Baitcasting Reels

10 Best Reels for Bass Fishing 2023 ( Spinning and Baitcasting Reel )

Best Reel for Bass Fishing
Written by John Carter

All the anglers wish to get big lures and catch bass and heavy fish. But the main point is that is it possible to catch bass fish? Yes, it is possible with the help of Fishing rods and reels. But a lot of spinning and baitcasting reels are available in the market. Who to find that’s which reel remains best for bass fishing as we want. If you don’t know, today, we will guide you on the best reels for bass fishing.

Our Top Picks

EDITOR’S CHOICE
Abu Garcia Revo SX 
Abu Garcia Revo SX 
9.7
  • Gear ratio equipped with Dragger brass is:6.6:1
  • Weight: 7.7 ounces
  • Monoline capacity:175yd/10lb
  • Braided line capacity:140yd/30lb 
PREMIUM PICK
Lew's Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP
Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP
9.5
  • Drag power:15lbs
  • Gear ratio: 7.5:1
  • Mono line capacity:110yd/12LB
  • Braided line capacity:110yd/50lb
BUDGET PICK
 Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel 
Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel 
9.3
  • Gear ratio:6.2:1
  • Weight: 16oz
  • Drag power:30lbs
  • Line capcity:1/3,2/3

Top 10 Bass Fishing Reels

Here we find five spinning reels for bass fishing and five baitcasting reels for bass fishing. After testing, we find out that these are the best fishing reels.

Best Baitcasting Reels for Bass Fishing

Many fishing reels are available for bass fishing, but we find out ten good fishing reels for bass. In which there are five baitcasting reels and five are spinning reels included. First, we explained the five best baitcaster reels for bass. These are the top brands baitcaster in which Shimano bass reel, Abu Garcia bait caster for bass are included.

1. Abu Garcia Revo SX 

 best bass fishing reels

key specifications

  • Gear ratio equipped with Dragger brass is:6.6:1
  • Ten balls bearings:9 stainless steel + 1 roller bearing
  • Power stack carbon matrix drag system is: 24pounds
  • Weight: 7.7 ounces
  • Monoline capacity:175yd/10lb
  • Braided line capacity:140yd/30lb 

“Low Profile Fishing Reel for bass”

Revo SX baitcaster is the most powerful fishing reel for bass, the famous brand Abu Garcia baitcaster. Its body, handle, spool and, side plates are coated with corrosion-resistant aluminum material. Corrosion-resistant material saved it in the saltwater and harshest environment—the frame alloy with X2-Crafts, which provides more safety from corrosion.

Its features include 10 ball-bearing, 24 lbs.’ drag power, and a 6.6.1 gear ratio. 10 ball bearings system contains 9 stainless steel ball-bearing + 1 roller bearing which provides smooth casting operation from the long distance.24lbs drag power means its capacity of dragging is 24pounds which is enough for bass fishing. 24 pounds is a great power, and you can easily use it for bass fishing or heavy fish. And the last thing is that its gear ratio is 6.6:1, which is not larger or smaller.

A large gear ratio does not give us more strength, while a small gear ratio does not speed. Its means regular gear ratio is the best choice which provides us both speed and strength. Dragger brass gear is used in gear function, giving more protection and increasing gear life.

The reel is equipped with the Power stack carbon matrix drag System. It is a sintered carbon fiber drag system that is ultra-smooth and ultra-strong. The carbon matrix drag system features C6 carbon side plates and an X2-Craftic alloy frame. It delivers a smooth, consistent drag pressure across the entire range. The Dragger brass gear, stainless steel main gear, and Power stack carbon matrix drag System help it deliver a smooth and fast retrieve.

