Baitcasters are a hugely beneficial type of fishing reel, thanks to their many advantages. Here we explore the best baitcaster in 2022 under $100 where the top three included two by KastKing and another by Abu Garcia.
Because of their rotating spool, the line on a baitcaster doesn’t get caught in the cast, meaning that you can cast a longer distance with higher accuracy when compared to other fishing reels.
As with a lot of fishing equipment, baitcasters can cost hundreds of dollars from a high-end brand; however, for those on a lower budget, you don’t have to compromise your bank account for a high-quality baitcaster.
From well-known brands to lesser-known companies, there are a wide array of baitcasters available for under $100 made from the highest quality materials with ergonomic designs so that you can be assured of their continued performance with years of brilliant results. While here you might want to learn more about the parts of a baitcaster, the difference between baitcasting and spinning rods, or the best baitcaster for bass.
Don’t have time to read the full guide of the best baitcaster under $100? Find our top pick here:
KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reels
Our top recommendation is the KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reels, the best baitcaster under $100, thanks to its elite concept, meaning that they are ready for tournaments.
Great for all abilities from beginners to professionals. The palm perfect design has been ergonomically designed thanks to its small frame casting reel.
The swing-wing side opens easily, ensuring that it stays fully intact. The color-coded gear ratios make it incredibly easy to use this baitcasting reel as each gear ratio has its unique color.
So what makes this our winner? If you’re looking for a long-term baitcaster at a phenomenal price point, this is the model that you need to invest in.
Incredibly reliable and durable, this baitcaster is made from premium materials, including aluminum and stainless steel, meaning that it is designed to be used for years to come with consistent results and performances.
The components of this baitcaster for beginners and professionals alike can be used by both right and left-handed fishers making it one of the most accessible models on the list.
Our Top Baitcasters Under $100 Picks
OUR TOP PICK
KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reels
[5stars]
Our top recommendation of best baitcaster under $100 is the KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reels which has an elite concept thanks to its design and manufacturing, making it ready for tournaments.
The palm perfect design is ergonomically designed thanks to the small frame casting reel, and the swing-wing side cover opens easily with an ergo twist release, meaning that it stays attached to the fish reel.
The color-coded gear ratios mean that beginners and professionals can get the most from this baitcaster thanks to the ease of use and maintenance.
Each gear ratio reel has its unique color, meaning that you won’t get confused or tangled up and have a wide variety of choices.
What puts the KatKing Royale Legend Baitcasting Reel at the top of our list is its reliability!
Thanks to the ten double shielded, stainless steel bearings, instant anti-reverse, and hardened aluminum main gears, you get fantastic durability as well as a lightweight design!
The reel can be used in both freshwater and saltwater, too, offering outstanding versatility.
The brass pinion gears and worm drives provide strength and performance.
At the same time, the carbon drag contains 17.6lbs of drag power and five-element magnetic brakes with ten adjustments to control backlash, meaning that this is one of the most advanced models on the market.
Suitable for both left and right-handed fishers, this is an incredibly accessible tool to have as well.
Pros
- The palm perfect design is ergonomically designed thanks to the small frame casting reel, and the swing-wing side cover opens easily with an ergo twist release, meaning that it stays attached to the fish reel.
- The color-coded gear ratios mean that beginners and professionals can get the most from this baitcaster thanks to the ease of use and maintenance.
- The brass pinion gears and worm drives provide strength and performance. At the same time, the carbon drag contains 17.6lbs of drag power and five-element magnetic brakes with ten adjustments to control backlash, meaning that this is one of the most advanced models on the market.
Cons
- The thumb button can become stiff over time
EDITORS CHOICE
Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel
[5stars]
Our second selection of best baitcaster under $100 is the Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile Baitcasting Fishing Reel which is a great alternative for those who don’t want a KastKing branded product.
