Best Bass Rods – Size Matters

Bass Rod and Reel Combo – Good Things Come Together

When it comes to choosing the best bass rods and best bass rod and reel combos, there’s really only one thing to consider: Does it catch big bass? If the answer is yes, then it’s a good rod.

Unfortunately, answering that question is not as easy as asking it. There are thick rods, thin rods, long rods, and short rods. When it comes to rods for fishing, there are as many different types of rods as there are juvenile jokes about having a big rod.

However, when it comes to bass fishing equipment we can narrow the field down a bit. For bass it can be either a baitcasting rod or a spinning rod.

Baitcasting Rods

With a baitcasting rod, the reel and guides are located on the top of the rod, instead of underneath. This means more pulling power because the fish is pulling against the rod rather than against the guides. So, baitcasters have the advantage for larger fish.

Baitcasting rods are longer than spinning rods. This makes them able to cast further and give control over heavy lures. However, the length and weight means sacrificing control and precision, especially of the cast.

Spinning Rods

Spinning rods are common, especially for beginners, as they are easier to control and therefore much easier to learn. The reel and guides are on the underside of the rod. The guides are large because the line comes off the reel from different directions.

Because of this, baitcasting rods tend to be longer than their spinning rod cousins. However, spinning rods are good for lighter lures and are better at short, precision casting. Match a spinning reel with a longer rod and it can be a strong pairing.

Best Bass Rods – Think Sushi

It’s no surprise that many of the best fishing poles come from Japan. This island nation is known for its seafood as well as making quality products. Add the two together and it is a recipe for great fishing gear. So check out the best bass rods and reels money can buy.

SHIMANO

SHIMANO rods are some of the best on the market and should be considered by everyone from the novice to the expert. SHIMANO makes a wide range of rods from small spinners for kids to large professional poles for those who’ve done this a time or two.

St. Croix

They are also a bit easier on the wallet. While St. Croix rods are some of the best on the market, they also cost several hundred dollars. St. Croix rods are serious gear for serious anglers. For the rest, there are less pricey options that are still good rods.

Bass Rod and Reel Combo – Nothing like a Great Pair

When looking for bass gear, don’t shy away from the pre-packaged combos. There’s a reason companies make these. Nobody knows which reel pairs best with each rod than the people who make them.

In addition, a smart shopper can save a few bucks on each piece when purchasing as a unit. Since these types of rigs are becoming more and more popular, there are a lot of options out there ranging from collapsible travel set ups to pro-grade rigs.

PENN Rod & Reel Combo

For example, a PENN rod and reel combo is available in everything from a $40 kit up to a few hundred dollars for an expert set. An angler could even upgrade and stay within the same company and style as he or she learns.

Johnny Morris Signature Series Bass Caster

For those looking for something a bit more hard core who want the best bass rods, the Johnny Morris Signature Series Bass Caster Baitcast Reel/Signature Series II Trigger Rod Combo is hard to beat. It comes in at less than $400 for the set. It is well made and reliable for years of fishing.

GSX Tournament

For those looking for a baitcasting combo, the GSX Tournament Low-Profile Casting Combo is an excellent place to start. This rod and reel setup will keep it’

Quality doesn’t need to mean expensive

If the cost of high-end gear is frightening, rest easy. It is absolutely possible to find a good bass fishing rod and reel combo under $100. Frequent readers of the Rusty Angler know that we have a soft spot for inexpensive gear.

DAIWA Basiair Z45

For the most part, even the professional angler does not have an extra $2,500 laying around for a DAIWA Basiair Z45 Premium rod. Yes, that’s the rod only price! Even the professionals want fishing gear for cheap.

Do Not Go Cheap

“No worries,” I hear. “I can just go down to the WalMart and pick up a couple cheap rods and reels.” From everyone who loves to fish, please don’t. In the world of fishing, cheap gear is broken gear. Broken gear is an empty net on the way home.

For example, the Pflueger Trion Spinning Rod and Reel Combo comes in at less than $60. It’s upscale cousin, the Cabela’s Pflueger President Tourney Trail Spinning Combo can be found for under a hundred.

For a more name-known product, Abu Garcia makes a large assortment of quality rods that can be had for less than a Benjamin. The Abu Garcia Black Max Combo and the Abu Garcia Pro Max Baitcasting Combo are both exceptional bargains.

In addition, an angler can start with the spinner and then graduate to the baitcaster without changing designs or companies.

Shakespeare – To Fish or Not To Fish

Finally, any article about the best bass rods and reels would not be complete without a mention of Shakespeare.

For those who travel and fish, the Shakespeare Travelmate 6’6” Rod and Reel Combo is a must have. Solid, reliable, and equipped with its own box and small tackle kit, this is a road warriors dream. Plus, the entire kit can be had for under $50.

Good Gear – Great Price

Here at the Rusty Angler we believe in fishing giveaways of free fishing gear, including giving our readers great bass fishing tips for fall or summer. Fishing rod sales is a huge business. So enter the current giveaways on Rusty Angler and come back each day to gain more entries for your chance at winning some high quality, free fishing gear!