2025 BUYER'S GUIDE: The Best Fishing Rods For Bass Fishing At Every Price!

We've looked at every rod, from every brand, at every price range, and today we've assembled a list of THE BEST FISHING RODS! From beginner anglers, to budget fishermen, advanced anglers to the true enthusiasts, we've found the best rods you can get!

Come along as we dive into the world of fishing rods! Everything has been reset in 2025 as new rods entered the market, old rods were discontinued, price adjustments were impacted by tariffs, and availability has been a guessing game for many brands. With that in mind, we're launching a brand new Buyer's Guide video we've never done before! From the lowest price point to the highest, these lines of rods stand out at their individual prices.

Below you'll find links to all the rods discussed in the video, including some of our favorite models from each rod 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


BEGINNER RODS...

•Daiwa Aird X (Casting): https://bit.ly/2Z2JfYG

•Daiwa Aird X (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2P7Z3Vu


•Abu Garcia Vengeance (Casting): https://bit.ly/4hx5z58

•Abu Garcia Vengeance (Spinning): https://bit.ly/42oNpwm


•Dobyns Colt (Casting): https://bit.ly/2lU0LfV

•Dobyns Colt (Spinning): https://bit.ly/4l2N7l8


BUDGET RODS...

•Shimano SLX A (Casting): https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

•Shimano SLX A (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2AdvIC1

Models: 6'10" Medium Casting, 7' Medium Light Spinning


•Daiwa Tatula XT (Casting): https://bit.ly/3wqRhwq

•Daiwa Tatula XT (Spinning): https://bit.ly/3n6Ojvx

Models: 7'3" Heavy Casting, 7'1" Medium Light Spinning


•Fenwick Eagle (Casting): https://bit.ly/4b25LGh

•Fenwick Eagle (Spinning): https://bit.ly/3Lo1gKC

Models: 7'5" Heavy Fast Casting, 7'1" Medium Spinning


BUDGET BALLER RODS...

•Cashion Element Z2 (Casting): https://bit.ly/48w69eC

•Cashion Element Z2 (Spinning): https://bit.ly/47GAOVA

Models: 6'10" Med Light Casting, 7' Medium Casting, 6'10" Medium Spinning


•St. Croix Black Bass (Casting): https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

•St. Croix Black Bass (Spinning): https://bit.ly/4diwkqT

Models: 7'4" Heavy Fast Casting, 7'3" Medium Light XFast Spinning


•Dobyns Fury (Casting): https://bit.ly/2bGvlVV

•Dobyns Fury (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2e7HZPF

Models: 734 Casting, 765 Casting, 702 Spinning


MID PRICED RODS...

•Shimano Intenza (Casting): https://bit.ly/2QADLTq

•Shimano Intenza (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2s7kaQn

Models: 6'10" MH Casting, 7'4" Med Light Spinning


•Megabass Levante (Casting): https://bit.ly/2OSVNwH

•Megabass Levante (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2XkVoej

Models: Flat Side Special Casting, Braillist Casting, 7' Shakyhead Spinning


•St. Croix Victory (Casting): https://bit.ly/3f4tcEb

•St. Croix Victory (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2RPMkfV

Models: 7'4" Heavy Fast Casting, 6'8" Medium Xfast Spinning


MID HIGH RODS...

•Fenwick Elite (Casting): https://bit.ly/3MyC6tb

•Fenwick Elite (Spinning): https://bit.ly/46TZviy

Models: 7'1" Medium Casting, 7'1" Medium XFast Spinning


•Shimano Expride B (Casting): https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

•Shimano Expride B (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2osaj3q

Models: 7'2" ML Casting, 6'10" MH Spinning


•Dobyns Champion Extreme (Casting): https://bit.ly/2ab2kRX

•Dobyns Champion Extreme (Spinning): https://bit.ly/29OVnDa

Models: 744 Casting, 745 Casting, 702 Spinning


HIGH END RODS...

•Megabass Destroyer P5 JDM (Casting): https://bit.ly/2wVOSbY

•Megabass Destroyer P5 JDM (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2B7NyFj

•Megabass Destroyer P5 USA (Casting): https://bit.ly/3wHoXpD

•Megabass Destroyer P5 USA (Spinning): https://bit.ly/3RmuKdN

JDM Models: Oneten Stick Casting, Windbuster Spinning

USA Models: Daemos Casting, Flyssa Spinning


•St. Croix Legend X2 (Casting): https://bit.ly/3IOSXcJ

•St. Croix Legend X2 (Spinning): https://bit.ly/4farXAh

Models: 7'4" Heavy Fast Casting, 7'3" ML Xfast Spinning


•G Loomis NRX+ (Casting): https://bit.ly/2SuZG15

•G Loomis NRX+ (Spinning): https://bit.ly/2dX9zjv

Models: 843C MBR Casting, 852S JWR Spinning


ENTHUSIAST RODS...

