Choosing the optimal baitcasting reel

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The first coils had a primitive design. They were a regular drum from which the fishing line was unwinded by rotation. The next stage was inertia-free models, but multiplier options are considered the peak of perfection. These are inertial devices, but slightly changed, having received a more advanced body and structure.

The multiplier has a number of advantages over standard models:

• a more powerful braking system that allows you to retrieve large trophies;
• the ability to use thick fishing line or thread;
• more careful control of gear and catch in the water.

The disadvantages include the relatively high price, which in retail stores can reach tens of thousands of rubles. But, as always, the AliExpress platform comes to the rescue, offering quite affordable options with an affordable price tag and acceptable quality. In our rating, we selected models from popular and little-known manufacturers that have received a lot of positive reviews and are in the highest demand among customers.

A short overview of baitcasting reels

Anton Berdnik

In this review, I will try not to go into “holy wars” about the advantages and disadvantages of multipliers as a class; I would like to summarize the specific models that were in my hands over the past and the beginning of this fishing season. I became seriously ill with “multiples” during the 2013-2014 off-season, and immediately in a severe form. I was inspired by the idea of ​​assembling multiplier kits for running ranges, fortunately at that time I had only two inexpensive light spinning rods from the gear and the burden of previously wasted funds did not hang over me . Of course, videos of Japanese fishermen, in which they handled this gear exceptionally deftly, and very lively discussions on Russian-language forums played a very important role in this. As a result, my desire transformed into attempts to find the ideal ultralight multiplier and a convenient, reliable multiplier for weights 5-40.

My first choice was made in favor of not very expensive, but fairly well-proven reels.

• For the middle range (from 7 to 21 grams, later it worked well with weights up to 40) I chose the Daiwa T3 Ballistic 100 HSL (in this case, there is a slight inaccuracy in the store catalog - the official HSL marking and the reel with this marking is left-handed).

I didn’t use this reel very actively; during the season I probably made about 10-15 trips, counting the 5-day voyage to the lower Volga. To be honest, I couldn’t fully evaluate magforce 3D; I never found myself in a situation where I had to switch the brakes from long cast mode to at least all round mode; 20 brake divisions were enough to adjust in any wind direction. Perhaps in case of sudden and unexpected gusts, the ability to switch to more controlled modes will be necessary. The range of baits with which the reel works without strain is at least 7 - 40, but for a long, comfortable cast of 7 grams, the rod must be turned on, otherwise it will be somewhat difficult to place the bait exactly on target. Another observation I made with this reel is that there is no need to put thin 8-core cords on it. Perhaps this is a feature of the T-shaped line guide, but when winding a good 15lb 8-strand PowerPro super8slick, cutting in and subsequent shooting occurred from time to time; when winding a slightly thicker 4-strand line, there were no such problems. If it weren’t for my passion for new experiments, then perhaps this would not be a bad option for a medium or heavy medium.

• For the ultra-light range (up to 7 grams) I chose Shimano Chronarch 51E

With tuning of the spool and bearings, the Avail Microcast ALD0936RR spool and ceramic bearings should have provided a decent cast of 2-2.5 grams, unfortunately I missed the rod and I managed to work with this reel with two grams, but it was no longer entirely comfortable.

But the desire to fish with an ultralight multiplier only increased, because now I understood what I wanted in these test ranges. Moreover, I received a trout rod, for which the weight of the chronarch, equal to 200 grams, was excessive. Yes, and this is the only reel that does not have a micro-click adjustment of the axial brake, which can create some inconvenience for quick adjustments when changing baits from 2.5 to 3.5 grams.

• My next step in the medium and medium-heavy segment was the successful purchase of the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur Revo STX-L LH ; however, the catalog indicates a weight of 249 grams, which corresponds to the 2nd generation of these reels; the gen3 reels currently sold weigh 200 grams, but everything is the same are among the most traction, with a friction force of 9 kg.

What is most attractive about this reel is the presence of two braking systems at once: centrifugal and magnetic, which allows fans of each system to use it equally successfully. On the other hand, when fishing with sailing baits in a strong gusty wind, the centrifuge does not allow it to swell at the beginning of the cast, and the included magnet allows you to stabilize the flight during gusts of wind over the entire distance. Although, of course, all this cannot but affect the range. The working weights of baits for this reel range from the same 7 grams and up to 50. On the Internet I met people who have successfully used it for several seasons for small jerks, up to 80 grams. I fished with this reel again a couple of times near the city and several days on the lower Volga, keeping in mind the ballistics inserts, I immediately wound a fairly thick 4-core cord. What can I say, I liked the reel these days, I had no desire to change it, but the devil pulled me to make a profitable bet on Steez ex and I needed money.

