Planning to trace back the days when you’re out for a family fishing trip as a kid? Or do you want to master the skills you learned by yourself through a TV show? Whichever reason you have for this hobby, the beginning is never the easiest. Not only are newcomer fishers intimidated by the techniques and tricks, but they’re also very likely to spend time picking over hundreds (or thousands) of rods available in the market. That’s why this ultimate guide on the best fishing rod with reel comes in handy!
We all know that a fishing rod can take up some storage space while you travel unless you’re getting yourself a telescoping fishing rod with reel. To make room for your fishing rod and other stuff, check out these inflatable kayaks under 500 as an alternative to your conventional, wooden ones. With the inexpensive choices, you’re getting yourself more space during travel while trimming down your budget at the same time!
How to Choose the Best Fishing Rod with Reel
Many people believe that the tools won’t matter if you are born with talent. But there’s really nothing wrong with finding a good rod before you spend a huge chunk of time in the water. After all, there’s no way you’re going to enjoy catching a Marlin with an old rod which length isn’t compatible with your height. So what are the important things that you should consider before buying the right rod?
Materials
Believe it or not, but rod materials generally have a huge impact on performance. The three main fishing rod materials are fiberglass, graphite, and composite (a combination of both). Fiberglass rods are the most popular among new anglers since they’re durable, strong, and come with a friendly price tag. But given its pliable nature, you’ll have to compromise with the little feedback it provides.
Graphite rods are the opposite of fiberglass rods, meaning you’re getting yourself a lightweight rod that’s sensitive to bites. Now that you know the two, you can imagine how a composite rod will perform. It’s lighter yet not compromising sensitivity. Generally, composite rods are used by anglers experienced in different kinds of waters. And yes, they’re the most expensive out there.
Length
Rods range anywhere between 4 – 14 feet and those extreme comes with several pros and cons. Longer rods typically make a longer cast but they’re a lot harder to maneuver, while shorter rods give you limited range on how far you cast but at the same time, give you more control. That being said, choosing the right rod length really depends on the type of conditions you’ll be fishing in. For a great all-around choice for beginners, pick up a 7’ fishing rod with reel combo.
Action and Power
There are several key performances in fishing rods but two of the most important things you should note are action and power. Action determines how much and where your rod will bend. It also controls the speed of your rod from the “loaded” position to the default. While power determines a rod’s capability to withstand pressure.
What is the best all-around fishing rod with reel combo?
Our pick for the best fishing rod with reel is the Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo. With an affordable price point and its overall agility, this fishing rod with reel combo is recommended by experts. Whether you’re a beginner or recently leveled up to bass fishing, this is your best choice.
What is the best fishing rod brand?
Given the countless choices and characteristics, it’s really hard to pick one to be considered as the best fishing rod brand. But we summed up Ugly Stik, Shimano, and Daiwa as the top fishing rod brands. These brands generally offer a wide range of rods for different waters with varying prices. You can get the most economist to the high-end ones, also for various ages and fishing experience.
How much does a fishing rod and reel cost?
A good fishing rod with reel has various ranges of price points given the material and what are you going to use it for. Generally speaking, the price starts at 20 USD for surf fishing and panfish rods. While offshore and fly fishing rod costs around 30 – 50 USD. Some baitcasting rods can even cost over 500 USD.
Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2-Piece Fishing Rod Package Combo
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Suitable for everyone in the family, Zebco 33 Spincast is a moderate fishing rod with reel combo. With 5’6” length and made of fiberglass, this rod is may be more ideal for your kids’ first fishing trip. With such a low price point, the Zebco 33 Spincast is equipped with a surprisingly decent reel despite its unexpected weight. The reel is also built with changeable right- or left- hand retrieves, perfect to adjust which hand works most comfortable for casting. It’s also equipped with an electric built-in bite alert to let you know when a fish takes a bite.
