If you own a superfast car with a set of poor-quality wheels, it’s obvious that you’re going to be disappointed. That’s why combinations are important. The same applies to fishing gear. Having a great quality baitcasting reel with an average rod will drastically reduce the potential of the baitcaster.
That’s why you need to ensure the best combination for both the reel and rod. It’s a kind of synchronization that will take your fishing performance to a whole new level. But does it mean it will cost a lot? Well, not at all!
We have come with some of the rarest selections so that you can find the best baitcasting rod and reel combo for the money! If you are tight on your budget and don’t want to compromise quality either, it’s time to fasten your seatbelts!
Best Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo Reviews
Quality and price – these are the two points that needed to be met when we were unearthing the combos. Luckily, we did find out 7 of the most superior choices that you can bet your money on today! Find out more in this section!
1. Sougayilang Telescopic Baitcaster Combo
So the very first combo we have on our list is the Sougayilang telescopic baitcasting combo. As you can tell, the fishing rod is a telescopic one in nature that saves a lot of space when you are not fishing. It can be easily shrunk to a smaller size and kept aside.
From 2 feet of small size to 6 feet of top length, you can easily control the size of the rod in seconds. Made on a 24-ton carbon fiber matrix technology, the movement of the rod doesn’t affect the quality and durability in any way.
The rod is quite a lightweight thing on your hand and doesn’t feel heavy at all. You can hold it and use it all day when you are in the water without feeling any fatigue on your hand. Thanks to the comfortable handle that makes it even easier to hold.
As for the reel, it’s just the one that you need for the best performance out there. It comes with an impressive 7.0:1 gear ratio that makes it pretty fast to reel out the line and reel it back in. The 9+1 super-smooth ball bearings make it even smoother for the spool to roll in its place.
This corrosion and abrasion-resistant reel can withstand saltwater for a long time. So, no matter how long you are fishing in seawater, you are going to get the best out of it, surely. Not so surprisingly, the spool doesn’t even make any awkward sound while reeling, which gives you a total silent fishing experience.
With those smooth-moving ball-bearings in place, the reel can pull a fish of around 18 pounds of weight. So, if you are playing with a big guy in the water, chill out and spool the line! To ease up your handling work, the device features an EVA handle on the side.
The handle feels super comfortable to hold and offers zero strain on your hand. Simply hold it tight and start fishing like a pro!
Highlighted Features
- Fishing rod made from 24-ton carbon fiber matrix technology
- A telescope-style fishing rod can be extended and shrunk
- The fishing reel comes with a 7.0:1 gear ratio
- Ball bearings count up to 9+1
- Carrying load capacity up to 18 pounds
Pros
- The convertible rod can be extended from 2 feet to 6 feet
- Comfortable EVA handle for smooth handling
- Abrasion-resistant ball fishing reel can work great in saltwater
- Corked handle reduces fatigue
- Silent operation for noise-free fishing
Cons
- The first lining is a bit difficult on the reel
2. Sougayilang Lightweight Carbon Fiber Baitcasting Combos
Another champ from Sougayilang is the reel and rod combo with 9+1 ball bearings. This one is not quite different from the previous one that we have reviewed, but it comes with a lot of significant features to boast of.
The rod itself is made from carbonized fiber material. It has been under immense heat to take the durable form. To be precise, the rod is built with a carbon cloth snap-fit that makes it extremely durable to use in heavy fishing. That means if the fish is heavyweight, you can bend it to a great extent without any fear of breaking it.
Another noticeable part of the rod is it comes with a 4-piece profile. You can disassemble the rod into 4 different sections and pack it up. This makes it extremely easy to carry around. The lightweight profile also helps in this regard.
The aluminum guide rings on the rod makes it pretty easy for the fishing line to glide towards the end of the fishing rod. Although the line goes through the rings, there’s no possible way that the lines will get cut by the ring.
As for the speed of the line to move while casting and reeling, you can tell it from the 7.0:1 gear ratio of it. It makes it pretty easy for the line to reel out from the spool effortlessly. And the 9+1 ball bearings play a crucial part in the smooth movement of the spool.
Holding on to the rod is rather comfortable on this device. The cork-handle at the end of the reel offers an excellent grip that resists any slipping. So you can hold on to the handle, no matter how heavy a fish is, there at the end of the line!
The good news is, the combo is available for both right-handed and left-handed users. You can easily set it up for your hand-orientation pretty easily.
Highlighted Features
- Fishing rod made from carbon cloth snap-fit
- Gear ratio measures 7.0:1
- 9+1 stainless steel ball bearings
- Aluminum ring line guide rings
- Comfortable cork handle at the end
Pros
- Rod can be disassembled and carried
- Durable construction of both rod and reel
- Fishing reel can be used by both right and left-handed user
- Superfast gear ratio for faster reeling and casting
Cons
- A few backlash occurrence is expected
3. KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
One of the most popular names in the fishing gear industry, KastKing won’t let you down if you are looking for a fishing rod and reel combo. The Crixus’ fishing rod and reel combo’ is one of the most promising products that have come out of their factory.
