These fishing reels were entered in ICAST’s Best of Show competition. (Photo by Lynn Burkhead)
July 20, 2021
By Scott Bernarde
Note: Product descriptions from manufacturers
Savage Gear SG8 BC Photo by Scott Bernarde With power, style, performance and a wide range of unique features, this baitcasting reel has it all. The 100- and 400-size versions are designed perfectly for casting light lures, such as soft-plastics and small crankbaits, but they can also handle medium-to-heavy baits, giving anglers great versatility. Built strong and rigid with one-piece aluminum frame.
MSRP: $199.99
Shimano Curado MGL 150 Photo by Scott Bernarde The newest edition to the tournament-tested lineup, the Curado MGL 150 offers versatility in the lightest Curado to date. The combination of the 150 size pool from MagnumLight Spool enables anglers to fish a variety of lures with greater casting distance and accuracy. Built to handle giants with a rigid HAGANE body and durable Cross Carbon Drag the Curado MGL 150 features precise gearing combine with X-Ship MicroModule gearing and SilentTune for an unmatched reeling experience.
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MSRP: $199.99
Fitzgerald Fishing FX8 Casting Reel Photo by Scott Bernarde The FX8 casting reel is designed to be an affordable quality quality reel to suit the needs of all anglers. With 8 ball bearings for extreme smoothness and 16 pounds of fish-fighting drag, it is ready for a smooth battle with any fish you hook. Available in 7.2:1 gear ratio in both right- and left-hand versions.
MSRP: $129.99
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ProFISHiency Sniper Photo by Scott Bernarde Fast just got faster with the ProFISHiency Sniper. So, here's how it started. When no one was looking our baitcaster reel and our spincast reel hooked up had a baby and named him Sniper. Sniper quickly grew up to be the fastest spincast reel in the world with a 6.5:1 gear ratio and remarkable 31 IPT. Features include 12+1 steel bearings, all metal gears, double anodized Alu cone, carbon washer drag system, Alu star drag, 85 yards. 10-pound line and weighs just 9.9 ounces.
MSRP: $99.99
KastKing MegaJaws Elite Photo by Scott Bernarde The new KastKing Mega Jaws Elite might just be the most versatile baitcasting reel in the world. The low-profile, all-aluminum frame is the perfect palm-sized reel. The reel features 11 BB, an aluminum main and pinion gear, and a new game-changing braking system called AMB. AMB is an automatically controlled centrifugal system that works with both friction and magnetics. It is available into gear ratios 7.2: one and 9.1:1.
MSRP: $119.99
Zebco Bullet MG Reel Photo by Scott Bernarde Zebco has revolutionized its fastest spincast ever to create the Bullet MG reel. The Bullet hauls 29.6 inches of line per turn of the handle, at 20% lighter weight. This reel allows you to fish using many different techniques because of its speed. Designed with an ultra-lightweight magnesium body, precision-machined aluminum gears and a Glideline ball bearing. the Bullet is machined for silky casts and lightning-fast retrieves.
MSRP: $129.95
Lew’s BB1 Pro LFS Speed Spool Photo by Scott Bernarde Team Lew's redefines exceptionalism with the upgrades to a fan favorite. A mainstay since 2012, the new BB1 Pro offers additional features. The 27-position QuietCast Adjustable Centrifugal Braking System offers precise control of spool braking and quick adjustments on the water. This reel also features a dual-stage titanium-coated line guide position farther away from the spool for reduced friction and maximize casting performance.
MSRP: $199.99
Daiwa Zillion SV TW Photo by Scott Bernarde Featuring a brand-new frame design improving palmability as well as Daiwa's new Hyper Drive Design for maximum position and power. The real also features the new SV booster system that gives you all the control you know and love from our SV Concept, now with the added benefit of longer casting distance. Complete with an aluminum frame, T-Wing system, G1 Duralumin SV spool and Zero Adjuster. The Gazillion SV TW is a combination of years of innovation.
MSRP: $349.99
Okuma Hakai DT Low-Profile Photo by Scott Bernarde At Okuma a new era takes flight with the new Hakai DT Low-Profile reels. This collaboration with Dream Fishing Tackle has been a long time in the works. Weighing in at only 5.9 ounces, these lightweight baitcast reels are feature-packed and ready for battle. Available in 10 different SKUs and configurations. Offering a 6.2, 7.1 and 8.1:1 gear ratio in both left- and right-hand retrieve.
MSRP: $169.99
Abu Garcia MAX Pro Photo by Scott Bernarde With a 7.1:1 gear ratio, the Pro is the fastest reel in Abu's Max lineup. That speed lets you quickly retrieve slack in your line for improved hooksets. Equipped with oversized co-molded soft touch knobs, the Pro provides long-lasting comfort on marathon days. With durable 7+1 stainless steel bearing and Mag Trax Braking systems, and at a price point even casual anglers can afford.
MSRP: $84.99
Lunkerhunt AUX Line of Reels Photo by Scott Bernarde The AUX line of reels is everything an angler wants and needs for a day on the water. The spinning reels provide an offering of four colors matching the AUX rod lineup and come in two of the most popular size. Product features: 5.2:1 gear ratio, left-right interchangeability, 5 BB and OWC. CNC handle with rubber knob. Available in 2000 and 3000 sizes.
MSRP: $69.99
