Fishing is quite a nice activity to skip to. Life can get quite stressful, confusing, and restless at times. In these cases, you need something that makes you work hard but also gives you great results instantly.
Fishing is one such activity and one of the things you put the effort into while fishing is fishing with the right gears. Just buying a fishing rod is not enough in this case- you have to buy the right one with the right ones. At times you have to buy the pieces separately and join them together to serve your purpose even better.
Now, the fishing reel is an important part of your fishing rod when you are fishing. If you are fishing in saltwater then you are probably going to be dealing with larger, more aggressive fishes. Also, the saltwater will harm your gears- the usual ones you use for freshwater won’t be able to handle the saltwater.
This is why you need the best baitcasting reel for saltwater. But, finding one from the many is not easy. That is why you have to put some effort into choosing it.
Best Baitcasting Reel for Saltwater: Fishing For Sport Recommended
| BEST PERFORMANCE | BEST VALUE | BEST MONEY |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
 |
| Lews Fishing MB | Abu Garcia Pro Max | KastKing Royale Legend |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Table of Contents
Best Baitcasting Reel For Saltwater: The Reviews
KastKing Royale Legend
If you are looking for a baitcasting reel that is quite easy to use then this KastKing Royale Legend is the one. In fact, it has a good drag capacity of 17.5 lbs also with a carbon fiber build. Thus, you can deal with the moderately sized fishes really well.
Also, it has a gear ratio of 7.0:1 which is quite a good speed for fishing offshore. Also, it has 11+1 bearings which ensure smooth action. But, the problem you may face is when catching the bigger species.
While it has a lot of capacity, it does not do well under pressure. The parts start giving up and also make cracking noises which may scare you. You may at some point feel like the reel is going to break.
It also features dual brakes of both magnetic and centrifugal kind. All these also make the retrieving easier for you. However, for the price, you may get better functioning and more powerful reels available.
But, this sure does last a while which makes it is one of the best baitcasting reel for saltwater.
PROS:
- The maximum drag is satisfactory.
- Good for dealing with moderately sized fishes.
- Quite smooth in performance.
- Easy retrieve.
- Built to last.
- Well functioning brakes.
- Quite fast as well.
CONS:
- May not seem worth the cost compared to others available.
- Makes noises.
- It does not do a great job with the larger fishes.
Abu Garcia Pro Max Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Want something that will stand the test of saltwater? Then, this Abu Garcia baitcasting fishing reel will save you from irritation. In fact, this one is well-built with just the right materials.
For example, it has a Machined double anodized aluminum spool which saves it from corrosion. Other parts have brass gear which is also quite good against saltwater. As for the cast- it does quite good. You enjoy quite an easy and smooth cast.
The credit, of course, goes to the 7+1 bearings which work really well. What you may have some trouble with is the quality of the handle. Have no doubt that this reel will be comfortable to hold but it gets noisy at times. Other than that, it won’t do very well with the larger species of fishes.
The power disk drag system is also a good one on it. As for the price, yes it is a bit expensive but it is one of quality.No wonder it is one of the best low profile baitcasting reel for saltwater. You can buy it if it meets your fishing purpose.
PROS:
- Built of the right materials for saltwater.
- It offers quite a smooth cast and retrieves.
- Comfortable to use.
- It lasts as long as it is taken care of.
- Ample drag for medium-sized fishes.
CONS:
- The handle is not of the best quality and makes noise.
- Not for larger species.
Abu Garcia Revo Toro Beast Low-Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel
You can quite trust the Abu Garcia brand now, can’t you? It is making some of the best reels out there and this Revo Toro one is surely on of them. In fact, it has a good drag. Apparently, the power stack carbon matrix drag system does quite a good job even in stressful conditions.
Other than that, it is built exactly for saltwater use- each of its parts. Firstly, the X-Crafty alloy frame saves the reel from corrosion and so does the stainless steel bearings. The 7+1 stainless steel bearings actually make the cast and retrieve very smooth.
