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

The Best Fishing Rod For EVERY Technique! ( Beginner To Advanced + Rod Actions )

Everything you need to know about fishing rods! From how to get the most out of budget rods, to the meanings of rod action and power codes. Tim is showing everything you need to know to get the best fishing rods for your favorite techniques, regardless of your budget!

Fishing gear is expensive and the truth is, most anglers just guess when buying a rod. You're at the mercy of a tackle shop employee or an online review as you spend spend hard earned money on a new rod. It doesn't have to be that way! Understanding ratings, codes, and how popular brands differ, will take all the guess work out so you can make the best selections for your fishing style.

Below you'll find links to many of our favorite rods, separated by technique. We've also included a few budget friendly rods as well. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

IF YOU COULD ONLY HAVE ONE...

Casting Rod– Shimano SLX 7'2" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Casting Reel– Shimano SLX A 150 (HG): https://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

Spinning Rod– Fenwick HMG 7'1" Medium XFast: https://bit.ly/4cXBAjD

Spinning Reel– Daiwa Legalis LT 2500D–XH: https://bit.ly/3Y0kDh3

BRAIDED LINE...

Budget– Power Pro Braid: https://bit.ly/2aFg46b

Affordable– Sufix 832: https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

Refined– Seaguar PEX8: https://bit.ly/3UEhhl2

Spinning– 10-15 lb Line

Casting– 40 lb Line

FAVORITE CASTING RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Jig (Pitch and Flip)– Shimano Expride B 7'4" Heavy Mod Fast: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Jig (Football)– G Loomis GLX 844C MBR: http://bit.ly/2gqziwT

Jerkbait– Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: https://bit.ly/32IrXqE

Alabama Rig– Shimano Zodias 7'5" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Chatterbait– Megabass P5 Destroyer 7'2" Daemos: https://bit.ly/3wHoXpD

Spinnerbait– St. Croix Legend Tournament 7’3” MH Fast: https://bit.ly/3Iow9KV

Heavy Flipping– Shimano Expride 7'11" XH: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Weightless Worms– Megabass P5 Dark Sleeper: https://bit.ly/2wVOSbY

Tail Spin/Blade– Shimano Expride 7’2” Medium LIght: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Keitech (4.8)– Fenwick World Class 7'3" Medium Heavy XFast: https://bit.ly/3qbGEya

Underspin (Finesse)– Daiwa Steez AGS 7'6" Med Med Light: https://bit.ly/44wVwFk

Big Swimbait– G Loomis IMX Pro 966 SWBR: https://bit.ly/3ktZFnF

Lipless Crankbait– G Loomis IMX Pro 855C CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Deep Crank (Tight Action)– G Loomis IMX Pro 906 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Deep Crank (All Around)– Shimano Zodias 7'6" MH Glass: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

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

Frog– Shimano Expride 7'3" Extra Heavy: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Bait Finesse– Cashion Icon 6'10" Medium Light Fast: https://bit.ly/3mLIIes

Spoon– St. Croix Legend Elite 7'4" Heavy: http://bit.ly/2z2qdHc

Texas Rig– Shimano Poison Adrena 7'3" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/4cVIwOI

Topwater– G Loomis GLX 843C MBR: https://bit.ly/2gqziwT

FAVORITE SPINNING RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Strolling– Expride 6'10" Medium XFast (Solid Tip): https://bit.ly/2osaj3q

Dropshot– G Loomis NRX+ 822S DSR: https://bit.ly/2RB0oJP

Ned Rig– G Loomis NRX+ 821S DSR: https://bit.ly/2RB0oJP

Tube– St. Croix Legend Elite 7'6" Medium: http://bit.ly/2pjJWMA

Northern Hair Jig– St. Croix Victory 7'10" Med Light: https://bit.ly/2RPMkfV

FAVORITE BUDGET RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Jerkbait– Shimano SLX 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2mGp1Vc

All Around Crankbait– St. Croix Mojo Glass 7'4" MH: https://bit.ly/2YIxLy5

Lipless Crankbait– St. Croix Black Bass 7'2" Med Hvy Mod: https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

Jig– Fenwick Eagle 7'3" Medium Heavy Fast: https://bit.ly/4b25LGh

Texas Rig– Daiwa Tatula XT 7’3” MH Fast: https://bit.ly/3wqRhwq

All Around– Shimano SLX 7'2" Medium Heavy: http://bit.ly/2mGp1Vc

Dropshot/Ned Rig– St. Croix Bass X 6'10" Med Light X Fast: https://bit.ly/3xi0ren

Topwater (Walking)– Abu Garcia Veritas 7' Medium Fast: https://bit.ly/3CGiPVg

Topwater (Popper) – St. Croix Bass X 6'8" Medium X Fast: https://bit.ly/3A5CFSU

Big Swimbait– Savage Gear 8' Heavy Squad: https://bit.ly/3tT8bS2

Frog– Daiwa Tatula 7’4” Heavy Frog: http://bit.ly/2Q4NgKA

WANT TACTICALBASSIN GEAR??

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