This Abu Garcia Baitcasting Fishing Reel has a lightweight design thanks to the one-piece graphite frame and side plates which means that this baitcaster is both reliable and durable thanks to its comfortable, ergonomic design.
The four stainless steel ball bearings and power disk system incorporate the most advanced technology, so you are guaranteed to have consistently high performances and results.
What puts the Abu Garcia Baitcasting Fishing Reel (see our complete review of the Abu Garcia Black Max rod and reel combo here) second on our list is how well it performs in any kind of water through turbulent weather conditions while not faltering.
With a fantastic MagTrax brake system that boosts your range and accuracy of casts, this is a brilliant choice for all abilities and is incredibly easy to use and maintain.
Whether you’re a beginner who has never used a baitcaster before or a professional looking for an upgrade to advance their skill set, this is the baitcaster for you.
The compact bent handle and recessed reel provide an ergonomic grip meaning that you can use it for long periods without fatigue.
Pros
- A lightweight design thanks to the one-piece graphite frame and side plates which means that this baitcaster is both reliable and durable thanks to its comfortable, ergonomic design
- With a fantastic MagTrax brake system that boosts your range and accuracy of casts, this is a brilliant choice for all abilities and is incredibly easy to use and maintain
- The compact bent handle and recessed reel provide an ergonomic grip, meaning that you can use it for long periods without feeling any fatigue.
Cons
- It needs to be oiled before every use
BEST VALUE
KastKing Crixus Baitcasting Reels
[5stars]
Our third selection of best baitcaster under $100 is another from KatKing and is the KastKing Crixus Baitcasting Reels designed for exceptional value and performance.
The Crixus Baitcasting Reel is extremely lightweight while simultaneously being tough, strong, and durable, providing you with years of use whether you’re a beginner or professional.
The tournament-proven components feature heavy-duty brass main and pinion gears with a long lifespan, higher speeds, and low noise.
It’s made with a CNC machined aluminum U-shaped spool for longer casts and a higher fishing line capacity.
The handle is made from lightweight aluminum and contains comfortable and slip-resistant super polymer grips meaning that you can fish for long periods.
Made with a smooth and reliable carbon disc drag meaning that you can fish in any environment during any weather without worrying about the deterioration of any part of your product.
The Crixus Baitcasting Reel provides an ultra-smooth performance thanks to the seven shielded, stainless steel high-quality ball bearings as well as an instant anti-reverse bearing.
The reliable and proven magnetic braking system has eight magnets to give many levels of spool braking, which eliminates frustrating overruns, so you’re spending more time fishing and less time messing with the baitcaster.
As with any KastKing product, you can rely on their products and trust the design and manufacturing that goes behind their baitcasters.
These products are designed to last for years with consistently high performances.
Pros
- The Crixus Baitcasting Reel is extremely lightweight while simultaneously being tough, strong, and durable, providing you with years of use whether you’re a beginner or professional.
- The handle is made from lightweight aluminum and contains comfortable and slip-resistant super polymer grips meaning that you can fish for long periods.
- The reliable and proven magnetic braking system has eight magnets to give many levels of spool braking, which eliminates frustrating overruns, so you’re spending more time fishing and less time messing with the baitcaster
Cons
- High price point
RUNNER UP
KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels
[4stars]
Our fourth selection of best baitcaster under $100 is the KastKing Royale Legend GT Baitcasting Reels, one of the best choices for beginners.
The reel features a dual brake system with a quick and easy to fine-tune centrifugal and magnetic brake system for superior casting control.
This is great for beginners, thanks to its ease of use and lack of backlashes.
With a bigger line capacity, this baitcaster is a great fit for those who like to fish in deep-sea waters or have longer casts, thanks to its upgraded design and high-grade materials.
This KastKing model is brilliant thanks to its low-profile design with a super silent, high-speed line retrieve, allowing for higher success.
The two-color anodized aluminum forged multi-ported whiffle style spool provides maximum strength while also limiting the weight of the overall product.
