10 Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100 – 2018 Most Sought-After Options
Fishing can be an interesting activity but only if you have the right equipment. Baitcasting reels are among the most essential tools for real fishing hobbyists or enthusiasts. With the best baitcasting reel, you will have an easy time catching large fish. But what is the best baitcasting reel?
Well, it all depends on your needs and your budget because what might be the best reel for another person might not exactly be the best for you. Nonetheless, the best baitcast reel should give you adequate control over your lure and let you pull your catch with ease. To help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed 10 of the best baitcasting reels under 100 options perfect for novices and professional anglers.
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Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100 in the Market 2018 – Comparison Chart
1. KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Fishing Reel
If you have a very tight budget but still want to own a decent baitcasting reel, you should probably try this model by KastKing. The reel features 11+1 MaxiDur ball bearings that allow easy control over the reel and smooth long-range casting. But the best part is that the bearings are shielded and are corrosion resistant to withstand hardcore fishing.
And another thing, this baitcasting reel utilizes centrifugal and magnetic brake systems for great casting control. The brake system offers consistent braking pressure, prevents backlashes and is easy to adjust on the fly. With 7.0:1 brass gear ratio, this reel is versatile for almost any fishing situation because of faster lure retrieval.
In addition, this model features a carbon fiber drag system that provides up to 17.5 pounds of drag power. Also, the system is designed with 4 disc system for added smooth drag performance irrespective of the drag range. This means with this reel you have adequate power to tackle any big fish that comes your way.
You know what else? KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Fishing Reel has two color multi-ported whiffle style spool that is made from anodized aluminum for durability without adding any weight to the reel. What’s more, its line is braided making it ideal for bass fishing, kayak fishing and even trout fishing. Besides, it features stainless steel handle that is fitted with non-slip foam grips for maximum comfort when fishing for long periods.
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2. Piscifun NEW Torrent Baitcasting Reel, Right-Handed
Designed for all levels of baitcasters, this reel claims to offer everything that you need in a baitcast and at a very low price without compromising its performance. For starters, it features 5+1 stainless steel bearings that provide the reel with superior smoothness when casting. The bearing’s stainless steel construction gives them increased resistant to corrosion to lengthen their life.
Additionally, the reel boasts three-disc drag washers made from high-grade carbon fiber to provide you with plenty of stopping power. The drag system provides up to 18 pounds drag power which is adequate power to help you handle big catches with ease. In addition, it comes with CNC machined brass gear that offers 7.1:1 gear ratio for a fast and strong retrieve. The gears are built to be corrosion resistant for optimal durability, especially when fishing in saltwater.
To top it all, Piscifun NEW Torrent Baitcasting Reel spots an adjustable magnet brake. The brake can be adjusted from 0 to 10 ranges to allow maximum control when casting. Besides, the reel is equipped with double-line winding shafts that increase its stability and durability. So, even when there is wind drift, the reel promises to offer you incredible performance.
Last but not least, this model is fitted with a 4.33-inch extended handle without adding any weight. The handle offers a comfortable grip which is beneficial for all-day fishing trips. Also, it features a unique design with a screwed oil hole in the side plate for easy lubrication of the reel.
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3. KastKing Spartacus Maximus Metal Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Featuring centrifugal brake system, you don’t have to worry about backlashes while retrieving this baitcasting reel’s cast. The brakes are easy to access via an open side-plate for quick adjustments. Besides, the reel’s main components and the shaft are made of stainless steel while the frame and body from aluminum alloy which guarantees its durability, rigidity and optimal performance. Even better, the construction is corrosion resistant making it easy to maintain the reel.
With 10+1 shielded stainless steel bearing systems, this reel claims to offer smooth and precise long-range casting. This is coupled with a one-way instant-stop anti-reverse system that gives you added control when dragging while ensuring no handle slap-back for solid and easier hook set.
In addition, its spool is designed with CNC machined aero-grade aluminum for a smooth spin to fly baits far while reducing the overall weight of this reel. Also, the reel comes with a carbon fiber drag system that claims to deliver up to 25 pounds of stopping power. This is plenty of power and leverage for handling those big catches.
Equally important is its brass gears that spot 6.3:1 ratio. The gear system promises to offer anglers with enhanced precision and efficiency when fishing. More so, its line is braided and made of durable materials to ensure its longevity.
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Check out related article of ours on Best Spinning Reel, Best Baitcasting Reel Under 50, Best Baitcasting Reel Under 200, Best Fishing Kayak Under 500
4. KastKing Speed Demon 9.3:1 Baitcasting Fishing Reel
If you are looking for a fast baitcasting reel, this model from KastKing can be a good option. With 9.3:1 gear ratio, it claims to be the world’s fastest reel. Therefore, users can enjoy fast line retrieves with this reel. Besides, the gears are made of brass which makes the reel very durable hence you can use it in any tough condition.
The reel also features 3-disc carbon fiber drag system that promises to deliver up to 13.2 pounds drag power. While this is less power compared to other reels in the same price range, it is enough for handling big fish with ease. In addition, it is equipped with a stainless steel shaft that provides a more stable and durable winding.