It’s kind of regrettable that this rod from Zebco has concerning durability issues. Some anglers have mentioned the rod getting broken just after 4 castings. It claims that it can provide medium action but apparently it bends the same as the much cheaper Zebco 202 or Zebco ready-tackle. Our verdict is this fishing rod is the perfect choice for beginners and not the top choice for more experienced anglers.
What We Love
Great starter for kids!
Pros:
- Faster retrieve (23-inch per turn)
- Easy to use
- The purchase comes with pre-spooled lines with 10lb mono
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- The reel feels a little unbalance since it’s heavy
- Durability issues
Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6’ Low Profile
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If you’re a baitcasting beginner, we found the perfect choice for your next trip to the waters. Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6’ Low Profile casts exceptionally well considering its price point. There are plenty of moments of surprise that you’ll like from this fishing rod with reel. Baitcasting fishing rod is very technical inbuilt to give more fun experience for anglers. And Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6’ Low Profile ticks all the boxes.
There may be tricks and techniques for a more comfortable handle, but generally, this fishing rod will cater to you pretty greatly. What makes this one different than a spin-cast is how you have to slow down the reel with your thumb to avoid birds’ nests. This can be a very tricky task to learn since a lot of people have also complained about birds’ nest when they haven’t even had fun with it yet. But once you master the technique, a productive day in the water is doable with this one.
What We Love
The best baitcasting rod for beginners!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Equipped with brake and adjustable drag
- Great setup for the price
- It gives a great cast
Cons:
- No instructions in the packaging
- Fragile
PLUSINNO Red Eagle Spinning Combos
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The first thing you’ll notice from PLUSINNO Red Eagle Spinning Combos is how attractive the design is. Now, this may not be the main thing an angler looks for in their fishing rod with reel, but it surely adds a nice touch to it.
You’ll be impressed with the rod’s construction considering how lightweight and thin it is. It’s pleasantly surprising that the rod bends very nicely from the tip to the backbone without any issues. The backbone is pretty solid to the point that it can take a beating even for hook sets or battling. In addition to that, the reel is very smooth and you’re getting yourself a fishing rod equipped with a very comfortable grip. They pay attention to these little details, making it more awesome than it already is.
It’s safe to say that if you make PLUSINNO Red Eagle Spinning Combos your backup fishing rod, you’ll be satisfied with what it offers. Plus, the price won’t bust your wallet!
What We Love
The manufacturer pays attention to details, providing a great user experience.
Pros:
- Decent power despite its weight and thinness
- Smooth reel
- Comfortable and cushioned handle
- Built with attention to details
- Very slick looking
Cons:
- Durability issues
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos
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If you love fishing and happened to be a practical person at the same time, Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos is the right choice for you. As a telescoping fishing rod with reel, it won’t take too much space in your car. The better part is, your purchase comes with a proper carrying case that includes lures and lines. So many items in a package for less than 100 USD, definitely a great value for money!
People are praising the rod’s durability and construction. Built with fiberglass, ceramic, and metal, the rod is surprisingly lightweight. While a telescopic fishing rod with reel usually has issues with its assembling, it won’t be the case with this one. Many users have reported how easy it is to build this fishing rod. You can also choose which length suits you best from the available 3 choices.
What We Love
A compact telescoping fishing rod with reel that comes with great bonuses.
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight
- ● Both the rod and reel are nicely constructed
- The purchase comes with a carrying case, lures, and line
Cons:
- Uncomfortable handle
- Only suitable for shallow waters
Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
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One of the trickiest things, when you’re trying to find a good fishing rod with reel, is how compatible both are with each other. Hence why some fishing rods work best when it’s paired with a separate reel because each provides different support for your overall performance.
Coming from a big brand, Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo put many expectations on its product. If you’re planning to do a heavy-duty, this rod can surely take a beating. The brand’s reputation doesn’t give you sweet nothings, in fact, the Ugly Stik Elite is among the favorites. It’s built with composite, 35% more graphite than its predecessor. Meaning, you’ll have more sensitivity at the tip of your hand, especially when you’re fishing for small catches.
