All of us have been intrigued by fishing at one point or another. Since childhood, people go on fishing trips with their friends and family, and it’s no surprise that fishing doesn’t only require a good swing of the rod and a quick reel in. There is a lot more to it.
Having the right set of equipment is an essential element when we talk about fishing. Even if you’re a beginner or an expert in fishing, it’s essential to have the best rod and the best baitcasting reel attached to it. Yes, the spinning reels are indeed easier to use, but they have several drawbacks too.
If you want to polish your skills as a fisherman, then upgrading to a baitcasting reel is highly recommended. If you’re wondering, how is a baitcaster any different? Don’t bother; we have got you covered. The baitcaster allows the fisherman to have better control by having the drag, spool tension knob, and a braking system.
In this article, to get you going while fishing, we will help you out in picking the best baitcasting reels under $100.
Our Top Pick from the Best Baitcasting Reels Under $100
If you don’t have the time to go through our all-inclusive list of the Best baitcasting Reels under $100. We have picked out our recommendation from this article for your convenience. We have picked “KastKing MegaJaws” with varying options that can suit any person out there.
In addition to that, it carries a lot of unique immersive features that a baitcasting reel can have, such as the Super long-cast KingKast LFTV, Double shielded ball bearings, CNC aluminum spool and handle, and a lot more that we’ll discuss in detail below.
10 Best Baitcasting Reels Under $100
1) Sougayilang Aslan Turquoise Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear Ratio: 8.0:1
- Bearings: 9+1
- Weight: 206g/7.3 oz
- Line capacity: 0.235mm/190m – 0.285mm/150m – 0.330mm/130m
- Max Drag: 18 lbs.
The first product on our list of the best baitcasting reels under $100 is the Sougayilang Aslan. This baitcasting reel has a Turquoise colored body which gives it a fashionable look. It comes in the market with a right and left-sided handle for your convenience, which you are free to choose from. Sougayilang has adapted golf-style grips, which are pretty comfortable.
The compact and light-weighted body allows the user to fish for longer durations without tiring their arms. Although it should be noted that this baitcaster comes with a fast 8:1 gear ratio, to operate this properly, some practice and skill will require. A high gear ratio will allow you to quickly recover the bait and give you quick and effective control on the fish.
With all of the specifications mentioned above, the Aslan Baitcast Reel has 9+1 ball bearings. This ensures longer durability, eliminates erosion and gives a much smoother fishing experience. All of these packed up and attached to your fishing rod would surely give you great pleasure while fishing. A max drag of 18lb indicates you to play with some bigger fish!
2. High gear ratio
3. Cool colored design
4. Solid Max drag capacity
2) Sougayilang Panther DG Fishing Reel
Key Features:
- Gear Ratio: 8:1
- Ball bearings: 9+1
- Drag capacity: 25lbs
- Weight: 208g/7.3oz
- Line reach(mm/m): 0.235/190 – 0.285/150 – 0.330/130
We are not done with Sougayilang just yet. Here is another item from them in this list of the top baitcasting reels under $100. The Panther DG Baitcasting Reel has one of the cleanest designs we’ve seen. Stainless steel, aluminum work, and a gloss finish give it a standout design. This baitcasting reel is best suited for long-range casting and with the 25lbs max drag. This will surely help you catch a big fish and break your records.
It has the same gearing ratio and ball bearings as Sougayilang Aslan. The high 8:1 gear ratio will help you reel in your bait way quicker, and ball bearings of 9+1 will reduce friction and help in a much smoother reel. However, the EVA handle is different, which is also an excellent grip.
With a 10 magnetic brakes system, your arms won’t tire as much when counter pulling against a caught fish. There will be fewer risks of getting overran or backlashed, and ultimately this will help give you a longer-lasting fishing time in ease. The Panther DG is another viable option in the list of finest baitcasters under 100 dollars.
2. Ergonomic design and look
3. Sturdy build
4. 10 magnetic brakes system
3) Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S
Key Features:
- Gear Ratio: 5.1:1
- Max drag: 11 lbs.
- Weight: 311.8g/11.1 oz.
