Finding the best bass fishing rod and reel combos can be a tough task. There are hundreds under your budget. People usually do not have time to test each one of them and simply rely on online reviews or word-of-mouth.
When I got started fishing, I googled how to choose the best fishing rod and reel combos. There were bulk of resources on this topic. But they were from many years ago so much has changed in the world of fishing rod and reel combos.
Things are quite different now and I had to learn about it myself by making mistakes and asking for advice. So I thought it could be very helpful for you guys if I share my own experiences about the bass fishing rod and reel combos.
Table of Contents
Our 10 Best Bass Fishing Rod And Reel Combos List
- Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Fishing Reel and Rod combo
- PENN Pursuit III & Pursuit IV Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Zebco Roam Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Pflueger Trion Spinning Combo
- Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Quantum Strategy Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2 Piece Fishing Rod Combo
- Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6 feet low profile fishing rod and reel combo
- Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Lew’s Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Combo
Let’s learn about those in detail so that you can get the right one for you. By this time, if you thought of anyone from the list above, you can redirect to that one using the table of contents. We value your time.
1. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Fishing Reel and Rod combo
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (20-40) |
Rod Size | Different size available (4'6"-7') |
Material | Stainless steel, Aluminum, Graphite & other |
Fishing Technique | spinning |
Number of pieces | Depends on combo |
Ugly Stik GX2 spinning rod and reel combo is a great choice for beginners and experts alike. The Ugly Stik GX2 is a two piece rod construction with 6 feet medium spinning combo that has been designed for fishing largemouth bass in lakes, ponds, reservoirs and rivers. But it has different size combos of single piece also.
This rod has the perfect action for light line fishing applications such as streamers, jigs and small soft plastics like grubs or worms.
The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod features three ball bearings plus one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing for smoother gear feel and instant hook sets.
The Machined double anodized aluminum spool features oversized bail wire for improved durability along with compression bail springs to increase reel life span.
This angler friendly combo also includes 6 feet Medium Spinning Combo that has been rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon by over 3600 plus reviewers!
If you are a beginner and have a very few fishing experience, you can go with this Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod. Your decision will not be a frustrating one I promise.
2. PENN Pursuit III & Pursuit IV Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (25-80) |
Rod Size | Different size available (6'6"-10') |
Material | Graphite Composite, Aluminum, etc. |
Fishing Technique | Spinning |
Number of pieces | Depends on combo |
This rod and reel combo offers an unrivaled combination of high quality performance, and value. The Ht 100 is constructed using carbon fiber drag washers and stainless steel bearing system.
It has a lightweight graphite body, with aluminum oxide guides and ergonomic handle to provide extended use without fatigue or discomfort.
This fishing rod and reel combo comes complete with a side-plate mounted telescopic pole for easy storage when not in use, or for keeping the gear together on your boat or in your gear bag.
If you are looking for a combo that is suitable for lake and saltwater fishing at the same time and sturdy enough for that price to catch a heavy bass or other fish you should definitely choose PENN Persuit combo
3. Zebco Roam Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
This Zebco Roam Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is perfect for beginners. It’s lightweight and easy to use, making it great for people who are just starting out with fishing.
It has a 5.2:1 gear ratio, making it smooth casting so you can cast further than ever before. The high quality of this rod makes it a great value for money product that will last you a long time!
The moderate-fast action makes it easier to catch medium species such as walleye and bass, while keeping the line retrieval at 28 IPT (inches per turn). This reel can be used mostly on lakes or ponds but could also be used in rivers as well if needed!
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (20-30) |
Rod Size | Different size available (6'-6'6") |
Material | Fiberglass rod blank, Aluminum spool. |
Fishing Technique | Spinning |
Number of pieces | 2 |
Action and power | Moderate-fast & medium-light |
Are you thinking about gifting a fishing rod who loves fishing? The Zebco Roam Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is right for those who like a lightweight, sturdy, and smooth combo.
4. Pflueger Trion Spinning Combo
The Berkley Trion Spinning Combo is one of the best baits, and one of the most trusted brands in fishing. The Trion’s fast action means that you can keep your lure at a consistent speed.
This rod features high quality construction, with an aluminum rotor and graphite body that makes it lightweight but strong enough to handle any fish you might reel in.
The reel has 7 bearings, which gives you more control over how fast or slow your lure moves through water. If you’re looking for something affordable but still high quality, this could be exactly what you need!
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (20-40) |
Rod Size | Different size available (5'-7') |
Material | Graphite body, Aluminum spool. |
Fishing Technique | Spinning |
Number of pieces | 1 & 2 (depending on combos) |
Action and power | Ultra light to medium |
A combo like Pflueger Trion Spinning Combo is a perfect choice from the best bass fishing rod and reel combos for such a low price in the market. At the same time giving a decent fishing experience to start early fishing without hesitation of cash.
5. Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
The Pflueger President Spinning Reel is the perfect outfit for anglers who want to get their hands on an affordable spinning reel set-up.
This combo comes with a 6’6″ medium-heavy rod that’s made from graphite and features 10 ball bearings, which reduces friction and increases casting distance.