But here is the real deal; the reel feature 12+1 super slick MaxiDur shielded bearings that allow smooth and effortless casts. Even better, the bearings are made from corrosion resistant materials for maximum durability. What’s more, it uses adjustable magnetic brakes along with cross-drilled aluminum spool to prevent backlashes.
Additionally, the reel is fitted with 115 mm high-torque handle that gives you the power to pull the biggest fish out of the waters while remaining easy on your hands. Besides, it spots sure-grip flat paddle EVA knobs on the handles for added control.
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5. Sougayilang AFL 10000 Big Spool Casting Fishing Reels
Featuring lightweight aluminum spool with high tensile gears, this reel claims to offer smooth and efficient casting. The spool is big to allow less severe line coiling while also minimizing the overall weight of the reel. In addition, the reel is fully adjustable for greater cast control. As such, you can use it in almost all kinds of fishing situations and lure.
With 10 stainless-steel bearing system along with a single roller bearing, this reel model from Sougayilang is built to provide smooth performance. The bearings are corrosion resistant and sturdy hence will last you for a long period of time with proper care. Also, the reel boasts a one-way bearing clutch that ensures quick hook-sets.
For the price, this reel has a lower gear ratio of 4.7:1. But because of its big spool, users can enjoy fast line retrieve. In addition, the reel includes CNC machined aluminum handle. The handle is collapsible with left/ right interchangeable feature and a soft touch for a comfortable grip. Also, the handle is lightweight hence you can use the reel all day without worrying about fatigue.
Additionally, it uses a carbon fiber drag system that is designed with durability in mind. The system claims to offer plenty of drag power for handling even the biggest catches. It also comes with a line-lay oscillation system that ensures its smooth performance.
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6. Piscifun NEW Torrent Baitcasting Reel, Left-Handed
Just because you are left-handed doesn’t mean you should have a hard time finding a baitcasting reel that suits your needs. Piscfun has designed this model specifically for left-handed anglers. The reel boasts 3-disc drag washers made from high-grade carbon for durability. What’s more, the drag system provides up to 18 pounds drag power for handling big fish with ease.
With 0 to 10 adjustable magnetic brake systems, you don’t have to worry about backlashes. Furthermore, you will be in a position make long-range casts using various lure weights. In addition, the reel comes with 5+1 stainless steel bearings that ensure its durability and smooth operation throughout.
When it comes to performance, it boasts CNC machined brass gears with 7.1:1 gear ratio. This contributes to the reel’s fast line retrieve and long lifespan. It also features an extended crank handle made of lightweight and strong aluminum construction. The handle has a comfortable grip and provides anglers plenty of leverage and power for pulling the largest catch out of the waters.
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7. New KastKing Assassin Carbon Baitcasting Reel
At only 5.7 ounces, this is probably the lightest baitcasting reel available on the market. It boasts carbon construction for the body, handle and side plates for great weight savings and added rigidity. You can, therefore, use the reel all day without worrying about fatigue. Besides, its construction is corrosion resistant for added durability.
But here is the best part; the reel features 4-disc carbon-fiber drag system that claims to offer up to 16.5 pounds drag power. No doubt, this is more than enough stopping power for a smooth casting experience if at all it leaves up to its claims. Also, it comes with 11+1 MaxiDur bearings along with an instant stop anti-reverse feature for incredible casting and quick hook sets.
In addition, New KastKing Assassin Carbon Baitcasting Reel spots dual braking system featuring dynamic six-pin magnetic and centrifugal brakes. The brakes are built to allow laser-focus casting accuracy even when there is wind drift. On top of that, the reel is advertised to have a 6.3:1 gear ratio which makes line retrieves fast and easy.
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8. KastKing Stealth Baitcasting Reel
This is yet another super light-weight baitcasting reel from KastKing. It comes at only 6 ounces featuring durable carbon fiber construction. As such, you can use it for long hours without getting fatigued thereby making casting fun and exciting. Also, it includes hard-forged aluminum gears that claim to offer 7.0:1 gear ratio thereby allowing fast retrieves without sacrificing on the reel’s strength.
On top of that, it is equipped with 11 bearing systems along with instant-stop one-way clutch that delivers accurate long-range casts and allows quick hook-sets.
Besides, the bearings are shielded and made from anti-corrosion materials for enhanced performance. Also, it boasts aircraft-grade aluminum spool that is light enough to minimize fatigue but strong enough to withstand any abuse.
In addition, it is designed with dual brakes that utilizes a 4-pin and combines the best of magnetic and centrifugal braking. The brakes can quickly be accessed via the open side hatch for any sort of adjustment. This makes it easy to obtain even the longest casts while providing great control over a wide range of fishing situations.
KastKing Stealth Baitcasting Reel also features what seems to be a powerful drag system with 4 carbon discs. The drag system is capable of providing up to 16.5 pounds drag power which is adequate stopping power for the price.