The only thing you may have a problem with is the weight of the unit. Apparently, the unit is a bit heavy and you will need a stronger, larger rod for it. But. This unit sure is very expensive.
PROS:
- Powerful drag system.
- Quite durable in saltwater condition.
- Very smooth in the cast and retrieve.
- Easy to adjust the drag.
- Good quality build.
CONS:
- Quite expensive.
- A bit heavy.
Daiwa Coastal TWS T-Wing Reel
If you want a reel that is very good at avoiding bird nests then you can consider this Daiwa Coastal TWS T-wing reel. Apparently, it is the overall design of this reel that helps to avoid tangles and bird nests. Other than that, it has a really good drag system.
In fact, it has a maximum drag of 154 lbs. Furthermore, it has a great line capacity too. When it comes to smoothness, the unit has 7+1 bearings which keep the cast and everything very smooth.
It is not only the performance that is impressive but the reel is quite comfortable to hold as well. This is mainly owing to the handle that has EVA knobs. What you may not like is the overall quality of the reel. Also, it gets scratched quite easily.
But, it also demands more money from you than the other reels. The ease of use shall make up for all that.
PROS:
- It prevents bird nests and tangling.
- Quite comfortable to use.
- Very smooth cast and retrieve.
- Good drag capacity.
- Great line capacity.
CONS:
- Quality is not the best- gets scratched easily.
- Quite expensive.
ABU GARCIA AMBASSADEUR C3 ROUND REEL
Abu Garcia just does not seem to leave our list, does it? This time it is back with a less powerful reel. In fact, this great reel only has drag with a capacity of 12 lbs. And, that is not the best feature of the reel, is it?
When it comes to cast and quality the reel is amazing. It goes quite far and quite easily. You do not have to go through a tough learning curve for this reel.
It has a carbon matrix drag system with 3+1 stainless steel bearings. Thus, it handles saltwater quite well and performs very smoothly too. Apart from that, the handles are quite comfortable and the unit is easy to adjust as well.
What you will love most about this reel is its quality. Whatever capacity it has- it fulfills its duty really well. But, yes, you may regret the light maximum drag at the price you pay for this reel.
PROS:
- Very well-built with the best quality materials.
- Smooth and long casts.
- It handles saltwater very well.
- Comfortable to handle.
- Meant to last.
CONS:
- A bit expensive.
- Not the most powerful.
Lews Fishing Tournament MB Baitcasting Reel
Looking for a reel that will allow you to experiment with various moves and types of fishing? Then, this Lews MB Baitcasting reel may be the one you are looking for. Well, it does not excel at anything but does a good job at everything.
It has a maximum drag of 14 lbs which is not much, is it? So, this one is not for the more aggressive fishes. Other than that, it features 9+1 bearings which keep the casts and retrieves very smooth and free of tangles. In fact, you can cast quite far and very easily too.
The build of the reel is exactly how it should be for saltwater- aluminum frame, anodized aluminum spool, carbon drag system, stainless steel, etc. Therefore, you do not have to worry about its durability either.
What you may not like is that the handle is quite small along with the reel itself- thus it could be uncomfortable to hold the handle.
PROS:
- Good at everything it does.
- Well-built with the most suitable materials.
- Very smooth cast and retrieve- long too.
- Good line capacity and speed.
- Quite durable.
CONS:
- Not for the aggressive fishes.
- The handle is quite small.
- Not the best value for money.
SHIMANO Calcutta, Round Baitcasting Freshwater Fishing Reel
Shimano is another big name in the fish reel world and it proves its reliability again with this Calcutta fishing reel. This reel deserves the place in our best baitcasting reel for saltwater reviews for it’s well known built quality.
Apparently, this one has a great build which not only makes it last longer but also makes it look good. In fact, it has a Dartainium drag system, cold forged-aluminum frames, side plates, and more. Thus, you can rely on it in saltwater.
