Instead of combining these tools yourself, you can get a baitcaster combo which is a matching reel set and rods that are designed for specific types of fishing.
And because there are many options from where you can choose a baitcaster combo, choosing the best baitcaster combo can get a bit overwhelming and tricky! This is why we have reviewed five of the best baitcaster combos to help you choose which fits best to your needs and preference.
More than giving you the option, and because using a baitcaster is oftentimes challenging, we are also helping you identify the things to consider in buying your baitcaster combo.
Top 10 Baitcaster Combo Overview
| Image | Name | Rod Sizes | Gear Ratio | Reel Bearings | Rating (1-5) | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. KastKing Crixus | 5'6"-7' | 6.5:1 | 5+1 | 4.6 |  |
 | 2. Lew's Fishing Mach Crush | 7'-7'3" | 7.5:1 | 9+1 | 4.6 | |
 | 3. Abu Garcia Pro Max | 6'6"-7' | 5.8:1 | 7+1 | 4.4 | |
 | 4. Tailored Tackle Bass | 7' | 6.3:1 | 6+1 | 4.4 | |
 | 5 . Berkley Big Game | 6'6"-7' | 5.1:1 | 6+1 | 3.9 | |
 | 6. Lew's Mach Smash SLP | 6'10" | 7.5:1 | 7+1 | 4.5 | |
 | 7. Lew's Fishing Laser MG | 6'6"-7' | 6.4:1 | 7+1 | 4.4 | |
 | 8. Ugly Stik Elite | 6'6" | 6.2:1 | 2+1 | 4.4 | |
 | 9. Lew’s American Hero | 7'-7' 2" | 6.4:1 | 4+1 | 3.9 | |
 | 10. Sougayilang | 7' | 6.3:1 | 9+1 | 4.0 | |
Things to look for in choosing the best baitcaster combo
The baitcaster combo you are choosing depends on several things, including your preference, how much you are willing to pay, and the activity for which you are using it. Here are several things to need to consider in buying a baitcaster combo:
Size, Gearing, Braking System of Baitcasting Reel
One essential part of your baitcaster combo is the baitcasting reel. Choosing the right baitcasting reel depends on the purpose of your fishing, the place where you intend to fish, and even the type of fish you wish to catch.
Size
It is important to consider the size of the baitcasting reel. Catching large fish would need larger reels while smaller reels are good for regular-size fish. Consequently, though, larger baitcasting reels are heavier. The size of the baitcasting reel must also be appropriate to the location of your fishing activity. Fishing in deeper water needs longer lines, so you might need a medium-size, if not a large reel, which could hold more lines. If you are just fishing in shallow waters where more lines are not needed, a smaller one would do.
Braking System
Consider as well the braking system of the baitcaster. If you’re a beginner and you’re having a hard time making sure that the line does not leave the reel too quickly or too slowly, you might want to consider a baitcaster whose braking system is easier to adjust until you master it.
Rod, Material, and Rod Action
It is important that your baitcasting reel fits perfectly with your fishing rod, so you would need to look into the factors that might affect its performance:
Length of Rod
The length of the blank (rod’s shaft) depends on the casting distance. A longer rod could send lines out farther. While a shorter rod could not send a line out as far, it gives the angler more mobility. This is best for anglers who move and pick up more often. Shorter rods are also lighter, which makes them easier to travel with. Again, the type of fish you want to catch also determines rod length. Using lighter lures means using shorter rods. You would need longer rods if you want to catch bass and other larger and faster fish.
Types of Handle
The two most common types of handles are corks and foams or EVA. While corks are more comfortable, they are more expensive than foam/EVA. While the latter is seen to be, in the long run, more durable and does not wear down quickly, cork is seen by most anglers as more pleasing aesthetically. Aside from this, though, you need to make sure that your baitcaster combo handle is comfortable for your grip.
Rod Material
If you’re a beginner, the best rod to choose is the lightest one. This is a good starting rod, as it does not tire you out immediately and would allow you to detect bites better. Graphite rods are lighter and therefore good for beginners. Fiberglass rods, on the other hand, are better when you fish by towing your line from your boat. This is because fiberglass rods are more rigid and could handle heavier and faster types of fish.
Rod Action
Identifying the part of your rod that bends the most is important in fishing. The closer the bending is to the rod’s tip, the “faster” it is. Beginners often prefer medium-fast level than slow action rod, because the former does not give too much strain.
Rod Guides
Choose rod guides that are durable and strong, especially if you are fighting bass or larger types of fish. This can best be achieved by metallic-made guides. Aluminum guides or titanium guides are preferred by beginners as they give the best environment for friction reduction and heat reduction, thereby improving the cast’s smoothness.
Aside from the factors mentioned above, it is also important to consider the number of pieces (single-piece advised for beginners) and storage (choose rods that can easily be stored and transported).
Using the Best Baitcaster Combo
Using a baitcaster can get a bit tricky especially if it’s your first time. A lot of things could go wrong like your line getting loose, creating a “bird’s nest” where the line gets messed up, loops, or tangles and even snapping off the rod. Here are important steps on how to use a baitcaster:
Recognizing the Essential Parts
- Handles – handles are responsible for moving gears inside the baitcaster and turning the spool.
