10 Best Crankbait Reels: Some Of The Best Cranking Reels With Top Ratings
One of the most commonly used bass lures is the crankbaits. It can be found in a myriad of shapes and sizes and is a vibrant palette of colors. They enable the angler to cover the water while tempting any hungry fish around with the flashing and wiggling. We can say that any lure with a piece of metal or plastic poking out from the underside is a crankbait.
However, there are certain features, which distinguish them from the other lures around. The key sub-groups divide into the lipless and lipped bait groups. On the whole, crankbaits assure a lot of action and satisfaction of the angler if paired in the right combination with the right line, reel, and rod.
Now, the thing is, there are a bunch of best crankbait reels available in the market. So, of this overwhelming variety, how do you find the best cranking reel for yourself? Well, fret no more. We did all the groundwork and prepared a list of some of the best baitcasting reel for crankbaits that you can get your hands on. In the sections that follow, we will review all of these best crankbait reels one by one. Reading through the features, pros, and cons, you can decide which amongst them is the good crankbait reel for you. We will also give you a buying guide to simplify the decision-making process for you.
Quickly Navigate Through The Best Crankbait Reels
- Top Rated Best Crankbait Reels
- Lew’s Fishing Tournament MB Baitcast Reel
- Daiwa Tatula SV TW
- Kastking Royale Baitcasting Reel
- Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
- Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel
- Pflueger President Pressp30x
- Piscifun Torrent 18LB Carbon Fiber Crankbait Reel
- Abu Garcia BMAX3 Max Low-Profile Fishing Crankbait Reel
- Sougayilang Baitcasting Fishing Reel
- Shimano SLX DC
- Best Crankbait Reels Buying Guide
- Best Cranking Reels: Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Top Rated Best Crankbait Reels
Product | Rating | Price | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|
Lew’s Fishing Tournament MB Baitcast Reel – Best Crankbait Reels |
4.7 |
$119.97 | Buy Now |
Daiwa Tatula SV TW |
4.7 |
$193.69-$305.99 | Buy Now |
KastKing Royale Baitcasting Reel |
4.7 |
$73.99 | Buy Now |
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel |
4.4 |
$39.49 | Buy Now |
Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel |
4.5 |
$159.99 | Buy Now |
Pflueger President Pressp30x |
4.7 |
$64.95 | Buy Now |
Piscifun Torrent 18LB Carbon Fiber Crankbait Reel |
4.4 |
$39.49 | Buy Now |
Abu Garcia BMAX3 Max Low-Profile Fishing Crankbait Reel |
4.6 |
$49.95 | Buy Now |
Sougayilang Baitcasting Fishing Reel |
4.4 |
$39.49 | Buy Now |
Shimano SLX DC |
4.8 |
$189.99 | Buy Now |
1. Lew’s Fishing Tournament MB Baitcast Reel – Best Baitcasting Reel For Crankbaits
Our top pick for the best cranking reel has truly earned its place and is a very well-deserved candidate for the top spot. This reel has the potential to offer you a twenty-pound drag with no excess weight that can curtail you. Thus, it is the best cranking reel, regardless of their skill levels and abilities.
One of the notable aspects of this best cranking reel is that it is incredibly lightweight. Thus, it is easy for you to handle and manage, regardless of whether you are a pro or just starting out.
Typically, the only problem with this otherwise best cranking reel is that its drag can be tricky for it to tune rightly. This can cause you some frustration while you are on the water. On the whole, it is a solid pick and is sure the best cranking reel for all anglers who need a quality crankbait reel. You can easily manipulate and handle it. Its durable design means that it will be able to stand the test of time and last you for many, many years.
$119.97 |
4.7 |
Buy Now |
Key Features
- 23-inch line retrieval rate
- Multi-brake settings with an adjustable external magnetic brake and an internal brake
- Drilled and forged, double anodized aluminum U style spool
- 20-pound drag strength
- 6:1 gear ratio
- Metal and carbon body
- Easily removable palming graphite side plate
- 7 ounces in weight
- One-piece die-cast aluminum frame
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Cons
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2. Daiwa Tatula SV TW – Runner Up Best Baitcasting Reel For Crankbaits
Next in our list of the best crankbait reels is the Daiwa Tatula SV TW. Recent buyers for this reel have been quite satiated with this reel, and many find it the best cranking reel, and we cannot agree more. From its functionality to its appearance and sturdiness, it is everything people look for when shopping for the best cranking reel. The anglers can employ this reel on a daily basis. Many buyers have reported that is compact and can easily fit into their palms. However, we feel that it does feel a bit heavy for its compactness, which can be quite discomforting when you want to engage in long fishing hours.
