Fishing can be an interesting adventure, right? But only if you are doing everything right.
As you know, you need to be casting the right way. And that’s where the need for a fishing reel comes in.
Unfortunately, fishing reels are quite expensive these days. So, if you want good value for money, you’re better off narrowing down your search to the best baitcasting reel under 100 category.
Baitcasting reels provide you with lots of control over your cast. However, not all are capable of providing you with the confidence you need to face the saltwater monsters.
In the next few paragraphs, we’d like to walk you through some of the leading options available. And hopefully, with this knowledge, you’ll be able to make an informed bet.
Affordable 12 Best Baitcasting Reels Under 100 Dollars: Comparison Table
Before we review each one of the 12 reels in our radar, we’d like to first provide you with an informative table. Here it is.
| Ranking | Name | Material | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hunter’s Tail Fishing Reel | Carbon Fiber | 10.4 ounces |
| 2 | Lews SPEED SPOOL LFS BAITCASTING REEL | Aluminum | 9.6 ounces |
| 3 | Piscifun Torrent Right Handed 7.1:1 Baitcasting Reel | Carbon Fiber | 10.4 ounces |
| 4 | Piscifun Phantom Carbon Baitcasting Reel | Carbon Fiber | 9.3 ounces |
| 5 | Abu Garcia BMAX3-C Baitcast Fishing Reel | Graphite | 8.8 ounces |
| 6 | Daiwa Reels Cast Low Profilebaitcast Reel | Aluminum | 9.9 ounces |
| 7 | KastKing Speed Demon Baitcasting Fishing Reel | Polyester | 11.36 Ounces |
| 8 | Ardent Apex Tournament Baitcasting Reel | aluminum | – |
| 9 | Abu Garcia PMAX3-L Pro Max Baitcast Fishing Reel | Graphite | 10.5 ounces |
| 10 | Quantum Accurist PT LP Baitcast Reel | Aluminum | 36.8 ounces |
| 11 | Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcasting Reels | – | – |
| 12 | Lixada Baitcasting Reel | Nylon | 10.56 ounces |
1. KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Fishing Reel
This reel works at high speed since it has a 7.0:1 brass gear ratio with 11 + 1 noise-free level and its ceramic guide line is compatible with braided and monofilament fishing lines. These features provide optimal baitcasting performance.
The handle on the fishing reel is made of stainless steel and it is oversized for total control of the line. Furthermore, the handle is non-slip with padded EVA foam to wick moisture away for comfortable gripping.
Key Features
This baitcaster has modern dual brakes that are effective in enabling you to have complete control when using the reel. The brakes are centrifugal and magnetic to facilitate a fine-tuning, thus the ability to eliminate backlash.
Also, the ball bearings used on this reel are resistant to corrosion that may be caused by sand or corrosive particles in water.
As you know, rusting can make casting a difficult task, the same as retrieval since the bearings would fail to move as required.
Pros
- The handles are padded and non-slip
- The spool is light in weight to prevent wrist strain
- The ball bearings are resistant to corrosion
- The dual brake system is efficient
Cons
- The tension knob stays in place only at the highest setting
2. Lews SPEED SPOOL LFS BAITCASTING REEL
The handle on this reel is made of anodized aluminum that is durable enabling you to control the reel with ease. Furthermore, the SoftTouch paddle knobs make the handle comfortable for those long fishing trips that have you holding for many hours.
The bearing system on Lews reel is double shielded with stainless steel for corrosion resistance and smooth movement.
Moreover, the brass bearing is solid. It’s just the right thing for high strength performance.
The reels clutch is also clearly built to last thereby giving you a better fighting chance against feisty fish species.
Key Features
The star drag brake system produces an audible click when functioning. This seems like a good baitcaster but the drag stars are brittle with a tendency to bend then break when being straightened, it would be better to get a reel with sturdy drag stars.
The Magnetic Control System on the reel gives you the ability to make adjustments whenever necessary when experiencing fluctuating weather conditions to get to use the right lures. With this reel, your fishing experience is likely to be memorable.
Pros
- The side plates are removable
- The Rulon drag system is durable
- The clutch bearing used on the reel is one way
- The oiling port is external thus easily accessible
Cons
- The drag stars are brittle and break easily
3. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
This fishing reel has reinforced gears for reliable operation with stainless steel screws and springs for strength. When using this reel, the retrieval process is silent while the speed is steady leading to good performance.
The drag washers are made of carbon fiber making their performance better than the normal washers. These premium washers make power fine-tuning a simple process of just turning the star drag to achieve your desired results.
Key Features
The bearings on this baitcaster are shielded with stainless steel to enable them to withstand particles likely to cause wear from water or oil. These bearings run smoothly, making the whole fishing process effortless.
