When fishing for a good reel, it can be quite a task to handle nowadays since there are numerous options on the market. When it comes to Penn Pursuit III spinning reel vs. KastKing Crixus, the struggle can be even greater since both are amazing cost-effective options for saltwater fishing. So, let’s dive in and help you choose the right spinning reel.
Whether your biggest factor is quality, gear ratio, or price point, then this post has all that information covered – plus, I’ll sprinkle in some honest opinions (aka “fishy wisdom”) along the way. So get ready because it’s time to match these spinners up with each other – rod-a-bob style!
How to Choose Between Penn Pursuit III Spinning Reel vs. KastKing Crixus?
Penn Pursuit III and KastKing Crixus are two popular spinning reel brands among anglers. The Penn Pursuit III spinning reel is known for its durability, smooth drag system, and affordability, making it an excellent option for both beginner and experienced anglers.
KastKing Crixus, on the other hand, is a relatively new brand but has quickly gained popularity due to its high-quality spinning reels at an affordable price. The most important thing that could cause you a headache is that both brands offer quality spinning reels that are reliable and suitable for anglers of all levels.
What Features Should You Have in Mind When Looking for a Reel?
With so many types of fishing reels on the market, no wonder why you can’t make a decision on your own. When looking for a reel, there are several important features to consider that can make a big difference in your fishing experience. Here are some of the key features to keep in mind:
- Reel type – The type of reel you choose will depend on the type of fishing you plan to do. The main types of reels are spinning, baitcasting, and spincasting. Spinning reels are the most popular and versatile for a wide range of fishing styles.
- Gear ratio – The gear ratio determines the speed at which the spool rotates. A higher gear ratio means a faster retrieve, while a lower gear ratio offers more power for fighting bigger fish.
- Bearings – The number and quality of bearings in a reel can affect how smoothly it operates. Look for reels with a higher number of quality bearings for a smoother and more durable reel.
- Spool size – The size of the spool can affect how much line the reel can hold, as well as the casting distance and accuracy.
- Material – The material of the reel body and rotor can affect its durability and weight. Look for materials like graphite or aluminum for a lightweight and durable reel.
- Anti-reverse – An anti-reverse mechanism prevents the handle from turning backward, which can be important when reeling in larger fish.
- Line capacity – The line capacity of the reel determines how much line it can hold, which is important when targeting larger fish or fishing in deep waters.
Check Out the Price Comparison Before Getting to the Important Features
Comparing prices is an important part of the research process when considering different spinning reels, as it can help you find the best value for your money. However, it’s important to keep in mind that price should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a spinning reel.
When it comes to these two reels in particular, be aware we’re talking about budget-friendly reels. So, without further ado, I’ll make a quick comparison between these two. The KastKing Crixus Spinning Fishing Reel is priced higher than the Penn Pursuit III. The price of the KastKing Crixus ranges from $60 to $90, depending on the model.
The Penn Pursuit III is a more affordable option. It comes with a more robust and durable construction and provides smoother and more reliable performance. The price of the Penn Pursuit III ranges from $40 to $80, and of course, the price will change depending on the chosen model.
Let’s Start With the Basics and Get the Bigger Picture of These Two Reels
I have both of these reels, and I’ve been using them for some time. This helped me notice some similarities, but there are a few differences. The KastKing Crixus spinning reel features a lightweight graphite body and rotor, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
The reel has an aluminum spool with a computer-balanced rotor system that provides exceptional smoothness and reliability. It also features a power launch lip that makes it easier to cast lures and baits further. The handle is made of EVA material and provides a comfortable grip.
The Penn Pursuit III Spinning Reel has a corrosion-resistant graphite body and a rotor made of lightweight and durable aluminum. It is designed with a Techno-Balanced rotor that provides smooth retrieves and minimizes wobbling. The reel also features a machined and anodized aluminum spool that is braid-ready and can hold a significant amount of line. The handle is made of ergonomic materials and provides a comfortable grip.
Check the table below, where I compared the most important features of these two reels.
| Feature | KastKing Crixus Spinning Reel | Penn Pursuit III Spinning Reel |
|---|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 6.5:1-7.2:1 | 5.6:1 – 6.2:1 |
| Bearing System | 7+1 Stainless Steel | 5+1 Stainless Steel |
| Drag System | Multi-Disc Carbon Fiber | HT-100 Carbon Fiber |
| Body Material | Graphite | Graphite |
| Rotor Material | Graphite | Graphite |
| Anti-Reverse | One-Way Clutch | Instant Anti-Reverse |
| Weight (oz) | 6.9-11.7 oz (varies by size) | 10-20 oz (varies by size) |
| Price Range | $59.99 – $89.99 | $37.86 – $79.99 |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
Size Does Matter, But Does Weight?