The most notable thing about this best cranking reel is its durability. Further, it is super-smooth and looks very pristine. This reel employs top-quality components, which make it long-lasting and durable while adding on to the bait. With this reel, you can always expect smooth and longer casting.
Being one of the best crankbait reels, you can easily tweak it to cater to your needs and preferences. This is the best cranking reel for someone who seeks a reel that demands almost minimal maintenance. For this, this product does seem perfect. Anglers who need a reel, which can cast smoothly and help you cover longer distances will truly appreciate this reel. If you are an angler seeking a small but heavy-duty reel to complement your rods, you can derive a benefit from this reel.
This has been ranked at number two on our list of the best crankbait reels, and deservingly so. This reel can comfortably withstand the pressure of combating a predator fish. On the whole, it is an incredible product that you can consider.
$193.69 – $313.48 |
4.7 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Compact body with bright glitter coating
- T-wing System allows the line to flow freely
- Even distribution during the retrieve
- Line drops into the narrow, lower channel of the T-Wing
- Special material applied to induct rotor
- SV Spool made of Super Duralumin
- Lightweight
- High strength performance
- SV Spool with Air Brake System
- Lightweight lures with ease and no back lash
- Exclusive swept handle for less wobble of the rod and reel during retrieve
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Cons
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3. Kastking Royale – Another Best Baitcasting Reel For Crankbaits
A primary selling point of this KastKing reel is that it is corrosion-resistant, which is a quintessential part of its design. It is this aspect of this reel, which makes it perfect for all water types. Further, it is a good crankbait reel, which is quite affordable, and will suit even people who are low on budget.
You will love the versatility of this rod. It can be used in both freshwater and saltwater without any issues. This means that you only have to carry one reel and not two whenever you intend to travel and do fishing at your destination.
However, there is one problem with this reel. For the reel to work and function well, the drag and brake have to be adjusted, which does become quite frustrating to do every time.
Overall, this reel does offer a good quality despite its low price tag. Thus, it is quite a versatile pick, which is phenomenal for the anglers regardless of their abilities and skill levels. The very fact that it is ideal for use in both freshwater and saltwater makes it a huge hit.
$73.99 |
4.7 |
Buy Now |
Key Features
- Instant anti-reverse
- Stainless-steel kick levers
- 5 element magnetic brakes with 10 adjustments to control backlash
- Brass pinion gears and worm drives
- Carbon drag has 17.6 lbs of drag power
- Suitable for both right and left-handed anglers
- 10 double-shielded, stainless-steel bearings
- Hardened aluminum main gears for extreme durability and lightweight
- Ideal for both freshwater and saltwater use
- Can pick from gear ratio reel including 5.3:1, 6.6:1, 7.3:1 or 8.1:1 by its color
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Cons
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4. Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
The next one in our list of the best crankbait reels is the Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel. This is the best pick for times when you want to be sneaky while you capture the trophy fish that lets you sit in total silence and concealment for as long as it would take.
The primary selling point for this best cranking reel is that it is super quiet. Thus, if you are in a place where silence is mandatory, this can be one of the best crankbait reels, as it will certainly assure you a phenomenal outcome.
Its low-profile design is indeed seen as one of the most notable factors of this reel. However, this also means that it has a limited line available. It can be quite an issue depending on your preferences and aspirations.
Hence, if you require a good crankbait reel, which can enable you to enjoy your reeling experience without yielding any sound while you hunt for your prey, this can be an outstanding choice.
$39.49 |
4.4 |
Buy Now |
Key Features
- Innovative, employs four-washer
- Industrial durable-strength
- Low profile baitcasting reel
- Climate-resistant Japanese Hami cut 3604 brass gears
- Physically powerful
- 18LB carbon fiber drag to handle the big fish
- Low profile design bait caster featuring 7.1:1 gear ratios
- Super Silent high-speed reel
- Unique side-plate oil port for prolonged maintenance
- Strong double wind shafts and backlash-eliminating 0-10 magnetic dial-in settings
Pros
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Cons
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5. Abu Garcia Revo SX Low Profile Fishing Reel
How can any list of the best crankbait reels be completed without the inclusion of the offerings from one of the most reputed brands, Abu Garcia? Abu Garcia is indeed one of the most trusted brands in the fishing world, and for a deserving reason. Its Revo SX low-profile casting reel does complete justice to the brand’s reputation. This reel has quite a customer delight for a long time.