2. Shimano Tranx 500 Fishing Reel

shimano bass reels

key specifications

  • Maximum drag power: 25lbs
  • Gear ratio: 6.3:1
  • Ball-bearing: 7 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearings
  • Line retrieval rate per crank of the handle is 43″.
  • Braided line capacity:50lbs/420yds
  • Monoline capcity:40lbs/100yds

“Best baitcaster for bass fishing”

Shimano Tranx 500 Fishing Reel is one of the best baitcasting reels in Bass Fishing. It is made of a corrosion-resistant and robust body. It works smoothly. For the price, it’s the best baitcasting reel I’ve ever used. I’m very impressed with the smoothness; I can control the fish quickly with this reel, and the drag system works perfectly; it is perfect for beginners and pros.

  • Revolutionary

 Shimano Tranx 500 has a unique 6.3:1 ratio, a new level of performance unmatched by any other reels. It also features a unique Maintenance-Free Drag System.

  • Powerful-

The new Shimano Tranx 500 Fishing Reel is an excellent choice for anglers who want to reel in big fish without breaking the bank. The Shimano Tranx 500 Fishing Reel features Shimano’s x-ship technology that provides a mighty cranking power with a smooth, effortless retrieve.

  • Durable

It is constructed of metal frames that keep all moving parts in precise alignment and features the latest anodizing, plating, and painting techniques for beautiful and durable finishes.  Choose The Right Model For The Right Application

The Shimano Tranx 500 features a range of models to cover a broad spectrum of fishing applications.

The Shimano Tranx 500 offers all the benefits of a Shimano bait cast reel with the added benefit of a lighter, more compact design. The result is a reel that will perform on any angling adventure. Shimano Tranx reels offer various gear ratios to ensure the right gear for every angling application.

3. Lew’s Mach I Speed Spool

Best Reels for Bass Fishing

key specifications

  • Maximum drag power:15lbs
  • Gear ratio:5.3:1
  • 8 ball bearings
  • Monoline capcity:12lbs/140yd
  • Braided line capcity:50lbs/140yd
  • Weight:7.3oz

“Best Bass Fishing Reel for beginner”

  • The Lew’s Mach 1 features an 8-bearing system and an on-the-fly adjustable tension. It has a slim, lightweight design that provides total control.
  • Lew’s Mach 1 speed spool is designed for a long cast and retrieves with the extreme power of the Speed Spool Concept.
  • It is designed with a graphite frame and side plates, lightweight yet durable. It also ensures that the reel is corrosion resistant.
  • The 8 bearing system enables the reel to retrieve line with less effort, and the zero reverse 1-way clutch system allows the spool to freewheel in one direction. This minimizes back to play, reduces wear & tear on your arm, and makes setting the hook effortless.
  • This reel has a solid brass 5.3:1 gear system for extreme power and strength. It features a machined aluminum handle and side plate, a solid brass main shaft, and an anodized aluminum spool. 
  • The new Mach I Speed Spool – MSB delivers unparalleled braking in all saltwater conditions. The Mach I MSB features an external click-dial for setting the magnetic brake. The Mach I MSB has 4 individually-disengage-able disk-mounted internal brake shoes that operate on centrifugal force.

I was looking for a new baitcaster reel to add to my collection, and I found this one. This Lew’s Mach I Speed Spool is an excellent choice if looking for a high-quality reel. It is designed to handle the most challenging fish and durable parts to last. And you know the best part? This reel is available for a fraction of the price of other baitcasting reels in the market!

Lew’s Mach I Speed Spool provides an incredible line lay and cast while standing up to the wear and tear of saltwater fishing. The reel can hold the power of a big fish without breaking. The reel has a fast 7.3:1 retrieve with 15 pounds of max drag.

I fished with this reel for the first time, and I was more comfortable with it than any other brand I have tried. It comes with many features, like the Digigear technology, that allow a smoother performance in any fishing conditions. I used it in a tournament, and I caught a lot of fish and had to fight with them because it is a heavy-duty fishing reel. The best thing about it is that it has a stainless steel body that allows it to be in the water for many days without rusting, and it has a soft-grip handle, so it does not hurt your hand when you are fighting with a fish.

