Brand Comparison

KastKing Reels Reviewed

by Andrew

Brand Comparison

KastKing Reels Reviewed

by Andrew

by Andrew

It’s just not fishing without a quality reel that can bring fish in. KastKing is one of the most well-respected brands for anglers who want to get high-quality gear without spending a fortune.

We’ve prepared this guide for anglers who need a dependable and effective KastKing reel.

Preview

Product

Weight

Gear Ratio

Max Drag

Check Price

KastKing Megatron Spinning Reel, Freshwater...

KastKing Megatron 2000

8.8 oz.

5:1

33 lbs

KastKing Spartacus Baitcasting Fishing...

KastKing Spartacus F

7.4 oz.

6.3:1

17.64 lbs.

KastKing Centron Lite Spinning Reel, Size 500...

KastKing Summer 500

7.3 oz.

5.2:1

11 lbs.

KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel, Right...

KastKing Rover Round 50

11.96 oz.

5.3:1

18 lbs.

KastKing Sharky III Spinning Fishing...

KastKing Sharky III

10.5 oz.

5.2:1

39.5 lbs.

KastKing Brutus Spincast Fishing...

KastKing Brutus

9.88 oz.

4.0:1

11 lbs.

KastKing Royale Legend Baitcasting...

KastKing Royale Legend

7.2 oz.

6.6:1

17.65

KastKing Valiant Eagle II Spinning Reel -...

KastKing Valiant Eagle II 1000

8.3 oz.

6.2:1

17.6 lbs.


Unique Features of KastKing Reels

Centrifugal and Magnetic Brake System

KastKing reels have great casting control thanks to their dual brake system. Many of their models have both working in tandem to make sure anglers can send out exactly how much line they like and land it right where they want it. These systems are generally easy to adjust with a simple dial on the side of the reel.

Functionality and Quality

Many anglers are pleasantly surprised the first time they use KastKing reels. Through design ingenuity, the company has managed to add features to their products that you don’t generally see for anything less than double the price. For example, their reels very rarely depend on cheap plastic parts in the spool and handle, and many even use corrosion-resistant materials like graphite, which is great news for surf anglers.

Quality Ball Bearings

They might not be the end-all-be-all of fishing reel performance, but the right kind of ball bearings will significantly improve the smoothness of the overall operation of the handle and the interior gears of a fishing reel. KastKing also shields the ball bearings in many of their more high-end fishing reels, which helps keep out corrosive elements and debris that can gum up the works. The ball bearings used in KastKing reels also make their operation very quiet.

Great for Beginners

Anglers of all experience levels can find a KastKing that works for them. Their general affordability makes breaking into sport fishing much easier, and they even have spincasting reels for junior anglers who need to learn the ropes. KastKing spinning reels are ideal for anglers who want to begin fishing without worrying about backlash, and the baitcasting reels are a perfect way to level up once you’re familiar with things.

Versatility

Because they have so many models that are so easy to use, KastKing reels are also great for use just about anywhere. Saltwater anglers should always have a KastKing on hand. They generally have plenty of drag power and can hold enough line for various saltwater fishing styles, including bottom fishing, trolling, and fishing from a dock.

Heavy-Duty Performance & Durability

The best fishing reel is worthless if it breaks down too quickly. KastKing reels are not only built of durable metal materials but also easy to repair so that if there is some kind of problem, they won't immediately turn into a paperweight. These reels are great for beginners and saltwater fishing because they can handle the occasional drop without denting or breaking.

Affordability

We’d be remiss not to highlight one of the best aspects of KastKing reels, which is that they're incredibly affordable across the board. Many anglers begin shopping for a reel with more expensive brands and then realize they can get the same features and performance out of a KastKing.


8 Best KastKing Fishing Reels Reviewed

1. KastKing Megatron 2000

Our Top Pick

Reel Size

2000

Weight

8.8 oz.

Gear Ratio

5:1

Line Capacity

420/6, 310/8

Max Drag

33 lbs

Ball Bearings

7 + 1

Sharp design and high functionality make this model one of the best KastKing spinning reels on the market. It can haul in fish like a tornado with its impressive 33 pounds of drag power, and the combination of aluminum and graphite in the reel body makes it lightweight and strong as a tank. The aluminum skeletal frame also keeps rust out of the reel, making it a great KastKing surf reel. It operates smoothly and, for its size, pulls in a fair amount of line (21.3 inches) per turn.

