Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for 2023: Expert Picks Only
Grabbing a top-notch fishing rod and reel combo will definitely set you apart. But then, what should you look out for, to separate the quality pairings from the disappointments? We have done the legwork for you. Let’s have a look at the best surf fishing rod and reel combo in 2023.
On a side note, you can get some bass fishing tips to level up your fishing experience.
Top Rated Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
These are our recommendations for the best surf fishing rod and reel combo:
- Our Top Picks: The PENN Battle III Surf Fishing Combo and the Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo
- Best Budget Rod and Reel Combo: The KastKing Centron Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
- Beginner’s Choice: The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Best High-End Option: The Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel
1: Our Top Pick for the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
PENN Battle III Surf Fishing Combo
The PENN Battle III Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is a high-quality fishing tool that offers strength and durability.
The 3-piece, Graphite Composite rod is break-resistant yet lightweight, and the 8 one-piece PENN Dura-Guides provide a durable solution for the heat and tension of stressed lines.
The combo has a gear ratio of 6.2:1 and recovers at the rate of 37” | 94cm with every turn of the crank. The HT-100 FRONT DRAG has a max drag of 15lb | 6.8kg. The cork handle is made for Right/Left handed anglers, delivering strength and comfort.
The combo is available in different sizes and styles, and it is suitable for all skill levels. The pros of this combo are its superior construction, butter-smooth operation, and high-quality components. The cons are its high price and shipping fees.
Key features:
- 7′ fishing rod and reel spinning combo
- Graphite composite rod with 8 one-piece PENN Dura-Guides
- A gear ratio of 6.2:1 and recovers at the rate of 37” | 94cm with every turn of the crank
- HT-100 FRONT DRAG with a max drag of 15lb | 6.8kg
- Cork handle for Right/Left handed anglers
- Suitable for Bass and Trout fishing
Pros:
- Superior construction
- Smooth operation
- High-quality components
Cons:
- High price
- Shipping fees
Available at:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- West Marine
- Bass Pro Shops
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo
The Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo is a high-quality surf fishing rod and reel combo that is designed to withstand the harsh saltwater environment.
The reel features a black anodized machined aluminum housing, oversized Digigear, solid screw-in handle, air rotor, dynamic cut aluminum ABS spool, braided line-ready spool, waterproof drag system, and carbon ATD.
The rod is made of graphite and fibreglass, creating a powerful yet sensitive fishing rod that feels balanced in your hands. The combo is suitable for ultralight freshwater actions to heavy big game saltwater models.
Key features:
- Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing (“Hard Bodyz” Body & Side Cover)
- Over-sized Digigear (Digigear System)
- Solid Screw-In Handle, Air Rotor, Dynamic Cut Aluminum ABS Spool
- Braided Line Ready Spool, Waterproof Drag System, Carbon ATD
- Line Per Handle Turn: 28.3″
- 6BB+1RB, Gear Ratio: 5.6:1, Drag Max:4.4
- Suitable for ultralight freshwater actions to heavy big game saltwater models
Pros:
- Lightweight and strong aluminium body
- Smooth operation with Digigear technology
- Suitable for serious saltwater fishermen
- Available in different sizes
Cons:
- No cons found
Available at:
- Amazon
- Bait-WrX
- JJSPORTSFISHING.COM
- Hero Outdoors
- Charkbait
- West Marine
2: Best Budget Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
KastKing Centron Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
The KastKing Centron Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is a great value for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Features
- The KastKing Centron Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo are great for freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- The rod has a sensitive and lightweight Toray IM6 Graphite blank, perfect for detecting even the slightest bites.
- The rod has stainless steel guides and O-ring inserts that work well with both mono and braided lines.
- The rod is finished with contoured EVA handles and a fighting butt that provide all-day comfort and a sure grip while also providing a perfectly balanced rod.
- The combo includes a perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel with a 5.2:1 or 4.5:1 gear ratio for smooth and efficient retrieval.
