Rod and reel combos, oddly enough, appear in Greek, Chinese and Egyptian art dating back thousands of years.
Obviously they’ve evolved a lot since then —design, construction and performance are worlds better.
After considering all the options our top picks were…
But improved technology and hundreds of fishing gear options make matching a reel to a rod harder than it should be.
The good news is that you don’t have to pair them yourself —lots of serious fishermen, from trout to bass anglers, roll with a rod and reel combo.
Going with a combo means you get a rod and reel tandem that’s perfectly balanced.
It removes any possibility of error, and is usually cheaper than buying a rod and reel combo separately.
If you need info on the perfect combination for your needs, then read on as this article gives you a deep dive into the different offerings on the market.
Round-up Summary
So what’s the best fishing rod and reel combo for the money? Great question. I’m about to show you my absolute favorites —
Best All-Rounder
PENN Battle II Spinning Combo
The Battle II comes in 9 models that cover a nice range of rod action, power and max drag. The rods span medium-fast to extra-fast action, and cover medium-light to heavy power.
PENN Battle II Spinning Combo
This set-up checks all the boxes, and has a wide range of models. You can fish freshwater and saltwater, so if you’re looking for a spinner combo built for both worlds, here you go —
No Fish Is Out of Reach
This set-up is one of my favorites because it’s built to catch all types of freshwater and saltwater fish species. From crappie to mahimahi this combo gives you lots of options.
The Battle II comes in models 2000 – 8000 and covers a nice range of rod action, power and max drag —
- Medium-fast, fast and extra-fast rod action
- Medium-light to heavy rod power
- 9 – 30 pounds of max drag
The 2000 – 4000 models come with a spinning reel with a high gear ratio and decent line capacity. That means you get a fast retrieve, which helps when fishing the ocean floor with shrimp or deepwater jigging in lakes.
NOTE
But keep in mind that larger models have longer rods and heavier reels, with a lower gear ratio. These models are more expensive and aren’t as easy to tote around.
Each spinning reel is embedded with a HT-100 drag system known for staying smooth under pressure. They also have a full metal body, side plate and rotor.
Its bearing count is pretty decent —boasting 6 for a smooth cast and retrieve. That’s a little above average, but there are plenty of reels with more bearings if you like a higher number.
The rods have 6 – 8 aluminum oxide guides. They’re extremely strong with a nice reel seat and come in handy when battling a largemouth or setting the hook on a saltwater hog.
Best On a Budget
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
The “Elite” rod is pretty impressive —it has upgraded strength over the old GX2. It’s stronger because it’s been reinforced with 35% more graphite to handle bigger fish. It might be the best fishing rod and reel combo for the money.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
Sometimes every dollar counts, and saving money is crucial. But at the same time, sacrificing quality isn’t an option —I totally get it.
Thankfully there is a killer baitcasting rod and reel combo built for fishing on a budget. I used this duo at the Chestatee River in Dahlonega, Georgia and pulled in some chunky bass —
Quality and Economy Collide
If you prefer baitcasting reels over spinning reels then here’s a set-up you might like. This combo comes with a sturdy 6 1/2 foot rod and a baitcasting reel with line capacity to handle large fish.
The “Elite” rod has upgraded strength over its predecessor —the GX2. It’s stronger because it’s beefed up with 35% more graphite, so don’t be scared to go after trophy bass.
Added Weight
On the flip-side, this rod is a bit heavier so be prepared for a little extra weight. Its extra rod power also gives it more backbone, and its stiff top-end helps deliver solid hook-sets.
The bearing count is a little low —sporting just 3, but it casts and reels smooth enough. It has a high ratio of 6.2:1, which comes in handy if you’re doing a lot of reeling. But keep in mind even a functional baitcasting rod can be difficult to cast.
NOTE
This set-up isn’t exactly ideal for finesse fishing, so if you’re hunting an ultralight combo then you should probably keep looking.
