Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200 – Best Bugdet Reels 2023 | baitcastingreelz.com

On a tight budget and looking for best baitcasting reel under $200? Look no further as we have got it covered for you. To help you decide which baitcasting reel will work best for you, we have put down a list of the best baitcasting reel under $200.

Best Baitcasting Reels Under 200

If you have ever been fishing you must know the importance and role of a good fishing reel. And it might just be the right time, with the fishing season around the corner, to invest in a newer and better reel to replace the old troubling one. But first of all what exactly is a baitcasting reel and is it worth the pretty penny?

Baitcasting reels are designed to have the reel on top of the rod so that the spool is parallel rather than perpendicular to the rod as seen in the spin-cast reel. They mostly have two braking systems i.e., centrifugal and magnetic. The centrifugal brake system relies on weights while the magnetic brake system depends on an electromagnetic setup. Although both braking systems have different working principles they have the same purpose, the faster the reel spins the greater the brake pressure is applied. Moreover, problems like backlash, line twist, bail spring, braided line slippage, etc. are reduced to a minimum. All in all, you don’t have to worry about the dread wrist or elbow injury.

All of the listed baitcasting reels in this article have gone through long and thorough testing by our vetted experts as we recommend the best ones available which are light on pocket yet feature rich and reliable.

List of Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200

Editor’s Choice

List of Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200

Baitcasting ReelsRatingPrice
SHIMANO Curado K Baitcast Reel⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
KastKing Spartacus I & II Baitcasting Fishing Reel⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sougayilang Fishing Baitcasting Reels⭐⭐⭐⭐
Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Fishing Reels⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel⭐⭐⭐⭐

#1- Shimano Curado K Baitcast Reel

SHIMANO Curado K Baitcast Reel - Under $200

If you do fishing regularly then you must be familiar with the importance of baitcasting reels during fishing. Baitcasting reels are necessarily not only for the long casting but also for catching big fishes. Shimano always comes up with the most innovative and amazing products. Looking into its baitcasting reels, Shimano also marks its name. Their baitcasting reels are a bit different from other well-known brands, but in a good way.

Shimano Curado K is available in many models varying in gear ratio and power line capacities. This specific model which we are talking about has a gear ratio of 6.2:1. While other models can have a gear ratio up to 8.4:1. Many buyers are worried about the water in which they are using the baitcasting reel. Some baitcasting reels have lower efficiency in salty water. Don’t you worry about it when Shimano Curado K is here. This baitcasting reel works efficiently in both normal water as well as in salty water.

One of the best features of this baitcasting reel is its braking system. Unlike other baitcasting reels, it has SVS braking system. This allows users to have better control over brakes and spool. It uses centrifugal force to control the speed of the spool and apply the brakes smoothly. It has a specified X-ship gear system which is a micro module gear system. The advanced gear system increases the efficiency of the system and also work on decreasing the friction between moving parts.

The body structure and construction material of the baitcasting reel, is super attractive and has sleek design. Its hogane body is made up of CL4+. CL4+ is much lighter than other metals but resistant to rust. All these fantastic features justifies its top position in the list of best baitcasting reel under 200.

Key Features

  • Gear ratio : 6.2:1
  • Maximum Drag : 11 lb.
  • Braking System : SVS brake system
  • Bearing System : (6 + 1) ball bearings
  • Gear System : Micro Module gear system
  • Body : Rigid hogane body
  • Anti-reversing bearing

Specifications

  • Brand: Shimano
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Hand orientation: Left hand
  • Weight: 0.5 Pounds
Pros
  • High-efficiency baitcasting reel
  • High durability due to CL4+
  • Sleek and stylish design
Cons
  • Professional command on a baitcasting reel is required

 

#2- KastKing Spartacus I & II Baitcasting Fishing Reel – Best Low Profile

KastKing Spartacus I & II Baitcasting Fishing Reel - Reels Under 200

Observing through the name, Spartacus was a great warrior that survives in the worst times and fought the battle against the Roman Republic. Same the KastKing gives this name to its model due to the great warrior qualities. KastKing Spartacus has a very low profile design. It has a light weight that a user can easily carry it as long as they want. The baitcasting reels have usually high weight due to heavy spool. But it has CNC machined aluminum spool that is much lighter and more efficient. For further weight reduction, it is also fabricated with C6 side plates.

