The Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners Under $100

If you love fishing, then you will need the perfect rod and reel combination in order to do justice to your craft. You will need the best equipment to help you reel in good catches.

In case you are a beginner, you should opt for a combination of rod and reel to make it easier for yourself. We will learn how to buy the best fishing rod for beginners. You will not have to worry about matching the compatibility of the rod with the gears of the wheel reel. An expert assembles them for you from beforehand. Another reason why you should buy a reel and rod combination is that it will be a more cost-effective option. You can get both the components together at a lower price than buying them separately. If you are on a budget, but you want high-quality equipment, then you should opt for a combo.

The Fish and Reel Buying Guide

You need to keep certain factors in mind when picking out the perfect reel and rod combo.

1. Durability:

You do not want your fishing rod-reel to fall apart within just a few days. You must ensure that the product you buy is made with strong and sturdy materials that will be able to withstand the pressure you apply when fishing. Moreover, you should opt for materials that are resistant to corrosion if you like fishing in saltwater. If your fishing rod and reel rust easily, then you will have a problem at hand.

2. Lightweight:

When you go out on fishing trips, you do not want a load of your equipment to be holding you back. Since fishing is primarily an outdoor activity, you should opt for portable fishing rods that will not take up a lot of space in your van. There are a large number of rods available in the market which can be folded and stored easily.

Apart from that, your fishing rod should also be lightweight so that you face no difficulty when trying to manage it. This is especially helpful for beginners who are just learning how to maneuver the fishing rod in the water. Aluminum is a popular choice when constructing rods and reels for this very reason.

3. Action:

When it comes to the best fishing rods, action refers to that point at which a fishing rod starts to bend if someone applies pressure at the end. While a fast action rod tends to bend towards the tip, a slow action rod will show a tendency to bend towards the base. Everyone has different preferences depending on their style of fishing. You should also check the taper of the fishing rod, which is the thickness of the item. It will impact how a rod bends and what shape it takes.

Fast action rods are usually more sensitive, and you will not have to pull the rod a lot in order to set the hook. Slow action rods are suitable for long casting and work better with treble hooks. You should decide the kind of action you need depending on the lures you use.

4. Power:

The power of a fishing rod determines its lifting strength. Known as the rod’s backbone, it will decide how smoothly your fishing venture will go. You will find that power rating is classified as heavy, medium or light usually.

There are ranges in between as well. You should know the rod’s power as it must be compatible with the weight of the line or else the equipment will be difficult to use. You will find that a heavy-powered rod will end up snapping a light line and vice versa. Finding the perfect combination for yourself is important to be a seasoned angler.

5. Responsiveness:

The best rod for fishing should be responsive and flexible to use. The quicker it can release the energy and return to its place, the better it is. The responsiveness of a rod depends on the materials that it is built with and its overall weight. Usually, lighter rods tend to be more responsive.

6. Ball Bearings:

Ball bearings help to make your reel-in smooth. You should find a rod with as many durable ball bearings as possible for the best performance.

7. Gear Ratios:

The gear ratio of a fishing reel determines how it will perform. While the lower gears will give you more power, the higher gears will give you better speed. Most of the fishing reels available in the market have a 2:1 ratio up to a 6:1 ratio. You will also find reel models that have multiple gears so you can switch at a moment’s notice.

The Best Fishing Rod Brands

• Sougayilang
• PLUSINNO
• Shakespeare
• Frabill
• Daiwa
• HDE
• Cadence

The Top Choices for Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

Some of the best fishing rods and reel combos are:

1# PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Full Kit

If you are looking for a full kit that will be suitable for beginners, then this is the one for you. It can be used even if you do not have any other fishing accessories. Manufactured with high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass, the product has perfect elasticity and is extremely durable.

Moreover, the reel seats are made with stainless steel which is supposed to be resistant to corrosion. The EVA Fore Grip offers comfort when you are out fishing for a long time. The rod comes with a power drive gear that you can use for instant power reverse.

2# Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing Reel & Rod Combo

If you do not want to spend a lot of money behind your fishing equipment, then you should invest in a good combo package. Ugly Stik has a wide variety of reels and rods to choose from, and you can take your pick. This particular model comes with the signature Ugly StikGX2 spinning rods which will offer you excellent flexibility of movement.

The rod comes with an EVA foam handle which will allow you to fish for hours at a stretch. The twist-lock reel seat will help you learn the tips and tricks of fishing faster. The model comes with a 20 size spinning reel which has one ball bearing.

3# Sougayilang Fishing Rod Reel Combos Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole with Spinning Reel

This combination comes with a fishing rod and a fishing reel. You can choose from five size kits. The best part about this package is that you can use the items for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater.

