Fishing is easy. Choosing gear is difficult. You can bypass the difficult part by purchasing the best rod and reel combo, which will make sure that neither the reel nor the rod is too heavy for the other. This is important for three significant reasons.
A reel that is too light or too heavy for your rod would make the entire setup uncomfortable to use. The lack of balance between the rod and the reel won’t let you cast much far, either. And since you’d already have so much tension on your hands, you won’t be able to detect bites.
The best rod and reel combos solve these problems by accepting the same diameter and strength of line and casting the same bait or weight lure. Picking them enables you to avoid a lot of frustration when you’re out on the water. Read on to check out the ten best rod and reel combos in 2021.
Table of Contents
Tips for Buying Rod and Reel Combo
- Rod Material
You have two options: graphite and fiberglass. Graphite is popular for catching freshwater species like bass, panfish, and even walleye. It’s strong, stiff, and lightweight. This makes it an excellent candidate for detecting lighter strikes. Fiberglass deserves your attention if you want slow or medium action. Its tip has more ‘give’ and so the fish has more opportunity to eat the lure. - Reel Type
You again have two choices: conventional reels and spinning reels. Conventional reels come in handy for baitcasting, trolling, and bluewater fishing. Their line weight ranges between 10lbs (for baitcasting) and 130lbs (for massive species). Spinning reels, meanwhile, have line weights as low as 4lbs. They are mainly used for catching lighter lures. - Fishing Location
Where you’ll be fishing will determine the weight of your combo and whether you’d need the combo to have some sort of corrosion protection or not. For instance, if you’re casting for trout, a lighter setup will be more than enough. However, if you’re going after a kingfish, you’ll need a much heavier combo. And if you’re going to fish in saltwater, corrosion protection is a must.
Top 15 Rod and Reel Combo Reviews
1. Lew’s Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Combo
Pros:
✅ Rugged graphite frame
✅ Double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings
✅ Externally adjustable magnetic control system (MCS)
Cons:
⛔ Has lots of plastic parts
Outstanding Features:
The Lew’s Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Combo is lightweight yet strong. The combination of graphite frame, anodized aluminum spool, and brass speed gears enables it to withstand abuse for long periods. Its double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings can also keep going for years.
Weighing 0.79 kilograms, the reel’s 7.2:1 gear ratio enables it to offer super-fast retrieval rate. Multiple ball bearings add smoothness, while you also get the best chance of landing your fish with the zero-reverse clutch bearing. Plus, the fully-adjustable drag system offers up to 15lbs of drag power.
The Dri-Tac knobs on the anodized aluminum handle are designed for extreme comfort. The rod, meanwhile, boasts stainless steel guides, dry polymer grips for excellent control, and Lew’s patented professional style hook keeper. What’s more, you also get a 1-year warranty with this combo.
Construction & Design:
The Lew’s Mach 2 is a baitcast reel. It features a graphite frame, anodized aluminum spool, and stainless steel ball bearings and guides. The handle on this combo are encapsulated by Dric-Tac polymer knobs for added control, even with wet hands.
2. Penn Pursuit III & Pursuit IV Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Affordably priced
✅ Ultra-lightweight graphite body
✅ Corrosion-resistant frame
Cons:
⛔ Might be difficult to use for beginners
Outstanding Features:
Available in two styles – Pursuit III and Pursuit IV – this product comes with all the features expert anglers need to increase their casting accuracy. It packs a 7’ heavy rod made of heavy-duty graphite for added sensitivity and structural strength, making sure you can detect the slightest of bites.
The rod also comes with a stainless steel guide to let you cast a tangle-free line. Aluminum oxide inserts provide added support for prey that won’t go down without a fight. They also make the rod more durable. An EVA foregrip and graphite reel seat offers control as well as comfort.
Together with the pinion gear and machined brass main, the HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers deliver heavy-duty power. Keep in mind that this combo comes in four rod powers (medium-light, medium, medium-heavy, heavy), two-rod handle types (split, full), and two rod lengths (7’ and 10’).
Construction & Design:
The Penn Pursuit III & Pursuit IV combo has a graphite body, 4+1 stainless steel ball bearing system and EVA grips on the handle. Throw into the mix its HT-100 drag system and corrosion-resistant interior, and this model becomes a must-have for saltwater fishing.
3. Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Baitcast Combo
Pros:
✅ Lets you control big fish
✅ Magnetic brakes reduce backlashing
✅ Comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons:
⛔ Complaints about pole arriving damaged
Outstanding Features
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee is one of the few rod and reel combos available in both left- and right-handed configurations. Its machined aluminum spool can take severe beatings for years without breaking apart, plus the advanced Dri-Tac polymer grips provide extreme grip.
The combo’s drag provides all the smooth tension you need to catch the biggest largemouth. The gear ratio of 6.4:1 means you’ll have awe-inspiring torque as well as power to waste. Casting is excellent, too, and we were surprised (in a good way) to note how the magnetic brakes reduced backlashing.
Abu Garcia has paired the reel with a 7-foot graphite cord. This is a good decision. The entire setup is light in the hand and is sensitive enough to let you feel the lightest of bites. And with 5 stainless steel ball bearings, you should have no problem luring in most large-sized fish.
Construction & Design
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee has a stiff yet lightweight one-piece graphite frame. It features a stainless steel guide, machined aluminum spool, and graphite side plates. You also get a Duragear™ brass gear and MagTrax™ brake system.
4. Zebco Omega Pro Spincast Combo
Pros:
✅ Ultra-smooth casting
✅ Lightning-quick line retrieval
✅ Easy to store and transport
Cons:
⛔ Manufacturer takes time to deliver it to your doorstep
Outstanding Features
The Zebco Omega Pro deserves the attention of beginners on a budget. Its pistol grip is designed such that you can grab it for one-handed casting. Unlike most other combos on this review, the Zebco Omega Pro has a 2-piece construction. One that makes it convenient for storage and transportation.
Its line management system has been updated to ensure more accurate casting and quicker line retrieval, assisted by a sturdy ball bearing. You won’t have to worry about losing tension on the line, thanks in no small measure to the anti-reverse function, while the 3.4:1 gear ratio is ideal for high-resistance lures.
Other combo highlighted include the built-in hook holder, the changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and the fact that this model comes pre-spooled. You read that right. This combo comes pre-spooled with a 10lb Zebco line.
Construction and Design
The Zebco Omega Pro has a 2-piece IM7 graphite frame. It also boasts aluminum oxide guides, an oscillating quick-change spool and an anti-reverse clutch. You further get 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings and a solid-brass pinion gear.
5. Orvis Encounter Fly Outfit
Pros:
✅ Has a beginner-friendly operation
✅ Long-lasting construction
✅ Has everything in the package
Cons:
⛔ Doesn’t come with Orvis’s 25-year warranty
Outstanding Features:
The Orvis Encounter’s availability in different weight sizes makes it ideal for different kinds of fish. It’s available in a 5-weight size – ideal for trout – and in 8-weight size for any angler looking to catch bigger species like pike, bass and walleye.
Sure, this rod and reel combo doesn’t come cheap, but it does well to justify the higher asking price by offering both right- and left-handed retrieves. It comes in 4 sections, all of which can easily be put together before fishing. All 4 parts are as easy to disassemble for convenient transportation and storage.
Beginners have yet another reason to go for the Encounter. Moderate stiffness in the lower half balances the flexible tip, helping newbies maintain good line accuracy and control in all type of fishing conditions. You’ll notice that the action won’t end up tiring the angler.
Construction and Design:
The Orvis Encounter’s frame is made from graphite material. Its anodized seat comes preloaded with fly line, backing and leader. Keep in mind, though, that the drag isn’t sealed from either side. You’d thus need to clean it thoroughly after saltwater use.
6. Okuma Tundra Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Massive drag rating
✅ Extra comfortable handling
✅ Has fully-sealed bearings
Cons:
⛔ Gear isn’t sealed
Outstanding Features:
Okuma reels are known for being simple yet powerful, and the Tundra isn’t any different. The fact that this model is a bit bigger than other reels with similar line ratings allows it to hold a lot of line. This means you can count on it to perform admirably in surf or deeper depths (60 feet +).
The Tundra offers the highest drag rating (44 pounds) of all the reels that we tested (we got around 40 pounds on the sale while testing it). We don’t think any human could handle more than forty four pounds, or at least any human who doesn’t possess superhuman powers.
Okuma has also equipped this rod and reel combo with its Dual-Force Drag System. One that has two sets of washers, a single washer at the bottom of the spool and another, multiple washers in the top. Both the drags work against each other, giving this reel its powerful drag rating.
