I caught some of my biggest fish on my daughter's push button Scooby-Doo doo pole from toys r us when she was starting out. Until a giant carp pulled it in
I caught 2-3 2 and 3 pounders out of a creek with a stick line and a hook lol I just had 1 u tale work with me lol I couldn't even reel them in so I just pulled them out by hand lol
You summed that up perfectly. I started with budget rods and have upgraded over time. And yes the higher end rods and reels will make a day on the water more enjoyable.
Leo Jeidy I have quite cheap gear and have fished since I was young ( not that old now) but i have never had a problem with my gear but always buy new stuff 😂
Don’t think I own any rod over $200. Most are around $150. Reels I have a few Shimano that were $285-300. Again not $500+. Rods like the micro magic pro, some of the favorite rods, st croix Bass X. They aren’t super expensive but they offer pretty good features and fishing. If I break one, I replace it. That’s my happy medium. I think it’s about what works for you. Reels I like my curados, scorpions, and the new slx is nice. Got a 13 fishing concept z for sale for $100. These feel good for me. Daiwa tatula is nice too. Abu Revo is another I like. These guys are all in that $100-$200 except the more expensive shimanos $200-$300 and I’m happy as a pig in shit. Dobyns fury is good enough for me as well.
I use a little bit of each, cheap, mid range, exspensive. I've got cheap 50 buck daiwa rods with cheap 40 buck reasls, abu Garcia rods matched with black maxes, KVD rods with quantum reels, skeet Reese rods with lews reels, and Phoenix rods with daiwa and lews reels. I've had Shakespeare ugly stiks that I loved and 200 dollar rods I've hated. Fished powells, ducketts, Dobyns, Cashions, Berkley bionix crank bait rod I had that was 7ft, that was the best crank bait rod I've ever owned over the KVD cranking rods. Had a 5:4:1 left hand lews on it and I used it for square bills all the way up to 6xds and the dredgers. Loved loved LOVED that rod. Left the thing at a boat ramp at night throwing wake bait on it. Went back 1 hour later and it was gone gone gone. Anybody got one wanting to sale hmu. I will say this about RODS, the slower you move the bait the and more you drag, the more high quality rod you want. I like a higher quality cranking rod too, swimbait rod also. Spinner baits, vibrating jigs, frogs, topwater, umbrella rigs, and stuff like that I find a cheaper rod works good enough for me. I had a ugly stik that was my favorite buzz bait rod ever. Got another one just EXACTLY like it that ain't worth a shit!!!!! You get what you pay for, for sure. C rig, Texas rig, drop shot, jig, nekko rig, Tokyo rig, all them techniques like that, in my opinion that's when you need higher dollar rods. Wanting to buy a new set of rods thinking about the dobyns fury series BUT my buddy has a few and has had bad luck with them breaking. But I think I'll pick up a few to put through the test.
Very informative video and I totally agree. Most of my equipment is in the mid-range. The higher end equipment has better feel but it is very gradual as you move up from mid-range. Going from the bargain basement gear to the $100 dollar mark is a huge transition. From the $100 point to the $300 price point is substantial. Anything over that is icing on the cake.
I used to fish higher end rods when I was tournament fishing. I used mostly Chronarch and Curado reels paired with Loomis rods. My boat was stolen with my equipment in it. I needed some quick gear so I bought a couple of Bass Pro Extreme combos to use until my insurance money came in. I went to lake fork with this gear and was blown away. The reels were amazingly smooth and rods were very sensitive certainly as sensitive as a bass fisherman would need. The only thing I didn’t like was the heavier handle on the road. This set off a series of events of me testing rods from Falcon and All Star that we’re half the cost of what I was previously using. I won a few tournaments with the Bass Pro setups, I caught my PB 11lb 2oz largemouth on the combo, and I had just as much fun. It was a real lesson about diminishing returns. I should add that I’m not saying the BP was equal to my loomis. Clearly they weren’t. I’m saying I didn’t appreciate the difference and the results were the same. I worry that so many anglers chase expensive gear to try and get an edge when there is likely no edge
derrick henry as far as casting the curado is almost as good as chronarch and with certain baits I was able to cast farther with the curado. I choose the chronarch because it fits my hand better tho.
