Fishing rod and reel combos aren’t for everyone. You are giving up a certain level of customization when you buy the two together and it doesn’t tend to suit more experienced anglers. Anglers you like to spend a little more time choosing a reel, or picking up one of the best lure fishing rods on the market.
But we have a lot of time for a good rod and reel set. In a world of FG knots and gear ratios, there’s just something about the simplicity of having someone deal with things for you in a pre-packaged manner. But of course, you still need to find a good quality combo – and we’re here to help.
We’ve done the research and testing to bring you the market’s tip-top options. From ultra-lightweight freshwater combos to heavy-duty saltwater setups and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.
The 6 Best Sea Fishing Spinning Reels in 2023
The 6 Best Sea Fishing Spinning Reels in 2023
EDITOR’S CHOICE
If you’re significant about saltwater turning there are a couple of non-negotiables. You want to understand what fish you’re focusing on, figure out how to track down off-putting-looking open imprints, and bring the right tackle. Beyond a bar, a decent saltwater turning reel is seemingly the second most imperative device in your munitions stockpile. If you want somewhat more persuading, look at our manual for picking a fishing reel.
Indeed, you want bait fishing boxes, sacks, and such. Yet, a pole and – for this situation – a reel are not devices you ought to ration. On the off chance that you can manage the cost of a decent quality reel with unrivaled perfection, sturdiness, and adaptability concerning fishing style. Care for it constantly and it will be more than worth the cash.
Here is the rundown of the top choices we’ve purchased or attempted throughout the years for certain outright corkers.
Our roundup of the very best saltwater spinning reels on the market. Regardless of whether you’re after a 2 or 20lb …
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Table of contents
1
What should I look for in a fishing rod and reel set?
2
What is the best all-around fishing rod and reel combo?
3
At a glance
4
The 9 best fishing rod and reel combos
5
FAQs
What should I look for in a fishing rod and reel set?
For a good quality fishing rod and reel set, you should consider;
Fishing method: if you’re planning on fly fishing, you need a fly fishing rod and reel set. For lure fishing, you’ll need a spinning or baitcasting combo. So
Rod action, length. and power: If you’re targeting powerful predators – particularly of the saltwater variety – with lures, then you’ll need a medium to fast action rod as a minimum. If you’re planning on fishing in smaller rivers and streams, a shorter rod should be ample. if you need something with improved casting distance or tip sensitivity, you should consider a longer rod.
Reel type: The three main types of reels at your disposal are spinning, baitcasting, and spin casting. Spinning reels tend to be best for beginners as they don’t tend to snag or get ‘bird’s nests.’ Baitcasting reels tend to have a higher power output and are better for larger predators but tangle more frequently as the mount is parallel to the rod.
Reel gear ratio: The higher the gear ratio on a reel, the more power output you have at your disposal. For a reel with a 5:1 gear ratio, the rotor will spin around the reel five times with every crank. When targeting larger, more powerful fish, gear ratios of 5:1 and above are essential.
Reel drag system: The drag system is the mechanism that applies pressure to the fish. Higher quality, more powerful drag systems are essential for larger fish.
Price: You can pick up a decent quality rod and reel combo for under £100, which is why they’re such a good introduction to fishing. If you’re looking to spend substantially more on a very high-quality, customized rod and reel, you should consider purchasing them separately.
Material and construction: Graphite and fiberglass rods tend to be the pick of the bunch in terms of flexibility and quality construction. Most quality reels are made from aluminum and stainless steel, with equally well-crafted components (ball-bearing et al). If you’re planning on saltwater fishing, then look for corrosion-resistant options for both.
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How To Choose The Right Fishing Reel in 2023
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What is the best all-around fishing rod and reel combo?
The Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo is the best quality fishing rod and reel combo on the market. With an ultra-lightweight option for micro-fishing right the way up to a rod with a casting weight of 60g, it’s a powerful, flexible, two-piece, carbon-fiber-made rod that’s superb for fishing in all conditions. It’s a little on the premium side price-wise, but well worth spending the money if you’re taking fishing seriously.