Although this rod has an Ugly Stik Clear Tip for sensitivity, some anglers say it’s hard to “feel” the fish on the line.
In a nutshell it’s a good bass, catfishing and inshore saltwater reel combo perfect for running spinners by weed lines and deepwater jigging. It will get you on the water catching fish without breaking your wallet.
Editor’s Choice
KastKing Crixus Spinning and Casting Combos
All the reels in this series have a powerful carbon fiber drag system plus 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. The guides are stainless-steel with zirconium oxide rings —so they’re ready for big fish and have good braided line capacity.
KastKing Crixus Spinning and Casting Combos
Sure, I kind of put these next fishing combos on a pedestal —but it’s for good reason. They offer high-performance spinning and baitcasting rod and reel combos made with quality material and components. You get diversity and smooth fishing —
Light, Powerful and Built to Conquer
You get 7 different spinning and casting combos to choose from in this series —4 spinning and 3 baitcaster. Whatever type of fishing you’re doing, there’s a set-up that fits.
Each rod and reel is forged with high-quality material and embedded with cutting-edge technology…
Each rod and reel combination is forged with high-quality material and embedded with cutting-edge technology. The reels are tough, with carbon-infused frames and the rods are made of KastFlex IM6 graphite.
All the reels in this series have powerful carbon drag systems and 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings.
The guides that run the length of the rod are also stainless-steel with Zirconium Oxide rings —which means they can handle big fish and have good braided line capacity.
These rod and reel combos have aluminum spools built for freshwater, saltwater and surf fishing. The rods range in length from 5 1/2 – 7 feet, with light to medium-heavy power.
RECOMMENDATION
If you want to sling lightweight lures for crappie or bass then the 2000 models will work. If you’re going after 15-pound-fish and beyond, roll with a heavier model and show them who’s boss.
Top Picks
Okay, now you know my top fishing rod and reel combos for the money.
Before we get into the detailed review of the top three.
I have one more set-up to dive into…
Added below is a rod and reel combo that came in a close runner-up to my top picks —
Cadence BC6 Baitcasting Combo
It comes packing 9 ball bearings and external adjustable magnetic breaks. That translates into super-smooth casting and big-time control over backlash.
Cadence BC6 Baitcasting Combo
Light, Powerful and in Control
So here’s another Cadence —but this time it’s a baitcasng rod and reel combo. It outshines its spinning cousin in a few different ways, plus it’s easy on the eyes.
It comes packing 9 ball bearings and external adjustable magnetic breaks. That translates into super-smooth casting and big-time control over backlash.
It’s made to be lightweight, strong and high-performance…
The BC6 reel boasts an aluminum crankshaft that’s 60% lighter than brass, plus a machined anodized aluminum spool with a tension knob. It’s made to be lightweight, strong and high-performance —for the most part it hits the mark.
You get a high gear ratio of 7.3:1 —which is one of the highest ratios among my top combo choices. If you’re into fishing over 100 feet deep in the ocean or deepwater jigging then this set-up is calling your name.
Limited Rod Length Options
On the downside, it’s similar to its cousin —the CC4— when it comes to rod lengths. There are just 2 options there —6 /12 and 7 feet. A little more variety would be nice, but to be fair these rod lengths will work on a wide array of fish.
Another gripe anglers have is that every rod model in this series is fast action —no variants. While having extra sensitivity is nice, a moderate-fast option for anglers that like a little more bend in the rod would’ve been nice.
A sweet upside to this combo is its carbon drag system with a 20-pound max drag. It outshines the CC4 by 4 pounds —which can be crucial if you’re going after stripers or big redfish.
NOTE
But before you buy —remember, they’re baitcasting rods. If you’re not already good at casting one there will be a learning curve and growing pains. But if you have the skill and patience to master it then you can make some wicked-accurate casts.
Go ahead, test the waters with the Cadence BC6 Baitcasting Combo.