- Drag Control/ Star Drag – a starfish-shaped knob located on the right side of the reel. This helps in controlling backlashes by tightening or loosening the drag.
- Tension knob – a button that allows the spool to get tighter or looser.
- Brakes – unique to a baitcasting reel, the brakes are located on the side and can be accessed easily by the angler’s hand. It controls the rate of acceleration of the spool quickly. Magnetic brakes are commonly used.
- Foot – what sets a baitcaster different from a spinning reel is that the foot is fixed on the top of the rod and not the bottom. You need to ensure that it is solid, durable, and firmly fixed on the rod.
- Spool – this is where the fishing line is stored and held in place. The first thing you should do is to ensure that the spool has a smooth surface and is free of any obstructive material. If you spool a line incorrectly, it might tangle, or, worse, break.
- Baitclicker – when you increase tension, you might hear a clicking sound. This serves as a prompt that a fish takes the lure. Sometimes, however, it also means that the lure bumps into something or is caught up on something.
Casting
- Adjust the tension knob. Before making a cast, you would want to make sure that the tension knob is adjusted correctly. To do this, press the button to start free-spooling. Allow the lure to hit the ground and check if there is birdnesting, backlashing, or tangling. If the line gets messed up, adjust the tension knob by loosening it or tightening it until no birdnesting occurs. Again, this is important before making any cast.
- Allow the lure to come down eight to ten inches from the rod tip before casting. Make sure that you also thumb down the spool lightly when you are casting to avoid any backlash. Stop the spool as soon as the lure hits the water.
- Do either an overhead cast or a side-arm cast. For beginners, a side-arm cast is advised. When making a cast, imagine making a nice arc (the tip of the rod is seemingly tracing a semi-circle) instead of just going from one point to another point.
Troubleshooting Backlashes
Sometimes, birdnesting and backlashing occurs when spool tensions are not adjusted correctly or there was a problem in casting. This is oftentimes unavoidable for beginners, so part of knowing how to use the baitcaster is knowing how to troubleshoot in case backlashes happen.
- Make sure that you put your thumb on the pool. Again, to prevent backlashing, make sure that you put light pressure on the pool with your thumb once the lure touches the water.
- Make sure your centrifugal and magnetic brakes are on. Adjust the brakes and do not set the magnetic brakes to zero as this causes birdnesting. It is also important that your centrifugal brakes are also on along with the magnetic brakes as they stop the initial backlash.
- If you want to cast farther distances, consider loosening up the tension knob a bit. When the tension knob is too tight, you would not be able to cast long distances. Loosening it up, and training your thumb to control the spool, would allow far-distant casting.
- To clear a backlash, make sure that you do not pull too hard, because it will just tangle the line further and you might end up not being able to detangle it at all! Just pull the line very gently until you see the line detangling. Pull the u-shaped loops gently to clear the backlash.
- Use the push-and-twist method. Put pressure on the pool using your thumb and make a half-turn with the handle. Repeat this until all the tangles are fixed. Make sure that you do not crimp the nylon too much as this makes it weaker and might ruin it, or, worse, break the line.
Our picks for the best baitcaster combo
Since it’s important to choose the appropriate baitcaster combo for your fishing needs, we’re giving you a list of our top five picks to help you decide:
1. KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
With its spools made out of aluminum and its carbon-infused frames, this fishing rod is lightweight and does not give too much strain to your wrist, especially if you are a beginner. You can choose from among varying lengths and different power ratings (which could range from light to medium-heavy), so it’s pretty versatile and works best if you’re still trying to figure out what combo best fits you.
Its comfortable handle prevents slips and even in wet conditions, you can easily grip and control the rod. Its two-piece construction also makes it easier to transport and store. It allows you to choose from among different elegant colors, action, power, and reel sizes.
Pros
- Smooth reel and comfortable rod
- Lightweight
- A lot of choices of action and power
- Spool tension knobs are easy to adjust and the design is intuitive
Cons
- Orientation of the reel may get a bit confusing
- Rod tip could be more durable
2. Lew’s Fishing Mach Crush Speed Spool Combo
What’s remarkable about this baitcaster combo is its multi-setting brake. It features a click-dial that you can externally set to adjust the magnetic brake. At the same time, you can adjust its centrifugal brakes using the disk-mounted brake shoes that are individually dis-engageable. Its reel can provide drawing power up to 20 lbs. Made out of aluminum, its spool tension knob is user-friendly, as it produces an audible click when adjusted.
Its graphite frame makes it durable while maintaining sensitivity. Its handle’s unique design makes it comfortable to use as well.
