Baitcaster reels are great tools for fishermen. The design of the reel gives unsurpassed performance compared to spinning reels. They allow the line to come off easier, weigh less, and are more durable. A good baitcaster will last many years also.
Baitcaster Design
A baitcaster to put it simply is a winch. They use gears to rotate the spool the same as a crane or a winch on jeeps. This gives more power when reeling in the fish. The design also allows for variations in gear ratios without giving up performance. A Baitcaster’s gearing for specific uses in fishing. The low ratios work well for larger fish and lures. The high ratios shine with fast-moving lure presentations.
Classic Round
The original baitcaster or level wind reel has come a long way since grandpa’s day. The older reels required heavier weight to cast and then did not cast very far. Today’s models feature better bearings and spool control features.
They use centrifugal braking a.k.a. pins on the spool. This allows casting farther with less weight and reduces backlashes. The features of these types make them the choice of catfish anglers. They also have lower ratios to allow reeling in bigger fish.
Low Profile
This is the baitcaster for bass and a few other species. These models are lighter in weight with added features also. It is common to have magnetic braking for the spool or centrifugal braking, however, some of the higher-priced reels have both cast control features.
Low-profile reels have many ratio options also. The design of various models works well for specific lures. Low ratios for slow presentations and higher ratios for faster presentations. This is a desirable option in bass fishing.
These reels come with larger handles for better cranking power. The handles and ratios are ideal for pulling bass out of cover. Handles too small making it hard to reel in big fish, but the lower ratio of some reels overcomes the small handle problem.
The spools hold enough lines in a compact size for any application. Using a braid adds to the capacity. Today’s lines are thinner, as a result, reels can be more compact.

Using a Baitcaster
The reason people shy away from baitcaster reels is backlashes. The reels have a reputation for them, however, unfounded on newer models. A properly set reel will only backlash because of an error by the user. People frequently try to cast too far or do not adjust the reel when changing lures. You need to adjust the brakes and possibly the tension knob for every lure change.
Another reason is the line. The line put on incorrectly causes the majority of backlashes. The reels require the line to have tension when spooled on. If the tension is too light it will not work right on the spool. This causes backlashes and digging in of the line. Digging in is when the line pulls down into the other line on the spool. Have a tackle shop spool the line or learn the correct way. This is a common mistake among newer users.
Adjusting the Baitcaster Reel
Adjusting the reel is easy and only takes a few seconds. Release the spool and watch the line fall. It should not go fast, the line needs controlled unspooling. Tighten the tension knob on the side of the reel. Then repeat the process. If it does the lure does not fall loosen the knob until it starts falling. The lure will fall at a controlled rate when properly set.
The other step is different depending on the reel. Magnetic reels make this step simple. On the side opposite the handle will be the cast control. Adjust it up until it works. The reels with pins require the opening of the reel some are easy to open, and some are not so easy. The reel may have a plate that rotates, if not.
The side opposite the handle needs removing, where you will find the pins. It will require a small screwdriver. Remove or open the cover and set the pins according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. A beginner may want to engage all pins and change them as they gain experience.
Conclusions
A baitcaster is preferred for bass, catfish, and other large fish. Properly set will increase the enjoyment of fishing. The quality of the reels has increased over the years, as a result, allowing more anglers to use them. Do not shy away from these reels because of backlashes. Reducing backlashes is possible in time. Using a baitcaster does take some experience. Practice in a field before using it for fishing if unfamiliar with the reel.
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John McIntyre