travel spinning rod and reel

Just in time for Mother's Day, shop our 25 Best Mother's Day Gifts.

FIELD & STREAM+

• Join 1871 Club

The 5 Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Whether you're going on a dedicated trip, or just want to get some casts in during the family vacation, it pays to be prepared

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Travel fishing rods are made for anglers on the go. Wherever you end up, there are new waters to seek out, so the addition of a dedicated travel fishing rod to the arsenal makes sense for aspiring travel anglers. The problem for many years was the lack of quality rods to meet the carry-on restrictions for fishermen traveling on planes. Multi-piece rods were much less common and inferior to more conventional rods; they were also more likely to break.

Thankfully, advances in technology and design have changed the landscape of angling travel. Rod companies are now able to provide traveling anglers with quality options, and the best travel fishing rods fish like their one-piece counterparts. 

• Best Budget & Best Combo: Ugly Stik GX2 Travel Spinning Combo
• Best for Bass: Abu Garcia IKE Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod
• Best for Saltwater: G. Loomis Escape GLX Series
• Best Telescopic: KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Best Fly Rod: Orvis Clearwater

How We Picked the Best Travel Fishing Rods

My first travel-to-fish trip happened when I was seven. We ventured north to fish for northern pike and bass in the Thousand Islands area of the St. Lawrence River. Since that first trip, my wanderlust has persisted, spanning three continents, five countries, eleven states, and three Canadian provinces. I’ve carried rods to all of those places via airline, bush plane, panga, train, car, taxi, subway and hiking boots. In between those adventures, I’ve spent a lot of time talking with fishing industry professionals about travel fishing rods and other assorted gear. Cumulatively, this distilled experience proves highly useful in evaluating travel fishing tackle. While writing this review, I considered the following attributes:

• Fishing Performance—comparative to one-piece rods
• Packability
• Materials and Construction

Best Travel Fishing Rods: Reviews & Recommendations

• Length(s): 5 feet (light power), 6 feet and 6 feet 6 inches (Both medium power) 
• Numbers of sections: 5 foot rod is 3 pieces; others are 4 pieces
• Line Rating: Light: 4-10 pound; Medium: 6-15 pound
• Strong, durable and sensitive graphite and fiberglass construction
• More economical than buying individual components
• Strong and durable Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides
• Shakespeare four-bearing spinning reel, with double anodized aluminum spool
• Cloth rod and reel travel bag offers only cosmetic protection; not suitable for checked luggage.

According to Shakespeare lore, the Ugly Stik received its now world-familiar moniker when a product management executive took one look at the first prototype blanks and said they were the ugliest he’d ever seen. 

The most updated version is more aesthetically appealing, but it hasn’t lost its rugged durability or the signature clear tip segment. The Ugly Stik Travel Combo comes in three lengths and two power options (light and medium). Each rod is fitted with a solid Shakespeare four-bearing reel with oversized bail wire for added durability. And the entire combo is at a price point that won’t break the bank. 

These travel outfits make a solid choice for those trips focused on activities other than angling where you just might be able to fit in a little fishing anyway. They also make excellent entry-level outfits for kids and fishing rods for beginners . From personal experience, I’ll also say that these rods can handle those unexpected trophies that have a knack for biting when you’re just helping the kids catch a few bluegills.

• Length(s): 7 feet
• Numbers of Sections: Four pieces—butt section, midsection and two tip sections for increased versatility
• Tip Sections: medium light—for 1/8 to 5/8 ounce lures and medium for 1/4 to 3/4 ounce lures
• Line Rating: medium light: 6-12 pound; medium: 8-14 pound
• Two tip sections offers great versatility
• Fishes like a one-piece rod
• Excellent sensitivity 
• Doesn’t include a crush-proof case for checked luggage protection

Abu Garcia was smart to partner with Mike “Ike” Iaconelli in designing this rod. Twenty plus years as a bass tournament professional coupled with his additional experience as a city fishing enthusiast provided the ideal experiential foundation for crafting top notch travel fishing rods. 

The Ike Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod is an exceptional value and an incredibly versatile fishing tool. Quality components are a significant part of the winning formula. The rod blanks are constructed from 36-ton graphite and finished rods have stainless steel guides and a high quality reel seat. The use of a continuous graphite ferrule is key to allowing this rod to fish like a one-piece rod. If all of this isn’t enough, then add in the best feature—the versatility provided with interchangeable tips. This combination allows you to fish an extended range of lures and finesse baits. Anglers looking for a more powerful bass fishing tool should consider checking out the casting rod version .

• Length(s): 7 feet in two power options, medium-light and medium
• Numbers of Sections: three
• Line Rating: Medium-light: 6-12 pound; Medium: 10-17 pound
• Multi-taper design offers a superior blend of durability and performance
• Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides
• High quality cork grip
• Light weight
• Difficult to find stock, at the moment

Very rarely will I say that a rod has the potential to enable a competent angler to catch more fish. The G. Loomis Escape GLX rods are an exception to this rule. Hands down, these are some of the finest fishing rods made today.

G. Loomis has been making fishing rods focused on performance since 1982. I bought my first GLX rod in 1999 and I still fish it today; I think that says a lot about both the quality and durability of the GLX line of rods. Loomis’ rod building expertise has led to superior travel rods that compromise nothing in a multi-piece design. Their proprietary Multi-taper Design process strengthens potential break points while reducing material application elsewhere. The result is strength and sensitivity. The Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides used on these rods are amazingly tough and the cork grip provides a comfortable feel over days, months and years of fishing.

These rods are amazingly lightweight, given their strength, durability and ability to subdue large saltwater fish. This lightness in hand translates to greater comfort over a long day of fishing. The last cast of the day feels as effortless as the first.

GLX Escape travel spinning rods are available in two models. The medium power model is what I consider the ideal saltwater rod, able to handle large inshore species such as permit and bull redfish. In freshwater, this rod will handle most of the salmonid species, bass and pike. The medium-light model is also a phenomenal light saltwater rod, ideal for small bonefish, puppy drum and schoolie stripers. This rod is also a great crossover rod, whether for large trout, shad or smallmouth bass.

• Length(s): Casting —7 models from 6 feet, 8 inches to 8 feet; Spinning—7 models from 6 feet, 6 inches to 8 feet
• Numbers of Sections: All models are telescopic
• Line Ratings: 6-25 pound, depending on the model
• Multiple models for diversity and flexibility
• Quality materials and construction
• Quick assembly
• Still not as good as quality multi-piece rods
• Segments can loosen after significant casting/fishing time

Though I’m not a telescopic rod fan, I see the usefulness of the concept, and the KastKing BlackHawk II is the best telescopic rod I’ve seen. These rods are particularly well suited for anglers who need the added convenience provided by a telescopic rod and aren’t logging serious hours of fishing associated with dedicated travel fishing trips. In other words, they’re ideal for when you’re on vacation and, suddenly, you have an hour or two to go fishing.

KastKing has provided an outstanding array of options, in both casting and spinning rod models. This selection is a great service for potential customers who need to find rods to fit a wide variety of angling scenarios, as well as the inevitable personal preferences.

The BlackHawk II rods are built using KastKing KastFlex 24-Ton Carbon Matrix blanks, with a solid glass tip. Snug-Fit ferrules, stainless steel line guides, graphite reel seats and comfortable EVA handles are used to create a nicely finished rod. 

For more information on telescopic rods, we have a rundown of the best telescopic options out there , as well. 

• Length:  9 feet
• Line Weight:  5
• Action:  Medium-Fast
• Pieces:  4
• Warranty:  25-Year
• A bit heavy

The Orvis Clearwater took home the best value award in our fly rod test last year and was a favorite among our group of editors and testers. For starters, the Clearwater is one of the more affordable fly rods on the market, and it can hold its own with the premium rods that often see a price tag north of a grand. This rod went head-to-head with all of the top-end models, and after a quick blind-casting test, most of our editors put the Clearwater ahead of our favorite high-end rods.

As for performance, the Clearwater throws tight loops and can reach almost as far as any other rod. It’s a bit cumbersome, and you might get tired after a full day on the water. Anglers can pick up a Clearwater rod in sizes ranging from 2-weight to 12-weight. So no matter what fish you enjoy chasing with a fly, there’s a Clearwater rod for you. And since this is a travel fishing rod story, it’s worth mentioning that the Clearwater is a four-piece rod and can be carried on any plane in a rod tube. —Ryan Chelius

Things to Consider Before Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

Travel fishing can be as exotic as a once-in-a-lifetime globetrotting adventure, or as simple as a subway trip to the city pond or lake. In both scenarios, a more compact, travel-friendly fishing outfit will make transit to the destination easier. Before buying a travel fishing rod, consider what species of fish you’re targeting, spatial limitations, mode of transport and the all important time versus money equation.

Target Species

What type or types of fish will you be chasing, and where will you be fishing? An ideal rod for panfish or trout will be outgunned and frustrating to use when targeting big stripers or redfish. Rods and their counterpart reels (meaning the reel you always use with that rod) may be great in freshwater but not up to the abuse they’ll endure in a marine environment. I like versatility in my gear but not to the point of compromising my overall enjoyment. To this end, I think it best to establish realistic expectations and fully understand what my travel rods can and cannot handle.

Spatial Limitations

The first leg of the journey is a commercial airline behemoth with spacious overhead compartments that will easily accommodate your travel rod case. But the final hop comes via a de Havilland Beaver where space is severely limited. Or, perhaps you’re hiking into the backcountry for a multi-day camping and fishing adventure. In each of these scenarios, spatial limitations are different, and in each case it’s important to identify how compact your travel rod (or rods) need to be. This is a question best asked and answered before you depart.

Mode of Transport

In a perfect world, my rods never leave my oversight when I travel to fish. But often that’s just not realistic. So, I opt to plan for the worst and hope for the best. I like when rods come with a crush-proof case. If they don’t, it’s best to invest in a specialized travel rod case that will accommodate the rod or rods you plan to take. When trips require multiple transfers, the added peace of mind alone merits the investment.

If carrying a rod or rods onto an airplane, I find out the airline’s maximum dimensions for carry-on items. If I have any doubt about carry-on options, I make sure the cased rod I’m traveling with will fit in my checked baggage.

Time versus Money 

This is an important equation that has additional variability based on a person’s disposable income and priorities. I once commented to a guiding client that I thought everyone should have one area of life where they indulge themselves. His response was, “Why just one?”

Realistically though, most anglers need to evaluate how often, and for how long, they’re likely to use a travel rod, and then factor that into their decision about which rod is best for them. An angler who might, or might not, use the rod once a year on a family vacation will want a different rod from the fisherman or woman who embarks upon one or more dedicated destination fishing trips each year.

Q: Can I carry-on a fishing pole?

According to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), fishing rods can be carried on, as long as they meet the airline’s criteria for carry-on items. However, it’s best to always work with the specific airline you’ll be traveling with to fine-tune your carry-on planning. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to also check with air carriers you’ll be flying with in the destination country or countries.  Adhere to their requirements, and your rod should remain in your hands from home to destination and back.

Q: How do you travel with a rod and reel?

I always want to travel with my rods in a hard, crush-proof case and my reels safely stowed in my carry-on fishing bag. Even if my travel rods are compact enough for airline carry-on, I still prefer to carry them in the protective hard case, as plans can sometimes change at the flight check-in. If I have to check the rods, at any point in the journey, I know they’ll be safe. Many people think about the flight process but don’t consider the auto travel on either end of the flight. In my experience, the transition points are when unprotected gear gets broken. Careful packing of your rods and reels extends the safety to these travel transition scenarios. In the “for what it’s worth” column, I’d rather arrive at a fishing destination without my clothes than my rods and reels. But happily this can be avoided by using a change of clothes as padding around your rods in the travel case. This way you arrive with your rods, reels and at least one spare outfit. 

Q: Can you carry-on a 4-piece fly rod?

Yes, most conventional 4-piece fly rods will meet airline criteria for carry-on luggage. I’ve traveled with 4-piece, ten foot fly rods to Chile, Mexico, England and remote north western Canada. I’ve never had any difficulty carrying-on my fly rods. That being said, it’s still always best to check with the airline in-question in advance. If you’re working with an experienced fishing travel service, they can also provide their experience traveling to your destination. For additional thoughts on this topic, check out our in-depth breakdown of the best fly rods .

Q: Can I fly with fishing lures?

According to the TSA, fishing lures are defined as “sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous.” They recommend sheathing or otherwise securing hooks; the lures should then be securely wrapped and packed in your checked baggage. Based on this information, any hooks, lures or flies in your carry-on could be confiscated. For anglers, the problem with this approach is the fear of arriving at a remote fishing destination with nothing to fish. To alleviate this concern, I pack a small selection of must-have flies or lures that I put in my carry-on bag—think of it as an emergency kit. I keep the selection small enough that I can accept the loss if it’s ever confiscated. The bulk of my fishing lures are packed safely in my checked bag and include duplicates of the essentials.

Q: What is the difference between a travel rod and a standard rod?

A travel fishing rod can break down into small sections or telescope into one small piece. A normal fishing rod is often one, two, or four pieces. This makes it a bit more difficult to travel with.

Q: Are travel rods worth it?

Having a fishing rod that can break down into small pieces is definitely worth it. You don’t necessarily need a “travel fishing rod,” but rather something that breaks down into three or four pieces so it’s easier to travel with.

Best Traveling Fishing Rods: Final Thoughts

Whether you’re embarking upon a bucket-list adventure fishing trip or hoping to get in a little fishing while traveling with the family, it all depends on your tackle getting to the destination unbroken and functional. That defines why travel rods have become so important for modern anglers, and the importance extends beyond airline travel. Try carrying a one-piece rod on a busy subway and you quickly realize the value of travel rods for close-to-home fishing. 

Though many travel rods still fall short of their one-piece counterparts’ performance, advances in technologies and economies of scale have closed this gap. In some cases, the best travel fishing rods are indistinguishable from one or two-piece rods. To decide which travel rod is right for you, evaluate your target species, consider spatial limitations, mode of transportation and time versus money. Then, just add water and enjoy the fishing.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Jason sealock.

• Oct 09, 2023

Choosing a travel rod for anglers who like to pack light and carry a fishing rod in their luggage on every where they travel requires a little planning and view of the options and fish you think you might encounter on your travels. We reviewed a wide gamut of rods and came up with a lot of options to consider as well as some great recommendations for which fishing rods we would suggest for a lot of different types of fishing and travel.

Things like size of the rod when disassembled, number of pieces, rod case, roll or bag, type of rod, how you will transport it, whether a telescoping rod makes sense and more need to be considered before choosing the best travel rod for your fishing plans.  

Travel rods can come from 2 pieces up to 5 pieces not to mention the telescoping travel rod options out there. You might want to fit the rod in a suitcase, if so more pieces will break down into a smaller foot print. Or you might carry it with you which might give you more options for rods. You might want a hard case to protect the rod if you’re worried about TSA or some other party damaging your rods in transit. Or a rod wrap may suffice if it’s tucked inside of another hard case suitcase.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Best telescoping travel combo – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Best travel rod for bass – Buy from FishUSA
• Runner up: Daiwa ardito travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best all-around / saltwater travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best telescopic travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Runner up: Ugly stik cx2 4-piece travel combo – Buy from Basspro
• Ark rods genesis rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Zebco 33 spincast telescopic combo – Buy from Basspro
• Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• St. croix triumph travel rod – Buy from Tacklewarehouse

Know Your Travel Rods

Then there are the types of rod to consider including spinning travel rods, casting travel rods, telescoping travel rods as well as travel fly rods or specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or travel trout or panfish rods. Or any combination of the aforementioned.  

If you plan to fish with light lures and light line, then a spinning travel rod might be the best option. If you plan to look for big bluegills or crappies specifically on your travels, then a long telescoping rod might make more sense or a small spinning rod like a trout rod might give you a lot of options for trout and panfish.

If you’re going for larger quarry, you will want a beefier rod that has a reel that can hold heavier line. Usually a baitcasting travel rod makes sense for bass, or big fish like walleye, pike, musky, stripers, etc.  

Specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or extra long jigging rods might be just the ticket for probing unknown waters for specific types of fishing like jigging brush for crappie or casting oversized swimbaits for trophy bass and stripers.  

Of course if you’re in to fly fishing, then a travel fly rod is hard to beat. There are some super high end and middle of the road options that are great rods that make a 9-foot fly rod fit into an over night travel bag with the travel fly rod option.

CONSIDER TELESCOPING RODS FOR TRAVEL

For some, a telescoping rod is an easy spur of the moment travel rod option to probe some nearby waters to see if they have fish available. I have buddies that keep telescoping rods in their trucks at all times and will break it out on their travels or while taking a lunch or after work on a work trip. It’s a quick and simple option.

Most of time telescoping rods are a bit lower quality. Or at least that was the case back when the only option was a low end push button spin cast combo for small panfish. There are, however, some newer options bringing this back as a real viable option for bass and panfish.

A Travel Combo Might Make More Sense

You can buy travel rods that are a rod and reel combo. This is often the case with telescoping options. But there are some better quality options in the multi-piece travel rods with a decent spinning reel. Most of the time. I want the best rod I can get and a good reel in my bag so I’m not fighting my equipment in the limited amount of time I get to fish on my travels. Especially those spur-of-the-moment unplanned fishing trips while traveling.  

But when you get to a location and wished you had a rod and reel, a decent priced telescoping rod/reel combo can get you in the fish on an unexpected hot spot quickly and easily.

You Need a Travel Rod Case, Bag or Roll

Anymore your travel rod is going to come in a hard case, a roll or a bag. Regardless you need to take care to protect the pieces of the rod or the rod while it is compartmentalized so it’s not damaged in your travels.  

A hard case might be a cloth case with a hard shell inside of it that zips closed on the end and the multiple pieces slide into little sleeves inside of it. Or it might be a hard outer shell with a soft interior that keeps your guides and blank parts protected. These are nice when you plan to carry your travel rods separate from your luggage. Or keep them in a vehicle on your travels.

A travel rod roll is just a cloth sleeve with individual pockets for each piece of the blank and then you roll it up with flap that closes on one end and tie it off with the attached ties. These can be nice for putting a rod or two into your other travel bags or a small compartment in your vehicle.

A travel bag can be just a cloth bag or a padded foam bag that houses and protects the rod simultaneously. I’m a fan of these as they keep your pieces from falling out as sometimes happens with rolls. And they keep the blank pieces with a bit of added protection. The padded bags are ideal in my opinion.  

Best Travel Rod Brands

In the freshwater space, the best travel rod makers are often synonymous with the best rod makers. Makers like Daiwa, Shimano, St. Croix, Megabass, Ark Rods, Fenwick, and others have really solid travel rod options. Others that many don’t know offer travel rods have good options like Favorite, Bass Pro, and BnM Poles.  

Here are the travel rod brands we reviewed and liked:

• Favorite Fishing
• B’n’M Poles

Having said all that, let’s take a closer look at some of our personal favorites in various travel rod categories.

Best Telescoping Travel Combo

Daiwa travel combo.

We chose the Daiwa Travel Combo as the best combo because it comes with a good reel, telescoping rod that is better than most and it’s own sling carry bag that is big enough to put several travel rods and reels in. This combo compacts down to 26 inches making it a perfect option for any trip whether it be in a car or a plane.

The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch Medium power fast action rod. It’s a solid rod and stayed extended as we fished with it. The reel is a 2-bearing Daiwa Crossfire LT 2500. Even though it’s only 2 bearings, it performed very smoothly and effortlessly with a very smooth drag. It’s a solid spinning combo and it’s offered in EVA or Cork grips.

The combo costs $149 but if you just want a good combo without messing around with pairing rods and reels, this is a quick easy choice.

Buy at TackleWarehouse

Best Travel Rod for Bass

Shimano zodias travel rod.

The fact that Shimano took one of their best rod lines and converted it into a high-end bass travel rod got me excited. And when I got the new rod in my hand, I was very impressed. I am a big fan of the original Zodias line and was so excited to see this level of quality in a 5-piece travel rod.  

This travel rod condenses down to 19 inches when packed, meaning you can literally take it anywhere. And when full assembled you have a very high quality rod full of all the features of the high end one-piece blanks. The 5-piece construction gives the rod more uniform bend than a 2-piece model would.  

It has so much power and a steady consistent load when casting. You will forget it’s a travel rod by your second cast. It’s a high end rod that just happens to be in 5 pieces. It has a CI4+ reel seat for lightweight strength and a full carbon monocoque grip which eliminates the use of EVA giving a light rod more sensitivity.

Hi-Power X construction which makes the blanks outermost layer wrapped with carbon tape form that X appearance on the blank that gives more precise actions to the rods with more strength.  

You can really lean into fish with this rod without worry. It’s one of the nicest travel rods we’ve tested.

Buy at FishUSA.com

Buy from Omnia

Runner Up: Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

This is another high-end rod that has been brought down to a travel rod form factor. This rod comes with a very nice hard case and it breaks down to 30 inches (32 in its case). It features a V-flex ferrule joint system. These ferrules don’t require you to jam the rod pieces all the way together and then struggle to separate them. You simply push them until they snug together and you are all set. You can break down and put the rod together in seconds and be fishing as fast as you can thread your line.  

The rod has a high-modulus blank, Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides, unsanded micro-pitch blank, split Eva grip and machined nut hood. It’s a high quality rod that pairs nicely with your favorite bait caster. It comes in 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium heavy and 7-foot, 6-inch medium heavy.

Buy at BassPro.com

Best All-Around / Saltwater Travel Rod

St. croix avid trek rod.

This is a finely crafted American rod with incredible blanks offering uniform performance, strength and ultra-perceptive sensitivity. The premium cork full grip, and quality blanks featuring St. Croix’s IPC mandrels, SCII high modulus carbon, slim profile ART ferrules, Sea Guide Hero hi-grade guides with zirconia rings and stainless gun smoke frames, sea guide hook keeper, and a 15-year-transferable warranty.  

This rod can literally do it all. Going to Louisiana to fish the marshes for bass and redfish, this is your rod. Strong, light, smooth, sensitive and easy to pack. The 3-piece rod is 6-foot, 6-inch MH rod with a lot of power but great castability. This rod is a joy to fish with and you can expect it to last a long time with that kind of warranty.

Best Telescopic Travel Rod

Bass pro aventur1 telescoping rod.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Aventur1 telescoping rod. It features 6 sections but 8 guides for uniform castability and a nice line path while fighting fish. The unique guide system has floating guides as well as guides permanently affixed to the rod sections. So you won’t fight with line on the blank on this travel rod.  

The 7-foot medium power rod fished really well and I was pretty taken aback at how nice this rod fished for $59. A rod that will likely always be in my travel plans. With an RT2 graphite blank, Fuji aluminum oxide guides, Fuji reel seat, with EVA split grips and X-Wrap rubber cork butt cap, this is a pretty functional telescoping rod for travel fishing.

Best Big Swimbait Travel Rod

F5 departure travel rods.

The folks at F5 Custom Rods make some of the nicest big swimbait rods available today. These are custom made rods from blanks to handles to accents. They are often very selective in how they build rods and you usually have to get lucky enough to catch a rod on a drop. However, the F5 Departure Travel Rods are often in stock and I picked up a H and XH rod a year or so back.

These are two of my favorite big swimbait rods that I use for crankdowns like the Bull Shad 4×4 and the Toxic Whippersnappers, for glides like the 86 Baits Doomrider, KGB Swimbaits Chad Shad or the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 and of course for my jointed swims like the Bull Shad 8 inch.

The rods are both 3-piece rods and are custom made with a full extra long camo EVA handle. The ones the often sell are split grips. The rod blanks are solid. Even with three pieces I had no issues heaving big baits like the Slide Swimmer which weighs 6 1/2 ounces.

They are going to run you about $289 a piece for these rods. But I am so happy to have them because I can take a pack of my favorite big baits and a very high-end swimbait rod literally everywhere I go to chase trophies all over the country and out of the country for that matter.

Buy at F5 Custom Rods

Best Travel Rod on a Budget

Favorite fishing army geo rod.

This is an impressive rod not only for the price but for how well this 4-piece rod fishes and fights fish. We caught some really quality bass on this rod this spring and it is a legit fun spinning rod to fish. I love that I threw it in my suitcase, loaded up and went to Arkansas and broke it out and caught a bunch of nice bass that were moving shallow to spawn.  

Even my brother-in-law enjoyed fishing with this travel rod. And at $39, it’s a hard rod to pass up. The 4 pieces in their hard travel tube are 26 inches. The pieces are barely 23 inches. The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch medium-heavy spinning rod. I used it to skip Senkos around shallow cover a lot this spring. And it sets a nice hook and has a ton of backbone to land big bass. Our biggest on it was 6 pounds, 4 ounces this spring.

Buy at FavoriteUSA.com

Runner up: Ugly Stik GX2 4-piece Travel Combo

At $44 at Walmart, you can’t go wrong with this nearly indestructible travel rod. The Ugly Stik has been the staple of affordable travel rods. They can take abuse and continue to catch and land fish.  

Buy from Walmart.com

Buy at Scheels

Best Trout Travel Rod

St. croix trout series pack rod  .

For the adventurer who needs a light and packable trout rod to get to remote locations, this is the Cadillac of adventure rods. This rod says trout, but it’s a dynamite bluegill, crappie and even smallmouth rod for remote streams and creeks. It’s a beautifully built rod at only 2.9 ounces and 3 pieces, it compacts down to be no added weight in your backpack.  

I paired it with a small 1000 spinning reel and 4-pound line and really enjoyed fishing this rod a lot. It will become one of my staple creek travel rods now. It throws little baits effortlessly and had a nice backbone for such a light rod. A real joy to fish with.

Buy from FishUSA.com

Best Panfish Telescoping Rod

Bnm poles little mighty telescoping rod  .

I have to admit, I’m a little blow away by this rod. I grew up crappie and bluegill fishing with my father in Florida and Arkansas with telescoping fiberglass rods from B’n’M Poles. So I have a lot of nostalgia when it comes to these types of rod. But the new Little Mighty Rod is something special.

While it’s not technically a travel rod, it’s a telescoping rod that reaches out to 20 feet and breaks down to barely 22 inches. It looks like a bright orange track baton but it extends to a masterful reach out and touch a crappie or bluegill telescoping rod quickly.

One word of caution, be sure you extend the rod small sections first. So grab the string tab on the tip and pull it out that way. Don’t slide the sections out by dumping the open end out or you will have issues with sections getting out of order and blocking each other. Same for breaking it down. Big sections first and be sure to leave the string out when you put the cap on.  

Other than that, I enjoyed testing this rod a lot. I honestly didn’t think much of it when I got it. But after using it I can think of all sorts of places I want to take and fish with this rod. Once you get the hang of maneuvering 20 feet of rod with a fish on the end it’s a pretty fun stick to fish with.

Buy at Walmart.com

Buy from BnmPoles.com

Other Travel Rod Considerations

Ark rods genesis rods.

This was my original travel rod and I’ve put a lot of miles on it. It’s caught fish in Nebraska, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. This is a two piece travel rod that comes with a nice padded bag.

Read our full Ark Genesis 2-piece travel rod review

The rod joins together nicely and fishes so well. The very narrow blanks are durable and sensitive. I’ve caught fish just about every way you can on these rods. I have the 6-foot, 8-inch MH and the 7-foot, 6-inch MH rods and have flipped, frogged, spinnerbait fished, jigged, cranked, popped a topwater popper and burned a buzz bait with these rods. A great option that gives no sacrifice in performance in a 2-piece travel rod.

SixGill Argos Travel Rods

A very nicely made travel pack rod, the Argos Travel Rod is a 4-piece rod built on a 24T Toray Carbon blank. Comes with a 25 inch travel case. It fishes like your nicest bass rod but you can tuck it under a jacket and take it with you anywhere. The rod loads nicely on the cast and has enough back bone with it’s 7-foot MH frame to fight any size bass you might tangle with. A very nice travel rod option.  

Buy from Sixgillfishing.com

Zebco 33 Spincast Telescopic Combo

This is an affordable option at $25 but it’s not made to handle big fish in my opinion. It’s a great rod for catching panfish around a campsite, or of the dock on vacation. But it’s not made for fishing for larger fish. The rod bends easily at the tip under load and the line cuts across the rod to the next guide. So just be cautious with bigger fish on this setup. But for $25, you can catch the heck out of a bunch of panfish with this setup.

Buy at Amazon

Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod

I haven’t had a chance to review the latest offerings from Hardy yet, but one of my all time favorite travel rods is my Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod. It’s a 9-foot, 5-weight rod. It is the perfect pack rod for hiking into remote streams and chasing fish on the fly. This is the Ferrari of travel rods in my opinion. Everything is first class from the aluminum case, styled bag, ferrule covers, and beautiful craftsmanship on the Sintrix 440 blank.  

Buy from Hardyrodsandreels.com

Shimano Convergence Travel Rod

This 7-foot, 4-piece rod is another great do-it all travel rod. It’s a great rod for a lot of different species and lures in that 1/4 ounce to 3/4 ounce size. It breaks down to 25 inches so it will fit in almost all your bags and it comes in a nice hard case with a shoulder strap if you want to carry it on your back while you hike. It’s very well made and fished nicely with a variety of reels.

Spinning rod

Casting rod.

Buy at Tackle Warehouse

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

This work-horse travel rod serves a ton of different purposes. It’s 6-foot, 6-inch size makes it a great size for tight quarters. I loved fishing some small streams near the house with this rod. A fun little rod for wading creeks or winging around on bigger waters on your travels. It’s small form factor of 24 inches makes it a great pack rod to keep in your vehicle or throw in your bag on long trips. It’s a very nice blank divided into 4 pieces. It’s strong, sensitive and light. A great travel version of their very popular Triumph line.  

Wired2fish Travel Rod Comparison Chart

We review a ton of products and while they don’t always make the best of categories there are a lot of good rods to choose from that can get the job done. We try to give you as many options as possible while identifying some that we think stand out in the array of options. The goal with our guides is to help you be as informed and aggregate as much helpful information and personal experience into helping you with your fishing gear decisions.  

Here is a quick rundown of a lot of travel rod / telescoping rod options:

Currently working as Senior Advisor to Wired2fish. Former COO and Publisher, Jason Sealock came to Wired2fish shortly after inception in January of 2010. Prior to that he was the Editor-in-Chief of FLW Outdoors Magazines. He worked up from Associate Editor to Photo Editor and finally Editor in Chief of three magazines FLW Bass, FLW Walleye and FLW Saltwater. He set the content direction for Wired2fish while also working directly with programmers, consultants and industry partners. Sealock has been an avid angler for the better part of 40 years and has been writing and shooting fishing and outdoors content for more than 25 years. He is an expert with fishing electronics and technologies and an accomplished angler, photographer, writer and editor. He has taught a lot of people to find fish with their electronics and has been instrumental in teaching these technologies to the masses. He's also the industry authority on new fishing tackle and has personally reviewed more than 10,000 products in his tenure. He has a 30-year background in information technologies and was a certified engineer for a time in Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, and HP. He mostly fishes for bass and panfish around the house. He has, however, caught fish in 42 of the 50 states in the US as well as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada and hopes to soon add Finland, Japan, Africa and Australia to his list.

Breaking News

Strike king announces nationwide, 30-day online tournament, johnston victorious with overwhelming performance in bassmaster elite series event at st. johns river, teen catches 101-pound state record catfish, timing is everything: john garrett crowned elite series champion at harris chain, mckinney’s tundra smells like toyota bonus bucks, jacob wheeler clinches eighth bass pro tour win at powerstop brakes stage three at dale hollow lake presented by mercury, midday kicker seals garrett’s wire-to-wire win in bassmaster elite at harris chain, isaacs targets docks to win bassmaster kayak series event at possum kingdom, recent posts.

5 Big Bass Baits You Should Try

Lew’s HyperMag Baitcaster Reel Review

Connell’s Guide to Pitching Stumps for Big Springtime Bass

Ark G1 Reel Giveaway

The Berkley Dime Crankbait | Dan Spengler Reveals All

BassMooch Shooter Craw Review

Up to 25% Off Lew’s Rod and Reels

Fishing Sea Walls Throughout the Spring

This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023 – Top Rated Travel Rods

The best travel spinning rods.

Looking for a compact easy to transport rod that still performs? Our list of travel fishing rods has something for all budgets. 

Nothing beats hitting the open road to your favorite destination and as a fisherman the urge is always there to pack your fishing gear with you.

Sure a tackle box and a few reels don't take up too much space.

But rods are a different story.

One thing is for certain one and two piece rods can be a pain to transport especially if your travel plans involve catching a plane somewhere. Packing them up in large rod tubes can be a bit of a hassle.

A travel rod just makes life easier!

Our top choice as the best travel spinning rod is the Okuma Nomad . It maintains a near perfect taper along the rod blank due to a spigot furl design, high durability thanks to a carbon wrap over the graphite blank and is finished with premium quality line guides and reel seat.

The Nomad is best suited to salt water spinning or heavy freshwater work. If you are looking for a lighter freshwater travel rod then the St Croix Triumph 4-piece is an exceptional caster of light lures and is perfect for back-country hiking to small rivers and streams.

Okuma Nomad

The best travel spinning rod.

The Okuma Nomad is offers one of the best rod blank taper available on any travel rod, combined with premium ALPS hardware.

Rod design has certainly moved on in the last 10-15 years. Improvements in carbon fiber, graphite and even fiberglass construction techniques have given rod builders the necessary materials to produce some amazing travel rods.

Time was that your travel spinning rod was a clunky affair that lost a lot of it's sensitivity due to how the spigot affected the taper of the blank.

Clearly a one piece blank will always be the most sensitive and balanced when it comes to performance. However, travel rods these days have solved a lot of the old issues.

With a big wrap around spigot the natural taper in the blank was effected on a normal two piece rod.

Now multiple this be 3 for a 4 piece rod and you ended up with a rod that was limp and felt like it left you out of touch with your lure and hook setting.

A lot of modern travel fishing rods have whats known as a spigot ferrule . The spigot ferrule is essentially a piece that is bonded to the lower piece of the blank that the upper piece then slides onto.

It's perfectly normal for there to be a gap between each section, this allows for upper section to still fit snugly after the lower spigot has reduced in diameter due to normal wear and tear.

Below you will find a variety of different travel rods. Some are suited to heavier saltwater work and some to freshwater light spinning on rivers there are even a number of casting variants available if you prefer a baitcasting rod .

Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023

Why choose a travel rod over a telescopic fishing rod.

Although the quality of telescopic rods a has increased in recent years they still do not have the same feel through the blank.

Even though they have a regularly stepped taper due to each section fitting into the last still don't get the same feel from them.

A high quality travel rod such as the St Croix Triumph below will always outperform a telescopic rod. I have yet to find one that can compete with a well designed 3 or 4 piece travel rod. 

Now telescopic rods do have their place, they are great for keeping in the trunk of a car with a small reel and a handful of lures for the occasionally unplanned few hours after work.

However they usually never have the same backbone and always feel less than durable or capable of handling something a bit larger.

Best Travel Fishing Rods

Okuma Nomad Review

The top choice for best travel rod is the Okuma Nomad. It maintains its taper due to the spigot ferrule design described below giving an almost one piece feel to the blank.

The Okuma Nomad travel spinning rod is priced in the mid to high bracket. For the money you are getting one seriously sturdy rod. It definitely is rated on the high side when it comes to power.

So if you are looking for a light weight spinning setup then some thing like the Fenwick below might be more suitable. 

The beauty of the Nomad is if you intend to do some heavy freshwater spinning or some inshore boat work you can use one rod for both on those holiday trips to target many different species and it should have enough backbone to handle them.

The versatility of the Okuma doesn't stop there though. You get two different tips with each rod. Each with a different action meaning you have effectively two rods in one.

So if you are looking for a highly versatile saltwater spinning or heavy action freshwater spinning travel rod then the Okuma is the clear choice.

• Graphite blank with carbon outer wrap
• European spigot ferrule connection
• ALPS high rise 316 stainless steel guide frames
• ALPS two tone anodized aluminum reel seats
• Lifetime limited warranty
• Waterproof carrying case

St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning

If you are not looking for a heavy saltwater travel rod like the Okuma then take a look at the St Croix Triumph Travel spinning rod.

The range comes medium to heavy with all models having a fast action. These rods are suited to medium/light spinning.

They can happily perform spinning on small rivers and streams with smaller on 4-10 lbs line. The action is fast so you have some very quick hook setting capabilities and are pretty sensitive for a 4 piece rod.

Although this rod does come with a padded travel case it is only a soft nylon case and St Croix really could have taken the crown of top rod if they had supplied the Triumph range with a hard shell case.

That being said if you are careful about how you transport the Triumph males for one heck of a travel rod. 

There is also a casting model of the Triumph featured below.

• SCII grahite
• Extremely sensitive
• Fast action taper
• Fuji DPS reel seat
• 5 year warranty

St Croix Triumph Travel Casting

If you are not looking for a dedicated spinning travel rod and prefer a baitcasting setup then the St Croix Triumph Travel casting rod is sure to please.