Made with precision cut brass gear structure and a carbon fiber drag system delivering 17.5lbs of drag, this model offers the ultimate high performance while also low maintenance making it great for beginners.
Pros
- Featuring a dual brake system with a quick and easy to fine-tune centrifugal and magnetic brake system for superior casting control
- With a bigger line capacity, this baitcaster is a great fit for those who like to fish in deep-sea waters or have longer casts, thanks to its upgraded design and high-grade materials.
- Made with precision cut brass gear structure and a carbon fiber drag system delivering 17.5lbs of drag, this model offers the ultimate high performance while also low maintenance making it great for beginners.
Cons
- Not ideal for professionals
RUNNER UP
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
[4stars]
Our fifth choice of best baitcaster under $100 is the Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel is one of the most powerful models on this list! It’s advanced; four washers give the low profile baitcaster reel more power with an 18lb carbon fiber drag.
It’s the ideal choice for those who want to catch larger fish. Made with durable materials, this baitcaster is made from industrial materials such as climate-resistant brass gears, which provide years of great performance.
The low profile design baitcaster features various gear ratios specifically designed for the more advanced and versatile angler.
With a super silent high speed, this model is great for getting fish quickly out of cover and providing faster fishing tactics.
The unique side plate oil port provides prolonged maintenance suitable for all abilities, whether you are a novice or a professional, which provides a long lifespan and maximizes your baitcasting reel life.
The strong double wind shafts and backlash eliminating magnetic dial-in settings mean that this baitcaster is made from advanced materials to provide a more convenient experience, so you’re spending more time fishing and less time messing around trying to set the baitcaster up.
Pros
- Made with durable materials, this baitcaster is made from industrial materials such as climate-resistant brass gears, which provide years of great performance.
- The low profile design baitcaster featuring a variety of gear ratios that are specifically designed for the more advanced and versatile angler
- The strong double wind shafts and backlash eliminating magnetic dial-in settings mean that this baitcaster is made from advanced materials to provide a more convenient experience, so you’re spending more time fishing and less time messing around trying to set the baitcaster up.
Cons
- The thumb button may need loosening up before use.
RUNNER UP
KastKing Spartacus I & II Baitcasting Fishing Reel
[4stars]
Our sixth selection of best baitcaster under $100 is the KastKing Spartacus I & II Baitcasting Fishing Reel.
It has a new design containing many dynamic features, including an extremely sleek lower profile of only 39mm and a weight of only 6 ounces so that you can be assured of its portability.
The advanced technology in this baitcaster is extremely impressive thanks to the powerful five-button magnetic brakes, which is such an effective system that this baitcaster only needs one brake system instead of dual brakes.
The double tapered control chute line guide reduces line friction for ultimate line control and birds nest reduction.
The tournament-ready four-disc carbon fiber drag makes this baitcaster a fantastic choice for all abilities.
The KastKing Spartacus I & II Fishing Reel has a smooth performance thanks to the superior shield corrosion resistant ball bearings, CNC anodized aluminum spool with power launch, and aluminum handle for smooth casting.
You also get powerful precision thanks to the aluminum gears, and the high-grade EVA handle knobs, meaning that you can be assured of years of consistent performance.
With affordable innovation, this baitcasting reel is smoother, smaller, lighter, and more powerful, as expected from the KastKing brand.
Pros
- The advanced technology in this baitcaster is extremely impressive thanks to the powerful five-button magnetic brakes, which is such an effective system that this baitcaster only needs one brake system instead of dual brakes.
- The double tapered control chute line guide reduces line friction for ultimate line control and birds nest reduction.
- With affordable innovation, this baitcasting reel is smoother, smaller, lighter, and more powerful, as expected from the KastKing brand.
Cons
- Make sure you adjust the brake system every time you use the baitcaster to avoid any backlash.