This reel is engineered with nine stainless-steel bearings and a single roller bearing. Its ball bearings ensure a good retrieve and cast action, which does not quite feel like the line is striking. So, you will never have to overcompensate by cranking faster or in a weird pattern.
It is a good crankbait reel, which is made from X2-crafted alloy, carbon fiber and brass that makes it robust yet very lightweight while offering a smooth and comfortable angling experience. Don’t we all enjoy a fishing battle? However, no angler wants to fight the equipment only to reach the fish. Its MagTrax magnetic brake ensures the correct amount of braking power that yields a consistent and easy casting motion. So, you no longer have to be worried about the line getting tangled, and just focus on your aim.
$159.99 |
4.5 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- MagTrax brake system
- Ultra-lightweight design with X2-Craftic alloy frame and C6 carbon side plate
- Dura gear system and titanium-coated line guide ensure long-lasting durability
- Wide Infiniti II spool design
- Accurate casting of heavy loads
- Carbon Matrix drag system assures consistent and smooth drag
- D2 Gear Design provides efficiency
- Extended bent cranking handles
- Great torque for hard-pulling fish
- 9 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing provides smooth operation
- Compact bent handle and star
Pros
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Cons
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6. Pflueger PRESSP30X President Spinning Fishing Reel
Pflueger President Pressp30x is indeed one of the best crankbait reels and certainly one of the popular models on the list. A major reason for this reel’s mass popularity can be attributed to its affordable and budget pricing. Further, being one of the best crankbait reels, this one delivers both smoothness and robustness for pro and amateur anglers. The reel is a widely preferred choice for freshwater, and indeed for many good reasons.
This is a good crankbait reel, which features a durable and aircraft-grade aluminum handle. Further, its bread-prepared coil and nine hardened steel ball bearings only add to its popularity. It is also one of the best crankbait reels owing to its lightweight and quality construction. Engineered with superior graphite rotor and body, this reel is both light and durable at the same time. The turn-around moment employs a one-way grip bearing that boosts the wrench control. The twist prepared coil accompanies a classic gap design that reduces the weight for this reel.
The only problem we see even with this best cranking reel is that it is not right for saltwater as it comes sans seals around the main bearings and shaft. The braid ready spool is ported and made from solid aluminum. The series of vertical rubber grommets ensure the slipper braid to be tied directly to the spool. One notable thing is that it will grip tightly without the need for mono backing.
Stainless Steel or the Oil Felt Drag of this very good crankbait reel ensures consistent drag pressure and makes this reel corrosion-resistant. Furthermore, the reel has a soft touch and an ergonomic knot, making it easy for you to grip the knob using an effortless and effective dimpled knot design, which makes it fit nicely on the fingertips.
$64.95 |
4.7 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- 10 ball bearing System
- Line capacity – Mono: 255/4,145/6,130/8 and Braid: 275/6,190/8,160/10
- Engineered with stainless steel corrosion resistant ball bearings
- Graphite body and rotor
- Gear ratio – 2:1
- Lightweight graphite reel construction
- Braid ready spool
- Braid can be tied directly to spool
- Sealed drag washers that are always lubricated and smooth
- Slow oscillation gearing
- Better line lay and minimizes line twist
Pros
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Cons
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7. Piscifun Torrent 18LB Carbon Fiber Crankbait Reel
Next in line for the best crankbait reels is the Piscifun Torrent 18LB Carbon Fiber Crankbait Reel. It is available in both left and right-handed operation, which makes it accessible to even more fishers. Known for its rugged three design, which gives this best cranking reel an incredible 18-pound carbon fiber drag, it is a good value addition to your fishing accessory kit.
A significant reason we feel it is one of the best crankbait reels is its ability to be climate-resistant due to its super-durable Japanese Hami cut 3604 brass gears, which ensures that your reel is designed to last.
Being one of the best crankbait reels, it is undoubtedly a phenomenal pick for all the fishers. So, regardless of your experience and skillset, this one will surely make the cut for you. It has a silent gear ratio of 7.1:1 gear ratio, which amalgamates with the six shielded ball bearings to deliver a silky smooth performance. Its bearings are made of stainless steel material, which makes them corrosion-resistant, and a good pick for all the fishing climates. Lastly, it is one of the best crankbait reels owing to its phenomenal backlash eliminating technology.