Strong metal gears ensure that this reel operates smoothly, and the handle is made of sturdy aluminum that will give you great leverage over whatever species you’re trying to catch. Specifically, the KastKing Megatron reel is perfect for panfish, bass, and walleye in freshwater and bigger species like wahoo and mackerel in saltwater. As long as you have the right line on the spool, you can battle monsters and pull them right out of the surf.

As one review says, the KastKing Megatron is

“silky smooth with a powerful drag.”

It's also an excellent reel for finesse fishing. The drag power in this reel won't be needed in such scenarios, but you can even trick savvier fish with more lifelike presentations. Although it’s a robust spinning reel, KastKing has kept it simple so that newcomers and pros alike can fish with the Megatron.


2. KastKing Spartacus F

Our Top Pick

Reel Size

100

Weight

7.4 oz.

Gear Ratio

6.3:1

Line Capacity

125/10, 100/12, 85/15, 65/18

Max Drag

17.64 lbs.

Ball Bearings

11 + 1

Despite its small size, the Spartacus is a bass fishing behemoth capable of landing a personal best or handling mid-sized bass with an attitude problem. It can hold enough line even if the capacity isn't out of this world. The gear ratio is fast but, even more importantly, it has a very quick 28.3 inch per turn retrieval rate, which means you can pull spoons and swimmers up from the depths or across the water column quickly.

That small size doesn't give up any strength, and it also makes this one of the most convenient palmable baitcasting reels for last-minute trips.

Reviewer and avid fisher Cameron says,

“I’ve been fishing for 10 years with spinning and casting reels, and if you are looking for a moderately priced bait casting reel don't waste your time by searching any farther.”

It can fit inside a glove compartment or in the trunk with your favorite rod, making the Spartacus F as effective a KastKing musky reel as it is a bass reel. Younger anglers who are ready to move up to a baitcaster will also love this reel's slim profile.

For such an inexpensive baitcasting reel, there are tons of ball bearings in the Spartacus. In addition to the fluid movement that gives this reel, there’s also an anti-reverse bearing that will stop the handle in its tracks. When there’s a fish on, that anti-reverse feature works with the dual centrifugal and magnetic brakes to keep the target from going on a run and turn it back toward the boat. That braking system also gives this reel some fantastic casting.


3. KastKing Summer 500

Best KastKing Ice Fishing Reel

Reel Size

500

Weight

7.3 oz.

Gear Ratio

5.2:1

Line Capacity

240/4, 155/6

Max Drag

11 lbs.

Ball Bearings

9 + 1

The name might put you in mind of fishing on a sunny day, but the Summer is also a phenomenal KastKing reel for fishing on frozen lakes and rivers.

KastKing says it’s lightweight, ultra smooth, and powerful.

That ultralight weight lends itself to the generally smaller scale of ice fishing gear, and its graphite frame can handle icy conditions quite ably. Take the reel apart, and you'll find bearing housing and gears that shine with machined precision. The spool is made out of machined aluminum, which will keep it from wearing down for longer, and it can hold enough line for ice fishing despite the low-profile design.

Pair this KastKing spinning reel with the right ice fishing rod and fish finder, and you'll be pulling crappie, sunfish, and bluegill up through the ice in no time. The 19.7 IPT retrieval rate is excellent for vertical jigging in a hole or casting and slow-rolling spinnerbaits in cold water from a bank or boat. It's a sturdy reel that casts like a dream. The only slight issue is that the bail wire is a bit thick, and the bail itself is a bit harder to close than you might expect, but snapping the bail down becomes easier once you get used to it.

On the KastKing website, Kim B. states,

“Great action on this reel, smooth and reliable in all conditions.”


4. KastKing Rover Round 50

Best KastKing Conventional Reel

Reel Size

50

Weight

11.96 oz.

Gear Ratio

5.3:1

Line Capacity

200/16

Max Drag

18 lbs.

Ball Bearings

6 + 1

If you came to this guide looking for a KastKing musky reel, look no further. This one is built of stainless steel that won't succumb to corrosion from salt water, and it handles line well enough to cast and give a realistic presentation to classic musky lures like bucktails. Like other round reels, the KastKing Rover conventional reel round baitcasting reel has better line control and casting than either spinning reels or baitcasters. It can also hold a great deal of line.