Built on effectively the same rod blank sections as the spinning model above, the casting model will of course have a baitcasting reel seat and has the lower profile line guides that are usually found on a casting rod.

There is only one model available unlike the spinning series above. It is a 6'6" rod in four sections also.

The power is medium/heavy with a fast action and the line rating is 10 - 20 lbs.

With a line rating in the 10/20 pounds range and with a lure rating of between 3/8 - 1 oz you can throw some fairly decent sized lures. So, if is perfectly capable of handling crankbaits, large spoons and spinners and jerkbaits.

• 4 section travel casting rod
• Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish
• Fuji ECS reel seat with silver hood

Fiblink 3-piece Spinning

These Fiblink 3 piece spinning rods are a great alternative to the Okuma if you are on a tight budget.

Similar in power to the Okuma the Fiblink are heavy rated and come in three possible lengths 6', 6'6" and 7' so pretty capable of handle some decent boat work too.

Like the Okuma these rods are certainly aimed at the saltwater fisherman. The line rating for them is in the 30-50 lbs and lure weights from 2-8 ounces. 

The Fiblink also comes with a waterproof carry case. However like any cloth based case it is not going to take too much abuse so if you intend on flying anywhere you might need an hard carry case.

• Graphite composite blanks
• Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts
• Aluminum alloy reel seat
• One year warranty

Fenwick Methods Spinning

Fenwick are long known as a premium brand that produce some very high quality rods. Thankfully that same quality is still instilled in their travel rod range the Methods.

With the ability to change both the middle and tip section of the rods for another with a different action the Fenwick Methods travel rods are extremely versatile. 

This versatility means you can pack light but still be adaptable. Adaptability is something that is great to have when you are away on a trip to some unknown destination.

This versatility is a good thing given that there is only two rods available in the range a 6'8" and a 7 footer. The power is medium/light to medium.

Supplied with a hard case is a nice additional bonus and it really shows that Fenwick had the traveler in mind when designing the Methods.  

• 5 pieces in total
• Travel tube included
• Multiple center sections and tips included
• Spigot ferral

Piscifun Graphite 4 Piece

Priced at the lower end of the scale the Piscifun graphite 4 piece travel pole is a lot of rod for the money. 

The blanks are mare from carbon fiber using Piscifun's ArmoreCore technology resulting in a very lightweight and yet strong rod.

They probaly have the biggest range available from any of the travel rods. There are 3 sizes available 6', 6'6" and a 7'. The power is from medium/light up to extra heavy. 

The strength of the carbon fiber blanks are reinforced with 8-ton E glass. That extra layer of fiberglass makes these rods a whole lot more durable than a regular carbon fiber.

• Carbon fiber blanks
• Ceramic guides
• Medium to heavy

Daiwa Ardito-TR Spinning

The Ardito-TR from Daiwa is a 3 piece travel rod. They are available in a spinning and a casting variation.

The model featured here is the spinning edition and are available in 7' or 7'6 rod lengths.

These rods have been expertly designed by Daiwa. They have put a lot of thought into getting the rod taper to remain consistent throughout the blank. The taping blank and ferrule joint give a really clean join between each of the sections.

These are a 3 piece rod and as such have a bit more backbone than some of the other 4 piece offerings.

Slightly heavier than some of the other travel rods out there, however it is a pretty tough rod some not quite as easy to break as some of the others in this line-up.

• 3 piece travel rod
• X45 Bias graphite fiber blanks
• V-Flex Ferrule joint system
• Semi-hard travel case
• 5 year limited warranty

Choosing the right rod means knowing exactly what kind of fishing you intend on doing ahead of time. 

However, if you are on vacation and are not sure just what kind of water you may be fishing then the best bet is a spinning setup as it is generally the most versatile.

A good spinning rod can be used for almost any type of fishing assuming of course that you are not hunting large shark or marlin miles offshore.

If you are looking for a really good all round setup then the something like a travel spinning kit may suit.

The Okuma Voyager travel kit is probably the most popular travel combo available today.

No t e : it is best suited to lightweight freshwater spinning though, it is not meant for anything heavy I don't think the size 20 Voyager reel should be used in saltwater.

Best Travel Rod and Reel Combo

Okuma Voyager Travel Kit

The Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit combines a rod, reel, tackle box and hard shell case all into a great value for money package.

The perfect travel combo to take away on a trip the Voyager travel kit comes with one of the best hard shell cases you'll find of any travel fishing rod.

A size 20 spinning reel definitely falls into the ultralight spinning category and with a sensitive 6 foot rod you can be sure to make some very accurate casts with lightweight lures. 

You also get a small lure box included in the kit. All of the components fit snugly in the interior padding of the kit so they won't get knocked about when in transit.

• Size 20 Voyager reel
• 6 foot rod comes in 5 pieces
• Hard shell padded travel case
• Small lure box included

Do You Need a Rod Tube ?

If you have ever tried to travel with a rod any kind of serious distance that involves using some for of publicly available transport such as a bus, plane or a train then you'll know that the luggage compartment is not the place to put your rod if you still want it in one piece when you arrive at your destination.

A rod tube however can provide good protection. Rod tubes are available in either soft or hard body variations.

Without a doubt travelling on a plane will require the use of a rod hard shell tube. The checked luggage compartment on a plane is usually crammed full of heavy luggage and a soft rod tube will quite simply not be strong enough to handle all that abuse.

11 Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel Combos of 2023: (Expert Buying Guide)

Muhammad Zubair

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Whether traveling to Alaska for a fishing trip or simply going on a weekend fishing excursion, having a travel fishing rod and reel combo is essential, as it’s a hassle-free way to transport your fishing rod and reel without breaking or damaging it.

Most travel fishing rod and reel combos are lightweight and designed to be easily stored and used in different weather conditions.

They are made of materials like carbon fiber and graphite that can withstand the rigors of travel, including extreme weather like rain and snow.

Travel fishing rod and reel combos are designed to have ergonomic grips for easy transportation, and most of them will break down to be easily stored in larger suitcases.

Our Travel Gear Lab and Outdoor Lab have tested the best travel fishing rod and reel combos for durability and performance. We also consider buyers’ guides so you can easily purchase the best travel fishing rod combo.

This article will discuss our top picks for travel fishing rod and reel combos.

Our Top 3 Favourite

Best Overall

Shakespeare Alpha

The lightweight graphite reel comes pre-spooled with an 8-pound line.

Editor’s choice

Okuma Voyager

This compact and easy-to-carry kit comes with a six-foot graphite composite rod.

Pflueger President

It’s reliable, efficient, and a total workhorse on the water.

Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

• Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6′ Low Profile
• Okuma Voyager Spinning Freshwater Travel Kit
• Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel and Rod Combo
• Zebco Omega Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod
• Quantum Telescopic Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo
• TOP FORT Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit
• Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos
• KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
• World Traveller Travel Fishing Rod Reel & Case Set
• Daiwa CC20F635ML Carbon Case Travel
• REYR Gear Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo

1. Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6′ Low Profile Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo

Looking for a travel fishing rod and reel combo that doesn’t break the bank? The Low Profile Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo are worth considering.

The lightweight graphite reel comes pre-spooled with an 8-pound line, which is extremely convenient. The rod is designed with EVA grips that offer a firm, comfortable hold during long fishing outings. The tubular glass blank construction provides both a responsive feel and rugged durability.

I love the low-profile design of this combo. It’s easy to maneuver and feels great in my hands. In use, the rod reacts quickly and feels incredibly well-balanced. The EVA grip is comfortable and reduces hand fatigue. Plus, the lightweight reel is a breeze to cast.

The only downside of this combo is that the reel’s drag system could be a bit stronger. But it’s still more than enough for catching most fish.

If you’re a beginner or an intermediate angler, the Low Profile Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo is a great choice. It may not have all the bells and whistles of pricier models, but it easily gets the job done.

Investing in a fishing rod and reel combo can be daunting–there are many options at various prices. But with its budget-friendly price and solid construction, the Low Profile Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo is a smart choice.

2. Okuma Voyager Spinning Freshwater Travel Kit, VS-605-20

The Okuma Voyager is the perfect travel companion for any fishing enthusiast. This compact and easy-to-carry kit comes with a six-foot graphite composite rod that is both sensitive and durable. The cork grip and ceramic guide inserts provide a comfortable and reliable hold, while the stainless steel hooded reel seats keep the reel securely in place.

The ball bearing drive system and corrosion-resistant aluminum spool make for smooth and reliable casting, and the shock-resistant foam insert in the convenient nylon travel bag ensures your gear stays safe during transport. I love that the Voyager Travel Kit is so lightweight and portable, making it perfect for casual camping or hiking fishing trips.

While some customers have reported issues with the rod breaking, Okuma and Amazon have been responsive in resolving these issues. Additionally, the reel size may not be suitable for larger fish, but for targeting smaller species, this is a great option.

Compared to similar models, the Okuma Voyager is affordable and convenient. The machine-cut brass pinion gear and one-piece anodized aluminum spool make for a reliable and long-lasting product. As a unisex adult, I appreciate that this kit is suitable for anyone and everyone.

I highly recommend the Okuma Voyager to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable travel kit. Its compact size, durable construction, and smooth casting make it a great choice for casual fishing trips. So, if you’re looking for a new travel kit, check out the Okuma Voyager.

3. Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel and Rod Combo

Buckle up, folks – I’ve got a reel-ly exciting product to share with you today: the 10-bearing system aluminum fishing reel. This bad boy is a game-changer for any angler looking for reliable, smooth casting.

Let’s start with the 10-bearing system. It’s no secret that the more bearings you have, the smoother and more efficient your reel will be. And let me tell you, this system does not disappoint. Every turn of the handle is so buttery-smooth it’s almost like the fish are jumping into your boat on their own.

But what sets this reel apart is the aluminum main shaft and pinion gear. Not only do they make the reel incredibly durable, but they also make it lightweight enough to use for hours on end without feeling like you’re lugging around a cinderblock.

The braid-ready spool is another bonus – no more messing around with the backing line or worrying about slippage. And thanks to the sealed drag system, you’ll never have to worry about sand or dirt getting in the way of your perfect catch.

Now, I’m not going to lie; this reel has one downside. It’s not the cheapest one on the market. But honestly, I think this product’s quality more than justifies the price tag. Investing in a solid reel is an absolute must if you’re serious about fishing.

Overall, I’m absolutely in love with this 10-bearing system aluminium fishing reel. It’s reliable, efficient, and a total workhorse on the water. If you’re ready to take your travel angling game to the next level, this bad boy is worth checking out.

4. Zebco Omega Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo | Fishing rod and reel combos

Looking for a fishing rod and reel combo that won’t break the bank but will still deliver top-notch performance? Look no further than the Zebco Omega Combo. This adult-sized spin-casting combo is perfect for catching everything from panfish to bass, trout, and walleye.

One of the standout features of this combo is the fast-action 5-foot 6-inch 2-piece fishing rod. The IM6 graphite construction and 5 + Tip guides provide smooth casts and retrieves, while the natural cork handle is lightweight and comfortable, even in wet conditions.

But the show’s real star is the Zebco Omega spin cast reel. This premium reel features all-metal gears, a triple-cam dial-adjustable disk drag, and 7 bearings (6 + clutch) for maximum performance on the water.

One of the things I love most about this combo is the changeable right- or left-hand retrieve, which makes it perfect for both right- and left-handed anglers. And with a line weight capacity of 4-10 pounds and lure weights of 1/8-3/4 oz, this combo is versatile enough to handle a wide range of fishing situations.

Of course, no product is perfect, and the Zebco Omega Combo is no exception. While the soft-touch thumb-button design and oscillating quick-change spool are great features, I found that the reel can be a bit finicky sometimes, especially when trying to cast into the wind. That being said, I could still catch plenty of fish with a little practice and patience with this combo.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable travel fishing spin-casting combo that can handle various fishing situations, the Zebco Omega Combo is worth checking out.

With expertly crafted materials, premium components, and a versatile design, this combo will surely be a hit for novice and experienced anglers alike. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?

5. Quantum Telescopic Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo

Quantum’s Telecast spinning rod is a game-changer for the avid fisherman who needs to travel light. This compact spinning rod makes it easy to carry, extending smoothly from 18.5 to 6 feet 6 inches.

With medium power and fast action, this fishing pole is perfect for catching walleye or bass. The durable graphite rod blank construction and 4 + Tip D-Ring guides provide a smooth and quick cast, and the split-grip EVA foam handle gives a comfortable, non-slip grip all-day.

The built-in hook keeper is your best friend; no more worries about snagging your line on the way to the next adventure. Quantum’s engineers designed this rod to hold a 6-12 lb line weight and 1/8-1/2 lure weights.

The size 30 spinning fishing reel features a Long Stroke anodized aluminium spool with a mono line capacity of 170/10 yds/lbs. It is conveniently pre-spooled with a 10-pound Zebco Cajun line, a good choice for fishing in different environments.

The Continuous Anti-Reverse is a lifesaver; it stops the reel handle from moving backward to create a solid hookset in a fish’s mouth when reeling in your prized catch. The front-adjustable drag, TRU Balance rotor, a 5.3:1 gear ratio, and line retrieval of 28 IPT (inches per turn) make it easy to catch fish all day long while being compact enough for easy travel and storage.

I love that all Quantum gear is protected for a rock-solid 5 years from the original date of purchase against defects in workmanship and materials. That level of protection allows one to keep pursuing their passion without worrying about their gear’s performance. I don’t like that the size 30 reel is not interchangeable. However, it is not a deal breaker.

The Quantum Telecast telescopic rod and reel combo is a top performer, competitively priced, and perfect for the angler on the go. Overall the Quantum Telecast offers exceptional quality, versatility, and performance. It’s perfect for anyone who dreams of a day-long fishing trip in new territories or a new adventure.

6. TOP FORT Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit

Looking for a fly fishing travel combo that will help you get started without breaking the bank? Look no further than the TOPFORT Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit. This kit has everything you need to get started, including a 4-piece fly fishing rod , a pre-spooled fly reel, and 12 flies in a tackle box.

One of the best things about this combo is that it’s designed for beginners. The mid-flex IM8 graphite fly rod is easy to handle, while the adjustable CNC aluminium reel seat is comfortable to hold. The Western-style grip made with compressed cork trim rings is also a nice touch, making it easy to cast for long periods without fatigue.

Another great feature of this combo is the high-quality fly flies kit. The 12 hand-tied flies are perfect for sub-surface flies, and the forceps, line nipper with a retractor, strike indicators, and split shot are all included. The carry bag is also designed for fishing lovers, making it easy to take this combo anywhere.

That said, there are a few downsides to this combo. The gear ratio is 1:1, which means it may not be as fast as some other models on the market. The line weight is 5/6, which may not be ideal for larger fish. However, these drawbacks are minor compared to this combo’s overall value.

The TOPFORT Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit is a fantastic option for anyone looking to start Fishing while traveling. It’s affordable, easy to use, and comes with everything you need to get started.

I particularly love the high-quality flies kit and the comfortable grip, which make it easy to cast and catch fish. If you want to start with fly fishing, this is definitely a combo worth checking out.

7. Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole Spinning Reel

Wow! The Sougayilang carbon fiber fishing rod and reel combo is one of my best products. The high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass makes the fishing pole hard and durable.

It is lightweight, but the hard and lightweight guide ring made of SIC ceramic makes for better heat dissipation and a more reliable experience. The international advanced epoxy resin adhesive makes the guide ring more solid, and the lower friction coefficient makes it durable.

The reel on this combo is a work of art. It delivers ultra-smooth performance with 13+1 corrosion-resistant smooth ball bearings, precision-matched gears, and a powerful 5.5:1 gear ratio.

The CNC machined aluminum handle is interchangeable for right or left-handed use and has an extra exquisite aluminum spool. The aerospace-grade aluminum honeycomb design spool is strong and lightweight- perfect for fishing enthusiasts. My favorite feature is the EVA knob, which makes it non-slip and more comfortable for long-time fishing.

I also love that the Sougayilang spinning rod reel combo has a carrier bag, three fishing lures, a fishing line, and other accessories. It makes it easy to take on the go for a weekend camping trip or a day out on the boat. Despite its portability, it packs a powerful punch when it comes to quality and performance.

However, there are a couple of things I wish were different. As much as I love the lightweight design, it makes it feel flimsy when casting bigger fish. Also, the instructions for assembly and maintenance are too basic. An instruction video would have been helpful.

The Sougayilang carbon fiber fishing rod and reel combo is an excellent purchase for any fishing enthusiast. It performs better than similar models, and the added accessories and carrier bag make it a great value for money. I highly recommend it to those who like fishing with traveling!

8. KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Looking for the perfect travel fishing rod and reel combo? Look no further than the KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo! This amazing combo includes a 6.80ft telescopic fishing pole made of Japanese 24/30 ultra high-density carbon fiber and a size 3000 spinning fishing reel. And with its collapsible design, it’s super easy to store and travel with.

One of the best things about this combo is its versatility. It can handle casting lures or weights up to 1.5oz and is suitable for fishing bass, salmon, and trout. Its Floating Guide System with 5 fixed and 2 floating guides reduce line friction upon casting for maximum casting distance.

And with the Spinning Reel S3000 featuring an aluminum body, 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings, and a 5.2:1 gear ratio, it can handle up to 15 lbs of drag assist.

Assembly is super easy, with markings on each section and a rod guide for alignment. And the handle can be interchanged between the left or right hand, making it perfect for both lefties and righties.

But there are a few things to keep in mind. The carrying bag and fishing line are not included, and it’s unsuitable for casting very light tackle 100ft out. The rod sensitivity may also not be as high as some other models, and the reel may require additional lubrication. And the combo may be a bit heavier than expected.

Overall, I love this combo. It’s versatile, easy to use, and perfect for various fishing situations. While there are a few minor drawbacks, they’re easily outweighed by the combo’s many benefits. If you’re looking for a great travel fishing rod and reel combo, you can’t go wrong with the KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo. Check it out now!

9. World Traveller Travel Fishing Rod Reel & Case Set

Premium compact travel fishing combination – is it worth the hype? As someone who loves to fish while traveling, I was skeptical about this product. But after using it extensively, I can confidently say this is the real deal.

First, let’s talk about the premium design. This hi-performance, compact fishing pole is sturdy but light, making it ideal for travel. The silicone rings and interchangeable tips make it easy to assemble and use, even for beginners.

And the compact storage feature makes it a breeze to pack and carry. But the best part of this combination is the superior 5-ball-bearing steel reel. With a 5:1:1 ratio and instant anti-reverse, this reel is perfect for catching all types of fish. And the left or right wind and collapsible handle make it even more versatile.

As for the cons, I wish the rod was longer. At 6.4′ or 7′, it’s a bit shorter than I’m used to. But the compact size makes up for it, and it’s airline cabin baggage friendly. And while the cost may be steep, the 2-year guarantee ensures you invest in a quality product.

