The Top 5 Rods and Reels for Bass Fishing in 2022
I enjoy several different types of fishing. From northwestern trout to southeastern bass, I’ve had an exceptional time with them all, but my all-time favorite is bass fishing.
I grew up on one of the best smallmouth creeks in the world, so as you can imagine I developed a pretty deep appreciation for the absolute brutish smallmouth bass that stalk the creeks of southern America.
As I expanded my venues I developed an equally humble appreciation for the gigantic largemouth, prowling the shallows like a great white of the lake and ready to blast up on my Whopper-Plopper or ambush my trout colored Strike King grass-spinner.
If you’ve ventured into bass fishing, then you understand the depth and detail of the equipment involved.
While the endless array of lures will never be enough, (let’s be honest, we can never have enough color and variety) we can satisfy another major necessity more effectively, and that is your rod and reel.
Much like a hitter with a bat, or a guitarist with a six string; this is your ax, your rig, and you’re going to want to take pride in it.
There are a variety of options when it comes to both a reel and a rod, so much so, that there are very successful companies that specialize in just making one or the other.
With all this choice, there are a couple questions you should ask yourself.
What Type of Fishing Reel Should I Use?
The first question you must entertain is what type of reel you’d like to use. This is important because if you’re looking to revisit an old hobby, or just venturing into inshore fishing, you will likely want to look into spinning reels due to their ease of use and resistance to user error.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable time without hassle or having to learn a lot about the art, spinning reels are the only way to go.
Baitcasting reels are the other major reel type in bass fishing, and they have a reputation for being made for the serious angler.
While baitcasters do require more TLC than spinners, they also offer some unique features in terms of retrieval, drag weight resistance, and unique casting adjustments.
Baitcasters are very versatile if you’re fishing from a vessel. If you are running by docks, you can punch a drop shot down to get any bass staging underneath.
If you’re running up in a slew, you can flip a plastic creature or wacky rig a Yamamoto Senko with little if any major movement of the shoulder.
This, of course, takes practice, so be patient. If you're serious about learning a baitcaster it comes much quicker than you think.
Baitcasters are a must if you’re hitting the lake in your bass boat, or generally trying to up your bass fishing game.
A second question, what do you plan on using for lure on this reel?
Many know to consider rod strength and action when asking this question, but it is equally important to ask this question before you purchase a reel.
If you’re looking for a baitcaster to run crankbaits, jerkbaits, or plastic swimbaits, you might want a bit higher gear ratio than if you’re looking to set up a combination that targets shoreline bass with topwaters, or jigging plastics.
This principle applies to both baitcaster and spinning reels, and walks hand in hand with the final big question you should consider.
What Type of Fishing Rod Should I Buy?
It’s easy to feel like selecting a rod is less crucial than selecting a reel. This could not be further from this truth. These days rods come in a variety of types and sizes, which allow you to be highly selective in the type of casting you’ll be doing with each rod.
From 7’0” Medium Heavy All Purpose Casting Rods, to 6’8” Medium Light Topwater/Crankbait Rods, today’s technology has brought rods up to speed with reels in terms of tech and importance.
This has made selecting a proper rod a critical aspect to your bass fishing game, particularly with baitcasting rods as spinning rods are intended to be fairly all-purpose, and thus quality and size/power are the main factor.
I can say from experience that investing in a quality rod makes a huge difference. I have bought mid-range priced combos in the past and have received a fairly good reel on a somewhat decent rod.
This leads to a break when you hook up with your 5th or 6th five pounder of the year, and you’ll be cursing a company you actually really like, so make sure you invest in a rod that is equal to your reel.
You will want to consider what height of rod you’d prefer to negotiate. Keep transport in mind here. If you have a small car, you may want to invest in 6’6” or smaller, or if going larger get the rod in a 2pc if available.
Also greater rod length allows for longer casts, so consider the water you’ll be fishing and the range that you want.
Rod strength is the other major factor. Since we are focusing on bass fishing, rod strength is most important in relation to the weight of the lures you plan to use.
Having too heavy a lure for your rod action can lead to running the rod bent which can greatly affect bite sensitivity. So if you plan on running ½ ounce lures or larger, you are going to want a rod with some backbone.
Likewise, if you are seeking creek smallmouth with lighter tackle you may want to set up a lighter rig that combines flexibility and sturdiness.
With that, let’s take a look at THE TOP 5 RODS AND REELS FOR BASS FISHING IN 2022!