- The reel has 9+1 Maxi-Dur ball bearings that provide a smooth and reliable operation.
- The reel has an anti-twist line roller that helps to prevent line tangles.
- The reel has a lightweight graphite frame and an aluminium spool that help to reduce weight and improve performance.
- The reel has a powerful triple disc felt drag system that provides smooth and consistent drag pressure.
- The rods come in lengths from 6’ to 8’ and are 2-piece designs for easy travel
Pros:
- Lightweight and sensitive Toray IM6 Graphite blanks
- Stainless steel guides with O-ring inserts
- Contoured EVA handles and fighting butt for all-day comfort
- Perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel
- 5.2:1 or 4.5:1 gear ratio, 9+1 Maxi-Dur ball bearings, anti-twist line roller, lightweight graphite frame, and aluminium spool
- Powerful triple disc felt drag system
- Comes in lengths from 6’ to 8’ for different types of fish
- 2 piece designs make travel easy
- Exceptional value
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a different brand or model of fishing rod and reel combo.
3: Best Beginner Rod and Reel Combo
The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
The two-piece rod is crafted with a combination of graphite and fibreglass, creating a powerful yet sensitive fishing rod that feels balanced in your hands.
The Ugly Stik Clear Tip design offers added strength and sensitivity to the smallest nibbles and strikes.
In addition, the spinning reel features a durable aluminium spool with an oversized reel handle knob, and one ball bearing plus a 1-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing to deliver smooth operation and near-instantaneous hook sets.
Key Features
- Durable and tough fishing rod and reel combo
- Ugly Tech construction with a combination of graphite and fibreglass
- Clear tip design delivers added responsiveness and strength
- Lightweight EVA grips provide comfort during lengthy fishing outings
- Durable aluminium spool with one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing for reliable hook sets
Pros
- Durable and sensitive
- Lightweight EVA grips
- Suitable for big water fishing
Cons
- High price
- Shipping fees
The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo are available at Amazon and Walmart.
4: Best High-End Rod and Reel Combo
Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel
The Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel is the Best High-End Rod and Reel Combo, made in Japan, boasting technology, design excellence, strength, and power.
Features
- Monocoque body for improved strength, water resistance, and larger diameter drive gear installation.
- Magsealed technology for low-friction seal, keeping water, dust, and grit from internal components.
- Magsealed ball bearing and line roller for protection against saltwater intrusion.
- ATD drag technology for better support, reduced spool twist, and more even pressure on drag washers.
- Long Cast ABS spool for 100% useable line with no “dead” line buried in a deep core.
- Aluminum Air Rotor for double rigidity compared to 15 Saltiga and 50% more durability than the original Z series Saltiga of 2002.
Pros
- The Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel has several pros, including:
- The latest generation of Saltiga Spinning Reels features Daiwa’s single-piece Monocoque Body, which increases strength and durability.
- The 2020 Saltiga Spinning Reels also feature a 12% larger G1 Duralumin drive gear, which provides increased power and torque.
- The 23 Saltiga Showcase is designed to exhibit full strength under pressure, with unmatched power and toughness.
- The 20 Saltiga has advanced features, including a redesigned drag knob and handles, to provide the most advanced spinning reel experience.
- According to the review below, the Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel provides excellent performance, with a smooth drag and a solid feel.
Cons
- High price point
What Factors Should You Consider When Buying A Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo?
When buying a surf fishing rod and reel combo, you should consider:
Rod Length
The length of the rod is an important factor to consider when choosing a surf fishing rod and reel combo. Generally, longer rods are better for surf fishing as they allow you to cast further and provide better leverage when reeling in larger fish. A rod length of 10-12 feet is ideal for most surf fishing situations, but it ultimately depends on your personal preference and the type of fishing you plan to do.
Reel Type
The type of reel you choose will depend on your level of experience and the type of fish you plan to catch. Spinning reels are the most popular choice for surf fishing as they are easy to use and versatile. Baitcasting reels are a good option for experienced anglers who want more control over their cast and retrieve. Choose a reel with a high line capacity to handle the long casts and strong fish that are common in surf fishing.