This reel has five magnets that are strategically placed for optimum effect on the spool, while the spool tension knob help in preventing bird nest tangles. The dial-in-gauge works to control backlash, giving you a smooth casting.
Pros
- The brass gear is reinforced for enhanced performance
- The reel brakes are effective and accurate
- Maintaining and cleaning the reel is simple
- The winding shafts improve stability
Cons
- The drag functions inconsistently
Also read: 10 Best Fishing Kayak Under $500 – A Detailed Guide & 5 Best Bottom Fishing Rigs – Our 2 Cents on the Winning Rig
4. Piscifin Phantom Carbon Baitcasting Reel
The spool on this reel is hollow, enabling it to start faster with a significantly high acceleration rate as compared to other bigger spools. The small size enables it to work well with light lures and lines for efficiency, leading to good results.
The titanium line guide used with this baitcasting reel is oversized with its position being further away from the spool for minimum line friction and maximum cast performance. This reel is light in weight yet its performance is incredibly good and it is comfortable to use for long hours.
Key Features
Fine-tuning this reel to maximize the casting distance is simple due to the internal centrifugal brakes that are six-pin. On the other hand, the external magnetic brake enables for precise adjustment using a wide variety of baits to prevent backlash.
The drag system is made of rugged carbon fiber that supports up to 17lbs drag power while supplying smooth consistent drag pressure on the whole drag area. This makes casting efficient and retrieval effortless even when the catch is a big unsettled fish.
Pros
- The reel is easy to use
- Its performance is efficient and fast
- The dual brake system serves its purpose
- This reel is strong and durable
Cons
- The brake settings on the reel are not indicated
5. Abu Garcia Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The MagTrax brake system, which allows you to use varied lures on the reel, enables you to have complete cast control. Furthermore, the handle is compact and the reel foot is recessed, offering you a better grip that iscomfortable.
This baitcasting reel uses the Power Disk system for a smooth drag performance around the whole drag area. Therefore, you can reel in the big fish with ease from a far distance with no risk of the line breaking and your catch escaping.
Key Features
The reel has four ball bearings made of stainless steel for resistance to rust and corrosion, making the operation effortless as the bearing will run smoothly. The single roller bearing facilitates reliable retrieval with easy movement.
The reel is light in weight with a sleek design for efficient long use without wrist strains or injury. Moreover, it has a one-piece graphite frame with graphite side plates giving it a stylish appearance and simple to maintain.
Pros
- The baitcasting reel is easy to use
- It has a good and comfortable grip
- The reel uses the MagTrax brake system
- The stainless steel bearings are rust-resistant
Cons
- Constant adjustments are needed each time you are using the reel
6. Daiwa Reels Cast Low Profile
This strong and durable reel made with aluminum frame offers you quality performance as the frame ensures that all the parts are rightly aligned hence accurate casting. It is steady with a good grip that is comfortable to use even for long hours with hand strains or palm injuries unlikely to occur.
The air rotation technology used makes fishing a simple, fun-filled activity. This is because you can move or stop the reel in relation to the unpredictable fish movements while paying attention to the weather changes.
Key Features
This reel is available in both right and left retrieve, meaning even those who are used to one particular retrieval side can now get to try something new. Those who were feeling left out due to retrieval preferences can now go out and bait cast.
The reel has an infinite anti-reverse technology that prevents the handle from slapping back on the hooksets, or the slackline being released prematurely. For this reason, you can cast and retrieve with no risk of losing the line with your catch.
Pros
- It is available in both right and left retrieve
- Using the reel is easy and comfortable
- The aluminum CT frame makes it durable
- The air rotation facilitates effortless retrieval
Cons
- First-time anglers need more practice to be able to use the reel well
7. KastKing Speed Demon 9.3:1 Baitcasting Fishing Reel
This baitcaster has been rated as the fastest in the world in terms of baitcasting as compared to other baitcasters with almost the same features. The gear ratio of 9.3:1 is capable of delivering terrific speed and efficient performance.
The ball bearings are shielded from corrosion with an ultra-smooth texture that also speeds up movement when the reel is in use. This enables casting to be effortless and retrievals speedy, hence memorable fishing experiences.
Key Features
The uniquely designed spoolcross drilled spool with anodized aluminum prevents backlashing, giving you better positioning for casting. Moreover, its revolutionary design and easy adjustment facilitate total control.
The drag system on this reel has three carbon fiber plates that can handle big fish since the drag power is up to 6Kg. You will not strain to retrieve your big catch from whatever distance, but you cannot use the reel in salty water despite its stainless steel nature.
