2025 BUYER'S GUIDE: The Best Entry Level Rod And Reel Combos For Bass Fishing!

Who makes the best fishing rods and reels?? Today we're covering the most value–packed entry level rods and reels for bass fishing! With so much gear on the market, it's hard to know where to spend your hard–earned money. We're here to help!

Some of these rods and reels are staples in their categories, while others are brand new. It's important to understand that entry level rods are a reference to price, not to angler skill level. Anglers at this price range deserve the best gear they can afford, and that's exactly what they'll find amongst the gear on our list today. Let's check them out!

Below you'll find links to all the rods and reels in today's video. We've listed them in the order they appear, and included our favorite models from each line. All the links go directly to tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

•Best Jigs– https://youtu.be/KVy_HzsNdv4

•Best Chatterbaits– https://youtu.be/NaLpakzewTs

•Best Spinnerbaits/A Rigs– https://youtu.be/ipLAgQwf_t0

•Best Fishing Rods– https://youtu.be/d4sEMLCcETs

ENTRY LEVEL SPINNING COMBOS

Rod– Shimano Sellus: http://bit.ly/2ro5vQu

Favorite Models: 7'1" Medium, 7'1" Medium Heavy

Reel– Shimano Nexave: https://bit.ly/3nhj4f1

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod– Daiwa Aird X: http://bit.ly/2P7Z3Vu

Favorite Models: 7' Medium, 7' Medium Heavy

Reel– Daiwa Revros LT: https://bit.ly/3rpoPw9

Favorite Size: 2000

VALUE PACKED CASTING COMBOS...

Rod– Abu Garcia Vengeance: https://bit.ly/4hx5z58

Favorite Models: 7' Medium XFast, 7'3" Medium Heavy Fast

Reel– Abu Garcia Max5 Pro: https://bit.ly/4pGZ4Az

Favorite Speed: 7.5:1

Rod– Dobyns Colt: https://bit.ly/2lU0LfV

Favorite Models: 7' MH, 7'3" Heavy

Reel– Shimano Caius: https://bit.ly/2O3Dvuw

Favorite Speed: 7.2:1

Rod– Shimano SLX A: https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Favorite Models: 6'10" Medium, 7' Medium Heavy, 7'5" Heavy

Reel– Shimano SLX A 150: https://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

Favorite Speed: 7.2:1

Rod– Tatula XT: https://bit.ly/3wqRhwq

Favorite Models: 7' Medium, 7'1" Medium Heavy

Reel– Daiwa Aird 80: https://bit.ly/46up5Mx

Favorite Speed: 7.5:1

Rod– St. Croix Bass X: https://bit.ly/3A5CFSU

Favorite Models: 6'8" Medium XF, 7'4" Heavy Fast

Reel– Seviin GF: https://bit.ly/3qa2SQZ

Speed: 7.3:1

VALUE PACKED SPINNING COMBOS...

Rod– Dobyns Maverick: https://bit.ly/3DsJYvf

Models: 6'9" Medium, 7' Medium Light

Reel– Daiwa Legalis LT: https://bit.ly/3Y0kDh3

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod– Fenwick Eagle: https://bit.ly/3Lo1gKC

Models: 7' Medium Light, 7'1" Medium

Reel– Shimano Nasci: https://bit.ly/2g278cC

Favorite Size: 2500 HG

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

2025 BUYER'S GUIDE! Best Spinnerbaits, Trailers, Alabama Rigs, and Gear!

Today's buyers guide is all about spinnerbaits and A–Rigs! We're streamlining two of the largest categories in bass fishing to help you fish with confidence! Come along as we take a quick dive into some of the best spinnerbaits and rigs on the market!

Spinnerbait options can leave the most seasoned angler confused! Different shapes, sizes, and blade configurations all impact the effectiveness of your bait. The same can be said for A–Rigs, but not after today! With spinnerbaits, we're focused on baits that run flat, track true, and fish well when paired with simple trailers. With A–Rigs we're focused on reliable baits with great movement!

