Code Black Baitcast Reel | 13 Fishing
We built the 13 Fishing Code Black to meet the demands of tournament anglers who require surgical precision with every cast. This low-profile baitcaster combines our Japanese HAMAI cut brass gearing with a 6-way centrifugal braking system that eliminates backlash while maximizing casting distance.
The Code Black’s aircraft-grade aluminum frame houses 10 stainless steel ball bearings plus our Zero Rust roller bearing, delivering the smoothest retrieve in its class. We engineered this reel for professionals who fish jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics in heavy cover where control and durability matter most.
Code Black precision features
Precision Engineering & Construction
We machine every Code Black component to tournament specifications. The Japanese HAMAI cut brass pinion gear meshes with our hardened brass main gear to eliminate the wobble and play common in lesser reels. This zero-tolerance engineering delivers the confidence you need when setting the hook on a bass buried in timber.
Our aircraft-grade aluminum frame weighs just 7.3 ounces yet maintains rigidity under maximum drag pressure. The same attention to detail we apply across our entire reel collection ensures every Code Black leaves our facility ready for professional competition. We coat all external metal surfaces with our proprietary corrosion-resistant finish that stands up to both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Braking System & Casting Control
6-Way Centrifugal Brake
The Code Black’s externally adjustable centrifugal brake system gives you precise control over spool speed without removing the side plate. We position six individual brake pins around the spool perimeter—engage all six for pitching jigs into heavy cover, or dial back to two pins for bombing crankbaits across open water.
Our magnetic cast control dial on the exterior sideplate provides micro-adjustments on the fly. This dual-brake design works with lure weights from 1/4 ounce to 2 ounces, making the Code Black versatile enough to handle your entire tackle arsenal. The centrifugal system activates at higher spool speeds while the magnetic brake maintains control throughout the entire cast.
Drag System & Line Management
We install a carbon fiber drag stack that delivers 17.5 pounds of smooth, consistent stopping power. The drag engages progressively—no stuttering or grabbing when a fish surges toward structure. Our testing shows the Code Black maintains 95% of its rated drag pressure even after extended sessions in harsh conditions.
The Arrowhead line guide reduces friction by 40% compared to standard ceramic guides, extending line life and increasing casting distance. We cut the line guide aperture at a specific angle that prevents line dig-in on the spool, a common problem when fishing braid. The guide accommodates line weights from 10-pound test up to 65-pound braid without modification.
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Code Black Baitcast Reel Questions
The Code Black is available in 7.3:1 gear ratio, delivering 31 inches of line per handle turn. This medium-fast retrieve speed provides the ideal balance for techniques like jig fishing, spinnerbaits, and medium-diving crankbaits. The 7.3:1 ratio gives you enough speed to pick up slack quickly when a fish moves toward the boat while maintaining the torque needed for power fishing presentations in heavy cover.
The Code Black features two independent brake adjustments. The external magnetic cast control dial on the non-handle sideplate twists to increase or decrease magnetic brake force—turn clockwise for more braking. To adjust the centrifugal brake, remove the sideplate using the release button and slide the brake pins in or out on their tracks. Start with three pins engaged for general fishing, then add pins for wind or lighter lures, or remove pins for maximum distance with heavier baits.
Yes, we build the Code Black with corrosion-resistant components including our Zero Rust bearing system and proprietary frame coating. While it performs excellently in saltwater, we recommend rinsing the reel with fresh water after each saltwater session and applying a light oil to the spool shaft and bearings monthly. The sealed bearings and aluminum construction resist salt damage better than most baitcasters in this class.
The Code Black spool holds 120 yards of 12-pound monofilament, 140 yards of 30-pound braid, or 100 yards of 14-pound fluorocarbon. We machine the spool with a shallow profile optimized for braid, which prevents line digging and maintains consistent casting performance. The Arrowhead line guide accommodates line from 10-pound test up to 65-pound braid without requiring any modifications or additional inserts.
The Code Black is available as either a right-hand retrieve model or left-hand retrieve model at purchase. The handle position is not reversible after purchase. We engineer each version with the internal drag stack oriented specifically for that retrieve direction to maintain optimal drag performance. When ordering, select RH for right-hand retrieve (handle on right side, crank with right hand) or LH for left-hand retrieve.
The Code Black’s carbon fiber drag system delivers 17.5 pounds of maximum drag pressure. This stopping power handles bass up to 10 pounds in heavy cover and provides enough pressure for techniques like frogging thick vegetation or pulling fish away from structure. The drag engages progressively and maintains consistency throughout the entire range, from light finesse presentations requiring 2-3 pounds of drag up to maximum power fishing pressure.
Both reels feature Japanese gearing and premium bearing systems, but the Code Black uses centrifugal braking while the <a href=”/inception/”>Inception</a> employs our Centrifugal Force Induction brake. The Code Black offers external brake adjustment, making it easier to adapt to changing conditions without removing the sideplate. The Inception has a slightly higher bearing count and our Evolve D2 gearing, making it better suited for ultra-lightweight finesse presentations. The Code Black excels at power fishing techniques with lures from 1/4 to 2 ounces.