- Ball bearings: 2
- Brake system: 4-pin
Abu Garcia is a famous name in the market of fishing equipment. This list of the best baitcasting reels under $100 would’ve been incomplete without including something from Abu Garcia! The ambassadeur S comes in a traditional round design. Round baitcasting reels may not be suitable for looks but are very easy to maintain, thus increasing their life span. It weighs about 11.1oz, which means it’s a little heavier than the usual Baitcasters
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The bent handle creates a comfortable grip and necessitates a comfortable session. It has a relatively slower 5.1:1 gear ratio, which is easier for beginners, and it also helps in a relaxed fishing experience. The 2 ball bearings with the multi-disc drag system allow a fairly easy operation while reeling and counter a fish and reduce the friction making the reel painless to handle.
The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S is suitable for many kinds of water bodies and is useable in different weathers too. The centrifugal casting feature helps in releasing a long and accurate bait throw. This is a great option to consider from the top-rated baitcasting reels under $100, especially for beginners of baitcasting reels.
2. Concise brakes
3. Durable and sturdy
4. Round and good design
4) Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear ratio speed: 7.1:1
- Max Drag: 18 lbs.
- Magnetic brakes: 0-10
- Ball bearings: 5+1
- Braid capacity
- Weight: 8 oz.
What is the best cheap Baitcasting Reel, you ask? The Piscifun Torrent is an excellent option in the market of low price Baitcasting reels. It has a finely polished graphite compact body shape which is not bad at all. It features the standard EVA knobs and a basic angular design.
The torrent reels come in the market in both right-handed and left-handed configurations. The 7.1:1 gearing ratio allows better retraction and quick reels, paired with the 5+1 shielded ball bearings, and a 0-10 magnetic dial braking system will allow you to tread your waters and catch tons of fish smoothly!
The Torrent by Piscifun is a cheap Baitcasting reel option to buy. Many features are found in expensive baitcasting reels, such as the double wind shafts, which increase performance, stability, and strength. This baitcasting reel is suitable for Freshwater and Bass fishing in specific.
There is a slight downside to this Baitcasting reel. It is not consistent while dragging and sometimes can cause a backlash if there’s a bigger fish on the end of the bait. Regardless, it’s still a great option considering its price and some quality features.
2. Good quality line and reel
3. Large handles, easier to grip
4. Convenient oil port design
5. Dual handed configuration
5) KastKing MegaJaws Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Comes in four gearing ratios – 5.4:1, 6.5:1, 7.2:1 and 9.1:1
- 11+1 dual shielded ball bearings
- Freshwater reel
- Weighs 7.5 Oz
- Max drag, up to 17.6 lbs.
- 10 level braking system
Next up in the list of the best baitcasting reels for $100 is the KastKing MegaJaws. KastKing is a renowned company and has a good variety of baitcasting reels in the market. When it comes to variety, they surely don’t fall short as they provide the MegaJaws in 4 different gear ratios, all in different colors. This is an amazing high-performing baitcasting reel.
The design is undoubtedly the coolest one we have come across. Staying true to its name, the front of the baitcasting reel has shark teeth-like design induced. An important side note, this baitcasting reel is not suitable for catching sharks. Anyways, apart from its incredible design, we’ve already seen the range of gear ratios you can choose from. Other than that, the 11+1 stainless steel ball bearings do a fantastic job in reducing any corrosion and friction while fishing.
Built-in carbon fiber drag washers remove any dragging inconveniences. The long casting line with the ability to drag 17.6 lbs. allows the user to fully immerse them and try their luck to catch bigger fish. As mentioned before, this is our top pick from this list of the best baitcasting reel for around $100.
• Great for long-term use
• Rubber cork grip handle allows precise control
• One of the coolest designs
• Drainage ports
6) KastKing Speed Demon Pro
Key Features:
- Gear ratio: 9.3:1
- Double secured ball bearings: 12+1
- Golf grips
- Weight: 6.5 oz
- Max drag: 13.2 lbs
- Trilateral Magnet Brake system
We have another KastKing appearance on our list of the top best baitcasting reels in 2021 under $100. This time we will review the features of the KingKast Speed Demon Pro. The design is quite neat and sleek, and it comes with a combination of black and orange colors. The Golf grip handles emit comfort at every touch and use. The large Spool allows higher range capacity.