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THE TOP 5 REELS FOR BASS FISHING IN 2022
Quantum KVD Smoke S3 8.1:1 Baitcasting Reel
If you’ve been bass fishing for any longer than a year, you have likely heard of Kevin Van Dam. Kevin Van Dam is, perhaps unarguably, the greatest modern bass angler. One of only two men to win the Bassmaster Classic 4 times, he is the bass angling all-time money winner.
Needless to say, Kevin Van Dam knows what he’s doing when it comes to catching bass, and industry powerhouse QUANTUM has delivered with the KVD SMOKE S3 is Van Dam’s standard tournament model baitcaster.
Designed with the industry's popular low-profile construction, the KVD SMOKE offers great power and backbone through an oversized 35.5mm micro-tuned spool.
The KVD SMOKE maintains a lightweight and ergonomic handling with an advanced aluminum X-Frame, a tethered Gull Wing side cover and saltguard protection. The 8.1:1 retrieval potential allows you to run your crankbaits to perfection, but more importantly adds ease of movement to your jerkbait approach.
An ACS 4.0 cast control system allows for fine tuning your control coming off the spool, which is crucial for target casting properly. The KVD SMOKE has top of the line mechanics, and Quantum spared no expense in the research and development of the 8+1 zero friction bearing system. This not only eases casting, but aids in smoother retrieves allowing you to focus on the bite and not the lure.
Equipped with 25 lbs of drag-power, the KVD SMOKE has all the backbone you need to land a 10-pounder, while also being equipped to handle the 20 lb catfish that finds your jig. The Quantum KVD SMOKE S3 is a great all around baitcasting reel and would be a reliable investment to anyone taking their bass fishing seriously!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Bearings 8+1 with no friction design
Gear Ratio - 8.1:1
Mono Capacity - 12lb/170yrd
Braid Capacity - 30lb/210yrd
Max Drag (lb) = 25
Recovers 26” per turn
Reel weight = 7.9oz
If I’m being honest, spinning reels are my favorite. I grew up on one, and I find them invaluable on creeks, which I love to fish so much.
Improvements in the last decade or so have brought spinning reels up to the standard of baitcasters in terms of design and material.
All tournament anglers have a few spinning reels at least, because they run several types of lure very well and are easy to cast into perilous places.
The OKUMA HELIOS is a reel that I have a lot of respect for. The hearty construction lends itself to negotiating a 10 lb largemouth, while being agile enough to walk with you while you slay smallmouth down the creek.
The locking bail, which is an industry standard for quality spinning reels, locks in nice and secure and resists tripping no matter how hard you sling your lure. I always appreciate versatility in equipment, and the OKUMA HELIOS delivers with a carbon fiber construction that is not only lightweight, but inland saltwater compatible.
The 8+1 bearing system is made from corrosion resistant stainless steel, aluminium, and a machine cut brass pinion gear helping the OKUMA HELIOS maintain a smooth cast and retrieve.
The 5.8:1 gear ratio allows you to present a lure and not pull it right away from a perched bass, even if you’d like to give a little movement. This one averages just over 9” of movement per crank of the handle.
This reel has strength with 12 lb line capability, and versatility with having saltwater ready material; while being lightweight and easy to handle, which is why it’s one of my best reels this year.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Extremely Lightweight C-40X Carbon Fiber frame, side plate, and rotor
Quick Set Anti-Reverse roller bearing
Machined Aluminium 2-ton Anodized Spool
Precision Alumilite Alloy main gear and oscillating gear
Gear Ratio ranges from 5.0:1 to 5.8:1
Line Capacity ranges from 110yrd/6lb on HSX-20 to 180yrd/12lb on HSX-40
HSX-20 Recovers 24.7” per turn up to 35.9” on the HSX-40
Max drag pressure on HSX-20 = 6lb - HSX-40 = 13lb
Abu Garcia is perhaps the most legendary reel maker of all time. If you research reels at all, you’ll find this claim tough to argue with.
My first “real” reel was an Abu Garcia Bronco, spinning reel, and though I broke the reel five years ago, I still use the rod to this day.
With that said, the Abu-Garcia Revo SX delivers cutting-edge technology and performance along with the most trusted name in the industry.
Abu set an industry standard by introducing the “low-profile” construction on the REVO series, and now on their 4th generation of the REVO SX they have yet again improved upon an already top performing product.
Abu caps the D2 gear design with a brass main gear. The DuraClutch system adds durability, helps ease thumb bar resistance when casting heavy lures, and generally helps ease of casting in general.