Specs
- Rod Length — 6 1/2 – 7 feet
- Max Drag —20 pounds
- Gear Ratio —7.3:1
- Bearings —9
- Weight —1.5 – 2 pounds
- Retrieve side —R/L Full Specs
Pros
- Has 9 ball bearings
- Stainless steel guides
- External adjustable magnetic breaks
- Lightweight aluminum crankshaft
- Tension knob for accuracy
- High ratio of 7.3:1 for fast retrieve
- 20-pound max drag —slightly better than the CC4
Cons
- Not many rod length options
- All rods are fast action —no variants
- Can be hard to cast at first, and may take practice
Okay now it’s time to dive a little deeper into my top 3 picks, Here we go —
Best All-Rounder
PENN Battle II Spinning Combo
The Battle II comes in 9 models that cover a nice range of rod action, power and max drag. The best rod and reel combo, in my opinion, will span medium-fast to extra-fast action, and cover medium-light to heavy power.
PENN Battle II Spinning Combo
Impressive Technology for Any Size Fish
You can snag river bass, land mahimahi or battle tarpon with this spinning rod and reel combo. Its wide array of models gives you lots of options.
The Battle II comes in 9 models that cover a nice range of rod action, power and max drag. The fishing rods span medium-fast to extra-fast action, and cover medium-light to heavy power.
They’re made of graphite composite, so they can go through hell without cracking…
They’re made of graphite composite with a nice reel seat, so they can go through hell without cracking. You can battle bass, rout or ocean monsters with no worry.
The biggest model boasts a 30-pound max drag and a heavy-duty aluminum bail wire so it’s not scared of chunky stripers or reds. That’s a pretty high max drag compared to other reels, so score one for Penn.
On the Heavy Side
But on the other hand, compared to conventional reels, these reels aren’t lightweight —the smallest one weighs about 10 ounces and the biggest weighs about 2 pounds. So yeah, be prepared to haul a heavy set-up if you go big.
The 2000 – 4000 model reels have the highest gear ratio —6.2:1 They deliver a fast retrieve, which saves time and energy when you’re reeling from the bottom.
But the larger combo models have reels with lower gear ratios, which hurts when it comes to deepwater fishing. Also, the larger models have longer rods with a higher price tag.
Drag System and Bearing Count
The HT-100 drag system embedded in nearly every spinning reel is known for staying nice and smooth when a fish is running. Its gears are protected with a full-metal body and side plate and its Versa-Drag carbon fiber washers help reduce friction.
The bearing count is pretty average with 6, but it still has for a decently smooth cast and retrieve…
The bearing count is pretty average with 6, but it still has for a decently smooth cast and retrieve. If you like a higher bearing count, there are lots of reels out there with a higher number.
The rods boast 6 – 8 aluminum oxide guides —that’s tough material that won’t break under extreme pressure. It comes in handy when you’re setting the hook on a lunker bass.
Give this duo a try and catch something that will scare everyone on FB.
Specs
- Rod Length —6 1/2 – 10 feet
- Max Drag —9 – 30 pounds
- Gear Ratio —5.2:1 – 6.2:1
- Bearings —6
- Weight — 2 – 5 pounds
- Retrieve side —R/L Full Specs
Pros
- 9 models cover a wide range of power and action
- Versa-Drag carbon fiber washers
- 30-pound max drag
- HT-100 Drag System for reduced line friction
- Aluminum oxide guides
- Heavy-duty aluminum bail wire
- Some models have high ratio of 6.2:1
Cons
- Higher price tag on heavier models
- Average bearing count
- Some models have lower gear ratio
- Bigger models are pretty heavy compared to other combos
Best On a Budget
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
The “Elite” rod is pretty impressive —it has upgraded strength over its predecessor, the GX2. It’s stronger because it’s been reinforced with 35% more graphite to handle bigger fish like catfish, reds or trophy bass.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
A Killer Baitcasting Combo You Can Afford
Okay, I’m going to address the elephant in the room —this reel features 3 ball bearings. That’s a low number —yes —but if you’re on a budget this might be the best fishing rod and reel combo for the money.