Both the Penn Pursuit III spinning reel and KastKing Crixus spinning reel are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle. However, there are some differences in weight between the two reels. The Penn Pursuit III spinning reel weighs in at around 10-20 ounces, depending on the size of the reel. The smaller sizes of this reel are typically lighter, while the larger sizes are heavier.
KastKing Crixus Spinning Reel Is Lighter
The KastKing Crixus spinning reel is also lightweight, with weights ranging from 6.9 to 11.7 ounces depending on the size, making it one of the lighter spinning reels on the market. This is one of the features I love about this reel since a lighter spinning reel surely can improve the overall balance of my fishing setup. It’s easier to handle and reduces the strain on my wrist and forearm. Not to mention that a well-balanced setup also improves casting accuracy and distance.
The Gear Ratio Range Is the Same, But It Also Depends on the Model You Choose
The gear ratio you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the type of fishing you plan to do. However, no matter if you’re an amateur or a pro, the higher the gear ratio, the better. This being said, Penn Pursuit III and KastKing Crixus reels have the same range of gear ratio. Of course, some models will have a higher ratio and others lower, and it’s the same for both brands.
What Does It Actually Mean for Anglers?
The gear ratio of a fishing reel refers to the number of times the spool rotates for each turn of the handle. For example, a 6:1 gear ratio means that the spool rotates six times for every turn of the handle. In other words, it affects the speed at which they can retrieve their line.
A higher gear ratio reel will retrieve the line more quickly, making it a good choice for techniques such as topwater fishing, where a fast retrieve is often needed to create a realistic action on the lure. On the other hand, a lower gear ratio reel will retrieve the line more slowly but will have more power for fighting larger fish. This can be beneficial when using heavy lures or fishing in deep water.
Bearing System Is Different
The winner in this category is Penn Pursuit III. With the four stainless steel ball bearings and one anti-reverse bearing, it surely provides a smooth retrieve. Count in the anti-reverse bearing that prevents the handle from turning backward.
The KastKing Crixus features double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings that provide exceptional corrosion resistance and enhance the reel’s durability. The number of bearings ranges from four to six, depending on the model. And what I prefer the most, which both models have, is an anti-reverse bearing that prevents the handle from turning backward.
Drag System Is Not the Same
The KastKing Crixus reel has a triple-disc carbon fiber drag system that provides consistent and reliable performance. The drag system is also adjustable and allows anglers to make precise adjustments while fighting a fish. The max drag rating of the KastKing Crixus ranges from 17.5 to 22 pounds depending on the model.
When it comes to Penn Pursuit III, it has a durable drag system that can provide up to 15 pounds of max drag. It uses Penn’s proprietary HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers that offer exceptional stopping power and smoothness. The drag system is adjustable and can be fine-tuned to match the angler’s preferences.
Will You Need Additional Gear?
Both KastKing Crixus and Penn Pursuit III spinning reels are designed to be used right out of the box and typically don’t require any additional gear. However, there are some accessories that can enhance your fishing experience, such as extra spools, line, and reel covers. Spare spools can be helpful in changing lines quickly, while a high-quality fishing line can improve casting distance and accuracy.
A reel cover can also protect your reel from scratches and other damage during transportation and storage. I love to use Dovesun Fishing Spool Belt, but, of course, it will all depend on your fishing type and personal preference.
KastKing Crixus Could Be the Winner, But It All Depends on Your Fishing Needs
As always, the battle between reels is real. You can have KastKing Crixus and its amazing features on your side or pick any of the other reliable models out there – the choice is completely yours. In the end, it all depends on you and what works for your style of fishing. The most important thing to keep in mind is that whichever way you go about it, don’t forget to enjoy the ride!
Julie Grace
Julie is a passionate angler who proves that fishing is not just a man's world. Armed with her trusty rod and a contagious love for the sport, she's always ready to tackle any fishing challenge head-on. Her finesse and determination make her a force to be reckoned with, and her ability to reel in big catches is nothing short of fin-tastic.