Construction and Design:
The Okuma Tundra has an ultra-durable glass fiber rod blank construction. It’s available in 2- and 3-pieces construction, depending on the length ordered. Reinforced double-footed guides, durable ceramic guide inserts and stainless steel hooded reel seats add more years to its life.
7. Ugly Stik Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Seven-year warranty
✅ Has a seriously tough rod
✅ Has sensitivity needed to detect subtle strikes
Cons:
⛔ Reel could have been sturdier
Outstanding Features:
Nothing about the features of this spinning reel and reel combo can be described as ugly. Available in four versions – ultra-light, medium, medium-heavy, heavy – it boasts a one-piece durable construction. Its line rating and size depend on the fish you’re targeting.
If you’re targeting small trout and panfish, go for ultra-light or UL. Medium or M comes in handy for fish weighing less than 10 pounds; medium heavy or MH for fish weighing between 10 and 25 pounds; and heavy or H for big species beyond that.
Compared with the Ugly Stik GX2, this model’s latest iteration, it has more fiberglass and less graphite. It’s a seriously tough rod – a fact you can verify by looking at its market-high seven-year warranty (compared with the one-year warranty offered by most of its competitors).
Construction and Design:
The Ugly Stick Spinning Combo boasts a graphite-and-fiberglass construction. The presence of graphite helps it retain the stiffness Ugly rods are famous for. Fiberglass, meanwhile, provides sensitivity needed to detect subtler strikes and lighter catches.
8. KastKing Centron Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Lets you go after small- and large-sized fish
✅ Has a sturdy IM6 graphite body
✅ Exceptionally smooth casting
Cons:
⛔ Doesn’t come with many instructions
Outstanding Features:
Weighing 9 ounces and offering a maximum drag of 12 pounds, the KastKing Centron has managed to combine lightweight construction with considerable force. Its reel picks up 24.4 inches of line with each crank which, while no speed monster, is pretty good for the price.
The KastKing Centron is available in two size ranges. The smaller, 7-foot version is intended to serve as a crappie, bass and other smaller catch setup. A larger 8-foot model is intended for catfishing, steelhead, and other bigger game fish species.
This combo also gives you various reel options, ranging from a smaller 2000 size to all the way up to a mighty 5000, which is ideal for anyone brave enough to go after those massive freshwater trophy fish. You also get two gear ratios (5.2:1; 4.5:1) and 9+1 Max-Dur ball bearings with this combo.
Construction and Design:
The KastKing Centron Combo has a lightweight, 2-piece graphite body. It has stainless steel guides with O Rings to help it work easily with mono as well as braided lines. Contoured EVA handles and ABS plastic but provide comfort needed for all-day angling.
9. PLUSINNO Combo
Pros:
✅ Folds down for compact storage
✅ Smooth casting and quick line retrieval
✅ Non-slip EVA foam grip for comfort
Cons:
⛔ Tip isn’t that sensitive
Outstanding Features:
Why should you invest in the Plusinno Fishing Rod? Start with the fact that it folds. This combo easily folds down to 17-inches long, about 3-inches tall and 6-inches wide. This makes it super-easy to tuck in a big that is included in this combo’s package.
Not only that, it’s easy to use too. The reel’s 8 ball bearings, among the highest of any model in this review, helps you cast long and smooth. Its non-slip EVA handle is made to enhance your grip while the ceramic inserts and stainless steel guides help it offer a frictionless casting experience.
Construction and Design:
The Plusinno Fishing Rod is made with the reliable IM6 Carbon Matrix Technology. That’s the only major difference its construction has from other products in this review. Its non-slip EVA handle, stainless steel guides and ceramic inserts are similarities it shares with its counterparts.
10. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Seven year warranty
✅ Exceptionally strong rod
✅ Comes fitted with 1-pc stainless steel guides
Cons:
⛔ Not ideal for manipulating lures
Outstanding Features:
Where to start? The Ugly Stik GX2 has so many exciting features that it’s difficult to omit any for the necessity of being concise. Compared with the original Ugly Stik, that made its debut in 1976, this model has more fiberglass (for added sensitivity) and less graphite (for better handling of heavier fish).
Aside from that, the GX2 is the only combi in its price category that offers one-piece stainless steel guides, the ones you can smash against the wall and they would still remain serviceable. Still, if worst comes to worse, send a photographic evidence of the damage to claim the market-high seven-year warranty.
