When it comes to choosing a baitcaster, Bass Pro Shop has a lot of great options, and they’re one of the most popular retailers for a reason.
However, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you with so many different models to choose from. In this guide, I take a look at some of the best Bass Pro baitcasters available and help you decide which one is right for your needs. Looking at factors such as price, performance, and durability to help you make an informed decision.
Choosing the best baitcaster requires you to have quite a bit of fishing experience because you don’t just get your feet wet with this type of reel. They’re geared more for experienced anglers than novices.
My top pick for the best Bass Pro Shop Baitcaster is the Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel. This reel is packed with features that make it perfect for both novice and experienced anglers alike. For starters, the Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel is equipped with a cast control system that allows you to make long and accurate casts. Additionally, this reel has a five-bearing system that ensures smooth operation and superior performance
Our Top Picks for the Best Bass Pro Shop Baitcasters
- Shimano Curado DC
- Lew’s Speed Pool LFS
- Abu Garcia Revo SX
- Bass Pro Shop Crappie Maxx
- Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 Baitcast Reel
- Lew’s BB1 Pro Speed Spool Baitcast Reel
- Bass Pro Shop Extreme Baitcast Reel
- Bass Pro Shop Megacast Reel
This is the reel the world has been waiting for! The Shimano Curado DC Baitcast Reel is the smart-casting, computerized version of one of the world's most popular high-performance bait casters.
How I Chose These Baitcasters?
As I mentioned earlier, choosing the best Bass Pro Shop Baitcaster can be a tough task. There are so many different models to choose from, and each one has its own unique set of features. The important thing is to pair the features with what you need for your unique style.
I’ve tried out probably 25 different reels in my two decades of fishing and have found that there’s usually very little to tell each one apart. It all comes down to how it feels for you.
The Drag System
A good baitcaster should have a smooth drag system that can handle a variety of different conditions. I looked for baitcasters with a minimum of five bearings, ensuring smooth operation and superior performance. Additionally, I looked for models with a cast control system that allows you to make long and accurate casts.
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio is an important consideration when choosing a baitcaster. A higher gear ratio means that the reel can retrieve the line faster, which is ideal for anglers who like to fish in open water. Conversely, a lower gear ratio is better for anglers who fish in tight spaces or around obstacles.
Weight
The weight of the baitcaster is also an important consideration. Heavier baitcasters are more difficult to control, but they can handle larger fish. Conversely, lighter baitcasters are easier to control but may not be able to handle larger fish.
Spool Capacity
The size of the spool is another important consideration. Larger spools can hold more line, which is ideal for anglers who fish in open water. On the other hand, smaller spools are better for anglers who fish in tight spaces or around obstacles.
Handle Size
Similarly, the size of the handle is an important consideration. Larger handles are easier to grip and can provide more leverage when fighting fish. However, smaller handles are more comfortable to hold for long periods of time and are less likely to get in the way when casting.
Brakes and Tension
It is also important to consider the brakes and tension of the baitcaster. These two factors work together to control the speed of your cast. Baitcasters with a good brake system can be slowed down for more accurate casts, while those with a good tension system can be sped up for longer casts.
Reviews of the Top 8 Best Bass Pro Shop Baitcasters
Shimano Curado DC – Best Overall
Pros
- Great cast control system
- Five-bearing system
- Smooth operation
- Superior performance
Cons
- None really…
Are you looking for a baitcaster that can provide you with the perfect cast every time? If so, then you need the Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel. This reel is packed with features that make it perfect for both novice and experienced anglers alike.
For starters, the Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel is equipped with a cast control system that allows you to make long and accurate casts. Additionally, this reel has a five-bearing system that ensures smooth operation and superior performance.
The Shimano Curado DC Casting Reel is the best overall baitcaster for Bass Pro Shop. It is packed with features that make it perfect for both novice and experienced anglers alike.
This is the reel the world has been waiting for! The Shimano Curado DC Baitcast Reel is the smart-casting, computerized version of one of the world's most popular high-performance bait casters.
Lew’s Speed Spool LFS – Best Runner Up
Pros
- Strong and durable aluminum frame
- Superior gear system
- Smooth Rulon drag power
- Zirconia line guide
- 9+1 bearing system
- Lew’s Magnetic Control braking system
Cons
- Some users complain about the Rulon drag
Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Casting Reel is a light, fast and strong platform that is perfect for anglers who like to fish in open water. This reel is equipped with a strong and durable aluminum frame, as well as a superior gear system. Additionally, the Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Casting Reel has a smooth Rulon drag power that can handle a variety of different conditions.
The Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Casting Reel is the best baitcaster for anglers who like to fish in open water. It is equipped with a strong and durable aluminum frame and a superior gear system. Additionally, the Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Casting Reel has a smooth Rulon drag power that can handle a variety of different conditions.