Pros
- This is reel has been rated as the fastest
- The ball bearings are resistant to corrosion
- Its grip is good due to paddle EVA knobs
- Thedurable shaft is made of stainless steel
Cons
- This reel cannot be used in salty water
8. Ardent Apex Tournament Baitcasting Reel
This tournament reel has a ball bearing system of 8 + 1 quality that makes the retrieval process effortless and smooth with 30.6” per single turn. It also facilitates efficient long-distance casts due to the adjustable external magnetic brakes.
The frame on the reel is machined aluminum that is light in weight yet strong and durable with the ability to cast plus reel in effectively. Moreover, the spool is also made of aluminum for quality performance, leading to successful bait casting.
Key Features
The handle is swept-back aluminum with EVA knobs fitted on it to provide you with the ultimate comfort during long fishing hours. The grip is good, preventing slips even with wet hands, to minimize the chances of an injury during casting or retrieval.
This reel is only easy to use with efficient performance for pro-anglers since it lacks a manual with the packaging. Unfortunately, the new anglers have to rely on the internet or friends for guidelines, which can be cumbersome or difficult for some customers.
Pros
- The brakes on the reel function so well
- It has excellent grip
- The reel is strong and durable
- It works effectively and efficiently
Cons
- The reel comes with no instructions manual
9. Abu Garcia Pro Max Baitcasting Fishing Reel
The reel is efficient when it comes to casting with quality performance. This is as a result of the MagTrax braking system that ensures the brake pressure is consistent with your accuracy and cast range.
The drag uses Power Disk technology that provides the smoothness needed to calm fish that pull hard, enabling you to reel in with ease. Moreover, the low profile design makes it possible for you to outlast your catch by providing an ergonomic feel.
Key Features
The reel is durable and can perform very well over a long period of time as long as it is properly maintained. This is possible due to the Duragear brass gear, the graphite one-piece frame and the anodized aluminum spool.
This reel is not anti-backlash, meaning it is tough on new anglers who are yet to master the skills. It seems like a good reel, but it would be better to get one that is anti-backlash since even pro-anglers do experience backlashes sometimes.
Pros
- The reel’s brakes work as required
- This reel is strong and durable
- The drag system is efficient
- The handle is steady and comfortable
Cons
- This reel is not anti-backlash
10. Quantum Accurist PT LP Baitcast Reel
This reel has a ceramic drag system that is powerful, enabling anglers to get fish from deep covers. In addition, the flipping switch facilitates swift operation which is necessary when fishing due to the unpredictable weather conditions.
The external magnetic settings allow for reel adjustment to accommodate different-sized lures plus external weather conditions like wind changes. You are able to know when the wind is perfect for casting.
Key Features
The reel has an integrated ACS centrifugal cast control for accurate casting, resulting in high performances and of course rewarding outcomes. However, the reel needs several uses before one can be a pro at it.
The PT bearings on the reel are made of stainless polymer for the resistance of corrosion and abrasion; otherwise, the sand particles would cause excessive damage. Moreover, the lubrication port on the reel is easily accessible.
Pros
- The reel has an easy-to-access lubrication port
- This reel works well with multiple rods during depth changes
- The speed and weight are good
- The casting and retrieval is smooth
Cons
- The spool fits too tightly
11. Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcasting Reels
This reel is light in weight yet strong enough to handle 10lbs with itspowerful Rulon Drag system. Furthermore, the grips and the combat-designed thumb bar increase traction, providing a good experience that is coupled with good performance.
The Magnetic Control System which is externally adjustable gives you the ability to make abrupt adjustmentswhenever necessary, like during weather changes. You can also use many lures of different sizes and be able to adjust them accordingly.
Key Features
This reel has a new feature on the gear train referred to as P2 Super Pinion that ensures exact alignment and stability. You will experience smoother operationsgiven that your fishing activitieswill most likely be less strenuous.
The Speed Spool is made in both right and left-hand retrieves, thus it is all-inclusive since some customers are only used to a particular retrieve orientation. Moreover, using it is simple once you have mastered the skill of casting and retrieval, even new anglers can use it as they learn.
Pros
- This reel is light in weight and strong
- It works faster and effectively
- The cast control is easy to use
- The combat-style thumb bar enhances grip
Cons
- The reel is noisy during casting and retrieval
12. Lixada Baitcasting Reel Left/Right Hand
Lixada baitcasting reel is superfast with great performance making your retrieval process smooth and efficient. In addition, the soft EVA handle knob provides a better, comfortable grip with no palm injuries during reeling in especially when the catch is big.