Compared to similar models, this fishing combination is by far the best. It’s durable, easy to use, and perfect for travel fishing. I love how versatile it is, making it ideal for game fishing, coarse fishing, spin fishing, carp fishing, pike fishing, salmon fishing, trout fishing, and sea fishing.

This is the one to get if you’re looking for a premium compact travel fishing combination. While it may have its minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh them. Don’t take my word for it; check it out for yourself and see how amazing it is.

10. Daiwa CC20F635ML Carbon Case Travel Pre-Mounted Freshwater Spinning Combo

Are you tired of lugging around heavy fishing gear? Look no further than the Daiwa CC20F635ML Spinning Combo. This lightweight combo is perfect for any angler, weighing just 2.0 pounds.

This combo’s innovative technology and materials make it a durable and rugged option for any fishing trip. Plus, the carbon case with the combo makes it easy to pack up and take on the go.

The CC20F635ML is designed for freshwater fishing and can be used to target bass and trout. The spinning technique used with this combo is perfect for any level of angler.

What I love most about this combo is the versatility it offers. You can choose the perfect model for your specific needs in different configurations. The included carbon case also makes storing and transporting your gear easy, ensuring it stays in top condition for your next fishing trip.

While I appreciate the lightweight design of this combo, it may not be the best option for those looking to catch larger fish. However, this can easily be reframed as a benefit for those who prefer a more lightweight option.

Compared to similar models, the Daiwa CC20F635ML is a top contender. Its durable build, and lightweight design make it a great option for anglers. I highly recommend this combo to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient option for their next fishing trip.

Don’t just take my word for it – check out the Daiwa CC20F635ML Spinning Combo for yourself and experience the benefits firsthand.

11. REYR Gear Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo

Get ready to tackle your next big catch with the FIRST CAST Fly Fishing Equipment! This unique travel fly rod and reel combo is perfect for beginners and experienced traveler anglers. The best part is that It has a no-knot setup with a pre-rigged telescoping fly rod, making the first cast a breeze and an ideal purchase for someone who wants to start fishing quickly without any complications.

I love that this fishing rod functions like traditional fly and tenkara rods, but it is better. The internal-lined graphite fly rod boasts a med-fast action and exceptional flex, making it travel better than other rods in the same category.

Plus, the CNC aluminum reel is comfortable to hold, and the adjustable carbon drag helps you easily control the fishing line’s tension. It’s designed to work perfectly with this telescopic fly rod.

The FIRST CAST Fly Fishing Equipment is ergonomically designed. It is an excellent feature since it has a fly line inside, which removes eyelets that tend to break on other telescoping rods during travel.

Besides being comfortable to use, it’s also portable, and with its 9 oz weight, very easy to carry in a backpack or under a car seat. The 2 oz neoprene case is a great addition to the package, making it even more comfortable.

One of the few downsides to this product is that it comes only in two versions. It would be better if there were a few more weight options so that you can pick the most suitable for your needs.

But this is a small issue compared to all the excellent features of this product. If you are confident you want a 6WT or a 4WT weight rod, you are in luck!

Overall, I love the FIRST CAST Fly Fishing Equipment. It has everything you need to catch the fish you want, is easy to use, and is super portable.

I highly recommend it to anyone that wants to experience fly fishing for the first time or those who already enjoy it. So if you’re looking for a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use travel fly fishing rod and reel kit, look no further than the FIRST CAST Fly Fishing Equipment.

Factors to Consider When Buying Travel Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

When it comes to fishing, having the right equipment is crucial. And if you’re planning on traveling, having a travel fishing rod and reel combo can make all the difference.

But with so many options available, how do you know which one to choose? Here are seven factors to consider when buying a travel fishing rod and reel combo.

Type of Fish

Firstly, it’s crucial to consider the type of fish you’ll be targeting. Different fish require different gear, so choose a combo suitable for your target fish.

A lightweight spinning combo will do the job if you’re fishing for small fish like trout or panfish. However, you’ll need a heavier baitcasting combo if you’re after larger fish like bass or pike.

The length of the fishing rod is another important factor. Longer rods are ideal for wide-open spaces, allowing for longer casts, while shorter rods are more maneuverable and better suited for small streams or rivers.

Travel fishing rods usually range from 4 to 8 feet long, so choose one appropriate for your fishing environment.

Portability

Portability is undoubtedly the most crucial factor when it comes to travel fishing. You need a combo that’s easy to pack, carry, and store, especially if traveling by air, bus, or train.

Look for a combo that can be broken down into multiple pieces and easily fit into a backpack or travel case. Choosing a lightweight combo that won’t add unnecessary weight to your luggage is also essential.

Power and Action

The power and action of a fishing rod determine its strength, sensitivity, and flexibility. There are four types of power and action for travel fishing rods and reels, so choose an appropriate combo for your target fish.

So, when you’re looking for a travel fishing rod and reel, choosing the right combo is important based on the type of power and action you need.

the material of the fishing rod affects its durability, sensitivity, and performance. Most travel fishing rods are made of graphite or fiberglass, so choose a combo made of high-quality material that can withstand the rigors of travel and fishing.

Graphite is a popular material for fishing rods because it is lightweight and sensitive, allowing anglers to feel even the slightest nibble on their line. It also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it durable and strong enough to handle larger fish.

Fiberglass, on the other hand, is more durable and flexible than graphite, making it a good choice for heavy-duty fishing or for beginners who might accidentally break their rods.

Ultimately, the best material for your travel fishing rod will depend on your personal preferences and the type of fishing you plan to do. Be sure to research and choose a high-quality combo that will last for many fishing trips.

It’s important to choose the right reel for your travel fishing rod. Spinning reels are easy to use, lightweight, and ideal for beginners, while baitcasting reels offer more control, accuracy, and power. Choose a reel compatible with the rod with the right gear ratio and line capacity.

Consider the type of fish you’ll target and the technique you’ll use when choosing a reel. For example, a spinning reel with a smaller spool may be more appropriate if you’re going after smaller fish with light lures.

On the other hand, if you’re going after larger fish and need to make long casts, a baitcasting reel with a higher gear ratio and larger line capacity may be more suitable.

It’s also important to consider the reel’s quality, as a well-made reel can make a big difference in your fishing experience. Look for reels with quality materials, smooth drag systems, and a good reputation among anglers.

Lastly, it would be best if you considered the price. Don’t overspend on gear you’ll only use occasionally, but don’t compromise on quality and performance. Look for a combo that offers the best value for your money with a good balance of price, quality, and features.

Conclusion 💭

To wrap up, finding the best travel fishing rod and reel combo requires careful consideration of several factors, such as portability, durability, versatility, and performance.

After researching and testing various options, the Shakespeare Alpha, Okuma Voyager, and Pflueger President XT stand out as some of the best choices on the market.

Ultimately, the right combo will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By choosing a high-quality and reliable travel rod and reel set, you can enjoy fishing on the go without compromising on quality or convenience.

It’s important to remember that while a good travel fishing rod and reel combo can make your fishing trips more enjoyable, it’s not the only factor to consider.

Make sure to research the area you’ll be fishing in, including any regulations or restrictions, and pack appropriate gear such as bait, lures, and a fishing license.

Additionally, always practice responsible fishing practices, including catch and release when appropriate, to ensure the longevity of the fishing industry and the natural environment. Travel fishing can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience with the right gear and mindset.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a travel fishing rod?

A travel fishing rod is a fishing rod that is designed to be easily transported and used by anglers while they are traveling. These rods are typically shorter and more compact than traditional fishing rods, making them easier to carry and store. They also often have telescoping sections that allow them to assemble and disassemble quickly. Travel-catching fish rods are perfect for anglers who want to take their fishing gear on trips but don’t want to lug around a bulky traditional rod.

Is it better to buy a rod reel combo or a separate one?

When deciding whether to buy a rod reel combo or separate, there are a few things to consider. The first is price. A combo is usually cheaper than buying the rod and reel separately. However, combos often don’t include the best-quality components, so you may need to upgrade later. Buying the rod and reel separately is better if you want the best equipment. This way, you can customize your set-up according to your needs and budget.

Are our multi-piece fishing rods good?

Multi-piece fishing rods are an excellent option for anglers who want the convenience of breaking their rod down into smaller pieces for transport. Multi-piece rods can be easily transported in a carrying case or backpack and are easier to store in a small space.

Multi-piece rods are also good for anglers who like to use different types of lures because you can easily change the length of your rod by adding or removing sections. However, multi-piece rods can be more challenging to use than one-piece rods and can also be less durable.

About the author

We created this website to share our knowledge with other fishing enthusiasts. We hope our tips and tricks will help you catch more fish and have more fun!

Latest posts

8 Best Ice Fishing Cameras for Your Next Winter Adventure!

“Dive under the ice with our top 8 ice fishing cameras! Perfect your winter fishing adventures with tech…

When Were Fishing Rods Invented? A Journey Through Fishing History

Dive into the history of fishing rods, from their 2000 BC origins to today’s high-tech gear. Explore the…

How to Find Sand Fleas: Unleash the Power of Fresh Bait

Learn how to find sand fleas for saltwater fishing and unleash the power of fresh bait for catching…

• Books & Merch
• Gear We Use
• National & State Parks
• Best RV Campgrounds in New Hampshire
• Best RV Campgrounds in NC Mountains
• Best Florida Beach RV Campgrounds
• South Dakota
• The Great Lakes
• Campers Swear By This Portable Device That Keeps Dogs Safe -The Best Portable Dog Fence for Camping (2024)
• Mosquitos and bugs
• Camping Clothes
• Camping Gifts
• Camping Internet
• 5 Best RV Backup Cameras for RV & Trailer
• 7 Best Screen Tents for Camping (2024)
• Best RV Campgrounds in California
• 5 Best Key West RV Parks
• 9 Best RV Campgrounds in New Jersey
• Camping Reservations
• Campground Comparisons
• Cheap or FREE RV Camping Sites
• Best RV Campground Memberships & Clubs
• Boondocking 101
• Boondocking Adventures
• RV Internet
• What Do Flamingos and Upside Down Pineapples Mean?
• Where to Find FREE or Cheap RV Sites Camping
• RV Winter Camping
• RV Show List for 2024
• 17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

The Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel

Here's what to look for in the best travel fishing rod and reel, and 4 great options to choose from….

• 1 Here's what to look for in the best travel fishing rod and reel, and 4 great options to choose from…
• 2.1 Construction and Materials
• 2.2 Rod Length
• 2.3 Rod Action
• 2.4 Combo vs. No-Combo
• 2.5 Consider Your Preferred Lures
• 3.1 Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit
• 3.2 St Croix Triumph
• 3.3 Ugly Stik GX2 Pack
• 3.4 Daiwa Mini System Ultralight Reel and Rod Combo
• 4 Your Vote on the Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel
• 5 What About the Florida Keys?

Are you planning a fishing trip, but not sure what rod and reel to take with you? Perhaps you want to find a lightweight, collapsible fishing rod to throw in your backpack for your next hike. Or maybe a high-quality, telescopic rod seems like a better fit.

The good news is, there is a great option just waiting for you!

The following is my guide to finding the best travel fishing rods. I include what to look for in the best road and reel, and include my top picks!

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Thank you for your support.

What to Look for in a Travel Fishing Rod and Reel

No matter your skill level, from novice to advanced, you might wonder what to look for in a travel reel and rod. Especially if you have ever only used traditional fishing before.

No matter what, there are a few considerations to think about before purchasing so that you can find the best option for you and your needs.

Construction and Materials

In addition to finding the highest quality rod made from advanced materials, you want one that also offers excellent performance and high strength.

If you purchase a good quality rod, then you can expect it to have two important qualities: durability and sensitivity.

First, a durable rod will last you for years and many trips to come. It also will not break when it comes into contact with a strong fish.

Second, a sensitive rod easily alerts you when a fish is nibbling at the end of your line.

A travel rod is typically shorter and breaks down into several pieces. Many come as a two-piece rod, and some break down into as many as four pieces. Another option is a telescopic fishing pole, that folds into itself. And others are just very lightweight.

Most travel rods run about six to eight feet in length, fully assembled.

You'll want to choose your rod based on:

• the types of lures you like to use
• how long you need to cast
• the types of fish you are catching
• freshwater fishing vs saltwater fishing

Are you trout fishing or bass fishing? Fishing on a lake or the ocean? There's a rod for that. As for me, I'm Hooked on Kayak Fishing.

The term rod action refers to the spot on the blank where the rod flexes. A rod with a fast action bends towards the top of the blank. That means you will have increased sensitivity, but less flexibility. They work better with smaller fish because you can feel their nibbles.

Rods with a slow action bends at the bottom of the blank. You'll get the opposite with this rod action- high flexibility but low sensitivity. These work well for larger fish since they produce stronger nibbles.

If you plan to fish in ponds, lakes, or rivers for small bass, trout, or the like, then a fast action rod is better. If you will do offshore or surf fishing, then you want to look at medium or slow-action rods.

Combo vs. No-Combo

A combo fishing pole sometimes called a fishing combo or reel combo means that the rod and reel come together as one unit.

Generally speaking, you can usually get a higher quality rod and reel if you purchase them separately. However, sometimes you do not have a choice, and there are some good options out there if you do get a combo.

Consider Your Preferred Lures

The final thing to consider is the types of lures you want to use. If you use smaller lures like jigs or one made from soft plastics, then choose a six to a seven-foot ultralight spinning rod. It will provide you with the sensitivity you'll need.

If you prefer using deep crankbaits, you need at least a medium power rod. That means you want to look for a seven-foot medium-action casting rod. Opt for one with a slower gear ratio, such as 5:1.

Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel (4 Top Picks)

The following are a few great travel rods and reels to choose from.

Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit

The Okuma Voyager gives you the ultimate fishing experience. It is the perfect choice out of all four-piece rods since it can easily fit into your travel case.

It is simple to assemble and take apart, making it a breeze to store and transport. When it is fully assembled, it is six feet long.

The rod comes complete with a comfortable cork grip and a stainless steel hooded reel seat. It also comes with a guide inset made from durable ceramic materials.

The 20 Voyager reel is made from a corrosion-resistant graphite frame that surrounds the ball-bearing drive system.

St Croix Triumph

The St Croix name is a powerhouse in the fishing industry. This travel spinning rod comes with aluminum-oxide guides. Overall, you can count on excellent strength, hook-setting power, and sensitivity you can count on.

Comes complete with a hand-carry case, and is a beautiful, well-crafted rod.

Ugly Stik GX2 Pack

This combo is easy to pack and bring along with you. Not only does it offer durable construction with the Ugly Stik name. But the aluminum spool is also very lightweight while providing maximum strength.

It is easy to pack and set up and is lightweight despite its solid, durable foundation.

Comes with a convenient travel bag with an adjustable strap.

Daiwa Mini System Ultralight Reel and Rod Combo

This mini system is the best fishing rod option for those looking to pack light! It comes with its carry case, making travel a breeze.

The rod features an ultralight reel that offers easy dragging.

The reel comes complete with a ball bearing drive, a 5.1:1 retrieve, and a multi-disc drag. Basically, this combo makes fishing very simple for you to enjoy when traveling in the great outdoors!

Your Vote on the Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel

I'd love to hear your input. Please share your opinion on the best travel fishing rod and reel in the comments below.

What About the Florida Keys ?

Do you want to hit Key West, the Everglades National Park, and all the other great things the Keys have to offer? Well, we have just the thing for you. Jennifer and I love traveling to the Keys, so we've created a complete 7-Day RV Adventure Guide: Florida Keys . This downloadable guide includes a suggested itinerary and a list of the best RV parks along the way.

We also have a 7 -Day RV Adventure Guide to Florida's Atlantic Coast and Florida's Gulf Coast . If you're interested in all three, you should check out our Florida RV Travel Guide Bundle .

Published on 2022-01-16

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

One Response to “The Best Travel Fishing Rod and Reel”

January 16, 2022at8:23 pm , Les Layer said:

For fly fishing a tenkara rod makes great back packing rod

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

35 Critical Things to Know Before You Take Delivery of a New RV

Should You Use RV Tire Covers While Camping?

10 Best Pet Accessories for Camping with Your Dog

This website is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission.

Best Travel Rod and Reel Combo

Travel rod and reel combos – Buying Guide, Reviews and Comparison

If you want to find the best fishing gear, but you don’t have time to go through the buying tips and reviews prepared by our research team, this short paragraph should tell you everything you need to know about the best travel rod and reel combo. After analyzing a lot of feedback coming from both amateur and professional fishermen, we have concluded that the Okuma Voyager is the best because this convenient kit comes with a 6 foot rood and size 20 spinning reel so you are ready to fish almost anywhere. The blank is constructed from a composite material, and easily breaks down into 5 pieces for easy portability. The spinning reel is also designed to provide you with a smooth and reliable performance. If the Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager is not available, you should consider the Daiwa Mini System as it is a reliable alternative both in terms of performance and quality.

Comparison table

Our Top Choice

This multi-piece rod and reel combo can allow you to be prepared for every fishing opportunity at all times. It’s made from resilient materials and can be utilized for a variety of freshwater species. Given that the pole is made out of graphite, it doesn’t weigh too much and therefore, it will be a pleasure to hold in your hands.

Some owners might find that they have to retighten everything from time to time. This is an issue that occurs with many multi-piece travel rods.

Given its cost, the value it offers, and the fact that it is made from great materials, this unit is definitely worth checking out.

This ultralight system has been designed specifically for panfish, so you might not be able to utilize it for large and heavy species. Nonetheless, the product promises a smooth and reliable performance thanks to the excellent multi-piece rod and 4.9:1 reel. This alternative is also quite affordable, especially compared to others.

Various users say that it is still a better idea to opt for a telescopic rod and reel combo instead of a multi-piece one as the construction might be flimsy.

Because it is a durable and well-designed choice, you might have to give this one a shot, as well. It also doesn’t break the bank.

Also To Consider

In the neatly packed case supplied with your purchase, you will find a telescopic rod that is easy to put together, a graphite reel that offers smooth operation, and a wide variety of lures and accessories. The compact design makes it a fine choice for those who value portability above everything else. Comfort and convenience are two important traits of this combo kit.

Because both the rod and reel are relatively small, they are not suitable for catching big fish that might struggle a lot.

A compact and convenient kit that contains, besides a rod and a reel, all the necessary tackle so you can start fishing right away.

6 Best Travel Rod and Reel Combos (Reviews) in 2024

The main advantage of owning a travel rod and reel combo is the simple fact that you will always have your gear with you. While we can’t choose the right gear for you, we can help you make an informed decision, which is why you can find the best travel rod and reel combos showcased below.