The rod is made with high-density carbon fiber that has been mixed with fiberglass. As a result, the pole is strong and durable. However, it is lightweight and easy to carry from one place to another. It comes with a comfortable grip so that you can fish for as long as you want. It also offers instant lock anti-reverse which will allow you to be in better control of your fishing.

4# Daiwa Mini System Minispin Ultralight Spinning Reel and Rod Combo

If you love to fish on the go, then you need this reel and rod on the combo. Specially made for fishing enthusiasts who love to travel, this combo consists of a 4’6” ultralight rod. You can use it for two- to six-pound test line along with 1/16- to 1/4-ounce lures.

The best part is that you will be able to pack away the five-piece rod in a compact hard case that you will be able to dump in your luggage. The case comes with built-in tackle compartments.

The spinning reel has a single ball bearing drive and offers a fast 5.1:1 gear ratio. You can also rely on Daiwa’s GyroSpin and Twist Buster technologies to help you maintain balance.

5# Sougayilang Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

This amazing starter’s package comes with a rod, reel, line, lures and other accessories you might need to learn how to fish. The rod has been crafted keeping in mind the experience of novices. It is lightweight and sensitive to ensure that beginners do not find it difficult to use. At the same time, it is durable and strong since it is made with a combination of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass.

It comes with hooded reel seats that are made with stainless steel which are resistant to the corrosive powers of saltwater. The rod has an EVA Fore Grip which offers comfort to your hands.

6# HDE Pocket Size Pen Shaped Collapsible Fishing Rod Pole and Spinning Reel Combo

You should not miss out on fishing opportunities simply because you are on the go. Having your fishing equipment nearby will allow you to indulge yourself whenever you wish. This product promises to fit inside your pocket and reduces your hassle. This high-quality and best fishing rod is shaped like a pen and will do the job well. Its affordability is an added advantage.

The FishPen consists of a casting reel which can be used by both beginners and professionals. You will find it easy to master. The rod might be small in size, but it has all the provisions of a standard fishing rod.

7# Cadence CC6 Spinning Combo

A little on the expensive side, the Cadence Fishing CC6 is the perfect fishing pole for all those want to learn some advanced fishing techniques. It offers moderate to fast action and will allow you to reel in your catch by holding firm. Made with 24-ton graphite, the rod is strong and durable. You can rely on it to last you for a few years at least. The EVA foam grips also feel comfortable and soft which will allow you to concentrate on fishing for long periods of time.

The reel has a strong aluminum frame along with carbon side plates which allows it to be lightweight but ergonomic. The EVA handle knob along with the stainless steel main shaft makes the spinning rod easy to use. Available in a lot of different sizes, this combination has something to offer for everybody. Since the product is corrosion resistant, you will be able to use it even in saltwater. The CS6 spinning reel is known to rope in the best of fishes, so be ready to make some prized catches.

8# Frabill Fin-S Pro 30-Inch Medium Ice Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

The one thing that will immediately capture your attention when it comes to this model is its affordability. It is a complete value for money as it will give you excellent performance. This medium action rod has been crafted with the help of solid carbon fiber which makes it sturdy and durable. Users have found this rod to have heightened sensitivity which helps them improve their skills.

With special single-foot ice guides made from stainless steel, this rod is perfect for both beginners and professionals. The model also comes with a reel seat and a cork grip which will keep your hands comfortable.

The spinning reel is also of great quality. It has a machined aluminum spool along with three ball bearings which will help you to master your line retrieval. The anti-reverse bearing allows instant hookups. Since the fishing rod has been treated with Sub-Zero lube, it can be used in very cold temperatures as well.

9# PLUSINNO Kids Fishing Pole, Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod, and Reel Full Kits

If you want your kids to learn fishing, then this is the perfect gift for them. The kit comes with a telescopic rod and a spin cast reel. Both of which are very easy to use. The rod has been specially designed for smaller hands, so it is just 3’9” in length and weighs 2.2 ounces. It also has a foldable structure which makes it very portable. It is easy to transport and can be stored without any hassle.

The kit also has a fishing line and efficient lures like crankbaits, jig heads so that your child can get the complete experience. You will also find sinkers, swivels, and stoppers included in the set.

If you want to get your hands on a fishing rod and reel, then you cannot go wrong with the choices listed here. All these products have received glowing reviews from users who have been impressed by their efficiency.

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Conclusion

If you’re looking to find one combo that fits in with all your needs, you don’t have to worry.  While all of them can be a great bet, we suggest you go for the Daiwa Mini System Minispin. It’s ultra light and you’re sure to love the Twist Buster technology and it’s the best fishing rod for beginners. Or do you’ve another favorite from this list? Let us know below.