Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel review and price compare 2025
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Product overview
| Brand | Abu Garcia |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Hand Orientation | Left Hand |
| Color | Red, Black |
| Handle Material | Stainless Steel, Stainless Steel, Stainless Steel, Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 10.2 Ounces |
| Bearing Material | Stainless Steel |
product features
- Lightweight design with one-piece graphite frame and side plates
- 4 stainless steel ball bearings
- Power Disk system
- MagTrax brake system boosts range and accuracy of casts
- Compact bent handle and recessed reel provide an ergonomic grip
product description
The stylish BMAX3 Black Max Low Profile Baitcast reel combines a machined aluminum spool with an ergonomic bent handle to promote comfort during all-day fishing trips. The reel's Power Drag system provides the smooth drag needed to tame hard-pulling fish, while the low-profile design and recessed reel foot offer a relaxed feel. A MagTrax brake system exerts consistent brake pressure to boost the range and accuracy of your cast. Its Duragear brass gear makes this casting reel suitable for hobbyists and seasoned pros, alike.
product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 6.5 x 6.25 x 6.69 inches; 10.2 Ounces
- Item model number : BMAX3-L
- Department : Unisex-Adults
- Date First Available : April 6, 2015
- Manufacturer : Pure Fishing
- ASIN : B011LV0SF8
important information
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Questions about Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel
Q:
When reeling the line in, the guide goes back and forth. When line goes out during casting, the guide doesn't move. Do I have a defective reel?
Answer: The guide on baitcast reels does not move with the line coming off the spool when you cast. The reel is working how it's supposed to as long as it is feeding the line back and forth on the spool when you reel in.
Answer: The guide only moves while reeling in..
Answer: No the reel is fine if it went back and forth it wont cast good, the handle would go around also . it hast to go back and forth on the retrieve or the line just bunches up . good luck
Answer: No. That is the way the reel is designed. The guide moves back and forth during reeling to evenly distribute line across the spool. I usually try to stop reeling with the guide in the center. I don't know if it actually helps the casting, but my best guess is that it would or should.
Answer: No. All low profile reels I've seen work that way
Answer: Mine does the same. I believe it's working correctly.
Q:
what gear ratio is this reel?
Answer: 6:4:1
Q:
whats the difference between the bmax3 and the bmax3-c?
Answer: The "C" is telling you it comes in the plastic package. The other comes in a box
Q:
How much 17lb test line can h put in it
Answer: I put 125 yds of 30lbs test braid on mine and it fit just fine
Q:
What hand figuratiom does BMAX3 come in?
Answer: the "-l" means left hand reel config. the ones without a "-l" are right hand reel.
Answer: I received left handed even though it is advertised as right.!
Answer: This purchase is a left handed reel with smooth action and easy to use. My husband actually picked it out because one of our grandson's requested it. He is 14 and is pleased so far except for some strange reason ... it has failed to catch a fish for him EveryTime. You just may have to be a little patient with this tool. His solution, if schools would just have fishing time instead of P.E., it would work better. :) I hope this helps.
Answer: Right hand!
Answer: Right
Answer: Right
Answer: Both left and right
Q:
I'd like to put a small power handle on it. Is the middle of the handle 7x5 or 8x5 mm?
Answer: I am not sure. However Google
Q:
What is meant by claim packaging? Is this the latest model?
Answer: in clamshell since they are harder to steal. Bigger sporting goods stores like BPS, Cabelas, and online shops order in boxes because they are easier to store large quantities of and they generally don't have problems with them walking out the door.
Q:
Is the bmax3 right hand figuration without the l?
Answer: Correct
Q:
Garrett outdoors was the seller? package lost by usps. garrett refusing refund.
Answer: Make a claim with usps
Q:
¿es para agua salada?
Answer: Saludos!
Q:
What would be better a kastking Spartacus or this one
Answer: Well I own both, I just got my kastking and I have not tried it yet. I got it because of the duel braking system. But I can tell you the black max is really great reel especially if this your first one.
Answer: I have both. I like the black max over the CastKing, I use the CastKing for fish over 15 lbs because of the line capacity only.
Q:
oi, tem na manivela esquerda
Q:
Does this wheel come with the line
Answer: no it does not come with Line
Answer: No
Q:
Hola, quiero comprar con la manija del lado izquierdo, debo poner right hand o left hand? gracias
Answer: seleccionala
Q:
Is the bmax-c righthand? Or left
Answer: It is right handed.