The unit is quite small and thus it will be lightweight in your hands. Furthermore, with three ball bearings, it makes the casts quite smooth. The max drag of 16.5 lb serves you well too.
The round profile will give you control while also making things easy for you. What you may find trouble with is the line capacity is not that great and you may also experience backlashes. Other than that, you may wish for more clicking features on the drag.
PROS:
- Built with good quality materials.
- Very smooth cast.
- Casts long.
- Easy and comfortable to use.
- Meant to last.
CONS:
- A bit small.
- Not with the best capacity.
Daiwa Luna 253 Baitcasting Reel
If you are looking for the best performing reel that really won’t fail to impress you in any case then this Daiwa Luna 253 may be the one for you. Apparently, it has solid bar stock aluminum building its frame and side plates which makes it quite a durable and sturdy unit. Then, the ball bearings are also corrosion-resistant so it protects the whole Daiwa Luna reel from functioning the wrong way.
Apparently, it has 5 ball bearings which help it move very smoothly. On top of that, it has magnetic brakes to prevent backlashes and bird nests.
In case durability and performance this reel is the best baitcasting reel for saltwater for sure.
The design of the whole reel, the placement of the spool makes it very flexible when you cast with it. However, all these do come at a really high cost. But, it sure is worth it!
PROS:
- Very smooth performance.
- No backlashes or bird nests.
- Very well built with the right materials.
- Very good at casting.
- It will last quite a long time.
- Good speed.
CONS:
- Quite expensive.
Abu Garcia CS-7000 Ambassadeur Pro Rocket Baitcast Fishing Reel
Were you getting tired of Abu Garcia? Well, you just cannot because it is that good! If you like to cast far and you want more precision when casting then this reel has a design that will help you! Apparently, it has a carbon fiber drag and 2+1 ball bearings that make the casts super smooth and long.
Furthermore, with a six-pin braking system, the unit prevents backlashes and birds nests really well. The handle has such a build and design that you can use it to your advantage when you are dealing with the large fishes.
The problems you may face include that the braided line well not work best with this unit. Other than that, you even get features like a clicking drag. So, it is super easy to set up as well.
PROS:
- A great option for long and smooth casts.
- Built really well- which is meant to last.
- Features helpful features.
- Very quiet.
- Easy and comfortable to use.
- Reduced backlashes and bird nests.
CONS:
- Not good with braided lines.
Daiwa LEXA-HD300XS-P Lexa Type-HD Baitcasting Reel
We have another reel from Daiwa, Are you looking for speed over everything else? Then, this reel with a gear ratio of 8:1 can do you good. Because it will not only be fast but it will be smooth as well.
In fact, it is built to last with good quality materials and has capacities that will win your heart. Apparently, it has a max drag of 22 lbs. Furthermore, it has 6+1 bearings which keep it functioning in a smooth manner.
Other than that, the unit has good line capacities for both braided and mono lines. What you may find a little problem with is how the drag works but you will find a way around it with time. It offers good value for the money as well.
PROS:
- Quite a fast reel.
- Smooth and long casts.
- Good capacity.
- Both kinds of lines work well with it.
- It offers good value for the money.
CONS:
- The drag action may need some getting used to.
If you want to explore more type of reels, not just the baitcasting ones you can check our
best saltwater spinning reels review and best inshore spinning reels review.
Best Baitcasting Reel for Saltwater: The Buying Guide
Here is a list of things you have to consider when buying a baitcasting reel. these features can be the difference between a normal baitcasting reel and the best baitcasting reel for saltwater.
The Drag:
Apparently, the drag is quite an important consideration when it comes to baitcasting reels. In plain words, the drag is the weigh your prey fish will fight with when you hook it up. The stronger the drag power, the more you can tire out your target fish.
Other than that the shape and design of the drag matter too. For example, a star drag is quite famous. This is because a drag with the right shape will make the movement of the reel easier and more accurate. And, this will lead to smoother performance.
Baitcasting reels usually have a drag power better than other reels. Since it mainly works with larger fishes.