The REVO SX also features keyed Power Stack Carbon Matrix Drag System, which is easily engageable with a fish on, and you can get the reel in two different ratios- 6.6:1 and 7.3:1. I do recommend the 7.3:1 model which is the REVO SX-HS.
The higher the ratio, the faster your lure will retrieve, or better put, the greater distance your lure will return per crank. When it comes to baitcasters I prefer a higher ratio, as I will just use a spinning reel for slower retrieves.
Another perk to the REVO SX is that all the knob work is ergonomic with plenty of size. This makes the reel a dream to operate if you’re serious and on the hunt, or have aging or chronic hand issues.
The REVO SX offers all the performance and reputation of a professional reel, while maintaining ease of use and a reasonable market price.
FEATURES & SPECS:
9 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing for smooth operation
Lightweight C6 carbon sideplates loses you no strength or durability
Duragear Brass for ensuring durability and longevity
Instant anti-reverse feature is available
Offered in 6.6:1 and 7.3:1 Gear Ratios
Recovery ranges from 27” to 30” depending on size model
Mono capacity = 175yrd/10lb to 100yrd/15lb
Braid Capacity = 190yrd/20lb to 100yrd/50lb
Weight = 7.3 oz
I’m sticking with industry giant Abu Garcia for number 2, and better yet, we’re going with the Spinning version to our #3 entry the REVO SX.
As good as Abu did on the REVO SX, they quite possibly outdid themselves with the REVO X. In fact, it’s quickly becoming recognized as one of the best bass fishing reels available.
The spool is not only constructed of the highest quality material on the market, but it is designed to be mono, braid, and even fluorocarbon ready, which until now has practically been unheard of in spinning reels under $150.00.
The REVO X features six stainless steel bearings + 1 roller bearing, and taps the same C6 carbon construction that makes for a light, but durable reel. The Carbon Matrix Hybrid Drag system is perhaps the smoothest I’ve ever used, and feels like it offers adjustability down to the tenth of a pound.
To top off the main features we have the everlast bail system, and the Rocket Line Management System. The everlast bail system is so reliable that folks even use it for walleye fishing. The Rocket Line Management system is perhaps the best feature of the reel.
For years, even on $80 combos, I would deal with periods where the reel just wanted to let the line have a mind of its own. Not with the REVO X. It evenly distributes the line when spooling it up, its incredible accuracy and ease of casting aids in keeping the line free of kinks or wandering off spool.
The bottom line is that Abu has delivered yet again. All the ergonomics, all the backbone to handle the hogs, and all at $100. This reel is a no-brainer for you no matter where you fish, but if you fish creeks or rivers at all, this reel is a must!
FEATURES & SPECS:
6 Stainless Steel Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing to resist corrosion
Carbon Matrix Hybrid Drag System is absolutely stunning
C6 Carbon Body designed to hold gears in proper alignment
Offers a lightweight graphite rotor, huge if you plan on packing this over terrain/waterway for any distance
Rocket Line Management(™) provides exceptional control over all 3 types of line
6.2:1 Gear Ratio
Retrieval rate varies depending on size model 2X10=30” up to 2X40=40”
I always pick a rolls royce, and the Lew’s PRO-Ti SPEED SPOOL SLP is certainly that. Lew’s made their name by taking the baitcasting market by storm.
Today they are among the best reel manufacturers in the world. Every pro has at least one Lew’s baitcaster in their arsenal, and this one may very well be the one.
The SLP stands for Super-Low Profile. Baitcasters designed with “low-profile” have become the industry competition point, and Lew’s delivers their lowest profile to date in the PRO-Ti SPEED SPOOL SLP.
The aluminum alloy gears are not just lightweight, but they are cut with a Hamai CNC gear hobbing machine with incredible precision.
The QuietCast Adjustable Centrifugal Braking system has an externally adjustable six pins and 27 positions. The zero reverse feature is possible due to 11 precision crafted bearings with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings, premium Japanese high speed spool bearings and a zero reverse one-way clutch bearing.
The 95mm carbon fiber handle features Winn Dri-Tac knobs, which provide easy gripping when the reel gets wet. This reel is nearly entirely constructed of metal. The SLP frame is made from one piece of aluminum, and the sideplates are finished with titanium.
A couple of luxury perks include a Speed Dial Line Indicator, which allows you to mark which line you have on the spool; and the Speed Keeper Hook Keeper which lets you attach your lure at the reel instead of on the rod.
