If as an angler you are planning to up your fishing game, it is essential to be careful with what you purchase. One of the biggest purchases is of a baitcasting combo.
Unlike spinning reel, a Baitcaster combo is more accurate in getting you the perfect fish. So, all you need is the best Baitcaster combo to level up your skills.
These combos are versatile to help you catch a variety of fishes. Understandably, there are plenty of amazing options you can find online but you need to focus on the one with great power, suitable length, and amazing line capacity.
Let’s take a look at some of the popular and worthy recommendations.
10 Best Baitcaster Combos – Review
1. Lew’s MCISHL70MH – Best Overall
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- Rod Length: 7 feet
- Ball Bearing: 9 + 1
- Power: Medium/Heavy
This is the best overall product on the list because of all the amazing features it has got. The 7-feet long rod is low-profile and made of graphite material to give lightweight and durability to the rod.
You get 10 bearing system with double-shielded ball bearings and a zero-reverse one-way clutch bearing. Furthermore, there is a double anodized aluminum U-shape spool and solid brass main gear in high strength.
Talking about the multi-setting brake system, this one has got externally adjustable dual cast control system that uses an external click-dial for setting and 4 individual disk-mounted internal brake shoes that works on centrifugal force.
The reel has rugged carbon fiber drag system that gives 20-pounds of drag power. And the handle of this model is also extremely comfortable for long-time fishing expeditions. The medium/heavy power will help you effectively catch decently sized fishes.
This is a high-performance product made with uncompromised assortment of materials and extremely high standards. The only concern with it is the high price of the combo.
Pros:
- Suitable length and very smooth in casting
- Extremely durable
- Very comfortable handle
- Comes with carbon fiber drag system
Cons:
- Expensive
2. Sougayilang Baitcaster Combo – Best Budget
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- Rod Length: 5.9 – 7.9 feet
- Ball Bearing: 9 + 1
- Power: Medium
So, this one is the best affordable baitcaster combo on the list. It is available on the most decent price and in two different rod sizes of 5.9-feet and 7.9-feet. The rod has got perfect elasticity as it is constructed from a composition of carbon fiber and fiberglass material.
To increase its durability, you get stainless steel hooded reel seats, aluminum spool, and high-quality guided rings. The product is absolutely anti-seawater corrosion so you can use it in saltwater as well. The working is also pretty smooth with 9 + 1 ball bearings.
Another great thing about this product is that it comes with a variety of accessories and components including a fishing rod, a fishing reel, a carrier bag, fishing line, fishing lures, fishing hooks, and some other accessories. As you can see, this is one of the most resourceful purchases you can make.
The portability is ensured with ultra-thin streamline designed body of the product. Lastly, it is designed with EVA foregrip handle for comfort. It is a great product except that it will need some skills to fit the rod.
Pros:
- Available on the most affordable price
- EVA foregrip handle
- Very smooth in working
- Comes with a variety of accessories
Cons:
- A bit complex mechanism of fitting the rod
3. Ugly Stik Elite – Best Beginner Baitcaster Combo
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- Rod Length: 6 feet 6 inches
- Ball Bearing: 2 + 1
- Power: Medium/Heavy
This one is surely the best beginner baitcaster combo mainly because it comes with two-thumb casting which is easy to handle than the single thumb casting.
The 6-inch 6-feet graphite rod is extremely durable and lightweight. Plus, it comes in one-piece rod to increase the rigidness. It comes in medium/heavy power to help in catching big as well as small fishes of different species.
Furthermore, the machined aluminum ported spool is very efficient in working. Also, it is completely safe to use in saltwater due to the anti-corrosion properties. Then there are 2 ball-bearings which definitely make the functioning simple but will not smoothen the casting.
The handle is also of made of aluminum material. However, it won’t be very comfortable but since the beginners won’t be fishing for a very long time, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Pros:
- Two thumb casting for easy application
- Durable and lightweight
- Suitable for big and small fishes
- Comes with anti-corrosion properties
Cons:
- Handle is not extremely comfortable
- The working is not very smooth
4. Lew’s Mach 11 – Best Lightweight
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- Rod Length: 7 feet – 7 feet 3 inches
- Ball Bearing: 2 + 1
This one is a highly promising and the best lightweight baitcaster combo on our list. The net weight of the product is 7-ounce and is very convenient to transport.
The construction of the rod is done with graphite material with nano technology. Plus, it features SoftTouch graphite skeletal reel seats and stainless-steel guides plus aluminum oxide inserts.
The anodized spool tension also adds to the durability quotient of the baitcaster. The durable Rulon drag system has the tendency to undertake 15-pounds of total weight.
Furthermore, to ensure the smooth working of the rod, it comes with 10 bearing system with double shielded stainless-steel construction.
The handle has Dri-Tac polymer split grips for improved control and less hand fatigue. About the drawback of this product, it is not suitable for saltwater usage.