Featured with the brand’s Ugly TuffTM, you can expect extended durability from this rod. The reel included in this model has a 2 +1 ball bearings system. And it’s best to be used on freshwater.
What We Love
The reputation says it all, you’re getting yourself a great bang for the buck with the Ugly Stik Elite Combo.
Pros:
- An excellent backup for your main rod
- Both rod and the reel are durable
- Comfortable to use all-day
- Great for fishing large catches
Cons:
- Great rod, but mediocre reel
- Maybe a little too stiff for some
Pflueger Trion Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
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With an IM-6 graphite material, Pflueger Trion Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo give you the delicate weight and pretty great sensitivity. You’ll be impressed with the buttery smooth cast from the first try. Another great thing is, it comes with a sleek design and choice of color.
The technical construction of Pflueger Trion is not anything fancy, but if it’s up to the job then you won’t need it. The reel is built with the staple reel components; removable aluminum handle, 4-6 bearings, soft-touch grip, and sure click ball. The rod feels solid in your hand and considering its price point, this fishing rod with reel is hard to beat.
One last thing that makes Pflueger Trion is a top-notch fishing rod is can handle the various size of bites pretty well. Meaning, you can use it to fish Panfish to Bass. All the more reason to bag this one!
What We Love
No matter which level of experience you are, casting is easy peasy with this combo
Pros:
- Buttery smooth cast
- Has an anti-reverse version
- Intricate design on the rod
- Sturdy, but not so heavy
Cons:
- Not suitable for saltwater fishing
- Packaging issues
Ugly Stik Hi-Lite Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
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This nice set is Ugly Stik’s latest release this year. Built with moderate rod power and fast action, Ugly Stik Hi-Lite Fishing Rod and Reel Combo may not look anything sturdy or fancy. But it surely does its job pretty well. It’s safe to say that this is the best fishing rod with reel for kids or beginners, given its simple handle and overall performance.
With 3 ball bearings and a right or left retrieve, expect a fun experience for all-around angling. From simple observation, the construction may look not promising and even far from sturdy. With this product, you won’t have to worry about it since it’s built with Ugly TuffTM one-piece stainless steel to provide extended durability. This combo should last for a good couple of seasons.
What We Love
The ultimate lightweight rod without all the fuss.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Fun colors
- Available both in spin-cast and spinning options
Cons:
- Not suitable for saltwater
Lew’s American Hero Baitcast Combo
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We’re halfway through our list and it’s getting pretty tight to choose which fishing rod with reel goes to which rank. On number 6, we settled with Lew’s American Hero Baitcast Combo. Available in 6’6” and 6’10” sizes, both rods are designed as medium-heavy. One important thing to note is how it fishes a little more on the medium side than the heavy side. With 9 guides plus the tip, it’s great for the price point. The handle is comfortable enough with the slip grip style, it’s comfortable and not too bulky or heavy.
More surprises on the reel; it casts extremely well and smooth. But it’s not meant to be compared with a 200 USD reel, obviously. For the instant anti-reverse, the reel is built with one roller bearing as well as 5 bearings and 4 ball bearings. With a maximum drag of 10lbs, you can catch bass with this one. That being said, it’s more than enough for any type of fishing.
If you’re in the market for something affordable and do the job well, you can opt for this combo. We’re pretty sure it won’t disappoint. In fact, you’ll love the many surprises of its performance.
What We Love
Solid budget-friendly baitcasting rod & reel combo!
Pros:
- Built well and performs well
- Light
- Well-made reel and it seems sturdy
- Affordable
Cons:
- Very odd hook keeper, it’s actually unnecessary
Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
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Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is meant for smooth casting and retrieval, something any angler will appreciate. Thanks to its lightweight and sturdy construction, you’ll get to spend as much time as you want in the waters, a quality time with your family or friends.
Again, finding a good combo setup can be tricky but considering its overall performance, this fishing rod with reel combo is satisfactory. You’ll experience buttery smooth cast and drag, thanks to its graphite material as well as an aluminum spool smooth spins. Expect a maximum performance with this combo, especially when you’re out on freshwater!