Line Capacity:
One of the other reasons people choose baitcasting reels is because of its greater line capacity. Well, the greater the line capacity, the easier it will be for you to use the reel when the line gets cut off. It just saves a lot of time when you are fishing.
So, check if the line capacity of the reel is enough for you or not.
The Profile of the Reel:
You will find baitcasting reels of two profiles. One is round and the other low profile.
The Round Profile Reels: You hold these reels from behind as a result of which you get a greater torque. This is why anglers use this reel when they are after larger species of fish and need expertise over ease of use.
The Low Profile Reels: This offers you the ease of use and is usually for less aggressive fishing conditions. They are usually best for inshore fishing.
Let’s look at the basic parts of a Baitcasting Reel.
The Gear Ratio:
You want the reel to be fast, don’t you? Because a fish trying to save its own life will be quite fast and will do anything in its power to save itself from you. This is why you have to consider the gear ratio quite seriously.
Apparently gear ratio has something to with speed- the speed at which the line is released. For example, a gear ratio of 7:1 means that the reel will go through seven rotations with one turn of the handle. Thus, the higher the gear ratio the better.
Usually, you have to choose a higher gear ratio for baitcasting reels. You can start at lower for other reels but baitcasting, for its nature, requires you to have a higher gear ratio.
The Braking System:
Most baitcasting reels come with a braking system. This is mainly to ensure that birds’ nests do not occur. The sudden tangles can cause the whole line to split.
Therefore, you get the braking system of one type in your reel so that it protects the line from getting torn. Apparently, you get to select from two types of braking systems. One is magnetic, the other is centrifugal.
If you want to adjust the reel a bit then the centrifugal reel will offer you a lot of flexibility and expertise. On the other hand, if you want the ease of use then the magnetic braking system will be enough.
The Material building the reel:
It is actually the frame we are talking about. As mentioned earlier, saltwater can be quite harsh on your gears. This is why you have to make sure the material building the reel or the frame has anti-corrosion properties.
This way the harsh saltwater will get to it but won’t be able to cause a lot of harm. You should also check the reviews for this purpose. In fact, only other users will be able to tell you about the quality of the material and how long it lasted.
The Bearings:
You want the action of the reel to be smooth, everybody does. But with so much friction involved, it is hard for it to work so smoothly. This is where the bearings come in to help.
Apparently, ball bearings reduce the friction between the various parts of the reel. As a result, the reel works more smoothly. Also, this reduces the durability issues. With less friction, the parts of the reel also last longer.
You will usually find 9+1 ball bearings in the best reels out there. Apparently, the more the number of ball bearing the better.
The Weight of the Reel:
If you plan to fish for quite a while then you need a reel that supports you. Now, a reel that does not weigh a lot will definitely support you. Because of the heavier the reel, the more strain you will have on your hands.
Thus, you will feel fatigued sooner. So, you have to find a balance between a lightweight and a heavier weight which would mean greater quality.
The Handle Position on the reel:
Yes, it matters. Whether you are right-handed or left-handed, the reel should be able to cater to your specific needs. This is a feature people often overlook but it is quite important when it comes to your fishing performance.
Useful Features:
You may find that the fishing reel you choose has more special features. For example, some reels feature a spool tension that will make the action very efficient. Likewise, you will find many other features that intend to make your fishing experience easier.
Consider all these when you are looking for the best baitcasting reel for saltwater.
How To Setup a Baitcasting Reel
Earthling1984
Best Baitcasting Reel for Saltwater: conclusion
looks like we’ve reached the conclusion part of our long review of best baitcasting reel for saltwater.
Getting the right baitcasting reel will not only ensure that you get a reel that lasts but will ensure that you perform up to the mark. Whether you return home with a fish or not (you will), you will feel very happy about how the reel functioned as long as you choose the right one for your purpose and rod. Now, you know how to choose and also some of the bests available.
Lastly, if you have any opinion or a thought make sure to comment below and spread the knowledge among fellow anglers.
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