The bearing count may not impress, but it casts well enough to deliver a decent performance and keep your aluminum spool backlash-free. Plus, it has adjustable magnetic cast control that helps with smoothness and accuracy.
The bearing count may not impress, but it casts well enough to deliver a decent performance and keep your spool backlash-free…
It has a high gear ratio of 6.2:1, which comes in handy if you’re doing a lot of reeling —this is especially useful for deepwater jigging or bottom-fishing. It has a max drag of 12 pounds, which is decent enough to help you tame a thrashing largemouth.
The “Elite” rod is pretty impressive —it has upgraded strength over its predecessor, the GX2. It’s stronger because it’s been reinforced with 35% more graphite to handle bigger fish like catfish, reds or trophy bass.
Limited Options
This rod comes in just 2 models, so there’s very little range of rod length and power. In fact, both models are 6 1/2 feet long and have medium-heavy power.
Even though it has semi-heavy power, it’s still a lightweight rod. This is because it’s made of a graphite/fiberglass composite that gives it strength and keeps it light.
TIP
This set-up can be used for freshwater and saltwater fishing, but keep in mind some of the components are not corrosion resistant. You’ll need to wash them thoroughly with regular water during, and after each saltwater use.
This medium-heavy rod has a strong backbone for wearing out fish, and a stiff top-end to deliver solid hook-sets. It also has Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides that won’t snap under pressure.
On the flip-side, this rod has an Ugly Stik Clear Tip that’s supposed to give the rod more sensitivity, but anglers say it’s hard to “feel” the fish on the line. But that’s no shock, seeing as how both models are medium-heavy power.
NOTE
In a nutshell it’s a good bass, catfishing and inshore saltwater combo. It’s perfect for running spinners by weed lines and deepwater jigging, and will get you on the water catching fish without breaking your wallet.
Give the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Rod And Reel Combo a chance a shot and see how you like it.
Specs
- Rod Length —6 1/2
- Max Drag —12 pounds
- Gear Ratio —6.2:1
- Bearings —3
- Weight — 1.4 pounds
- Retrieve side —R Full Specs
Pros
- Upgraded strength over the GX2 rod —35% more graphite
- Medium-heavy rod power for stout hook-sets
- Adjustable magnetic cast control
- Graphite composite makes it light and tough
- Ugly Tech Construction for Sensitivity
- One-piece stainless steel guides
- Nice gear ratio of 6.2:1
Cons
- Some components are not corrosion resistant
- Ugly Stik Clear Tip may not offer much sensitivity
- No options for different rod length, power or action
Editor’s Choice
KastKing Crixus Spinning and Casting Combos
All the reels in this series have a powerful carbon drag system plus 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. The guides are stainless-steel with zirconium oxide rings —so they’re ready for big fish and braided line.
KastKing Crixus Spinning and Casting Combos
The Best Fishing Combos of Both Worlds
KastKing knows anglers like variety, and it shows. From the best beginner baitcasting reels to more advanced options, they have you covered. This Crixius series gives you several spinning and casting combos —4 spinning and 3 baitcaster.
The spinners range in gear ratios from 4.5:1 to 5.2:1, while the baitcaster models have a 6.5:1 gear ratio. Basically, if you’re going be deep-water fishing then you may want to roll with the baitcasting rod.
All the reels in this series have a powerful carbon drag system plus 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings…
All the spinning reels in this series have a powerful carbon drag system plus 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings. The guides are stainless-steel with zirconium oxide rings —so they’re ready for big fish and braided line.
Each spinning rod is made of KastFlex IM6 graphite, so they can stand up to big fish. They range from 5 1/2 – 7 feet, with light to medium-heavy power.
These spinning rod and reel combos are built for freshwater and saltwater fishing, and have aluminum spools. If you want to sling lightweight lures for crappie or bass then the 2000 spinning reel models will work.
