Lew's BB1

The Lew’s BB1 LFS 5.1:1 Baitcast Reel is a purpose-built cranking reel designed for anglers who want long casts, high line capacity, and a slow, controlled retrieve. The 5.1:1 gear ratio retrieves approximately 21 inches of line per handle turn, a speed Lew’s specifically highlights for fishing diving and deep-diving crankbaits.

The BB1 features a one-piece aluminum frame paired with a machined, double-anodized aluminum U-shaped spool. Its large-capacity spool holds 160 yards of 12-lb. line, making it particularly well suited for making the long casts needed to get deep-diving crankbaits to their maximum running depth.

Lew’s SmartPlus 6-Pin Centrifugal Braking System provides adjustable spool control throughout the cast. The system uses four spring-loaded brake pins along with two additional speed-control pins to balance casting distance with backlash control.

Key Features

5.1:1 gear ratio

21" line recovery per turn

Designed especially for deep-diving crankbaits

One-piece aluminum frame

Machined, double-anodized aluminum large-capacity spool

10-bearing system

SmartPlus 6-Pin centrifugal braking system

Carbon composite drag system

Bowed aluminum handle with SoftTouch paddle knobs

Oversized line guide positioned to reduce line friction

Quick-release sideplate for brake adjustments

External lubrication port

Line capacity: 160 yd./12 lb.

Reel weight: 7.1 oz.

Available as BB1 right-hand and BB1L left-hand models

Best Uses:Deep-diving crankbaits, medium/deep crankbaits, cold-water cranking, and slow-rolling spinnerbaits. Lew’s notes that the 5.1:1 range is especially useful for deep cranking because an overly fast retrieve can work against achieving maximum crankbait depth.