•St. Croix Legend Xtreme (Casting): https://bit.ly/2wlJQLu

•St. Croix Legend Xtreme (Spinning): https://bit.ly/37UhrKR

Models: 7'4" Heavy Casting, 7'6" Medium Spinning


•Megabass Destroyer Evoluzion (Casting): https://bit.ly/4oXDY0A

•Megabass Destroyer Evoluzion (Spinning): https://bit.ly/4nxU53D

Models: Oneten Stick Evolution Casting, Tsubamegaeshi Spinning


•Shimano Poison Ultima (Casting): https://bit.ly/3OfNBGe

•Shimano Poison Ultima (Spinning): https://bit.ly/3uDBhcY

Models: 7'4" ML Spinning, 6'10" Medium Casting


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: $300 ROD AND REEL COMBOS!

It's amazing how nice the rods and reels are at this price! The $300 mark represents a huge jump up in quality and sensitivity. We're branching out across rod and reel brands in search of the best deals on quality gear! There are some awesome new additions, as well as some time tested favorites... let's go!

For the guy who wants to experience next–level sensitivity, you can grab a durable budget reel and pair it to a high end rod and still fit the budget. For the guy who wants to cast a mile, you can invest in a higher end reel and pair it to a durable rod. Also, if $300 is outside your budget, we've already published $100 and $200 guides (see below). If you prefer high end gear, stick with us every day as we continue climbing the ladder of high end tackle.

Below you'll find links to the exact rod and reel combos in the video. We've included our favorite models from each product line and our favorite reel sizes and speeds for each combo. 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: Best Jigs And Jig Trailers– https://youtu.be/OQwFNTORnN4

Buyer's Guide: Best Chatterbaits And Trailers– https://youtu.be/14NqxFIWGgo

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

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


SPINNING COMBO #1...

Rod– St. Croix Mojo Bass Trigon: https://bit.ly/3UFPcaO

Models: 6'10" Med Light, 7'1" Med, 7'3" Med Light

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

Size: 2500HG, 3000HG


SPINNING COMBO #2...

Rod– Halo KS II Elite: https://bit.ly/32Rp9nh

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

Reel– Daiwa Procyon MQ LT: https://bit.ly/46x4Ytp

Size: 2500–XH


SPINNING COMBO #3...

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

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

Reel– Shimano Ultegra: https://bit.ly/2nfApml

Size: 2500 HG


SPINNING COMBO #4...

Rod– Shimano Curado: https://bit.ly/3FhEn6d

Models: 6'8" Medium, 7' Light, 7'6" Med Light+

Reel– Shimano Stradic FM: https://bit.ly/4hkHxdn

Size: 2500 HG


CASTING COMBO #1...

Rod– Cashion Core: https://bit.ly/3GkcyNs

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

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

Speed: 7.2:1


CASTING COMBO #2...

Rod– Shimano Intenza: https://bit.ly/3QjR9Kw

Models: 7'6" MH Glass, 7'1" Med Heavy, 7'4" Heavy

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

Speed: 7.2:1


CASTING COMBO #3...

Rod– Daiwa Tatula: https://bit.ly/2Q4NgKA

Models: 7' Medium, 7'3" Med Heavy, 7'4" Heavy

Reel– Tatula CT: https://bit.ly/41yAh5W

Speed: 7.3:1


CASTING COMBO #4...

Rod– Fenwick HMG: https://bit.ly/3AyrAiW

Models: 7'1" Medium Heavy, 7'5" Heavy Fast

Reel– Abu Garcia Revo SX LP: https://bit.ly/40nsz0i

Speed: 7.3:1


CASTING COMBO #5...

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

Models: Braillist, Flat Side Special, EMTF

Reel– Daiwa Tatula 150: https://bit.ly/33X5Zfr

Speed: 7.3:1


CASTING COMBO #6...

Rod– St. Croix Victory: https://bit.ly/3f4tcEb

Models: 6'8" Medium, 7'1" Med Hvy, 7'4" Heavy

Reel– Seviin GSC: https://bit.ly/3WptV6W

Speed: 7.3:1


CASTING COMBO #7...

Rod– Shimano Zodias: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Models: 7'5" Heavy, 7'5" Med Heavy, 6'10" Med Heavy

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

Speed: 7.4:1


BAIT FINESSE COMBO...

Rod– Dobyns Sierra Ultra Finesse: https://bit.ly/3C4PWgc

Models: 7' Light Ex Fast, 6'9" Light Fast

Reel– Shimano Curado BFS: https://bit.ly/2QGRVF2

Speed: 8.2:1


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