Ark gravity bfs vs slx bfs, which reel cast the furthest

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**TL;DR**: Both Ark Gravity BFS and SLX BFS can cast very far; the reel that actually goes the distance is the one paired with the right rod, line, lure, and technique. In controlled tests, the distance differences are usually small and setup-dependent.

**What drives longer casts**:
- **Spool geometry and inertia**
- **Braking system** (mag/centrifugal) tuning
- **Lure weight and aerodynamics**
- **Line type and diameter**
- **Rod length and action**
- **Weather and wind** (late fall can add wind resistance)

**Ark Gravity BFS in tests**:
- Cast Test Ark Gravity BFS reel with Z-Man Fishing Chatterbait Flashback Mini and Baby BallerZ: [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62VE2Ht4gkA)
- How Low can Ark Gravity BFS Reel Cast? Ultralight Bait Finesse Cast Testing with Tsurinoya Clever: [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MffQyEIAGSU)
- Unboxing the NEW 2025 Ark Gravity BFS Reel - My Honest First Impressions: [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmf1w3i6ZoU)

**SLX BFS notes**:
- SLX BFS is Shimano’s budget-friendly BFS option. Distances depend on brakes, line, and lure; with a similar setup, you can see very close performance to the Ark in typical bass finesse lures.

**Practical tips to maximize distance** (late fall conditions):
- **Lure**: go lightweight and aerodynamic (1/16–1/8 oz) to reduce air resistance.
- **Line**: use a thin, smooth line, often braided with a fluorocarbon leader to balance distance and knot security.
- **Spool/brake**: start with light braking and adjust to reduce backlashes—perfect tuning is the key.
- **Cast technique**: practice a smooth, rounded pendulum cast; keep the rod tip up and use a light thumb control to prevent overruns.
- **Rod**: pair with a longer rod (7’0”–7’4”) for more leverage on light lures.
- **Weather**: late fall winds can add resistance; cast with the wind when possible and be mindful of temperature impacting line stiffness and memory.

**Amazon reel options for BFS distance**:
- [Team ARK Gravity 5 Casting Reel (6.4 Gear Ratio, Right Hand)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHR9LB39?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Team ARK Gravity 5 Casting Reel (7.1 Gear Ratio, Right Hand)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHRBMBDB?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Team ARK Gravity 7 Casting Reel (8.1 Gear Ratio, Left Hand)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHR9S8M5?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Swing for the fences, keep practicing, and let the gear do the work—you’ve got this! 😊

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