The launch of the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel has caught the attention of a lot of anglers who want longer casting distance without adding extra weight. I’ve spent some time with this reel since its release in September 2025, and I’m excited to walk you through what makes this baitcasting reel worth your consideration.
QUICK LOOK: Key Features of the New KastKing Sharky III Long cast
- AutoMag Dual Braking System: This uses both centrifugal and magnetic brakes. You can fine-tune the sensitivity to match your conditions or lure choice, which helps keep every cast smooth and controlled. I found it easy to adjust without taking your eyes off the water.
- LFTV (Low Friction Tapered Vortex) Line Guide: The patented, funnel-shaped guide made a noticeable difference in the way my line peeled off the spool. Less friction meant my casts went farther and with less effort, especially using lighter lines.
- CNC Long Cast Spool: The machine-cut spool is engineered for minimal resistance. This helped me launch lures way farther compared to traditional spools on other midrange reels I’ve used before.
- Precision Gear System: There’s a double-supported shaft and a precisely machined brass pinion gear. I noticed the retrieve stays smooth under load, with less wobble, even after a few tough fish.
- 13.2 lbs Carbon Fiber Drag: The maximum drag is powered by high-quality carbon washers, so when a bigger fish hit, I never felt outmatched. The drag setting felt predictable and didn’t stutter when needed most.
- Lightweight Construction: The blend of glass fiber reinforced nylon and CNC aluminum gives you a super light reel. After a full morning of casting, my wrist and arm didn’t feel worn out at all.
In the sections below, I’ll cover my hands-on experience, break down the main features, explore what sets it apart from the original Sharky III reel, and share some honest feedback from other users. This should give any interested buyer a much clearer picture of whether the Long Cast model is the right choice for their fishing style.
Getting to Know the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel
The KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel stands out because it’s designed for those long, smooth casts that can really make a difference when targeting distant fish. Unlike the original Sharky III spinning model, which is ideal for a mix of freshwater and saltwater fishing, this new baitcasting version is tailored specifically for performance and casting control.
With a carbon fiber frame, CNC-machined spool, and the new LFTV line guide system, my experience with this reel has been all about reduced friction and increased comfort, even after hours on the water. The dual braking system grabbed my attention right away by making adjustments for wind and lure changes simple and fast, which helps avoid the frustration of backlash during casting.
Main Features and Technology Explained
This reel includes several cool features aimed at improving casting results, comfort, and durability. Here’s what really stood out to me:
- AutoMag Dual Braking System: This uses both centrifugal and magnetic brakes. You can fine-tune the sensitivity to match your conditions or lure choice, which helps keep every cast smooth and controlled. I found it easy to adjust without taking your eyes off the water.
- LFTV (Low Friction Tapered Vortex) Line Guide: The patented, funnel-shaped guide made a noticeable difference in the way my line peeled off the spool. Less friction meant my casts went farther and with less effort, especially using lighter lines.
- CNC Long Cast Spool: The machine-cut spool is engineered for minimal resistance. This helped me launch lures way farther compared to traditional spools on other midrange reels I’ve used before.
- Precision Gear System: There’s a double-supported shaft and a precisely machined brass pinion gear. I noticed the retrieve stays smooth under load, with less wobble, even after a few tough fish.
- 13.2 lbs Carbon Fiber Drag: The maximum drag is powered by high-quality carbon washers, so when a bigger fish hit, I never felt outmatched. The drag setting felt predictable and didn’t stutter when needed most.
- Lightweight Construction: The blend of glass fiber reinforced nylon and CNC aluminum gives you a super light reel. After a full morning of casting, my wrist and arm didn’t feel worn out at all.
For anyone who likes to tinker or wants to dial in their setup, these features are easy to access and don’t require extra tools or complicated steps. If you take your fishing seriously, this means more time on the water and less time fiddling with gear.
How the Long Cast Model Differs from the Original Sharky III
Even though both reels share the Sharky III name, their purposes are pretty different. The original Sharky III is a spinning reel that suits both fresh and saltwater environments. It’s versatile for everything from panfish to redfish, focusing more on all-around reliability. This versatility has helped it become a favorite for plenty of anglers with mixed fishing interests.
The Long Cast version, on the other hand, is made specifically for baitcasting and exceptional distance. The spool, braking, and line guide systems are entirely redesigned for this. The main difference I noticed was how much farther and more accurately I could cast with the Long Cast than the regular spinning model.
The feel in the hand is also sportier, and the refined balance means casting fatigue is less of an issue after several hours. If you fish big open water where range matters or want to cover more water per cast, this reel gives you an advantage compared to the original spinning reel.

Tips for Getting the Best Performance
I’ve picked up a few tricks after testing the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel. If you’re a beginner in baitcasting, here are some steps that helped me hit better casts faster:
- Start with Adjusted Brakes: Set both magnetic and centrifugal brakes higher when trying out new lures until you get used to the reel’s response.
- Use the Right Line: Lighter, limp lines will maximize the effect of the LFTV line guide. I got more distance with 10-15lb braid versus heavier monofilament.
- Match Lure Weight: Heavier lures make it easier to take advantage of the spool’s long cast design, especially for beginners working on their casting motion.
- Practice Casting Form: This reel is forgiving, but a smooth, fluid cast (no jerky motions) will make the most of the gear ratio and reduced friction design.
