Best Anti Backlash Baitcast Reels of 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

If you have been into fishing long enough, you will know about the timeless debate over a spinning reel and a baitcasting reel. This is a question every fisherman faces at least once in his or her career. We’ll make it a bit simple for you. Spinning reels are good when you are a beginner. But once you have gotten the hang of the technique, you become more interested in increasing your haul. This is where baitcasting reels become your source of attention.

Baitcasters have a reputation for being intimidating. However, once you understand how they operate, you will have no difficulty maneuvering it. On the contrary, you will cast more accurately, and your number of catches will also increase. It is true that baitcasters can cause a lot of backlash. To avoid it, fishing gear brands have come up with a number of anti backlash baitcast reels. If backlash is the hurdle stopping you from using a baitcast reel, you can get an anti-backlash baitcast reel to overcome this problem once and for all.

In this article, we have listed the best anti-backlash baitcast reels. If you are interested in buying one, you should read on to know about some of the best models and choose one that suits you the best.

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Comparison of the Best Anti Backlash Baitcast Reels

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What is an Anti Backlash Baitcast Reel and What is it Used For?

In fishing, backlash means a sudden violent jerk that happens when the spool turns faster than the line leaving it. It results in the line being tangled around the spool creating a bird’s nest. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention, manufacturers came up with the idea of anti-backlash baitcast reels to overcome this issue. An anti-backlash baitcaster is essentially quite similar to a regular baitcast reel. But it is equipped with a braking system inside them that slows down the spool to prevent backlash. It can be either a centrifugal braking system or a magnetic braking system. All you have to do is press your thumb to trigger the brakes. They will stop the spool from spinning hence no backlash.

KastKing Spartacus

An anti-baitcast reel is the most effective way of preventing backlash. Let’s face it, untangling the line from a bird’s nest is lengthy, tiring, and frustrating business. And if it happens frequently, you will give up eventually and throw your gear away in frustration. You can use an anti-backlash baitcast reel to stop that from happening.

How to Choose an Anti Backlash Baitcast Reel?

Choosing a great anti-backlash baitcast reel is a risky task, especially when you are new to baitcasting. Since fishing is a popular activity, the number of fishing merchandise is also increasing day by day. Each manufacturer is adding something to its range with each passing day. So many brands and models are enough to confuse anyone. If you are feeling the same, then worry not. We will tell you some factors that you should consider when choosing an anti-backlash baitcast reel for yourself.

Brand

The first thing you should choose is the brand you want to purchase from. Today there are a number of respected brands that are reputed for their quality products. Selecting one is not simple. But you should look at the kind of features and warranties a certain brand is offering before choosing it.

Braking System

The braking system is the most important factor to consider in an anti-backlash baitcast reel. The whole performance of the reel depends on it. You must consider this carefully. A magnetic system is cheaper and easy to engage while a centrifugal system engages in a more manual way. Choose a model with a braking system that you are more comfortable in operating.

Speed

The speed of the reel plays an important role in causing or preventing backlash. It is also responsible for lowering the torque and providing superior performance. Before choosing a certain reel, always consider its speed.

Bearings

Bearings are the most important component of any reel. The number of bearing determines the casting power of a reel. The more the bearings, the better the cast. The effectiveness of a reel is dependent on the quality of the bearings. A unit with high-quality bearings is more effective than one with average quality bearings.

Frame

It is also important to consider the build of the frame. Usually, there are aluminum, alloy, and graphite frames. Reels with aluminum frames are hard to come by. They exhibit excellent performance and last longer. However, they are also heavy and expensive. Comparatively, alloy and graphite frames are lighter, cheaper, and far more common.

Key Terms to Know

To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.

  • Materials: The materials the reel is made of.
  • Hand Orientation: Which dominant hand the reel is made for.
  • Gear Ratio: This tells you the number of times the reel spool turns with each crank of the handle.
  • Bearing Type and Material: The number or type of bearings inside the reel and also the bearing material. 
  • Weight: The actual weight of the reel.
  • Maximum Drag: The amount of force the reel can withstand without the line slipping.
  • Line Compatibility: Which line types the reel is meant to be used with.

Review of the Best Anti-Backlash Baitcast Reels

Now that you have decided to buy an anti-backlash baitcast reel for yourself, you would like to know about the models available on the market, right? Frankly, the range is enormous. You will be drowned in confusion if you do not have some prior knowledge. To facilitate your search, we have listed the best anti-backlash baitcast reels. You can go through these and choose a perfect product for yourself.

