Baitcaster Fishing Reels allow for casting lures like jigs.

Baitcaster Fishing Reels allow for casting lures like jigs.

On the other end of the spectrum, baitcasting reels allow for casting lures like jigs, spinner baits and crankbaits with pinpoint accuracy, but they have dialled-in drag resistance and require a higher skill set to be able to thumb the spool as line flows off. If you can’t find that sweet spot of thumb pressure, you’ll experience a backlash, a bird’s nest of tangled line.

Generally, you can launch a lure further with a baitcaster, because the line flows directly straight off the spool and not in a circular motion as with a spinning reel.

However, baitcasters do take some time to master and practice is needed to dial one into your comfort zone.

Someone proficient in casting a baitcaster will have mastery over accuracy and distance in the long run after plenty of practice, and is preferred when fishing in locations that demand such. At the same time, a spinning reel can be used in virtually every situation possible.

Bottom line – pick the spinner for inexperienced anglers and for all-around usage, employ the baitcaster when focus and precision are needed in a challenging environment, such as lily pads or dock pilings.