Below you'll find links to the baits and gear in the order we discussed them. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of the items.

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

Buyer's Guide: Best Jigs And Jig Trailers– https://youtu.be/KVy_HzsNdv4

Buyer's Guide: Chatterbaits– https://youtu.be/NaLpakzewTs

FULL FRAME SPINNERBAITS...

•Nichols Catalyst: https://bit.ly/3QfCSuM

Color: Gizzard, Bombshell Shad

•Nichols Dirty Flake: https://bit.ly/427QocQ

Colors: Alabama Bream, Tactical Shad, Moon Shiner

MID FRAME SPINNERBAITS...

•Dirty Jigs Compact: https://bit.ly/3OyxKDD

Color: Tactical Shad, Alabama Bream, Chartreuse Shad

•Damiki TOT Type 1: http://bit.ly/38cxmD6

Color: Smelt Shad, Sharp Belly

•War Eagle Screamin Eagle Nickel: https://bit.ly/2IEHHjA

Colors: Mouse, Spot Remover, Aurora

•Megabass SV–3: https://bit.ly/3lk1SD0

Color: Gill, Hasu, Wakasagi

FINESSE SPINNERBAITS...

•War Eagle Finesse: https://bit.ly/4246JxU

Color: Mouse, Sexxy Mouse

•Zman Sling Bladez Power Finesse: https://bit.ly/35NqVev

Color: Mouserat, Greenback Shad

KICKER BLADE SPINNERBAITS...

•Nichols Red Colorado: https://bit.ly/46Mxmtz

Colors: Coleslaw, Citrus Shad

•Nichols Pulsator Hoosier Series: https://bit.ly/3sUKJEd

Colors: Coleslaw, Snow, Citrus Shad

TRAILERS AND STINGER HOOKS...

•Gamakatsu Trailer SP Hook: https://bit.ly/2IGCfg1

Size: 1/0 - 3/0

•Gamakatsu G Stinger Trailer: https://bit.ly/3jdoaWN

Size: 2, 1

•Keitech 4.3" Fat Swing Impact: http://bit.ly/2ab7s8v

Colors: Pro Blue Red Pearl, Electric Shad

•Nomad 4" Spectre Minnow: https://bit.ly/48MOyle

Colors: Arkansas Shiner, Blueback Herring

SPINNERBAIT STORAGE...

•Buzbe Fast Flatz (Half Large): https://bit.ly/3Tu2yac

TACTICAL BLADED RIGS...

•Hog Farmer Tactical MICRO Flex (Bladed): https://bit.ly/3RY1wUK

•Hog Farmer Tactical MINI Flex (Bladed): https://bit.ly/3uwY6Md

•Hog Farmer Tactical Flex Rig (Bladed): https://bit.ly/38xd1es

•Hog Farmer Tactical 5 Hook (Bladed): https://bit.ly/429NWTK

TACTICAL NON BLADED RIGS...

•Hog Farmer Tactical MICRO Flex (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3Rui7Oc

•Hog Farmer Tactical MINI Flex (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3isTio0

•Hog Farmer Tactical Flex Rig (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3vhpSez

SWIMBAIT HEADS (Largest To Smallest)...

•Matt Allen Swimbait Head: https://bit.ly/29RrTYN

Recommended Size: 1/8 – 3/8 oz

•ZMan Trout Eye Finesse Head: https://bit.ly/3C7H1iL

Recommended Size: 1/8 oz

REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS AND TOOLS…

•Owner Hyperwire Split Rings: http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX

Size: 4

•Owner CPS Spring: http://bit.ly/2b2YgDf

Size: Medium

SWIMBAITS FOR MICRO RIG…

•Damiki Armor Shad: http://bit.ly/2KtPDAT

Size: 3”

Colors: American Shad, Pure Gill

•XZone Swammer: http://bit.ly/2PogV0q

Size: 2.75"

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl

SWIMBAITS FOR MINI AND FLEX RIG...

