Best baitcasting reels from leading brands

While there are plenty of great baitcasting reels for far less cash, if you’re the type of bass angler who needs to know that he or she has the best that money can buy, there are plenty that fit the bill. We’ve been amazed at how much positive feedback we got on our piece about ultra-premium spinning reels, so now we’re turning to some of the premier levelwind editions. I’ve owned several of these and they are sweet, durable and (for my money) usually worth the price tag. You can feel the difference. If you’re similarly inclined to get one or more, here are nine you might consider:

Abu-Garcia Zenon MG-LTX — **Abu Garcia Zenon MG-LTX**
8.3:1
4.7 ounces
11 total bearings

Abu-Garcia Zenon MG-LTX BFS — **Abu Garcia Zenon MG-LTX BFS**
6.8:1 or 8.3:1
5.3 ounces
10 total bearings

**Daiwa Steez A 100**
7.1:1 or 8.5:1
6.7 ounces
11 total bearings

**Daiwa Steez SV TW**
7.8:1 or 8.5:1
5.6 ounces
13 total bearings

**Daiwa Steez 70 CT SV TW**
7.1:1 or 8.1:1
5.3 ounces
13 total bearings

**Team Lew's Elite-Ti SLP Series**
7.5:1
6.2 ounces
11 total bearings

**Shimano Metanium DC A**
7.1:1 or 8.1:1
6.2 or 6.3 ounces
11 total bearings

Shimano Antares A Baitcasting Reel — **Shimano Antares A**
7.4:1
7.8 ounces
11 total bearings

Shimano Calcultta Conquest MD — **Shimano Calcutta Conquest MD**
7.5:1
12.7 or 12.9 ounces
12 total bearings

Everyone has their preferences on shape (round versus low profile), gear ratio and various design factors, and the black-and-white specs may not be as good of a test as “feel” – but these reels are all fine pieces of machinery, and no matter which brand you prefer there’s a great option that’ll perform exceptionally. Find the one that fits your particular needs, and while it won’t necessarily double your catch rate, it’ll help you feel more confident when the fish of a lifetime is within range or on the line.