Construction and Design:
The Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 has a balanced yet strong graphite and fiberglass construction. It further boasts stainless steel guides, an exceptionally sturdy rod and EVA handle grips.
11. Penn Squall Lever Drag Combo
Pros:
✅ Weighs less than 2kgs
✅ Drag stays consistent throughout
✅ Fully sealed stainless steel gear system
Cons:
⛔ Complaints about poor shipping
Outstanding Features:
Penn is among one of the most popular brands for deep sea fishing. Products like the Pen Squall Lever Drag Combo are the reason why. This combo offers a lightweight lever drag reel that is as great for trolling as it is for bottom fishing and drift fishing.
Unlike the majority of drag star reels, the level drag stays consistent throughout. You won’t have to worry about it coming loose midway. The usage of graphite in making the rod has made it corrosion-resistant, while the stainless steel gear system is sealed to prevent the ingress of elements.
Construction and Design:
The Pen Squall Lever Drag Combo has a graphite rod. It has 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings, a machined aluminum spool with multiple capacity rings and stainless steel main and pinion gears. A Dual-Drag system and graphite sideplates complete the lineup.
12. Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo
Pros:
✅ All-in-one package
✅ Adjustable disc drag
✅ Metal drag components
Cons:
⛔ Quality of leaders is suspect
Outstanding Features:
The Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo offers a good deal to anyone learning the ropes of this type of fishing. Its package include all the items you’d need out on the sea, including a fly rod and reel, a carrying case, snips, line, lanyard, and a set of flies, all for a remarkably competitive price.
This combo offers two types of rods. The lighter type are favorable for catching river-dwelling species that can be found near the water surface. However, if you are aiming to go after the bigger fish like salmon, the higher weight rods might be a better fit for you.
On top of everything else, this combo features an adjustable disc drag. It allows you to set the right drag level based on the type of the fish you’re aiming to catch.
Construction and Design:
The Wild Water Fly Fishing Combo’s rod is constructed of rugged IM8 graphite. The rod features stainless steel foot guides, silicon carbide rings and stainless steel stripper guides. The reel is machined aluminum with a laser-etched butt cap for easy grip and double-lock rings.
atch. Plus, you can easily change its reel from left to right, or vice versa.
13. Daiwa D-Wave Spinning Combo
Pros:
✅ Sturdy yet sensitive
✅ Handles small strippers effortlessly
✅ 2-piece construction for easier storage and transport
Cons:
⛔ Not for experienced anglers
Outstanding Features:
The Daiwa D-Wave is more durable and versatile than most combos in this price range. Its 1500 – 2500 models are perfect for small trout streams, though they can also take care of spotted sea trout and flounder in light inshore fishing, while the larger models can handle large inshore species.
Compared with other models in this price range – like the Penn Squall – the D-Wave has a more durable rotor. The springs upholding the integrity of its anti-reverse clutch are much stronger, too. More importantly, the springs are the same you get in Daiwa’s pricier models.
Construction and Design:
The Daiwa D-Wave has a 2-piece fiberglass rod, stainless steel ball bearing that aren’t sealed from either side. This allows us to air our only complaint about this model. With a design that isn’t fully sealed, expect water to drain through this combo’s reel.
14. KastKing Crixus Baitcasting Combo
Pros:
✅ Slip-resistant super-polymer handle
✅ 2 piece rod construction for compact storage
✅ Double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings
Cons:
⛔ Drag has no noticeable clicking sound
Outstanding Features:
The KastKing Crixus is available in spinning and baitcasting versions. Its double-shielded stainless steel ball bearing means you can use this combo in saltwater situations. The power ratings of this combo range from light to medium-heavy, meaning it will help you catch fish from panfish to hybrid striped bass.
Similar to other Crixus spinning and baitcasting combos, this one too boasts two piece construction for effortless storage and transportation. However, while it’s 2-piece, the unique Power Transition system will ensure no wastage of power to help the rod perform like its one-piece counterparts.
Construction and Design:
The KastKing Crixus has a golf-style super polymer handle. Even in the wettest conditions and for extended periods, the handle will provide you with comfortable and secure grip. It has 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings. All of them are shielded from both sides to resist the build-up of corrosion. The combination of IM6 graphite rods, CNC aluminum spools and stainless steel guides further add to its durability.