Same here. Except my kistlers which I'm surprised they havent really mentioned yet. I'm way up in upper Michigan and I've been slamming fish on a lot of gear they recommend way out in cali
Thank you TacticalBassin. This is a subject I have been interested in for a long time, but it is rarely discussed. I am guessing that it is because of two reasons. First, because of the variation in budgets, it is hard to speak to the entire audience at the same time. Second, there are just so many rods and reels out there that it is hard to compare simply because not many people have tried the all. Matt, you mentioned how the NRX is the high end, industry standard. I wish there were more universally accepted benchmarks at different price ranges. With that said, your drawing a distinct line between the SLX/Fury and the Expride is exactly what I want to know. It gives me the benchmarks to work with, My next jump in gear quality will be to the SLX/Fury level, and I will stay around there until I decide (if I ever decide) to jump to the Expride level. This video was extremely valuable to me. You talked a lot about rods. If you are so inclined, you guys should do a similar video on spinning rerls and another on baitcasting reels. Again, offer some benchmark levels for each.
Ive had my Pflueger president for 5 years. Oil it every year still smooth as butter like brand new. Very good spinning reel. Might add a casting rod and go with 2 rods this year.
One thing that is often missed by a lot people is they need to find gear that suits the type of fishing THEY do. Myself for example I wade a very rocky river so durability is more important to me than being super light weight. Which is why I steer away from the solid carbon reels like the Ci4 and go for reels like the Dawia BG and Stadic FK (soon to be the new FL).
Great video. Simply put, buy the best equipment you can afford. But don’t let inaccessibility to high end gear stop you from fishing. I get where some can get the wrong impression they cannot be successful without high end equipment. For me, what would be frustrating is to have experienced what it’s like to fish with the higher end equipment, but not have the budget for it.
One of thee best informative videos on gear I've ever seen. Excellent explanations, detailed, easy to understand, honest information. Thank you tactical bassin
With the amount of people that are obsessed with bass fishing these days it upsets me that u guys dont have 5million subs,, best and most informative channel by a land slide
Fantastic as always, thank you, to you Matt and tim,one thing that I've enjoyed since becoming a tactical fan is the truth,God bless you guys, keep up the good work, you are appreciated
Just want to share that I appreciate your videos so much Matt. Not only is the information you share wonderful, but your tone, how you explain things, and your passion really comes through in the videos. I didn't have my dad or brother interested in fishing, so it's usually trial and error for me to learn; but I want to improve and get better at it, so I'm glad I found you! Thank you :)
*looks over at my low end budget gear.... still loves them for the memories* i cant stress this enough, buy what fits your life style, love the video, so true. looking forward to upgrading but i cant hate on the low end gear for the style i typically fish
@@toddjudd8657 I have a couple $1000+ set ups for steelhead and that's just fun fishing, hell one of my reels was $850... I still find it hard to justify more than a couple hundred for a bass rod or reel though just because when bass fishing I want... well.. as many rods as possible haha steelhead fishing I carry 1 or 2.
After 50 years. Never to late. For me. Dobyns champion xp, paired with shimano curado. Found this combo just this year. Heaven on the water. Dobyns $259, Curado $159.
That was a great pep talk and highly informative. Bottom line for me. If you can justify and afford spending more you won't be sorry. If you choose to get in at a value price for decent gear, you won't be sorry either. Thanks, never having fished a thousand dollar combo I didn't realize there could be so much difference. I also want to say how professional your presentations are.
I love these information-rich pieces, Matt. I'm sure most of your subscribers value your opinions on gear, it is such an important piece of being successful on the water. I have found, this season, that one of the MBR rods is terrific for walking baits. I have dedicated a rod walking baits now. I had gone back and forth between more moderate rods and faster rods, but that MBR rod really fits what I have been looking for perfectly. It's nice to hear you mention that.