The reel has 17 ball bearings made of stainless steel to prevent corrosive effects caused by particles in the water. The one-way clutch also reduces the rate of tear and wear that is common with reel clutches.
Key Features
Besides giving you efficient and reliable control, the dual brake system used on the reel offers you a more stable casting. You are also able to maintain accuracy despite unreliable changes that are common during fishing like wind strength and tide levels.
The aluminum spool and handle provide the required strength while at the same time reducing weight to ease retrieval. Even with a big catch, you will have a smooth reeling in process from any distance and depth.
Pros
- The ball bearings are resistant to corrosion
- This reel is both right and left hand retrieve
- It is lightweight, with a stylish design
- The reel is fast and efficient
Cons
- The reel is small for 100’ line
Buying Guide for Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100
When it comes to fishing equipment, picking the most suitable reel is of great importance. There are several key factors you need to consider if you want to get the best baitcasting reel under 100.
Here are some important things to consider that will help you make an informed choice.
Spool Size
Depending on the type of fish you are aiming to catch, the spool size matters a lot. For example, if you want to catch larger fish, you will require a heavier line that will ultimately occupy more space on your spool.
It therefore makes sense to go for a fishing reel whose spool can accommodate the size of line you will be using.
Durability and Performance
Since these baitcasting reels come at pocket-friendly prices, you expect them to disappoint right? But that should not be the case.
You want to get a baitcasting reel that has been tested for performance, quality, and durability among other important features.
The best thing about a baitcasting reel is that it is easy to use so there are no frustrating moments as you are out angling.
You can always check online reviews and compare to make it easier for you to find the best baitcasting reel.
Of course, this guide will also point you in the right direction as you purchase your baitcasting reel.
Comfortable Grip
When selecting a baitcasting reel, you need to go for one that is comfortable in terms of grip. Failure to do that and you risk compromising your fishing skills.
Getting a reel with a properly-balanced and comfortable grip will make it easy for you to fish.
Correct Frame
The frame plays an important role for all fishing reels. As you pick a baitcasting reel, you need to ensure that it is made of aluminum and is in a single piece.
Should you go for a reel with a bad frame, you will be left with an ineffective reel regardless of the bearing count that it has or how smooth it feels.
Bearing Count
Any serious angler should focus on the quality of their fishing reel bearing instead of the quantity. If you want to make longer casts seamlessly, three bearings will work best.
A few good quality bearings will perform better than many poor quality bearings. You need to be smart about this if you want impressive fishing results.
Ease of maintenance
You want to get a baitcasting reel that is easy to maintain. It makes no sense to get one at an affordable price of under 100 dollars and then spend much more on maintenance.
Find out what kind of maintenance your reel requires before purchasing it.
Fishing Reel Brand
Reputable and famous brand often deliver impressive results. As such, you want to buy a fishing reel whose brand is recognized.
However, since we are talking about baitcasters under 100 dollars, it may be difficult to find a branded one for that budget.
With a little research, you are likely to come across generic products that offer you the effectiveness you are looking for within the under 100 dollar price range.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Also referred to as conventional reels, baitcasters are advanced reels for skilled anglers who are looking for more accuracy and better control.
Expert anglers can particularly target stronger, bigger, fish dueto the unmatchable accuracy, durability, and strength of baitcasting reels.
That said, we know you may have a few questions you want answered on this topic and that is why we have answered a few commonly asked ones.
Is a baitcaster better than a spinning reel?
Well, it depends on the results you want to achieve. Baitcasting reels allow for longer casts than spinning reels because they can accommodate heavier lines.
A spinning reel has a narrower and smallerspool that has a hard time with larger diameter lines. A baitcasting reel on the other hand is able to handle such lines and cast a greater distance.
Of what benefit is a baitcaster?
It is great for catching bigger fish because of its accuracy and greater control.
How do I use a baitcaster reel?
The most accurate and best way to do it is to reel in your bait up to the point where it is about six inches from the rod’s tip.
After that, turn the rod in such a way that the handle points upwards and then press the spool release button.
You will then want to place your thumb on the spool at an angle for better control of the line.
Best Overall Choice
From its unique features that are excellent for angling, KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Fishing Reel is our best choice.
It works efficiently to make your baitcasting experience one of a kind and it is a good value for your money. Therefore, we recommend it to our customers.
Final Thoughts
If you want the best angling results, you need to invest in quality angling equipment. A baitcasting reel plays an important role in actually attracting fish for you to catch.
Now, expensive does not always translate to quality and that is why we have put together this guide. You can actually get a good baitcasting reel for less than 100 dollars that will provide impressive performance as you fish.
All you have to do is research a little and ask around. Narrow down your choices, compare prices and specs and you will have a winner.