1. Okuma Unisex’s 330782-SSI Voyager Spin Combo Travel Kit

The 6 foot rod is constructed from lightweight graphite that is also sensitive. Its length is perfect for longer casts, and you will still be able to feel every tug on your line.

The stainless steel guides are lightweight and durable, and thanks to the ceramic inserts your line will always flow freely.

The spinning reel is also constructed from a lightweight material that is resistant to rust and corrosion. The stainless steel ball bearings ensure a smooth and reliable performance so you can enjoy a successful fishing trip.

Designed as a full travel kit for anglers, this choice features a 6-foot long, 5-piece travel rod and a size 20 Voyager reel. Both components boast quality craftsmanship for many fishing seasons of use.

The rod features a sensitive, five-piece composite blank that breaks down for easy transport and storage. It comes with cork handles that deliver a lightweight design while being sensitive and easy to handle.

The reel is ideal for walleye, catfish , bass, panfish, and trout fishing . It fits nicely into the stainless steel hooded reel seat on the rod to provide a secure and stable rig.

Along the rod, durable ceramic guide inserts are evenly distributed, which serve to keep the line flat and straight. This results in less friction between the rod surface and the fishing line . Any abrasion between the two elements could cause the line to snap or get tangled.

According to a customer, there’s a need to re-tighten everything in the assembled outfit periodically since the components tend to loosen with use.

2. Daiwa 942062-SSI Minispin System Travel Kit

Every component on this rod and reel combo is designed for durability and performance. The ultralight spinning rod is the perfect choice for trout and other panfish, and its 4.5 foot length allows you to make short and long casts.

The spinning reel is constructed from a lightweight and corrosion resistant metal, and designed to work perfectly with the ultralight rod.

With multiple disc drag and a ball bearing drive, you can enjoy a reliable and smooth performance on every cast and retrieval.

Get an ultralight reel and a matching ultralight rod in the package. The five-piece rod and ball bearing outfitted reel work nicely together to provide a fishing rig you can travel with.

Thanks to the 4.9:1 gear ratio of the reel, you can get a faster release of the fishing line with every turn of the handle. When you crank the reel handle, the spool revolves 4.9 times so retrieves and casting are easy to perform.

Customers love how the 4.5-foot, multi-piece rod accepts 2 to 6-pound test lines along with 1/16 to ¼ ounce lures, which enables them to fish a variety of tackle.

Enjoy Twist Buster line spin reduction plus Gyro Spin balancing with the cutting-edge fishing reel in the package.

All the components of the kit are encased in an ultra-compact hard case with convenient built-in tackle compartments for hassle-free organization.

According to one customer, this package is best for those who are short on space but not for those who need space for a lot more.

3. Kalex Telescopic Fishing Kit & Combo 

This kit will surely make your day if you are the type of angler who prefers to have everything in the same place. In it, you will find a telescopic rod that is easy to carry around and a reel that ensures smooth operation. Other accessories are included, such as small red beads, offset worm hooks, jig heads, monofilament line, and even a crankbait, to mention but a few.

They are all organized in a nice looking case, so that will be all you need to pack for your next fishing adventure. Now, you probably want to know more about the rod and reel combo. The rod is made from carbon composite, and it is particularly strong and sensitive.

The reel is made from graphite, and that also contributes to the light weight of the entire combo. Another thing you will be happy to learn is that the reel comes with a 4+1 ball bearing system that makes it easy to use.

Capable of folding down to 21 inches, this combo is the solution to all those anglers who want a kit they can carry anywhere without any trouble.

The rod blanks are made from carbon composite and offer the light action that beginners may appreciate the most when they first cast their line.

A multi-disc drag system makes the reel on this model an absolute winner because of the excellent performance offered.

You will surely appreciate the plethora of accessories offered, such as offset worm hooks, grubs, a crankbait, monofilament fishing line, and many others.

Everything about this kit caters to comfort and convenience, as you can tell from the soft-touch handle knob, and the stainless steel guides present.

You must know that both the reel and the rod are on the small side, so they might not be the best solution if what you have in mind is going after big fish that fight a lot.

4. Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

The telescopic fishing pole included in this combo is made from carbon fiber, so it’s lightweight and portable. Since you probably want to get this combo so that you can travel without any problems with your fishing gear in tow, that’s a significant benefit. Along with the rod, you will receive a dependable reel and multiple other accessories.

Among these, you will find three fishing lures, 110 yards of fishing line, and others. You will be able to go on your fishing trip without having to spend extra. You will notice that the rod is a bit stiff, and that happens because of the combination of fiberglass and carbon fiber.

The guide rings are made from ceramic, and that’s a puzzle since this aspect will ensure that the line will suffer significantly less friction on the retrieve. The reel comes with 13+1 ball bearings that offer smooth operation, while the EVA handle provides non-slip, comfortable performance.

Lightweight and easy to carry around, this combo won’t take up a lot of room in your car trunk when you want to travel to your fishing destination.

With a gear ratio of 5:5:1, it is a powerful combo that will help you catch plenty of fish without any glitches.

The machined aluminum handle can be switched for left-hand or right-hand operation so that no one is left out.

Its spool is made from aerospace-grade aluminum, and it has a honeycomb design that makes it particularly robust and dependable.

Regardless of whether you go freshwater or saltwater fishing, this combo will serve you well.

The eyelets come unglued once in a while, so you will need to employ some maintenance to keep the setup working as it should.

Overall, the rod is not on par, quality-wise, with the reel, and you may want to replace it after a while.

5. Plusinno Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Telescopic Rod

If you’re looking for an affordable rod and reel combo to get you started with your fishing passion, this package from Plusinno could prove a smart investment in the long term. It is available in four sizes, ranging from 5.91 feet to 8.86 feet, depending on how far you want to cast and what type of fish you’re mainly interested in. 

Keep in mind that the combo only includes the rod and the reel, so there are no lures or lines, which means you’ll have to purchase them separately. 

The fishing pole provides perfect elasticity thanks to its high-density carbon fiber construction combined with fiberglass. As a result, you’re looking at a hard and durable product that will resist the wind, various water conditions, and the test of time. 

The stainless steel hooded reel seat is made from the best materials to resist corrosion and rust caused by seawater, while the EVA fore grip adds comfort and ensures a good grip. 

The telescopic fishing rod is portable, lightweight, and convenient to carry around, delivering a medium intensity power, suitable for many small and medium-sized fish. 

Thanks to the instant anti-reverse function, the combo is equipped for high strength to allow you to enjoy a good fishing experience, regardless of your level of expertise. 

The pole is made of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass to deliver durability and strength, so you won’t have to worry about it breaking or chipping in time. 

There is also the option to purchase the full kit that, apart from the rod and reel, also includes one line, one fishing lure, and a carrier bag for convenient and easy transportation and storage.

The set of the rod and reel, although sturdy, is also heavy and doesn’t seem weighted too well. It is also stiff which means you have to make some adjustments to match various types of fishing. 

The stiffness of the rod may also cause hand fatigue and pain when you spend long hours with your rod. 

6. Flying Fisherman Passport Travel Fishing Rod

Are you looking for a reliable yet affordable rod that will help you improve your fishing techniques and catch the biggest fish in the pond? The new Passport Travel rod from Flying Fisherman is made of high-quality Japanese graphite and includes an outstanding Portuguese cork for improved gripping. Besides, the handle will reduce hand fatigue even when you’re operating the rod for many hours in a row.

The product is available in three styles – light, medium, and heavy, depending on your fishing style and the kind of fish you would like to catch. The blank taper is specifically designed to increase strength, sensitivity, and performance, allowing you to easily sense whenever the fish bites the bait.

Unlike other products with similar price tags, this one is delivered in a protective case that will absorb shocks and will keep your fishing gear away from dust, salt, and sun exposure.

The item is designed to meet the needs of both professional anglers and amateurs, and it is available in three sizes, depending on your fishing style and technique.

The rod is made of superior-quality graphite that won’t chip, rust or corrode in time, while the cork-like handle ensures a firm grip. It will protect your hands from sweating and will prevent hand fatigue, even when operating the rod for a long time.

The blank taper will improve sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest move of a fish that took the bait. As a result, you won’t let any fish escape.

The rod is delivered in a protective case that absorbs shocks.

Some customers mentioned the handle construction is quite flimsy, allowing it to bounce back and forth and losing balance.

It doesn’t absorb hand sweat as good as advertised either, so you may require extra protection if you plan on fishing in the hot summer sun.

Buying guide

Almost anywhere you go you can find at least one great spot to drop in a line, as long as you have your gear with you. Carrying around a 6 foot or even a 4 foot fishing rod is not always practical, and this can leave you without your gear. A travel rod and reel combo is easily portable so you are always ready to fish. If you are interested in the best rod and reel combo for the money but don’t know what to look for, the following tips in this buying guide will help you get started.

The travel rod and reel reviews all agree that you first one to decide on a budget before you start shopping. Not only will this help narrow down your choices, it will also ensure that the rod and reel combo is exactly what you need. While you don’t have to spend a lot of money on a good rod and reel, you do want to be careful and not purchase an inferior product. You don’t want your gear to break when you are in the middle of your trip.

Since this is a travel combo you want the rod to be easy to break down or collapse to a manageable size. This is true for rods of any size, even shorter 4 foot models. The construction of the rod will vary according to your needs and preferences, with graphite being the lightest and fiberglass the heaviest. Graphite is also sensitive, while fiberglass rods are less prone to breaking. You can also find composite rods which have some of the attributes of both materials.

Stainless steel guides are durable and resistant to corrosion, and will ensure you line flows smoothly. You also want to make sure that the handle is comfortable to grasp, and that it is wrapped in EVA foam or soft cork.

Spinning reels are typically preferred by experienced anglers since they have more control over their line. Beginners usually do better with a spincast reel since its closed face designed prevents snarls and tangles in the line. Both types of reels can be found with travel fishing combos, and the right one for you will often depend on your skill level. You do want to make sure that the gears and ball bearings are constructed from a durable metal so you can depend on a reliable performance.

Unavailable products

Sougayilang Combo

The rod is constructed from a composite material so it is relatively lightweight, flexible and sensitive. This not only allows you to feel every nibble, but it also makes the telescopic rod easier to handle on long distance casts.

The durable guides ensure that rigging is a breeze, and since they are resistant to corrosion you don’t have to worry about friction interfering with the flow of the line.

The spinning reel is also designed to be lightweight, and to provide you with exceptionally smooth casts and retrievals.

Comprising a fishing rod and reel, this combo kit provides value for the money. Consumers who want to optimize every penny they spend on their fishing rig will appreciate this option.

Portable and proven to be easy to use, this choice features a carbon fiber fishing rod that offers a high density to deliver reliable performance through the years with its durability. The rod has an assembled length of 6.56 feet and retracts to an easy-to-transport 1.34 feet.

With its 11 ball bearings, the fishing reel in the package runs smoothly in releasing the line as well as during the cast. The device offers a variety of line capacities for versatility in functionality.

The rod’s portable closed length design does not compromise its capacity to handle heavy load and to still offer good elasticity.

A customer has noted that the reel seat appears to spin freely from the rest of the rod since it isn’t anchored to the pole that runs through the reel seat center.

Daiwa ETPSF200 CF3Bi WN Executive Travel Pack

Not only this, but the construction and feel of this setup can make you enjoy your angling trip a lot more. The neat thing about this combo is that it boasts a reliable graphite construction, thus making you entirely capable of enjoying a light, yet totally reliable feel. Smooth retrieves become a reality with the help of this ensemble as the reel comes with an extra bearing for this purpose.

What’s more, you won’t have any issue getting a solid grip on the situation as the pole has been outfitted with EVA foam grips. Besides, it’s worth noting that the product is accompanied by a miniature tackle box where you can store anything from your hooks to your swivels and lures. When it comes to portability, this Daiwa option is a net winner.

As for the user feedback, you might want to know that most of the fishermen and women who have chosen the combo say that it makes a great compact choice for those moments when a fishing occasion arises by accident.

Far from being just a toy tackle kit, this option features a full-size fishing outfit that you can effortlessly bring to any fishing location anytime.

In the briefcase-style hard case, you can find a removable, miniature tackle box that provides easy storage for essential gear including hooks, swivels, lures, and others. An integrated space is available for spare spools of fishing line.

Included in the package is a Daiwa Wilderness light action fly/spinning rod that breaks down into 6 pieces and when fully assembled, measures 6 feet 6 inches.

You won’t get hand fatigue too easily thanks to the rod’s EVA foam grips that ensure handling comfort. The component is also designed to be resistant to dents and chipping.

Attaching the fishing reel is easy thanks to the unlocking reel seat, which allows the rod to adapt to your reel of choice as well.

Although one customer likes the kit overall, they wish there was more space in the kit to accommodate more gear.

Ugly Stik Spinning Fishing Combo Kit

The item is available in two styles, one designed for freshwater, and the other one for saltwater, but we recommend purchasing them both to allow extended flexibility when fishing. The set contains a two-piece spinning rod and a reel.

The spinning reel is made of high-quality graphite that won’t chip or break when getting in contact with water. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy the same product for many years from now on. The items are both lightweight and durable, allowing you to easily carry them with you anywhere you go.

When purchasing this reel kit, you’ll also receive a high-quality fishing line, suitable for casting it in saltwater or freshwater. The maximum line weight the spool on this kit can hold is 17 pounds, enough for small-to-medium-sized fish. Moreover, you can cast it up to 225 yards away, making the product suitable for rock fishing and shore fishing.

Purchasing the kit, you’ll get all the necessary accessories for a fruitful fishing trip, including assorted tackles and a high-quality line that helps you cast up to 225 yards away and catch fish up to 17 pounds.

The two-piece spinning rod is lightweight and convenient to carry as it won’t occupy too much space in your luggage.

You can choose between the saltwater kit and the freshwater kit, allowing you to fully customize your fishing experience according to your needs and improving your chance of catching the big fish.

The spinning reel is made of superior-quality graphite and features a top coat that will prevent rusting or chipping when exposed to water or sun rays.

According to some customers who purchased the set, the handle is rather loose and flimsy, so you need to pay extra care when fishing for the big catch.

CAPACI Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos 

Another solution for those who want a complete fishing kit to take with them on their trips is this model from CAPACI. You will get a telescopic rod made from carbon fiber, a reel, a carrying bag, fishing line, and some accessories that will help you make the best out of your fishing adventure.

The fishing rod is made from a combination of high-density carbon and fiberglass so that you can experience proper heat dissipation, durability, and sensitivity. The guides are designed to offer a low friction coefficient to ensure that your line won’t get damaged.

The reel is another solid reason why this kit enjoys a lot of positive feedback from users. It is sealed to protect water and dust, while the line roller helps prevent twists and tangles. The bag offered for carrying all the elements of the kit is also of high quality.

The fishing rod included in this kit is made from durable materials that ensure that you will be able to use it for a long time.

You will also discover that the reel is a heavy-duty model designed to repel water and dust for long-lasting performance.

A dual knob design makes the reel stable, and you will be able to enjoy excellent control.

If you want to go fishing right away, you will be happy to see that there are 23 accessories included, along with monofilament line.

The rod is pretty stiff for what you might expect from a carbon fiber model, and that means that there is a risk that it might break at the tip.

Also, the monofilament line provided is not particularly sturdy, and you shouldn’t use it for anything other than small fish.

Eagle Claw Unisex’s Pack-It Spinning Telescopic Fishing Rod

This telescopic spinning rod comes with an adjustable length that allows you to easily carry it with you in your backpack, without occupying too much space or being too heavy.

It is made of durable glass, perfect for trunk, trail or turbo-prop. The handle is made of EVA foam to perfectly mold on your palms, ensuring a strong grip and preventing hand fatigue, even when handling it for many hours. Therefore, you will enjoy a fruitful fishing trip without hurting your hands in the process.

The reel seat is made of graphite, while the ceramic guides complete the look on this telescopic rod.

The product makes the perfect choice for anglers on the go and is suitable for both beginners and professionals, helping you catch more fish. Most customers who purchased the item agreed on its quality, stating that it is also affordable. So why not give it a try on your own and let us know what you think?

Solid and reliable, you can count on this telescopic rod to help you catch as many fish as you want, regardless of your skills.

The telescopic handle makes it easy and convenient to transport, as it can fit in any backpack without occupying too much space either.

The handle is made of soft and durable EVA foam, ensuring a stable and secure grip. It perfectly molds on your hands, reducing hand fatigue to a minimum, even when operating it for many hours.

We also liked that the item is lightweight, so you won’t have to worry about hurting your hand or your shoulder when transporting it.

When it reaches the maximum length, the product tends to get stuck in this position, defeating the entire purpose of having a telescopic rod in the first place. We suggest you handle the item carefully, without any sudden moves.

Bibliography:

1) Protect Travel Fishing Rods

2) Fishing rods – useful information

3) Travel rods – many options

4) Fishing Tips & Better Hunting Hacks

Leave a comment

DAIWA TRAVEL COMBO

Msrp $149.99.

Add to wishlist

View Wishlist

• FIND A DEALER

Don't get stuck on your next trip without having your Daiwa rod and reel. The Daiwa Compact Travel kit comes with a high-quality telescopic rod developed with Daiwa's patented V-Joint technology that eliminates flat spots where the connection points are on multi piece rods. 

The rod come both in a cork handle and EVA handle model for your personal preference. This rod and reel kit paired with a Daiwa Crossfire 2500 reel so you know you have quality and smoothness at your fingertips. A carrying case allows for convenient easy storage in your luggage on in the trunk of your car.   

SPECIFICATIONS

MSRP prices may be subject to change

Compare Products

*Please remove a product

#DAIWA USA TO BE FEATURED

We want to hook you up with all the latest products and exclusive offers. Drop your email below to join our tribe of die-hard anglers.

MY WISHLIST

Wishlist and compare.

Do you want to add products to your personal account?

• Shop Brands
• Reels Shop All
• Casting Reels
• Spinning Reels
• Spincast Reels
• Rods Shop All
• Casting Rods
• Spinning Rods
• Combos Shop All
• Casting Combos
• Spinning Combos
• Spincast Combos
• Fishing Line
• Baits Shop All
• Spinnerbaits
• Umbrella Rigs
• Technique Specific
• Lure Making & Customization
• Hooks, Weights & Terminal Tackle Shop All
• Accessories
• Fish Finders & Chartplotters
• Boating Accessories
• TW Exclusives
• Learning Learning Center
• Video Vault Video Vault
• New New Items
• Trophy Best Sellers
• Pro Spotlight Pro Spotlight
• Support Support Center
• Account Account
• Wishlist Wishlist
• Gift Cards Gift Cards
• Mailing List Mailing List

Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods

Free return shipping is available for all orders shipped within the 48 contiguous United States. These orders will include a complimentary pre-paid UPS Ground return label in the box when the order is delivered. If you use the pre-paid return label provided, please allow 7-10 business days for the return package to arrive back at Tackle Warehouse.