• STEEZ EX 100 HL - the stated weight range is 5-40, which is not quite usual for a soap dish weighing about 160 grams. It’s worth saying right away that the steez series is the favorite reel of American bass fishing professionals, and they value them for their indestructibility, survivability and high quality with minimal weight. I can’t yet testify about survivability and indestructibility, but the quality of the reel and its performance characteristics leave an extremely pleasant impression right away. The only thing that confuses me a little is the lack of information about the coating of the line guide eye. There is a certain possibility that it does not have titanium nitride and can be sawed through with a cord, but so far there are no special signs of this.
• And ultralight again: Abu Garcia LTX-L and an Avail Microcast RVLTX32RR spool with ceramic bearings arrived on a trout stick from the manufacturer of the same name

Now this is a complete headset set that fits into your hand like a glove, your hand clasps the cork holder and all your fingers rest on the recesses of the reel

It would seem that there is about a 30 gram difference in weight with the chronarch, but the balance of the tackle is completely different, correct. When testing a rod of 2-7 grams, it is comfortable to fish from 2.5, but if necessary, you can cast 2.2 quite decently. The friction brake can be adjusted over a fairly wide range, which can often be very useful when fishing for trout, especially if the spool is wound with a thin line.

• The best ultra-light soap dish I've ever used is the Daiwa SS Air.

So far I have the only ultra-light multiplier that can be used with lures weighing 2 grams right out of the box. The main problem is to choose a decent wand for this reel that can reveal all its capabilities.

This very light reel, which works great with light baits, when it appeared on the market, it immediately won the attention of everyone who loves ultralight and for some reason prefers magnetic braking systems. In fact, this is a direct competitor to Shimano Aldebaran BFS, which, with similar out-of-the-box characteristics and price, has a centrifugal braking system. But besides this, the appearance of the SS Air has seriously pushed forward another reel from Daiwa, namely the Daiwa T3 air, which is seriously losing the price race, but at the same time, judging by the field tests of enthusiasts, cannot offer a fundamental improvement in casting range or comfort.

It’s probably worth putting an end to this for now, or better yet, an ellipsis, because the world of multiplier reels does not stand still and many more interesting models have appeared that I would like to twirl in my hands, test and perhaps keep in my arsenal.

Review of popular models

Today, multiplier reels are produced by many manufacturers. Among them there are good budget models, and there are elite-level cartoons. The following manufacturers can be noted:

• "AbuGarcia";
• "Daiwa"
• Banax;
• "Kosadaka"
• Shimano;
• "Salmo"
• "Siweida".

Of course, Abu Garcia, which produces reels for both sea fishing and casting fishing, is considered the recognized leader among multipliers. They are reliable, practical and have an affordable price.

Multiplier Reel "Daiwa"

The Daiwa multiplier reel is famous for its innovative developments. Polish “Salmo”, Chinese “Kosadaka” and “Siweida” produce budget models suitable for the initial stages of learning casting fishing.

Each manufacturer has models that are worth noting so that beginners can navigate when choosing a cartoon.

AbuGarcia Ambassadeur BCX

A classic inexpensive bait that can be used in many types of fishing. Most often, this reel can be seen in jerk fishing, heavy jigging, twitching large minnow wobblers and, of course, lake and river trolling. This multiplier is popular due to its low cost and decent performance. The reliability and durability of the reel cannot be doubted, and its power will compete with products from the more expensive segment.

AbuGarcia Ambassadeur Orra

Low profile mid-price reel. Suitable for both beginners in casting fishing and more advanced spinning anglers. It has a durable body, compact dimensions, and lays the line well. This multiplier can be used in twitching, jigging, jerk fishing and swimbait fishing.

AbuGarcia Ambassadeur Revo PremierHS

One of the smallest and lightest multis that can be caught with lures weighing up to 15 grams. Can be used in jigging and twitching. The reel is very compact and easy to use. The body and other elements of the multiplier are strong and durable. Allows the use of thin fishing line, which is laid very evenly without dips or “humps”.

Daiwa Steez

This reel is recognized as the lightest in its class. Refers to elite multiplier reels. It is chosen by professional athletes and advanced spinners. It was originally developed for bass fishing, but has found application in jigging and twitching. It has a durable lightweight body, ideal line laying, sufficient power and unsurpassed reliability.

Banax Zest

Budget multiplier from a well-known manufacturer. The Banax Zest baitcasting reel perfectly combines versatility, sensitivity and reliability. Can be used for fishing with heavy and medium spinning rods with lures from 25–30 grams. Perfect for beginners for their first steps in casting fishing.

Kosadaka Atlas

This is an inexpensive reel, adapted for trolling fishing and deep sea fishing. The cartoon is equipped with a counter that allows you to determine the distance to the bait. Like all Chinese Kosadaka reels, it has good strength characteristics, fairly accurate settings and a reliable drag. With such a cartoon you can catch trophy fish. Not suitable for casting fishing.