A unique feature of KastKing is its color scheme. The specific color of the model defines the gear ratio. This model has a gear ratio of 7.2:1 that is fair enough to compete with any advanced models of other high-rated brands. It has a carbon fiber drag system that performs smooth dragging and consistent performance. It can drag a maximum weight of 17.64 lb.

The magnetic drag system just adds to its feature. Magnetic drag system helps users for long and smooth casting. As the number of bearings increases it results in the decrease in the friction between moving parts. It has a 7 + 1 set of ball bearing embedded in it. Unlike other baitcasting reels, its frame is made up of reinforced nylon which has high strength and bending properties than other metals.

Key Features

  • Gear Ratio : 7.2:1
  • Braking System : Magnetic brake system
  • Ball Bearings : 7 + 1 ball bearing
  • Maximum Drag : 17.64 lb
  • Spool : CNC aluminum spool

Specifications

  • Brand: KastKing
  • Model: Spartacus II
  • Material: Reinforced nylon
  • Hand orientation: Left hand
  • Weight: 6 ounces
Pros
  • Low profile design
  • C6 side plates
  • Very lightweight reel
  • Tension adjustment cap
Cons
  • A little bit noisy
  • Less efficient in spool control

 

#3- Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel

Pflueger President XT Low Profile Reel - Best Baitcasting Reels Under 200

If you are looking for the best baitcasting under 200 that works efficiently in saltwater then you must stop here and grab the Pflueger baitcasting as soon as possible. The efficiency of many baitcasting reels decreases in saltwater but Pflueger President XT works with the same high efficiency even in the saltwater.

The other attractive feature of this baitcasting reel is its durability. Firstly, its frame is made up of aluminum. It has a system of 9 bearings in it that are made of stainless steel for increasing its durability. These bearings also play an important role in the smooth casting of fishes. Furthermore, manufacturers use aircraft-grade aluminum for making its handle. This alloy of aluminum increases the durability of this baitcasting reel up to extreme levels. Pflueger President XT has a relatively high gear ratio of 7.3:1.

Users can easily attain a grip on the reel as it has a soft touch rubber knob. The more the grip on the reel, the easier it is to cast fishes. It has a magnetic brake system that works very smoothly. Users have a high control on brakes and spool due to this magnificent braking system. The C45 side plates are installed in it that ensures its low profile design. It can drag up to 12lb of weight.

Key Features

  • Gear Ratio : 7.3:1
  • Handle : Aircraft-grade aluminum made of the handle
  • Ball Bearings : 9 ball-bearing system
  • Handle Grip : Soft-touch rubber knob for better gripping
  • Braking System : Magnetic braking system

Specifications

  • Brand: Pflueger
  • Model: President
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Hand orientation: Right hand
  • Weight: 7.4 ounces
Pros
  • CD45 side plates
  • Highly durable baitcasting reel
  • More efficient reel
  • Sleek and compact body
Cons
  • Some users complain about the quality of the reel

 

#4- Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reels – Best Lightweight Reel

Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reels - Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200

The beginners of any product user are always afraid of investing money. Especially, if you have started fishing recently and do not have much experience of this work then you will be amazed by the features of Cadence baitcasting reels. It has not had plenty of models like other brands but it is few reels are much worthy and compatible with all others.

The feature that makes it superior to other baitcasting reels is its 3 months risk-free trial. No other brand offers this type of trial. So you can learn at this time and determine your compatibility and requirements. Also, it offers a 1-year warranty on its baitcasting reel which is also not offered by any other baitcasting reel brand. The quality that attracts most of customers towards itself is its surprisingly low price. It has a 30% longer life span than other baitcasting reels of this price range.

The CB5 has a small size as your palm. Its frame is made of graphite and the side plates are adjusted inside it for reduction of its weight. People feel very comfortable using this. The performance of CB5 is enhanced by the smooth speed line. Its exceptional gear ratio will also never disappoint you. It has a gear ratio of 6.6:1.

When users heard about a new brand, they start comparing each feature with products of other well-reputed brands. It has an aluminum spool with a spool tension knob that ensures its durability. While the main gear is made of brass which not only increases its durability but also enhances corrosion resistance. Comparing with other reels, it is 20% stronger and durable. The presence of an anti-reversing and 7 double-shielded ball bearings make it the best budget baitcasting reel.

