biat casters??

Question
i have been fishing bass for 2 years now and wanted to try using a bait caster but im not sure what to look for when buying one.   i mostly use rubber stick baits and such, but also switch to spinnerbaits, are there any special things that i should look for when buying one?   thanks for the help mark meriano

Answer
Hi Mark,

When you say rubber stick baits I assume that you are talking about something like a Senko worm or a Sluggo.  Both of these items are relatively light weight so they take a little but more expertise to cast on a baitcaster.  Spinnerbaits will be no problem and you will love to fish them on a baitcaster because they will be much easier to reel.  

Bait casters are better with the hard pulling baits like spinnerbaits and crankbaits.

In general look for one that fits you hand well.  I have small hands so I like low profile reels.  If you have bigger hands you may like a bigger reel.  Stay with a middle range on gear ratios.  Something like a 5.5:1.  

Beyond that, you get what you pay for.  I hate to say this, but you almost have to pay $150 to get anything decent anymore.  Those reels in the $60-$100 can be hit and miss.  If you only fish here and there they may be OK.  If you fish every weekend, spend the money.  

That said, I also think that some of these reels are getting out of control as far as ball bearings and space age materials.  I think it's the law of diminishing returns at some point.  I fish a lot, but there is no way I'll ever be spending $500 on a reel.

If you want my opinion, Daiwa and Shimano are the best out there right now.  Find something in your price range from one of those companies and you will have a good reel.