First Bait Casting Reel?

[Abbas]

After a long break from fishing, I've started to get back into it. I've always used spinning reels, but would like to pick up my first bait casting reel. I consider myself to be beginner level when it comes to fresh water fishing and have never used a bait casting reel before. 

 

I've heard several opinions when it comes to these reels and would like some advice. I would like to stay below $100, but I'm willing to go up to $150 if needed.

 

On the cheaper side I was looking at:

-Piscifun Phantom. I've heard a lot of people bash this reel, but it seems like most of the people that talk poorly about it have never used it. I know it's peddled by a group of youtubers, but I am curious if anyone here has used this reel and what their thoughts are.

 

-Daiwa Fuego CT- at $72 this seems like a decent option. Are cheap Daiwa's like this one worth it or will this reel not hold up for long?

 

-Lew's American Hero- I haven't been able to find a ton of reviews and the one's I have are all over the board.

 

Intended price range:

-13 Fishing Origin FB and 13 Fishing Origin A- I don't know much about these reels. From what I've read they seem like a decent budget reel. What is the difference between these reels and are these even worth looking at?

 

-Shimano SLX

 

Above what I intend to spend, but will if the extra money is worth it:

-13 Fishing SZ- Haven't heard much on this reel

 

-Daiwa Tatula Reels- I've seen a lot of people talk about them, but haven't looked into them too much. 

 

This is the list that I compiled and I would love to hear some feedback on which reel may be best for the money. Are there any other reels I should consider? Overall I am looking for a reel I can learn on, that is forgiving, and will hold up over time. 

 

 

[fishballer06]

Fuego, Tatula, or SLX are what I would suggest. 

 

Buy Shimano or Daiwa and never look back. 

[Glaucus]

Fuego for sure. Best bang for the buck out there.

[EGbassing]

There are plenty of good options but I assure you that you won't be disappointed if you get a Fuego or SLX.

[NHBull]

27 minutes ago, fishballer06 said:

Fuego, Tatula, or SLX are what I would suggest. 

 

Buy Shimano or Daiwa and never look back. 

This......and buying used can get you more bang for the bick

[Joshua van Wyk]

Stick with Daiwa and Shimano. Slx and Fuego are great value reels.

[greentrout]

sale amazon ... kastking speed demon 9.3:1 ... 48.99 ...LIGHTNING FAST - IPT 37.4 ... 12  BB ...13 lbs drag ... 

 

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Sports-Outdoors-Fishing-Reels/zgbs/sporting-goods/3409711/ref=zg_bs_pg_1?_encoding=UTF8&pg=1

 

good fishing ...

[Abbas]

Thanks everyone for the advice! I ended up pulling the trigger on the Fuego. 

[MN Fisher]

5 minutes ago, Abbas said:

Thanks everyone for the advice! I ended up pulling the trigger on the Fuego. 

I'm loving my Fuego - great reel for the price.

[LionHeart]

2 hours ago, Abbas said:

Thanks everyone for the advice! I ended up pulling the trigger on the Fuego. 

You have chosen wisely 

[Vilas15]

Good choice. Lews speed spool LFS and tournament MB would gave been other good options in that price range.

[WRB]

Daiwa Tatula CT is thier best selling bait casting reel and within your budget.

Tom

[Fishes in trees]

the previous post about either buy Diawa or Shimano and don't look back is good advice.  I would add if you decide to buy Diawa, go ahead and look back, but I'm a Shimano guy and that's what I'd expect myself to say.  The Shimano SLX is a great starter Shimano reel.  When you get your nerve/wallet up to your next bait casting reel purchase, go for the Shimano Curado 150 DC.   This will become your primary reaction bait reel (spinnerbaits, chatter baits, square bills, crank baits ) for a LONG time.  Something  to remember when purchasing bait casters, when you buy quality, (A) these reels last for a long time and (B) parts that wear out are easier to come by 10+ years later when something wears out.

 

Glad that I could help, I'm a helper. . . .

[Hook2Jaw]

I came in here to suggest the Fuego and you've already bought one.

 

Excellent choice, my good man.