Best Baitcasting Reel For Flipping
Our #1 Choice
Best Flipping And Pitching Reel
Recreational and commercial anglers use flipping to make precise and short-distance casts, especially in bank areas with thick overgrowth. With this technique, anglers hold the line in their non-dominant hand and extend the line an arm’s length. Then, they can swing and throw the bait with more accuracy.
To simplify your search for flipping gear, this review outlines the best flipping reels on the market today.
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Best Flipping Reels Comparison Table
Preview | Product | Reel Weight | Gear Ratio | Ball Bearings | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Daiwa Tatula Elite Pitching/Flipping | 0.43 lbs | 7.1:1 | 7BB + 1RB | ||
Ardent Apex | 0.4 lbs | 7.3:1 | 10BB + 1RB | ||
Daiwa Tatula CT 100XS | 0.5 lbs | 8.1:1 | 7BB+1RB | ||
Lew’s Fishing SDG1H | 0.5 lbs | 6.8:1 | 10BB + 1RB | ||
Quantum Accurist 101 | 0.64 lbs | 6.3:1 | 7 Quantum PT bearings |
Benefits Of Flipping (And Pitching
Flipping reels are designed to give anglers more control over the line. With the line extended an arm’s length, anglers release the lure and create a pendulum effect. This allows you to place the lure exactly where you want.
Flipping and pitching techniques work great for targeting fish in close proximity with more accuracy. You can use both techniques to make a quiet presentation in hard-to-reach areas, but there are key differences between them.
Pitching typically requires a shorter rod and a highly flexible rod tip. It’s far more common to free-spool the reel when pitching than when flipping because the main focus with flipping is target accuracy and line control.
The best flipping reel will be versatile with a lightweight but durable feel. While the flipping technique can be difficult for beginners to master right away, anglers with more experience should pick it up sooner.
Buying Guide: What Makes A Good Flipping Reel?
Type of Fish & Environment
Whether inland or on a boat, anglers use the flipping technique for bank fishing in murky waters with dense overgrowth. Anglers can venture out into freshwater and saltwater environments to target bass or other big fish species closer to shore.
Reel Features
Drag & Brake System
An effective brake system uses front or rear drag to reduce line tangles and give anglers full control of the line. Most flipping reel models will automatically engage the drag without needing you to manually flip the reel handle. This allows you to act quickly when a fish takes the bait.
Ball Bearings
Ball bearings impact the smoothness of the drag process by reducing friction. More bearings create a smoother angling experience, but this isn’t always the case. It’s important that flipping reels have durable stainless steel, shielded, or double-shielded ball bearings.
Spool Size & Line Guides
The spool size for flipping reels will vary depending on the reel's size and the amount of line you need. You might come across a reel with a skirted or internal spool. Internal spools are the traditional option, with the spool located inside a rotating cup, whereas the skirted alternative has a spool that extends over the reel.
Price & Warranty
Prices and warranty plans will be different depending on the brand. Good-quality reels typically come at high price points, but there are affordable options too. To get the most value for your money, make sure that the reel is outfitted with the features you want.
5 Best Flipping Reels Reviewed
1. Daiwa Tatula Elite Pitching/Flipping
Best Flipping Reel
Reel Weight | 0.43 lbs |
Gear Ratio | 7.1:1 |
Line Capacity | 14/100, 16/90 |
Ball Bearings | 7BB + 1RB |
Key Feature | Re-engineered Magforce braking system |
While there are various good-quality options on the market, the Daiwa Tatula Elite Pitching/Flipping model is the best flipping reel available today.
Daiwa is a well-trusted brand with a reputation for producing innovative gear. This low-profile baitcaster reel has been specifically designed for flipping and pitching. In whatever fishing environment you find yourself in, the reel allows for an inconspicuous and quiet presentation.
The aluminum material in the frame and side plates makes this reel durable and long-lasting. A re-engineered Magforce braking and spool tension system gives you full control over the line at all times.