$39.49 |
4.4 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Advanced 4-washer reel
- Industrial durable-strength
- 18LB carbon fiber drag to handle the big fish
- Climate-resistant Japanese Hami cut 3604 brass gears
- 1:1 gear ratio
- Versatile angler
- Strong double wind shafts and backlash-eliminating 0-10 magnetic dial-in settings
Pros
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Cons
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8. Abu Garcia BMAX3 Max Low-Profile Fishing Crankbait Reel
Next in our best crankbait reels is a super-lightweight bait cast reel, which is a superb option for anyone who intends to spend long days on the water. It is a good crankbait reel with a low-profile design, which is very easy to maneuver and hold and is a phenomenal pick for anyone who enjoys long fishing sessions. Its bent handle well combines with the recessed reel, which offers this best cranking reel an optimal ergonomic grip.
In totality, the reel has a total of five ball bearings. Its stainless steel engineering ensures that the ball bearings perform well regardless of the water type you fish in. Moreover, as it is corrosion-resistant, you can take it for freshwater and saltwater fishing and have an eventful day at fishing. With its MagTrax brake system, you will have absolute control to achieve a more accurate cast.
$49.95 |
4.6 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Lightweight design
- 4 stainless steel ball bearings
- MagTrax brake system that accentuates casting accuracy
- Single piece graphite frame and side plates
- Clear tip design for sensitivity and strength
- Compact bent handle and recessed reel provide an ergonomic grip
- Gear Ratio:4:1
- Drag: 18 lbs
- IPT: 26 inches
Pros
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Cons
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9. Sougayilang Baitcasting Fishing Reel
Next in line of our best crankbait reels is the phenomenally affordable and excellent reel by Sougayilang. It is a good crankbait reel and has a gear ratio of 7.0:1. The reel weighs approximately 7.6 ounces. This is the best cranking reel, owing to its aluminum handle and a lightweight graphite shell.
The grad system on this reel comes packed with 18 pounds of dragging power. So, this implies that your drags will always be effortless, powerful, and very smooth. The reel has 11 + 1 ball bearings. This means that your reel will last you as long as possible.
It is engineered with an aluminum body, which does not corrode or rust from water exposure. It also implies that it is a good crankbait reel for use in both freshwater and saltwater without any problem. The reel employs rubber cork handles. So, you will have a good grip on the reel as reel in the catch.
Another thing that makes it a good crankbait reel is its magnetic brake system, enabling you to cast as much as you want without the line traveling too far away. You can effortlessly control the distance that your bait travels without ever over or under casting. Moreover, it is a good crankbait reel because it comes with a one-year warranty.
Though it is otherwise one of the best crankbait reels, there is a small problem. A good crankbait reel needs a fine braking system. So, the magnetic braking system is a bit ineffective here. We barely saw a difference between casting freely and using a system as we throw the line out. So, we believe that the braking system could surely use work. Otherwise, the anglers would have to turn into physics experts to cast at the right distance.
$39.49 |
4.4 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Reel Weight 7.6Oz/215g
- Line Capacity: 0.26mm/140m, 0.28mm/120m 0.30mm/110m
- Gear Ratio 7.0:1
- 11+1 Shielded Ball Bearings
- 18 Lbs Drag
- Baitcast Reel Made Of Carbon Construction Body
- Corrosion Resistant
- CNC Machined Aluminum Spool
- MaxiDur Ball Bearings
- High-Tensile Gear
- State-Of-The-Art 3 Disc Carbon Fiber Star Drag System
- 0-9 Magnetic Brake
- 33 Inch Extended Aluminum Crank Handle
- Suitable for outdoor travel, freshwater, saltwater, surf, boat, or inshore fishing
- Can use it to catch small to medium sized fish, such as bass, crappies, perch, trout, salmon, bluegills and walleyes
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10. Shimano SLX DC
Last we have Shimano’s new “DC” Digital Control – Best cranking reel. The casting technology of this reel makes it a perfect pick for casting crankbaits a breeze. Regardless of whether you are casting the plugs into the wind or changing from deep divers to medium flat side crankbaits, its cast control system will monitor the spool’s rotational speed and always apply proper braking. Furthermore, it is a good crankbait reel that will enable you to cast farther with minimum backlashes.
In this good crankbait reel, you have three gear ratio options to pick from in both the right-handed and left-handed retrievers. In our view, the base 6.3:1 retrieve is perfect for cranking most types of baits. If you want one for burning shallow square bill crankbaits and lipless crankbaits, then you could possibly shop for the one with a 7.2:1 gear ratio. Its frame is the Hagane alloy materials, which are light and rigid for a solid and powerful feel, which helps you fully control the fish and the bait. Lastly, if you need a cranking reel with the most innovative technology, then SLX DC has it all. It is also very affordable.