Material
The material of the rod and reel is another important factor to consider. Look for rods made from high-quality graphite or fiberglass as they offer the best combination of strength and flexibility. Reels made from aluminium or stainless steel are durable and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for saltwater fishing.
Price
The price of a surf fishing rod and reel combo can vary greatly depending on the quality and features. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality combo will pay off in the long run. Look for a combo that fits within your budget while still providing the features and durability you need for successful surf fishing.
In summary, when choosing a surf fishing rod and reel combo, consider the length of the rod, type of reel, material, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a combo that meets your needs and helps you catch more fish.
How to Maintain Your Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
To ensure your surf fishing rod and reel combo lasts for many seasons, it’s important to take good care of it. Here are a few tips on how to maintain your surf fishing gear:
Rinse with Fresh Water
After each use, rinse your surf fishing rod and reel combo with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or dirt that may have accumulated. This will help prevent corrosion and damage to your gear.
Check for Damage
Before each use, inspect your surf fishing rod and reel combo for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, chips, or other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it’s best to get it repaired or replaced before using it again.
Lubricate Moving Parts
To keep your surf fishing reel running smoothly, it’s important to lubricate the moving parts. Use high-quality reel oil or grease to lubricate the gears, bearings, and other moving parts. This will help prevent friction and wear on your gear.
Store Properly
When you’re not using your surf fishing rod and reel combo, store it properly to prevent damage. Keep it in a dry, cool place, and avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. You can also use a rod and reel cover to protect it from dust and debris.
Check Line and Leaders
Before each use, check your fishing line and leaders for any signs of wear or damage. Look for fraying, knots, or other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any problems, replace the line or leader before using your surf fishing gear.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can help ensure your surf fishing rod and reel combo lasts for many seasons of successful fishing.
Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo in a Nutshell
When choosing the best surf fishing rod and reel combo, consider the type of fish you’ll be targeting, the conditions you’ll be fishing in, and your level of experience. Here are our top picks in a nutshell.
- Our Top Picks: The PENN Battle III Surf Fishing Combo and the Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo
- Best Budget Rod and Reel Combo: The KastKing Centron Spinning Rod and Reel Combo
- Beginner’s Choice: The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
- Best High-End Option: The Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel
Frequently Asked Questions
What size rod and reel is best for surf fishing?
The best size rod and reel for surf fishing can vary depending on the species you are targeting and the conditions of the water. Generally, a 10-12 foot rod with medium or moderate action and a saltwater spinning reel in the 4500 to 6500 size range is a good choice for beginners. This combination will work well when targeting saltwater species like striped bass, mackerel, flounder, snook, black drum, and more.
What is the best rod for surf fishing?
The best surf fishing rod will depend on your personal preferences and the type of fish you are targeting. Seeker Hercules Surf Spinning Rod is a popular choice among surfcasting anglers in longer lengths. It is made of Devious Red “S” glass composite blanks, which provide the raw power and stability that deep-sea fishermen need in battling Marlin, Tarpin, and other large species.
Is it better to buy a rod and reel combo or separate one?
It depends on your needs and budget. If you are a beginner or looking for a more affordable option, buying a rod and reel combo can be a good choice. However, if you are an experienced angler and want to customize your setup, buying a rod and reel separately may be a better option.
What makes a good surf casting reel?
A good surf casting reel should have a large spool size, high line capacity, and a strong drag system. It should also be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the harsh saltwater environment.
What is the best surf fishing combo under 100?
The KastKing Centron Spinning Reel – Fishing Rod Combo is a popular choice for surf fishing for under 100 dollars. It is affordable, durable, and has a wide range of sizes and power options to choose from.
What is the longest-casting surf rod and reel combo?
The Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is known for its long casting distance. It is designed with a high-modulus graphite blank that provides excellent sensitivity and power. The reel has a large spool size and high line capacity, making it a great choice for surf fishing.