15. ODDSPRO Kids Combo Kit
Pros:
✅ Easy to use for kids
✅ Includes multiple items in the package
✅ Portable and easy to carry
Cons:
⛔ Has lots of plastic parts
Outstanding Features:
Available in two colors and six sizes, this kids combo kit has everything your little one would need to keep using it for long periods. It has specialized EVA grips for small hands and is lightweight enough to not strain the arms of your little one, even if they use this combo from dusk till dawn.
At the same time, this model is easy to use. All your kid has to do is to press the button and hold it down for the cast to release. Also, if you’re worried that your kid will let the line release too soon, ask them to keep the button pressed. This will keep the line locked until they let go of the button.
Another exciting thing about this combo is that comes with all the items you need to make your little one fall in love with fishing. They include a selection of crankbaits, soft lures, jig heads, float bobbers, sinkers and swivels. A carry bag with enough space to store all these items is offered, too.
Construction and Design:
Given that this is a kids combo kit, it wasn’t surprising for us to note that both the rod and the reel have plenty of plastic. A temperature-resistant epoxy coating has been applied over the plastic to keep it going for long periods, with a soft EVA handle ensuring easy gripping.
What is a Fishing Reel and Rod Combo?
The name is quite self-explanatory as this combo includes both fishing reel and rod in a single package.
A fishing rod is a long pole or stick that is a vital piece of every angler’s gear. You attach this rod to a line that has a hook on the end. It depends on your fishing style or the type of fish you are aiming to catch, but a rod can be as short as two feet, or as long as 20 feet.
Rods are usually made of various materials, including but not limited to carbon fiber and fiberglass. They are flexible and suitable for both recreational and competitive fishing.
As for the fishing reel, it is a device that you connect to the rod. It winds and stows the fishing line, which is why it is also an essential piece of an angler’s equipment. You can find many reels with modern additions that assist in casting to achieve optimal accuracy and distance.
Rod and Reel Combo Buying Guide
Do you want to know more about rod and reel combos? If the answer is yes, please take a look at our buying guide to discover more details about this product.
The Considerations to Buy The Best Rod and Reel Combo
Let’s take a look at questions you should ask during the process to ensure you make the right choice when buying a rod and reel combo. An ultimate guide for fishing reel types might give you an in-depth look about that equipment piece, but our goal is to offer crucial information on how to choose the ideal rod and reel that meets your expectations.
Do You Need a Fast or Slow Action Rod?
If you are not aware of the difference between the two at the moment, you shouldn’t worry because we will explain everything in a moment.When you say action, you are thinking about the point where the rod starts bending after someone (fish, user) applies pressure on its end. Slow-action rods will bend in the direction of the base while others will move toward the tip. The thickness of the rod can also influence the bending process.
A fast-action rod has increased sensitivity, and you can pull the rod quickly to place the hook. They accelerate the process and are suitable for those looking for high-paced fishing action.
On the other hand, slow-action rods are more suitable if you want to achieve maximum casting distance.Is the Rod Responsive?
Here is another question related to the rod, and one that can be very important depending on your fishing preference and skills.
When we are talking responsiveness, we are thinking of flexibility. It describes how much time the rod takes for releasing energy and getting back into position.
Two things affect responsiveness – the weight of the rod and the material used for making it. The general rule is that light rods are more responsive, but you should also make an optimal choice depending on the type of fishing you plan to perform, and the fish you want to catch.
Why Are Ball Bearings Important for a Fishing Reel?
We will answer this question so that you will be aware of why you should pay attention to this information in the product’s description. It is quite simple – a higher number of ball bearings make the reel smoother.
The majority of reels will use balls made of stainless steel, and they should be a fairly durable choice. When it comes to the number you should aim for, two is a bare minimum that can do an adequate job, but if you have the chance, always go for a reel that has at least four ball bearings.
The Type of Fishing You Plan to Carry Out
Fishing is an activity that can always provide something new for a dedicated fisherman. The challenges often come from a broad spectrum of fishing types and techniques you can apply to stir things up when necessary.
The two basic types of fishing are:- Saltwater fishing
- Freshwater fishing
The names are quite self-explanatory, so let’s take a look at different fishing types you can carry out in salt or fresh water.
Deep Sea Fishing
It is a type of saltwater fishing that involves heading to the sea with your boat and casting your rod into deep water. While it may not be the best choice for beginners who have never had any angling experience, deep-sea fishing can be incredibly exciting, and you can catch some large fish this way. If you want to take things one step further, you can take your boat into the ocean and fish there.