Anglers who like to sneak up on their targets, especially using flipping techniques, will love this reel. You can drop the lure in nice and slow or, with enough practice, land it like a feather a fair distance away. The handle is long enough for leverage and the grips comfortable enough to grip so that you can have better control over all aspects of a catch from cast to dehooking.

Beyond being what is called KastKing’s No. 1 highest-rated conventional reel, the Rover Round 50 just looks great.

The red side plates are eye-catching, and the gold and silver interior help the reel look clean even after plenty of use. The more open round reel design is also much easier to rinse off the reel after each trip.


5. KastKing Sharky III

Best KastKing Saltwater Reel

Reel Size

5000

Weight

10.5 oz.

Gear Ratio

5.2:1

Line Capacity

220/12, 190/14, 160/16

Max Drag

39.5 lbs.

Ball Bearings

10 + 1

With a classy black graphite body that will withstand the corrosive elements of saltwater environments and practically enough drag power to drag your boat back to shore, the Sharky III is the best saltwater fishing reel KastKing has ever produced. This one is pretty lightweight for a reel that can pull tuna and snapper out of the ocean. It's heavy enough to balance on a long saltwater fishing rod, but it's light enough to prevent hand and wrist fatigue and be transported easily from the car.

You might not be able to tell when the waves are rolling and causing a commotion on the deck, but the Sharky III is a really quiet reel, with satisfied users writing it’s smooth as silk, quiet, and has a great feel. Both casting and retrieving are nearly silent. For that matter, it has a 33.4 IPT retrieval rate that will help you cast more and catch more fish.

KastKing has also added a water- and dirt-resistant seal around the body to keep the reel's inner workings clean and functioning. If you like kayak fishing, the extra distance this reel can cast will help you hit more of the water in less time. As long as you keep it rinsed clean and add some lubricant now and then, this reel should last a long time.

User Joana gives this product 5 stars and says

“So far this reel has been fantastic. It has really smooth movement and feels like a very high quality product. I would definitely recommend purchasing!”


6. KastKing Brutus

Best KastKing Spincast Reel

Reel Size

Medium

Weight

9.88 oz.

Gear Ratio

4.0:1

Line Capacity

160/10, 130/12

Max Drag

11 lbs.

Ball Bearings

5

Spincast reels have been the best for getting out on the water with minimal preparation, and the KastKing Brutus spincast reel is an exceptional example of that quick convenience. It comes pre-spooled with mono line that can handle all sorts of fishing for mid-sized targets. The Brutus also holds a bit more line than most other spincast reels, so you can go after fish that might spook and go on a run. Beginners also love the spincast because it’s so easy to use and doesn’t involve a lot of fuss.

If you’re the kind of angler who likes to operate on your reels, the spincast might be a bit cumbersome because it’s a closed-face reel. But KastKing says this reel is built for smooth performance with 5 MaxiDur ball bearings, and you can tell with this reel's action. Once you remove the plates, everything looks basically the same, but that’s not something you want to do out on the water. If you do want to swap out the factory line with some stronger test, it’s a better bet to do it before your next fishing trip.

Performance-wise, you’d have to be pretty lucky to catch a monster-sized fish with this reel. That being said, it can certainly handle any mid-sized bass, musky, pike, and similar common freshwater targets. It's sensitive enough to give your lures a fair presentation but don’t expect to cast out a mile like you can with the KastKing spinning reels and baitcasters in this guide.

“Great build quality and smooth as butter... ordering more now.”

- Verified buyer on the KastKing website


7. KastKing Royale Legend

Best KastKing Baitcasting Reel

Reel Size

Medium

Weight

7.2 oz.

Gear Ratio

6.6:1

Line Capacity

130/12

Max Drag

17.65

Ball Bearings

11 + 1

The KastKing Royale Legend baitcasting fishing reel is a palm-friendly and effective machine that far outperforms competitors in the same price range. The castability, precision, and strength of this reel could easily cost three times the price, but in keeping with their mission statement, KastKing has made it affordable. With a retrieval rate of just under 28 IPT, you can sail your spoons and swimmers out and get them back quickly. With the right thumb action, you can pop crankbaits off rocks and other structures.

Whatever species you’re chasing, you can be sure the Royale Legend will be able to get it into the boat.

With almost 18 pounds of drag power in a dual system that one review said,

 "make the reel easy to use right out of the gate,"

just about any mid-to-large-sized fish can be got.

