Below are the results of my test, along with recommendations for the best baitcasting reels for under $100. The first generation of the Lew’s LFS Speed Spool was a phenomenal reel for $100.

The best baitcasting reels of even a decade ago pale in comparison to today’s top models, which have the precision of a Swiss watch, the styling of an Italian sportscar, and the dependability of ...

Today’s baitcasting reels bear a passing resemblance to the first one I bought in 1983 as a tween, but in terms of performance there’s little comparison. Today’s reels are lighter, are more durable, ...