Q:
Is Bmaxc right ir left handes reel?
Answer: You get to pick the side you want. Love it left hand, great action.
Answer: I think you can get them either way.
Answer: No it is not.
Q:
Why does the left hand claim show a right hand reel? Is the picture wrong or the description? I just don't want to order the wrong one.
Answer: Generic picture is all.
Q:
Would this work good with a berkley HD 5.6 foot pole with 8lb spiderwire?
Answer: Excellent match, will be a great combo
Answer: Would be perfect. Real close to my set up.
Answer: It should...
Q:
Does this wheel come with the line
Answer: no it does not come with Line
Answer: No
Q:
Bmax3-l and bmax3-l-c, what difference? both,left handle?
Q:
When it says left does it mean the reeling hang ot throwing hand?
Answer: It means left hand retrieve. I’m right handed and prefer casting with my right hand and reeling with my left, similar to a spinning reel.
Answer: Both, I cast with my right hand and reel with my right. I assume that left handed people do the same.
Q:
Is the bmax3-l-c left handed?
Answer: does the Black Max combo coming right handed
Answer: It should state in product description left/right retrieve. Usually the "L" in the product name is indicative of this as well. The picture shows a right, but description says its a LEFT hnded retrieve. So answer is yes
Answer: I can't say for sure but I believe the "l" is for lefty and the "c" is for clam-wrapped (vacuumed in plastic instead of coming in a box)- no difference there that I can see; nothing extra comes in a box
Answer: I' m right. Its right.
Q:
weight of the reels?
Answer: 7.30 oz or 206.952 g for or metric friends.
Answer: 8-9 ozs
Q:
What does the c mean
Q:
inshore salt water?
Answer: Yes you can use it for inshore saltwater fishing. Just rinse when done and will not rust.
Answer: Great for anything under twenty pounds. Above that, skill level will determine usefulness.
Answer: It'll need a cleaning afterwards...
Answer: YES
Answer: Yes
Q:
Can be used for jigging ?
Answer: Yes. I use jigs for twitching salmon, floating under bobers, Texas rig for bass, and Carolina rigs. Lakes, rivers whatever... It's a good all around reel.
Answer: Light
Q:
price convert to ringgit malaysia
Q:
On the left handed model is the reel on left or right side of it?
Answer: Left
Q:
Hola te hago una consulta. Cuanto pesa el reel y con la caja y la medida de la caja?
Q:
Is this for salt water use as well?
Q:
Which model number is left handed?
Q:
Can I use 6lb or 4lb test on this reel??
Answer: Yes, I believe I have 8lb test on my reel.
Answer: Would this work good with a berkley HD 5.6 foot pole with 8lb spiderwire?
Answer: Yes
Q:
How much 30lb braid will it hold
Answer: I have no idea about braid line. I have mine spooled with about 60 yds of 14lb. Spider Wire monofilament. The spool is approximately 75% full.
Answer: BRAID CAPACITY YD/LB 140/30
Answer: it depends on the diameter size for the braided line.
Q:
Can you remove the cover to adjust the brakes. If so, how?
Answer: No. The brakes adjust automatically from the dial on the side cover,10 the most and 1 the least amount of brakes.
Answer: You don’t need to remove the cover to adjust the brakes it has a dial for that on the opposite side from the handle
Answer: No it's adjustable from the outside. You can romove the cover for easy cleaning and grease /oiling.
Q:
Where is this real manufactured?
Answer: Made in China.
Q:
is this right handed ??
Answer: The picture show right handed
Answer: If it’s marked with a -L, that’s the left handed, otherwise right. The “-c” notes it comes in a clamshell like you would see at Walmart as opposed to a box.
Q:
Dumb question but left handed means I’d actually reel the line in with my left hand correct ?
Answer: That is correct. Right handed means you use your right hand to reel in the line.
Answer: Great question.
Answer: Yes that's correct,
Answer: I do not know, my Grandson is a leftie and this was part of a bday gift...this is the best I can do. Thank you.
Q:
Can you saltwater fishing this and if so up to how many lbs?
Answer: Yes you can fishing salt water, up to 16 lbs.
Answer: Yes, I use 30lb braid and that works just fine for me
Q:
Could I put 15lb line on it?