I couldn’t agree more. I started with an ugly stick/black max combo and caught many fish with it, but as I studied and learned, I started to move up the price ladder. When I got to an ex pride, I thought I had reached the pinnacle, then I got a Megabass FMJ for jigs. I had never realized what I had been missing. It was a totally different feel, experience, and joy. I have begun to slowly replace my lower end rods with higher end and have found that fishing is more fun, especially on those days when the bite is tuff! I find myself not getting as frustrated, fatigued, or infuriated! When the bite is on, it doesn’t matter what combo you are using! On those hard long days it really does make a huge difference when when I pitch into submerged timber with a Shimano GL Conquest Cast Rod 7'6" Heavy 904C MBR and a Metanium MGL combo, and can tell the difference between a jig hitting a limb and a subtle take on hard pressed bass. I have been blessed that I am now in the position to start the transition over to high end equipment and couldn’t be happier, but like most I started with the cheapest combo I could afford, the main thing is get out on the water and learn how these incredible predators work. Thanks Matt and Tim for just teaching!
The fury is a great rod line up but I can’t stand dobyns customer service so I switched to the iRod Fibers, which perform as well or better. And they actually back up their products. Unlike dobyns who refused to replace my rod even when it snapped on the cast on camera
The answer... SLX lmao but seriously I fish about once a week. Upgrading to around $200 a combo has made a huge difference in how long I stay on the water and more importantly how many bites I’m picking up and fish I’m keeping on.
Excellent explanation especially in regards to weight of equipment I have tendinitis in both wrists and fishing with light equipment it’s the difference between enjoying fishing or fishing in pain. And that is PRICELESS.
Haha well, I'm 65 have had open face reels, abu Garcia bait casters for bass, closed faced reels, expensive rods, cheap rods. Guess what? I use a Zebco 33 classic reel with 10lb test Stren line and a Zebco rod for bass, trout, and horn pout and for under $30.00 I can have 3 or 4 with different test lines and replace them every year if I needed to. I've got plenty of combos and I'll grab that 33 Zebco combo every time. I just restrung all my reels for this coming spring, oiled it up and I'm ready to go for another season. Imho if you want to spend lots of money, go ahead. But I'll hit the BS button every time on that one. If you have a finger under the line at the back of the pole, you'll feel any hit and it won't cost you some wacko amount of money.
Nice job Matt Perfect explanation and break down. I’m 60 yrs old and have fished rods from Ugly sticks to Fenwick E glass and every thing in between growing up. Now I fish Loomis NRX rods because they are light and sensitive. My wrists and shoulders don’t hurt at the end of the day and a lot more fun to fish with.
Matt: Great presentation. I really enjoyed the information and your style. When I was a kid I fished perch in Green Bay, WI with string, sinker and hook attached to a board. Probably on the low end of the tackle spectrum, but it was FUN and I’ve been hooked ever since those times 60 years ago. The equipment has changed, and become much better, but the fun has only matched the times on Green Bay. You stressed we all have a fishing budget. Whatever equipment a person can afford can create memories of a lifetime. Thanks for educating all of us. God Bless!
G Loomis fan here, I absolutely enjoy my GLX MBR 783 . I’ve had this rod since 1992. Caught a lot of fish with it. Paired with a Shimano Chronarch CH100B reel . Amazing! Fishing 97% from shore. Keep up the great work guys!!
Yeah sorry but I don’t. What I think a bunch of people like about Matt & Tim is they aren’t constantly promoting some paid for sponsors like soooo many UA-cam channels do. Keep it paid sponsorship free because there is nothing better than unbiased opinions from people we respect....but that’s just my opinion 😁
Joe they do not have a paid affiliation with any tackle companies or even receive free gear to test “long term” they may be asked to test some gear and give their feedback but do “not” get to keep that gear. They do receive credits for tackle based on their tacklewarehouse links they provide on each video. There was a tackle tour thread last year where guys were accusing them of representing Shimano of some type of paid or free gear sponsorship. They were slamming them. I brought it to Matt & Tim’s attention. Tim’s reply was classic and shut them all TF up and afterwards they were all apologizing for talking out their asses.
Thanks Matt for confirming what I felt when using the Daiwa rod. I'm a weekend warrior and I have a Daiwa Aird-X that I got a while back, caught a bunch of fish on it and it feels like I'm using a $200+ rod! Keep 'em coming.
My budget is low so my rods are a St Croix MOJO bass and St Croix Premie. That brand is cheap but super great for its price. Caught many gaint hogs with those rod.