As the name suggests, it has a high gear ratio of 9.3:1. This will allow you to cast much further and retrieve the bait back in with pure and quick simplicity. The 12+1 ball bearings enhance its smoothness and generate a user-friendly experience while fishing.
This baitcasting reel is also suitable for variable weather conditions and can be used in surf fishing, making it one of the best surfcasting reels under $100. The star drag system is a bit different from what we’ve seen until now. You can vary the adjustments by spinning the star dial on the side while reeling in a fish, countering its resistance. This is another excellent product from KastKing that you can ponder on.
2. Professional with its high gear ratio
3. Handle size allows great and fast pullbacks
4. Highly smooth operations
5. Light in weight
7) Resuntek Lizard Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear Ratio: 8.1:1
- Max drag: 18 lbs.
- Weighs: 6.88oz
- Ball bearings: 19+1
- Capacity: (lb./Yards) 40/120, 50/100, 65/85
- Magnetic brakes: 12 levels
- Rubber grip handles
The Resuntek Lizard Baitcasting reel is another amazing budget option on our list. The frame of this reel is made out of graphite. It has a compact design that is easy, comfortable to use, and won’t tire you out, thanks to it being lightweight. The grips are placed a little closer to the reel so that the rod won’t wobble when in use.
The Resuntek Lizard is probably the smoothest baitcasting reel under $100. This is pretty obvious because it has 19+1 ball bearings that are high compared to the other reels. 8.1:1 gear ratio allows smooth and quick reeling of bait and fish even at further distances. The adjustable brake control is always a great feature from all the baitcasting reels, and this one comes in with 10 different levels to apply under different circumstances.
All in all, this is quite the option we have here for you with some fantastic features on it. The Resuntek Lizard will allow smooth and long-distance fishing without any hiccups. You can even catch big fish too because of its high drag capacity. However, the grip handles don’t have any good padding to them, which may get a bit uncomfortable after some fishing sessions.
2. Variety of braking levels
3. Compact design and size
4. A high amount of Ball bearings guarantees a smooth experience
8) Goture Scotta Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear ratio: 7.1:1
- Dual brakes
- Max drag: 18Lb
- Ball bearings: 7+1
- Weighs: 7.4oz
- ABS Side plate
- EVA Grip Handle
A new entrant in our list of the best baitcasting reel under 100 Dollars is the Goture Scotta. The Scotta has an elegant design. The color combination of black and red couldn’t go any wrong. It has an extended handle with EVA grips that resist moisture and is comfortable to use. Graphite body and ABS side plates help with the Scotta being exceptionally lightweight.
The most impressive feature is its Dual Brake System; one of the brakes has a dialer that helps adjust it. Whereas the second one is the internal centrifugal brake, the DBS allows for a smooth reeling experience and is helpful for newbies. The 7.1:1 gear ratio is almost the perfect ratio according to many fishers. This allows good control and fast retrieval.
7+1 shielded bearing balls help to reel in a safe and friction-free manner, keeping your line safe from heating up at all times. Another key service, Goture provides a 6-month warranty after your purchase; this guarantees the user some safety. So, if you run into any problems, you could reach out to them. The Goture Scotta is surely one of our top picks for beginners.
2. Graphite lightweight body
3. 6-month warranty
4. Great color designs
9) Diwa LP200 Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear ratio: 6.3:1
- Max Drag: 18 lbs.
- Ball bearings: 12+1
- Weight: 6.7oz
- Line capacity: (mm/m) 0.3/110, 0.28/125, 0.26/140
The Diwa LP200 gets a spot in this list as it is for sure one of the best baitcasting reels for $100 in the market. As you can tell by its weight of just 6.7 oz., it’s effortless to carry and handle. The graphite body helps in minimizing the weight without affecting its sturdiness or life. The side plates are removable and can be cleaned.
The power to drag in 18 lbs. will surely assist you in catching a trophy fish for your collection. It has a medium-paced gearing ratio of 6.3:1. This is a recommended ratio for beginners at baitcasting reels. A high amount of ball bearings are made of Alloy stainless steel. It guarantees safe reeling without any friction generation and risks of snapping.