Surf Fishing
In this fishing approach, you stand on the shoreline and cast your bait or lure into the surf. Surf is the bubbly and foamy surface water that is brought close to the shore by the ocean waves. The majority of surf fishing is done in salt water for obvious reasons, although you may find a couple of exceptions from this rule around the world.
Lake and Pond Fishing
This is a type of freshwater fishing that may be the most suitable for those who prefer to stay on the land. The chances are you will find plenty of fish in every lake, and you can even head to a reservoir as long as fishing is allowed there.
If you are still a beginner that wants to practice, you might want to try fishing in a pond first. Their suitability for newbies lies in the fact that they are smaller environments than lakes.River and Stream Fishing
When it comes to freshwater fishing, you may consider this a challenge, although it depends on the stream or river that you choose.
Some rivers are large and may require a boat to reach the best place to cast your lure or bait. On the other hand, streams are challenging because you will often encounter current, which can make catching fish tricky.
The Size and Type of Fish you Are Targeting
Apart from the fishing type that attracts you the most, you can also choose the desired location based on the size and type of fish you want to catch.
Some Types of Saltwater Fishes
- Mahi-mahi – a saltwater fish that you can find in open oceans, but also coastal areas. It is a predator that also has impressive looks, and you can easily recognize it by its different colors.
- Tuna – the exciting thing about tuna is that it has “warmblood.” The temperature of its body is often higher than the water around it.
- Amberjack – you can easily recognize it for its long body and a forked tail. You can find them in the Pacific or Atlantic oceans.
Some Types of Freshwater Fishes
- Bluegill – an excellent choice for beginners because they are attracted to different baits.
- Walleye – here is an interesting thing about it – it has a huge mouth with canine-like teeth. If you are want to catch perch that are a challenge, go for a walleye.
- Trout – you can catch different types of trouts, including a rainbow, cutthroat, or brook trout.
Fishes You Can Catch in Both Saltwater and Freshwater Environment
- Bass – if you are hunting for largemouth or yellow bass, find a suitable freshwater location. You can also find some basses in the sea, but that doesn’t happen that often. It is interesting that basses vary from one to 120 or more pounds depending on the type you are pursuing.
- Catfish – a hardhead catfish solely grows in salt waters, but other types of catfish can be found in slow-moving and deep freshwater.
- Salmon – anglers in the USA often go for salmon during their fishing trips. You can find them in rivers where they are spawning, but they often head to oceans, too.
Make sure to check what types of fish are expecting you in the location you plan to visit. It will enable you to prepare the right gear accordingly.
What Kind of Reel Do You Want?
The dilemma people often have is that they are not sure who is the winner in the comparison of baitcaster and spinning reel. The truth is that each reel can be great as long as it meets the angler’s expectations. That is why it is crucial to consider what kind of reel do you want.
A baitcaster is an excellent choice for those who have some fishing experience. However, if you are only starting your angling adventure, perhaps you may be better off with a spincast or spinning reel. Let’s find out a bit more about these types.
Spincast Reel
If you are a beginner, the chances are you won’t go wrong with this option. Most of these reels come with a mechanism that is easy to control, and you will learn how everything works in a couple of minutes.
In the last several years, the manufacturers even improved the drag of spincast reels, which used to be a problem for many anglers. Today, an adjustable drag feature is a normal addition to this equipment peace.
Ultimately, the durability and quality vary from one unit to another, but as long as you make a smart choice, a spincast reel will be a long-term investment.Spinning Reel
The great thing about spinning reels is that they are incredibly versatile. They are also dependable and smooth, which is the reason why you will find many professional anglers using them. If you want to perform a cast, all you need to do is to release the line by flipping up the bail wire.
The bail feature makes the entire process more manageable and, once you get used to how it works, it will be a piece of cake to catch different fishing types.
If you are not aware of the difference between the two at the moment, you shouldn’t worry because we will explain everything in a moment.Most Important Rod & Reel Combo Features and Specifications
It is important to tailor the choice of your rod and reel combo to your preference, but you should know a thing or two about this product’s features if you want to make the right selection. With that in mind, here are some critical specifications to consider during the purchasing process.
Fishing Rod: Features to Consider
Power
Each rod will have a power rating, which may vary from light to heavy, as well as have some in-between description. It is an important feature because it is in charge of giving the lifting strength to the rod.