RUNNER UP
Piscifun Spark Pro Baitcasting Reel
[4stars]
Our seventh selection of best baitcaster under $100 is the Piscifun Spark Pro Baitcasting Reel which has a smooth operation thanks to the increased resistance from wear and tear in both fresh and saltwater.
The bearings redefine smoothness for a low-profile baitcasting reel.
With exceptional stability and durability, the double shaft supported line wind delivers 40% more stability and 35% more durability, offering you a longer lifespan than its competitors!
This greatly improves the overall operation of the reel.
Boasting a powerful brake and smooth drag, the magnetic braking system features eight magnetic discs, offering quick on-the-fly adjustment and reducing the chances of backlash.
The oversize disc carbon fiber drab provides consistent and smooth stopping power while battling big fish.
What makes this Piscifun model a great choice is the super compact design that has been ergonomically designed with an ultra-comfortable frame so you can go fishing for long periods without feeling fatigued.
With handle knobs located to the rod’s centerline, you can be assured that this baitcaster will not wobble as you reel in the rod.
This means that you will have less wasted energy and a more powerful retrieve.
The lighter and stronger design has been made with double hardened anodized aluminum main gear, which reduces the overall weight by 10% while still providing strength and durability.
Pros
- With exceptional stability and durability, the double shaft supported line wind delivers 40% more stability and 35% more durability to offer a longer lifespan without a hefty price tag!
- Boasting a powerful brake and smooth drag, the magnetic braking system features eight magnetic discs, which offer quick on-the-fly adjustment while also reducing the chances of backlash.
- The super-compact design has been ergonomically designed with an ultra-comfortable frame so you can go fishing for long periods without feeling fatigued.
Cons
- The design is a lot thinner than most models
RUNNER UP
Sougayilang Fishing Baitcasting Reels
[4stars]
Our eighth choice of best baitcaster under $100 is the Sougayilang Fishing Baitcasting Reels has a light and strong design featuring an aluminum forged spool that offers maximum strength with reduced weight.
The 1-10 magnetic brake system makes it easier to fight with fishes while reeling them in.
The swing-wing side cover offers convenience with an ergonomically designed principle meaning that it will still attach to the fish reel even when opened.
The super silent, high-speed gear means that you are guaranteed to have many years of consistently high performances with great results.
The Sougayilang Baitcasting Reels comes with two years of support and complete access to the customer service team to solve your problem within 24 hours.
The Sougayilang brand is one of the most trustworthy brands on the market, thanks to its high-quality materials.
The comfortable wood handle equips ten dependable stainless steel bearings with an instant anti-reverse system and can be used in freshwater and saltwater.
Pros
- The 1-10 magnetic brake system means that it is easier to fight with fish while reeling them in
- The super silent, high-speed gear means that you are guaranteed to have many years of consistently high performances with great results.
- It comes with two years of support and complete access to the customer service team to solve your problem within 24 hours.
Cons
- The drag may need some adjustments before each use to ensure that it can handle the weight of certain fish.
RUNNER UP
Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reels
[4stars]
Our penultimate choice of best baitcaster under $100 is the Cadence CB5 Baitcasting Reels.
It has a convenient and comfortable palm compact design, meaning that it is easily portable thanks to the lightweight graphite frame and side plates.
This baitcaster has been ergonomically designed with smooth gear lines, which greatly reduces friction. You can go fishing for long periods and feel comfortable without any fatigue.
The elegant low profile design of the baitcaster has a super smooth high-speed line meaning that you can be assured of the ultimate fishing performances consistently.
The premium durable material means that you are guaranteed to have many years of fantastic results. The materials used, such as the aluminum spool, mean reliability no matter the weather.
Compared to the average baitcaster, this baitcaster is around 20% stronger and has a 30% longer lifespan within the same price range.
This is a fantastic choice for those who want to invest in a baitcaster that comes with security.
This model has a 90-day risk-free trial and a one-year warranty so you can have complete peace of mind as well as unlimited access to the Cadence customer service team, who are happy to assist should you need it.
