If you are a professional fisherman who relies on his reel, I advise you to also take a good look at some baitcasting reels which might make your life easier in the long term. This type of reel will satisfy you even if you are a control freak. Using this type of reel will make your lure go exactly where you need it to go. In addition, it allows you to slow down the lure so it can gently fall into the water.
They even have a system that helps you control backlash. Basically, If you are someone who wants stability, precision, and the ability to fish in fresh and saltwater, it is possible that you will like the baitcasting reel. If you’ve already decided on a baitcasting reel, but you still don’t know which one is right for you, we’ve got you covered. Are you willing to look with me at all the best baitcasting reels on my list?
Top 7 Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100 Reviews in 2022
After my extensive and detailed research, I found seven great reels that cost less than 100$. From those which total weight is only 5.8 ounces to those which total weight is 11.99, I have taken a good look at them and I’ll help you make a choice on which one is better for you.
Although they are mostly composed of identical parts, they differ in quality, weight, range, and handling comfort. As you are about to see, some of them have a dual brake system, Super Low Torque BB system, and even handles made of non-slip material.
1. KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reel
My first suggestion is this KastKing Royale Legend GT reel. Its design is not only beautiful but also useful. The handles are made of soft synthetic material that pleases the fingers and makes it easier to use the reel.
Such soft handles are also the reason why this machine got this name- Grand Touch. The braking efficiency of this machine is outstanding because it has 8 cross-fire magnets. Both left-handed and right-handed people can use it because it has the ability to adjust with both hands.
The double bearings are made of stainless steel, while the shaft and main gear are made of brass. Its line guide is made of ceramics. This KastKing Royale Legend GT reel has a matte red finish frame and glossy black sides.
- It can be used in both fresh and saltwater fishing
- Very affordable price
- It has a magnetic brake
- Comfortable to use
- The spool tension knob might have performance issues
Also Read: Best Catfish Reel – Guides From Fishing Experience!
2. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
I liked this Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting reel and I wanted to suggest to those of you who are aiming for something bigger fish. It has five well-arranged magnets that allow good control over backlash.
The side panels can be removed to be arranged regularly and easily maintained. What improves the stability and performance of this reel is the double winding shaft. Something like this can be found on much more expensive reels.
The designers of this reel tried to make this one even easier to use by adding a quick oil port design. This could be a great choice for those who want to get a big fish out quickly and easily in the most efficient way possible. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting reel has reinforced gears that are made of stainless steel, as well as springs and screws.
- Very affordable price
- Optimal shielded bearings
- It can be used in both fresh and saltwater fishing
- The spool tension knob clicks with adjustment
- If it is not maintained regularly, it can begin to produce noise
3. Abu Garcia Max Black Baitcasting Reel
The first thing that caught my attention about this baitcasting was that it’s a left-hand reel. It’s not easy to find reels that exclusively suit left-handed anglers, and this is a blessing. Aside from that, the other features of this reel are also exceptional.
The name Abu Garcia generally means premium quality fishing equipment, so you can rest assured that this reel would serve you well. The frame is made out of a single graphite piece, and the side plates are made from the same material. As a result, the baitcasting reel is tremendously lightweight.
The reel is equipped with 4 stainless steel ball bearings and a power disk system for smooth performance. On the other hand, there’s also a MagTrax brake system. It increases the accuracy of your casts and the range as well. Lastly, while the handle is compact, that doesn’t stop it from providing an ergonomic grip.
- Lightweight design
- Power Disk system
- MagTrax brake system
- Compact and ergonomic handle
- You’ll need to adjust the reel quite often for good results
Also Read: How to Cast a Baitcasting Reel – the Easiest Way
4. Piscifun Phantom Carbon Baitcasting Reel
This reel could be a solution for those who spend all day fishing. It is very lightweight. The gears and bearings of this reel are made of stainless steel. This is the main reason why the performance of this machine is outstanding.
Piscifun Phantom Carbon Baitcasting reel has both centrifugal and magnetic brakes. The centrifugal brake allows anglers to be precise and to maximize casting distance. On the other hand, the magnetic brake allows precise adjustments for all types of baits.
This reel has a pulling force of up to 17 kilograms. This is possible thanks to carbon fibers. The gears of this machine are more efficient and durable thanks to the shaft of the aluminum alloy hard anodized alloy. Another specificity of this reel is an oversized titanium line guide which reduces friction and maximizes casting performance.
- Lightweight
- Dual brake system
- Possible use in deep water
- Attractive screw out caps
- It can be too loud during use
- Not very durable
- Weak quality
5. Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reel
When I first saw this reel, it gave the impression of a very good one by the fact that the seller offered a 90-day trial period and one year warranty. The size of the reel fits your hand very well, so it is possible to fish all day without excessive fatigue. This is achieved by the lightweight of the machine, which is made of a light graphite frame and a side plate.
Apart from the hand, it is also pleasing to the eye. This Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reel has a nice matte finish that gives it a more expensive look. It comes in two colors, black and red. The company that manufactures this reel is very proud to point out that this machine will last 30 times longer than the others.
They claim this because their gears are made of brass, so corrosion resistance and durability are significantly improved. This particular baitcasting reel is made of actual 7 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. It is quiet and does not produce noise even under heavyweights. This is possible thanks to the Graphite-clicker star drag with sound reminders.