Answer: I pit 30 lb braid on it
Q:
what type of rod and line to use
Answer: Line: I use 15-lb braid. Monofilament and fluorocarbon don't work as well, because they have "line memory" that causes backlash.
Answer: I use mine for saltwater fishing, 20 lb braid with Med/Heavy 7 foot rod. Cast well and extremely light to hold.
Answer: I run 30 pound braid and a 10ft fluorocarbon leader, connect the 2 with a double uni knot and it will cast through your eyelets no problem.
Q:
Is bmax3l left hand?
Answer: Yes
Q:
I need left hand retreive. So which one do i prder?
Answer: Order a left handed retrieve, I also needed the same.
Q:
Is this bmax3 a right hand or left reel?
Answer: All baitcaster reels come in both right and left handed models. Actually never heard of one that didn't. For more info, spincasting reels have handles that can be placed on either side of the reel depending on right-handed or left-handed use.
Answer: Right Hand
Q:
Is the bmax3 right hand or left?
Answer: This is a right handed reel
Q:
How much 30lb line will this hold
Answer: About 80 yds 30lb mono, 110 braided.
Answer: Holds 110 yards of 12 lb mono so not sure on 30lb
Q:
Im buying already 2 times and getting for right hand,and i need for left hand. I don't know what going on
Answer: Buy for right hand the third time
Q:
I have 12lbs line on and every cast it unspools and knots up really bad. How can i avoid this?
Answer: Adjust the drag. Lighter line needs a tighter drag than say 30#.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Did you use a line winder to put it on?. Have you adjusted the brakes and the side knob to the weight of the lure your using?
Answer: You need to adjust your drag and brake, I would suggest watching a video on YouTube if your just starting out, I have 30lb braid on mine and I haven’t had any problems so far
Answer: Turn up the spool tensioner and brakes
Answer: Adjust your drag
Q:
which model abu garcia is closed face?
Q:
What are the customs to greece??
Q:
Do you send to Brazil?
Answer: No because Brazilians suck
Product reviews of Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Low Profile Baitcast Fishing Reel
Ronald Oakes : Decent reel with a couple very minor negatives.
I like almost everything on this inexpensive reel yet capable reel. You really cant go wrong at all for $40.
However......I didn't like the fact there are NO click-stops on the star drag at all , and NO click-stops on the spool tensioner at all. Both are very minor issues that are really nit picking.
I returned mine because of this as my other casting reel has it and only cost $34 , yet for many it wont be an issue.
I found that I got a little more "Bang-For-The-Buck" with a Piscifun Torrent reel and a slightly better review.
However......I didn't like the fact there are NO click-stops on the star drag at all , and NO click-stops on the spool tensioner at all. Both are very minor issues that are really nit picking.
I returned mine because of this as my other casting reel has it and only cost $34 , yet for many it wont be an issue.
I found that I got a little more "Bang-For-The-Buck" with a Piscifun Torrent reel and a slightly better review.
LILY : HUBBY LOVE IT
HE SPENDS DAYS WITH THIS TOY
Kurtis : I love this reel!
Great reel. Great price. If you're searching for an inexpensive reel or are just learning, I highly recommend the Black max. I liked it so much I bought another.
Daye kondenar : Don’t regret it one bit...
First bait caster ever!!! I put it on a 7’ entsport med/hvy option and its fire... I love it so far!!!
mike : Good enough, and the price is right
This earns five stars because of the quality for the price. Obviously it's not a super high quality reel, but it is an excellent value. I prefer not to have super expensive gear, so I don't feel like I have to baby everything.
This is my first low profile baitcaster. After it arrived, I paired it with a 6' rod and set to work learning how to cast with it. After about 50 casts, I had it figured out. After three short mornings of fishing, it has worn in appreciably so it casts further than when it was out of the box new.
It's not the same "feeling" of quality as my Ambassadeur C3, but it catches fish just fine. I would say that you can make more casts per minute than a spinning rig, but fewer than with a fly rig.
For the price it's a great rig. I'd rather spend my money on good line and good hooks than rods and reels. I feel like you can really go cheap with spinning gear because once the bail is open, there are no moving parts to limit the length of cast. For every other type of reel (except fly) the quality of the reel will affect cast distance. This reel is good enough quality that I don't really think about it when I'm fishing, and it casts really well.
This is my first low profile baitcaster. After it arrived, I paired it with a 6' rod and set to work learning how to cast with it. After about 50 casts, I had it figured out. After three short mornings of fishing, it has worn in appreciably so it casts further than when it was out of the box new.