$189.99 |
4.8 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Metal reel body with high rigidity
- Hagane Body
- Line Capacity: 120/10, 110/12
- Weight:6 ounces
- External adjustment knob
- SVS Infinity brake system technology
- Easy-to-manage
- Super Free Spool
- Consistent spool control and brake force
- SVS Infinity controls spool speed for precision casting
- Incredibly smooth feel casting and retrieving lures
- Was designed to eliminate friction on the spool shaft during the cast
Pros
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Cons
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Best Cranking Reel Buyer’s Guide
Well, if truth be told, of the myriad of best baitcasting reel for crankbaits, finding the one that best caters to your needs can be quite a task. It will require some research and a lot of careful planning. Before we help you find the best cranking reel for your needs, what is a crankbait rod? It is a rod that allows in fishing bass and is engineered to cover water very promptly and explore various depths. The reel you select has a significant impact on the overall fishing experience and can be the primary difference between a disappointing trip and a great catch. There are a bunch of factors that you need to consider when shopping for the best cranking reel. Further, you need to understand the differences that can help you make a more informed choice.
Gear Ratio
The reel’s gear ratio is the number of times the spool rotates with every single turn of the handle. If you are interested in crankbait fishing, the best baitcasting reel for crankbaits will be the ones that have a gear ratio of 5.3 and 7.5 spool revolutions for every single revolution of the handle. It will give the lure a more natural and slower motion, which can attract the fish.
Line Recovery
Line recovery decides how many lines will be retrieved with every crank. For a crankbait lure, the recovery must be in the low to mid-twenties to assure the best results.
Increased Torque
High torque means a low line recovery rate and gear ratio. If the torque is high, you will have to put in lesser effort to reel big baits. It also means lesser stress on your wrist and arms, thus reducing the chances of wrist fatigue and a more hearty day at the water.
Combination
The combination of the fine spool, cranking rod, and a phenomenal braking system gives you a supreme package and assures a great fishing experience.
Ball Bearings
See, many people do not know, but the quality of ball bearings is a lot more vital than the number of ball bearings in your best baitcasting reel for crankbaits. If your ball bearings are of low quality, they will happen to lock-up and cause you a headache down the line. The best picks are the ones that are sealed, double-shielded, and shielded.
Best Cranking Reels: Frequently Asked Questions
Ques 1. Can I opt for a spinning reel for the crankbaits?
Ans. Well, a good crankbait reel can be a spinning reel or a bait caster. In our view, if you are a beginner, you should, in fact, opt for a spinning reel for the crankbaits. If you are fishing during the strong winds or with lightweight lures, the spinning reels will always be a better choice as opposed to the baitcasting reels.
Ques 2. Is it better to have more ball bearings in the reel?
Ans. In all honesty, it is a big myth. Of course, having more ball bearings does ensure more stability and smoothness. However, it also depends on the material of which these ball bearings are made of. If the material is not corrosion-resistant, your reel may not be ideal for use in saltwater.
Ques 3. How fast should you retrieve the crankbait?
Ans. The ideal retrieve with a good crankbait reel is just as fast as possible. You should practice a bunch of essential techniques, such as yo-yo, stop and go, and burn in.
Ques 4. When is the ideal time and time for crankbait fishing?
Ans. Anywhere between late autumn and early spring is the ideal time for crankbait fishing. You will require to know the kind of techniques and bait to use in the different seasons. Even during the winter, while the ass’ metabolism is lowered, the crankbaits can still trigger a reaction.
Ques 5. What type of repair and maintenance do you need to conduct for the longevity of your crankbait reel?
Ans. To ensure that your best cranking reel lasts you a long time you should undertake regular disassembling. Further, it would help if you cleaned off any residue in the reel with alcohol and water. Moreover, you should grease all the parts for thorough maintenance. Do ensure that you clean and washout after every use. It is particularly recommended for people who use their best crankbait reels in salt water to clean and wash out following every use.
Conclusion
To ensure that you end up with the best cranking reel, it is essential to be aware of the necessary guidelines and background about the product. Further, having a direction does need some effort and time. In a lot of cases, people gather fragments of information, stick it together to have a concise idea about a thing. However, to help you save all the time and effort, we have this article handy where we have reviewed some of the best crankbait reels. Hopefully, reading this guide and our reviews of the best baitcasting reel for crankbaits will make it easy to shop for a good crankbait reel that meets your needs and preferences. Happy Fishing!