- Brass crankshaft
- Super Low Torque BB system
- On the cheaper side
- weighing about 215 grams
- The cap that holds the spool might be popping off
- It might snarl from time to time
Also Read: Baitcaster VS Spinning Reel – Which Should You Choose?
6. Sougayilang Round Baitcasting Reel
This might be a good choice for those who want an oversized model. This model is helpful if you are someone who is looking for a bigger and heavier fish, up to 10 kg. The large handle provides additional stability.
The material from which the handles are made prevents slipping. The handle is shaped to fit your fingers perfectly. The inner parts of the reel are well made, in order to prevent corrosion.
The gears are made of brass, and the shaft is made of stainless steel. It has ball bearings, six of them. Sougayilang Fishing reel has a Superior drag system that can offer you amazing stopping power. The manufacturer of this reel gives a three-year warranty.
- lightweight
- Stable and precise
- Nonslip grip
- Clutch might not engage occasionally
- Parts can sometimes fall off
7. RUNCL Baitcasting Fishing Reel REMIEL
I would like to suggest a great saltwater baitcasting fishing reel. This Remiel reel has a balanced construction that allows you very good performance. For good performance, it is very important to have a stable device. This one has only a magnetic brake.
It is constructed with 5 magnet beans. They are providing smooth operation. If you get caught in the wind while fishing, you don’t have to worry. Adjustable gears (32 of them) in a left-handed baitcasting reel prevents creating bird nests. The Remiel is made of stainless steel, and the fibers are made of carbon.
This one is very lightweight, it weighs less than 200 grams. Like most of the reels on this list, it is available for both left-handed and right-handed fishermen. The length of the handle is 10 cm and it is lined with non-slip material to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
- lightweight
- Handle made of non-slip material
- Easily adjustable drag
- Can produce noise occasionally
Things to Pay Attention to When Buying a Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Now that I have presented to you some of my favorites among the reels that cost less than 100 dollars, let’s remind ourselves what is the most important thing you need to pay attention to.
The Handle
It is very important that the handle on the reel is as comfortable as possible. If it is lined with non-slip material and shaped to fit your fingers, fishing will be much easier.
Brake System
There are different types of brake systems on the market. You can choose between mechanical, centrifugal, and magnetic, depending on what suits you. Their purpose is to prevent nylon or string from wrinkling. With a magnetic brake system, it is possible to adjust the magnet closer and further from the spool, depending on the speed at which the line comes off.
If the magnets are further away from the spool, it will spin more freely. Otherwise, it will slow down. With centrifugal brakes, their activation occurs only when centrifugal force is applied. It is in direct proportion to the amount of force applied. The last option is mechanical brakes. Mechanical brakes work by constantly applying force to a spool.
Reel Weight
The lighter the reel, the easier it will be to operate. Lightweight reels allow you to enjoy fishing for longer because you will not get tired of the constant heavy load. That is what is obvious. Lighter versions of reels used for fishing smaller fish, in freshwater. Larger and heavier reels used in saltwater.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratio described as the number of times a spool spins with one full turn of the machine. This is something I have not mentioned in the text so far, so I will give you an example now. If the gear ratio of the reel is 7:1:1, which means that the gear ratio will rotate the spool 7.1 times with just one full turn. If you are fishing on the surface of the water, this will be the ideal speed; however, if you are fishing in-depth, you will need a lower gear ratio than previously mentioned.
Also Read: Best Shimano Spinning Reel on the Market Right Now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What Are the Differences Between a Low Profile Design and a Round Spool Design in Baitcasting Reels?
A: The low profile design of baitcasting reels is used for shorter and lighter casting. This reel design does not take too much line. It is also much lighter than the round spool design, which means you can cast for long periods without fatigue.
The round spool design of baitcasting reels can hold much more line and are used for deep water fishing or surfcasting. We highly advise picking the right design depending on the type of fishing you intend to do.
Q: Which Is Better: Aluminum or Graphite Baitcasting Reel?
A: Most expensive baitcasting reels are made of more durable aluminum. But, graphite reels are equally suitable for most purposes and uses. They are also much lighter. It’s just a matter of personal choice.
Q: What Kind of Braking System Does a Baitcasting Reel Need?
A: Reels either have a centrifugal or magnetic braking system. Some reels have a combination of both. The braking system is used to adjust the speed at which the spool feeds out the line. It should be able to prevent the reel from spinning faster than the fishing line being fed out. You should also go for a braking system that can be adjusted to avoid backlash or bird nest formation during casting.
Q: What to Look for in a Drag System for a Baitcasting Reel?
A: The drag system controls how a fish can pull the line when it is fighting. The drag system is controlled by a star-shaped knob on the baitcasting reel. You should be able to adjust the drag. If the drag is set too tight, it will snap the line. If set just right, it will let the hooked fish make a run but leave you in control.
Conclusion
In the end, I want to point out that the ideal reel is different for everyone. Choose the right reel for yourself based on whether you are walking in fresh or saltwater. The next important criterion is financing. Adequately choose the right model for you. Choose a reel made of non-corrosive material to make the machine last longer. Choose a drag system that can be adjustable so you can fine-tune them to help in reeling in the catch.
And last but not least, before making any purchase, research everything about the product you have chosen. Buying this type of reel can be very confusing, especially if you are a beginner. I hope the article was helpful to you.