•XZone Swammer: http://bit.ly/2PogV0q

Size: 3.5 - 4.75”

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl, Sexy Shad

•Keitech Fat Swing Impact: http://bit.ly/2ab7s8v

Sizes: 3.8" - 4.8"

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl

RIG STORAGE...

•Rig Rangler: https://bit.ly/3DqKUw2

•Rod Glove XL Sleeve: http://bit.ly/2GFOT9R

•TW Alabama Rig Bag: https://bit.ly/3Z1xAbH

HIGH END SPINNERBAIT COMBO...

Rod– G Loomis GLX 844C MBR: https://bit.ly/2gqziwT

Model: 7'1" Heavy Fast

Reel– Shimano Metanium DC A 70: https://bit.ly/49al91d

Line– Sufix 131 Braid (40 lb): https://bit.ly/314VoyF

Leader– Sufix Advance (14 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

BUDGET SPINNERBAIT COMBO...

Rod– Fenwick Eagle 7'3" Med Heavy: https://bit.ly/4b25LGh

Reel– Abu Garcia Max Pro: https://bit.ly/3QKCQOG

Line– Sunline FC (15 lb): https://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

ALL AROUND RIG COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Zodias 7’5” Medium heavy: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Reel– Shimano Curado 150 M (HG): https://bit.ly/4odTDs7

Line– Power Pro Maxcuatro 65 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ

Leader– Seaguar Gold Label (20 lb): https://bit.ly/3UqrUbi

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

Affordable Rods And Reels For Bass Fishing! (Best Budget Rod And Reel Combos)

Don't be fooled by cheap junk, there are some great rods and reels at affordable prices! With new technologies trickling down, bass fishing doesn't have to be expensive! These awesome rods and reels will save you a ton of money while offering great sensitivity and durability. Let's take a look!

The "BUDGET" category of bass fishing has erupted and we're really excited to take an in depth look with you! From power fishing to finesse, casting to spinning, Its hard to recognize the budget landscape from just a few years ago. Whether you're brand new to the sport, fishing on a budget, or maybe you're looking for the best value in fishing gear, this video is for you!

Below you'll find links to the exact rods and reels discussed in the video. We've listed them in the order they appeared and included our favorite sizes and models for each. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

LOW PRICE SPINNING MODELS...

COMBO #1...

Rod– Shimano Sellus: https://bit.ly/2ro5vQu

Models: 6'8" Medium, 7'1" Medium

Reel– Shimano Nexave: https://bit.ly/3nhj4f1

Size: 2500, 3000

COMBO #2...

Rod– Daiwa Aird X: http://bit.ly/2P7Z3Vu

Model: 7' Medium

Reel– Daiwa Revros LT: https://bit.ly/3rpoPw9

Size: 2500

LOW PRICE CASTING MODELS...

COMBO #1...

Rod– Daiwa Aird X: https://bit.ly/2Z2JfYG

Models: Medium Heavy Fast, Heavy Fast

Reel– Daiwa CC 80: https://bit.ly/34ltqP9

COMBO #2...

Rod– Abu Garcia Vengeance: https://bit.ly/4hx5z58

Models: 7'3" Heavy, 7' Medium Heavy, 7' Medium

Reel– Abu Garcia Max X: https://bit.ly/4ffgUVe

MID PRICED SPINNING MODELS...

COMBO #1...

Rod– Dobyns Maverick: https://bit.ly/3DsJYvf

Models: 6'9" Medium, 7' Medium Light

Reel– Daiwa Legalis LT: https://bit.ly/3Y0kDh3

Size: 2000

COMBO #2...

Rod– Daiwa Tatula XT: https://bit.ly/3n6Ojvx

Models: 7' Medium Fast, 7'1" Medium Light Fast

Reel– Daiwa Fuego LT: https://bit.ly/2yDmdtQ

Model: 2500

COMBO #3...

Rod– Cashion Element Z2: https://bit.ly/47GAOVA

Models: 6'10" Medium, 7'1" Medium Light

Reel– Shimano Nasci FC: https://bit.ly/2g278cC

Size: 2500

COMBO #4...