RECOMMENDATION
If you’re going after saltwater species over 15 pounds then roll with a heavier model. And no worries, the reels boast 17 1/2 pound max drag that’s capable of wearing out large fish.
One thing that concerns anglers is the reel’s aluminum spool and housing shape. It’s also reported that sometimes the bail closes by itself, plus there are open spaces in the housing. But so far no one has complained of water damage, so everything seems to be sealed quite well.
These spinning rod and reel combos range from moderate-fast to fast action, and light to medium-heavy power. That means they have decent sensitivity and can handle a thrashing lunker at the boat.
Try a Crixus Spinning or Casting Combo and see how it sweetens your fishing experience. Check out these baitcast combos if you’re looking for more options.
Specs
- Rod Length —5 1/2 – 7 feet
- Max Drag —17 1/2 pounds
- Gear Ratio —4.5:1 – 6.5:1
- Bearings —6
- Weight — 1.3 – 2.2 pounds
- Retrieve side —R/L Full Specs
Pros
- Carbon-infused frame and drag system
- Stout 17 1/2 max drag
- Spinning and baitcaster combos
- Kastflex IM-6 graphite rods
- Nice range of rod length
- Baitcaster models have an exceptional gear ratio
- Stainless steel guides with zirconium oxide inserts
Cons
- Some spinning models have low gear ratio
- Weird openings in spinning reel housing
- Bail tends to open by itself
What You Need to Know About Fishing Rods
What is the Best Rod Action?
Rod action is defined by how much the rod bends when you put pressure on the tip…
Rod action is defined by how much the rod bends when you put pressure on the tip. Anglers say rod action is a big factor in determining rod sensitivity —that’s basically how easily you feel vibrations in the rod. The best rod action is probably a matter of opinion and use case.
Rods have several different “actions” —
Fast and Extra-Fast Action Rods
These rods have stiff backbones and bend from the tip to about 1/3 of the way down the rod. Fast action rods are said to be the best rod to offer more sensitivity because all the action is in the tip —some anglers say you can feel every little bump and bite.
For that reason, lots of fishermen prefer them for ultralight fishing and plastic worms.
Medium action rods
Medium action rods bend from the tip to about the midway point of the rod. They’re a good blend of stiffness and flexibility, but are said to offer less sensitivity.
NOTE
These rods offer a good mix of casting power, strength and bend. They’re ideal for crank baits, spinner baits and trolling.They can also make a fish feel a little heavier on the line, which makes for a fun fight.
Slow Action Rods
Rods with a slow action start bending in the lower third of the rod, and bend all the way down to the base. These rods are said to be the least sensitive because they lack stiffness.
On the other hand, slower action rods can cast further because the extra bend allows them to load more energy. That means the lure can be released with more velocity, if you know what you’re doing.
The downside is that the bendiness makes it difficult to set the hook quickly.
Because the action is slow, reeling in a 5-pound largemouth may feel like battling a 10-pounder. These rods are also good for bass anglers as they allow switching up bass lure presentations like topwater plugs and poppers to catch more fish.
What is Rod Power?
The power of a rod is basically how much pressure it takes to make it bend. Lighter power rods are built for lighter-weight lures and fishing line, while heavier power rods are crafted for heavier lures and thicker fishing lines.
There are many different types of rod power —
- Heavy
- Medium-Heavy
- Medium-Light
- Light
- Ultralight
TIP
The type of power you roll with should depend on the kind of fishing you’ll be doing. For example, ultralight rods are good for snagging crappie or medium-size bass using ultralight lures.
But if you’re slinging a big crankbait going after tarpon, you’ll want something that can accommodate the size of the lure and fish. You’ll need the added stiffness of a heavier power to handle them.
What’s the Best Fishing Rod Length?