Not only does this model have a sleek design, but it is also ergonomically designed with a 100mm swept handle and EVA handle knobs. Whether you spend a couple hours or an entire day out on the water, you don’t have to worry about fatiguing your hands and joints.
This particular model has a 7.1:1 gear ratio, which allows for a fast retrieval rate. Especially when flipping in waters with tall grasses, anglers need to act fast when a fish pulls on the line. A high gear ratio makes it possible to respond quickly with enough force to handle bigger target fish.
Pros
Cons
2. Ardent Apex
Best Baitcasting Reel For Flipping
Reel Weight | 0.4 lbs |
Gear Ratio | 7.3:1 |
Line Capacity | 40 lbs/75 yards |
Ball Bearings | 10BB + 1RB |
Key Feature | Strike Saver drag system |
The best baitcasting reel for flipping purposes is the Ardent Apex.
This particular model is set for right-hand orientation and constructed with durable aluminum material. A designer by the name of Denny Brauer planned out the reel’s construction with the intent of creating a reel specifically for flipping.
From the lightweight build to the narrow arbor spool and fixed line guide, this reel is optimal for creating short-distance, accurate casts. The carbon fiber swept back handle and comfort EVA grip knobs contribute to a lightweight, ergonomic angler experience. As a result, there’s less risk of hand, shoulder, and arm fatigue.
The helical aircraft aluminum gear and forged swept-back star drag create a smooth drag experience when retrieving your catch. At the same time, the high gear ratio of 7.3:1 results in a quick retrieval rate. A reel's gear ratio plays a pivotal role in the overall performance, which is why this reel is a dependable option.
The ball bearing system reduces friction and improves the efficiency of the retrieval process. This reel also has a line capacity of 40 pounds/75 yards and enough strength to handle heavier target fish that put up more of a fight.
Pros
Cons
3. Daiwa Tatula CT 100XS
Best Flipping And Pitching Reel
Reel Weight | 0.5 lbs |
Gear Ratio | 8.1:1 |
Line Capacity | 14/120, 16/100 |
Ball Bearings | 7BB+1RB |
Key Feature | Magforce Z™ |
The best option for both flipping and pitching techniques is the Daiwa Tatula CT 100XS.
This Daiwa reel is constructed with a lightweight aluminum frame and side plates. Depending on your preferred hand orientation, it’s important to note that this particular model is positioned for right-hand orientation.
The Ultimate Tournament carbon drag system allows for a maximum drag of 13.2 pounds. The ball bearings effectively reduce friction while the T-Wing system creates a narrow pathway for the line to pass through smoothly when casting.
The Magforce Z™ feature is a magnetic braking system that gives anglers full cast control when angling. With features like the reel’s corrosion resistant clutch mechanism, anglers can trust that the Tatula CT 100XS will perform well for years in different fishing environments and conditions.
Not only is this model great for flipping, it’s a dependable baitcasting option for other specialized techniques. Though it can perform well in terms of short-distance and precision, anglers also have the ability to make longer casts with minimal backlash.
The custom soft-touch handle knob and cut-away 90mm wept handle are notable features in the reel’s design. Not to mention, this model is a top contender when it comes to high gear ratios.
One eBay shopper says,
“These reels are fantastic for the money. I ended up buying 3 more after fishing with it.”
Pros
Cons
4. Lew’s Fishing SDG1H
Best Lew’s Reel For Flipping
Reel Weight | 0.5 lbs |
Gear Ratio | 6.8:1 |
Line Capacity | 12 lbs/150 yds |
Ball Bearings | 10BB + 1RB |
Key Feature | Combat Grip features |
From Lew’s SuperDuty G Speed Spool LFS Series, the SDG1H model is the brand’s best reel for flipping.
Constructed with a one-piece aluminum frame and handle side plate, this reel is designed for endurance. The double anodized aluminum spool allows for tension adjustment with an audible click.
The externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS) gives anglers a smooth casting experience in freshwater and saltwater environments alike. At a moment’s notice, you can engage this system and exercise full control over the line.