Talking about the rod, this is a true example of a professional touch. The rod is about 6 feet in length and is exceptionally strong when it comes to fishing. This is because the rod is made from IM6 Graphite that allows it to be one of the strongest rods around the corner.
Apart from the fact that it’s robust and sturdy, you can’t get away without appreciating the Zirconium oxide rings on it. These rings ensure not only long-lasting performance but also make sure that the line can smoothly travel through the ring’s guide and tangling is mitigated.
The handle of the rod is rather interesting than its entire construction. Its design will remind you of golf club handles as it comes with a straight cut simple design. But it doesn’t mean you don’t get much control over it.
In reality, the handle is designed with slip-resistant rubber that allows you maximum grip on it. So when you are casting the line, it’s never going to slip off your hand in the middle of it.
Hat’s off to KastKing for their innovative design of the reel itself. While the carbon-infused frame offers maximum durability, the lightweight profile allows you to hold it without any strain on your hands.
Its 5+1 double-shielded ball bearings are made from stainless steel. These bearings play a vital role in allowing effortless casting and reeling. Thanks to the CNC aluminum spool, the restless movement of it makes reeling even smoother.
Highlighted Features
- Rod is made from strong IM6 Graphite
- The handle is designed with a golf-style slip-proof design
- Reel comes with a carbon-infused sturdy frame
- The spool is constructed from CNC aluminum
- Strong stainless steel Zirconium oxide guiding rings
Pros
- A powerful drag system promotes optimum performance
- A slip-resistant handle ensures better control over the rod
- The lightweight reel is easy to operate
- 5+1 stainless steel double-shielded ball bearings allow smooth reeling
- 6 feet rod to reach maximum casting distance
Cons
- With no clicking sound, it gets confusing to change gear sometimes
4. Sougayilang Baitcaster Combo Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Did you like the first Sougayilang telescopic rod and reel combo we reviewed? If yes, then you will definitely love this one, as well. This one is yet another telescopic rod and reel combo that will take your fishing experience to a whole new level.
Why? Well, there are plenty of reasons why this one will blow your mind. To start off, the rod is a telescopic one that can be easily reduced in size and stretched, as well. So it takes just a few seconds to shrink it to about 2 feet in length, just like that. Being lightweight, you can carry it around in bags without any issue.
Speaking of lightweight, there is a reason behind it, as well. All the pieces of this rod and reel combo are made with 24-ton carbon fiber matrix technology. That offers two benefits. One, it makes the combo super sturdy. Two, it allows it to have a lightweight profile.
The most surprising feature of this champ is the gear ratio it comes with. Its 8.0:1 gear ratio is simply going to be overkill in the water. It is going to spin the spool in a superfast manner, and casting and reeling will be super smooth and easier.
Not to mention that the spool depends on 9+1 ball bearings that allow smooth movement and rotation. This gives the line even more smoothness and speed while reeling and casting. A big shoutout goes to the magnetic reel in it that offers better control over the reel. With 10 different magnets in place, say goodbye to backlash and bird’s nest.
The Eva handle with cork is a great addition for a superb grip on the rod handle. As for the reel handle, it also comes as a slip-free rubbered one for a comfortable hold!
Highlighted Features
- Telescopic fishing rod can be shrunk and extended
- Rod comes with an aluminum guide ring and guide cover
- Rod handle is covered by cork
- Gear ratio counts up to 8.0:1
- Magnetic brake system with 10 magnets
Pros
- Super speed spool with a high gear ratio
- Comfortable EVA rod handle and rubber reel handle
- Superior braking performance with 10-piece magnetic brake
- Abrasion-resistant design
- Waterproof reel and rod can be drenched in water
Cons
- The pole is a bit tight and not flexible
5. Sougayilang Lightweight Fishing Baitcaster Combos
Once again, we have another rod and reel combo from the house of Sougayilang. This time it’s the fishing baitcasting combo with a four-piece rod in the pack. Yes, the rod is not telescopic, but you can easily fold it down into four pieces to save space and easy carrying.
The fact that you can easily carry it around comes from the lightweight profile of the rod. First of all, it is made from carbonized fiber. Prior to the construction, the rod-material has to go under high temp carbonization. This makes it extremely durable, at the same time, quite slim and lightweight, as well.