- Check Wind Direction: Make small brake adjustments if the wind changes. The easy-to-tweak brake dials help stop backlashes even as the breeze switches up. It’s a real plus for open water anglers.
Dialing in the reel to your specific rod and technique can really help boost your confidence and results, whether you’re tossing crankbaits or lighter soft plastics. Keep practicing and you’ll make the most of the reel’s features.
Pros and Cons Based on Real-World Use
After reading through dozens of reviews and putting in hours on the water myself, here’s what I think you should know:
| Pros of the KastKing Sharky III |
|---|
| Excellent Casting Distance: My first impression was how easily the reel delivered longer casts compared to reels in a similar price range. Several anglers online agreed, saying the brakes could even be set very low and still perform well. |
| Beginner Friendly: The braking system is forgiving, especially for folks who are still learning to fine-tune their setup. Backlashes were rare even when I changed wind angles. |
| Affordability: The reel’s price is easy on the wallet, given all its premium-feeling features. I appreciate not having to spend a fortune for strong casting performance. |
| Really Smooth Retrieve: Right out of the box, the gear feel is more refined than some much pricier baitcasters. Even after rough use, the smoothness held up. |
| Effective for Medium-Sized Fish: Pulling in speckled trout and slot reds, it felt controlled and solid. The drag adjusts easily and holds strong even during fast runs. |
| Cons of the KastKing Sharky III |
|---|
| Frame Flex Under Heavy Load: When fighting bigger fish, I did notice a bit of flex in the frame. This probably won’t matter for most freshwater fishing, but it might be a downside if you’re chasing trophy-class fish regularly. |
| Plastic Casing Feel: Parts of the reel are made of glass fiber reinforced nylon, so if you’re used to solid aluminum bodies, the feel might seem less premium. I found the rigidity just fine, but the tactile impression reminded me of midtier reels. |
| EVA Handle Knobs: Some users prefer harder or rubberized grips. The EVA foam offered a secure grip, but these knobs can wear down with time or heavy saltwater exposure. |
| Gear Tolerances: A small amount of gear noise became noticeable during fast retrieves. This didn’t affect my fishing, but if you value silent operation, it’s something to consider. |
Despite a few minor issues, I find the pros outweigh the cons, especially if long casting and comfort matter most to you. For someone focused on distance and ease of use above all else, this reel’s lightweight, easy casting design really shines.
Where to Buy and Pricing Information
Ordering the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel is simple. I purchased mine straight from the official KastKing website. As of September 2025, these reels are regularly in stock, often with seasonal discounts. It’s also available on other online retailers, but I usually recommend buying from KastKing for warranty coverage and authenticity.
This way, you know you’re getting the real deal and can count on support if you happen to run into any issues with your order. Consider keeping an eye on special offers or package deals, which sometimes include extra spools or line at a reduced price. It never hurts to check multiple outlets and see who’s offering the best deal at the moment.
Reviews from Other Anglers
Checking out online reviews always gives me an extra perspective when considering any new reel. Here’s what I found from other real-world users:
One angler from September 2025 described the reel as “smooth and worth every penny.” Multiple reviewers praised the casting distance, even with little braking, and liked that it handled medium-sized fish without giving them trouble. A video review from late 2025 also focused on the lightweight construction and ease of tuning the brakes for wind and lure changes.
The most common complaint was about the plastic feel and the chance of flex when hooked into larger fish. Some pointed out that the EVA handle knobs are comfortable when new, but might need replacement over time with heavy use. Overall, feedback leaned strongly positive, highlighting its strengths for anglers moving up to longer casting and refined baitcasting reels without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re still deciding if the Sharky III Long Cast is your next reel, I’ve pulled together some common questions and answers:
Can I use the Sharky III Long Cast for saltwater fishing?
Yes, you can, just make sure to rinse the reel after every outing and occasionally lube the gears for the best lifespan.
Is this reel hard to set up for long casts?
No, the dual braking system is easy to adjust and works well even for beginners. A few practice casts are usually enough to get comfortable.
Does the plastic casing break down fast?
The hard nylon composite is quite tough for everyday fishing. Heavy saltwater use may cause more wear, so regular cleaning is important. Take care of it and you’ll get plenty of life out of the reel.
What rod and line work best with this reel?
I like pairing it with a 7-foot medium-heavy rod and either 10-15lb braided line for max casting distance. Heavier rods can handle larger baits, but I find the reel shines with medium setups.
Final Thoughts on the KastKing Sharky III Longcast
If you want a casting reel that goes the distance without weighing down your setup, I genuinely think the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel delivers great performance for the money. It has become my go-to choice whenever I know I’ll be throwing baits across big water, or when I need a lightweight, all-day companion.
Anglers who like value and innovation will likely enjoy using this reel, especially if they don’t need the ruggedness of a full metal housing. For everyday use, weekend tournaments, or even as a reliable backup, it checks all the main boxes I look for in a long-casting baitcaster.
Start casting farther and more comfortably on your next trip. The Sharky III Long Cast could be the reel that helps you reach that extra bit of water you’ve always wanted to fish.
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A life long surf fisherman with 50+ years of experience, I am also an avid hunter and outdoorsman. I will be sharing my passion for the outdoors with you so be prepared for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and more. Along with gear reviews and the latest trends and innovations in the outdoor industry.