Best Overall:KastKing Spartacus

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PROS

  • Comes with a dual braking system
  • It is backed with a one-year warranty
  • Handles are equipped with non-slip grips 
  • Suitable for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater
  • Features heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and spool

CONS

  • Sometimes it does not spool evenly
  • Emits strange and loud grinding noises
  • Cannot cast longer when brakes are set on max 

What Recent Buyers Report

People who recently bought this product have all agreed on its impressive performance. People really like it for its smooth casting power and huge drag. Its dual braking system has got people talking about it. Anglers report that with the combination of both centrifugal and magnetic brakes, this reel is actually backlash-free. Buyers have had some instances of it not spooling evenly, but these instances have been rare. All in all, people are satisfied with their purchase.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This anti-backlash baitcast reel stands out to us as the best overall. It has a sturdy aluminum frame and spool, making it durable and long-lasting. Its bearings are shielded, and handles are provided with non-slip grips, making it an ideal baitcaster. It is a reliable product with its one-year warranty coverage. You cannot go wrong with this one, so we suggest you consider buying it for yourself.

Who Will Use This Most

Since this is one of the best anti-backlash baitcasters, people whose fear of backlashes has stopped them from using baitcasting reels, will like using this product. Anglers who want a sturdy and reliable product will also benefit from using it. People who are looking for a baitcaster that can be used for both freshwater and saltwater are also likely to use this the most.

Bottom Line

Overall, this is one affordable product from KastKing. Being low on price does not mean that it is of low quality in any way. It is a great anti-backlash device with its dual braking system. With a corrosion-resistant aluminum body, it is bound to serve you for a long time. It is designed to work in both freshwater and saltwater applications, so it will be a great fit if you decide to buy this product.

Product Specs

Materials:

Carbon Fiber, CNC anodized aluminum spool

Hand Orientation:

Left Hand / Right Hand

Gear Ratio:

7:2:1

Bearing Material:

Stainless steel

Weight of Reel:

6 oz

Pounds of Drag:

17.6 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Mono and Braided

Runner-up:Piscifun Torrent

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PROS

  • Its gears are water-resistant
  • Comes at an affordable price
  • Features an oil port to ease lubrication
  • Bearings are shielded from oil particles, salt, and water
  • Equipped with a magnetic braking system to prevent backlash

CONS

  • Lacks in the ball bearing system
  • You have to buy its oil separately
  • The lever to release the cover is in the path of the pointer finger

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers of this baitcaster are generally satisfied by its performance. They have reported that its magnetic braking system is quite effective in preventing backlash. Some people have found its 5+1 bearing system to be lacking, while others think that it’s not a big issue. What people really like is its oil port. It does not need to be taken apart for oiling purposes. All in all, it has managed to gain public approval.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product stands out as the second-best anti-backlash baitcast reel on our list. It is equipped with a magnetic braking system that effectively stops it from backlashing. It comes with a very attractive price tag. It is built to last because of its water-resistant properties. It also boasts a reinforced main gear that has greatly improved its performance. All in all, it’s a wonderful product from a reputed brand.

Who Will Use This Most  

People who are looking for a baitcaster that is effective in stopping backlashes will find this product of great use. Anglers who don’t want to mess with the manual operation of a centrifugal braking system are also likely to use this the most. People who are looking for a quality anti-backlash barrel that is not a burden on their pocket will also benefit from using this product.

Bottom Line

This baitcaster stands second on our list for being affordable and water-resistant. It effectively prevents backlash and helps you haul an impressive catch. The greatest advantage of this reel is its oil port. You don’t have to take it apart every time you want to clean or oil it. It has an effective magnetic braking system that makes it a great pick. 

Product Specs

Materials:

Aluminum, Brass, Carbon Fiber

Hand Orientation:

Left Hand / Right Hand

Gear Ratio:

7:1:1

Bearing Material:

Stainless steel

Weight of Reel:

8 oz

Pounds of Drag:

18 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Mono and Braided

Best for the Money:Abu Garcia Black Max

[amazon fields=”B011LV0Q96″ image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]

PROS

  • It is not a burden on the pocket
  • Backed with a one-year warranty
  • Features a quality stainless steel bearing system
  • Features a one-piece graphite frame and side plate
  • Equipped with an effective magnetic braking system

CONS

  • It can get noisy sometimes
  • Difficult to be used by beginners
  • Gears start slipping after some time

What Recent Buyers Report

People who recently bought this product really like its cost-effectiveness. They are impressed by Abu Garcia for providing such a wonderful product at a low price without compromising on the quality. The one-year warranty period has also captured their interest. Buyers report that it is very smooth and easy to operate. Although, beginners do have some difficulty in maneuvering it properly. People are also satisfied by the performance of its barking system that effectively prevents backlash.