It's not the same "feeling" of quality as my Ambassadeur C3, but it catches fish just fine. I would say that you can make more casts per minute than a spinning rig, but fewer than with a fly rig.
For the price it's a great rig. I'd rather spend my money on good line and good hooks than rods and reels. I feel like you can really go cheap with spinning gear because once the bail is open, there are no moving parts to limit the length of cast. For every other type of reel (except fly) the quality of the reel will affect cast distance. This reel is good enough quality that I don't really think about it when I'm fishing, and it casts really well.
FnH : Don’t understand.
Don’t see what all the hype about this reel is. It’s nothing special for the price. Works. No better then any other inexpensive name brand reel I have tried.
Jonathan Williams CR : Very Good but it has a real disappointment
the product is excellent, it is of very good quality and the shipping time was as expected, however I made the purchase for the left hand, the product in the description claims to be for the left hand but when I opened the box I was surprised that it is For right hand, and I have received it in Costa Rica, I could not return it without having to assume very high shipping costs. It has been a real disappointment
Cb : Buy a Silver max, you won't regret it.
Reel does its job but not well.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
MICK686 : Worth it for nwebies!
Got one of these to try out, I used it and I'm impressed for the money it feels good and casts a country mile with no birds nests if you know what you're doing. My son used this (first bait caster) and he had it down in 10 minutes of casting, we kept changing the spool tension and magnetic break and he's looking like a pro with this after 30 minutes! Well worth the money!
Didi : Great baitcaster for a beginner and overall.
I haven't fished in 15yrs. Spinning reels have been my go to all my life. Decided to make a change with this baitcaster. Overall a good baitcaster. Great for beginners as well. Definitely recommended.
D. Williams : Great starter reel
My son wanted to buy his own bait cast reel and rod with some birthday money. He read reviews on this reel and decided this was the one that he wanted. So far he has not been disappointed. It is very smooth and I don't anticipate him having any problems
Amazon Customer : Excellent reel
Excellent reel, using it with 50lb braid line and have no backlashing issues unless it's completely my fault.
Drag system works great.
Level wind is sturdy.
Feels good to use!
Drag system works great.
Level wind is sturdy.
Feels good to use!
runnerguy : Perfect for the weekend angler!
I've been a spinning guy my whole life. When I recently decided to buy my first baitcaster, I went to all the online forums and tried to decipher what I should spend my money on. Well, I quickly found out that if I spent anything less than $150 on a baitcasting reel, it would be a complete waste. I might as well tie a string to a can opener, and fish with that! Fortunately, I've been through this before with other hobbies, so I decided to ignore the haters, and spend a measly $40 on the Black Max. And I made the right decision!
If you're a beginner, trust me, the Black Max should be your first baitcaster. It's smooth, casts far, and has plenty of drag. Sure, it takes some practice to learn how to use a baitcaster. I used cheap mono for a while until I got comfortable with it. But after a few fishing trips, I made the switch to braid, and haven't looked back! Yes, you will get a few backlashes in the beginning. It's not as big a deal as you might think. Just start with a tight tension knob, and then loosen it up over time. You'll pick it up pretty quick.
I now have two of these reels. They are on $40 Berkley rods, and guess what? I catch fish! And I mean, a lot of fish! Big fish, little fish, in between fish... they don't seem to mind that I'm using cheap equipment. My PB is currently 6 lbs, 2 oz, using my trusty Black Max.
In all seriousness, if you're a pro, go ahead and spend the bucks on high dollar stuff. Or if you fish several times a week, I can see investing more. But for the weekend angler, this reel is perfect!
P.S. if you are right handed, and you've spent your whole life turning the reel on spinning gear with your left hand... buy left handed baitcasters! You'll thank me later.
Update: 4 months later, I now have 3 of these, they’re still awesome!
2nd update: It’s been 8 months since my last update to this review. I’ve been using my 3 Black Max reels for everything... Texas rig, jigs, lipless cranks, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits... you name it. All 3 reels are just as smooth and strong as the day I took them out of the box. I’ve performed minimal maintenance, and I’m fairly tough on them. But they are rock solid! If you’re on the fence about this one, don’t be! Just buy one and try it out. But beware, they’re so good, you might end up buying several more!