The spool has a braided line guide integrated into it to help reduce line tangles when reeling in fish, and there’s also a sealed drag system for added casting control.
The Pflueger President has won multiple awards from Bassmaster Magazine as well as Field & Stream Magazine, so it’s proven itself time and time again over the years!
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (25-30) |
Rod Size | Different size available (5'6"-7') |
Material | Graphite body and rotor |
Fishing Technique | Spinning |
Number of pieces | 1 & 2 (depending on combos) |
Action and power | Ultra light to medium |
If you are planning to start fishing small to medium bass or not a heavy one then the Pflueger President Spinning combo is perfect with all other quality features.
6. Quantum Strategy Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
The Quantum Strategy 5-foot 2-piece fishing rod combo provides a fast action and ultra-light power, making it an excellent choice for anglers who want to spend all day on the water.
The spinning reel comes with an adjustable drag system, carbon fiber handle knobs, and a comfortable EVA grip. The rod features four guides with stainless steel frames that keep your line in place during intense fights with fish.
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Weight | Depends on Sizes |
Reel size | Different size available (5-60) |
Rod Size | Different size available (5'-9') |
Material | Graphite rod and anodized spool |
Fishing Technique | Spinning |
Number of pieces | 1 & 2 (depending on combos) |
Action and power | Fast Action & Ultra light to medium power |
Under such a low price with multiple size options selecting a durable, smooth casting bass fishing rod and reel combo is fun. All the features can attract any angler like me to test at least for a single time.
I think the Quantum Strategy Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo will make you happy in any bass or other fishing spots.
7. Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2 Piece Fishing Rod Combo
The Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2 Piece Fishing Rod Combo is a great combo for beginners because it’s easy to use, comes with a 29-piece tackle kit and it has all the features you need for success on the water.
This spincast fishing reel and rod combo features a 5-foot 6-inch 2-piece fishing pole and size 30 fishing reel. The ergonomic EVA/cork straight grip rod handle provides anglers with hours of comfort while they’re out there enjoying the day on their favorite lake or river.
The all-metal gear system produces smooth operation while casting, retrieving and fighting fish. There are also dual ceramic pick-up pins that ensure line pick up every time you set your hook during those epic battles between man and beast!
In fact, this trusted brand has been around since 1949–with over 88 years of experience behind them–you know you can count on them to deliver quality products at affordable prices!
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Line Weight | 10 lbs |
Reel size | 30 |
Rod Size | 5' 6" |
Material | Fiberglass rod and reel |
Fishing Technique | Spincasting |
Number of pieces | 1 & 2 (depending on combos) |
Action and power | Moderate action & medium power |
Overall, customers have a lot of appreciation for this fishing combo. It has a comfortable and affordable price and it’s easy to use.
The Zebeco 33 will make a wonderful gift for a young angler to learn how to fish or for professional anglers who are on a budget to enjoy some fishing fun without breaking the bank.
For those looking for a serious hardcore fishing rod, this is not the one. But if you want something on the lighter side that won’t hurt your wallet, then this easy-to handle fishing rod might be the perfect choice for you.
8. Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6 feet low profile fishing rod and reel combo
The Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6 feet low profile fishing rod and reel combo offers great performance at a budget friendly value.
The lightweight graphite reel comes pre spooled with 8 pound line for convenience, while the EVA grips provide comfort during lengthy fishing outings.
The tubular glass blank construction offers a responsive feel and rugged durability. If you’re looking for an affordable yet capable rod and reel combo, look no further than this product from Shakespeare!
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Line Weight | 8 lbs |
Reel size | 30 |
Rod Size | 5' 6" |
Material | Aluminum |
Fishing Technique | Bait casting |
Number of pieces | 2 |
Action and power | Moderate action & medium power |
It might not have the most sensitive action but will definitely meet the needs of a beginner or casual fisherman. It’s ideal for fishing small bodies of water and can be used in several river banks and lakes.
The Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6 Feet Low Profile Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is a decent purchase for the value.
9. Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
This Abu Garcia Black Max & Max X Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo will make you feel like you’re fishing in luxury.
It’s a full metal body and side plate keep precise gear alignment under heavy loads, while the techno-balanced rotor gives smooth retrieves.
This combo comes with 4+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings, an instant anti-reverse bearing, heavy duty aluminum bail wire, stainless steel main shaft and guides.
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Item Weight | 1.39 lbs |
Reel size | 30 |
Rod Size | 6' 6" |
Material | Synthetic |
Fishing Technique | Spinning, Casting |
Number of pieces | 1 |
Action and power | Moderate fast action & light power |
The Abu Garcia Black Max spinning reels offer a lot of desired traits, but their low price is what sets them apart. Beginner anglers will enjoy the smooth casting and retrieve, while more experienced anglers will appreciate how durable they are.
10. Lew’s Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Combo
Lew’s Mach 2 SLP Baitcast Combo has a number of excellent features that make this combo great for any angler who needs a new rod and reel.
The first feature is the Super Low Profile (SLP) graphite frame and side plates, which provide strength and durability while remaining lightweight.
