How important are bearings on a baitcaster?

[GeoFisher]

Important, but there are only a few that I give a RIP about.

When I replace bearings in a 10 bearing reel, I generally replace 3 or 4 bearings. The spool bearings and the knob bearing are the only ones I care about.

One spool bearing is attached to the spool usually. If you can replace this...some you can some you cannot, the replace it. If not, don't worry about it

The bushing/bearing under the removable plate. Replace it. the bearing under the tension knob.replace it.

Here is a great provider for them: http://www.vxb.com/page/bearings/CTG...Fcqf7QodzC2uJA

Later,

Geo

[Rico13]

Thanks guys, that is some great information. I have a lot to learn

[kyjake]

The two spool bearings are important,any more become less important as the numbers increase.I still use reels with no bearings and find they still work very well.
Jake