Pros
- Efficient brake system
- User-friendly tension knob
- Great for beginners with its versatile features
- Casting is smooth
- Stylish design, lightweight feel
Cons
- Rod has the tendency to break the line, which is disorienting for some users
3. Abu Garcia Pro Max Combo
If you want a lightweight design for your fishing rod, then you might be looking for this baitcaster combo. Combined with its durability, sensitivity, and smooth drag, it uses a Power Disk system to create a powerful reel. Its 24-ton graphite build would help you feel even slight movements, making it very responsive. It also has a Magtrax brake feature, so you do not need to worry about accuracy or pressure – something good especially for beginners.
Although you might find that it would take time to get used to its configuration, you will eventually enjoy its features once you have familiarized how to use it.
Pros
- 24-ton graphite rod provides better strength and sensitivity
- Stainless steel bearings for the reel, MagTrax brake, and power disk system
- Great for beginners with its versatile features
- Lightweight and comfortable to use
Cons
- Rod can be difficult to transport and store
4. Tailored Tackle Bass Fishing Baitcasting Combo
As previously mentioned, tangling and backlashes can happen when using a baitcaster combo. However, this baitcaster solves that problem with its east-to-cast Pop-Off baitcaster reel system. This allows users to open the reel up easily and fix tangles quickly. With its rod reaching up to 7 feet, it features a sensitive tip that makes you feel every slight movement. Its gear ratio is 6.3:1 which is the most versatile gear ration whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
More affordable than the previous product, it uses a magnetic braking system. With its size and length, it can handle a variety of fish with ease. One drawback is that it offers only a two-piece version and is exclusively made for right-handed anglers.
Pros
- Versatile gear ratio
- Could easily fix tangles and backlashing
- Excellent length
- Sensitive rod tip
Cons
- Right handed only and not reversible
- Comes only in 2-piece version
5. Berkley Big Game Baitcast Combo
Unlike the previous baitcaster combos, this one features 6 ball bearings plus another roller bearing, making casting smoother than other baitcasters. Made out of graphite, this combo is lightweight and therefore does not tire you out even if you use this for a longer time. Because of its aluminum material for the spool, there is no excess weight but at the same time, strength is maintained.
Its versatility is also made evident by how it can accommodate any type of line because of its slow oscillation. This baitcaster combo is more appropriate for deep-sea fishing.
Pros
- Versatile rods
- No excess weight
- Durable material for reels and rods
- Smooth cast because of ball bearings
Cons
- While rod is of good quality, there can be a better baitcaster pair
Tips for beginners in using the best baitcaster combo
Using the baitcaster for the first time can admittedly be very difficult. There are a lot of issues you need to deal with: from bird nests to tangles to the casting itself. While most baitcaster combos make it easier for its users to deal with these issues, there are still several things that we need to remember to make your first fishing adventure experiences worthwhile and hassle-free.
- Choose lighter baitcasting tackles or lures. Those that weigh around a quarter ounce or lesser are good for beginners. Of course, this would vary depending on where you choose to fish.
- Lighter rods are also better when you’re still starting. You can match your baitcasting reel with a medium-sized rod. This way, you can make sure that the rod is lightweight and at the same time durable.
- Do not forget to keep on adjusting the tension knobs and the braking system. Notice how the lure falls as you adjust the knobs. If it falls smoothly, then the adjustment might be exact. Remember that getting tangled lines is one of the most frustrating things you would experience, so make sure that the tension is adjusted correctly.
- Look for reels with magnetic brakes. Since you’re still starting, find a reel whose magnetic brake controls are found outside of the reel instead of inside, as you might be making constant adjustments. Once you get used to it, though, you can find one with internal brakes.
- Practice how to handle the rod. One common problem for beginners is how to get a grip on the rod. Aside from choosing the rod with the appropriate material, remember to keep the handle right in front of you, pointing forward or very slightly up.
- Even before you go out there and fish, you must first practice. Tie a spinnerbait to your line and observe, making adjustments along the way when you feel like something is off. Practicing yourself on how to properly cast could also help.
- Stay away from the crowd. Give yourself enough space so that you can focus on your learning. Choosing the correct location will also prevent possible accidents. Since you have not mastered casting yet, you do not want to snag other anglers with your lure as you are practicing
- Enjoy the process. Do not get frustrated when you get a lot of backlashes or tangles. They are all part of the process of learning, and no great angler immediately started being great. If you are willing to learn, invest your time, effort, and patience in practice. In no time, you will start doing things naturally without even thinking too much about it.
Final Thoughts
Fishing for the first time can indeed get intimidating. That’s why this guide helps you not only in choosing the correct baitcaster combo, but also some tips on how to use and adjust one. It is a matter of choosing something that you are comfortable with and which you think you can handle effectively.
Our top five picks provide you with a variety of options and it depends on the location where you wish to fish, the types of fish you want to catch, and how much time, effort, and money that you want to spend on learning how to use a baitcasting reel.
Surely, mastering this skill begins with trying, so do not be afraid to invest on the correct material and start practicing. With the correct baitcaster combo, paired with some knowledge on helpful tips, you can make your fishing experience fun and less frustrating.
Nowadays, you can also get good fishing rods at an affordable price. You just need to spend time in searching for them. Remember, the price of a good quality rod does not mean the quality of it.