Saltwater fishing is an amazing experience. It has so much to offer to anglers. The touch of the ocean breeze, the happiness of getting a big catch, and the feeling of complete freedom, everything feels great.
When going for saltwater fishing, you should go prepared. To put it differently, you cannot use your freshwater fishing gear for saltwater fishing. That’s because freshwater fishing gears are not meant to handle saltwater environments. It can easily damage your gear just after a few uses. This is why you need to get fishing gear that is specifically designed for saltwater fishing.
Finding the best saltwater rod and reel combo can be an overwhelming task. With so many options available, it often gets hard to decide. If you are having a hard time finding the best saltwater fishing gear, then you have to go to the right place. In this review post, we have shortlisted some of the best saltwater rod and reel combos for beginners to carry on their saltwater fishing trips. So without wasting any time, let’s dive into the details.
Best Saltwater Rod and Reel Combos for Beginners
Here is the list of the best saltwater fishing combos that you can buy for yourself. These are all top-rated products available. Go through the details of each of the products and pick the one that best suits your requirement.
1. Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
When going for saltwater fishing, you need a rod design that is comfortable to use and allows you to tackle well. This fishing rod and reel combo give you a nice grip and balance. It features an ergonomic design that makes it reliable to use.
The rod is durable, while the reel has a metal body that allows it to give you a long-lasting service. With the help of this fishing gear, you can catch even the toughest fishes easily.
Penn Battle II fishing rod and reel comes with five stainless steel bearings which allow for smooth casting and retrieval. Unlike other rod and reel combos, it doesn’t require much maintenance. This is one of the finest fishing gear you can get for saltwater fishing.
Features
- It features an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to use. It offers optimal weight and a nice grip
- The rod has a graphite composite construction, while the reel is made of metal to make it durable and long-lasting
- It comes with a machine –anodized aluminum superline spool that allows you to tie two superliners without any help
- It doesn’t require much maintenance and carries a competitive price tag
Pros:
- Great reel
- Durable and long-lasting
- Comfortable
- Provides good grip
- Ergonomic design
Cons:
- Little troubling
2. Penn Squall Level Wind Reel & Rod Combo
The next best option we have is the Penn Squall Level Wind Rod and Reel combo. This combo is designed to tackle big fishes. If you are looking for a reliable saltwater fishing gear, then this could be the best option for you.
This fishing combo is lightweight and highly comfortable to use. It also gives you a good grip, so that you can tackle your catch properly. With this fishing combo, you can fulfil your dream to catch massive fishes.
This rod and reel combo is different from the other products on the list. Unlike other models, it doesn’t come with a spinning reel. It is made with stainless steel for durability. This is a long-lasting fishing combo that will go a long way.
Due to its stainless body, it is less prone to corrosion. This is one of the best fishing gears ever made. The price you pay for it is worth it.
Features
- It is comfortable to use and is designed to catch big saltwater fish. It comes with a lightweight reel that makes it easier to use
- It provides a comfortable grip to give you a better experience
- This is not only a durable fishing combo but also ultra-sensitive
- This stainless steel gear comes with a high-speed gear ratio in comparison to other brands
- It is equipped with dura-drag washers that eliminate all tension even under heavy drag settings
- It is less prone to corrosion and thus, provides you longer-life service
- It is a strong and reliable multi-purpose saltwater rod and reel set
Pros:
- Comfortable grip
- Less corrosion
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Full metal body
- High on power
Cons:
- Expensive
3. Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
With a 4.0 star rating, this is yet another great choice for your saltwater fishing. This is one of the best fishing combos for money. It provides EVA fore-grip for a comfortable fishing experience. This telescopic fishing rod is lightweight and portable. This makes it easier for you to carry it around.
One of the main features of this fishing combo is that it comes with an interchangeable handle. This allows both right-handed and left-handed people to use it. It has a plastic body but durable enough to last longer.
The good thing about this telescopic rod is that it is available in two different lengths including 10.8ft and 5.9ft. This means you get the chance to pick the right size for you. The rod also comes with a deep and large aluminium spool that has high line capacity.
The rod is made of high-quality graphite so that you can feel even the smallest strikes. With this telescopic fishing rod, you can have enhanced fishing experience. But before you decide to invest in it, you need to take a look at its features.