I've only been seriously fishing for about a year at this point but I've been all over the U.S fishing bass, pike, trout/salmon, panfish, whole deal, but the only thing I've ever spent money on is replacement baits and lures and licences. Every reel and rod I've used comes from a small collection of budget gear my dad had sitting in our shed for at least two decades. Taught me that fishing is an activity that you can enjoy and get "good" results out of with minimal monetary commitment.
My take is buy the best rod you can then the best reel you can to balance the combo. Explain it your love like this, "Just like shoes, there's a difference between a classy pair of Italian shoes and a cheap pair of WM kicks." She'll understand.
That works for the first combo, now I say" fishing is like golf, just like a golfer has a club for every situation, Ihave a rod for every situation and a bait, and line, and a lucky hat, a skinny water boat, kayak, bass boat........" well stop at the rods. No need to let them know how much we spend. Tight lines everyone.
- $100 Favorite Fishing Defender Casting Rod Medium Heavy 7 Ft $100 13 Fishing Origin TX Baitcast Reel 7.3:1 Ratio Is the most expensive combo i Own for now (Cheap combos are under this must read message) . Companies and cost means much like you said . Also how you take care of your things . Thanks to your video I focus on researching anything I buy 👍🏽 - $60 BassPro Tourney Spinning 6’6 Medium Heavy . 5:1:1 Ratio On The Reel ( all around great combo just to some it up . Throw from a senko to a whopper plopper 110 and caught LMB ) - $60 Googan Spinning 6’6 Medium Heavy . 5:2:1 Ratio On The Reel ( cast pretty good range , smooth and I have cheap line on it for now , I actually got this as a backup senko rod and now made it my number 1 . It’s very strong , caught my PB 3.7 LMB with it on a zman chatterbait actually but best for senkos or even crankbaits because of the fiber tip . Very bendy strong but weighted rod by Favorite ) - $60 Lews American Hero Spinning 6’6 Medium. Fast Action, 6:1:2 Ratio On The Reel ( haven’t used yet ) ( Baitcaster ) - $40 Shakespeare Low Pro 6’6 Medium. 6:3:1 Ratio On The Reel ( used for about 30 minutes works fine just wanted to use my other rods lol I got it to also learn how to throw a baitcaster )
I started with a shimano ix4000R and a simple 6 ft Shakespeare rod for freshwater. I think it is best to start with low grade gear so you appreciate the better gear. And you also learn that skill and experience are more important than gear any day. Slowly build your gear, start with just lures and terminal gear after maybe spending $50-75 on a combo rod and reel. I bought my first Shakespeare Surf rod for $69 at Walmart almost 20 years ago for saltwater. I finally upgraded to a Penn Fierce III combo for my new surf gear this year. Got as a birthday gift actually. It was still only $100 for the combo. I have more money in terminal gear and fishing line than rod and reels. One 5000 reel, one 2000 reel, and I still have the ix4000R as my ultra light. 4 rods all around $50 each, 2 are KastKing I got recently, very nice. I splurged for a baitcaster this year also. $100 for the combo. You shouldn't be breaking rods if you use the right terminal gear and line. Granted I would take the $250+ rod and reels for free but I will not pay more than $100 for any rod or reel. Maybe if I was tournament fishing or a pro, but as just a guy who likes to fish, the gear you like to use and use often is the best gear!
No matter what you say people will complain. High end rod make a big difference. You are right, you could feel the bites. I been using low end for years until I pick up two high end. I could fish all days without my waist hurting. Love the channel
There's that old saying "You get what you pay for". Thank you for this comprehensive video. I'm just getting serious about freshwater fishing and this was majorly helpful!
As I’ve grown as an angler my equipment has evolved. I started with running cheap fenwick rods with pflueger and Abu reels. But once I got my hands on a quality set up I could honestly feel the difference. I’ve slowly been changing everything to ALX and Cashion Rods with Tatula’s and it has made fishing so much more enjoyable (not to say it wasn’t before)
Naw!!!!! There are a hole lot of rip offs. Look at the "favorite" brand. Cheap Chinese wholesale trash gear. But prices are way to high. Because you're paying for hype.