Last update: I thought I would provide one more update... 2 years later! My Black Max reels are still amazing! I haven’t cleaned them, lubed them, or ever taken them apart to work on them. They are still smooth, strong, and work great. Still hands down, the absolute best beginner reel on the market. And experienced guys will love them too!
If you're a beginner, trust me, the Black Max should be your first baitcaster. It's smooth, casts far, and has plenty of drag. Sure, it takes some practice to learn how to use a baitcaster. I used cheap mono for a while until I got comfortable with it. But after a few fishing trips, I made the switch to braid, and haven't looked back! Yes, you will get a few backlashes in the beginning. It's not as big a deal as you might think. Just start with a tight tension knob, and then loosen it up over time. You'll pick it up pretty quick.
I now have two of these reels. They are on $40 Berkley rods, and guess what? I catch fish! And I mean, a lot of fish! Big fish, little fish, in between fish... they don't seem to mind that I'm using cheap equipment. My PB is currently 6 lbs, 2 oz, using my trusty Black Max.
In all seriousness, if you're a pro, go ahead and spend the bucks on high dollar stuff. Or if you fish several times a week, I can see investing more. But for the weekend angler, this reel is perfect!
P.S. if you are right handed, and you've spent your whole life turning the reel on spinning gear with your left hand... buy left handed baitcasters! You'll thank me later.
Update: 4 months later, I now have 3 of these, they’re still awesome!
2nd update: It’s been 8 months since my last update to this review. I’ve been using my 3 Black Max reels for everything... Texas rig, jigs, lipless cranks, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits... you name it. All 3 reels are just as smooth and strong as the day I took them out of the box. I’ve performed minimal maintenance, and I’m fairly tough on them. But they are rock solid! If you’re on the fence about this one, don’t be! Just buy one and try it out. But beware, they’re so good, you might end up buying several more!
Last update: I thought I would provide one more update... 2 years later! My Black Max reels are still amazing! I haven’t cleaned them, lubed them, or ever taken them apart to work on them. They are still smooth, strong, and work great. Still hands down, the absolute best beginner reel on the market. And experienced guys will love them too!
Jason michaels : Absolutely great product
I absolutely love this product and it’s a great value for the money highly recommend it
Victoria Herrera : Love it
Takes some time to get used to casting, but it throws far and smooth. I already love this rod, comfortable even with a rod without a finger index point.
Brendan P Clark : Great Reel for Kokanee & Trout
I've researched many reels recently in an attempt to get a good trolling rod/reel for Kokanee fishing. After many discussions at local shops, I found this reel on Amazon. I do always try to buy local; however, Amazon had them on sale for 40% off from anywhere I could find them locally. At $30 instead of $50, I spent an additional $10 and bought 2.
The good:
Price and quality are both very good. The reel is super smooth and has lots of fine adjustment for drag. Outfitted with 8lbs mono line, it can hold a ton of it. The low profile makes it very user friendly and small enough to fit in my kids hands with ease.
Bad:
My boat is outfitted with the Scotty spinning/baitcaster rod holders. I had to modify them in order to fit the reel.
Great value for the price.
I matched the reels with a pair of Daiwa SPINMATIC 7'6" Ultra Lite Kokanee rods.
The good:
Price and quality are both very good. The reel is super smooth and has lots of fine adjustment for drag. Outfitted with 8lbs mono line, it can hold a ton of it. The low profile makes it very user friendly and small enough to fit in my kids hands with ease.
Bad:
My boat is outfitted with the Scotty spinning/baitcaster rod holders. I had to modify them in order to fit the reel.
Great value for the price.
I matched the reels with a pair of Daiwa SPINMATIC 7'6" Ultra Lite Kokanee rods.
Michael Peeples : Good reel
Really good feel for the the money. I’ve had this real for a year now and it still works great. Cheaper in price but great for learning I’d buy it again for sure.
Drew & Grace : One of the best under $100!!!
This reel surpassed my expectations in every way! I was hoping to get a budget reel that would meet my fishing needs, but this reel is smoother and built better than some $100 baitcasters! I would challenge anyone to find a better dollar for dollar deal on a baitcaster.