4.13 FISHING Inception Sport Z Baitcast Reel

 good fishing reels

key specifications

  • Max drag power: 18 lbs.
  • Weight:6.7ounce
  • Gear ratio:7.3:1
  • 8 Ball bearings: 2 CZBs + 5 SSBB + 1 A/R
  • Brake system: 6-way centrifugal brake system 
  • Right-handed orientation

“Best Reels for Bass Fishing in both saltwater and freshwater”

  • 6-Way Centrifugal Braking System 

13 Fishing Inception Sport Z Baitcast Reels allows you to make the reel cast when you want to, not when you need to. You can cast unlimited distances. The 6-way centrifugal braking system and Beetle Wing rapid access side plates create superb anti-backlash and accurate long casting distance.

  • Japanese Hamai Cut Gearing

13 Fishing Inception Sport Z offers incredible precision and control. It is the perfect reel for beginners and intermediate anglers. The bait cast reel comes with a Japanese Hamai Cut gearing. The advanced drag system will help you fight fish with ease.

  • Protection from saltwater

The Inception SZ keeps your reel and gear at peak performance and durability. It features a one-way clutch bearing for smooth retrieves and an entire metal body to protect the gears, which is excellent for saltwater anglers.

  • Modern Features

The 13 Fishing Inception Sport Z delivers incredible casting performance for an affordable price. The reel’s Instant Stop Anti-Reverse makes the reel easier to use, reduces wear and tear to components, and ensures that you are able to land your catch quickly.

13 Fishing Reels are some of the best reels available. The latest technology is packed into these reels, and the craftsmanship is superb. The Inception Sport Z is an excellent reel for any angler looking for a quality reel without breaking the bank. It has a smooth drag and is perfect for any angler looking for a reel that can handle light to medium tackle.

This is an excellent baitcasting fishing reel. I got this because I do bass fishing, and I was looking for a high-quality reel that would be reliable and not a piece of junk. I’d heard that 13 fishing was the best fishing reel brand, and they are. This is a great product.

13 Fishing is a brand known for making quality fishing gear, and this baitcasting reel is no different. It comes with many features that make it easy to use and help make the cast. The spool is made of carbon fiber, which is lightweight and durable. This makes it easy to use. Another impressive feature of this product is the 13 disc drag system. It makes the reel stronger and can be used to fight the fish. The brakes are another feature that will interest you. They make the cast easier. 

5. Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcast Reel

 best spinning reel for bass fishing

key specifications

  • Five premium ball bearings: 4+1 double sheilded stainless steel ball bearings.
  • Hand Orientation:left-handed
  • Drag power:15lbs
  • Gear ratio: 7.5:1
  • Mono line capacity:110yd/12LB
  • Braided line capacity:110yd/50lb

“Best baitcasting reel for bass fishing in affordable price”

  • Lew’s SLP graphite frames and side plates are lighter, stronger, and smoother, with a higher performance-to-weight ratio than standard aluminum alloy. SLP graphite provides longer casting distances and improved line capacity.
  • Lew’s Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcaster Reel has a premium 4+1 bearing system with stainless steel double shielded bearings and a Zero Reverse one-way clutch. Combined with the carbon fiber drag system and anodized magnesium spool, these features add up to a baitcaster that is lightweight, powerful, and smooth.
  • The new Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcast Reel features Lew’s new externally adjustable Magnetic Control System, an advanced design that provides superior magnetic control and speed. The MCS also delivers a smooth, crisp feel that anglers have come to expect in Lew’s reel.
  • Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcast Reel – Machine, anodized, large capacity aluminum 32mm spool. Graphite drag star. Durable Rulon drag system provides up to 15lbs. of drag power is a great reel for catching bass fishing. The gear ratio is 7.5:1. The line capacity is 300 yds.
  • Pro Speed Spool SLP is a feature-packed reel that you can use for inshore saltwater fishing, kayak fishing, and sight-casting. It features an aluminum spool tension cap, anodized spool, aluminum handle, anodized aluminum bail wire, and a one-way clutch anti-reverse bearing.

The Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcast Reel is one of the best budget fishing reels money can buy. Fishing is one of my favorite pastimes, but I do not have the money to spend on expensive reels. This high-quality reel is a must-have for anyone looking to purchase their first baitcasting reel. It has a lightweight graphite frame, a high-speed 7.5:1 gear ratio, and a 1-piece aluminum spool. The front and rear drag systems are smooth and easy to adjust, perfect for any fishing situation.

The Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP Baitcast Reel is a fantastic fishing reel that makes an excellent gift for your son, daughter, or yourself. This fishing reel comes with a graphite frame and side plates and has three drains. The handle and spool are very smooth, and the reel is easy to cast. I love that this fishing reel is so lightweight and easy to use. The Classic Pro is one of the best budget fishing reels money can buy.

Best Spinning Reel for Bass Fishing

Spinning reels are mostly used for small fish, catfish in the river, and pools. A few powerful spinning reels are available which are used for bass fishing. We pick up some of the best spinning reels for bass fishing among those spinning reels.

After testing, we pick the five best spinning reels for bass fishing. These are the best fishing reel for bass fishing. Choose one of the best reels for bass fishing and enjoy.

1. Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel 

 best spinning reel for bass

key specifications

  • Gear ratio:6.2:1
  • Nine-ball bearings:8 stainless steel hpcr bearings+1 roller bearing
  • Drag power: correct drag pressure does not describe any seller, but I feel its drag power is near 17 pounds.
  • Weight:1pounds
  • Material: stainless steel

“Best Abu Garcia brand spinning reel for bass fishing in low price”

  • The Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel features eight stainless steel hour Bearings + 1 roller bearing for increased corrosion protection.
  • The Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel features an am gearing system that provides precision machined gears for unparalleled smoothness and durability. The gearing system provides a smooth transition between the crank and the gear, so the spool accelerates faster and delivers more power to the line.
  • This Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel is built with a carbon matrix drag system. It’s the same drag system used at the top of the line Abu Garcia reels. The Carbon Matrix Hybrid Drag System uses carbon fiber washers to produce effortless Super Smooth Drag performance.
  • The Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel is a high-performance reel with a lightweight design. The reel is made from C6 and 6061-T6 aluminum alloys, which keeps the weight to a minimum without sacrificing strength. These features make it one of the best spinning reels for bass fishing.

Abu Garcia is the leading fishing brand in the world, and they’ve got a wide variety of fishing gear to choose from. The Revo SX is a solid and affordable spinning reel perfect for bass fishing. I’ve used this product many times, and I’ve never had any problems with it. It is a reliable spinning reel that I’d recommend to anyone looking to catch some bass.

Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel is the best spinning reel. When you cast it, you will find it is very smooth. When you fight a fish, you will find it is compelling and intense. It is very lightweight, and the body of the reel is solid. I love it, and I would love to recommend it to you.

2. KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel

 top bass fishing reels

key specifications

  • Gear ratio:7.2:1
  • 11 Ball bearings system: 10 double-shielded balls bearing + 1 anti-reverse
  • Maximum drag power: 39 to 40 pounds(lbs)
  • Weight: 0.92pounds
  • Material: Aluminum

“Most selling reel for bass fishing”

  • The Sharky III is a high-performance, smooth-casting reel built tough to handle the big ones. It is one of the best reels on the market.
  • The KastKing Sharky III features a lightweight graphite frame and side plates, a smooth-casting stainless steel ball-bearing system, a quality one-piece die-cast aluminum handle, a double-anodized spool, a quick-release handle for easy spool changes, plus a non-slip handle.
  • The Sharky III will cast farther and faster, while the Carbon Fiber Drag System will ensure that you have the power to fight with the big fish.
  • KastKing Sharky III spinning reel is an excellent value for the money. It is specially designed to handle the most challenging fish and extreme conditions. It’s a perfect reel for bass fishing in both fresh and saltwater.
  • The KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel features an aluminum alloy main spool and rotor for added strength and durability. It has a 7.2:1 high-speed retrieve and smooth drag performance.