Perhaps the thing I enjoy most about the LEW’S PRO-Ti SPEED SPOOL SLP is that it combines 20 lbs of drag power with a 30” retrieve per turn of the crank. This is great power with exceptional speed of retrieve.
When you combine that performance with an all metal construction and the best engineering in the industry, it’s easy to see why the LEW’S PRO-Ti SPEED SPOOL SLP sets this reel on the Mount Rushmore of current bass fishing reels.
FEATURES & SPECS:
One piece aluminum Super Low-Profile frame and sideplates with Titanium Deposition finish
Aircraft-grade double anodized Duralumin drilled and chamfered U-shape 32mm Spool
Hard aluminum alloy Speed Gears crafted on Hamai CNC gear hobbing machine
10+1 bearings
Weighs 6.3 oz
Line capacity 12lb/110yrd
Gear Ratio - 7.5:1
THE TOP 5 RODS FOR BASS FISHING IN 2022
Lew’s Custom Lite HM85 Casting Rod
Kicking off the rod list with a great rod for our #1 reel. Lew’s delivers yet again, and proves why they belong with the industry-leading pack. In fact, Lew’s boasts this rod is equipped with the best technology in the industry.
The rods are constructed from blanks consisting of top-grade 85 million modulus layered-graphite. This makes the CUSTOM LITE HM85 strong and durable, while maintaining high sensitivity, which comes in handy when you get into a school of rock bass or some other smaller game.
The guides are constructed from titanium oxide and promote excellent line flow. Lew’s offers the Soft Touch skeletal reel seat, which is a big time perk if you’re looking to spend more than 3 or 4 hours on the water.
It gets pretty tiresome when you get into some good fishing, but are simultaneously pestered by a reel digging into your hand. The handle of this reel is made from advanced polymer and features the Winn split grips, which provides excellent balance and control, as well as tackiness in damp conditions.
Variety is also key when selecting a baitcasting rod, and the LEW’S CUSTOM LITE HM85 delivers as good as any available. There are 11 different versions available, from the Magnum series, which offers the CUSTOM LITE in heavy or medium heavy and all 7’0” to 7’11” depending on the model purpose.
The Standard series runs in spinnerbait casting, bladed jig and chatterbait casting, topwater-jerkbait casting, and all-purpose; and they range in height from 6’8” to 7’0”.
Additionally the Magnum series offers pitching specific, flipping specific, and grass mitigation rods. This will take a bit of consideration while making your purchase, so think about what rod fits your style. If you are beginning to take up fishing, I would recommend an all-purpose rod for it’s obvious versatility.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Height Range: 6’8” - 7’11” (depending on model specific purpose)
Power Range: Medium-Light 6’8” - Heavy 7’11”
Action Range: Fast, Moderate, Moderately Fast
Line Range: 6-10lb on Medium Light to 15-60lb on Heavy (7’4”&7’6”)
Lure Range: ⅛-½ oz on Medium Light to ½-3oz on Heavy (7’11”)
The Ugly-Stik Elite Spinning rod is a popular and durable rod. First introduced by, and now a subsidiary of Shakespere, in 1976, the Ugly Stik rod is a household name if your family did much fishing.
The brand offers unique rod construction based upon the Howald method, which entails infusing a spiral fiberglass core with pigmented polyester resin, then taped together and cured in an oven. This process has been updated slightly with technological advances, but remains largely unchanged.
What has resulted is a rod that is capable of bending to a circle without breaking. I have seen this done (not to my rods, because I didn’t need to know that bad) and I can attest to its validity.
The UGLY-STIK ELITE SPINNING ROD now comes with 35% more graphite, which adds even more durability. I have heard anglers speak of landing 50+lb catfish with this rod, so you can have confidence it will manage your state record bass.
All the UGLY-STIK rods today come with the Clear-Tip design, which adds sensitivity to feel the smaller game. The Ugly-Tuff guidelines are a one-piece design constructed from stainless steel for added corrosion resistance and will negotiate all types of line.
The cork handle is one of my favorite features of this rod. I enjoy the classics and this is certainly a classic look. However, the reason this feature has endured in the rod industry is because it is comfortable as well. Something about the lightweight and soft touch of the cork makes your hand want to hold it for hours on the water.
The UGLY-STIK ELITE comes in a wide variety of size and power. From a 5’0” Ultra-Light (1 or 2pc) to 7’0” Medium Heavy or 7’6” Medium (1pc). Once again you will have to consider while making this purchase, what size and power will suit your approach best.
