bass anglers own.

　　Reels in this price range should be expected to have no noticeable flaws. They need to have plenty of bearings and operate smoothly. Startup inertia shouldnt be an issue, and they should have easy adjustability. Most will have numerous gear ratios and sizes so that you can perfect the reel for your needs.

　　These are the reels you will come to rely on day in and day out. They will also be constructed with quality materials that stand up to the test of time. You wont find carbon reels here; only aluminum frames that can withstand a beating. Some of my favorites, like the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel, not onlyclaimto perform better than high-end reels, but actually do while on the water.

　　But, they still wont be the greatest thing out there.

　　Premium Bass Fishing Reels Remember when I said that some reels are the equivalent of mens high end jewelry? Yeah, this is where they fall.

　　Bass reels in the $500+ price are honestly works of art. Ideal specs and performance are a given, and you enter into the world of making something that is unnecessarily perfect. You may have noticed a difference in price from the top end of mid-tier reels to the bottom end of premium reels. Thats because reels in between dont make much sense to me. They flirt with being the most premium, but dont quite make it. Youre either a baller or you arent, both of which are fine.

　　These reels will be very light. In fact, the lightest money can get. They only have the finest Japanese components. And yes, the Japanese are better at making reels than Americans are. I love Toyota trucks for a reason. Reels are the same.

　　At this price, youll find a reel with a drag system so perfect that its sure to melt your heart. And it will pair so perfectly with a rod that you wont even notice its there.

　　Reels that are in the premium range are unnecessary from a functional standpoint. I typically recommend this price range for saltwater anglers who can truly benefit from the advantages of higher-quality metals that are corrosion-resistant and drags that can stop a truck. However, Im a fishing nerd and understand the obsession with the best of the best. If you have the extra money laying around, reels in this range will give you some serious street cred. Due to price though, I include any premium reels in this test.

　　Frequently Asked Questions

　　(Photo/Alexis Totin) What size reel is best for bass fishing? For spinning reels, most anglers use a 2500-3000 size bass reel. These provide a great balance on the rod, plenty of power to fight bass and are capable of holding enough line for the longest casts. For baitcasters, most anglers use 150-200 size reels, but dedicated glidebait anglers go up to 300 size reels.

　　Is a baitcaster or spinning reel better for bass fishing? Both are used for bass fishing, and neither is better. They do different things. Baitcasters give better accuracy and control. They also cast heavier lures better. Spinning reels excel at throwing lightweight lures and are easier for beginners to operate. Most experienced bass anglers use spinning reels for finesse techniques and baitcasters for power fishing.

　　What gear ratio is best in a bass fishing reel? Spinning reels are most commonly found with a 6.2:1 gear ratio or lower. For baitcasters, a reel with a gear ratio at around 6.1:1 is great for slowly moving baits as well as crankbaits that require better torque in a reel. Gear ratios of 7.6:1 and above are ideal for situations where quick line retrieval is necessary, such as flipping and pitching.

　　Who makes the best bass fishing reels? Shimano and Daiwa are the most popular reel manufacturers. Both are Japanese companies that have been making reels for decades. However, many others are great as well. Abu Garcia, Lews, 13 Fishing, and others all make quality products