This is a perfect option for the people who are just getting into baitcasting reels and are on a lower budget. This is a beginner-friendly product, as we can tell by assessing all of its major specifications.
2. Very delicate in size and weight
3. Cheaper option
4. Frictionless ball bearings
10) FISHDROPS Luna Baitcasting Reel
Key Features:
- Gear Ratio: 6.3:1
- Weight: 7.4 oz.
- Ball bearings: 6+1
- Magnetic dialer brake system: 0-9
- Max drag: 12.12Lb
- Monofilament fishing line
Finally, wrapping up the best baitcasting reels for under $100, we have the FISHDROPS Luna. This is a cheap, lightweight baitcasting reel in the market; the black and white body is unique and will make you stand out among your partners. It is available in the right- and left-handed configurations and useable in Lakes, Stream, pools, Freshwater, and Boat fishing.
The brake system dial has a 0-9 adjustable level. This will help you guide the brake power according to your preference. The braking system is made even more efficient by the 6+1 ball bearings. They make sure that the breaks and reeling don’t cause any unnecessary pressure on the fishing line and help to keep it all smooth.
This list had a variety of different baitcasting reels with unique specifications. This product is the one with the lowest Max drag in this list with 12.12 Lb. This is not a wrong indication as this can perfectly suit a new person who is just getting into fishing. This is an easy, entry-level baitcasting reel, and its low price makes it a great option!
2. Fashionable black and white design
3. Can be used in almost all water bodies
4. Suitable for beginners
Benefits of Using Baitcasting Reel
Accuracy:
When it comes to the Baitcasting Reels, the accuracy of casting is second to none. The Spinning Reels are not as accurate as of the Baitcasting reels. You can easily pick a spot and cast your line exactly where you want. The feature of pinpoint is a big advantage of a baitcasting reel.
Fish Weight:
As we saw in our list of the best baitcasting reels, the max drag rates could catch much bigger fish like Bass and Catfish. The Max drag rate is a huge benefit when it comes to Baitcasting reels. This will surely enhance your trophy cabinet!
Thicker line:
Baitcasting Reels have a thicker line. This is not only durable but also enhances the castability of the fishing rod. Thicker lines are also easy to use under bad weather conditions. Another reason behind Baitcasting reels having thicker lines is that they can handle the drag pressure.
Durability:
When it comes to long life, then baitcasting reels beat the spinning reels by a mile! The design and materials are much better on baitcasting a reel, which adds to its robustness or sturdiness and increases its durability.
Buying Guide For the Best Baitcasting Reels under $100
Although we have gone through everything now before investing your money into a Baitcasting Reel, you should consider these essential factors first.
Body:
As we saw, the Baitcasting Reels are either made out of a Graphite body or an Aluminum one. The difference between them is simple. Graphite-made reels are cheaper and are lightweight, therefore easier to use. In comparison, aluminum is sturdier and more suited for rough use and can be used for much longer.
Handles:
Comfortability should never be compromised, even if you’re fishing. Thus, it is essential that you thoroughly realize what handle your pick from the list of ‘best baitcasters under 100 Dollars’ has. The basic EVA Grip is the most common one, but there are some Golf grips too.
Reel Design:
The Baitcasting Reels come in two types of designs; Round and Low-profile. The round style can hold heavier lines and is used for bigger baits. It requires more skill. On the contrary, the Low-profile style is much better looking and is easier to use.
Gear Ratio:
We briefly covered the gear ratios of every mentioned baitcasting reel. The ratio indicates how many times your spool is turned when you rotate the handle once counterclockwise. This ratio is used to understand how fast it can retrieve the bait; the higher it is, the more skill will require. These are the basic understanding of the ratios, 4:1 is slow, 6:1 is medium, and 8:1 is fast.
Conclusion
With all said and done, we can now conclude our review of the Best Baitcasting Reels under $100. We hope our thorough list of all the products helps you choose the most suitable possible Baitcasting Reel for yourself and let it be distinctive among your group of fishermen. The usage of Baitcasting Reel is a step towards being more skilled. With that, we wish you the best of luck on your journey as a fisherman!