If you plan on lake fishing with crankbaits or a whopper-plopper you may want a bit more power than if you plan on pitching plastics or running a quarter ounce spinning lure. Venue of choice is an important factor here too, as it’s a lot more enjoyable to carry a 5 or 6ft rod up and down the creek all day than a 6’6” or 7ft rod.
This rod is a great choice for any spinning reel you purchase, and it comes with the most modest price tag on this list! Don’t let the savings fool you, this rod is a worthy companion to any spinning reel I mention and every angler should have one in their repertoire.
If you’re starting out, I recommend the 6’6” Medium 2 piece because of its versatility in power and size makes it lake ready, but the two-piece construction allows it to be broken down and transported easily through creeks.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Height Range: 4’6” to 7’6”
Power Range: Ultra-Light to Medium-Heavy
Line Range: 2-6lb on Ultra-Light to 8-17lb on Medium-Heavy
Lure Range: 1/32-¼ oz on Ultra-Light to ¼ -¾ oz on Medium-Heavy
Abu Garcia once again pops up on this list, because the company is synonymous with epic fishing. It’s undeniable legacy and product quality are a big reason it’s a favorite not just of mine, but of anglers all over the world.
With that said, it speaks volumes that Abu would call the VERITAS it’s most renowned rod series. The 30 ton graphite construction allows for insane strength while maintaining a lightweight feel.
Abu Garcia uses their Sublayer Armor to add durability, making this one of the strongest spinning rods on the market.
The ROCS (Robotically Optimized Casting System) uses modern technology to align the guide system, allowing you to have the smoothest, least impeded casts. The guides are constructed with titanium alloy and are ultra lightweight.
Abu also has their excellent lure keeper hook towards the handle, which while becoming the industry standard, is still a more ergonomic and easy to use design than the competition.
The VERITAS has all the size and power variety that a bass fisherman needs.
Starting out a bit larger than other spinning rods, the VERITAS’ shortest version is 6’3” which is honestly about perfect for the multi water-type angler such as myself, up to an 8’3” and 9' 6” mammoth versions ready for the great lakes or ocean.
Power ranges from Medium-Light to Medium-Heavy and this rod carries a reputation for being able to cast light lures while handling big fish. The rods are offered in single and two-piece construction, and come with 8 to 11 line guides depending on the height of choice.
This rod is an excellent choice for any quality reel and pairing it with the Abu Garcia REVO X SPINNING REEL is my recommendation. I would choose the 6’3” VERITAS.
It is offered in 1 piece, rated for Medium power, and is Fast action. It is rated for between a ⅛ -½ oz lures and runs 6-12 lb line. I like this model because it offers versatility. I can run ⅛ oz lures or plastics in the creeks while being able to scale up to crankbaits and jigs in the lakes.
12 lb line is all you need in bass fishing, if you’re snapping a big bass off the line it’s because your drag resistance is too tight or you’re tying your knots poorly. I have seen 17 lb catfish landed on 4 lb factory stock line, it’s about drag resistance folks.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Height Range: 6’3” to 9’6”
Power Range: Medium-Light, Medium, Medium-Heavy
Line Range: 4- 10/lb on Med-Light, to 8- 17/lb on Med-Heavy
Lure Range: 1/ 16th of an oz to a 1/2oz, ranges vary with power model
Action Range: Extra Fast to Moderate
The MICRO MAGIC series is the Duckett original. If you are already serious about bass fishing, then you know the name Boyd Duckett.
A tournament fisherman since the late 70s, Duckett didn’t have his “rookie” season until 2007. He also happened to win the Bassmaster Classic and Bassmaster Legends event that year.
This of course put the shrewd businessman on the bass fishing map and he quickly established Duckett Fishing.
The MICRO MAGIC isn’t just about the flash of the Duckett name though, this rod comes in the straightforward Casting, Cranking, Spinning model types, and all are constructed from multi-modulus advanced Sensi-Touch blanks, making any model MICRO MAGIC one of the strongest baitcasting rods on the market.
The Duckett team puts a great deal of effort into balancing each rod. Boyd being a professional angler, understands the difference rod balance makes in managing hand fatigue.
Hand fatigue is a huge factor in bite sensitivity and reaction. The comfort grip Fuji reel-seat is lightweight and ergonomic adding to the ease and comfort of the cork handle, and while the handle is cork, it is highly durable and the butt is made of EVA cut proof material.
One of the best features of the DUCKETT MICRO MAGIC is the Micro Guide Concept for the line guide system. There are a few different reasons why this feature is awesome. First it helps lighten the weight of the rod, second it helps the feel of your bite sensitivity, and third; it adds distance and most importantly control over your casts.