I have been fishing for years and looking for a new reel that would last and be of high quality. I had a hard time finding one that would not rip me off since I was a first-time buyer. Then I found this fantastic reel with everything I could ask for and more. It has a nice look, feels sturdy in your hands, and is easy to set up. I love the built-in filter so you can attach the fish line without a mess. I recommend this to all of my fishing buddies.

3. KastKing Summer and Centron Spinning Reels

 best spinning reel for bass

key specifications

  • Gear ratio:6.2:1
  • Ball bearings: 9 quality ball bearings +one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing
  • Drag power: 17.5pounds
  • Weight: 9.5oz
  • Material: aluminum and graphite

“Best spinning reel for bass fishing under 50$”

  • Equipped with an upgraded drag system, the KastKing Summer Fishing Reel offers anglers customizable drag settings for any situation.
  • The KastKing Spinning Reel is a great gift for anybody who loves fishing. The reels are a narrow graphite frame design. A computer balancing system combined with high performance in the compact spinning reel makes KastKing Summer/Centron an incredible gift for anyone who loves fishing.
  • KastKing Summer/Centron reel’s superior drag systems outperform all comparable reels in the market. It offers incredible stopping power up to 17.5LBs with a stainless steel main gear and a machined brass pinion gear.

Summer/Centron’s nine quality ball bearings and one instant stop one-way anti-reverse bearing give it ultra-smooth performance

The price is great; it’s a very smooth and significant drag. I have used it for a year now, and it’s still solid. Not only is this reel affordable, but it’s also very durable and smooth to operate. It’s effortless to use, and it comes with all the features you need to catch big fish or bass fish, which makes it a good value. The only thing that I don’t like is that the spool sometimes comes off while fishing, but that’s a minor issue.

I have used several fishing reels in my life, but I have never seen one so impressive as the KastKing Spinning Reel. I was in Amazon looking for a good quality product that I could use on my fishing trips when I came across this one. Because I had heard of the sound, quality reputation of KastKing, I decided to order it. The first time I used it, I was amazed at how fantastic it was! It performed like a professional and made me look like a pro. The reeling was very smooth, and the drag was powerful enough to slow down even large, fighting fish. I love this product!

4. PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel 

best bass fishing reels

key specifications

  • Gear ratio:5.3:1
  • Ball-bearing: 5 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 anti-reverse bearing
  • Weight: 16oz
  • Drag power:30lbs
  • Line capcity:1/3,2/3
  • Colors: three different colors, black, gold, and smoke

“Most durable reel for bass fishing”

  • PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel features a carbon-composite body with a side plate that is light and durable. The EVA grips are comfortable and secure, and the die-cast metal star provides smooth operation.
  • PENN Battle II & III Spinning Reel is great for larger fish. The solid and smooth drag system will let you land the biggest fish. The quality of the reel will hold up to years of use. The reel feels great in your hands and is a pleasure to use.
  • PENN Battle II & III fishing reels are high-quality fishing reels specially designed for the avid angler. These fishing reels are perfect for freshwater fishing and are fully equipped for saltwater use.
  • PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel – Multi-stop anti-reverse and ball bearing deliver smooth performance for all types of fishing. The PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel – Multi-stop anti-reverse and ball bearing deliver smooth performance provides a powerful drag.
  • High-performance centrifugal brakes provide resistance-free cranking with a smooth, steady retrieve.
  • PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel – Super line spool requires no backing, is braid ready, and has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity.

 I’ve caught a number of big fish with these spinning reels, and the drag system is top-notch. It has a 6-bearing system, and it has a lot of power and strength. I use it for all sorts of activities in and out of the water. The speed is very fast, and the crank is very smooth. It is so easy to cast. With the PENN Battle II and PENN Battle III, you’ll be glad that you made the right decision for a spinning reel. Highly recommend!

It is so smooth, and I enjoy using it when I go out fishing. I also like the way it looks. It is a nice combination of a good-looking reel and a heavy-duty one that you can use for years to come. It is perfect for fishing for all kinds of fish, especially bass fishing. 

