A powerful fishing rod when paired with a worthy spinning reel will make your next fishing trip unforgettable. Yes, that’s right.
But how to know which reel works best with which rod? Worry not here we are to present before you the best spinning rod and reel combos of 2023.
We have tested and used each of these combos as a part of our reviewing process.
Are you ready to explore it right now? Great!
As a beginner, you might get confused about which rod to pair with a spinning reel. We know you are thinking the same.
Yeah! That’s when these recommended rod and reel combos come to the rescue, as you have to choose the perfect reel size simply, and a rod is already paired with it.
However, if you don’t know about spinning reel sizes, check them out. Now, let’s get started with the best spinning reel rod combos of 2022.

Our Top Picks:
Best Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
Design | Reviews | Retailer |
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Best Pick ![]() | Check Price | |
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Staff Pick ![]() | Check Price | |
Budget Pick ![]() | Check Price | |
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1. KastKing Centron Spinning Reel Rod Combo
Best Pick
Brand | KastKing |
Reel size | 2000 |
Number of ball bearings | 9+1 |
Gear ratio | 5.2:1 |
Number of pieces | 2 |
Package weight | 1.18 kg |
Why We Love It
- The spinning rod is made of graphite, which provides an amazingly lightweight experience while reeling
- Also, the powerful KastKing Centron of size 2000 is included in this combo for bass and trout fishing
- Lastly, the spinning rods have stainless steel guides, perfect for any fishing line.
This combo by KastKing is the best rod and reel combo you can ever get under $100. The reel and rod have less weight, providing comfort to the angler even if they are using it all day.
Moreover, the spinning rods are made out of IM6 graphite so it’s durable enough to not break between fishing trips for years.
Also, it’s a pack of 2 rods and 1 spinning reel so it’s a great deal as per our opinion.
The KastKing centron is a great spinning reel which has been featured in many of our review articles earlier for its versatility.
The overall performance of the reel is super smooth and it won’t be a problem even if you use it in saltwater as it has corrosion resistant coatings
Pros
- Price under $100
- Smooth performance reel
- Can be used in saltwater
- Best for bass fishing
Cons
- Rod’s quality is not great
- Plastic reel handle
Opinion
As per our opinion, it’s a worthy reel as you don’t have to pay much for this combo and you will be getting 2 fishing rods and a centron reel which is capable of fighting medium sized fishes easily. However, it’s not that durable so avoid using it while offshore fishing.
Also, the rod length of 6 feet is perfect for casting medium distances and during inshore fishing. Therefore, you can definitely think of getting this combo as it is one of the best rod reel combos.
2. KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Brand | KastKing |
Reel size | 2000 |
Number of ball bearings | 5+1 |
Gear ratio | 5.2:1 |
Number of pieces | 2 |
Package weight | 1.13 kg |
Why We Love It
- The spinning reel has a carbon body with some metal parts such as aluminium spool and powerful gears which make it strong yet lightweight
- Also, the two blanks provided are made out of strong and lightweight graphite with a comfortable grip
- Moreover, the superpolymer golf style handle will provide you the maximum grip during fighting a strong fish in a lake
It’s the second best spinning reel combo by KastKing which is available in many rod lengths and reel sizes. However, this spinning reel is worth using in freshwater as its rod length is only 5.6 and won’t be perfect for saltwater.
Besides that it has a powerful and lightweight spinning reel attached to it which has a size of 2000 and comes with a powerful drag, more than enough for a freshwater rod and reel combo.
Also, in this combo you will be provided with two graphite blanks that are much lighter in weight and cheap.
Moreover, the stainless steel ball bearings with double shields give a frictionless reeling experience all day long. As said earlier, it’s the best freshwater fishing rod and reel combo.
Pros
- Comfortable grip of rod
- Covers great casting distance
- Smooth retrieve
- Powerful drag force
Cons
- Not for saltwater
- Handle is not ambidextrous
Opinion
If you are only searching for a freshwater reel, this combo pack of two blanks and a 2000 size spinning reel will be the best deal for you.
Moreover, it’s not overpriced and costs below $70. While testing also both of them worked as if they were a single piece.
It works best for bass and trouts in freshwater. On the contrary, make sure you never use it in saltwater as it may corrode easily.
3. Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo
Staff Pick
Brand | Daiwa |
Reel size | 4000 |
Number of ball bearings | 6+1 |
Gear ratio | 6.2:1 |
Rod length | 7, 9, 10 |
Number of pieces | 2 |
Package weight | 0.64 kg |
Why We Love It
- One of the best choice of anglers when it comes to offshore saltwater fishing
- Available in sizes more than 7 feet which makes it eligible for fighting big fishes with ease
- Moreover, the powerful spinning reel paired with it has a great drag force and an incomparable smoothness
The Daiwa D Wave is one of a kind reel which stands out for its long casting distances even though its light in weight.
This medium action spinning rod is paired with a powerful and lightweight spinning reel of size 4000 which is enough for medium-sized fishes.
Moreover, it’s the best saltwater spinning reel combo as both work perfectly together and will help you get the best results.
Also, the rods have aluminum-made guides that are easily compatible with any fishing line. Similarly, you don’t have to worry about the guides cutting those lines because of sharpness.
The fishing rod is made of fiberglass so it’s extremely lightweight. However, when it comes to the grip, the comfortable EVA grip will ensure the rod stays in your hands firmly even if they are sweaty.