If you think it's tough to find a high-performance baitcaster that fits a C-note budget these days, think again. The Lew's Speed Spool LFS Baitcast Reel is equipped to fit any tournament bass angler's criteria, at a price any weekend angler can justify. 
Abu Garcia Revo SX – Best Low Profile
Pros
- It is a 4th generation Revo baitcaster
- Excellent performance and durability
- Corrosion-resistant alloy frame that will last long
- High-performing D2 gear system
- Power Stack Carbon Matrix Drag
- DuraClutch gear engagement
- It has the highest drag pressure
Cons
- There have been problems reported concerning getting spare parts readily
The Abu Garcia Revo SX has a reputation of being one of the best Bass Pro Shop baitcasters in terms of performance and durability. It is a fourth-generation Revo SX, meaning that it has all the latest features and technology. The frame is made from a corrosion-resistant alloy, which means it will last long. Additionally, the Abu Garcia Revo SX is equipped with a high-performing DuraClutch gear engagement system.
The Abu Garcia Revo SX is the best baitcaster for those who are looking for a reel that offers excellent performance and durability. The frame is made from a corrosion-resistant alloy, which means it will last long. Additionally, the Abu Garcia Revo SX is equipped with a high-performing DuraClutch gear engagement system.
One of the most popular low-profile baitcasters in bass fishing, the Abu Garcia Revo SX Baitcast Reel enters its 4th generation with cutting-edge upgrades that deliver advanced performance for the serious angler. 
Here’s our full review of Abu Garcia Reels and a list of their best models.
Bass Pro Crappie Maxx – Best Lightweight
Pros
- Impressive 6:3:1 gear ratio
- Super light and portable
- 12+1 ball bearings for smoothness
- Magnetic cast control system
- Double anodized aluminum spool
Cons
- The handle is not very comfortable
The Bass Pro Crappie Max Casting Reel is an impressive reel that offers a great deal of features. Firstly, it has a gear ratio of six to three to one. This means that it is super light and portable, making it perfect for anglers on the go. Additionally, the Bass Pro Crappie Max Casting Reel is equipped with a magnetic cast control system. This system ensures accuracy and consistency when casting.
It features the Powerlock instant anti-reverse for a solid hookset every time. Plus, the external magnetic brake system gives you the ability to make long and accurate casts.
This reel is built around a lightweight graphite frame and features an aluminum spool and durable zirconia line guide. Its 3-bearing system includes Powerlock™ instant anti-reverse, for instant hooksets with smooth, hitch-free retrieves. 
Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 Baitcast Reel
Pros
- Fast, strong, and smooth operation
- Sturdy 1-piece aluminum frame for longevity
- Strong carbon covers on the sides
- Special 10-bearing system
- A powerful 6-disc carbon drag
- Anti-reverse feature
- The handle is fitted with EVA grips
- Dual braking system
Cons
- No high capacity spools
The Johnny Morris CarbonLite Baitcast Reel is a top-of-the-line reel that offers a fast, strong, and smooth operation. The frame is made from sturdy one-piece aluminum, which means it will last long. Additionally, the Johnny Morris CarbonLite Baitcast Reel is equipped with a special ten-bearing system. This system ensures that the reel is smooth and consistent when casting.
Its dual braking system offers exceptional control and the ability to make long and accurate casts. Additionally, the Johnny Morris CarbonLite Baitcast Reel is fitted with EVA grips, which makes it comfortable to use. The anti-reverse feature on this reel is also a great feature, as it ensures that the reel will not slip when casting.
Welcome to the next level in carbon-rich baitcaster performance! We've tweaked our Bass Pro Shops® Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 Baitcast Reel to make it not only stronger and smoother but also significantly faster—as in, up to 8.3:1 fast! 
Lew’s BB1 Pro Speed Spool Baitcast Reel
Pros
- Ergonomic aluminum frame
- Comes with the Speed Keeper Hook Holder
- Double shielded, 10 ball-bearing system
- 27-position ACB cast control
- Carbon fiber drag with Drag Alarm
- Titanium U-spool that is double anodized
Cons
- The reel is a bit on the heavy side
The Lew’s BB1 Pro Speed Spool Baitcast Reel is a top-of-the-line reel that offers a fast, strong, and smooth operation. The frame is made from sturdy one-piece aluminum, which means it will last long. Moreover, the Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel is equipped with a special ten-bearing system. This system ensures that the reel is smooth and consistent when casting.
The Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel also features an ergonomic design, making it comfortable to use. The graphic side plates add a touch of style to the reel, and the Speed Keeper Hook Holder is a great feature that keeps your hooks in place. The double-shielded, ten-ball-bearing system ensures that the reel is smooth and consistent when casting.
