Baitcast reels....Round or Low-profile?

[timdmd]

can anyone explain the difference between the two? Or is the difference simply based on looks/preference in handling? Are both types appropriate for bassin techniques?

[mac (Doyle McEwen)]

Yes, both types work very well for bass fishing applications..Generally speaking, the round reels are heavier and more bulky..Not saying you can't find lighter ones, just talking generalities..If you palm the reels as most fishermen do, you will find the low profile reels to be more comfortable and easier to hold..If your hands are really large you might like the feel of the round reels better..Normally the round reels have a larger line capacity, and due to that may fit better on some techniques..Over all it is just what you prefer, nothing more, nothing less..

mac

[Riplip]

I own each type and like them all...Yes, they are appropriate for all types of bass fishing techniques.

You should borrow or at least cast with each type to get a feel for your preference. Your hand size may determine how well the reel works for any given technique...for example, I like a low profile reel for rippin or spooks because I can comfortably hold the reel while I manipulate the wrist action for these techniques. I like round reels for jigs and worms...just feels right to me.

I know Ol'e Coochy likes round reels alot...but his hands look like baseball gloves!

[Phil]

I use round Garcia's for all swimbait fishing and jig fishing, Diawa Procasters for ripbait and worm fishing and Shimano's for my crankbaits and spinnerbaits, Why, it just works for me. I also am currently trying out the new Bass Pro Bionic Plus at $ 49.95 and 6 bearings, graphite frame, aluminum spool, magnetic brake and 6.3:1 ratio, its hard to beat the price !

[g-man]

I prefer the low profile reels for bass fishing, except for my swim bait rod. I like the round reels like calcuttas for salmon fishing, steel head etc. Bigger reels for bigger fish, low profile for Bass. Just my opinion.

[Blue_R70]

I like the round reels like calcuttas for salmon fishing, steel head etc. Bigger reels for bigger fish, low profile for Bass. Just my opinion.

Have you noticed the current generation of low profile reels with the massive gears (see how low their gearboxes hang down)? These new low profiles have even larger gears than their comparable Calcutta/Ambassadeur counterparts--you can have both power *and* ergonomics now...

[SloppySeconds]

This is very true. I was recently dissecting my Daiwa Millionaire's and my Daiwa Advantage 153HST. As you know, the Millionaire's are machined bar stock round reels while the other is the "new" low profile design. Other than the housing, the reels are virtually identical inside when it comes to gearing and drag washers. They just saved some space by increasing the overlap in the gears. In my case, it looks like the frame of the round reels were much tougher and could probably take a heavier beating under high drag pressure. The low-profile is an aluminum alloy cast reel, which is very light - but I get the feeling that it loses some durability and rigid strength.

Some companies are offering machined low-profile reels that look like a good compromise. I know those Revo's even claim to put out 24 pounds of drag... which seems impossible for a bass reel.

I tend to like the round reels for swimbaits and steelheading, while the low-profile's are nice for lighter duty stuff. However, the newer low-profile reels are probably just as capable - like the new Curado's and such.