What We Love
More options for an affordable and great fishing rod with reel!
Pros:
- Lightweight and sturdy construction
- The reel is designed for smooth casting and retrievals
- Anti-reverse bearing equipped in the reel
Cons:
- The purchase doesn’t come with fishing line
Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod 33L602M
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This fishing rod with reel seems to have garnered a pretty big number of fans, especially among fisherwomen. So if you’re looking for a potential gift for your partner, Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod 33L602M is the perfect option for that. The good news is, this combo is suitable for everyone in the family, even your daughter or niece!
With a friendly price point, Zebco makes a great combo for beginners. That being said, the quality caters to your need accordingly although not offering anything fancy. But anything that does its job and affordable is enough for the time being. Does it have to be on par with a 200 USD fishing rod? Absolutely not, but it’s definitely a different story. All in all, this is a functional and dependable fishing rod, all built in a sturdy construction that will last you a good couple of years.
What We Love
Suitable for everyone in the family,
Pros:
- Built sturdy
- Versatile and reliable
- Equipped with bite alert
Cons:
- Issues with the anti-reverse feature
Orvis 2019 Clearwater 905-4 Fly Rod
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When it comes to fly fishing, both skill and tool fall in different levels. Speaking of its price point alone, Orvis 2019 Clearwater 905-4 Fly Rod is meant for those who are willing to invest in their gears. While the build quality can be a subjective issue, it’s safe to say that the Clearwater is impressive. The cork isn’t anything fancy, but it’s much better than anything you get from budget-friendly rods.
Orvis equipped this rod with Rulon disc drag which is surprisingly providing you a smooth pickup. Not to mention it’s loaded with backing, line, and leader. If you’re new to fly fishing, this rod should be one of your top choices. Despite being an entry-level fly fishing rod, it performs fast enough on casting, handles dry flies pretty well, and most importantly, it’s friendly for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
What We Love
Your perfect companion for flyfishing days!
Pros:
- Impressive build quality
- Nice presentation
- 25-year warranty
Cons:
- Uncomfortable handle
- Not equipped with hook keep
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
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PLUSINNO is blessing us with their telescoping fishing rod with reel again. And need we remind you that this fishing rod comes out as the runner up of our list? PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos is retractable and travel-friendly. It fits even in your hiking backpack!
Given its type and price tag, the setup seems to be well-made and sturdy, it’s safe to say that this rod can take a beating. The reel is made out of an aluminum spool. Note that the line capacity depends on the model that you decide to buy. With its composite material, this rod is both strong and sensitive. In addition to all of that, it’s equipped with an Eva foam grip that fits your hand like a glove and very comfortable.
What We Love
An overall great telescoping fishing rod with reel. One of the best choices you can find in the market today!
Pros:
- Durable
- Saltwater compatible
- The purchase comes with a bag
Cons:
- The longer versions are pretty heavy
Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo
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On top of our list, we have Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo. Let’s begin with its construction; it’s built with composite material. This can only mean one thing, you’re getting the best of both worlds in terms of the material alone. It will provide you the best weight without compromising on sensitivity.
Next, let’s talk about the grip; a part that usually determines your first impression of a rod. After you get your first impression, you’ll decide whether or not you can spend a whole day with this rod. We can assure you, with Ugly Stik GX2, you can spend all the time you have in the waters, bettering your skill and betting your luck on a big catch.
If we’re talking about its durability, the Ugly Stik GX2 is a beast. Most of the online shopping experience at least has bad reviews of the product breaking during shipment. But the backbone of this rod is carrying the whole universe. You won’t have to worry about it breaking. The flexibility it provides is great and hard to beat considering its very affordable price points. It’s understandable why it garnered so many fans online.
What We Love
This fishing rod with reel makes you happy and satisfied every end of the day; you’ll be catching plenty of fish with it!
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Equipped with instant Anti-Reverse
- Extremely durable
- Lightweight
- Smooth reel
Cons:
- The drag could be a bit smoother
