What makes the ITB braking different from standard magnetic brakes?

ParaMag ITB adjusts braking force in proportion to casting speed, so it self-corrects through the cast. That reduces the need to thumb the spool on every cast once you dial in the settings.

How much drag does it have?

The carbon fiber drag system is rated at 20 lbs, enough for bass and most freshwater species.

What is the spool size and why does it matter?

It uses a compact 30mm spool. That keeps the reel palmable and light, though it holds less line than larger-spool baitcasters.

How many bearings does it have?

It has an 11-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings, plus a bearing-supported P2 Super Pinion gear.

Is it good for beginners?

It can be, but the ITB system rewards some practice dialing it in. Beginners may find a simpler brake system easier at first.

What handle does it come with?

A bowed 95mm carbon fiber handle with Lew's Pro Power knobs for leverage and grip.

Where is the Lew's Custom Pro Baitcasting Reels cheapest?

At eBay, for $279.99, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Lew's Custom Pro Baitcasting Reels?

14 stores we checked sell it, including Copperstate Florida, Amazon, eBay, Tackle Warehouse, Cabela's.

Lew's Custom Pro Baitcasting Reels

Best price now

$279.99at eBayChecked 2 h ago

Compared across 13 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission.

Visit eBay

Ask our agent about this product

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.

Price facts

What reviewers say

Owners of Lew's high-end baitcasters generally praise the smooth gearing, long casts and reliable drag, and the ITB braking is often called a set-and-forget system. Some note a learning curve while dialing the brakes and a higher cost than entry reels.

What people mention

Cast controlPraisedITB braking is described as adjusting on its own, cutting the need to thumb the spool.
SmoothnessPraisedOwners call the gears and bearings smooth and quiet under load.
DragPraisedThe 20 lb carbon drag is reported as strong and consistent.
SetupMixedSome say the brake settings take trial and error before casts feel right.
ValueMixedBuyers see the build as premium but note it costs more than entry baitcasters.

About the Lew's Custom Pro Baitcasting Reels

The Lew's Custom Pro is a compact baitcasting reel with a 30mm spool. It has a one-piece aluminum super low-profile frame with C45 carbon sideplates and a recessed brake dial. The spool is aircraft-grade, double anodized Duralumin with a drilled U-shape and the Speed Knot quick line attachment feature.

The reel uses ParaMag ITB (Inertia Transfer Braking) for cast control. After the settings are dialed in, the magnetic system adjusts the braking force in proportion to casting speed. This virtually eliminates the need to thumb the spool on every cast.

Inside, the Speed Gears are hard aluminum, with a pinion gear supported by a P2 Super Pinion bearing. An 11-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings supports smooth operation. The carbon fiber drag system delivers up to 20 lbs. of drag power. A bowed 95mm carbon fiber handle with Lew's Pro Power knobs adds leverage and comfort.

Spool

30mm aircraft-grade double anodized Duralumin, drilled U-shape, Speed Knot line attachment

Frame

One-piece aluminum, super low-profile

Sideplates

C45 carbon

Cast control

ParaMag ITB (Inertia Transfer Braking) magnetic system, recessed brake dial

Gears

Hard aluminum Speed Gears with P2 Super Pinion bearing supported pinion gear

Bearings

11-bearing system, double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings