Blog Home
Tackle & Gear
Buying Guides
Fly Fishing
Bass
Crappie & Panfish
Salmon & Steelhead
Trout
Ice Fishing
All Categories
Authors

Best Reels for Flipping and Pitching: Precision Tools for Close-Combat Bass Fishing

By: FishUSA Staff

July 29, 2025

Flipping and pitching are power fishing techniques that put your bait exactly where bass are hiding—in thick cover, under docks, and next to laydowns. These methods require baitcasting reels with strong drag systems, fast gear ratios, and tight casting control. This guide highlights the best flipping and pitching reels available at FishUSA, perfect for both seasoned anglers and those new to short-range casting.

Flipping and pitching are power fishing techniques that put your bait exactly where bass are hiding—in thick cover, under docks, and next to laydowns. These methods require baitcasting reels with strong drag systems, fast gear ratios, and tight casting control. This guide highlights the best flipping and pitching reels available at FishUSA, perfect for both seasoned anglers and those new to short-range casting.

Table of Contents

  • Best Flipping and Pitching Reels for Bass Fishing
  • What to Look for in a Flipping and Pitching Reel
  • Still Not Sure Which Reel to Choose?

Best Flipping and Pitching Reels for Bass Fishing

Lew's Super-Duty LFS Low-Profile Casting Reel with Flipping Switch

The Lew's Super-Duty LFS Low-Profile Casting Reel with Flipping Switch is engineered for close-quarters power fishing. The flipping switch allows quick, one-handed casts for fast, repetitive presentations. With a one-piece aluminum frame and strong brass gearing, it's built to handle heavy jigs and thick vegetation.

Best For: Heavy cover flipping and punching with jigs or Texas rigs.

Buy Lew's Super-Duty LFS Low-Profile Casting Reel with Flipping Switch

Daiwa Tatula Elite P/F Low-Profile Casting Reel

The Daiwa Tatula Elite P/F is designed in collaboration with bass pro Ish Monroe. It features a reinforced clutch, tuned flipping mode, and T-Wing System for smooth line flow. This reel is ideal for anglers who demand precision when presenting baits close to targets.

Best For: Tournament-level flipping and pitching where precision matters.

Buy Daiwa Tatula Elite P/F Low-Profile Casting Reel

Shimano Bantam Low-Profile Casting Reel

The Shimano Bantam offers a solid CoreSolid body that eliminates flex under load. With Shimano's SVS Infinity braking system, anglers get consistent, backlash-free control. Its low-profile build allows for all-day comfort when making hundreds of pitches into tight cover.

Best For: Punching and pitching into grass, wood, and shallow ambush spots.

Buy Shimano Bantam Low-Profile Casting Reel

Daiwa Fuego Low Profile Casting Reel

The Daiwa Fuego is an affordable reel with serious features. Its 7.3:1 gear ratio and Magforce-Z cast control system offer fast line pickup and solid brake control. A great choice for beginners looking to learn flipping and pitching without sacrificing performance.

Best For: Budget-conscious anglers who want smooth performance in close combat.

Buy Daiwa Fuego Low Profile Casting Reel

Abu Garcia Revo AL-F Low-Profile Casting Reel

The Abu Garcia Revo AL-F is lightweight, strong, and smooth. With a C6 carbon side plate and IVCB-6 braking system, it delivers a clean, controlled cast every time. Perfect for fast pitching presentations and pulling fish from dense cover.

Best For: Lightweight flipping and pitching with finesse-style baits or compact jigs.

Buy Abu Garcia Revo AL-F Low-Profile Casting Reel

What to Look for in a Flipping and Pitching Reel

  • High Gear Ratio: Look for reels with at least 7.1:1 for quick hooksets and line recovery. Learn how to select the best gear ratio for casting reels.
  • Strong Drag System: A smooth, powerful drag is key for controlling big bass in heavy cover.
  • Ergonomic Frame: Compact, rigid reels reduce fatigue and improve leverage on hooksets.
  • Advanced Braking: Magnetic or centrifugal brakes allow short, controlled casts with minimal backlash.
  • Flipping Switch (Optional): Adds speed and efficiency to one-handed presentations.

Still Not Sure Which Reel to Choose?

If you’re new to flipping and pitching, the Daiwa Fuego offers excellent value and reliable performance. For serious bass anglers, the Lew's Super-Duty LFS and Tatula Elite P/F provide tournament-level control and strength. The Shimano Bantam offers top-tier performance in a low-profile, powerful package built for close-quarters combat. Choose based on your cover, target species, and personal feel preferences.

Shop Bass Fishing Tackle & Gear

  • Bass Fishing Reels
  • Bass Casting Rods
  • Bass Spinning Rods
  • Bass Soft Baits
  • Bass Hard Baits
  • Bass Jigs