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Best Crankbait Reels for Bass Fishing

By: FishUSA Staff

July 30, 2025

Crankbaits are a staple in any angler’s tackle box. From shallow-running squarebills to deep-diving plugs, crankbaits cover water quickly and trigger reaction strikes from aggressive bass. But to fish crankbaits effectively, you need the right reel. A good crankbait reel provides the proper gear ratio, smooth retrieval, and enough torque to handle resistance while keeping fish pinned. This guide covers the best crankbait reels available at FishUSA, breaking down features that help you cast farther, control bait depth, and fight big fish with confidence.

Crankbaits are a staple in any angler’s tackle box. From shallow-running squarebills to deep-diving plugs, crankbaits cover water quickly and trigger reaction strikes from aggressive bass. But to fish crankbaits effectively, you need the right reel. A good crankbait reel provides the proper gear ratio, smooth retrieval, and enough torque to handle resistance while keeping fish pinned. This guide covers the best crankbait reels available at FishUSA, breaking down features that help you cast farther, control bait depth, and fight big fish with confidence.

Table of Contents

  • What Makes a Great Crankbait Reel?
  • Best Crankbait Reels
  • How to Choose the Right Crankbait Reel for Your Needs
  • Final Thoughts

What Makes a Great Crankbait Reel?

When choosing a reel for crankbaits, look for these key features:

  • Lower Gear Ratios (5.4:1 to 6.5:1): Slower retrieve helps keep crankbaits in the strike zone longer and prevents overworking the bait.
  • Smooth Drag System: Helps manage surging fish, especially with treble hooks.
  • High Line Capacity: Important for deep-diving crankbaits where long casts are essential.
  • Comfort and Ergonomics: Casting crankbaits all day can be tiring; lightweight, palmable reels reduce fatigue.

Best Crankbait Reels

Shimano Curado MGL Low-Profile Casting Reel

If you’re serious about crankbait fishing, the Shimano Curado MGL Low-Profile Casting Reel is a top performer. Its MGL Spool allows for longer casts with less effort—perfect for deep cranks and covering water efficiently. The lower gear ratio (available in 6.2:1) gives you the ideal speed for working mid- to deep-diving plugs. Shimano's MicroModule gearing and SVS Infinity braking make this reel incredibly smooth and consistent.

Best For: Long casting, deep crankbaits, and precise control over lure speed.

Buy Shimano Curado MGL Low-Profile Casting Reel

Shimano Curado 200 M Low-Profile Baitcasting Reel

The Shimano Curado 200 M is an excellent all-around option for crankbait anglers. It offers a slightly larger frame and spool than the MGL, which means greater line capacity for deep divers and heavy lines. The ergonomic shape makes it comfortable in hand during long retrieves, and its reliable drag system keeps fish pinned.

Best For: Versatility across crankbait sizes and confident hooksets with treble-hooked lures.

Buy Shimano Curado 200 M Low-Profile Baitcasting Reel

Daiwa Tatula TW Casting Reel

The Daiwa Tatula TW Casting Reel is known for its smooth performance and high casting efficiency thanks to the T-Wing System. This reel is ideal for crankbait anglers who fish shallow to mid-depth baits, especially in pressured or clear water where long casts are key. The 6.3:1 gear ratio is ideal for controlling retrieve speed without overworking your lure.

Best For: Beginners to pros seeking a smooth, long-casting reel for cranks and jerkbaits.

Buy Daiwa Tatula TW Casting Reel

Lew's BB1 Pro LFS Low-Profile Casting Reel

The Lew's BB1 Pro LFS is built for crankbait fishing. It features a 5.1:1 gear ratio that’s perfect for deep divers, along with a lightweight aluminum frame and dual braking system. This reel gives you the power and control needed to grind deep baits all day without fatigue.

Best For: Deep cranking, tournament-level bass anglers, and slow-rolling heavy plugs.

Buy Lew's BB1 Pro LFS Low-Profile Casting Reel

Shimano SLX XT Low-Profile Casting Reel

The Shimano SLX XT offers premium Shimano performance at a more budget-friendly price point. Its compact frame, 6.3:1 gear ratio, and excellent castability make it a great choice for shallow- to mid-depth crankbaits. It’s also a strong pick for anglers just starting to build a technique-specific rod and reel collection.

Best For: Entry-level to intermediate anglers looking for a value-packed crankbait reel.

Buy Shimano SLX XT Low-Profile Casting Reel

How to Choose the Right Crankbait Reel for Your Needs

Not sure which reel is right for your setup? Here’s a quick breakdown to help:

Fishing Style

Recommended Reel

Long casting with deep cranks

Shimano Curado MGL or Lew's BB1 Pro

All-purpose crankbait fishing

Shimano Curado 200 M or Daiwa Tatula TW

Budget-conscious, versatile option

Shimano SLX XT

Final Thoughts

The best crankbait reels give you more than just smooth casts—they let you control your presentation, manage fish effectively, and fish comfortably for hours. Whether you’re targeting summer ledge bass with a deep-diving crank or burning a squarebill over grass flats, the right reel makes a big difference. Browse FishUSA’s full selection of baitcasting reels to dial in your crankbait game and fish with confidence.

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