5. Shimano Sedona FI Spinning Reel

top bass fishing reels

key specifications

  • Maximum drag power:24pounds
  • Gear ratio:4.6:1
  • Ball bearings: 3 ball bearings+1 roller bearing
  • Weight: 1.2pounds
  • Power Pro line capacity: 40/340, 
  • Monoline capacity: 12/345,

“Best Shimano brands spinning reel for bass fishing”

  • The Sedona reel is designed to handle the harshest fishing conditions and provide superior durability and longevity. The reel is also designed to be lighter than other reels in its class for ease of use.
  • The Sedona features a four-bearing system with a Hagane Gear Train, an advanced Ceramic Line Guide System, and a multi-disc Carbonite drag system. It is designed to fish from a kayak or canoe near the shore or your favorite pier.
  • Shimano Sedona FI Spinning reel gives anglers the strength for inshore and offshore action. The drag pressure can be adjusted to the preferred setting with the push of a button. With the smoothness and durability of HAGANE gearing, anglers can enjoy the sport without any worries.
  • The Sedona Fi spinning reel features a powerful 4.6:1 gear ratio, perfect for anglers looking to reel in bass and other large fish. It is designed with a new gear ratio and a new braking system, making it easier to land big fish and enjoy long hours on the water.
  • The Propulsion Line Management System makes casting more accessible and reduces the stress on your arm and wrist. It also allows you to cast farther than you usually would.

I read many reviews about this product online, and I decided to get one. I’ve had it for over a year now, and it still works like new. It’s very durable and powerful, and I use it for fishing for bass at least 2-3 times a week. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality spinning reel at a great price.

I have bought many Shimano reels in the past and have also tried Penn and Abu Garcia reels. But my experience with Shimano has been the best. I have tried this model on my trip to Amazon. It’s mighty, smooth, and cheaper than other brands.

It is freaking amazing and straightforward to use. I love it. The drag is super smooth, and the build quality is sturdy and robust.

Buying Guide

This article described the five best baitcasting reels for bass fishing and the five best spinning reels for bass fishing. Most of the reels are affordable and corrosion-resistant. These are the best reels for bass fishing. Just choose out one of them which you want.

If you are a beginner and going to catch the bass fish for the first time, then I recommend you spin reels because they are easy to use, and their price range is low. These are the best reels specially designed for bass fishing and heavier fish. But KastKing Summer and Centron Spinning Reels are my favourite because they are coming at a much affordable price, and they have performed such a smooth operation.

If you are a regular or expert angler, then go-to baitcasting reels because baitcasting reels are designed with modern techniques. They performed better than the spinning reel, and they gave more power during the dragging. But these are a little expensive as compared to spinning reels. Shimano Tranx 500 Fishing Reel is one of the best-recommended reel for bass fishing

Now it’s your time to pick the best reel for bass fishing and take one more setup.

          Best of luck

1. What is the best fishing reel?

A lot of the best fishing reels are available in the market but here are the ten best fishing reels for bass fishing.
1. Shimano Sedona FI Spinning Reel
2. Abu Garcia Revo SX
3. Shimano Tranx.
4. Lew’s Mach I Speed Spool.
5. 13 FISHING – Inception Sport Z –
6. Lew’s Classic Pro Speed Spool SLP
7. Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel
8. KastKing Sharky III Fishing Reel
9. KastKing Summer and Centron Spinning Reels
10. PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel

2. What size reel is best for bass fishing?

A lot of different size fishing reels are available but the recommended size of the reel is:
reel size, line strength, drag power
1. 2000 , 5-6lb , 8-12lb
2. 2500 , 8-10lb , 10-15lb
3. 3000 , 10-15lb , 20-30lb



About the author

John Carter

Hi, I'm John and living in Florida. I'm a well-known writer and known to be the author of most of the articles published on various fishing reel sites. I am an avid fisherman and expert when it comes to fishing reels. I'm also a part-time lecturer in the university and conduct classes on fishing reels and fishing rods.