Longer Rods Offer Leverage and Let You Cast Further
The answer really depends on the type of fishing you plan on doing. For example, if you’re going after lake or striped bass you’ll want to use a rod that’s at least 7 feet long. Speaking of bass fishing, this in-depth Best Rod and Reel Combo for Bass Fishing review can save you from the hassle of matching rod and reels.
TIP
Using a longer rod lets you cast further in open water and gives you a little more leverage when the fish gets close to the boat.
Shorter Rods Give You Accuracy and Control
On the flip-side, if you want to hit the pond for some finesse fishing then a shorter rod works best. That’s because ultralight rods are ideal for finesse presentations —and ultralight rods are only about 5 – 6 feet long.
TIP
Using a shorter rod also helps you cast more accurately, which will come in handy when tossing ultralight lures into nooks and weed-edges.
Make Sure the Rod Has Strong Guide Loops
The guide-loops or “eyes” are the loops that run down the length of the rod. The fishing line runs through them, so they’re a big part of a rod’s strength and durability.
This is especially true for spinning rods, because the guides are on the bottom. That means more pressure is placed on them when you set the hook and reel in a fish.
Ideally, you want at least one guide loop per one foot of rod length to foster smooth casting…
Ideally, you want at least one guide loop per one foot of rod length to foster smooth casting. It also distributes weight equally along the rod to stop cracking or breaking.
NOTE
Keep in mind that spinning rods have fewer guides than casting rods. This is because the guides are wider on a spinning rod, and fewer are needed for smooth line flow.
What’s the Best Guide Loop Material?
Plastic or other weak materials are likely to break, so make sure you get a rod with aluminum guides. If you can find one with silicon carbon (SIC) or titanium carbide inserts, then even better.
These materials stand up to big fish and promote better line flow. All the combos on my list of best fishing combos have high quality “eyes”.
What’s the Best Fishing Rod Material?
When it comes to rods you have 3 main types of material —
Fiberglass
Fiberglass rods are typically less expensive and have the most bend. Due to its flexibility, lots of rods with slow action are made of fiberglass. These rods are good for ultralight and finesse fishing —not really built for hauling in monster fish.
Graphite
Graphite rods are the strongest out there, and are usually the most expensive. They’re good for battling big bass and saltwater species because they have a solid backbone and are stiffer than fiberglass.
Lots of fast-action rods are made of graphite, because the stiffness is said to increase rod sensitivity —but that comes at a slightly higher chance of snapping the pole.
Composite
Many rods today are made of a fiberglass/graphite composite. This splices the best of both worlds, giving you a mix of strength and flexibility.
Most composite rods are medium to medium-fast action, and good for catching a wide range of fish. These rods are more expensive than fiberglass, but cheaper than graphite.
Okay, enough about rods for now. That’s a lot to soak in, so let’s move on to the workhorse of the fishing combo —the reel.
What You Need to Know About Fishing Reels
What is the Best Gear Ratio?
Gear ratios aren’t as complicated as they might seem. It’s basically how many times the spool turns per rotation of the handle.
For example, if a reel’s gear ratio is 6.2:1, that means the spool turns 6.2 times per one full crank of the handle. As you can see, the ratio affects how fast the line is retrieved.
gear ratio affects how fast the line is retrieved…
That’s why high ratios are valued among saltwater anglers. When you’re fishing over 100 feet deep, a high retrieve rate saves a lot of time and energy.
Here’s a breakdown of reel gear ratios
A fishing reel with a 4:1 ratio is considered slow. Ideally, you want a fishing reel ratio of at least 5.0:1 —which is medium.
Reels with a ratio of at least 6:1 have more torque and are considered high-speed. So now you may be wondering if you need a low, medium or high speed retrieve. Again, it depends on the style of fishing you’re doing.
As mentioned, a 5:1 ratio works for most lures and presentations. That’s medium-speed, and pretty ideal for freshwater fishing. But remember, saltwater fishing or even surf fishing at great depths is best done with a high ratio reel.