Chad : Good reel for the price
I'm not a professional fisherman so for what I do it's perfect. Great smooth reel at a good price. Would by again
JB : Excellent Value
I have more expensive reels, but this Black Max is one great reel for the money! Smooth casting and pretty easy to use. I bought one for my wife for her first baitcaster, so of course I had to get one too. Hers is setup with 14lb big game mono, mine with either 20lb braid or 14lb flouro. For a beginner, set both the tension knob and brake dial on their highest(tightest) settings, then back off the tension knob so that the bait stops when it hits the water when dropped from a foot above. Start casting and backing off the settings on the brake dial until you get a bit of backlash (birdsnest) and then tighten it one mark. You're all set until you advance far enough to get your thumb involved in braking. Don't get discouraged if you get birdsnests from time to time, it even happens to the pros.
TheFreaka : Great starter baitcaster - watch some videos
This is a great beginner baitcast reel, but watch a few videos first! First off, I got a left handed one because I have reeled with my left hand on spinning reels my whole life. Glad I did - feels more natural. Make sure to adjust the tension every time you switch lures- to test, when you release the brake the lure should slowly sink then hit the ground with no backlash. When casting , make sure to feather the spool the whole time then stop it before the lure hits the water. If you are a beginner , start with the side arm cast- overhand is more prone to backlash. I am using with 30 lb braid and haven't had a single rats nest yet following the tips above. Good luck!
Joan R Smith : Fast shipping and great product!
Gift for husband! Loved it!
Chelsey David Hicks : Impressed
First time owner of a batecaster. Well I was very impressed even for a $40.00 reel. After a few cast and how to videos picked it up right away. Very smooth and light weight reel. I’ll be buying more in the future. The very next day I caught a smallmouth 13in 3 1/2 lb bass very impressed for the money.
J. spencer : My grandson is new to fishing....
My grandson is new to fishing and he is absolutely obsessed with it. He wanted a second reel and this one in particular!!!
Kurtis : I love this reel!
Great reel. Great price. If you're searching for an inexpensive reel or are just learning, I highly recommend the Black max. I liked it so much I bought another.
Anonymous : Great quality for the price
It's light-weight and feels very smooth during retrieve. I've been able to cast backlash-free without slowing the spool with my thumb, with the brake set slightly lower than 50% and the spool tension knob set so the spool is just able to be knocked side-to-side, so it's great for beginners. I also recently bought a Lew's Mach II, which was three times the price, and I actually prefer the Black Max. The performance and feel is similar, but the spool seems to be a little more manageable on the Black Max. I haven't tested the drag much, so I can't say if it's good or bad.
I'd recommend this reel to anyone, especially those new to baitcasters. The value probably can't be beat.
I'd recommend this reel to anyone, especially those new to baitcasters. The value probably can't be beat.
T. ROB : Watch the video
I am one of those guys that likes to go fishing every once in a while. However when I do equipment is important. Knowing how to use what you have is key. I watched videos too help me out. Works very well for me.
Bryan Hash : Perfect first baitcaster
First baitcaster, and it’s so simple to use! Lightweight and smooth casting.
Mike Rougee : Great bang for buck!
Great reel for the money, pretty much a "go to" reel in my boat. I own 4 now and havent had any issues. I also own more expensive reels that cast better but have had a few issues with them over the years but these just keep on catching fish!
Justin : Amazing reel for under $60
Great reel for the price. If you’re trying to build a decent bait casting set up on a budget this is definitely the reel to get. I have 50/12 lb braided spider wire on mine and it casts amazing. Any negative backlash or bird nest comments are user error don’t let that turn you away lmao. Super light as well. Would definitely recommend
Cb : Buy a Silver max, you won't regret it.
Reel does its job but not well.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
Keep-ur-corona : DONT BUY ANYTHING FROM THIS SELLER
I got a defective reel. I contacted the seller and got no response. Pure garbage. DONT BUY ANYTHING FROM THIS SELLER
Mark S. Schmidt : If you've never used a bait caster before READ THIS REGARDING LEFT vs. RIGHT HANDED MODELS!
Hello,
First, the reel is fabulous. But, as a person who had never used a bait caster before, I assumed that since I use a right handed spinning reel (meaning you crank it with the LEFT hand an hold the pole with the right) that I needed a RIGHT HANDED BAITCASTER...BUT THIS IS NOT THE CASE. If you prefer cranking with your left hand and holding the pole with your right, then you need a LEFT HANDED BAITCASTER!
First, the reel is fabulous. But, as a person who had never used a bait caster before, I assumed that since I use a right handed spinning reel (meaning you crank it with the LEFT hand an hold the pole with the right) that I needed a RIGHT HANDED BAITCASTER...BUT THIS IS NOT THE CASE. If you prefer cranking with your left hand and holding the pole with your right, then you need a LEFT HANDED BAITCASTER!
Sc33 : Never buy reels from warehouse deals
This is a good reel for the money. I base my opinion on the one I used a friend had let me borrow. The one I bought and received from warehouse deals was a smashed piece of garbage. The sticker said “Inspected”? Yeah by Helen Keller
Jesse : Great intro baitcasting reel
I paired this with an Ugly Stick GX2 and man what an affordable, quality combo. This was a great introduction to baitcaster reels.
Brendan P Clark : Great Reel for Kokanee & Trout
I've researched many reels recently in an attempt to get a good trolling rod/reel for Kokanee fishing. After many discussions at local shops, I found this reel on Amazon. I do always try to buy local; however, Amazon had them on sale for 40% off from anywhere I could find them locally. At $30 instead of $50, I spent an additional $10 and bought 2.
The good:
Price and quality are both very good. The reel is super smooth and has lots of fine adjustment for drag. Outfitted with 8lbs mono line, it can hold a ton of it. The low profile makes it very user friendly and small enough to fit in my kids hands with ease.
Bad:
My boat is outfitted with the Scotty spinning/baitcaster rod holders. I had to modify them in order to fit the reel.
Great value for the price.
I matched the reels with a pair of Daiwa SPINMATIC 7'6" Ultra Lite Kokanee rods.
The good:
Price and quality are both very good. The reel is super smooth and has lots of fine adjustment for drag. Outfitted with 8lbs mono line, it can hold a ton of it. The low profile makes it very user friendly and small enough to fit in my kids hands with ease.
Bad:
My boat is outfitted with the Scotty spinning/baitcaster rod holders. I had to modify them in order to fit the reel.
Great value for the price.
I matched the reels with a pair of Daiwa SPINMATIC 7'6" Ultra Lite Kokanee rods.
N. Burwell : Black Max
Took my Black Max out for the first time on the 4th July and it preformed well, didn’t have no problem casting very little backlash. Setting your tension for every lure you use is important, some lures you don’t have to but it’s best to check.
Scott : Great reel for the money.
Nice little reel. Paired it with a 6’6” ugly stik and does a great job with Reds, flounder and bass. Magnetic brake works great. Smooth casting, whether I am using a light lure or using a 1 ounce rig fishing with live bait. The only drawback I have found is that it needs to be thoroughly washed and oiled after every use. Not that big of a deal though.
MICK686 : Worth it for nwebies!
Got one of these to try out, I used it and I'm impressed for the money it feels good and casts a country mile with no birds nests if you know what you're doing. My son used this (first bait caster) and he had it down in 10 minutes of casting, we kept changing the spool tension and magnetic break and he's looking like a pro with this after 30 minutes! Well worth the money!
BW : I really wanted to like the Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile Reel?
This review should be five stars...but...for the second time this year, the “ line release” feature of the Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile reel is broken. Worse, part of the metal release feature broke off. So two reels with the same issue? When the first one went down I thought maybe I had done something to cause it to break. But today, I was simply going to make a cast and upon pushing the line release feature, part of the metal release mechanism simply fell off. So disappointed. Come on Abu Garcia, you can do better.
Amazon Customer : Excellent reel
Excellent reel, using it with 50lb braid line and have no backlashing issues unless it's completely my fault.
Drag system works great.
Level wind is sturdy.
Feels good to use!
Drag system works great.
Level wind is sturdy.
Feels good to use!
Dr. who : Great reel for the low price point.
You can crank this thing a mile once you get the brakes to your personal setting. Great reel for the low price point. Great one to start with if you've never used a bait caster before!
BW : I really wanted to like the Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile Reel?
This review should be five stars...but...for the second time this year, the “ line release” feature of the Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile reel is broken. Worse, part of the metal release feature broke off. So two reels with the same issue? When the first one went down I thought maybe I had done something to cause it to break. But today, I was simply going to make a cast and upon pushing the line release feature, part of the metal release mechanism simply fell off. So disappointed. Come on Abu Garcia, you can do better.
46YF : Don't waste your money!