Casting this rod is like putting crosshairs on a target and shooting a laser at it. It will send the lure where you tell it, but watch how much umph you put into it, and be ready to stop your spool quickly.
The line guides are equipped with groove resistant braid ready inserts, and the stripper guide is double footed and elevated for durability and ease of cast.
The rod ranges in height from 6’6” to 7’11” and ranges in power from Medium to Extra Heavy. The Action ranges from Extra Fast to Moderate, while the line guide count ranges from 9 to 11 plus the tip.
I recommend the DUCKETT MICRO MAGIC CASTING ROD 6’9” Medium-Heavy power with Fast Action. I like a rod at 7’0” or under because it doesn’t have to live in the boat.
The Medium-Heavy power gives you all the backbone you’ll need to harvest that state record or sack some heavier game.
The Fast action is great for bite sensitivity at the tip and keeps your fight with your catch further from your hands and thus at a better leverage point.
Though I am profiling the baitcasting version for this list, the rod is also available in spinning versions too! Another reason why the DUCKETT MICRO MAGIC series made it so high up this year’s ranks.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Height Range on Casting Rod: 6’9” to 7’6”
Power Range: Medium to Extra Heavy
Lure Rating: ¼ oz to ⅝ oz on Medium Heavy Casting Rod 6’9”
Action Rating: Extra Fast to Moderate (Fast on 6’9” Casting Rod)
No line lb/Capacity specs given, comparable to market baitcasters
The St. Croix MOJO BASS Casting Rod has quickly become one of the premier bass fishing rods on the market, and the company backs this dependability with a 5-year warranty.
St. Croix has been around for 70 years and their product is like a fine wine, becoming one of the most sought after rods in the industry today. St. Croix boasts that its Research and Development department is the best in the industry and with the product they yield, it’s hard to deny this.
They use a simple approach, understanding that the main factors in a great rod are lightweight design, strength to hold up, and bite sensitivity.
The MOJO BASS CASTING ROD offers Advance SCIII Graphite Construction, which produces a highly durable yet incredibly flexible rod, while also utilizing Integrated Poly Curve Tooling Technology which eliminates transition points in the rod and allows for much smoother operation.
The slim profile is great for anglers looking for a non-bulky rod to fit a low-profile reel, and the line guides are constructed from aluminum oxide and set in black rings for maximum wear resistance.
The MOJO BASS uses Advanced Reinforcing Technology via exotic carbon fiber materials to add exceptional strength without adding length or diameter to the rod blank, and prevents warping over time. The flex-coat finish is also designed to hold up over usage and time, making sure your rod looks as good as your reel!
Each St. Croix rod is handcrafted and made in Park Falls, USA and features a Kigan hook ring lure keeper.
I recommend the Medium-Heavy, Fast Action, 6’8” 2 piece. Again, the reason being versatility. Any rod that can perform on the lake and in the stream I will always prefer vs a rod that has specific applicability to one body of water.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Height Range: 6’6” to 7’11” depending on model size
Power Ranges from Medium to Medium-Heavy to Heavy
Action Ranges from Extra-Fast to Fast to Moderate-Fast
Line Ranges from 8-14/lb on the Extra-Fast models to 14-30/lb on Moderate-Fast model
Lure Weight Ranges from ¼ oz to 4oz depending on the size and model
Even the largest model weighs only 6.1oz, the smallest weighs 3.7oz!
“I object to fishing tournaments less for what they do to fish than what they do to fishermen.”
— Ted Williams
Hopefully this list has helped you decide which of these top-of-the-line rods and reels you’ll be selecting to crank up your bass fishing game. Remember that it will be tempting to save a little money and go with a budget combo, but you do not want to take the bait on this occasion.
What good will it do you to spend the same money on multiple combos, once they inevitably break, as you would on one quality self-customized combo that not only offers durability to hold up for multiple seasons, but offers the perks of easier casting, greater comfort, and cast type specialization?
Few things ruin a day of fishing quicker than snapping a rod, especially when you’re $80 in on the combo and know it’ll take another $80 to get back to comparable quality.
Go ahead and save yourself the hassle and distraction by investing in a quality rod and reel.
Remember, you can’t catch a state record unless you’ve got a line in the water.
Tight lines my friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ryan Smith is an avid angler and outdoorsman based in central Kentucky.
Ryan spends between 60 and 110 days fishing each year.
He is a carpenter by trade.
ABOUT