At a glance
BEST FEATURE
1
Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo
Abu Garcia
Superior Spinning Combo
Best quality spinning rod and reel set
2
Abu Garcia Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo
Abu Garcia
Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo
Fishing Tackle & Bait
Best all-around spinning rod and reel
3
Sonik Vader X RS Spod Rod & Reel Combo
Sonik
Vader X RS Spod Rod & Reel Combo
Angling Direct
Best coarse fishing rod and reel combo
4
Savage Gear Night Prowler Kit
Savage Gear
Night Prowler Kit
Angling Direct
Best drop shot rod and reel combo
5
Penn Wrath Surfcast Combo
Penn
Wrath Surfcast Combo
Angling Direct
Best lightweight beach caster rod and reel combo
6
Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
Penn
Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
Amazon
Best rod and reel combo for big fish
7
Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Abi Garcia
Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Angling Direct
Best bait caster rod and reel spinning combo
8
Greys K4ST X Fly Combo
Greys
K4ST X Fly Combo
Angling Direct
Best fly fishing rod and reel set
9
Abu Garcia Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
Abu Garcia
Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
Angling Direct
Best travel rod and reel combo
The 9 best fishing rod and reel combos
1
Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo
Best quality spinning rod and reel set
Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo
10
Premium product
Superior Spinning Combo
The best quality spinning rod and reel combo on the market
Ultra-lightweight micro-fishing option up to 60g casting weight and a 2500-sized reel
Two-piece rod from 6’7″- 8’2″ (more powerful rods are longer)
POSITIVES
Carbon fiber made rod has power and a sensitive tip
The guides and accessories are corrosion-resistant
A gear ratio of 5.2:1 is powerful enough to handle reasonably sized fish
NEGATIVES
If you’re after a top, top-quality rod and reel you’re still better off purchasing them separately
Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
9.5/10Read review
Abu Garcia Superior Spinning Combo is the best quality rod and reel combo on the market. With options ranging from a 6’7″ two-piece rod with a casting weight of 1-7g right the way up to an 8’2″ rod with a casting weight of 12-60g, there’s a spinning rod for every scenario outside of targeting giants.
Of course, you aren’t going to get the casting distance associated with 11’+ surf casters, but it’s a fantastic lure fishing and spinning combo. The 5.2:1 gear ratio is perfect for predator fishing in both fresh and saltwater conditions and the corrosion-resistant guides, fastenings, and fittings make for a durable rod that’s tough to beat.
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The 7 Best Bass Fishing Rods in 2023
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2
Abu Garcia Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo
Best all-around spinning rod and reel
Abu Garcia Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo
9
Great value
Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo
Fishing Tackle & Bait
7’1″ long, two-piece rod with a casting weight of 10-30g or an 8’2″ rod with a 10-45g casting weight
Medium – medium heavy power
Reel size in 2000 or 3000
POSITIVES
7+1 ball bearing in the reel
Good-quality manufacturing spec with carbon blank and aluminum spool
Smooth, fast action power
NEGATIVES
Not suitable for targeting large predators
Abu Garcia Cardinal STX Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
9/10Read review
Set Lowest Price Alert
Awin Fishing, Tackle & Bait
Born from the bestselling Cardinal range of rods, the Abu Garcia Cardinal Pro Spinning Combo is almost, almost as good as the Superior Spinning Combo. It doesn’t quite have the same level of flexibility or power and the manufacturing spec isn’t quite to the same standard. But that is to be expected at this slightly lower price point. It’s still a very competent spinning and lure-fishing set that drastically outperforms on a value basis.
The reel has a pretty smooth retrieve and the heavier rod is a good option for medium-sized predator fishing. It doesn’t provide the best power, sensitivity, or durability, but at this price point, it’s a tremendous all-around spinning rod that’s great for beginners.
3
Sonik Vader X RS Spod Rod & Reel Combo
Best coarse fishing rod and reel combo
Sonik Vader X RS Spod Rod & Reel Combo
8
Premium product
Vader X RS Spod
Angling Direct
12-long two-piece rod weighing 620g
High-quality manufacturing spec, fastenings, and fittings throughout the rod
8000 size reel with a spool capacity of mm/m 0.30/370 0.35/280 0.40/220
POSITIVES
Carbon fiber made rod makes for good power and sensitivity
The reel has 5+1 ball bearings, an aluminum handle, and an instant anti-reverse
NEGATIVES
The 4.1:1 gear ratio isn’t great for larger, more powerful fish
Only suitable for coarse fishing
Sonik Vader X RS Spod Rod and Reel Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
8/10Read review
Sonik Vader X RS Spod Rod & Reel Combo is a 12′ SPOD rod complete with an 8000-sized reel with a high line capacity designed for some pretty serious carp fishing. Whilst rod and reel combos are typically designed for beginners (or fishermen with very lazy shopping habits), the spec and aesthetic appeal of this combo belies that assumption. The matte black is a personal favorite.
The carbon fiber blank is sleek and supple with an outstanding casting range and good power. The reel itself is relatively smooth and the instant anti-reverse and twist-free roller are also associated with reels at slightly higher price points. It’s a good but not a great coarse fishing combo.
A spod is a cylindrical bait rocket that is filled with bait and cast into the swim. It’s most commonly associated with carp fishing and the buoyant nose cone is designed to flip the spod end up in the water with supreme accuracy.
4
Savage Gear Night Prowler Kit
Best drop shot rod and reel combo
Savage Gear Night Prowler Kit
9
Premium product
Night Prowler Kit
Angling Direct
Fishing Tackle & Bait
An excellent drop shot rod, reel, and drop shot fishing setup
Two-piece, 7’1″ rod with a 3-15g casting weight and a 2500-size reel
Range of jigs included from 5-13g
POSITIVES
Includes everything you need to fish for perch
Jigs, tailspin, and fluoro and a lightweight rod and reel setup
Perfect for fishing in urban environments
NEGATIVES
Only suitable for smaller predator fishing in urban environments
Savage Gear Night Prowler Kit
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
9/10Read review
Savage Gear Night Prowler Kit is something I truly love and is perfect for the urban angler. We’ve spent many hours wandering London’s canal system (with – if we’re being kind – varied success) and perch tend to be the go-to fish of choice. That’s what this set is perfect for.
The drop shot fishing setup includes a 7’1″ rod with a 3-15g casting weight, a 2500-size reel, fluorocarbon leader, and a few metal tail spinners and jigs. It’s a truly excellent setup for fishing canals and smaller bodies of water and is made to a genuinely high-quality spec. Something not normally associated with rod and reel combos.
Penn Wrath Surfcast Combo
Best lightweight beach caster rod and reel combo
Penn Wrath Surfcast Combo
8
Premium product
Wrath Surfcast Combo
Angling Direct
Amazon
Three-piece, 14′ surfcasting rod
170g casting weight
Fast action, so suitable for lure and bait fishing from the shore
POSITIVES
Exceptional casting distance
Aluminum and graphite-made reel and rod, with corrosion-resistant accessories
Super supple, sensitive tip
NEGATIVES
If you’re after a top-quality surfcasting rod and reel you’re better off purchasing them separately
Penn Wrath Surfcast Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
8/10Read review
Penn Wrath Surfcast Combo is a 14′ beach casting rod and reel set fantastic for targeting large fish from the shore. With a 170g casting weight and fast action, this three-piece rod marries a tip subtle enough for good bite detection with a supple, powerful rod designed for bigger fish. Of course, a three-piece tends to be slightly weaker than a two-piece, but outside of giants, you shouldn’t have a problem.
It doesn’t have the flexibility of other rods and is not exactly suitable for fishing in smaller rivers or more confined spaces. But if you’re in the market for a rod and reel combo that focuses on casting distance and can handle some fairly serious saltwater fish, this is the best available option.
6
Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
Best rod and reel combo for big fish
Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
8.5
Premium product
Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel
Fish Deal
Two-piece, 460g 7’1″ rod designed for saltwater fishing
Larger versions of the rod are capable of handling lures of up to 150g
Fast action and medium to heavy power
POSITIVES
Corrosion-resistant manufacturing, with K-type rings and graphite housing
Stainless steel ball-bearing system designed for saltwater conditions
Sensitive blanks provide solid bite detection
NEGATIVES
Smaller versions have limited casting distance
Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
8.5/10Read review
The Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Rod and Reel Combo are specifically designed for serious saltwater fishing. Everything about the rod is aimed at saltwater specialists and the most powerful nine-foot-long option has a casting weight of 100-150g. That is some serious lure fishing.
On that basis, it is the best rod and reel set designed for casting big lures and targeting big fish. Every individual component is corrosion-resistant and the lightweight carbon blank is powerful and responsive. Of course, the seven-foot-long, 10-40g rod has a limited casting distance and the more powerful rod has limited bite detection, but this isn’t the best all-around rod. It’s the best rod and reel combo for landing big fish.
7
Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Best bait caster rod and reel spinning combo
Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
8
Premium product
Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel
Angling Direct
Amazon
Two-piece, 6’7″ rod with a medium-heavy action and casting weights of 10-40g or 15-60g
Baitcasting reel suitable for powerful predators (and experienced anglers)
Carbon-made blanks, lightweight guides, and a cork handle
POSITIVES
Responsive, powerful blank
The baitcasting reel has a smooth action and 7+1 ball bearings
Power disc drag system and brake system suitable for more powerful predators
NEGATIVES
Unsuitable for beginners
Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
8.5/10Read review
Abu Garcia Max Pro Casting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is an excellent bait caster option designed for more experienced anglers. The carbon-made blanks are powerful and combine well with the smooth-action reel and strong drag and brake system. With a casting weight of up to 60g on the more powerful model, it’s beautifully designed for river fishing for pike.
We’ve always found baitcasting rod and reel combos to be something of an oxymoron. Rod and reel combos tend to be better for beginners whereas bait casters are designed for the more experienced angler. But this is a good value set and an excellent intermediary between spinning and baitcasting rods and reels.
Baitcasting reels are mounted on top of the rod, with a perpendicular spooling action associated with landing more powerful predators, accurate casting, and ‘birds-nests.’ Where the line tangles infuriatingly when you cast. Hence why it’s unsuitable for beginners.
Pike are the most exciting freshwater fish in UK waters thanks to their size and powerful, but surprisingly brittle …
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8
Greys K4ST X Fly Combo
Best fly fishing rod and reel set
Greys K4ST X Fly Combo
9
Premium product
K4ST X Fly Combo
Angling Direct
Superb value fly fishing rod and reel combo
Four-piece rod ranges in length from 8-10′
Medium action blank with a lightweight cork handle
POSITIVES
A super introductory fly fishing rod and reel combo
High manufacturing spec fly rod at this pricepoint
Complete with a travel case, line, and leader
NEGATIVES
Unsuitable for experienced anglers targeting serious fish on the fly
Greys K4ST X Fly Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
9/10Read review
The Greys K4ST Fly Combo is an excellent fly fishing rod and reel combo. Complete with a cracking little carry-case, decent quality line, and leader this four-piece rod comes in sizes between 8′-10′ in length. It’s an excellent beginner fly fishing rod. Such good value we own one.
The medium-action blank is supple, with a nice whip and sensitive rod tip. The cork handle is firm with a decent feel to it and the construction is very good at this price. Honestly, it’s a decent fly fishing rod and reel to have in your arsenal and well worth the money. particularly as a beginner or as a backup. One you can give to your friends.
9
Abu Garcia Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
Best travel rod and reel combo
Abu Garcia Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
8
Great value
Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
Angling Direct
Four-piece, 8-long travel rod with a 10-35g casting weight and a moderate to fast action
Reel Capacity – 0,25 mm/165 m 0,30 mm/130 m
Lightweight stainless steel corrosion-resistant guides
POSITIVES
Carbon-made four-piece surprisingly strong
Superb to transport (complete with a travel case)
5.2:1 gear ratio designed for more powerful predators
NEGATIVES
Four-piece rods are naturally less equipped to deal with more powerful predators
Reel capacity is fairly limited and 3+1 bearings don’t make for the smoothest reel
Abu Garcia Diplomat V2 Travel Combo
The 9 Best Fishing Rods and Reel Combo in 2023
8/10Read review
As kings of the value fishing tackle, it’s no surprise the Abu Garcia Diplomat V2 Travel Combo is a very good travel rod and reel combo. We now have a Savage Gear Power Game travel rod, but the Abu Garcia Diplomat combo is a very good travel rod and reel.
Travel rod setups are meant to be convenient. They’re all about convenience. From purchase to catching a fish, you want everything to be included. Which is exactly what you get here. The 2500-sized reel with a 5.2:1 gear ratio is spot on for catching medium-sized sea predators and pike, with a relatively smooth action. Of course, you give up something in the casting distance and overall power output, but that’s what a travel rod is!
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FAQs
What is a rod and reel combo?
A rod and reel combo is a fishing setup that includes both a fishing rod and reel as part of the set. Typically the rod and reel are well-matched regarding line strength and the type of fishing you’ll be doing. It is an excellent option for beginners because the setup is done for you and it’s typically excellent value.