Pros:
- Most lightweight baitcaster combo
- Very smooth functioning
- Comfortable handle
- Double shielded bearing system
Cons:
- Not recommended for saltwater fishing
5. Kastking Crixus – Best Durable
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- Rod Length: 6 feet
- Ball Bearing: 5 + 1
- Power: Medium
Undoubtedly, this one is the most durable product on the list as the construction is ensured with IM6 graphite blank material. It is one of the best graphite material types for robust construction.
Furthermore, you get carbon infused frames and CNC aluminum spool for more promising quality of the overall product. Then there are zirconium oxide rings and stainless-steel guide frames for smooth casting and high performance.
There are 5 + 1 ball bearings that help in making the working as seamless as possible. While this model comes in 2-piece rod, you get the stiffness of one-piece rod with the power transition system. However, it is pretty easy to travel with this product.
Lastly, you get golf style super polymer handle for the most comfortable grip. This is definitely the best baitcasting rod and reel combo with just one drawback of lack of warranty.
Pros:
- Made of extremely durable composition of materials
- Smooth working
- Comes with power transition system
- Easy to travel
Cons:
- No warranty
6. Abu Garcia BMAX3/661M – Best Baitcaster Combo with Power Disk System
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- Rod Length: 6 feet 6 inches
- Ball Bearing: 4 + 1
- Power: Medium
Now, this particular product comes with power disk system which largely impacts the drag system and help in smooth functioning. This will be very effective for the beginners.
About the construction of the product, the rod frame is made with 100% graphite material. It is very lightweight. Also, the side plates are made of graphite material.
There are 4 stainless steel ball bearings and a roller bearing for smooth performance of the product. The rod is made of one-piece so it is a bit on the stiff side. However, the medium power rating makes it suitable for small to medium-sized fishes.
The MegaTrax brake system exerts constant brake pressure to amplify the accuracy. This one is a fantastic product and priced suitably.
What you may not like is that does not have a lot of flexibility and might snap on a bit of harsh handling.
Pros:
- Comes with power disk system
- Smooth in performance
- MegaTrax brake system
Cons:
- Will snap on a bit of harsh handling
7. Lew’s Laser MG – Standard Baitcaster Combo
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- Rod Length: 6 feet 6 inches – 7 feet
- Ball Bearing: 7 + 1
- Power: Medium/Heavy
If you want a basic baitcaster combo then pick this one as it comes with standard features. The frame is constructed with graphite composite material to ensure the lightweight of the product. Also, it is decently durable.
Another thing that contributes to the overall performance of the product is aluminum spool which makes it suitable for saltwater usage.
The smoothness of the rod is ensured with double shielded stainless-steel bearing system that comes with 7 + 1 ball bearings.
It comes with medium/heavy power so it will be able to pick on the medium to heavy fishes. As far as the handle is concerned, you get split grip EVA handle for comfortable prolonged usage.
The problem with this model is that one-piece construction makes it difficult to transport and move to the fishing location.
Pros:
- Graphite composite construction
- Lightweight product
- Comes with extremely comfortable handle
- Medium/heavy power for heavy fishes
Cons:
- Difficult to transport
8. Abu Garcia PMAX3/661M – Baitcaster Combo for High Resistance Loads
No products found.
- Rod Length: 6 feet 6 inches
- Ball Bearing: 7 + 1
- Power: Medium
It is because of the MagTrax brake system that helps in long-range casting of crankbait and high-resistance loads. This way, the reel and rod are meant to deliver exceptional performance and major sensitivity.
The drag system is also very smooth and bearing system makes the overall casting process very effortless as there are 7 + 1 stainless-steel ball bearings. However, these are not shielded so you are suggested to not use these in saltwater as they may corrode.
Pros:
- Suitable for high resistance loads
- Comes with great sensitivity
- Smooth working
- Seamless drag system
Cons:
- The bearing system is not shielded
9. Ugly Stik USCA662M/LPCB0 – Most Comfortable Baitcaster Combo
No products found.
- Rod Length: 6 feet 6 inches
- Ball Bearing: 1
- Power: Medium
The double paddle aluminum handle makes this product extremely comfortable in holding. You can hold it for prolonged hours without feeling any fatigue.
The other features include robust constructed with graphite material. This product is very efficient in handling extra pressure.
Also, with medium power, you can expect it to catch medium-sized fishes. This one is available in a decent price as well. However, the one lagging point in it is that it comes with only one ball bearing so the function is not very smooth.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable handle
- Available on a very suitable price
- Robust construction
Cons:
- Functioning is not too smooth
10. Lew’s American Hero – Baitcaster Combo with High Sensitivity
No products found.
- Rod Length: 7 feet
- Ball Bearing: 4 + 1
- Power: Medium/Heavy
So, this model has high sensitivity and it helps in detecting even the lightest of the bites on the fishing rod. The length of 7-feet is absolutely suitable for distant casting and it comes with medium/heavy strength.
The construction is done with graphite material to ensure that the rod does not weighs a lot. Furthermore, there are gunsmoke stainless-steel frame and stainless-steel inserts.