This model is outfitted with a double anodized aluminum star drag that works to an angler’s benefit when on the water. The carbon fiber drag system allows for a maximum drag capacity of 20 pounds.
Whether targeting bass or other heavy-duty fish, anglers can handle resistance on the line and reel in their catch quickly with the 6.8:1 gear ratio. A titanium-coated Zirconia line guide contributes to the reel’s smooth performance.
When it comes to the quality of comfort, this reel includes Lew's Combat Grip on both the handle knobs and thumb bar. In addition, there is an easily removable palming graphite side plate that has a SoftTouch armor finish.
For anglers considering this model, there is also a one-year limited warranty plan.
“I bought the flipping switch model and absolutely love it. It is perfect for punching and flipping. Would reccomend this reel to anyone.”
– 5 Star review on BassPro.com
Pros
Cons
5. Quantum Accurist 101
Best Flipping Reel Under $100
Reel Weight | 0.64 lbs |
Gear Ratio | 6.3:1 |
Line Capacity | 12 lbs/150 yds |
Ball Bearings | 7 Quantum PT bearings |
Key Feature | Centri-Mag Cast Control |
For anglers looking for an affordable and high-quality flipping reel, the Quantum Accurist 101 is the best suited for the task.
The reel’s build consists of an aluminum body and gear-side cover as well as a brass main gear. What’s impressive about this model is that the material is comparable with high-end reels found at more expensive price points.
One of the standout features of this baitcasting flipping reel is the Flippin’ Switch feature.
With the Flippin’ Switch, anglers can engage the reel to have a free spool for pitching and flipping techniques. When it’s time to switch into retrieval mode, simply release the thumb button to re-engage the spool.
The CentriMag Cast Control gives you the ability to control line output and reduce backlash because of spool overruns. There is a spool click tension knob integrated into the build of the reel for even more control. Additionally, there is a continuous anti-reverse feature and PT ceramic drag system.
Due to this reel’s popular demand on the market, availability is limited. However, anglers who get their hands on this reel are all-the-better for it when using the flipping technique on their fishing trips.
If you want to try your hand at flipping but have been deterred by expensive models, this is an excellent reel to invest in.
Pros
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Tips For Setting Up And Using A Flipping Reel
Having the right rod and reel for flipping is the critical first step for every angler. We recommend investing in a long heavy or extra heavy rod and a high speed reel.
Though the flipping technique can take time to master, beginners will see positive results with a better understanding of the process and some field practice.
When spooling your reel, you won’t spool as much line because making a long-distance cast isn’t your intention. The right line is crucial and, particularly, a strong braided line won’t break when angling in heavy vegetation and overgrowth.
To make a cast using a flipping reel, you’ll hold the line at arm’s length and swing the lure back and forth before releasing it into the water.
People also Ask (FAQs)
Are there any special maintenance steps for flipping reels?
Reel care for flipping reels is essentially the same as it would be for any reel. It’s important to disassemble and clean your flipping reel between uses with warm water and a cleaning solution. To maintain your reel’s quality, store it in a dry space when not in use.
What are the best brands of flipping reels?
The best brands for flipping reels are Lew’s, Daiwa, and Ardent.
What is the best line for flipping?
The best line for flipping is a braided line because it is durable enough for retrieving heavier target fish from hard-to-reach areas.
How do you practice flipping and pitching?
If possible, practice with another angler who has experience with flipping and pitching. Even if this isn’t possible, it can be helpful to practice the casting form before setting out on the water.
Where is the best place to buy flipping reels online?
Amazon is truly a one-stop shop for finding the best flipping reels and gear. You can compare reel features, read reviews, and conveniently ship your purchased item right to you.
Conclusion
As an angler, you make gear selections based on different fishing styles and approaches. While not every reel is well-suited for flipping, there are a select few highly dependable options on the market today. The Daiwa Tatula Elite Pitching/Flipping is a reel that delivers a powerful performance regardless of the fishing environment.