Orders shipped to international, APO/FPO, Alaskan or Hawaiian addresses or U.S. territories are not eligible for the free return shipping offer. Drop Ship and Oversized Items are not eligible for the free return shipping offer.

Please use our Returns & Exchange form found on the back of your printed invoice. If you don't have your original invoice you can download our Tackle Warehouse Return Form .

Contact us with any questions or concerns!

Phone: 1.800.300.4916 Email: [email protected]

Tackle Warehouse wants you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned at any point in new condition within 365-days of the original invoice date.

Products returned in new, store-bought condition are eligible for exchange, refund, or Tackle Warehouse store credit for the full value of your purchase.

Please note that while we want you to be happy with your purchases, an excessive number of returns within a twelve-month period may limit your eligibility for refund or store credit.

Products returned beyond 365-days from the original invoice date or that are unable to be returned to stock may be eligible for store credit at the sole discretion of Tackle Warehouse.

Original shipping charges are non-refundable.

Used baits & tackle are not eligible for return.

Designed with the wandering angler in mind, the Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods offer incredible performance in a packable package that is perfect for chasing your passion while away from home. For a highly responsive foundation, the Convergence Travel Rods trust in premium carbon blanks that deliver incredible sensitivity without adding excess weight. In addition to their superior performance, the carbon blanks also come segmented in 4-pieces, complete with a travel case, to cater to anglers on the go.

To ensure anglers hit the water with a fully capable piece of equipment, the Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods come outfitted with a tournament-caliber components package that is ideal for multi-species fishing. The base of the rods are encased in premium cork grips that offer an extremely comfortable experience with the integrated Fuji reel seats. Further up the blank, anglers will undoubtedly appreciate the Seaguide Aluminum Oxide guides that ensure expert line management and quiet casts every time you launch your favorite lure. Finished up with an accommodating hook keeper on the blank, the Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods are ready for anything your next adventure on the water throws at you.

-Lightweight and Sensitive Carbon Blanks -SeaGuide Aluminum Oxide Guides -Premium Cork Handles -Integrated Hook Keeper -Fuji Reel Seat -4-Piece Construction -Includes Travel Tube -Limited 1-Year Warranty

Specifications

More from shimano.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to review this item.

• 5'7" (1.7m) Telescopic Travel Rod Combo
• 6'9" (2.1m) Telescopic Travel Rod Combo
• 7'10" All in One Telescopic Combo
• 5'7" (1.7m) Telescopic Travel Rod Only
• 6'9" (2.1m) Telescopic Travel Rod Only
• 7'10" (2.4m) Telescopic Fishing Rod Only
• S3000 Spinning Reel
• Carrying Bag
• Rod Tip Repair Kit
• Your Cart is Empty

Chase the Thrill

Kingswell Portable All in One Travel Rod

Performance and Durability

Feel the bite

Our flagship 609MH rod is designed with for durability and performance. To start off, we use 24/30 high modulus carbon fiber. Our rod is carefully crafted with an aggressive medium heavy spine that can handle bigger fish and a sensitive tip for jigs, crankbaits, etc. It’s paired with our S3000 reel equipped with high quality, stainless steel ball bearings that provide a smooth retrieve.

Compact and Portable

Slims down to 1/3 of it's size

Our 6'9" telescopic rod collapses down to 22" making it easier to carry in a car, backpack, or airplane. Pre-tie your favorite rig and place it on the hook keeper before heading out to your favorite fishing destination and enjoy more time catching fish.

Easy to Assemble

Start with the tip

Assembling the rod starts by extending the tip of the rod. We've provided alignment lines on each section to make assembly easier. Using the alignment guides ensures that your rod is lined up correctly.

Kingswell 6'9" All in One Telescopic Combo

$79.99 $114.98

Our flagship 6'9" telescopic pole all in one travel rod combo is designed as an all around travel pole. It collapses down to 22" making it portable and easy to carry. It's comprised of a medium heavy spine that provides a strong backbone needed when fighting larger fish and a sensitive tip for crankbaits, worms, and spinnerbaits. The rod features a real wood foregrip, EVA foam handle, and removable butt cap. This rod is paired with our S3000 5+1 stainless steel ball bearing spinning reel.

• 6'9" graphite carbon telescopic fishing rod
• S3000 5+1 stainless steel ball bearing reel ( fishing line not included )
• Carrying bag (optional)

Notify me when this product is available:

Featured collection

Kingswell 6'9" Telescopic Fishing Rod Only

Our flagship all purpose telescopic travel fishing rod extends to 6'9" and collapses down to 21.5". The rod is designed with a rigid base that becomes...

Kingswell 5'7" All in One Telescopic Combo

This Kingswell 5'7" all in one telescopic travel rod combo is designed as an all around fishing kit. It's our shortest model, collapsing down to 19", making...

Kingswell 5'7" Telescopic Fishing Rod Only

This Kingswell telescopic fishing rod extends to 5'7" and collapses down to 19". It's a shorter version of our flagship 6'9" rod. This rod features a strong...

Kingswell S3000 Spinning Reel

The S3000 spinning reel is our freshwater spinning reel. It's equipped with stainless steel ball bearings for a smooth retrieve and long lasting performance. The...

Business Address

900 Turnbull Canyon Rd. City of Industry, CA 91745

• Instructions
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more…

© 2024 Kingswell .

Save 10% Off

FREE STANDARD SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS. Details

• Prevail III Inshore Spinning Rod
• Spinfisher VII Spinning Reel
• Squall II Lever Drag Conventional Reel
• Wrath II Spinning Reel
• Battle III LE Combo
• Slammer IV Spinning Reel 6500 5:6:1
• International VISX Extreme Conventional Reel 50 3:5:1
• Fathom II Lever Drag Two-Speed Conventional Reel 60N
• Inshore Fishing
• Nearshore Fishing
• Offshore Fishing
• Surf Fishing

• 1000 - 2000
• 2000 - 3000
• 3000 - 4000
• 4000 - 5000
• 5000 - 6000
• 6000 - 7000
• 7000 - 8000
• International
• Pliers & Crimps
• Filet Knives
• Line Winder
• Oil, Grease & Cleaner
• Rod and Reel Covers
• Performance Wear

Your cart is currently empty. Stock up on what you need for your next adventure.

• Inshore fishing reels
• Saltwater rods
• Fishing gear
• Inshore fishing combos
• Fillet knife
• Casting rods
• Spinning rods

Pursuit® IV Spinning Travel Rod & Reel Combo

• HT-100™ drag washers provide smooth drag under heavy loads
• 4 sealed stainless steel ball bearings
• PENN® Dura-Guides
• Graphite Composite Blank
• Comfortable EVA Grips
• Includes custom travel case

Compare Pursuit® IV Spinning Travel Rod & Reel Combo Models

Fishing rod is great, does what I need it to. But the customer service of Penn is what really stands out. My rod got lost in the mail and after 3 weeks of UPS not delivering, Penn sent me a new one, almost immediately! I expressed my concern because I bought this rod for a vacation trip and needed it sooner then later.

Bought for a trip to the Florida keys. Caught over 100 fish with it. Highly recommended for travel

Im so happy with my purchase, its works very good

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.

• svg]:stroke-primary"> 735K
• svg]:stroke-primary"> 133K
• svg]:stroke-primary"> 54.1K

The Best Spinning Rod and Reel Combos of 2023

By Pete Robbins

Posted on Dec 15, 2023 12:08 PM EST

6 minute read

Best Tournament Ready

Abu garcia veritas spinning combo, best design features, favorite sick stick spinning combo, best underspin, zebco 33 gold micro triggerspin combo.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

While some anglers like to mix and match their spinning rods and reels, often the best way to purchase those two items is in a combo form. By purchasing the two items together, you can likely gain a discount over buying them a la carte. You can also be certain they’re balanced and work together well. Here are some of the best spinning rod and reel combos that I recommend.

• Best Tournament Ready :  Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Combo
• Best Design Features :  Favorite Sick Stick Spinning Combo
• Best Underspin :  Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin Combo
• Best for Beginners : Shimano Sienna Spinning Combo
• Best Workhorse :  Lew’s American Hero Spinning Combo
• Best for Travel :  Daiwa Revros LT Travel Pack (Medium )

Best Spinning Rod and Reel Combos: Reviews and Recommendations

Best tournament ready:  abu garcia veritas spinning combo.

Key Features

• Two rod choices: 6 feet 6 inches (2 piece) and 7 feet
• Either 1/8 to 1/2 ounces or 3/16 to 5/8 ounce lure ratings
• 6.2:1 gear ratio
• 11 total bearings
• Excellent balance
• Light weight
• Super-smooth drag system
• Some anglers may not like white handles

Abu Garcia has multiple spinning rod and reel combos available at a wide range of price points, and this one near the top should get accolades because it won’t become obsolete anytime soon. With a premium drag system, the company’s robotically optimized casting system, titanium guide train, and rocket line management system, this is a combo that excels on local farm ponds and competing for six-figure tournament prizes. It’s accurate and lightweight, and while some anglers may be put off by the all-white components, including closed-cell EVA grips, we found that they didn’t get excessively dirty even when put through repeated stress tests.

Read Next : Best Baitcaster Combos

Best Design Features:  Favorite Sick Stick Spinning Combo

• Length: 7 feet 1 inch 
• Power: Medium heavy
• ¼ to 3/4 ounce lure rating
• 5.2:1 gear ratio
• Six total bearings
• Lightweight yet powerful
• Comfortable split grip handle
• Multi-layer carbon blank
• Gear ratio not as fast as some others

Relative newcomer Favorite incorporates forward-facing design features into many of their products, and this one is no exception. It lives up to its ninja-like, blacked-out appearance with an aluminum reel spool that’s ported to reduce weight without sacrificing structural integrity. The rod is a little more powerful than those served up in many spinning rod combos. But you wouldn’t know it by lifting the Favorite Sick Stick because it’s remarkably light, and together, the two components balance well. This is a pure and simple bass whipping stick, and while it might be overkill for panfish or trout, it’ll also serve you well for catfish, pike, and light saltwater use.

Read Next: Best Bass Lures

Best Underspin:  Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin Combo

• Length: 5 feet
• Lure Rating: 1/64 to 1/8 ounce 
• 4.3:1 gear ratio
• Three total bearings
• Time-tested design
• Super-simple to operate
• Instant anti-reverse clutch
• May struggle with larger fish

If you’re just getting started with fishing, or want a zero-hassle combo at a bargain price, this is a time-tested option. It combines the closed-face construction of a spincasting reel with the under-the-handle positioning of a spinning reel. It doesn’t have the line twist problems of the latter, nor will light line billow off an open spool in a heavy wind. Granted, the rod is very light, and you won’t be able to use heavy line, but this is a great place to start for small streams, smaller fish, and diminutive lures. It has a faster gear ratio than most spincast reels, and features like instant anti-reverse that would not have been found in similar products a generation ago. When simplicity of operation and light lures are key, this is a surprisingly fun choice.

Best for Beginners: Shimano Sienna Spinning Combo

• 7 feet, medium action
• Four total bearings
• Full cork rod handle
• Graphite composite rod at a fiberglass price
• Propulsion line management system for long casts
• Excellent drag system for larger fish
• Not as sensitive as some all-graphite rods

Shimano’s spinning reels are world-renowned for their advanced features and premier construction. For a small fraction of the price of even their mid-range reels, it’s possible to get a trickle down of those features, plus a decent rod, in a balanced package that’ll handle a wide range of bass tactics. The striking, red-spooled reel pairs perfectly with the medium-action rod. The nice thing about the rod itself is that it’s excellent with a wide range of finesse techniques, but it’ll handle slightly heavier line and the associated power fishing strategies. Accordingly, for anglers who are just starting out, or who have to stick to a strict budget, this quality combo provides a lot of bang for the buck.

Best Workhorse:  Lew’s American Hero Spinning Combo

• Three Rod Lengths: 6 feet, 6 feet 6 inches and 7 feet
• Two piece graphite rod construction
• Split grip EVA handle
• Three rod choices
• Sensitive IM6 graphite rod blanks
• Quick retrieve ratio
• No medium-heavy or heavy option

Over the last decade or so, Lew’s reestablished itself as an industry leader by giving serious tournament anglers what they want and need, at a wide range of prices. These three combo options continue that trend, and they do so in a package that is both durable and refined. I found that you could take these rods pounding through waves, use the tips to dislodge snagged lures, and boat flip big fish, and all they did was come back begging for more like a Labrador retriever puppy. The blue accents stand out among a sea of bland copycats, and while I’d generally prefer one-piece construction, the ferrule created no meaningful loss of sensitivity or fluidity. Indeed, some anglers may prefer that it makes it easier to transport.

Best for Travel:  Daiwa Revros LT Travel Pack (Medium)

• Four-piece, 6-foot 6-inch rod
• ¼-3/4 ounce lures
• Full cork handle
• Briefcase style travel case for easy transport
• Includes small tackle box for terminal tackle
• Lightweight but strong tubular air bail design
• Four-piece design necessarily sacrifices some sensitivity (but not much)

The included briefcase-style carrying case says it all—this is a combo made for business. Tuck it into your suitcase, under the seat of your vehicle, or in a backpack, and you’ll be ready to fish at a moment’s notice. Daiwa also makes this in lighter powers, but the medium is best for serious bass anglers or anyone who expects to tussle with larger species on the go. It’s not the fastest reel in creation, but at 5.2:1, it’s fast enough, and the five-bearing construction will survive repeated abuse by baggage handles and big fish alike. The mini tackle box won’t hold much, but it can contain certain basics that you’ll want everywhere. With the addition of a few lures you have an on-the-go option that means you’ll never have to look out at an inviting lake and wonder “What if?”

Read Next : Best Travel Fishing Rods

How We Chose the Best Spinning Combos

If you’re buying two items together to be paired up, the goals are twofold: First, to save money over buying them individually, and second, to ensure that they’re perfectly matched. Not all manufacturers heed these twin targets, failing on one account or both. We wanted combos that provided value and service. Otherwise it’s easier just to pick one from Column A and one from Column B. Most combos are meant to be mid-range powers to serve as jacks of all trades, so when we found something outside of that mold, we also considered whether that was a feature or a bug.

Final Thoughts on the Best Spinning Rod and Reel Combos

I’ll admit to a certain internal resistance when it came to testing combos. I had the prejudice that these pre-packaged pairings were dumbed down and made for the lowest common denominator angler. In some cases, especially where you need a staple remover to get them out of the packaging, that’s still true, but if you look carefully there are some premium packages—and other still-decent pairings at bargain prices—in this category. You might not only save money, but also save time and brain cells by choosing what those in the know believe is a perfect setup.

• Best Design Features :  Favorite Sick Stick Spinning Combo
• Best Underspin :  Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin Combo
• Best Workhorse :  Lew’s American Hero Spinning Combo
• Best for Travel :  Daiwa Revros LT Travel Pack (Medium )

• Rods & Reels
• Fishing Rods
• Travel & Pack Rods

Travel & Pack Fishing Rods

Travel & pack fishing rods: adventure awaits with compact convenience.

Travel and pack fishing rods are engineered for the angler on the go, breaking down into shorter sections or collapsing to a fraction of their assembled size for easy packing in luggage, backpacks , or even under a car seat. Whether you're jet-setting to exotic destinations, hiking into remote backcountry waters, or simply want to be prepared for impromptu fishing opportunities, these rods provide the convenience and reliability needed for diverse fishing adventures.

Shop our Travel & Pack Rod Reel Combos !

Our collection features a wide array of travel and pack fishing rods, including telescopic models that extend and collapse with ease, as well as multi-piece rods that offer the feel and performance of traditional one-piece rods. Constructed from durable, high-quality materials and available in a range of lengths, actions, and power ratings, our travel rods are suited for everything from light freshwater applications to more robust saltwater challenges.

The effectiveness of our travel and pack fishing rods lies in their innovative design, which ensures that portability doesn't come at the expense of performance. Advanced materials and construction techniques maintain sensitivity, strength, and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the same quality fishing experience you'd expect from standard rods. With features like secure and easy-to-use connection points, comfortable grips, and balanced actions, these rods are ready to perform whenever and wherever the fishing bug bites.

At FishUSA, we understand the allure of exploring new waters and the importance of having the right gear to make the most of every fishing opportunity. That's why our selection of travel and pack fishing rods includes options from the most trusted and adventurous brands in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned globe-trotter looking for the ultimate travel companion or an angler seeking a convenient option for spontaneous fishing trips, our travel and pack fishing rods are designed to meet your needs, offering the portability, durability, and performance required for successful angling adventures.

Explore our full collection of Fishing Rods !

Advertisement

The Best Fishing Rod and Reel

By Owen James Burke

You could easily spend thousands on a fishing rod and reel, but most casual fishers (and even some experts) would be happier with something more versatile and less expensive.

After interviewing experts and spending over 80 hours testing spinning rods and reels, we’ve determined that pairing the Ugly Stik GX2 rod with the Daiwa BG spinning reel makes the best all-around fishing outfit without breaking the bank. This combo compares favorably to outfits costing twice as much.

Everything we recommend

Ugly Stik GX2

Does-it-all rod.

This rod is known for its strength, durability, and versatility. It’s strong enough to handle salmon and other saltwater fish, but sensitive enough for trout.

Buying Options

Daiwa BG Spinning Reel

Well-built and affordable.

In the Daiwa, you get a reel with build quality and durability comparable to those of models costing $200 or more.

Shimano Saguaro

Same price, less sturdy.

This rod is a dependable workhorse, especially when casting heavier lures, but it may be too stiff for bait and bottom fishing.

Upgrade pick

Ugly Stik Elite

Good for lure fishing.

The Elite is a bit stiffer than the GX2 and typically costs $10 more, so it’s a great buy for lure fishers. But the GX2 is more versatile and cheaper.

The Daiwa BG and medium or medium-heavy Ugly Stik GX2 combination is more versatile and durable than anything else in the same price range. Spending less means losing out on long-term durability; spending more means you’re paying for features designed for specific kinds of fishing, or lighter-weight materials that are nice to have but unnecessary for a general-purpose fishing setup. (Daiwa’s 1500–2500 models are ideal for small trout streams but can also handle light inshore fishing for spotted seatrout and flounder, while the larger 5000 and 8000 models will handle larger inshore species and perhaps even small tuna and dolphinfish.)