With a total weight of around 1 kilogram, you can tell how slim and lightweight the rod can be. To assist in this lightweight profile, the reel comes with an aluminum frame, too! That makes it even more slim and easy to carry. Apart from the sturdiness that the aluminum frame offers, you can’t forget to appreciate the fact that the frame is corrosion-resistant, as well.
A large handle attached at the end of the rod is pretty amazing. You can easily hold it in your hand and feel totally in control. The ergonomic design with cork handles makes it pretty soft and comfortable to hold. Plus, it offers a great grip that it won’t slip off your hands.
Take your fishing experience to a whole new level with this reel as it comes with a magnetic braking system. With 9 magnets in operation, you get to control the reel like a pro. It will reduce the chance of a backlash to a certain degree and allows you smooth reeling.
As for the spool, it is made from strong CNC aluminum. This makes it quite sturdy and paves the way for smooth movement in its place. Now reel and cast with lesser effort and maximize your fishing experience!
Highlighted Features
- Fishing rod made from carbonized fiber
- Lightweight and extremely slim profile
- Weighs slightly above 1 kilogram
- Comes with 0 to 9 magnetic braking system
- Spool made from durable CNC aluminum
Pros
- A lightweight device can be easily handled
- Corked ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip
- Backlash-free casting with magnetic brake
- Available model for both right and left-handed users
- Corrosion-resistance aluminum frame can be used in saltwater
Cons
- Some customers complained about the rod being broken after heavy bending
6. Sougayilang Ultra Light Baitcasting Combo For Saltwater Freshwater
Our last combo from Sougayilang is the Ultra Light Baitcasting combo. The difference between this one and the previous one is that it doesn’t come with any accessories set. All you get is the reel and the rod, and that does save a few bucks, as well.
As usual, the fishing rod is a telescopic one. This comes in handy when you are planning to move freely with the rod packed in a bag. Simply shrink the rod into almost 1/4th of its size and carry it around. When you need it, simply pull the parts out, and there you have it!
Apart from the convenience of its size, the rod is also quite a strong one, as well. This is because it’s made with the technology of a 24T carbon fiber matrix. So, this offers great durability, plus a bit of lightweight construction, as well. So, you can use the rod in the most intense of moments without any fatigue on your hand.
And what benefit is of a durable rod if the gear ratio is low? That’s why Sougayilang didn’t hesitate to feature an 8.0:1 gear ratio to maximize the potential of this combo. It allows the spool to rotate at an amazing speed and provides an excellent reeling and casting experience.
A big shout out to the 9+1 ball bearings that makes this smooth movement a child’s play. You can feel the soft movement of the balls when you are releasing the line along with the rotation of the spool. It’s simply a brilliant design, we must say.
Not to mention, the magnetic braking system on the device is also a splendid addition to the overall design. It ensures you have greater control over the reel and, at the same time, reduces the bird’s nest experience, as well.
Highlighted Features
- The rod is of telescopic nature that can be extended and reduced
- Features strong aluminum ring guide on the rod
- Comfortable cork handle at the end of the rod
- Superfast gear ratio of 8.0:1
- 10-piece magnet for a superior magnetic braking system
Pros
- Amazing speed of spool rotation for multiple bearings
- Eva and rubber handle offer a comfortable hold
- Reduced bird’s nest and backlash issues for magnetic brake
- Waterproof and corrosion-resistant profile
Cons
- It makes a bit of annoying noise at times
Things to Look for When Buying a Baitcasting Combo
So, you are up for the best baitcasting rod and reel combo for money, right? Well, let’s be clear that it’s not an easy equilibrium to meet. A great-looking (also good performer) combo needs at least around a couple of hundred bucks to be stripped off from your pocket. But the reality is, most of us aren’t willing to spend that amount of money on a combo.
But does that mean we don’t get one? Of course not! You can check out the reviewed options to find out your choice! But before you hop in for one, follow the following conditions to hit the jackpot!
- Strength of The Rod
A crucial part of a reel and rod combo is the rod itself. It’s going to be extremely difficult for you to fish in the water if you don’t have the right rod with it. And by ‘right rod’, we definitely mean a strong one. So, how do you know if a fishing rod is strong? Well, there’s an easy way to know.
Simply check the manuals or the online selling page features for the materials used to construct the rod. There’s no way you are going to settle for something that’s made from cheap materials. Super durable Graphite, or at least, stainless steel is something you should have on your priority list.
And do make sure that the rod is made with the 24-Ton carbon fiber matrix technology. This tells you that the rod here is for some serious business.
Why do you need the strength? Well, if the rod is not strong enough, it will break down in the midst of an intense fishing fight when you are trying to bend the rod in an extreme position. So, make sure you don’t pull yourself into that situation.
- Rod Length
Apart from strength, the length is equally important for a fishing rod. It’s not going to be a wise decision if you are planning to get a fishing rod that is anything less than 6 feet. That simply doesn’t work. Make sure that the rod is more than 6 feet or at least 6 feet in length.