Key features

  • Gear Ratio : 6.6:1
  • Ball Bearings : 7 Double shielded ball bearings
  • Spool : Aluminum spool
  • Bearings : Super low torque (SLT) bearing system
  • Warranty : 1-year warranty
  • Maximum Drag : 20 lb

Specifications

  • Brand: Cadence
  • Model: CB5
  • Material: Aluminum, Graphite
  • Hand orientation: Right hand
  • Weight: 0.05 kilograms
Pros
  • 3 months of risk-free trial
  • 30% longer life span
  • Instant anti-reversing ball bearing
  • Extremely durable baitcasting reel
Cons
  • It has a small handle size
  • A little bit noisy reel

 

#5- Sougayilang Fishing Baitcasting Reels– Best Anti-Corrosion Baitcaster Reel

Sougayilang Fishing Baitcasting Reels - Best Baitcaster Under $200

Are you getting bored or tired of the hectic routine? If yes, then how is the idea of a relaxing fishing plan? Fishing is a very easy and powerful way to relax your mind and body. When decided to go on fishing then come to the most essential tool for fishing that is the baitcasting tool. If you are looking for a multi-featured baitcasting reel and unable to get the right one for you then Sougayilang reel is best for you.

It has the most powerful magnetic braking system. This braking system allows users to have proper control over brakes. Users can control the spool properly with the help of this high quality baitcasting reel. It has a CNC machined forged spool that makes it stronger. For the consistent working of your baitcasting reel, the quality and quantity of ball bearings are very important. It has a combination of 9 + 1 bearings. These bearings are made of stainless steel that increases their durability.

The best part of buying this baitcasting reel is the support that Sougayilang gives to its customers. It gives you 2-years support if you face any problem in using this reel or any other ambiguity. This reel offered a super gear ratio of 8:1 along with different ranges of line capacities. So you can get the baitcasting reel according to your choice of line capacity. It is usable in both fresh and saltwater. It has a very stylish design that not only looks fancy but also great for long-distance casting.

Key Features

  • Gear Ratio: of 8:1
  • Ball Bearings: 9 + 1 ball bearings
  • Spool: CNC machined aluminum spool
  • Maximum Drag: up to 18 lb
  • High-speed baitcasting reel
  • 2-years support service

Specifications

  • Brand: Sougayilang
  • Material: stainless steel
  • Hand orientation: right hand
  • Weight: 7.4 ounces
Pros
  • No backlash problem
  • Good for long casting
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Anti-corrosion baitcasting reel
  • Instant anti-reversing system
  • It has adjustable brakes
Cons
  • It produces noise during casting

 

#6- Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Fishing Reels– Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200

Daiwa Tatula SV TW Baitcast Fishing Reels - Best Fishing Reel Under $200

If you are a professional user of baitcasting reel and knows all the facts and figures about baitcasting reels then you must be finding a baitcasting reel that helps you to cast longer without any type of hurdle. Daiwa Tatula is such a baitcasting reel that allows user very long casting as it has a special winder system installed in it. This winder system allows baitcasting reek to cast 55 more than other reels of the same category.

The baitcasting reel is best when it performs well not only for lighter weights but also for heavier ones. It responds perfectly for a smaller weight of 4 g to 13 pounds. The best thing it works efficiently and consistently during the whole range.

Fabricated with the combination of TWS and SV, it is a great relief for professional anglers. The anglers enjoy fishing with a high-end tackle by using this baitcasting reel. The other thing that is much noticeable by buyers is the size of the baitcasting reel. It has a small size that perfectly fits into your palm having a spool of just 33mm. rather than a simple magnetic brake system, it has an air magnetic brake system that provides users a high-end grip during casting. This is one of the best baitcasting reels for professionals.

Key features

  • Braking System:Air magnetic brake system
  • Maximum Drag: 13 lb.
  • Winder system for longer casting
  • TWS casting system
  • SV for high durability

Specifications

  • Brand: Daiwa
  • Hand orientation: Right hand
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Weight: 0.55 pounds
Pros
  • Very smooth casting
  • High-end tackle
  • Comfortable while using
  • Best for professionals
Cons
  • A little bit expensive
  • It produces noise on retrieve

 

#7- Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel

Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel - Best low profile Under 200

Abu Garcia has introduced many baitcasting reels with extraordinary features. Its baitcasting reels are compatible with all other high rated baitcasting reels. It comes in two different gear ratio ranges. One is a 6.6:1 gear ratio while if you want to cast faster than you must go for the Abu Garcia Revo with a 7.3:1 gear ratio.