Rod– Shimano SLX A: https://bit.ly/2AdvIC1

Models: 6'9" Medium XFast, 7' Med Light XFast

Reel– Shimano Miravel: https://bit.ly/3QZnwL5

Size: 2500HG

MID PRICED CASTING MODELS...

COMBO #1...

Rod– Dobyns Colt: https://bit.ly/2lU0LfV

Models: 7' Medium Heavy, 7'3" Heavy

Reel– Abu Garcia Max STX: https://bit.ly/3UpUmJo

COMBO #2...

Rod– Shimano Clarus: https://bit.ly/49BxmwW

Model: 6'10" Medium, 6'10" Medium Heavy

Reel– Shimano Caius 150: https://bit.ly/3P3GkL7

COMBO #3...

Rod– Savage Gear Squad: https://bit.ly/3tT8bS2

Models: 7'1" Medium Heavy, 7'1" Medium Topwater

Reel– Shimano Caius 150: https://bit.ly/3P3GkL7

COMBO #4...

Rod– Fenwick Eagle: https://bit.ly/4b25LGh

Models: 7'1" medium, 7'3" Med Hvy

Reel– Abu Garcia Max Pro: https://bit.ly/3QKCQOG

COMBO #5...

Rod– Shimano SLX A: https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Models: 6'10" Medium, 7'2" heavy, 7'5" Med Heavy

Reel– Shimano SLX A: https://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

COMBO #6...

Rod– St. Croix Bass X: https://bit.ly/3A5CFSU

Models: 7'4" Heavy, 7'2" Med Hvy Mod, 6'8" Medium XFast

Reel– Seviin GF Series: https://bit.ly/3qa2SQZ

COMBO #7...

Rod– Daiwa Tatula XT: https://bit.ly/3wqRhwq

Models: 7'1" Medium Heavy, 7' Medium, 7'3" Heavy

Reel– Daiwa Fuego CT: https://bit.ly/35hugfH

HIGH END SPINNING COMBO...

COMBO #1...

Rod– Shimano Intenza: https://bit.ly/2s7kaQn

Models: 7' Medium Light, 7' Medium, 7'4" Medium Light

Reel– Shimano Miravel: https://bit.ly/3QZnwL5

Size: 2500HG

HIGH END CASTING COMBOS...

COMBO #1...

Rod– St. Croix Black Bass: https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

Models: 6'8" Medium, 7'2" MHM, 7'1" MH Fast, 7'4" Heavy

Reel– Shimano SLX XT: https://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Speed: HG (7.2:1)

COMBO #2...

Rod– Cashion Element Z2: https://bit.ly/48w69eC

Models: 6'10" Med Light, 7' Medium Heavy, 7'3" Heavy

Reel– Shimano SLX 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/3gIUCgJ

Speed: HG (7.2:1)

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

BUYER'S GUIDE: CRANKBAIT FISHING (SHALLOW TO DEEP + RODS)

Today's Buyer's Guide is all about crankbaits! Crankbaits are a huge lure category but today we're breaking it down into a handful of baits. From cold water speed cranking baits, to lipless baits, to shallow square bills, we’re showing you our favorite crankbaits at all the major depth ranges!

You can stand in front of the crankbait wall at your local tackle shop and your head will spin as you try to figure out what to use. Or, you can simply watch this video and let us show you exactly how we’ve narrowed it down over the years. We’re eliminating all the guess work and showing you our favorite baits from each major category.