@@ForTeensFitness i just ain't into overpriced Chinese wholesale gear. I would rather buy the same exact rod blank from kast king for half the price. Kast king and favorite and shishimo and the wish stuff and ali exspess stuff is all the same exact manufacturer. As long as you buy atleast 5,000 orders you can start you're own brands. Its all about feeling out a check list then. Pick you're name, pick color, logo, which all this stuff. See i had no problem with kast king because some of there stuff is priced ok! Its cheap gear that want last but they sale it as cheap fishing gear that want last. "Favorite " litterly marks the price up through the roof. They are trying to fool people. There have been a lot of foolery companies comeing in the past few years. They have learnd that most people caint tell a $50 rod to a $150 so they are saleing $50 rods for $150 and useing there ACTOR names to sale them. Put it this way . The shishimo baitcaster off wish is $29.99 the kast king Royal legend is $39.99 the "Favorite" White bird is $89.99 They are litterly all the same identical reel off the same exact manufacturer line. Difrent colors. In fact the only thing different on the Favorite is the checked a few cheaper boxes on the check list. The drag is a little cheaper and there was something else that was cheaper. So kast king is charging you $10 fof there name. Favorite a little less quality is charging $50 mark up for there popularity. You have to be careful now days There is a hole lot of wholesale Chinese companies comeing into the fishing industry useing gimmicks to sale gear. There is stuff from China that is solid. But not wholesale. And you have to know what manufacturing it came from. China is not China is not China. What i mean is there is solid gear made in China but its from manufacturing companies that have been working with big name brands that invest in there manufacturing processes to make quality better. But these wholesale companies that favorite and this wish stuff its all the bottom of the line. But like i said most people that have never used a expensive rod caint tell a hudge difrence. They go from wal mart rods so than they use a $100 favorite rod and think its awesome. But in reality that rod is a $45 rod. Its not that all favorite is terrible. Its all way overpriced. O! go watch tackle advisor on UA-cam. The reel wars or. Favorite vs shishimo vs kastking. He breaks them all down and puts them all back together but all mix match makes them all with sharing their parts.
I was finally able to make my first jump into upper mid range equipment earlier this year and it’s made a world of difference in my fishing. As a college kid, I don’t have a ton of money to spend on fishing gear but I saved my pennies and did a ton of research until I was able to make an informed purchase. I now understand why higher end gear is so sought after because it really is a night and day difference in sensitivity, comfort, and just all around fun
@@booya6437 Shimano sienna is a really good reel. I own the sienna 4000 and sienna 2500. With the 4000 it was a really good experience right from the get-go. With the 2500 I had to go through three of them to find a good one. I kept getting all the lemons at first. Very smooth fishing reel. The bail is like butter. Wanting to get into baitcasting reels I had to go with something different. I just recently purchased an Abu Garcia 5601 c4. One of the swedish models. I'm looking to pair that with a medium or medium heavy rod. I've always been a big fan of Shimano. I have four of their spinning rods. I'm more than likely go with the Shimano for the Abu Garcia reel. I find that I like the cheaper stuff better. They just work for me.
I started 3 years ago with Dick's Diawa Samurai combos, 2 for $35. It was all I used for 2 years, and I caught plenty of fish. Now I understand a little more about the action and what helps with certain baits, I have 10 new mid range combos this year, and it has made fishing even more enjoyable. Even caught my first 7 pounder!
This is such good advice, because you aren't just picking something up and trying it, you speaking from experience and giving pros and cons to all, thank you!
Me too and it is easier to do so being divorced. 6 rods and counting with a black max baitcaster among them, looking for another baitcaster that slings lures better than the Black Max....... Digesting what Matt and others are saying.
I have a small Telescopic Rod with a Daiwa Spinning reel, 15lb Braid/6lb diamater. I call it my Recon Rod. Keep it in the car wherever I go just in case an emergency fishing spot comes up. Because I use it more often, this rig has become one of my favorite setups ever in history.
Quantum Pulse Bait caster reel 6 to 6 ratio and a Ugly Stick medium heavy. 12 pd mono low vis green. Cheap on both ends. Senko green pumpkin Texas rigged. My favorite! See ya! At Lake's. SHAWN
This video really helped. I’ve always ran “okay gear” (50$ rod 50$ reel) and I’ve done great with it. No complaints. But I think I want to take a step up and try out 100$-200$ reels and 100$-200$ rods. Been on the fence about it all fishing season this year. And I think I’m going to take the plunge lol. I feel like that price range is where you’re getting the best bang for the buck and not going broke.