Features
- It gives you EVA fore-grip for comfortable fishing. This is a portable fishing rod that can be carried wherever you want
- It comes with interchangeable handles so that both left-handed and right-handed people can use it
- It has perfect elasticity and carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass that makes this fishing rod durable and long-lasting
- It is available in two different lengths including 5.9ft and 10.8ft
- It has a deep and large spool made of aluminium with high line capacity
- It also features an instant anti-reverse mechanism for higher strength
- The guides are made of aluminium oxide which is resistant to corrosion
- The rod is made of sensitive graphite that allows you to feel even the slightest strikes
Pros:
- Affordable
- Portable
- Sensitive
- Durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- Available in two lengths
Cons:
- The reel seat can get loose after use
4. Penn Pursuit II & III Spinning Fishing Reel & Rod Combo
If you are looking for a reliable fishing rod and reel combo, then your search ends here. This fishing combo is designed and tested for saltwater use. With this fishing combo, you can be all set to catch deep saltwater fishes. Penn has always been a leading brand supplying fishing rods and this one is no exception.
One of the best features of this combo is that it comes with a soft cork handle and EVA grips. The rod is made of high-quality graphite for durability. At the same time, it is also lightweight which allows you to carry it wherever you want. Unlike other fishing rods, this is resistant to corrosion.
This fishing combo is particularly designed for saltwater fishing. It gives you smooth retrieval with its techno-balanced rotor. Due to all these features, you can easily expect high performance from this fishing combo.
As far as smoothness is concerned, it has 4+1 ball bearings made of stainless steel. It also has instant anti-reverse to enhance the smoothness of the fishing rod. Users who have already used the combo have given it high ratings.
Features
- This fishing combo is tested and prepared for saltwater fishing
- It comes with an EVA grip and soft cork handle that helps enhance your fishing experience
- It is constructed of graphite, but the poles are lightweight. This is a durable fishing combo that is designed to give you long-lasting service
- It is a non-corrosive fishing rod, so you shouldn’t have problems using it in saltwater environments
- It has a techno-balanced rotor that gives you a smooth retrieve
- This fishing combo is designed to give you a smooth performance which is resulted from its anti-reverse mechanism and 4+1 stainless steel ball bearings
Pros:
- Durable
- Smooth performance
- Comfortable grip
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Fisheye missing at the tip
5. Okuma Tundra Surf Spinning Combo
Next in the line, we have Okuma Tundra Surf Spinning Combo. This ergonomic fishing rod and reel combo have a lot to offer. It comes with all the important features that you would want in your saltwater fishing combo. In comparison to other rods, this one is longer. But Okuma has made it comfortable with EVA padding. This also prevents the rod from slipping from your grip.
The fishing rod has a fiberglass body which makes it both flexible and lightweight. The graphite construction makes it resistant to corrosion. With the help of this fishing combo, you can enjoy a smooth fishing experience.
Unlike other fishing rods in the list, this one comes with just one bearing but it is made of high-quality materials. The fishing combo comes with a multi-disc oil-filled drag system that allows the reel to perform smoothly. This fishing combo has proved to be a great asset for anglers. If you want reliable performance, then this could be the one for you.
Features
- It features an ergonomic design which makes it easier for you to use the rod
- This is a long fishing rod with EVA padding so that you can use it comfortably. It also gives you a good solid grip
- It comes with a fiberglass rod body that makes it more flexible and lightweight
- It is made of graphite which makes it extra durable and resistant to corrosion
- It comes with 6 aluminium oxide guides with ceramic inserts for smooth line transition
- It has double footed and reinforced guides that add stability
- It comes with a multi-disc oil-filled drag system that helps the reel perform smoothly
Pros:
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- Smooth performance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Requires more maintenance
- A bit stiff
6. Penn Fierce II & III Spinning Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
We have yet another fishing combo from Penn. When it comes to saltwater fishing, Penn products serve to be the best. Although this fishing combo was released back in 2015, it is still quite popular among the users. It is a high performance, a lightweight fishing rod that is designed to be used in saltwater environments.
Along with its sturdy design, it gives you EVA grip so that you can enjoy a wonderful fishing experience. Aluminium oxide inserts and stainless steel guides make it more durable. This makes the perfect choice for someone who’s looking for a long-lasting fishing rod and reel combo.
It has an all-metal body, extra bearing, aluminium bail wire, and superline spool with a techno-balanced rotor. All this improves the functionality of the fishing rod.
This is a high-quality fishing combo available at a value price. If you are looking for something within your budget and want it to give you great performance, then this could be your call. But before that, you should once check out the features of the fishing combo.
Features
- This is a lightweight and sturdy fishing combo that is designed for saltwater fishing
- It has an EVA grip that provides you a computable hold over the fishing rod
- The graphite composite blank is paired with aluminium oxide inserts and stainless steel guides for extreme durability
- It comes with five ball bearings for quick spins. The superline spool ensures that no knots are formed in the cord. This allows the cord to move perfectly
- This is a high-quality fishing combo available at an affordable price
Pros:
- Great performance
- Durable
- Well-balanced
- Sturdy design
- Affordable
Cons:
- No guide on the back piece
- A bit heavier
7. Sougayilang Saltwater Rod And Reel Combo Kit
Lastly, we have the Sougayilang rod and reel combo which is designed for experienced anglers. If you are looking for a high-quality fishing combo, then this could be the one for you. The combo comes in a suitcase so that you can keep all the stuff organised while fishing. It also makes it easy for you to carry it around.