Having said that, think about its flexibility, as well. Do you want to carry the rod in your bag? If yes, consider a fishing rod that comes with folding capacity, or it can be shrunk to a smaller size (something that we see on a telescopic rod). The freedom of choice is finally up to you, but you need to keep a keen eye on it.
- Gear Ratio
As for the reel, one of the most important things to bat an eye on is the gear ratio. The rule of thumb here is the more the gear ratio, the faster the spool will rotate to release and bring back the line. Now, let us explain how exactly a gear works in a baitcasting reel.
The numbers in gear ratio have two parts. The first part refers to the number of rotations of the spool, and the second part refers to the number of rotations of the handle. So, if you read a gear ratio of 7.0:1, this means that the spool will spin 7 times if the handle is rotated once.
So, you better aim at higher gear ratios, in this case, to make sure that you have the best reeling and casting experience. Anything between 7.0:1 to 8.0:1 will be excellent for a baitcasting reel.
- Spool Construction
Although the gear ratio plays a vital role in determining how excellently the spool will spin, the construction of the spool has some contribution here, as well. If the spool is not well-sturdy, the movement will be affected, unfortunately. A simple hack, in this case, is to source a spool that is made from CNC aluminum.
Luckily for you, most modern baitcasting reels come with a CNC aluminum spool today. So, just go through the manual before you make a purchase. That’s all you need to do.
- Ball Bearings
Another contributor to a smooth casting and reeling experience is the ball bearings. The more ball bearings you can have, the better it is. It will allow the spool to move effortlessly and release the line in a gentle manner.
A baitcasting reel with more than 7 ball bearings should be an absolute ground-breaking performer in the water. So you better plan for something like this if you are serious about your fishing hobby!
- Superior Brake System
Just like any machine that moves, the baitcasting reel also has a baking system. It does make it pretty easy to take control of the device. This is really important for an angler as controlling the speed of the line while you cast gets quite challenging most of the time.
A good quality brake system can be of great help in this case. The anglers who have been using baitcasting reel for a while do prefer magnetic brakes. Although centrifugal or combo brakes do work great, as well, magnetic brakes have some distinct perks that make them preferable.
Magnetic brakes work with magnets on the reel that controls the release of the lines kind of automatically. That means you don’t need to think much about slowing down the line when you are casting. The brake will automatically control it and make sure there are fewer cases of backlash compared to other braking systems.
Which Hand Is It For?
Baitcasting reels come with hand-orientation. Most of the baitcasting combo sets today are designed for right-handed users. Some have converting options to switch from right-handed use to left-handed one. So choose according to your orientation.
Which Water Is It For?
Again, are you looking for a saltwater baitcasting reel or a freshwater one? Some of the combo sets offer both water types. This is also up to you to decide which one you prefer.
Handles Are Important?
And lastly, you need to offer extra care for the handles. A baitcasting combo set comes with two handles. One for the fishing rod and the other for the reel. So, when you are using the combo, you have to put your hands on both handles at the same time.
Feeling discomfort on any of these handles may affect the result tremendously. Not only that, but an uncomfortable handle can also cause fatigue on your hands. So, make sure that the handles are covered with rubber or cork for a comfortable hold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the best baitcasting combo to buy?
Ans. Although there are some of the big brands out there to bet your luck on, we would recommend going for the Sougayilang telescopic rod and reel combo. It does have all that it takes to be the best baitcasting combo in today’s time.
Q2. Where to buy a baitcaster combo?
Ans. If you are not an online person, any fishing gear store is going to be a perfect destination for you. But having e-commerce sites like eBay and Amazon, you can easily buy a baitcasting combo online, as well.
Q3. How to define the size of a baitcaster combo?
Ans. For the rod of the baitcasting combo, the size should be around 6 feet and beyond. It’s better to settle for a 7 feet rod if you can.
Q4. What is the best budget baitcaster and rod combo?
Ans. Although most baitcasting combos cost about the same, KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo should be the best choice if you are tight on your budget.
Q5. What is the best baitcaster combo for bass fishing?
Ans. There are plenty of options for superior bass fishing; you can always rely on the Sougayilang is the Ultra Light Baitcasting combo, for some of the best bass fishing sessions of your life!
Final Words
Meeting the equilibrium point of low budget and high quality is not easy. Finding the best baitcasting rod and reel combo for the money is indeed quite a challenging task. You can’t compromise quality for the price, nor can you reach the end of your pocket for some high-end feature that you don’t need.
It’s always a clever approach to get something that offers decent value and an affordable price tag. That’s what we tried here to compile. We hope our list has given you a number of options to explore. Do share your experience and thoughts! We would love to hear from you!