I get what my budget allows most of my stuff is pretty cheap I have a couple $200 combos but that top of the budget for me and I’m perfectly fine with that, I just wanna fish I don’t need the best of the best, if I am fortunate enough some day to have the extra money I can spend on a high end combo maybe I will but until then I’ll enjoy what I got, I’m not in competition with anybody for the nicest gear, I enjoy y’all videos, y’all always keep it real, haters are gonna hate so 🖕 em!!
My first rod was a bit of bamboo and about 2 meters of line tied to the end, perfect for creeks and off bridges. Caught loads of fish but when i started lure fishing i started real cheap but when i started to go more often i stepped up untill i hit my trophy trout, then i stepped up again to about $350 set up, Ive fished for 35 years now and only just got my first $700 set up. If you love it then why not spend a bit on what you love? Wife costs me a lot more and she never gets used lol...
I was down at 11:15 when you said fun and to get away. I’m new to all of this. Literally 3 weeks in but I’ve been a few times and the excitement of reeling one in is euphoric, just chillin on the lake and giving my mind a break is the absolute best part though! I see myself getting hooked, no pun intended, and that’s how I found myself viewing this video. A bit too advance for me right now cause I have zero idea about some of the things your talking about but seems like great info. I’ll get there. Great video. Subscribed for more!!
You did a good job explaining the difference between expensive and cheap gear. I've been fishing for 40 years and I've used a large range of different gear expensive and cheap. I've caught a multitude of fish species wait and size of fish with using cheap gear I have a few Rod that were $200 but to be honest I can fish any body of water using my favorite rod which is the Shakespeare Ugly Stik which is about a 15 to $20 rod with a Shakespeare Durango reel which run about 10 bucks at Walmart and be perfectly happy and catch my limit for the day in fish.
I Broke a St. Croix tournament series rod just by hooking my hook to the keeper. Apparently that is considered "High Sticking" so no warranty coverage :(
They snap pretty damn easy for that price. Broke one in 2 weeks took it back and found out it’s extremely common even though it was rated for an oz. I broke it off a 1/2 oz cast lol I own 14 rods and it’s the only one that ever snapped
@@Pat19997 for what its worth that angle of pull is basically the ultimate high sticking angle. I have one st.croix, a premier 7' medium heavy I've been useing for flipping and frogging for a year, I've put some pretty intense pressure on that blank and that's not even one of their high end rods.
Hi I'm not a Bass fisherman, I fish big jerk baits for Pike on Westin rods.Your right an expensive rod gives more than it takes.I would like to say that you're sure helping me get through this lock down period over here in the U.K .
I am 61 year's old I've been fishing for 53 years and i love bass fishing i am like a little kid and what you said is COMPLETE THREW I EXPERIENCED IT. Thank you for the video and it was nice that you came up in the Midwest we do have some great smallmouth fishing up north....
I just did that this past winter. Not everything. But, nearly everything. I really like the rods with the American Tackle Microwave guides. And nearly every reel is now Lew's. I had Shimano reels on most of my rods. Junk. Will never buy another Shimano.
Great Job Matt. Tough subject for sure and glad I have someone like you to speak from xp truthfully. I think its worth noting that one can look at many different fields of "work" and find that the most experienced and best at what they do will all say something similar with "The equipment becomes part of me while I am....". Musicians, Fine artists, surgeons, crane operators...ect will make reference to a quality of effortlessness which only comes from tons of time and effort to learn. Hearing you verbalize this confirms what I had already known about you and that is that you are a very good fisherman. I can now make wise decisions after listening to your insights. I respect your advice and experience. Played guitar for over 30 years and yes what you say speaks volumes. I and many others appreciate your time to make a difference. Thanks Matt.
