Looking to step up your casting game from a spinning outfit but confused about what exactly you should buy?
Why buy a baitcasting combo?
In a word;
Value!
The best baitcaster combos combine both value and performance in one package.
Often when combos are sold from reputable big brands you end up getting much more bang for your buck than if you were to purchase a separate rod and reel.
There is a lot of cheaper junk out there and often with the fishing tackle, you really do get what you pay for. No one wants to lose that fish of a lifetime because the rod tip snaps or your reel jams.
| AT A GLANCE: |
|---|
| 1. Our Top Pick: Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo |
| 2. Best Overall: Abu Garcia Black Max Combo |
| 3. Best Value: Lew’s Mach Speed MCS Combo |
If you stick to the major brands like Abu Garcia, Ugly Stik, Lews, and 13 Fishing you can generally rely on the quality of the materials and build.
Table of Contents
Best Baitcaster Combo for the money
A perfect combo for both beginners and experienced alike. Legendary “Elite” range of casting rods paired with a quality reel for smooth casting performance.
Who Should Buy a Combo?
Anyone who is thinking of switching over from a spinning setup and are looking to try their hands at using a baitcasting rod and reel should definitely think about opting for a combo.
Personally, I keep one in my truck for the occasional sneaky hour after work.
I would not keep a high-end casting rod and reel in my truck as they are likely to get either damaged or stolen, but a decent baitcaster combo under $100 is no problem!
Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combos
If you are new to casting rod and reel setup then there are a few subtle differences to be aware of
- Reel – line runs off the spool as it turns, requires thumb to control cast, not suitable for ultralight gear
- Rod – line guides sit flusher to the rod blank, reel seat may have what is called a trigger grip above it
A baitcasting reel is a major departure from a spinning or open-face reel.
The spool runs horizontally across the rod and once the brake is disengaged the spool will run freely.
This free-spooling can give you immense casting performance and control however it can result in what is called a bird’s nest tangle.
When your lure slows down at the end of a cast often the spool continues to turn at a higher rate than the line is coming off it. This results in the spool running over the line on itself and resulting in a big tangled mess.
You need to adjust to this type of casting technique and there is a significant learning curve. However, once mastered it is noticeably superior to using a spinning reel on all but the lightest of tackle.
A biatcasting rod only really differs from a regular spinning rod in that the line guides and reel seats are slightly different.
The line guides on a spinning reel need to take into account the circular motion of the line as it comes off the spool. To accommodate this the line guides closer to the reel are much larger in diameter.
On a casting rod, there is no such issue. So, the guides are generally smaller and closer in to the rod blank.
The reel seat may have a trigger trip that allows you to grip the rod with your thumb in an optimal and more natural position for casting a baitcaster.
Below we have reviewed the 7 Best Baitcaster Combos for the money.
1. Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo
Specifications
The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo has proven to be a popular option for many people.
If you’re looking for a solid rod and reel combo, then this is likely going to be of interest to you.
Take a look at some more information about the rod below. It’ll help you to figure out if this one is going to suit your needs.
Lightweight and Easy to Use
Overall, this rod is very lightweight and easy to use. It’s going to be a rod that will be simple enough for beginners to use while still offering good enough functionality to appeal to veteran fishermen.
You should be able to use this to reel in plenty of fish, and it’s going to hold up when you’re trying to reel in the big one. Having this combination of power and ease of use is certainly going to appeal to many.
It has been made using lightweight graphite, and it has a composite frame with double paddle aluminum. This reel also sports a machined aluminum ported spool.
If you are looking for a good catfish pole then choose a medium/heavy power rating.
You’ll even be able to make use of the adjustable magnetic cast control. Overall, the durability and versatility of this rod are to be commended.
Great Price
Another thing that helps this rod and reel combo to stand out from the competition is the price. It’s very reasonably priced and is going to be perfect for a first fishing rod for someone who is getting into the hobby.
This is a premium rod that performs well while still being priced very low. It’s a bargain, and you won’t find many rod and reel combos out there that are a better deal.
In Conclusion
This is definitely a rod and reel combo that is worth your time. It’s reasonably priced, and it’ll even work great for saltwater fishing. Consider picking this up if you need a good rod or if you’re buying it as a present for someone who is just starting out. It’ll be simple to use, and it’ll always be a reliable fishing rod.
2. Abu Garcia Black Max Combo
Specifications
This baitcasting rod and reel combo from Abu Garcia offers fishermen a very versatile experience.
There are many features that help this rod to stand out among other rods that are similarly priced.
Look at the details below so that you can see if this rod is worth your time or not. It’ll help you to find the perfect rod for your situation.