Some baitcasting reels have a magnetic brake system while others have a centrifugal brake system. Abu Garcia Revo has an Infini brake system that is a combination of both magnetic and centrifugal brake system. Both types of brake systems adjusted themselves automatically to have better control of fishes. Talking about the drag force and system so it has the best power stack carbon matrix drag system. This system allows users to drag up to 24 pounds which is a maximum dragging weight than any other baitcasting reel of this category.

For the smoother casting operation, it has 9 ball bearings and 1 roller bearings. It is also fabricated with an instant anti-reversing feature. For increasing the durability and reducing size, it has C6 carbon side plates. Furthermore, the material that is used in the construction of its gear is duragear brass that increases the life of the gear. All these features let it to mark its name in the list of best baitcasting reels under 200.

Key features

  • Gear ratio: 7.3:1
  • Braking System:Infini (magnetic and centrifugal) brake system
  • Gears:Duragear brass gear
  • Bearing System:9 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing
  • Maximum Drag: 24 lb
  • Power stack drag system

Specifications

  • Brand: Abu Garcia
  • Material: Stainless steel, carbon
  • Hand orientation: Right hand
  • Weight: 0.23 kilograms
Pros
  • C6 carbon side plates
  • Instant anti-reversing feature
  • Versatile baitcasting reel
  • Low profile design
  • Technically more advanced
  • Relatively lightweight
Cons
  • Inaccurate replacement of side plate release button

 

#8- Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel– Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200

Lew's Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel

Lew’s baitcasting reels are constructed in terms of better efficiency and accuracy. It performs accurate casting of fishes that’s why it stands in the list of best baitcasting reel under 200. It has a one-piece aluminum frame to keep all the components in place. The side plates are made up of graphite for increasing the durability of the baitcasting reel. These side plates are easily removable which makes them more attractive.

The spool of this baitcasting reel is made of anodized aluminum which reduces friction and easily moves with high speed. This spool is just 34mm. for better control on brakes and spool, it has a magnetic control system. The magnetic forces are used for proper controlling of the spool during the casting of fishes.

It has a combination of 9 ball bearings and 1 roller bearings. For the reversing feature, it has zero reverse clutches. This clutch works only one way. It has a variety of different models depending upon the gear ratios. The gear ratios vary from 5.6:1 to 7.5:1. Talking about its weight will also astonish you. Its weight is just 7 ounces. Users can easily use it without any tiredness and fatigue. For the lubrication of internal parts and reducing the friction between moving parts, it has an external lube port. Last but not the least, it has a very soft touch handle knobs. Users have a strong grip on these knobs and easy to use.

Key features

  • Gear Ratio: 5.6:1
  • Bearings:9 + 1 ball bearing system
  • Maximum Drag: 10 lb
  • Magnetic control system
  • One-piece aluminum frame

Specifications

  • Brand: Lew’s
  • Material: Synthetic
  • Hand orientation: Right hand
  • Weight: 0.65 pounds
Pros
  • Zero reverse one-way clutch
  • CNC machine brass gears
  • Anodized aluminum spool
  • Removable side plates
  • Lube port
Cons
  • Not efficient for use in saltwater

 

Best Baitcasting reels under $200

FAQ’S

Q. Why Baitcasting reels are recommended?

A. Baitcasting Reels can handle heavier line than and usually allow longer and heavier casts as compare to spinning reels. Most of the Bass anglers use heavier lines of 16-18 pounds, Noerthern Pike and Muskie lovers anglers also heavy lines. Spinning reels has smaller and narrow spool size as compare to Baitcasting Reels.

Q. Which type of line is required for baitcasting reel?

A. If you’re a beginner in fishing line then it would be great to start with monofilament line, it’s a little bit easy to use and mostly recommended to beginners. Braided line or Flourocarbon also recommended for beginners as it is easy to control from thumb while you controlling the cast. The strength of line also depends on which type of fishing you’re going so its better to do a research regarding fishing line before going to fishing trip.

 

Conclusion

I hope this guide would be helpful for you to select a baitcasting reel suits to your budget and providing information regarding Specs and features of these reels. I love to study and promote baitcasters and fond of trying for new technologies and improvements. If there is any baitcasting reel that you use and you think that I should include that in this list, Share your thoughts in comments, I’d love to hear from you.

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