In addition to the lightweight design, this model also comes with 10-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings and Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing. These features combine to create a smooth, consistent retrieval system that reduces friction for longer casts.
The rod itself comes equipped with premium IM8 graphite blanks ideal for fishing big baits like crankbaits or spinnerbaits at long distances from shorelines or boat docks.
Finally, we have another feature that makes this combo great: quick release side place lock lever! The side place lock lever allows you to change reels quickly so there’s no need spend hours swapping out reels.
Specification | Particulars |
|---|---|
Line Rating | 10-20 lbs |
Reel size | 32 |
Rod Size | 7' |
Material | Blend |
Fishing Technique | Baitcasting |
Number of pieces | 1 |
Action and power | Fast action & medium heavy power |
The Lew’s Mach 2 SLP is an affordable baitcasting combo package that is a good choice for anglers seeking to spend more time fishing and less time managing equipment.
The Mach 2 SLP’s solid construction, teardrop handle, reliable drag and smooth casting stroke make it a great choice for novice and intermediate anglers looking to step up their fishing game.
Bass fishing rod and reel combo buying guide
The rod
Once you determine the action of your rod, you’ll need to decide on the length. This depends on where and how you plan to fish.
A shorter rod will be easier to cast and load with line, but it may not offer enough power for larger fish. If you’re going after bigger bass, choose a longer rod that can generate more line speed when hooking up with heavy weights or large targets.
You can also opt for one that comes in two pieces so that you can break down your rig into smaller components when traveling by plane or car; this makes them much easier to store in luggage as well as transport from place to place without damaging anything else on board with them (e.g., other passengers’ belongings).
You’ll also want something lightweight so that it doesn’t cause strain during long hours out there trying catch some big ones! The best choice would be graphite composite materials since they provide added flexibility without sacrificing strength—this gives anglers an edge over traditional carbon fiber or aluminum variations because they won’t fatigue easily under pressure while still giving off good vibrations through their tips when casting accurately at long distances away from shoreline waters.” Learn more about how to choose a bass fishing rod.
The reel
The reel is the most important part of a fishing rod, especially when it comes to getting good casting distance and accuracy. The reel’s gear ratio determines how much line you can pull in per crank of the handle, while its drag system controls how much pressure is applied once you start reeling in your catch.
The amount of ball bearings in a reel matters for both durability and performance—the more bearings, the smoother your setup will function over time. Reels with fewer ball bearings tend to be noisier as well, increasing the risk that your line will get tangled or break during use.
Look for reels that have brass gears over stainless steel ones; brass gears are stronger than stainless steel but also heavier, so if you’re looking for something lightweight then choose a model with lighter gears!
The line capacity refers specifically to what type(s) of line this model can hold: braid fishing lines tend to have different diameters than monofilament braids (or mono), which means they need different reels than their companions do when storing them underwater—so keep this in mind when making any sort of purchase decision! Line retrieval refers specifically
Important features we considered when choosing best bass fishing rod and reel combos
When choosing a bass fishing rod and reel, there are a few features to consider.
The length of your rod can help determine which fish you’re likely to catch, as well as how much casting distance you’ll have. Longer one for long distance casting while shorter one for shallow water or short distance casting.
The action of the rod refers to how stiff or flexible it is, which determines whether it’s better suited for casting or reeling in heavy fish. The material used in constructing the rod can determine its durability and strength.
Rod guides are where line runs along the length of the rod while casting; they help protect against friction wear-and-tear on your line over time as well as minimize backlash (when your cast snaps back at you unexpectedly).
Rod weight refers to how much force is needed when pulling back on your reel handle; lighter rods require less effort than heavier ones but don’t allow quite as much leverage so aren’t quite as effective for catching large fish such as catfish or sturgeon (though these may be more interested in larger bait anyway!).
Reel size refers not only physical dimensions but also weight capacity; this allows heavier rods with larger reels so that you don’t have trouble lifting them up high enough. For bass fishing I will recommend you to have a reel size of 35/350/3500 or one size up if you think your location could have bigger bass.
Reel type is another thing to consider during choosing a bass fishing rod and reel combos.
Normally spinning reel is suitable for beginner angler. Spinning reels are easy to use, light weight and most of all not costly. But they have some problem with line twisting. If you reel back the line, do it carefully to eliminate this problem.
The other type is Spincast reel that has less line twisting problem like spinning reel. Spincast has also a small problem with drag ability. But that will not happen frequently. If you careful a little bit, probability of happening this problem is near to zero.
The pro level reel type is the Baitcasting type reel. They can hold heavy line weight and can cast longer distance. So if you are a beginner spinning reel is right for you. If you think that you have a decent knowledge of using several reels then you should go for baitcasting reel.
Choosing the best bass fishing rod and reel combo can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with fishing. The variety of options and prices can be confusing, but don’t worry.
In this article we have done it for you to save your time. We selected 10 of the best bass fishing rod and reel combos available on the market, each with their own advantages.
You now have a good starting point to help you choose the best rod and reel combo for your needs. Good luck! Have a nice fishing.
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