Below you'll find links to the exacts baits and gear discussed in the video. We've included our favorite sizes and colors for each, as well as the exact rods we throw them on. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

Buyer's Guide: $100 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/2eCEb3G3VE0

Buyer's Guide: $200 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/AcrTDhtaSQg

Buyer's Guide: $500 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/WAgpVnuE800

Buyer's Guide: $$ High End Combos $$– https://youtu.be/obxNp48IALo

Buyer's Guide: Alabama Rigs– https://youtu.be/wPm3izTumxk

Buyer's Guide: Strolling– https://youtu.be/EVnMJWMtZhE

Buyer's Guide: Spinning Reels– https://youtu.be/Ua7pEd04ikw

Buyer's Guide: Casting Reels– https://youtu.be/auHdSCwYaI0

Buyer's Guide: Hard Swimbaits– https://youtu.be/LmlH3MGLnvY

Buyer's Guide: Soft Swimbaits– https://youtu.be/D0CCgJxMLZ0

SHALLOW CRANKBAITS...

•Shimano Macbeth Shallow: https://bit.ly/48m3ch1

Colors: Ghost Shad, Sleeper Shad

•Damiki BTC 50: https://bit.ly/3OVb3Lc

Colors: Real Shad, Mossy Shad

•Megabass Super Z Z–1: https://bit.ly/2Y9dkHB

Colors: Mat Craw 2, Kasumi Ito

•Spro Little John: https://bit.ly/2dDfuqt

Colors: Blood Craw, Chrome Olive, Fire Craw

SQUAREBILL CRANKBAITS...

•Bill Lewis ATV 1.5: https://bit.ly/41o3ctj

Colors: Red Glitter Craw, Tennessee Shad

•Bill Lewis ATV 2.5: https://bit.ly/3UDHRdp

Colors: Red Glitter Craw, Tennessee Shad

•Rapala OG Rocco: https://bit.ly/3PHvNCI

Colors: Bruised Citrus Shad, Red Crawdad

•Rapala OG Big Rocco: https://bit.ly/3Z10UBj

Colors: Bruised Citrus Shad, Red Crawdad

MID DIVING CRANKBAITS...

•Spro Rock Crawler 55: https://bit.ly/2NFPA5t

Colors: Red Crawfish, Phantom Green

•Rapala DT 10: https://bit.ly/2BL0UYl

Colors: Citrus Shad, Live River Shad

DEEP DIVING CRANKBAITS...

•R2S Tactical DD 75: http://bit.ly/37dclbX

Colors: True Shad, DD Minnow, Northern Special

•Nomad D–Trak 80: https://bit.ly/3MRvMxz

Colors: Natural Threadfin, Brown Craw

•Megabass Deep Six: http://bit.ly/2A3clKP

Colors: Ito Wakasagi, MB Gizzard, Tora Zari

LIPLESS CRANKBAITS...

•Bill Lewis Rat–L–Trap: https://bit.ly/2gm8CjC

Colors: Cali Craw, Ghost Minnow, Sexy Chrome

•Nomad Swimtrex Max (1/2 oz): https://bit.ly/3SjrDWD

Colors: Threadfin Shad, Chartreuse Threadfin Shad

•Lucky Craft LV 500: http://bit.ly/2aAUUbd

Colors: American Shad, Chartreuse Shad, Ghost Minnow

•Jackall TN 70 Lipless: https://bit.ly/2lqAwjh

Colors: Ghost Minnow, RT Scale Minnow, SG Threadfin

LIPLESS COMBO...

Rod– St. Croix Black Bass: https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

Model: 7'2" Medium Heavy Moderate

Reel– Shimano SLX XT: https://bit.ly/3YgnWE8

Line– Power Pro Braid (30 lb): https://bit.ly/2aFg46b

Leader– Sufix Advance (14 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

FAVORITE SPEED CRANKING COMBO...

Rod– G Loomis IMX Pro 906 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Reel– Shimano Curado 150 MGL (XG): https://bit.ly/2TQHwrP

Line– Sunline Crank FC (12 lb): https://bit.ly/3fohguC

FAVORITE SQUAREBILL COMBO...

Rod– Megabass Levante Flat Side Special: https://bit.ly/2FdE3YY

Reel– Shimano Bantam MGL A (HG): https://bit.ly/2H44yjG

Line– Sunline Crank FC (12 lb): https://bit.ly/3fohguC

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to hats and hoodies! Its all available direct through Tackle Warehouse with fast shipping. See it here... 

TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz