Left-handed baitcasting reels are built with the handle on the left side, letting you cast and retrieve without switching hands
A left-handed baitcasting reel has its handle positioned on the left side of the reel body. This means you cast with your right hand, then turn the handle with your left without ever moving the rod to your other hand. If you're left-handed or simply prefer not to switch hands between casting and retrieving, this setup eliminates that extra step and keeps your casting arm in control throughout the retrieve.
The catch: left-handed models are less common than right-handed ones. Most manufacturers produce far fewer left-handed options, which limits your choices and often means paying more. You'll find them, but you have to look for them specifically — they won't be the default option in most tackle shops or online listings.
Key Takeaways
- Left-handed reels have the handle on the left, so you cast with your right hand and retrieve with your left without switching the rod between hands.
- Inventory is limited compared to right-handed models, and left-handed reels typically cost $20 to $50 more than their right-handed equivalents.
- Major brands like Shimano, Abu Garcia, and Daiwa make left-handed versions, but you may need to order online or special-order through a dealer.
- Left-handed reels work best for anglers who are naturally left-handed or who learned to fish without switching hands between casts and retrieves.
Which manufacturers make left-handed baitcasting reels
Shimano produces left-handed models across its Curado, Chronarch, and SLX lines. These are mid-range to premium reels, and left-handed versions are usually available but may require ordering. Abu Garcia makes left-handed Revo and Revo Toro models, though availability varies by retailer and season. Daiwa offers left-handed options in its Seitaro and Tatula lines, and Pflueger makes left-handed President and Supreme models at lower price points.
Availability is the real constraint. A major tackle retailer might stock three right-handed models for every left-handed one. Online retailers like Amazon, Tackle Direct, and manufacturer websites often have better selection, but you'll pay shipping and may wait longer for delivery. If you have a local shop that special-orders, calling ahead and asking them to bring in a left-handed model can sometimes save you the online hassle.
Price differences between left-handed and right-handed models
Left-handed baitcasting reels typically cost $20 to $50 more than the same model in right-handed configuration. A Shimano Curado right-handed might run $150, while the left-handed version costs $170 to $180. This premium exists because manufacturers produce smaller batches of left-handed reels, spreading tooling and setup costs across fewer units.
Budget reels show smaller price gaps — a Pflueger President left-handed might be only $10 to $15 more than right-handed. Premium reels show larger gaps because the base price is higher and the production volume difference is steeper. Shopping sales and older model years can sometimes close the gap; a previous-season left-handed reel on clearance may cost the same as a current-year right-handed model.
How to find left-handed reels in stock or on order
Start with online retailers that list inventory by hand orientation. Tackle Direct, Bass Pro Shops, and Cabela's all filter by left-handed or right-handed. Amazon carries many models but read reviews carefully — some listings mix inventory from multiple sellers, and you may receive a right-handed reel by mistake. Check the product photos and description before ordering.
If you want to see and handle a reel before buying, call local tackle shops and ask if they stock left-handed models or can special-order. Most shops can order from their distributors within a week or two, and you'll avoid shipping costs. Manufacturer websites sometimes list authorized dealers in your area and show which ones carry left-handed stock.
Left-handed vs. switching hands: which approach works better
If you're naturally left-handed, a left-handed reel lets you keep your dominant hand on the rod throughout the cast and retrieve. This gives you better feel and control, especially when setting the hook or fighting a fish. You don't have to think about hand position — it's automatic.
Many right-handed anglers who fish left-handed (casting with the right, retrieving with the left) also prefer left-handed reels for the same reason: no hand switch means no fumbling and no lost focus during the retrieve. If you've been fishing this way for years, switching to a right-handed reel and learning to switch hands will feel awkward and slow you down.
However, some anglers prefer to switch hands and use a right-handed reel. They argue that keeping the rod in their dominant hand during the retrieve gives them better hook-setting power. This is a legitimate preference, and plenty of successful anglers fish this way. The real answer is: use whichever setup matches how you already fish or how you learned.
Drag systems and features in left-handed models
Left-handed reels have the same drag systems, bearing counts, and gear ratios as their right-handed counterparts. A left-handed Shimano Curado has the same magnetic braking, the same number of ball bearings, and the same retrieve speed as the right-handed version. The only difference is handle position.
This means you're not sacrificing performance or durability by going left-handed. You get the same reel — just oriented for your hand. When comparing models, focus on the reel's specs (drag capacity, gear ratio, bearing count) rather than worrying that left-handed versions are somehow inferior. They're not.
Switching from right-handed to left-handed (or vice versa)
If you own a right-handed reel and want to switch to left-handed, you have two options: sell or trade the right-handed reel and buy left-handed, or learn to fish the opposite way. Some anglers do switch hands successfully, especially if they're young or new to baitcasting. If you've been fishing right-handed for years, the muscle memory is strong, and retraining takes real time and patience.
Trading in a used right-handed reel at a tackle shop or selling it online can offset part of the cost of a left-handed replacement. Facebook Marketplace and eBay both have active fishing gear sections. A used mid-range reel in good condition typically sells for 40 to 60 percent of its original price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert a right-handed reel to left-handed?
No. The handle, gear assembly, and brake system are all built for one orientation. Attempting to move parts will damage the reel. Buying a left-handed model is the only reliable option.
Are left-handed reels as durable as right-handed ones?
Yes. They use the same materials, bearings, and construction methods. The only difference is which side the handle sits on. Durability and performance are identical.
Do left-handed reels work with any rod?
Yes. A left-handed reel mounts on any baitcasting rod the same way a right-handed reel does. The rod itself has no handedness — only the reel does.
Why are left-handed reels so much harder to find?
Manufacturers produce fewer left-handed reels because fewer anglers use them. Smaller production runs mean higher per-unit costs and less shelf space in stores. Online retailers have better selection because they don't face physical space limits.
Should I buy a left-handed reel if I'm just learning to baitcast?
If you're naturally left-handed or you plan to cast with your right hand and retrieve with your left, yes — start with left-handed. Learning the wrong way and retraining later is harder than learning correctly from the start. If you're right-handed and plan to switch hands, a right-handed reel is fine.