The handle is grippable, and the reel is lightweight enough that you won't suffer any hand or wrist fatigue even after a long day of fishing.

One drawback is that the dial that controls the magnet braking system is difficult to adjust quickly. It's not a big enough problem to cost you a fish, but it can be a bit tiresome. That being said, once you get the hang of baitcasting with this reel, you shouldn't need to adjust the brakes all that often.


8. KastKing Valiant Eagle II 1000

Best KastKing Spinning Reel

Reel Size

1000

Weight

8.3 oz.

Gear Ratio

6.2:1

Line Capacity

215/4, 170/6, 115/8

Max Drag

17.6 lbs.

Ball Bearings

10 + 1

Everything you need for a great fishing trip is built into the KastKing Valiant Eagle spinning reel. Its standout feature is the one-piece bail. It should stand the test of time longer than similar spinning reels. You can also put braided line - and plenty of it - on the spool directly without having to worry about laying down a mono backing first. It has plenty of power for turning fish and pulling them up onto the boat, and the material it's made from is durable and lightweight.

Cleaning this reel is very simple. It also casts quite well and it has an anti-reverse bearing that will lock your target as soon as they bite. Reeling is smooth and effortless with this spinning reel, and it can also cast a pretty good distance with minimal effort. A small detail KastKing thought to add-in is an audible click when you adjust the drag, which helps you do so quickly without having to look down. 

The Eagle is, without a doubt, one of the best KastKing saltwater reels. It might not seem like it has enough drag power to get saltwater targets like tuna, but with the right line and technique, it can be done. In fact, fishing for big targets with this reel is more fun than using a high-drag tank.

Zack’s review of this reel says,

“This reel is perfect right out of the box. Super light and rotates smoothly. I Would recommend purchasing this reel, it was a great value. Same quality as the $200+ reels and works just as good.”


Pros & Cons of KastKing Fishing Reels

Pros
  • Affordable
  • High-Quality Materials
  • Silent & Smooth
  • Great for Beginners
  • Castable
  • Versatile
  • Well-Designed
Cons
  • General Purpose Reels
  • Few Very High-End Features
  • Rarely Over 20 lb. Drag

About the KastKing Company

KastKing is shockingly young for such an influential company. It was founded in 2011 by some Syracuse University students who loved enjoying nature by fishing on the Finger Lakes in upstate New York, where they’re still headquartered today. Their mission is to provide design and innovation common in high-end reels at an affordable price for everyone. They use great high-quality materials and perform so well they've become a mainstay for anglers of all kinds.


Comparing KastKing Reels to Other Brands

  • KastKing vs. Zebco
    KastKing reels are great for all sorts of different fishing styles, but Zebco spincasting reels take the cake. They have some other varieties, but Zebco invented spincasters and still make some of the best ones today.
  • KastKing vs. Lews
    Lews is an excellent company that makes some dependable reels. KastKing is a bit more innovative when it comes to performance-enhancing design like ball bearings and gear machining.
  • KastKing vs. Piscifun
    Piscifun reels are great for certain applications like saltwater fishing, but they don’t have the cohesive usability and versatility that KastKing reels have.

People also Ask (FAQs)

Where are KastKing reels made? Is KastKing made in the USA?

The majority of KastKing reels are made in the USA, but some of their less expensive models are made in China. Individual components of their reels may also be sourced from China.

Are there any special care and maintenance steps for KastKing fishing reels?

Cleaning and adding lubricant to KastKing reels is much easier than with most other brands. You should take care to do so regularly and dry them off completely before storing off the rod with the line secured.

Do these fishing reels have a lifetime warranty?

KastKing protects its reels with a one-year limited warranty to make sure you get the reel you expect. Although that’s shorter than some other companies, KastKing reels are inexpensive enough to replace quickly if they wear down outside of the warranty period.

How do I contact KastKing for reel warranty repairs?

You can reach out to KastKing with an email to service@kastking.com, or you can contact them with a form on their warranty page.

Where can I buy this brand of fishing reels and other KastKing products?

KastKing reels are sold by certified retailers on Amazon. The best selection of old and new models are available there with the same warranty you’d get if you bought the reel at a brick and mortar shop.


Conclusion

KastKing is all about bringing cutting edge fishing reel technology to more people by making it affordable. None of their reels exemplifies this ideal better than the KastKing Megatron Reel, which is why we’ve selected it as our best KastKing reel.

Top