Plus, the Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel is fitted with a carbon fiber drag system. This system offers a great deal of drag, making it perfect for anglers who want to use heavier lures.
The all-time favorite bass reel, enhanced with up-to-the-minute performance features. Lew's BB1 Pro Speed Spool Baitcast Reel is built on an ergonomically tapered aluminum frame with graphite side-plates, a braid-ready titanium-anodized aluminum U-spool, and an advanced dual-stage titanium-coated line guide to ensure smooth line flow. 
Bass Pro Shop Extreme Baitcast Reel
Pros
- Direcast aluminum spool
- Features a smooth 6+1 bearing system
- PowerLock instant anti-reverse system
- Comfortable 90mm aluminum recurve handle
- Smooth and efficient inertia transfer braking system
Cons
- It is rather small
Here is yet another great baitcasting reel from Bass Pro Shop, the Extreme Baitcast Reel. This reel is designed for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. The Direcast aluminum spool on this reel is extremely strong and ensures smooth operation. Additionally, the Extreme Baitcast Reel features a smooth six plus one bearing system. This system ensures that the reel is smooth and consistent when casting.
The PowerLock instant anti-reverse system on this reel is a great feature, as it ensures that the reel will not slip when casting. Plus, the Extreme Baitcast Reel is fitted with a soft-touch thumb bar for added comfort. The comfortable 90mm aluminum recurve handle on this reel is also a great feature, as it ensures that the reel is comfortable to use.
Lastly, the smooth and efficient inertia transfer braking system on this reel is a great feature, as it ensures that the reel will not slip when casting.
Fish at your best. The Bass Pro Shops Extreme Baitcast Reel supports your quest for performance, without breaking the bank. Everything you need for precision casting, smooth retrieves, and successful hookups is here.
Bass Pro Shop Megacast Reel
Pros
- Lightweight graphite frame
- Anodized aluminum spool
- Features an efficient magnetic braking system
- It has up to 12lbs of drag power
- 4-bearing system
- PowerLock anti-reverse feature
Cons
- Snapping sounds when casting
The Bass Pro Shop Megacast Reel is a great reel for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. The lightweight graphite frame on this reel is extremely strong and ensures smooth operation. Furthermore, the anodized aluminum spool on this reel is also extremely strong and ensures smooth operation. The Megacast Reel features an efficient magnetic braking system that ensures smooth and consistent casting.
The Megacast Reel is also fitted with up to 12lbs of drag power. This reel also features a four-bearing system that ensures smooth and consistent operation. Lastly, the PowerLock anti-reverse feature on this reel is a great feature, as it ensures that the reel will not slip when casting.
The Bass Pro Shops MegaCast Baitcast Reel is fishably compact and packed with lightweight features, including our all-aluminum recurve handle and sturdy graphite frame. 
FAQ
Answer: The pros use baitcasting reels that are designed for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. Some of the top-of-the-line baitcasting reels on the market include the Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel, the Bass Pro Shop Extreme Baitcast Reel, and the Bass Pro Shop Megacast Reel.
Answer: The Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel is the easiest baitcaster to cast. This reel features an ergonomic design, making it comfortable to use. Additionally, the graphic side plates add a touch of style to the reel. The double-shielded, ten-ball-bearing system ensures that the reel is smooth and consistent when casting.
Answer: Baitcasting reels offer anglers a number of advantages. First and foremost, baitcasting reels are designed for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. Additionally, baitcasting reels offer a number of features that make them easier to use than other types of fishing reels.
Answer: Baitcasting reels are designed for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. Additionally, baitcasting reels offer a number of features that make them easier to use than other types of fishing reels. Some of these features include and ergonomic design, a smooth and consistent drag system, and a power handle.
Conclusion
The best Bass Pro Shop Baitcasters are the ones that are designed for anglers who demand the very best in terms of performance and durability. Some of the top-of-the-line baitcasting reels on the market include the Lew’s BB Speed Spool Baitcast Reel, the Bass Pro Shop Extreme Baitcast Reel, and the Bass Pro Shop Megacast Reel.
All in all, the Shimano Curado is the best baitcaster for the money. It is a great reel for anglers of all skill levels, and it offers a smooth and consistent drag system.
I hope that this review has helped you choose the right baitcaster. There is a time in every young angler’s life when it’s time for them to upgrade to something bigger and better. Consider challenging yourself with a baitcaster!
| Product Image | Primary Rating / Price | Primary Button |
|---|---|---|
|
Best Overall
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
- Shimano Curado DC Review: The Everyman’s Baitcaster - August 25, 2023
- Shimano Bantam Review Unveiling Ultimate Precision and Power - August 17, 2023
- Daiwa Zillion SV TW Review: Revolutionizing Effortless Baitcasting - July 22, 2023