round vs. low-profile reels

If you are new to baitcasters, you would probably be better off getting a reel with magnetic cast control. Most of the low profile type reels have it but the round type reels usually have centrifugal controls which may be harder for a beginner to use. It's really a matter of what feels good in your hand. Most of the reels in the $60.00 and up range are pretty good reels. The lower priced ones may not give you the performance and durability you need.

Mark

There's not much differance in the performance of the reel. Sometime the quality of the reels may differ, but most of all, it's just which one feels better in your hand.

I agree. The low-profile reels are generally more comfortable to palm.

There are models of round reels that are bigger and hold more and heavier line. However, this is not universally true. Some of the newer models of round reels, made specifically for bass fishing, actually hold *less* line than some low-profile reels. Check out the Calcutta 50/100/150 and the ABU-Garcia 1600 and 3600 size reels, for example.

Wrong. There are *no* round reels currently being made with magnetic braking systems. Low profile reels do come with both types of brakes, but the vast majority of them, especially the lower priced models, have magnetic brakes.

Not because they 'offer more performance' (whatever that means), but because it is easier to adjust the amount of braking for different lures and wind conditions, I agree that a reel with magnetic brakes is more versitile.

Good Luck and Good Fishing!

Keep in mind that the Round Metal baitcasters are like holding ice cubes in your hands when and if you fish weather cooler than 50 degrees. I found this out the hard way and I can't use mine (Calcutta) over the winter. Personally, I prefer spinning reels for light plastic baits. After throwing everything else on baitcasters, my wrist needs the break. Hope this helps. Andy