You can fish muskies with the same baitcaster you use for bass, but if you hang a trophy, you'll want something stronger and sturdier.
Here's what to look for when shopping for a reel.
Strong Frame: A plastic, graphite or flimsy plastic frame won't stand up to as much hard use as one with an aluminum frame. The toughest reels have a frame machined from a solid aluminum blank.
Wide Spool: Choose a reel with a wide spool because you'll want it to hold plenty of heavy line. It also casts better than a narrow spool reel because it the line level doesn't fall as low on a long cast.
Smooth Drag: Make sure the drag slips smoothly over a wide range of tension settings.
High Gear Ratio: A high-speed reel is the best choice for casting for muskies. Select a reel with at least a 4.5:1 ratio. A slower reel will wear you out faster.
Long Handle: The extra leverage provided by a long handle enables you to crank in hard-pulling lures with little effort, again conserving your energy.