This fishing rod is constructed of carbon-fiber and therefore, it is super durable and lightweight. It makes use of a high quality chromed stainless steel guide that makes it long-lasting. The reel comes with a die-cast aluminium body for durability.
Considering all the features this fishing combo has, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that this set is made to give you a greater fishing experience. If you are looking for an easy to operate fishing combo, then this could be the one for you.
To make your purchase risk-free, it comes with a one year warranty. This is a long-lasting fishing combo equipped with all the right features you would need. The good thing is that it is also quite affordable.
Features
- This fishing combo comes packed in a suitcase containing a 2.5ft fishing rod, a fishing line, tapered leader, backing line, braided loop connectors, fly fishing box, 12 pieces fly fishing flies, a fishing rod bag, and 5/6wt aluminium alloy fishing reel. The suitcase makes it easier for you to keep everything organised and also carry it along with you
- The fishing rod is made of carbon-fiber that makes it lightweight and more durable
- For longevity, it has a high quality chromed stainless steel guide
- The reel comes with a die-cast aluminium body that is made to last longer
- It has a treated steel control that prevents friction
- It comes with a sensitive blank along with machined-anodized aluminum reel seat that makes it easy to use
- This fishing rod gives you a smooth drag and greater accuracy
- This is a long-lasting fishing combo that requires minimum maintenance
Pros:
- Complete fishing combo
- Easy to operate
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Reel and line not good enough
Buying Guide for Best Saltwater Fishing Rod & Reel Combos for Beginners
There are a few important things you need to consider before buying a fishing rod and reel combo. If you are a beginner, it is safe to assume that you have less or no knowledge about fishing combos. To help you out, we have laid down a detailed buying guide below. Let’s begin with a fishing rod first.
Things to Consider when Buying a Fishing Rod:
- Size
Fishing rods are available in different sizes. The most preferred size by anglers is 9 or 10 feet in length. This pole size is perfect for saltwater fishing. The advantage of using longer rods is that they allow you to cast further and deeper in the water. Not just that but they also keep fishing lines out of the surf. You need to choose the size based on the location where you are going fishing. Lastly, it should also depend on what you are comfortable using. For beginners, it can be tough to handle a long fishing pole.
- Weight
A good fishing rod comes with the perfect balance of strength and weight. However, you are advised to settle for a lightweight fishing rod as it will be easier for you to use it. A lighter rod can also detect the strikes earlier. This is why they are considered to be better than heavier blanks.
- Material
Fishing rods are made of different materials, each of which has its advantages. The most common materials used are fiberglass or graphite composite. Both the materials make fishing rods sturdy and flexible. Not just that but they also make it highly durable and efficient, exactly what you are looking for. Whether you are a pro or a beginner, you should always go for graphite or fiberglass materials.
- Handle
Fishing rod handles are one of the most important things to consider. The last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable using the handle. When buying a fishing rod make sure that the handle is comfortable to hold and also it provides a secure grip. You should avoid buying gears with poor design and the ones that are made of cheap materials.
- Reel seat
Another important thing to consider is the reel seat. You are advised to go for a high-quality reel seat as the cheaper ones loosen with time. If that happens, while fishing, your reel will get loose. This is why you need a durable reel seat that can lock your reel tightly in place.
Things to Consider when Buying a Fishing Reel:
- Type
There are different types of fishing reels available out there. However, you need to make your choice based on your requirement. While choosing a reel-type, you should keep in mind the following factors: durability, corrosion resistance, and strong drag. This will help you find the right reel type that you need.
- Drag system
The next important thing is the drag system. Most of the modern reels cast around 300 ft. so instead of settling for a long spool reel, you should aim at getting a great drag. This will give you a better fishing experience.
- Weight
Reel weight is also an important factor to consider. You need to make sure that the reel weight is comfortable to work with. After all, you wouldn’t want strained hands at the end of the day. The best thing to do is to get a lightweight reel that will be easy to work with. This applies to both beginners and experienced anglers.
- Bearings
When buying a fishing reel, you should always go for the one that comes with 4 to 5 bearings. This will give you good control and also a great performance. However, at the same time, you also need to consider the quality of the bearings. You should completely avoid getting cheap quality bearings as they are not good enough.
Conclusion
Finding the best fishing rod and reel combo set can be easier if you know the right things to look for. The products mentioned in this post are all top-rated ones. They are good for both experienced anglers and beginners. But most importantly, they are specially made for saltwater fishing.