10 Best Baitrunner Reels 2025 in the United States

The PENN Spinfisher VII 4500 is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable baitrunner reel, especially if you fish in saltwater environments. It has a medium-large size (4500), making it versatile for a range of fish like bass and other species. The gear ratio of 6.2:1 strikes a good balance between retrieving line quickly and maintaining control during fights. Weighing around 1.2 pounds, it feels sturdy but not overly heavy, which helps during longer fishing sessions.

One of its standout features is the HT-100 carbon fiber drag system that offers up to 20 pounds of max drag. This means it can handle bigger fish without wearing you out. The live liner drag system is designed to let the fish take line smoothly without triggering the reel immediately, which is very helpful when trolling or letting bait move naturally. The reel comes with 6 stainless steel bearings, including an anti-reverse bearing for smooth operation and better hook sets. This setup ensures quiet, fluid reel action that anglers appreciate. It also has an IPX5 sealed aluminum spool and body parts, offering good protection against saltwater corrosion—important if you fish in harsh conditions.

Line capacity is generous, able to hold a good amount of monofilament or braided line (e.g., 425 yards of 8 lb mono), suitable for both nearshore and offshore fishing. The reel is ambidextrous, so right or left-handed users can adjust the handle easily. While the reel is durable and well-sealed, it may be a bit heavy for those wanting an ultra-light setup. Also, the 6.2:1 gear ratio is on the faster side, which might not be ideal if you prefer slower retrieves for certain bait presentations. These points are minor considerations for anglers seeking a tough, versatile reel that performs well in saltwater with smooth drag and reliable line control.

The Shimano Baitrunner 12000D is a solid choice for anglers targeting larger fish in offshore saltwater environments. Its most notable feature is the secondary drag system, which facilitates free spooling with the bail closed — ideal for live bait fishing. This function makes the bait appear more natural to fish, increasing the likelihood of a catch. The reel's gear ratio of 4.4:1 offers smooth and steady retrieves, although it might feel slow if you're used to higher-speed reels. With a maximum drag of 20 pounds, it provides adequate power to handle heavy fish, which is a key advantage in saltwater fishing.

In terms of line capacity, it can hold a significant amount of both monofilament and braided lines, making it versatile for different fishing techniques. The inclusion of six bearings (3 ball bearings and 3 roller bearings) ensures a smooth performance, though some might expect more bearings at this price point for enhanced smoothness. Weighing in at 30 ounces, it's on the heavier side, which might feel cumbersome during extended fishing trips. However, the design incorporates larger, more comfortable grips that help offset this by enhancing comfort.

The Dyna-Balance technology is a standout feature, eliminating wobble during retrieval which supports a stable and sensitive fishing experience. Yet, the reel's weight might be a drawback for those who prefer lightweight gear. Additionally, while its line retrieval rate of 37 inches per crank is decent, the reel's performance might not suit everyone's speed preferences. Ideal for bass and trout fishing, this reel is particularly beneficial for those who appreciate the baitrunner feature and are willing to accommodate its slightly hefty build for the advantages it offers.

The PENN Spinfisher VI Live Liner is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable inshore fishing reel. Its IPX5 sealed aluminum construction offers excellent resistance against corrosion, making it suitable for saltwater fishing. With a gear ratio of 6.2:1, it recovers line quickly at a rate of 40 inches per crank, ensuring efficiency during your fishing trips. The 6 stainless steel ball bearings, including an anti-reverse bearing, provide smooth operation, which is crucial when battling fish.

One of its standout features is the HT-100 front drag system, equipped with carbon fiber washers, allowing for a maximum drag of 20 pounds. This ensures that you can handle larger catches without excessive strain. The superline spool makes it easy to attach braided line, which is a plus for those who prefer it over monofilament. The reel’s size (4500) offers good line capacity, accommodating various line types and weights.

Although the reel is well-built, it does weigh in at 1.96 pounds, which some users may find a bit heavy for extended use. The design favors ambidextrous handling, but the right-left handle position might not be ideal for everyone, depending on personal preference. Additionally, while the reel’s features cater well to inshore fishing, dedicated offshore anglers might require a more specialized option.