How Important Are Ball Bearings?
The bearing count can affect how smooth the reel performs. However, there are mixed opinions among anglers just how much it matters.
What really matters is whether the bearings are made of high-quality material. For example — a spinner with four stainless steel bearings is better than a reel with fifteen chrome-steel bearings.
What really matters is whether the bearings are made of high-quality material…
That’s because stainless steel stands is more corrosion resistant than chrome-steel. At some point —likely sooner than later— the chrome-steel bearings will rust and be pretty much worthless.
The best reels come with a decent number of bearings made from stainless steel or ceramic material. Both tend to last a long time and allow reels to perform at a high level.
Another crucial factor is whether or not the bearings are well-protected…
Another crucial factor is whether or not the bearings are well-protected. Make sure your reel has some type of quality seal-technology that protects them —especially if you’re into saltwater fishing.
NOTE
Reels with high bearing counts tend to be more expensive, so if you’re on a tight budget keep that in mind. But the general rule of thumb when it comes to bearings is quality over quantity.
What’s the Best Drag System for a Fishing Combo?
A drag system allows the fish to pull line from the spool to avoid line breakage and backlash —so yes, it’s a very important part of a reel.
If you’re fishing for monsters like swordfish or tarpon, then it’s even more crucial.
When it comes to drag systems, the most important thing is quality components…
When it comes to drag systems, the most important thing is quality components. If the parts are cheap, then the drag will burn out pretty fast. If the reel has good drag technology, then you will fair much better.
Heat caused by line friction can do a number on cheap drags, so you want to make sure your reel has a drag that combats friction. Carbon fiber drag washers and can go a long way in helping your drag’s performance.
Okay, I think you’ve got a good idea of what makes high quality fishing gear and a good rod and reel combo. Now let’s have a quick recap of the top three picks
Well, as Bug Bunny loved to say…”That’s all folks!” Well, not really – but almost.
Before I leave you to ponder all the facts and advice about fishing combos, here’s a recap of my top fishing combos…
Best All-Rounder
This set-up is built to snag all types of freshwater and saltwater fish species and gives you lots of options. The Battle II combos cover a nice range of action, power and max drag.
The medium-fast, fast and extra-fast rod action offers good rod sensitivity and you get a range of 9 – 30 pounds of max drag.
Each spinning reel is embedded with a HT-100 drag system known for staying smooth under pressure.The rods have 6 – 8 aluminum oxide guides for battling big fish species and achieving solid hook-sets.
Best on a Budget
The “Elite” rod has upgraded strength over the GX2 with 35% more graphite. Its extra rod power gives it more backbone and its stiff top-end helps with hook-sets.
There’s just 3 ball bearings, but it has a high ratio of 6.2:1, which comes gives you a fast line retrieve.
This set-up isn’t for finesse fishing — it’s a good bass, catfishing and inshore saltwater combo perfect for running spinners by weed lines and deepwater jigging.
Editor’s Choice
You get 7 different combos — 4 spinning and 3 baitcasting. There’s a model for whatever type of fishing you’re doing.
The reel quality is great and they are tough, with carbon-infused frames and the rods are made of KastFlex IM6 graphite.
All the reels in this series have powerful carbon drag systems and 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings.
The rods range in length from 5 1/2 – 7 feet, with light to medium-heavy power. If you’re going after 15 pound fish and beyond, this combo can give you the grit to pull one on the boat.
Wrapping Things Up
Well my fishing friends, it’s officially time for me to go away for a while and let this article soak in. Hopefully, it will help you find the best fishing rod and reel combo for the money. If you happened to fall in love with one of my favorites, that’d be even more awesome.
But If you’re still looking for other combos, why not check out these surf fishing combos, they’re tough and built to handle the surf.
Until next time, hit the water as much as possible and enjoy yourself. And remember, if you happened to catch a nice fish using one of the suggested fishing combos then send us a pic and we’ll post it on the site.