It is vital to know what is the rod’s weight as you want to ensure it matches the line’s weight. You don’t want the rod to snap the line or the line damaging the rod.
When choosing the desired rod power, consider the type of fishing you plan to carry out and pick accordingly.Guides
You should aim for high-quality guides because they will increase the overall longevity of your unit. If you choose guides made of top material, they can provide admirable corrosion resistance.
Silicon carbide may be a smart material choice for the guides. However, you can also choose titanium or any other material as long as you are sure that it can resist corrosion. Pay special attention to the quality of the guides if you are fishing in saltwater.
Fishing Reels: Features to Consider
Drag System
A drag system is vital to ensure that the entire process of casting and winding the line goes smoothly. You have two options when it comes to drag systems:
- Star drags – you will find a knob in the shape of a start that you can use to adjust the resistance.
- Lever drags – unlike start drags, you operate this by holding a button or bar.
Lever drags can be a bit more expensive, but in most cases, they are also more precise, which can play a vital role to ensure an optimal cast.
Gear Ratios
If you know a thing or two about bikes and cars, you also know the basics of gears that can be found in a fishing reel. The idea is simple – if you need power, you will get it in a low gear. However, if you are looking for speed, you should aim for a model with additional gears available.
Reels have a gear ratio, which presents a number of revolutions that the internal gears have to make for a single revolution of the hand crank. In most cases, you will find ratios between 2:1 and 6:1, although there are reels that offer higher speeds, too. Consider your preference and how you plan to use the reel and choose accordingly.
Benefits of Buying Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners
It is not easy to make a decision whether you should buy rod and reel together, or purchase them separately. It is why we tried to make a list of benefits that you could expect from choosing to buy a combo:
- They will be a great match – veteran anglers know that rods and reels are often a bad combination, which can compromise your fishing experience. That is not something you should worry about if you go with a combo product as the manufacturer already found an excellent match for you.
- A fantastic option for beginners – as a newbie, you may not have the knowledge or skills to go too deep when it comes to choosing your angling equipment. A fishing rod and reel combo will ensure gear that you can rely on upon without having to overthink.
- Saves time and effort – instead of searching for two products that fit your needs, you will be searching for only one.
Some other fishing equipments that the beginners will need include fishing sinkers, cork or plastic bobber, a nail clipper or plier, bucket, tackle box, fishing sinkers.
FAQ
- Q: What Fishing Gear Should Every Beginner Have?
Fishing is both exciting and relaxing and, once you start with this activity, you can quickly become addicted to it. However, it does take some time to learn the basics of this activity. We are not talking only about catching the biggest fish. Although that feeling is great, the primary focus should be on maximizing your experience and having a good time.That is why you should always ensure to have the right fishing gear with you. Let’s take a look at what pieces of equipment a beginner should always have:- License – many states and countries require a fishing license. Make sure to check with the local regulations and be certain that you comply with all the laws.
- Reel and rod – this article may help you in choosing the right ones.
- Hook – the size may vary, but the recommended one for beginners is between six and ten.
- Line – a high-quality line is essential to boost the chances of making a catch.
- Lures and baits – you can choose artificial lures or go with live baits, and it depends on the fish type and your preference.
- Q: Why should I buy a rod and reel combo?
A: It is a smart choice if you want to save some money and time in the process, as well as to make sure that the rod and reel fit well with each other. - Q: Should I choose a reputable brand when buying a rod and reel?
A: Yes, choosing a reputable brand is always a smart way to go because you increase the chances of getting an original and high-quality product. - Q: What materials are used to make fishing rods?
A: In most cases, you will encounter carbon fiber or fiberglass materials. However, modern composite, graphite, and titanium can also be an option for some users and manufacturers.
Wrap Up
It may be a wise choice to buy a rod and reel together. Especially if you are a newbie and you do not know a lot about fishing equipment. We hope that our buying guide managed to improve your knowledge and answer the burning questions you had about this product.
Do you already know what the best rod and reel combo that suits your needs is? Make sure to keep in mind that it is not always about buying the most expensive product. You should strive for one that can meet your expectations.
Our rod and reel combo reviews might be able to help you with choosing the most suitable package for your next fishing trip. When selecting the desired combo, make sure to consider the preferred fishing approach you use and the types of fish you want to catch.