However, if you never plan on targeting anything larger than trout and small freshwater bass or small inshore saltwater species (about 1 to 4 pounds), you can get away with the ultra-light version of the Ugly Stik GX2 and a smaller BG reel (size 2500 or less) and save a few bucks. If you’re fishing from shore in thick brush or in a narrow stream, consider a shorter rod, down to 5 feet or even 4 feet 6 inches, for tiny creeks and brooks.

Compared with our previous pick, the Penn Battle II—not to mention many higher-end Penn and Shimano reels—the BG is equipped with a more durable rotor, as well as stronger, individual springs for the anti-reverse clutch (which keeps the reel from spinning backward), and most notably, the very same ball bearings included in Daiwa’s and Shimano’s most expensive models.

The BG's design allows trapped water (a common issue with braided line especially) to drain through the reel. The drag mechanism is the same one found in higher-end $200-plus reels, but unique in the $100–$150 range. This makes it comparable in durability to reels that cost twice as much.

Priced about the same as the Ugly Stik GX2 rods, Shimano’s Saguaro line suffers in comparison in terms of flex as well as sturdiness—especially the guides. The pole’s stiffer graphite composite also makes it more brittle and less suitable for bait fishing. Still, for medium-weight jigging and topwater fishing, it would be a good choice.

An additional 35% more graphite in the rod is the main factor making the newer Ugly Stik Elite series our pick for lure fishing; the extra stiffness should help you manipulate your lure more realistically. The Elite comes in the same range of sizes as the GX2—we’d recommend a 7-foot-long medium to medium-heavy rod—and costs about $10 much more. That (slightly) higher price also gets you a grip that’s cork, instead of EVA foam.

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our spinning-rod pick: ugly stik gx2, our spinning-reel pick: daiwa bg spinning reel, runner-up rod: shimano saguaro, upgrade rod: ugly stik elite, care and maintenance, what about tackle storage, the competition.

I’m a United States Coast Guard–certified master captain, and I have been fishing since I could walk. I grew up working on charter boats in and around Long Island Sound, and reliable fishing gear has been paramount not only to my profession but also to my life. Having fished on a budget in settings as varied and diverse as the spring brooks of the Adirondack Mountains, the brown sludge that is the Hudson River, and the emerald coastal waters of New Zealand, I can say that a careful selection of the most durable all-around tackle has been essential to me.

To supplement my own expertise, I enlisted the help of veteran spinning-reel reviewer Alan Hawk , and also consulted Salt Water Sportsman contributing editor and Discovery Channel television host George Poveromo on what would be the ideal spinning-rod-and-reel setup for a casual fisher.

Like most fishers, I’m not able to carry, store, or afford a different rod and reel for every species of fish or method of fishing. So I picked an affordable, high-quality spinning-rod-and-reel combo that can work in as many fishing conditions and settings as possible—including saltwater and freshwater. This spinning-rod-and-reel setup is approachable enough for a novice to learn on, yet it performs well enough for a seasoned veteran to depend on.

In researching and testing, I prioritized attributes such as durability and build quality—features that anyone, regardless of skill level and intended use, can appreciate—over more specialized features such as multiple-geared reels for using live bait or especially stiff rods that can handle big fish but not smaller ones.

At the sub-$200 level, our selection for both a rod and a reel represents the most affordable but still reliable pairing we could recommend. You could easily spend $2,000 on a fishing rod if you’d like something ultralightweight or designed for a specific species you’re targeting, but our pick will get the job done almost as well (if not just as well) most of the time. Similarly, you could go cheaper, but then you’d give up reliability.

If you’re more experienced and looking for a specific rod and reel, apart from the size of the fish you’re targeting, you’ll also have to take into account what kind of fishing you’ll be doing: Will you be casting artificial lures (objects designed to look like fish or other prey with a hook attached), or using bait (smaller fish, worms, or other natural prey, either alive or dead)? Most lure fishers will want a stiffer rod composed of graphite (or mostly graphite) so that they can “work” a jig or plug to imitate the movements of prey, while bait fishers might seek out a rod that’s a little looser or more sensitive, so as to detect the slightest strike. Our rod recommendation can do both things decently, but if you know you’ll be doing only one or the other, you should look into a more specialized setup.

First off, I had to decide what kind of rod and reel we would focus on, which was an easy choice—if you’re going to own only one fishing rod and reel, a spinning-rod-and-reel setup is the most versatile and the easiest to use.

Compared with a baitcasting or fly-fishing setup, a spinning setup is more comfortable to use and is usually easier to repair; it also requires less finesse to cast. Think of it as the “automatic transmission” version of a fishing rod and reel. If you’re starting from nothing, a spinning outfit offers the highest chance of success. If you’re a beginner, it’s much easier to pick up than either of the other options, and it’s far less likely to become tangled than a baitcasting setup.

Key features of a fishing rod

In my 20-plus years of fishing, I’ve come to learn that when you’re shopping for fishing rods—as for any tool—paying a little attention to a few key features can be telling before you even pick up one. The rod’s material, flexibility, sensitivity, and line-guide construction all make a difference in how well the rod will perform and last.

As mentioned previously, bait-hucking fishers will want something that’s more sensitive and flexible, while lure fishers will want something stiffer (known as “fast action” in fishing jargon). Most rods are made out of fiberglass, graphite, or a mixture of both. The more graphite in a rod, the lighter and stiffer it is, but such rods are also more brittle, so you wouldn’t want to hand one to a 3-year-old. Fiberglass is heavier but more flexible (“slow action”) and nearly impossible to break. For a beginner or an all-around angler, a combination of both materials offers the most versatile package: It gives you enough stiffness to adequately manipulate a lure, while maintaining enough sensitivity for detecting small bites.

The next most important specification you’ll want to consider is the material that makes up the guides—the loops that lead, or guide, the line from the reel to the tip (the skinny end) of the fishing rod. Lower-end fishing rods (and many higher-end ones, too) usually feature guides made of either thin stainless steel or aluminum oxide (ceramic) frames holding cheap ceramic O-ring inserts (rings designed to protect the insides of the guides and prevent line wear) that chip or corrode, and eventually fail.

Additionally, the more pieces that make up the guide, the more pieces with the potential to fall apart. A design with more pieces means more jointing and fastening, which usually requires glue. Since fishing rods are often exposed to sun, salt, sand, dirt, fish parts, and general wear and tear, glue is simply less than ideal (as is plastic); a single piece of relatively rustproof metal is incomparably sturdier.

More expensive (and usually sturdier) guides include inserts made of higher-quality materials such as silicon carbide (SiC) or titanium-framed silicon carbide (TiSiC), which are usually affixed to rods built for performance (longer casting and lighter weight). While these materials are not necessarily stronger than stainless steel or lined aluminum oxide, they are higher-performance materials, and a lot more expensive. You start seeing these only on rods in the $150 range, as opposed to the $40 to $50 range, so they’re beyond the budget of most casual anglers. Also, most anglers won’t even notice the difference—I find that I don’t care one way or the other, and I’ve been fishing my whole life.

The rest, including the grip material and the number of pieces the rod itself breaks down into, is up to you. I will suggest that, if you can accommodate it, a one-piece rod will almost always outperform a two- or three-piece rod. A one-piece rod offers better stiffness and more control—fewer pieces make for fewer problems with durability and performance, although portability suffers.

Key features of a fishing reel

With the rod settled, we looked into reels, which are a lot more complicated since they have so many moving parts. When you’re shopping for a reel, among the first things you need to consider is how much drag you’ll need to handle the type of fish you hope to catch. “Drag” on a spinning reel is provided by a stack of washers, which you can either tighten or loosen against the spool (the part of the reel that holds the line) to build friction to reel in a fish, relieve friction to allow for “play” in the line (so it doesn’t break), or let it swim away in order to let the hook fully set. 1

The amount of drag required varies by fishing method and the species targeted—but if you’re not sure, we recommend asking the locals, or going to a bait-and-tackle shop. John Bretza, Okuma’s director of product development, put it into perspective: “Even when we fish North Carolina bluefin [tuna] (which can weigh hundreds of pounds ), we use 18 to 22 pounds of drag for the strike and, most of the time, as our full-drag setting as well. That’s still a lot of drag for most...” In other words, you don’t need much drag to cover a wide variety of fish. For the average fisher, the 10- to 25-pound maximum drags on any of our picks will suffice. But to make sure you get what you need, look for the “maximum drag rating” on the spec sheet.

One of the most important features is durability. Cheaper reels come with cheaper drag systems made of felt or lower-quality carbon fiber, which disintegrates quickly. This construction, combined with little or no preventative sealing to keep saltwater and grit from entering the mechanical parts, means that most reels less than $50 just aren’t worth the money.

If you're willing to spend $100 or a bit more, you’ll get all the makings of a reel that’s built to last. That means a semisealed drag—for keeping out water, dirt, and corrosive salt spray—as well as an all-metal body. It will also be repairable should anything go wrong, whereas with cheaper gear, the cost of a repair can often exceed the worth of the reel.

That said, if you plan to do a lot of bait fishing from boats, buy a conventional open-faced reel with a more dependable dual drag system.

I tested all of the rods and reels from beaches, rocks, boats, and riverbanks. I fished with lures in rivers for trout and salmon, and I set 1- to 1½-pound live baits from my skiffs, catching ocean fish up to 20 pounds with each rod and reel. I also tested the gear on smaller bottom fish, including summer flounder, sea bass, and porgies (or scup), as well as red drum and spotted seatrout in Charleston, South Carolina. I spent several days fishing freshwater rivers for trout and smaller salmon, and a couple of days fishing private ponds and lakes for largemouth bass. I beat up these rods and reels, from the mouth of the Hudson River in New York to the Cook Strait of New Zealand.

If you’re planning to get only one rod and you don’t want to spend a fortune, it should be a 6½- to 7-foot Ugly Stik GX2 , available in ultra-light, medium, medium-heavy, and heavy versions. It should be a single-piece model, if you can accommodate it. The size and line rating depend on the species you’re targeting and the type of water you’re fishing (ultra-light, UL, for panfish and small trout; medium, M, for fish weighing 3 to 10 pounds; medium-heavy, MH, for fish in the 10- to 25-pound range; and heavy, H, beyond that). The GX2 is the latest update to a classic line of rods renowned for their versatility and durability for nearly four decades.

The Ugly Stik GX2 was introduced in 2013 as the first major redesign of the Ugly Stik series since its debut in 1976. Compared with the original, it includes more graphite and less fiberglass, giving the rod more of a backbone for working lures and handling heavier fish, while still keeping the soft fiberglass tip that makes it sensitive enough for detecting subtler strikes and smaller catches.

Based on the GX2’s build and the original’s history of durability, the GX2 could very well be the last rod you’ll need to buy. They are seriously tough rods—a fact supported by their industry-leading seven-year warranty (compared with the typical one-year coverage offered on Penn and Shimano rods). I haven’t found another $50 fishing rod I would trust this much. In fact, if it costs less than $100 and it’s not an Ugly Stik, I’d just as soon use a hand line.

What makes the Ugly Stik GX2 so much more durable and versatile than other rods is that it uses both graphite and fiberglass to provide sensitivity and strength without sacrificing too much of either. It features a primarily graphite shaft for stiffness, along with a soft, clear, and flexible fiberglass tip.

That flexible tip means it won’t be ideal for manipulating lures, but we think the added versatility is more valuable to most fishers—especially beginners. While the GX2 isn’t better than a specialist rod in either application, it is a capable performer in both—which can’t be said of the Ugly Stik Tiger or the Penn Squadron.

In addition to having a durable shaft, the GX2 comes fitted with one-piece stainless steel line guides, which can literally be smashed with a rock and still maintain serviceability. During testing, I accidentally planted my foot directly on the guide of a rod that I’d left in the bottom of my boat—as one does—but it was unscathed. Cheap, flimsy aluminum-oxide guides are the industry standard at this price, so it’s nice to see Pure Fishing, the maker of the Ugly Stik, take durability seriously. This design also represents an upgrade from the old Ugly Stik, which had two-piece pop-out guides that were the only weak spot in an otherwise bulletproof rod.

Just in case anything does go wrong, all you need to submit to take advantage of the Ugly Stik’s class-leading seven-year warranty is photographic evidence of the damage, your receipt, and $10 to cover shipping. That’s far better than the one-year warranty coverage from Shimano, Penn, and Shakespeare. (St. Croix offers a five-year warranty for its Triumph rod, which we tested as a possible upgrade pick.)

One quick shopping note: Make sure you’re buying the spinning rod, not the casting version of the same rod from the same manufacturer. They’re easy to confuse, and our chosen reel won’t fit the casting version.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The downsides of the Ugly Stik GX2 are few but worth noting. First, it’s heavier than more high-performance graphite rods (which usually run about 5 ounces for a medium-heavy 6-foot-6 or 7-foot rod), and some people find that tiring. But if you’ve never held a high-end spinning rod before, you won’t notice the difference.

Another problem with the Ugly Stik GX2 is that the guides are not always perfectly placed. This is something you’re likely to find in any mass-produced base-level spinning-rod model; it’s not something children will notice. Guide placement becomes more essential when you’re fighting trophy-sized fish, which is not something the average angler will put their gear through. If you do happen to be fishing big game, you’ll likely have to step up in price range, or find a good deal at a garage sale.

The Daiwa BG series is our reel pick because these reels are built tougher than any similarly priced competition. Daiwa’s original BG series has been a crowd favorite since its introduction in the 1980s but has fallen short as an all-around choice only because the roller on the bail (which guides the line from the reel to the guides on the fishing rod) was not built to handle braided line. That changed a few years back—in fact, our teardown revealed that it has more in common with $200-plus reels than with others in its price category. (Consider sizes 1500 to 2000 for small freshwater and inshore saltwater species, 3000 to 5000 for medium freshwater and saltwater species, 5000 to 8000 for surf fishing, and 8000 to 10000 for larger fish, including some pelagic fish like mahi mahi and small tuna.)

Mechanically, the Daiwa BG reels stand head and shoulders above competitors within the same price range for a handful of reasons.

The ball bearings in the BG, for one thing, are the very same Minebea bearings that are loaded into Shimano’s Stella SW series of reels, which typically run for $700 to $1,200. The anti-reverse clutch (which keeps the reel from spinning backward) consists of individual metal springs, as opposed to the cheap plastic clips usually featured in $120 reels.

The drag or “thrust” disc has a rubber seal mounted to it, and according to expert spinning-reel reviewer Alan Hawk, it’s constructed of the same polymer that makes up the thrust discs of the Penn Slammer III (which usually costs about $300).

And finally, one small but brilliant finishing touch: The spool has a small hole drilled in it to prevent rust and allow trapped water to escape. This detail is further testament to the kind of thought that Daiwa put into the research and design of this humble but trusty little $100 reel.

Daiwa no longer states on its website that the BG has a machined aluminum gear, but the company avoids mentioning what material the gear is made of. As Alan Hawk discovered, it’s cast zinc. Nevertheless, although machined aluminum makes for a higher-quality, more durable gear, cast zinc still gets the job done and is the industry standard in reels under $300.

Shimano’s Saguaro series is every bit as versatile as the Ugly Stik GX2, but the guides are nowhere near as durable as Ugly Stik’s Ugly Tuff guides. Although I found the Saguaro rod itself to be more clunky and cumbersome overall—especially when casting lightweight artificial lures—that’s also what made me recognize and appreciate it as a dependable workhorse.

Compared with the similarly priced Ugly Stik models, the Shimano Saguaro is a stiffer graphite composite. While this design can be advantageous for casting plugs, it offers less “play” or give, which can hinder other applications like setting the hook while bottom fishing with bait and a heavy sinker, where some flex is advantageous.

Apart from the Saguaro’s less durable guides, the primarily graphite rod is more brittle, and less likely to survive a spill or a misplaced foot.

If you plan to fish with care (and not with children), the Saguaro can make an excellent rod for medium-weight jigging and topwater fishing, but it is less than ideal for lightweight artificial lures or bait fishing, and nowhere near as sturdy as an Ugly Stik.

If you know you want something stiffer for doing more lure fishing, the Ugly Stik Elite series is a good bet. These rods are available in the same wide range of sizes as the GX2 (for the most all-around versatility, we’d still recommend a medium to medium-heavy rod in the 6-foot-6 or 7-foot range), but they have a cork grip instead of an EVA foam grip and contain 35% more graphite, which makes them a bit stiffer and lighter overall. The added stiffness makes the Elite ideal for manipulating lures and giving them “action” (a fishing term for making lures dance or hobble like wounded prey).

The Elite is usually only about $10 more than the GX2 at any given length, which isn’t a lot of money, so you might be wondering why it isn’t our top pick. First off, as a stiffer rod, the Elite isn’t as well-suited to bait fishing for smaller catches. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing if that’s what you know you want, but it’s worth noting if you’re a first-timer trying to start small. Second, while the GX2 is the direct successor to the classic Ugly Stik, which had four decades of acclaim behind it, the Elite series is a newer line. While that extra 35% of graphite sounds appealing on paper, it’s still too early to tell whether that might decrease the long-term durability. For most anglers, the GX2 is the better bet.

Regardless of what rod or reel you get, salt is the enemy—even with gear specifically designed for use in the ocean. At the end of the day, be sure to give everything a solid rinse with freshwater and loosen the drags (to relieve straining pressure), whether your rig costs $20 or $2,000. If you take this step, our recommended Ugly Stik GX2 and Daiwa BG combo will serve you well for years to come.

When rinsing a reel, first tighten the drag, sealing it so that water doesn’t work into the washers. Lay the reel out horizontally so that any water that gets in has an easy path out, and don’t blast a reel with water to avoid blasting out the grease; just make sure it receives a thorough flow. If you want to be particularly diligent when cleaning your fishing gear (it will pay off in the long run), you can soak a cloth in freshwater (even with a little soap—boat soap works) and wipe everything down. Once finished, loosen the drag; if you leave reel drags tight, they tend to get stuck that way and lose their precision.

Additionally, keeping your reel packed with grease will reduce corrosion and improve longevity. You can find reel grease in almost any outdoor-sporting store, but if you’re not confident in taking your reel apart to apply grease, having it done in-store would be worthwhile.

Although a good rod and reel are crucial for the beginning angler, managing the necessary tackle (hooks, lines, sinkers, floats, and so forth) for your fishing expedition can also make or break your experience. The amount of tackle carried to the boat, watering hole, or river will vary depending on what kind of fishing you’re doing. But to keep things flexible and give yourself room to grow and try out different environments, we think investing in a simple yet multipurpose tackle bag is a good place to start. In comparison with the tackle boxes of old—whose fold-out compartments resembled hardware storage more than outdoors equipment—a well-constructed tackle bag with individual compartments, carabiner loops, and a supportive shoulder strap will lessen the load of hiking to remote spots or bringing necessities with you while wading into a river.