Pros
- Feels lightweight
- Will cast long distances
- Perfect for saltwater fishing
- Great choice for trouts
Cons
- Not good for lakes
- Plastic reel base
Opinion
It’s a good reel if you are planning for inshore fishing or even offshore fishing. With a long rod length and a good spinning reel size will make a good companion.
Moreover, it can handle up to 12-25 lbs line weight. However, do not burden the spinning reel otherwise it may break because the spinning reel’s foot is fragile.
Also, it’s not for you if you don’t want to cast longer distances. As said earlier it’s a saltwater spinning rod and reel combo so don’t worry about corrosion at all.
4. Penn Fierce III Combo
Budget Pick
Brand | Penn |
Reel size | 4000 |
Number of ball bearings | 4+1 |
Gear ratio | 6.2:1 |
Rod length | 7.0 |
Number of pieces | 1 |
Package weight | 0.52 kg |
Why We Love It
- A medium powered best spinning reel rod combo which is perfect for onshore fishingÂ
- The Fierce II paired with the graphite rod has a full metal body made to last longÂ
- Also, the balanced gears made of high-quality metal make sure you get a smooth and fast retrieve
No one can deny that PENN rules the spinning reel market but how about the best PENN spinning reel paired with the best and lightest graphite rod? Seems good right, that’s what you will get if you buy this best lake fishing rod and reel.
With smooth and efficient gears and a ratio of 6.2:1 the reel will offer an incredibly smooth and fastest retrieve. Furthermore, it’s good to have such a fast retrieve if you are targeting trout.
Moreover, the fishing blank is made of graphite, which offers a great durability and strength even while being light in weight.
Also, the small stainless steel guides will never scratch your fishing lines. Also, this combo is compatible with any fishing line, be it mono or braided.
Pros
- High capacity spool
- Awesome drag
- Best for inshore fishing
- lightweight
Cons
- Line may tangle
- Unbalanced bail
Opinion
If you love onshore fishing, try using this best spinning reel combo by PENN which includes a long-lasting and strong fishing rod made of graphite and the PENN Fierce III, which provides maximum comfort to the anglers during casting and has a fast retrieve.
Other than that, the build quality is outstanding and will last longer. However, we encountered the problem of lines getting tangled midcast and we can’t do anything about it. Therefore, if you are a professional and sure that you can tackle this problem, it’s a superb choice.
5. Penn Spinfisher VI Saltwater Combo

Brand | Penn |
Reel size | 2500 |
Number of ball bearings | 5+1 |
Gear ratio | 5.2:1 |
Rod length | 7.0 |
Number of pieces | 1 |
Package weight | 0.52 kg |
Why We Love It
- Perfect for saltwater fishing as the reel line capacity is more than enough of onshore fishing trip
- The fishing rods are available up to 10 feet so get a combo according to your preference.
- Moreover, the super-smooth spinning reel can cast long distances easily and also has an overall smooth performance
This PENN spinfisher VI combo is the last yet best saltwater spinning reel and rod combo in our list. These combos are available in different pairs starting from medium-light to heavy, making your choosing process easier if you are a fan of PENN and would like to get a fishing rod by them.
Moreover, the spinfisher VI features carbon drag washers, providing an amazing and smooth drag.
Also, the sealed spool and water-resistant coatings on the reel makes it eligible to be used in saltwater carefree. However, do clean it afterward.
The fishing rod is also to be talked about for its strong and long length, but some of you may find it heavier than compared to the earlier options.
Pros
- Smooth performance
- Stainless steel guides
- Fully sealed body of reel
- Not expensive
Cons
- Not for small fishes
- Fragile reel foot
Opinion
It’s the last and best spinning rod and reel combo for saltwater fishing. As said earlier, it will provide a super-smooth performance and will cast long distances because the reel is paired with a 7 feet fishing rod.
Moreover, you don’t have to worry about corrosion caused because of salt water, the fully sealed drag and spool will make sure none of the water or any particle enters inside your spinning reel.
However, consider a good seller as many of these sellers do not pack them properly, leading to breakage.
Buying Guide: How to Choose
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best reel and rod for fishing?
We would recommend you buy the 2 piece KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for a great fishing experience. However, the size is small so you can do light fishing only with this best spinning reel combo.
Should I get a rod and reel combo?
Absolutely yes, the rod and reel combos are available at a lower price than buying a reel and rod separately. Moreover, if you don’t know the compatible rods and reels it is better to get a combo pack at our ease.
Does any reel fit any rod?
Actually, yes any spinning reel can fit any rod, but when it comes to compatibility not every reel is compatible with every rod. The compatibility depends on the size of the spinning reel, length of the rod and many more factors
How do you know what size reel to buy ?
The reel size depends on the weight of your targeted species. Moreover, along with reel size, the line capacity should be enough to handle the fish. Check out the spinning reel sizes where we have given detailed information about reel sizes.
Conclusion
Whenever going out for a fishing trip you should always be sure about your targets and the equipment you have because they make a lot of difference. Also, if you dont have the right equipment you should get the best ones.
However, if you don’t know which one suits the best we will guide you with such reviews and informative articles. The best spinning reel rod combos featured in this article are worth the price you will be paying.
Moreover, you can’t simply pair any reel with any rod as they wont be compatible. Here are the best two spinning reel combos we recommend