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9. Abu Garcia Pro Max Low Profile Reel, PMAX3
Abu Garcia is one the well-known brands that have been manufacturing fishing gear including spinning reels and baitcasting reels for a number of years. They have a long line of baitcasting reels and this model is one of their best and inexpensive innovations. At 7.4 ounces, this reel is lightweight and portable. It, therefore, makes a great reel for anglers who like casting for extended hours because it does not cause fatigue.
When it comes to durability, the reel boasts one-piece graphite frame and graphite side plates which make it more lightweight and scratch-resistant without compromising on its durability. Its spool, on the other hand, is made from machined double anodized aluminum that helps in maintaining the reel’s lightweight feature.
The reel also spots 7 stainless steel bearings plus one roller bearing system that contribute to a smooth casting experience. Being made from stainless steel gives the reel an increased protection from corrosion. Besides, its drag system features power disc system that allows efficient and more fluid line retrieve throughout the entire drag range. This makes it easy and effortless to catch those hard pulling fish.
And another thing, this baitcasting reel comes with a MagTrax brake system that claims to provide consistent brake pressure throughout. You can, therefore, use the reel with a wide range of lures and in different casting conditions without worrying about accuracy. Thanks to its Duragear brass gear, this reel can be used in extreme saltwater environments and still offer incredible performance even with years of use.
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10. Sougayilang Baitcast Reel, Low Profile
With 11+1 MaxiDur shielded bearings that are corrosion resistant; this baitcasting reel claims to offer anglers the smoothest and powerful performance. Its drag system features 3-disc drag made from carbon fiber that makes the reel durable. According to the manufacturer, the drag system is capable of delivering up to 18 pounds stopping power. If the claims are true, then the reel can handle even the biggest and most vicious fish.
On top of that, the reel comes with 0 to 9 magnetic braking system that gives the user on-the-fly tournament-ready adjustments. The shafts feature double-line winding feature for increased winding durability as well as stability. In addition, it boasts CNC machined aluminum spool that makes casting smooth because of being light in weight.
Additionally, this model is fitted with machined brass gear that boasts 7.0:1 gear ratio. This is a great ratio for anglers who love high-speed casting. Being made from bass makes the reel strong and resilient especially when used in extreme saltwater conditions. Weighing around 7.09 ounces, it is lightweight just in case you will be fishing all day.
But the best part about this baitcasting reel is the fact that it can be used with any fishing line thanks to its ceramic insert-line guide. Moreover, it features a rubber cork handle that is slip resistant with a soft-touch and over-sized knobs to provide anglers comfortable grip even when it is wet. But what really makes it light in weight is its carbon construction for the handle, side plates and the body.
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Buying Guide – Which is the Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100 For You?
Spool Size
The spool size of your reel will depend on the size of fish you will be pursuing. Therefore, if you are going to be pursuing bigger and heavy fish, you should go for a reel with a bigger spool. This is because you will be using a heavier line which will take up a lot of space on the spool. Small sized spools are suitable for pursuing small fish because you will need a lighter line.
Frame Construction
With frame being the foundation of the reel, it is important to find a reel with a high-quality frame. After all, a low quality frame means the reel will break with few uses thereby forcing you to buy another reel. Most reels boast aluminum frame because aluminum is lightweight while still being sturdy. Graphite frames are also common but the material is not very durable and stable like aluminum. So to be on the safe side, always go for baitcasting reels with aluminum frame.
Comfort
Purchasing a reel that does not feel comfortable in your hands means you will not enjoy your fishing excursion yet fishing is supposed to be fun and exciting. A comfortable reel will help you cast with improved accuracy and will not compromise your effectiveness as an angler. While comfort of the reel depends a lot on your preferences, reels with oversized/extended handles and soft rubber knobs offer better comfortable grip. With an oversized handle, you will also have plenty of torque to winch large fish out.
Gear Ratio
Gear ratio is defined as the number of times the spool turns when the reel’s handle is rotated once. It normally affects the speed of line retrieve. The most common gear ratios for baitcasting reels under 100 include 7.0:1 and 7.1:1. Basically, the greater the gear ratio which is the fast number, the faster the line retrieves using less effort hence you will not get fatigued quickly. To know which is the right gear ratio for your needs, you need to factor in the kind of lures you’ll be using. For instance, if you are going to be using Texas rigs, jigs, spinnerbaits or soft plastics, the best reel is one with higher gear ratio.
Braking System
If you want to have easy time fishing, you need to invest in a reel with a decent braking system. Most reels feature dual braking systems including magnetic and centrifugal brakes. However, some units only utilize one braking system. A good braking system should be able to reduce backlashes and allow the user to make accurate long casts using different lure weights. If you want a reel that offers smooth performance and greater control, you should go for models with a dual braking system.
Conclusion
Just because the baitcasting reels in this review are relatively inexpensive does not mean they are low quality. You might even be surprised that some of them offer better performance than some premium reels. So, don’t be fooled that spending a lot of money on a reel will guarantee a good quality product. The best baitcasting reel under 100 run-down is rich with options for you to ponder upon.