Why it Stands Out to Us

According to us, this baitcaster is the best product for its money. Coming from a reputable brand, there is no doubt about its quality. It has a stainless steel bearing system, which renders its durability. Built with a one-piece graphite frame, it is lightweight and easy to carry around. It is equipped with a patented MagTax Magnetism Braking system that effectively prevents backlash. All in all, it’s a highly recommended reel for you to consider.

Who Will Use This Most  

People who are looking for a quality anti-backlash baitcast reel but are on a tight budget are likely to use this product the most. Fishers who prefer the magnetic braking system for its ease will also find this product of great use. Plus, those who want a lightweight product that is not difficult to hold or carry will also benefit from using it.

Bottom Line

All in all, this is the best anti-backlash baitcaster for the money. If you are on a limited budget but want a product that is as effective as any high-end model, then you should seriously consider this as your top contender. It has a stainless steel bearing system and an effective magnetic braking system. These not only make it a reliable product but one that stops backlash from happening.

Product Specs

Materials:

Graphite frame, Stainless steel

Hand Orientation:

Left Hand / Right Hand

Bearing Material:

Stainless steel

Weight of Reel:

10.2 oz

4. Piscifun Perseus Dual Brakes

[amazon fields=”B074V77R2C” image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]

PROS

  • Has double line wind shafts
  • Equipped with a dual braking system
  • Contains an oil port for easier lubrication
  • Features brass gears and stainless steel bearings
  • Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications

CONS

  • It has some adjustment issues
  • Drag system leaves a lot to be desired
  • Starts making noise if the tension knob is not tightened

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers of this model report that it is a satisfying reel. People love its dual braking system, which is very effective in keeping backlashes at bay. Avid fishers like that it is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications. Some people have found its drag system a bit lacking. However, buyers like the convenience its oil port brings. They can easily oil their reel without having to take it apart every single time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This baitcaster stands out to us for its effective dual braking system. The magnetic braking system is its primary brake, but you can also engage the centrifugal braking system. It is lightweight, so you can easily hold it up for longer periods of time without having a sore arm. Its gears are essentially noiseless, and it even features a great rubber handle, which provides a superior grip even in the wettest conditions.

Who Will Use This Most

Anglers who are interested in dual brake baitcasting gear are most likely to use this the most. People who want a lightweight reel that is easy to hold and carry around will also benefit from using it. It is also a great option for people who don’t like taking their reel apart for lubrication. People who like heavy-duty reels are also likely to put it to great use.

Bottom Line

If you want to bring in a more impressive catch, then this reel should be your priority. It is a fantastic baitcaster that is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. It functions on a dual braking system, so you have a choice of using either the easier magnetic brake or the manual centrifugal bait. Both systems are almost equally effective in preventing backlashes. We suggest that you give it a closer look when you are shopping for your reel. It might be the dream reel you were looking for.

Product Specs

Materials:

Stainless steel, Aluminum

Hand Orientation:

Right Hand

Gear Ratio:

6:3:1

Bearing Material:

Stainless steel

Weight of Reel:

8 oz

Pounds of Drag:

18.5 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Braided

5. Shimano Curado I Reels

[amazon fields=”B00II1UYRC” image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]

PROS

  • It is incredibly lightweight
  • Features a rigid metal body
  • Durable design resists salt build-up
  • Suitable to use in freshwater and saltwater 
  • Equipped with Super-Free Spool technology 

CONS

  • It is a fairly expensive product
  • Not suitable for catching bigger fish species 
  • Beginners may have some difficulty casting with it 

What Recent Buyers Report

People who recently bought this baitcaster report it to be an excellent product. They like it for its smooth operation, low weight, and long casts. Users who are new to fishing have had some difficulty in operating it. Other than that, buyers also reported that they did not suffer any backlash while using this reel unless there is some mistake on their part. To conclude, people are truly impressed by its performance. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This reel stands out to us for its durability. It has a metal Hagane body that provides excellent impact resistance. It does not weigh much, so you don’t have to worry about sore arms while casting with it. It is equipped with patented Super-Free Spool technology and Stable Spool Design. Both of these help reduce friction between the spool shaft and pinion gear while sufficiently lessening the vibration on the spool. It utilizes a centrifugal braking system to emit backlash effectively. Thus, it’s a great product that you should have a look at.

Who Will Use This Most

People who don’t have a problem operating the centrifugal braking system are likely to use this the most. Anglers who want a single product to address both their freshwater and saltwater fishing usage will also put this reel to great use. People who want a durable, corrosion, and salt-resistant baitcaster will also benefit from using this unit.

Bottom Line

To sum up, this is an innovative product. This is one of the best anti-backlash baitcast reels. It uses a centrifugal braking system to get rid of backlash. It has a durable and non-corrosive design that you can use in freshwater, as well as, saltwater without having to worry about rusting or salt built-up. If you are looking for a great baitcasting reel, then you must consider this excellent product.

Product Specs

Materials:

Aluminum

Gear Ratio:

7:2:1

Bearing Material:

Aluminum

Weight of Reel:

7.4 oz

Pounds of Drag:

12 lbs

Line Compatibility:

Mono

Advantages and Disadvantages of Anti Baitcast Reels

The popularity of anti-backlash baitcast reels has surged recently. People who have used them are raving about the performance and ease of operation. However, where there is good, there is bad too. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of anti-backlash baitcast reels.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of an anti-backlash baitcast reel is its effectiveness in preventing backlash. Other than that, it also has numerous other advantages. These include:

Suitable For Heavier Lines

An anti-backlash baitcast reel is perfectly suitable to use with a heavy line. It has a line guide and rod guides that enable flawless flow and also prohibit the line from slipping off.

Less Line Twist 

Line twisting is detrimental to casting. Anti-backlash baitcast reels offer less line twisting. When you use it, you can cast better and farther. Minimal twisting means a powerful cast.

Offer Better Control 

The spool on an anti-backlash baitcast reel is designed to provide you better control of your casts. It enables you to utilize more power and torque. You have so much control over your cast that you almost determine the speed and distance of your lure.

Disadvantages

As mentioned above, where there is good, there is bad. Here are some disadvantages of anti-backlash baitcast reels.

Require Practice

Using an anti-backlash baitcast reel requires practice. It is a technique you must learn first before you can maneuver it properly. The learning curve is also quite steep.

Heavy and Bulky 

Anti-backlash baitcast reels are designed for longer castings. So they must accommodate a reasonable amount of line. This makes them quite bulky and heavy.

How to Assemble an Anti Backlash Baitcast Reel?

Baitcast reels are generally avoided because people dread backlashes, and let’s face it, baitcasters are prone to them. Beginners are always advised to start with spinning reels. Once they have sufficient experience of casting, then they can move on to baitcasting reels. Even then, using a baitcast reel requires much more practice to maneuver correctly. Otherwise, backlashes happen. Anti-backlash baitcast reels were designed to eliminate this problem. But you must know how to assemble one before you can start using it. Below we have provided a detailed step by step account of how to assemble an anti-baitcast reel.

  1. The first thing you should do is adjust the centrifugal braking system. You can do so by moving the knob located on the side of your reel. You can start by setting it on maximum. With more practice, you can gradually lower the brakes to be able to cast longer. The braking system helps you from getting a backlash.
  2. Located near the braking system is the dial for spool tension. You have to set your spool tension just right to avoid backlash. Setting it too high or low can cause a bird’s nest. You can start by tightening it all the way and then gradually loosen it till your bait hits the growing. Reel it up and try casting. If the line does not backlash, you are good to go. 
  3. Finally, adjust your drag to point when you try to pull the line out of the spool, it is hard to pull but does come out. 

With this, you have just upgraded your baitcaster to an anti-backlash baitcast reel. You are good to go out and cast with it without having to worry about backlashes. With practice, you will get better at using your baitcasting reel. Then you can play around with the settings and fine-tune them to your personal preference. 

If you have any issues understanding the procedure described above, you can check out the video given below to get it right. 

Conclusion

Above, we have provided you with a detailed account of anti-backlash baitcast reels. They certainly are a game-changer, especially for people who have been shying away from baitcasters because of the backlash. We have also provided a list of the best anti-backlash baitcast reels for you to consider. If you are looking to buy an anti-backlash baitcast reel for yourself, we strongly suggest that you get one of our recommended products. We assure you that this is a decision you will not regret.

People Also Ask

When you are a beginner at something, you are very confused. A lot of questions arise in your head. It’s better to ask them away, so you have a better understanding of the concept. Baitcast fishing is just the same. It is reputed to be very difficult, but once people know how it works, they find that it is quite easy. Below we have answered some common questions regarding baitcasters.

How Do You Stop Backlash on a Baitcaster?

Backlash happens when the speed of the lure is less than the speed of the spool. This keeps the line flowing. The extra line wraps around the reel and turns it into a bird’s cage. To stop the backlash on a baitcaster, you need to control your casting action. Make your casting action as smooth as possible. This does not mean casting lightly because that causes, rather than cures, backlashes.

What Causes Reel Backlash?

Reel backlash has a number of causes. The primary one is the speed difference between the line and the spool. A sticky fishing line can also trigger it. Uneven and rough feeding of the line can also cause a backlash. Lighter casting action is also responsible for it. Another major cause of backlash is inexperience. Anglers who are new to baitcast fishing are bound to make a few mistakes. They need to practice more if they want to avoid a bird’s cage.

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