The 4 + 1 bearing system makes working of the product decently smooth. Lastly, the magnetic control system is very functional and helps in relieving the pressure on hand while pressing the brakes. It makes overall functioning very simple.
The drawback is the because of one-piece construction, the transportation of the product becomes a bit troublesome.
Pros:
- Comes with high sensitivity
- Durable construction
- Smooth functioning
- Comfortable brake system
Cons:
- Transporting can be a bit challening
How to Buy the Best Baitcaster Combo
This baitcaster combo review is dedicated to help you through the purchase process. Let’s take a look at the features to keep in check while purchasing the right product.
1. Frames
The first thing you should consider while purchasing the best baitcaster combo is the frame. The durability of the combo largely depends on the frame.
Technically, you can find the frames constructed in two prime materials:
Aluminum
If you go towards the higher spending side, you get frames made of aluminum material. Certainly, these are very lightweight and yet can handle more beating than any other material.
Also, aluminum is more durable than graphite and since its rigid, it will not flex under heavy loads or more tension.
Graphite
Most of the frames that are on the less expensive side are made of graphite material. It is anti-oxidization unlike metal frames. You will be able to use these in saltwater and freshwater.
Moreover, the material has excellent strength to weight ratio. It is a widely considered material in baitcaster combos, especially with the beginners.
Our best recommendation for the graphite baitcaster combo is the Ugly Stik Elite baitcaster combo.
Buying Advice: Aluminum is more durable choice to make and will be equally as functional as graphite material. Our vote goes with aluminum material.
2. Brakes
The next big thing to turn your focus to is the brake system which is responsible for the rotation capability of spool while casting the bait.
You can find two practical options in these, the one that allow the spool to spin freely and other that restrain the spinning. However, once you have enough practice to thumb spool the cast acceptably, the need of brake system will seem less significant.
3. Ball Bearings
First of all, the role of ball beatings is to reduce the friction while casting. You see, as the number of ball bearings increase, your casting becomes smoother.
Therefore, it is among the most crucial features to check, especially while buying the best baitcaster combo for beginner as they are less on practice and will definitely appreciate less things to cause complexity while casting.
Since these are too important, you should check for the ones that are shielded so that they can last longer. Therefore, always see if the ball bearings are shielded or sealed. It will help in safeguarding the overall life of the bearings.
The finest recommendation with maximum shielded ball bearings is the Sougayilang baitcaster combo as it comes with 9 + 1 shielded stainless-steel ball bearings.
4. Spools
The spool material is also of high significance as it is one of the more functional parts of a baitcaster combo. You should prefer purchasing a combo with aluminum spool. It is very durable and functional. Also, these are non-corroding and rusting so you can expect some great work from it.
Now, the next things to notice about a spool is that it should have holes in them which basically makes it lighter in weight and easy to start and stop from spinning.
5. Handle
The whole thing comes down to where the rod is held from. Well, you need to focus on the handle and ensure that it is comfortable enough so that you can hold them comfortably for prolonged hours.
While you can find a variety of materials in the handles, you should prefer rubber over any other as its softness makes the rod easy to hold.
How to Cast a Baitcaster
You need to understand the method of casting a baitcaster. Here is a step by step guideline.
- First thing that you need to ensure is the length of the rod. It should be between 6-foot 6-inches to 7-foot in length and medium/heavy in power.
- In order to learn the basics, you should always choose heavy line. The advised line weight is between 15 – 17-pounds. This tip is especially for the beginners as it will make baitcasting easy in the initials. Plus, this will also prevent backlashes.
- Since different manufacturer’s have given different mechanism of setting up the reel, you are recommended to follow the manual to properly set up the star drag and spool tension.
- Then, take the rod to the water and hold it horizontally while depressing the thumb bar and ensuring the dip the lure gently. You can do the test run on the ground to check the spool tension before casting.
- Now, bring the rod back close to the shoulder and make your preparation of casting.
- Use your thumb to depress the thumb bar and maintaining the pressure on spool. Make sure that as you depress the thumb bar, the line will be released automatically.
- You are ready to aim for target. So, apply pressure on the spool using your thumb and make sure to prevent over-winding of the spool. This will help in avoiding the backlash.
- Then, start to release the pressure to feather back the line during the remainder of the cast. Then, you should reel at least two times to start the anti-reverse. You are not ready to fish.
Conclusion
We would like to conclude the baitcaster combo review with the best product recommendations. Well, the Lew’s MCISHL70MH baitcaster combo is the best overall product as it has appropriate length of 7-feet and extremely smooth in working with 9 + 1 ball bearings. The performance of the product is very impressive.
The next best you can consider for purchase is the Kastking Crixus baitcaster combo as it has all the essential features entailed by the anglers. Plus, it is extremely durable to be used in freshwater as well as saltwater.
There are plenty of other excellent recommendations. Check them out before buying one. Happy Shopping!