This model has seven double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing with ultra-smooth bearings, which means a very sleek design.
Pros
- Great price point
- Convenient and comfortable palm compact design meaning that it is easily portable thanks to the lightweight graphite frame and side plates
- This model has a 90-day risk-free trial and a one-year warranty so that you can have complete peace of mind.
Cons
- Cast brake can become a bit loose after long periods of use.
RUNNER UP
Shakespeare Alpha Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo
[4stars]
Our final choice of best baitcaster under $100 (learn about the best swimbait rods here) is the Shakespeare Alpha Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo, which is great for those who are beginning their angling career and need a rod as well as a baitcaster.
This product offers great performance at a fantastic price point, meaning that you don’t have to compromise your bank account.
Boasting a lightweight graphite reel that comes pre-spooled and accompanied with an 8-pound line for extra convenience, it is ready for immediate use.
With lightweight EVA grips, you can go fishing for long periods due to the comfort provided.
What makes this a great choice is that you get everything you need to start your fishing career.
The tubular glass blank construction provides a responsive feel and rugged durability, meaning that it will last a long time.
A great choice for the beginner (see the best salmon and steelhead fishing rods here), this rod and baitcaster combo is sure to be an ideal first step in your fishing journey.
The medium size makes it perfect for most waters and people, and the lightweight design is incredibly easy to use and maintain.
Pros
- The fishing rod and baitcaster combo are ideal for beginners as it provides everything you need to start your fishing journey.
- Boasting a lightweight graphite reel that comes pre-spooled and accompanied with an 8-pound line for extra convenience, meaning it is ready for immediate use
- The tubular glass blank construction provides a responsive feel and rugged durability, meaning that it will last a long time.
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced anglers
Best Baitcaster Under $100 Buying Guide
Baitcaster Variants
You’ll soon see that baitcasters come in 2 main options: low profile and round spool designs.
The difference is that the former is made for light spin fishing and can be used for longer periods, whereas the latter is fantastic for longer casting.
Both tend to feature lightweight, compact and ergonomic designs meaning that they are easy to use and maintain no matter what your ability is.
Choosing the correct baitcaster for you needn’t be stressful. Simply think about what kind of fishing you’ll be doing, what bodies of water you’ll be using it in, and what your ability is.
You’ll easily be able to gauge what is the best one for you. For example, deep water fishing will require a round profile baitcaster, whereas low profile baitcasters are best for light spin fishing.
Materials
You’ll see that these models are either made from graphite or aluminum. Both are fantastic for durability and reliability and will provide years of excellent results and performances.
However, bear in mind that aluminum is the stronger of the two and that the cheaper options on this list are more likely to be made from graphite as it is slightly softer and lighter than aluminum.
The Best Baitcasters Under $100 Picks FAQs
Where do I begin when choosing a baitcaster?
This article is the best place to start as we have gathered the best on the market, so you don’t have to.
Each of these models included in this guide is sold for under $100, meaning that you don’t have to empty your bank account to invest in a product that will give you years of success in your fishing journey.
What is the best baitcasting reel for beginners?
If you’re a beginner looking for your first baitcaster, there are plenty of models in this article that are geared towards your ability.
If you are still unsure, always consider how easy the baitcaster is to use and the features they offer.
The models listed higher on the guide tend to provide many more advanced features, which may be overwhelming for the novice.
However, as with everything, it’s all about practicing so you can expand your skill set and fishing knowledge.
Final Thoughts on the Best Baitcasters
To conclude this guide, you can see the wide variety of baitcasters available for less than $100. The more prominent brand in this list is KastKing, a very popular and trusted brand specializing in fishing equipment.
A favorite among anglers of all abilities, you cannot go wrong with purchasing a KastKing baitcaster.
That being said, all the reels included today are made from high-grade materials while also being easy to maintain and use no matter what your ability is.
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