I was just getting used to frequent backlashes and thought I must suck at baitcasting. I was settling for wimpy casts
with either the brakes set at max or not using the leverage of the rod tip to cast the line out. Then I invested in a more quality set up - (Lew's Mach Crush Combo), spooled it with the exact same line (30 lb braid to fluorocarbon leader) and MAGIC! all the backlashes disappeared!!! I still use the Black Max but I have to get the brakes EXACTLY right for the weight of the lure and even then... backlashes happen but just not as much. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY. INVEST IN A HIGHER QUALITY SET UP!
with either the brakes set at max or not using the leverage of the rod tip to cast the line out. Then I invested in a more quality set up - (Lew's Mach Crush Combo), spooled it with the exact same line (30 lb braid to fluorocarbon leader) and MAGIC! all the backlashes disappeared!!! I still use the Black Max but I have to get the brakes EXACTLY right for the weight of the lure and even then... backlashes happen but just not as much. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY. INVEST IN A HIGHER QUALITY SET UP!
Pearl delgado : Gargbage
Cant reel in Are you fighting a fish even though I had to drag tied into all the ways
Didi : Great baitcaster for a beginner and overall.
I haven't fished in 15yrs. Spinning reels have been my go to all my life. Decided to make a change with this baitcaster. Overall a good baitcaster. Great for beginners as well. Definitely recommended.
Cb : Buy a Silver max, you won't regret it.
Reel does its job but not well.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
Purchased this for my first cast rod and have been using it for about a year. I was happy with the black max and wanted to build a second casting rod. I impulse bought a silver max combo rod for $60 to repurpose the reel on a separate rod. I finally got around to using the silver max, it was NIGHT AND DAY. There is a huge difference in the brakes. The silver max is MUCH more forgiving on tuning the brakes and on your casting style. I am constantly tweaking the brakes on the black max and consciously trying to avoid backlash. With the silver max it's effortless and forgiving, I can switch lures and can get away without messing with the brakes. Maybe the tuning of the engagements on the brakes is better on the silver but whatever the reason is the difference is obvious. The silver max rod was actually much better than I was expecting as well, the combo is now my favorite stick in the bunch.
I highly recommend saving the extra $. If you try them side by side, you'll be stunned by the difference. Otherwise, I've got a black max I'm looking to sell.
Dennis Hall : Great reel great price!!!
This reel is awesome absolutely love it...
i also have a Shimano 151 SLX I prefer the AlbuGracia. It is just such a sweet reel for the price.
i also have a Shimano 151 SLX I prefer the AlbuGracia. It is just such a sweet reel for the price.
leo : Rinse off and ready for saltwater again
Never had this reel lock up getting wet in the surf or kayak and has held up for a entire year and does not seem like it is going to give up soon I would recommend as a beginner bait caster and using 30-50lb braid and spooling it on tight to prevent digging
Kirk B. : You have to get it set up right.
I haven't owned a new bait caster in probably 20 years, and haven't been bass fishing in nearly as long. Sounds like time for a new reel, doesn't it, lol. I thought so.
To be honest, I was a little disappointed at first. Not knowing how to adjust the brakes and tension on the reel. I either couldn't cast far, or I would birdnest like a son-of-a-gun. I thought maybe it might have something to do with it being the first time I had used braid, too.
Nope! After watching a couple of youtube videos about setting the reel, (and a couple about Russians wrecking in the snow), I went out in the yard and tried again. Night and day difference, Long(-ish) casts and no birdnests. As I got more confident in the settings, the length of my casts increased. Now we're cooking with GAS!
I still have an old 5500C at the house somewhere, but those old reels just can't keep up with the modern technology. I'm glad I stepped up.
***As always, I have neither asked for, nor received, any compensation for my review. This is my own, un-biased opinion. (And lots of it!)***
To be honest, I was a little disappointed at first. Not knowing how to adjust the brakes and tension on the reel. I either couldn't cast far, or I would birdnest like a son-of-a-gun. I thought maybe it might have something to do with it being the first time I had used braid, too.
Nope! After watching a couple of youtube videos about setting the reel, (and a couple about Russians wrecking in the snow), I went out in the yard and tried again. Night and day difference, Long(-ish) casts and no birdnests. As I got more confident in the settings, the length of my casts increased. Now we're cooking with GAS!
I still have an old 5500C at the house somewhere, but those old reels just can't keep up with the modern technology. I'm glad I stepped up.
***As always, I have neither asked for, nor received, any compensation for my review. This is my own, un-biased opinion. (And lots of it!)***
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