Durability and Power
One great aspect of this rod is that it is quite durable. It has been made to last, and you won’t feel like this rod is in danger of breaking due to overuse. This also helps when it comes to power. You’re going to be able to use this rod to reel in big catches, making it a very useful fishing rod to own.
Superior Feel and Responsiveness
The feel and responsiveness of this rod need to be commended as well. This 24-ton graphite rod gives users a lightweight option that is never going to feel cumbersome. It also allows you to really feel what you’re doing and is responsive to your subtle movements. You can get great results if you choose to make use of this rod.
Great Reel Design
The reel design on this rod is actually something special. It is incredibly lightweight and sleek. It has a one-piece graphite frame as well as graphite side plates. Making use of the reel feels very natural, and you should have a good time reeling in your catches.
In Conclusion
It’s hard not to recommend this rod as a good option to consider. This is going to be a good choice for any fisherman who wants an affordable rod that performs up to a high standard. It’s lightweight, it has a great feel, and the reel design is fantastic. Don’t hesitate to pick this rod and reel combo up if you’ve been looking for something new.
3. Lew’s Mach Speed MCS Combo
Specifications
If you’ve been looking for a lightweight rod and reel combo, then you’re likely going to be intrigued by this rod from Lew’s.
It offers fishermen a very good experience and excels in several areas.
Look at the information below to see what it has to offer. You’ll be able to determine if this rod is going to be able to live up to your high expectations.
Very Low-Profile Design
The design of this rod can definitely be considered low-profile. It has been made to be as light as it can be, and it also has a smaller reel design than usual. It also has both a graphite frame and side plates.
The u-shaped spool really is quite fast, and it was crafted using anodized aluminum.
Double-Shielded 10-Bearing Drive System
It’s also important to make note of the double-shielded 10-bearing drive system that this rod and reel combo uses. It features a zero-reverse anti-reverse clutch bearing that is made out of stainless steel.
External adjustments are possible due to the magnetic control system that is being used here. You’ll be able to make use of up to ten pounds of drag power.
Great Performance
The performance of this rod is actually really great. You’re going to be able to feel what you’re doing, and the rod works to help make things easy on you.
The double-anodized aluminum spool works superbly, and you’ll be able to quickly release when necessary. This is going to be a good rod and reel combo for anyone who wants a rod that will perform to a high standard.
In Conclusion
Making use of this rod is going to be simple, and you’ll definitely feel like you got your money’s worth. It’s a pretty good overall value, and it has many premium features that make it worth owning.
The speed spool is one of the standout features of this rod and reel combo, but the entire rod is good. Give this one your consideration if you like what it has to offer.
4. Abu Garcia Revo X Low Profile Combo
Specifications
Abu Garcia is a pretty well-known source for a fishing rod and reel combos.
This option here is one that has many people curious. Is it worthwhile, or is it just another rod that people can go ahead and ignore?
Taking the time to look over what it has to offer below can help you come to a conclusion.
Made to Be Low-Profile
You’ll note that this rod has a very low-profile design. It has been made to be sleek and feels a bit easier to use than normal because of it. This is also going to be a fairly lightweight rod that is easy to use. This makes it a good choice for a first fishing rod for someone who is just learning the ropes.
High-Quality Materials
You should know that this rod has been made using high-quality materials. The graphite used to make this rod allows you to enjoy a lightweight fishing experience.
It’s also durable enough to help you catch fish without having to worry if the rod can handle it. This rod and reel combo uses 30-ton graphite blank and stainless steel guides to ensure that casting is always as simple as can be.
Good Reel Sensitivity
The reel sensitivity on this rod is also very good. It has an extreme-exposure reel that really boosts the overall sensitivity. It makes it easier to reel in a big catch or to make subtle changes when necessary. You’ll really be able to feel what you’re doing when you own this rod.
In Conclusion
This is a solid rod and reel combo that will offer you a lot for the money. It has good reel sensitivity, it’s made from high-quality materials, and it’s low-profile. If this appeals to you, then it’s an option that is worth thinking about. It isn’t the best rod and reel combo on the market, but it stands up to the competition as a solid offering.
5. Lew’s Mach II Combo
Those who are looking for a good baitcast rod and reel combo might want to consider this one here.
This rod actually has a lot to offer, and many people have been really happy with it.
Take your time to go over a little bit about this rod so that you can see what all the fuss is about. It just might be a great rod and reel combo to add to your collection.
Smooth Casting
The smooth casting of this baitcast rod and reel combo is one of its standout features. You’re going to be able to cast out very easily, and you never feel any resistance.
It’s very simple to put your line right where you need it to be. If you want to cast to be as easy as it can be, then you should definitely consider picking this one up.
Feels Natural in Your Hands
You should be able to feel really natural when you make use of this rod. It feels like it fits in your hand comfortably, and you’ll be able to use it for long periods of time if you have a fishing weekend planned. Anyone who cares about comfort will find this rod to be a good fit. It has been designed to be very ergonomic, and it shows.
Great for First-Time Baitcast Users
If you are new to using baitcast reels, then this is going to be a good rod to start with. It feels really easy to get the hang of using this rod.
If you’re coming to this rod from using a spinning reel, then you’ll note that you don’t have to use as much muscle or effort to get the best results. It feels good after you spend a bit of time with it, and it’s a great entry-level rod for baitcast newbies.
In Conclusion
Now that you’ve seen what this rod has to offer you, it’s easy to tell that it’s worthwhile. This is definitely a good rod that is going to be able to provide you with a premium experience.
If you want a rod with a great baitcast reel, then you’ll be thrilled with how this one performs. It feels great in your hands, and you’re going to be able to put it to great use.
Specifications
6. Abu Garcia Pro Max Combo
Specifications
When taking a look at the rods offered by Abu Garcia, you’ll note that there are some very good ones and others that are just kind of average.
Knowing this, you might be curious where the Pro Max rod and reel combo falls on this scale.
It’s time to take a look at what this rod can do to determine how worthwhile it is. You’ll be able to read all about it to see if this one is worth buying or not.
Super Lightweight
You’re going to love how lightweight this rod feels. It is going to be easy to hold and maneuver, allowing you to have a better experience. This rod will work well in both saltwater and freshwater, too. You should enjoy using this in many different situations.
Casting Is Very Simple
Luckily, casting is very simple with this rod. You’re going to be able to cast out with ease. Configuring this reel to your liking and getting things calibrated will be easy. This allows you to get the best possible casting even if you aren’t that experienced. This is one of the best rods for casting for an inexperienced fisherman.
Good Action and Average Power
This rod has good action, and you’re going to be able to feel the fish biting your hook.
Being able to react to subtle changes is definitely possible when you’re using this rod. The power that this rod offers is pretty average, as it comes in at a medium weight. You should be able to haul in a bigger fish without any issues, though.
In Conclusion
You’ll find that this rod is going to provide you with a solid overall experience. It isn’t going to blow you away with any one feature, but it performs well in several areas. If you want something that you can rely on while you’re out fishing, then this is a sensible rod to purchase. You’re going to be able to enjoy a solid experience the entire time
7. 13 Fishing Origin FB Baitcasting Combo
Specifications
Today you’re going to be able to take a look at the 13 Fishing Origin Fate Black Casting Rod and Reel Combo.
Many people have been curious about this rod and everything that it has to offer.
You’ll be able to see what the best features of this rod are so that you can determine if it’s right for you. Take the time to read all about it below.
Great Power
One of the biggest reasons to consider buying this rod is that it has great power. If you want a durable rod that is going to allow you to haul in the big catches, then this one is a great option.
It has the right weight and size to give you the power that you need. When compared to other rods at similar prices, this one definitely stands out for having solid power.
Comfortable to Grip
You’re also going to fall in love with how comfortable this rod is to hold in your hands. It has a very comfortable grip that is going to make it simpler to use. You’ll feel just fine when you’re fishing for long periods of time. Even battling with a fish will feel better on your hands due to the comfortable grip design.
Baitcasting Made Easy
Baitcasting is made easy with this rod and reel combo. You’re going to be able to make use of the smooth design of this baitcasting rod to put your line where it needs to go. This is going to be a good option for people who want to get better at casting. It’s very accurate, and you’ll definitely be pleased.
In Conclusion
This is certainly a very good rod and reel combo to consider purchasing. It offers great power, a comfortable grip, and great baitcasting. You shouldn’t hold back on purchasing this one if you feel that it fits what you want out of a fishing rod. It’s definitely worth the price, and you’ll be happy with what you’re getting.
Baitcaster Combo Buying Guide
Ideally, you will choose a combo that is perfectly matched to the types of lures and style of fishing that you are doing.
Baitcasters are all about casting performance and matching the best baitcasting rod with a high-quality reel will ensure that you will get the best out of your combo.
Whilst buying a high-end separate rod and reel will get you the very best, it will also be expensive.
When purchasing your baitcaster combo don’t go buying the most expensive one.
It’s much better to purchase a cheaper combo and once you become a more experienced caster you can then upgrade to something better.
Chances are you won’t need to change for a few years so learn with a basic model and then from there figure out what your style of fishing might require.
You can buy a pretty decent baitcaster combo under 200 and unless you are targeting some really big fish it should be more than capable of handling the average-sized bass or smaller musky.