We spoke with senior editor and lifetime angler Grant Clauser about his preferences for tackle storage. And though he agreed that there is likely no single bag that will suit anything from fly-fishing to deep-water trowling, he had a few suggestions for what to look for. His tackle splits its time between a classic (and unfortunately discontinued) L.L.Bean tackle bag (which straps easily to the front of his kayak) and a similarly vintage side-sling number from Piscifun. The numerous loops and side compartments in the sling bag make it easy to keep essentials like pliers and multi-tools within reach; it also has a convenient water-bottle holder. Piscifun has now released an updated model of this bag . It costs around $30 and features supportive, padded shoulder and waist straps, as well as compartments to sort bait from gear. Wirecutter senior staff writer Jackie Reeve is testing this bag and reports that, after she’d done some fiddling with the adjustment straps, it both feels comfortable to wear and stays in place, even while she’s in motion. We’ll update this guide with her field notes from the streams of Washington State this summer.

As our former runner-up pick, the Penn Battle II reel offers build quality and durability comparable to those of models costing $150 or more. It’s compact enough to handle small fish gracefully, but it has enough drag to land saltwater fish, as well. (The Battle II has been replaced by the Battle III, which we have not yet tested.)

I brought my cheapo Shimano FXS rod on several trips to test beside the others. Though I’ve owned and used these rods for nearly two decades, I won’t recommend them. They’re functional, and I’ve managed to land fairly large fish on them, but they’re brittle and unreliable. If you’re paying $13 to $35, you shouldn’t really expect much, but if you need to have a fishing rod and want to spend less than $20, the FXS will do the trick for smaller fish—just take it for what it’s worth and don’t expect it or its guides to last.

We also considered several high-end models to determine if paying a lot more would get you a much better product. I was a big fan of St. Croix’s Triumph spinning rod as an all-around inshore stick—it’s featherlight, well-balanced, and a pleasure to cast all day long. I found that the tip was just sensitive enough to pass for a bait-fishing rod (though I’d still primarily designate it as a lightweight artificial/jigging rod). I’ve left it soaked in salt and sand, and even in a bit of marsh mud for two weeks, and I’ve seen no rust stains or any other signs of degradation.

The only issue I have with the Triumph (as with almost all other rods that aren’t Ugly Stiks) concerns the guides. While generally sturdy, they still don’t come anywhere close to Ugly Stik’s Ugly Tuff guides.

We also tried the Penn Battalion and the Shimano Teramar SE , which are both great rods. (The Battalion has since been replaced by the Battalion II; we have not tested it.) I found the Battalion to be somewhat lightweight for its action and recommended line weight, which you could easily solve by ordering the next weight up (for example, if you want a “medium action” rod, order the Battalion in “medium heavy”). I’m also a fan of the Teramar, which is extremely well-balanced—both in weight and in guide placement—but Shimano rods come with only a one-year warranty, and I prefer the high-end cork on the Triumph anyway. On the other hand, if you’re going to spend the majority of your time bait fishing, consider the Teramar, which offers a little more play and would be a delightful tool when you’re fishing cut bait for striped bass from a boat in Long Island Sound.

Shimano’s Spheros SW is among the smoothest spinning reels I’ve ever held, out of the box. It has the same three-part pinion/clutch seal (the most important seal in a spinning reel, protecting the very center of the reel, which is virtually irreparable) as Shimano’s $1,000-plus reels. The line lay is impeccably even, and despite being largely plastic, the Spheros is sturdy where it counts. If you’re looking to spend $200 on a reel, the Spheros is it, with the Quantum Cabo PTSE  (more on that model below) so close behind that I’d recommend trying both before making a decision based on your own personal preference. (Note that the Cabo PTSE sizes 60 and up are superior to the 40 and 50 sizes, which have inferior anti-reverse clutches.)

We also tested Shimano’s Saragosa , a supposed upgrade, but didn’t find anything particularly advantageous about it over the Spheros SW.

The Shimano Baitrunner performed well, but its lack of durability took it out of the running after we did our teardown test. After just a few weeks of use, it showed some early signs of corrosion. We expected more out of a $180 reel. Ultimately, I’ve had to repair the secondary (freespool) drags on the Baitrunner, which is another reason why I suggest buying a conventional setup if you’re going to fish bait.

Shimano introduced another $100-range line of spinning reels, called the Nasci . I’m thoroughly impressed, especially with the fact that Shimano includes a cold-forged drive gear (usually cast zinc in reels within this price range), though according to spinning-reel guru Alan Hawk, it’s made more cheaply than the higher-end drive gears. The major issues I immediately had with the Nasci were the slightly uneven line lay (line doesn’t seem to collect on the spool as neatly as on other reels) and the tiny crank handle, which is bolted on and cannot be changed. This design might not affect other fishers as much, but I find it to be a nuisance to have to grab something so small when you’re hurrying to set the hook.

The Quantum Cabo PTSE , which I picked up only after reading a rave review by Alan Hawk, was delightful to cast. It’s featherlight, and I paired it with two higher-end rods, which made for the lightest spinning-rod-and-reel combos I’d ever held; as a result, I didn’t grow tired casting into a stiff breeze from a rivermouth jetty for several hours. The 100 and 120 sizes are absolute brutes. My friend Captain Colin Kelly spent the better part of the fall bluefin tuna run off Cape Cod relying on these modestly priced reels, which compete with the $500 to $700 reels that have generally been the only options for catching fish over 200 pounds on spinning gear. Toward the end of the season, a 400-pound bruiser burned up the clicker on the spool, which isn’t a huge deal but worth mentioning. That said, most 100- or 120-size reels are probably outmatched by 400-pound fish.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Imagine holding a spool of line, rope, or wire between your hands. Taking the tag end of the line (or rope or wire), a friend runs away from you as fast as possible. If you apply little to no pressure to the spool, your friend can run freely, without friction. In order to stop your friend, you’ll have to apply tension. How? By holding it tighter, of course. If your friend weighs, say, 150 pounds and continues to run, applying that pressure will put a great deal of strain on your hands—if you try to bring your friend to a stop with your bare hands, the spool will tear your fingers to shreds. If you were to buy a cheap pair of synthetic wool gloves, you could perhaps apply more pressure and slow your friend down, slightly. If you were to wear Kevlar gloves, you could squeeze the spool as hard as you possibly could, and although you may not stop your friend, you’d slow their pace considerably, and your hands would remain (mostly) unharmed. Think of your hands as the integral part of the reel, and the gloves as the “drag” or the buffer between the gear, the integral function of the reel, and the spool, the part that holds the line. On a fishing reel, the drag is a stack of circular washers that can be made of anything from felt to cork to carbon fiber to metal (in higher-end gear). Felt and cork, as you tighten the drag (or apply more resistance), will heat up and disintegrate under continuous strain, whereas carbon fiber and metal will fare far better.

Meet your guide

Owen James Burke

Further reading

The Best Reel Mower for Your (Small) Lawn

by Ed Grabianowski and Doug Mahoney

After 30 hours researching and testing reel mowers, we think the  Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is the best pick for manual lawncare.

The Best Garden Hose and Hose Reel

by Doug Mahoney and Thom Dunn

There truly is a better garden hose for you. We found a great reel, too.

The Best Fish Tank, Heater, Light, and Accessories

by Sabrina Imbler

The Marina 20G LED Aquarium Kit is the best aquarium kit to get started with freshwater fish—but we have recommendations for assembling your own tank, too.

Don’t Let the Name Fool You. This Flexible Fish Spatula Can Do It All.

by Katie Okamoto

It’s a versatile spatula for nearly any kind of food you need to flip or move with precision—whether that’s brittle shortbread or a trembling French omelet.

• Penn Fishing

Spinning Reels

• Low Profile Baitcasting Reels
• Lever Drag Conventional
• Star Drag Conventional
• Van Staal Spinning Reels
• Van Staal Parts
• Van Staal Spare Spools
• Kits & Bundles
• St Croix Rods
• Century Rods

Spinning Rods

• Casting Rods

Travel Rods

• Rod Components and Repair
• Super Strike Lures
• Drifter Tackle
• Fish Snax Lures
• Gibbs Lures
• Rebel Lures
• Sebile Fishing Lures
• Left Hook Lures
• Plastic Bottle Darters
• Plastic Bottle Plugs
• Plastic Darters
• Plastic Glide Baits
• Plastic Needlefish
• Plastic Pencil Poppers
• Plastic Poppers
• Plastic Swimmers
• Plastic Topwaters
• Paddle Tails
• Bucktail Jigs
• Metals, Tins, and Epoxies
• Blackfish Jigs
• Vertical Jigs
• Trailers and Pork Rinds
• Wood Bottle Darters
• Wood Needlefish
• Wood Darters
• Wood Pencil Poppers
• Wood Metal Lips
• Casting Eggs
• Offshore Lures
• Kits and Bundles
• Fluorocarbon Leader Material
• Mono Leader Material
• Braided Fishing Line
• Wire Leaders
• Rigging Tools
• Treble Hooks
• Siwash Fishing Hooks
• Dressed Fishing Hooks
• Circle Hooks
• Inline Circle Hooks
• Offset Circle Hooks
• Inline Fishing Hooks
• Octopus Hooks
• Tuna and Big Game Hooks
• Assist Hooks

Split Rings

Quick Clips

Snaps and Swivels

• Wading and Surf Belts
• Surf Bag Accessories
• Soft Tackle Bags
• Hard Tackle Boxes
• Dry Bags and Boxes
• Travel Rod Tubes and Luggage
• Reel Covers and Rod Racks
• Fishing Pliers
• Split Ring Pliers
• Fish Grippers
• Finger Guards
• Knives and Scissors
• Hook Sharpeners
• Lanyards and Clips
• Headlamps and Lights

SWE Gift Card

• Books, Art, Stickers, etc
• Wading Boots
• Wading Sandals
• Interchangeable Wading Shoe Soles
• Wading Spikes and Studs
• Stocking Foot Waders
• Sun Protective Clothing
• Sweatshirts and Jackets

Fishing Gloves

• SWE Logo Hats
• SWE T-Shirts
• SWE Hooded Sweatshirts
• Flips and Sandals
• Van Staal Fly Reels
• Seigler Fly Reels
• Thomas & Thomas
• Floating Fly Lines
• Intermediate Fly Lines
• Sinking Fly Lines
• Albie and Bonito Flies
• Striper Flies
• Bonefish Flies
• Rhody Classic Flies
• Anchovy Patterns
• Bunker Patterns
• Sandeel Patterns
• Silverside Patterns
• Stripping Baskets
• Fly Leaders
• Tippet Material
• Flash Materials
• Natural Materials
• Hair and Fur
• Feathers and Hackle
• Synthetic Materials
• Fly Tying Hooks
• Fly Tying Thread
• Eyes and Cones
• Fly Tying Vises
• Fly Tying Scissors
• Cements and Coatings
• UV Glue and Lights
• On Sale Fishing Reels
• On Sale Rods
• On Sale Lures
• Sale and Clearance Fly Fishing Gear
• Closeout Fishing Apparel
• Closeout Fishing Accessories
• Closeout Terminal Tackle
• All Sale Items
• Shop All Brands
• Danco Pliers
• ODM Fishing
• Owner Hooks
• Shimano Fishing
• Simms Fishing
• Temple Fork Outfitters

Van Staal Fishing

• Surfcasting
• Saltwater Fly Fishing
• Inshore Fishing
• Gear Reviews
• Destination and Travel
• Fly Fishing for False Albacore
• Talking Tog with Captain BJ Silvia
• Kenney Abrames - An Artist Who Fishes
• A Season in the Surf with Jerry Audet
• Our Fishing Lives Podcast - The Saltwater Edge
• Destinations: The East End with Capt Craig Cantelmo
• Albies and Stripers - Seven Stripes Fishing Podcast
• The Salty Side of Tom Rosenbauer
• SWE Seasons on the Fly - Fall Run
• How To Choose A Van Staal Reel
• How To Select A Surf Fishing Rod For Striped Bass
• How To Choose An Albie Outfit
• Top Five Lures for False Albacore
• How to Choose a Saltwater Fly Line
• Modifying the Daiwa SP Minnow
• Tackle and Tactics: Jigging for Tog
• Tackle and Tactics: Atlantic Bonito
• Tackle and Tactics: Black Sea Bass
• Tackle and Tactics: Chub Mackerel
• Tackle and Tactics: Rigging Soft Plastics for Stripers
• Tackle and Tactics: Topwater
• Mullet - The Mystery Baitfish of Fall

Reel Brands

• Daiwa Reels
• Shimano Reels
• Seigler Reels

Conventional Reels

Reel Accessories

• Reel Maintenance
• Reel Covers

Struggling to choose what size Van Staal? Here's a complete breakdown of the VSX2 line up from VS50BX2 all the way to VS300X2

Shimano Stella SW C Spinning Reels

Need line? Message us immediately after purchase and we can get your reel spooled up before it heads out the door.

Top Rod Brands

• Bull Bay Rods
• Centaur Rods
• Lamiglas Rods
• Tsunami Fishing Rods
• Light Tackle/Inshore Spinning
• Popping Rods
• Spinning Travel Rods
• Casting Travel Rods

Conventional Rods

• Jigging Rods
• Light Jigging Rods
• Slow Pitch Jigging Rods

Rod Accessories

• Rod Storage and Racks

Temple Fork Rods are some of our favorites thanks to tapers and actions chosen by fishermen, quality components, and value pricing.

Read Dave Anderson's piece on How To Choose a Surf Rod . Learn about action, length, and more.

Have questions on a new fishing rod? Chat with us live during business hours.

Albie & Bonito Lures

Berkley Gulp!

Offshore Lures and Bars

Plastic Lures

Wooden Lures

Sabiki Rigs

Soft Plastic Lures

Super Strike Zig Zag Darters

A classic for cows.

Cotton Cordell Red Fin Swimmers

Our blog is chock full of Tackle and Tactics ideas - if you have questions it's a great spot to learn new ways to target stripers, albies, blackfish, sea bass and more

Line and Leader

• Wind-On Leaders

Fishing Hooks

VMC 9626PS 4X Treble Hooks

Rasco Split Rings

Tactical Anglers Power Clips

Shop On Sale Terminal Tackle

Bags and Storage

Fishing Tools

Gifts for Fishermen

See Clearly. Catch More Fish.

The most minor componets can make big differences on the water.

Tackle and Tactics

• Jigging for Tog
• Atlantic Bonito
• Imitating Fall Run Surf Baits for Stripers
• Tackle and Tactics: Rigging Soft Plastics for Striped Bass

Gear Advice

SWE Podcasts

• The Consummate Captain - Captain Rene Letourneau
• The East End with Captain Craig Cantelmo
• Fly Fishing for False Albacore – Orvis Podcast

Super Strike Zig-Zag: The Essential Darter - by Gerry Audet

See all of our upcoming events

Have an idea for a blog post, video, or podcast? Shoot us a message and we'll see what we can do.

Apparel Brands

• Costa Del Mar
• Korkers Footwear

SWE Logo Gear

• Sandals and Flips

Waders & Wading Accessories

• Flats Wading Boots
• Wading Accessories

Foul Weather Gear

Lightweight ripstop fabric with two-way stretch and built in stain resistance makes these shorts a great option for the everyday angler.

No slip grip on the boat deck, while keeping your feet dry, cool, and comfortable. Right angle foot bed to promote good alignment and posture.

Fish hard, stay comfortable.

Fly Rods and Reels

• Nautilus Fly Reels
• Van Staal VF Fly Reels

Saltwater Fly Lines

• Tropical Fly Lines

Fly Tying Tools

Fly Fishing Accessories

• Fly Fishing Packs
• Albie & Bonito Flies
• Mullet Flies

Hardy Fortuna Regent Fly Reel

Hardy Marksman Z Fly Rod

Shop our On Sale Fly Gear

• On Sale Fly Fishing Gear

Daiwa Saltist Star Drag Reel

Scientific Anglers Sonar Titan Full Intermediate Fly Line

BKK Raptor-Z Treble Hooks

Owner Stinger ST-66 4X Strong Treble Hooks

Want to stay up to date for new sale items and promotions? Sign up for alerts via SMS and/or email here.

This section doesn’t currently include any content. Add content to this section using the sidebar.

Add description and links to your promotion

Your headline

Image caption appears here

Your product's name

Add your deal, information or promotional text

We carry travel surf and spin rods for a variety of fishing situations.

Some crazy fishing adventures need portability that a one or two-piece rod can't provide, and that's where travel rods step in.

Whether saltwater or freshwater, modern multi-piece travel rods vastly out perform rods from not that long ago. Advanced ferrule technology keeps tapers and action smooth as well as light and strong.

• Sports & Outdoors
• Hunting & Fishing
• Rod & Reel Combos

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Pen Fishing Rod Kit, 39 Inch Mini Fishing Pole Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod with Spinning Reel Fishing Rod Reel Combo for Travel Saltwater Freshwater Sea

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• Fishing Reel And Rod Combination :This fishing reel and fishing rod combination is not easy to deform, corrosion-resistant, impact-resistant, and durable.
• Lightweight and Durable: Lightweight carbon fiber can be bent to a certain height. It can also withstand high temperatures, corrosion and friction.The top of the pole is wrapped and reinforced. The loop is smooth and non-porous, and has a built-in (magnetic) loop to protect your fishing lin
• Easy to Carry: Mini telescopic fishing rod, easy to carry.The handle is made of non-slip log color, which increases the beauty of the fishing rod.
• Fitment: If you want to fish outdoors for a long time in cold weather, the stainless steel spinner is very durable.Suitable for sea, ocean, river, stream and lake fishing in winter.
• Experly Designed : Dependable and designed to last, the fishing reel and fishing rod combos was expertly designed. A great fishing set-up, the easy-casting spincast reel is custom-matched to a durable 2-piece rod to help you to reel in the big ones all day long.

Buy it with

Top rated similar items

Product Description

features: 1. Lightweight carbon fiber can be bent to a certain height. It can also withstand high temperatures, corrosion and friction. NOTE: Keep this lever away from the power source to prevent any accidents. 2. The top of the pole is wrapped and reinforced. The loop is smooth and non-porous, and has a built-in (magnetic) loop to protect your fishing line. Description: Name: Fishing Pole

Weight: Approx. 198g The length of the fishing rod is about 100CM, and the shrinkage length is about 20CM; The fishing reel is ABS high-strength plastic; The package is small in size, about 26CM in length; Packing list: 1 x Fishing Pole Note: Different displays may cause the color of the item in the picture a little different from the real thing. Manual measuring,please allow 1~3mm error,thank you.

Product information

Technical details, additional information, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices