Fish can easily outsmart you if you don’t have the right fishing gear. So, we have reviewed some of the top-rated fishing combos on the market to find you the Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners.
If you are in a hurry:
Plussino is the Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners.
Now, let us move to our in-depth reviews.
Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners Reviews
Here is our list of the Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combos for Beginners:
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Plusinno Rod and Reel Combo
The Plussino Fishing Kit is an excellent rod and reel combo for beginners. Plussino has a fantastic market reputation. It is affordable, and you will be hard-pressed to find a better rod and reel combo. The package includes a reel, rod, six hooks, four sinkers, six lures, and a line, among other accessories.
It’s built with fiberglass and high-density carbon fiber. You get a lightweight, handy, durable fishing rod that you can use it for a long time without getting tired. The rod is very flexible, so you do not have to worry about your fish winning the fight. The fast action spinning rod adds to the enjoyment. It features an EVA Foregrip that is comfortable to use even in high tension situations.
The corrosion-resistant reel seat is made with stainless steel. So you can use the combo even in saltwater. The spool and line capacity are ideal for efficiency during your fishing trip. I like the anti-reverse power gear because it gives me extra strength and control. Combined with the power drive gears, you have a fantastic fishing rod and reel combo.
If you are looking for a starter fishing rod and reel combo, Plussino is a fantastic option.
KastKing Centron Spinning Combo
With the KastKing Centron Spinning Combo, you get quality and durability. The Toray IMG graphite body is strong yet lightweight. The rod has high modulus carbon fiber graphite construction. The spinning reel has a graphite frame and spool is aluminum.
You have the option of different rod and reel sizes. You can pick one as per your skill level or the type of fishing you are going for. If you hope to catch panfish, trout, or bass, go for the 6-feet rod with compact 2000 size reel. If you add walleye to the list, go for the 7’6″ rod with 4000 size reel. For Salmon, catfish, and steelhead, the 8 feet rod with 5000 size reel will work best.
The spinning reel allows for fluidity due to how smooth it is. It has two gear ratios, which are 4.5:1 or 5.2:1 depending upon the reel you choose. The triple-disc drag is excellent, allowing for a struggle-free, more pleasurable fishing experience.
KastKing has paid a lot of attention to the skill level of the users. The spinning reel suitable for beginners as well as more experienced anglers.
Penn Battle II Surf Fishing Combo
If you plan to go for surf fishing, then the Penn Battle II is the ideal rod & reel combo for you. Penn has a solid market reputation for saltwater fishing gear. Its been on the market for over 75 years.
The rod is graphite composite, and comes in different lengths, from 6.5 to 10 feet. The reel comes with the carbon fiber HT-100 drag system. It gives you power without compromising on smoothness.
You also enjoy a smooth intake, larger drags, and a longer casting range making it ideal for heavy loads. It has a full metal body, rotor, and side plate for durability. The spinning reel has five sealed stainless steel ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing. It allows you to pull in your fish without any pullback.
The spool is anodized aluminum. You can tie the line without having to use backing. The reel has line capacity markings that allow you to know exactly how much of the line is off the spool. The markings are 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity. This is a nice feature for someone who may not have too much fishing experience.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Combo
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 is a durable, yet budget fishing combo. You get to enjoy the tradition and heritage of the original Ugly Stik spinning rod. You get high performance and reliability that is a trademark of the company.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 is a lightweight rod with a lot of sensitivity. The construction is graphite and fiberglass. The EVA handle is comfortable to use, even over a long period. The GX2 material gives you excellent performance even in wet conditions. Best of all, it is easy to maintain, and cleaning it is a breeze. You also get stainless steel guides on the rod for smoothness and durability.
The 4-bearing reel is very quiet, and you get a level of performance you would not expect from that price point. The anti-reverse bearing comes in handy when you’re handling larger fish. The drag is excellent, meaning that you will win the fishing battle. The spool is aluminum and the rotor is plastic.
ShinePick Spinning Rod & Reel
ShinePick fishing set comes with a telescopic spinning rod, a powerful spinning reel, line, lures, hook, and a carrier bag. For a beginner, it is a good option as you get everything you need. The telescopic fishing rod is made of carbon-fiber composite. It offers both sensitivity and strength. The ergonomic ABS handle is comfortable, meaning you can fish for longer. The spool is made of anodized aluminum.
The DS3000 spinning reel has a precision gear and gear ratio of 5:2:1, making it very powerful. You can apply more pressure on your catch with the front drag system on the spinning reel. You will appreciate the instant stop anti-reverse bearing if you catch big fish. The short body, large spool, and longline are other features that will help when fishing.
The fishing kit is lightweight. You can store and travel conveniently. It will fit into your vehicle, backpack, or boat. The carrier bag is especially helpful in such cases. ShinePick Spinning Rod & Reel is lightweight and will work well for saltwater fishing. It has everything you need and is fantastic for beginners.
FishOaky Starter Fishing Rod
FishOaky Starter Fishing Rod is made of carbon fiber for flexibility and durability. The rod has a hooded reel seat that will not corrode even in seawater. The rod is easy to use and quite comfortable to handle. The guides are stainless steel ceramic inserts that make them ideal for longer casts.
The telescopic collapsible rod is easy to store and perfect for travel. It fits into the carry case that comes with it. The case also has two extra pockets that you can use for storing your tackle or line.
FishOaky is a high quality yet affordable starter fishing rod. It comes with a ton of accessories including lures, tackle kit, lure box, and hooks. I also like the range of baits, including artificial, octopus-shaped, and fluorescent baits.
I like that the kit can hold its own even in demanding waters. The S curve design of the oscillation system baseline makes winding very easy. The spool is large, but the body is a bit short. I love that it is great for beginners, and has everything to get started. It saves you the time and money of shopping the gear separately.
Wild Water Starter Fly Rod Combo
Wild Water Starter Fly Rod Combo has everything you need to get started with fly fishing. You get a fly fishing rod, floating line, reel, lures, and an extra ladder. You also get a line nipper, retractable zinger, and knot tying tool. It is a very convenient fly fishing combo to have, whether you are a beginner or have some experience.
I like the fact that it is easy to transport and store because it is easy to disassemble the 9 foot, four-piece rod. The manufacturer has thrown in a zippered pouch for the rod. It is lightweight, coming in at only 5.7 ounces. I also like the sturdy design, flexibility, and durability. All thanks to the graphite composite material. You can easily pull in trout, small bass, and panfish, among others, without fear that it will break.
The arbor casting reel has a cast aluminum construction and is very light. It features a disc drag system that you can adjust as you wish. It also has a quick-release spool that will make your fishing more fun.
The design of the casting reel allows for a left or right hand retrieve. It doesn’t matter whether you are left or right-handed, you can use the rod. Quite a nice touch, if I may say so. It is pre-spooled, and you can use 5-6 weight lines on the IM8 graphite rod.
To make it even more convenient for beginners, the pack comes with a reference guide. You get to learn more about fishing by learning from the experts. You get lessons on how to assemble the rod, tie a fly, casting tips, how to care for your equipment, among others.
Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcasting Combo
Abu Garcia is a brand that many people know for the quality of their products. Their fishing gear is some of the best you will get in the market. You can expect a fantastic product with Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcaster Combo. What you get in the package is a baitcasting rod and reel combo for beginners at a friendly price point.
I love the fact that the rod comes in three different sizes and power options. If you prefer fast action, go for the 7 feet medium-heavy power rod. If you are still learning how to fish, then start with the 6’6″ medium power moderate action. Once you learn the ropes, you can graduate to the 6’6” medium power fast action. The latter has two pieces, which is an excellent value add.
Another fantastic feature is the 24-ton graphite rod construction. Graphite is a fantastic material because it is light and very sensitive. You can go for hours without feeling any strain due to the weight.
The reel is lightweight with graphite side plates and a one-piece graphite frame. The one roller bearing and four stainless steel bearings make it smooth. You also get the power disc system that helps with the drag performance. It is a fantastic combo for some casual fishing, making it ideal for beginners.
Types of Fishing Rods for Beginners
The type of fishing rod you buy will depend on the kind of fishing you will be doing. The fishing location will also influence the beginner fishing rod you buy.
Fishing rods that work well in seawater may not work as well in freshwater. Seawater will corrode, so you must ensure that you buy the type that does not rust. If you are fishing in icy water, you need shorter rods that are about two feet in length. Spinning or casting rods work well for almost any type of fishing. Specialty surf rods are excellent for deep ocean casting.
Here’s a look at different types of fishing rods.
Spinning Rods
Spinning combos are popular, easy to use, and allow for long casts. They also tend to be more affordable. If you want to cast, open the wire bail on the spool, and use your index finger to hold the line. You will then release it as you move the rod forward.
Most telescopic rods are collapsible spinning rods. They are great for hiking or camping trips.
Spin cast combos have a lot of similarities with spinning combos. But the spool is stationary and is in an enclosure. You use a thumb button to release the line.
Baitcasters
Baitcasting is the casting of lure using the revolving spool reel. You will need to learn how to use it because it can be a bit more challenging. But you will get better accuracy and control, especially with the line.
Surf fishing combo is a baitcasting combo that you need to fish from the shore, boat, or jetty.
Fly Fishing Rods
Fly casting is a more difficult kind of fishing. You will often find it in sport or tournaments. Since you are using an artificial fly, you need to use the weight of the line and not lure when casting.
Fly fishing rods are typically long and thin and specific to fish sizes.
How to Choose a Fishing Rod & Reel Combo
It is not uncommon to find that experienced anglers buy the reel and rod separately. Some beginners may also do the same. But it mostly depends on your knowledge level. But it makes more sense for a beginner to buy a combo because you get everything you need in the kit. It is more cost-effective and convenient.
As a novice, you may end up buying items you do not need or do not match with the rest of your fishing gear. In most cases, there is a lot of guesswork in trying to determine what goes where. You, for example, have to match your rod and reel perfectly.
You must also understand terms such as casting gear, spinning, and gear ratio, among others. A fishing combo eliminates the guesswork. The manufacturers have made it easy for you by supplying everything you need.
Fishing Rod
The rod action refers to the flex of the rod along the length, and how quickly it goes back to the neutral position. The length, taper, and material will influence the action. You get a more even rod action with a tapering design.
If you are going for smaller fish, look for a long thin lightweight rod in the range of 7 to 10 feet. The slow action will allow you to adjust accordingly. For bigger species, you need a short rod of between five to seven feet. They are stiffer, heavier, and give you more power.
Other factors that may influence rod action include whether it is a one or two-piece. It will also depend on whether it has many pieces, like in the case of travel rods. Telescopic rods also have a role to play.
One of the features to look for in the handle is comfort when handling. That is why some have ergonomic designs. Also, consider the ambidextrous ones so that you can use either hand. You want a good grip and have a range of options with regards to material such as synthetic, wooden, or metal.
Fishing Reel
You want a smooth, vibration-free, and noise-free fishing reel. Generally, the more the bearings, the smoother a fishing reel.
The body of the reel is also a crucial component. Consider the material so that you get one that is lightweight and durable. Some are graphite, aluminum, plastic, or a combination of materials. Aluminum reels are durable, ideal for seawater, but you have less flexibility. Graphite is lightweight, while still giving you durability.
The drag is critical because it will allow for less resistance when you’re trying to reel in the fish. The two major types are rear and front drag systems. The reel seat should be compatible with the reel. You also want a material that does not rust or stain.
You will find many people using spinning reels because they are handy. Ensure that you understand the compatibility of the rod when looking at the capacity of the line. Those that are lightweight will cast further than the heavier ones.
You can get graphite, plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel spools. They also come in different sizes, which will help determine the length of the line.
Conclusion
Here is our list of the 8 Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combos for Beginners:
- Plusinno Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
- KastKing Centron Spinning Combo
- Penn Battle II Surf Fishing Combo
- Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Combo
- ShinePick Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
- FishOaky Starter Fishing Rod
- Wild Water Starter Fly Rod Combo
- Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcasting Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Fishing, successfully, is not as easy as you might think. Selecting the right fishing rod and reel combo can be a bit daunting for beginners. We have given you a comprehensive review of some of the top-rated rod and reel combos for beginners. We have also looked at what you should consider when purchasing one.
Your budget will influence the rod and reel combo you buy. We have reviewed fishing combos that are affordable, without compromising on quality.
Plussino is the Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners as per our reviews. It is affordable, portable, durable, and easy to use, making it ideal for novices. If you have a suggestion for some other combo then please let us know via the comments section. We will try to include it in our next update.