It's important to keep in mind that expensive equipment isn't going to MAKE you a good fisherman. Just slightly better. These guys could catch bass on the cheapest equipment I own. I fish with some people who use budget gear and will 100% of the time outfish others with us who use expensive gear
i remember back when i was a boy we tied a hook and line unto a tree branch and caught 10pound fish while we were playing around. i laugh when i see people now with 1000$ of equipment and a suitcase full of lures cant even catch anything while i am going home because there is no more space in my ice box because its full of fish. fishing has become a rich people hobby. before it was poor people that fished because it was "free" meat. up until now i always dug for my own worm, i was about to buy worms for the first time and they were 8$ for 12worms at the store. i cannot believe it.
As J Waller said it, when you're good, fish comes to you, fish wants you! So the equipment quality will help but, the experience, timing, right bait, location, will make fish jumping right on your plate! Fried lol
recently bought a Loomis GLX 853c along with my Chronarch MGL, and it's just a pleasure fishing with such an insane quality, light , firm, and sensitive rod. Love how it plays fish and feels in my hands. My kistler and Expride rods are a 2nd close at a lower price point but Loomis is a pleasure still, but i spent years of fishing everything from ugly sticks, berkley, shakespeare, through, quantum, 13 fishing, Mojo's, Duckett and many others. There is a difference if you know what you are looking at total quality rod, so easy to cast. I was just thinking about this tonight while thowing a texas rig craw and how easy it was, if i could have one rod for me, it's a GLX 853c. Never thought i would say that until i got one.
Thank you for the video. I've fished for years and really never paid attention nor cared to spend too much on a combo. The most I've spent on a combo has probably been $60-$70. I'm a seasonal and I've been curious about what I would really be spending more money on with more expensive setups.
I don't like the balance on st croixs but my 610 m legend tourny destroys my 610m shimano expride in sensitivity and build quality. After playing with different brands I think im sticking with st croix from here on out.
Knowing what the bait is bumpin into, comes with higher end stuff. Even with mono or floro I can tell between small rocks and gravel, boulders or logs, muck, sand and cheese. It helps me choose what I think I should throw.
That was a real video. Just enjoy being out there who cares what you fish with. I'm impressed by TB they are real guys with real opinions and advice. Thank you Matt and Tim for all you guys share with us so apperciative. I also like that they aren't sponsored to share/advertise gear they are sponsored by. It speaks volumes that they only want you to enjoy your fishing experience. Thanks Matt and Tim
After years of fishing with only hand-me-down "mis-matched" poles and reels (spinners, I hate spin-casters and have never used a bait caster) I just yesterday picked up my first brand new rig. Ultralight rod-reel combo from Gander Mountain, their store brand: Sakana. Was too exhausted yesterday to go out after getting home, so very much looking forward to going out to check it out today, very very soon here. I put 4 lb mono on it, 5 ft 6 in graphite rod. 60 dollar combo. Feels SO nice. Just futzing with it in my house I can totally feel the difference between this and my other "mismatch" rods and reels. ... Now I want more new rods LOL. (and actually need to replace the reel I use for braided line) I'd like to hear more about recommendations in the sub $100 combo range.
Nice rig! That's nearly exactly my main setup. I'm using exclusively St. Croix's Mojo Bass and Bass X medium fast spinning rods paired up with Pflueger President size 30 reels. I do have one St. Croix Legend Tournament with the Pflueger Patriarch spinning setup for a "high-end" rig which I only use under certain conditions but the Mojo and Bass X get the most use and perform extremely well for the money.
Thanks again tactical..!!! This is why I love this channel.. I still don’t see why the channel doesn’t have a million subs...!! Honest and very intelligent reviews and recommendations.. that everyone could understand and put to use..!! Thanks again
Haha 😂. I'm a beginner fisherman and I used to think ugly stick was the best fishing combos. Now I am a proud owner of a shimano spinner and a baitcaster combos. 😁
I have a hand-me-down'd 5'6"M Ugly Stik from my uncle that said he bought it like the first or second year they came out; the rod is as old as I am yet still a fantastic smallie slayer and one of the most productive rods I own including banking several trophy size river pike & muskie.
I was pretty pumped when I found a 50lb halibut rod. I have some nicer rods too, but you really can't beat a care-free day at the lake using a rod you wouldn't cry about breaking (not that they do) 😎
just ran across your content. Nicely done...I've fished spinning for 55yrs and haven't ever felt they couldn't compete with baitcaster reels. Now I love and prefer conventional on the Ocean where casting isn't necessarily the point.one the surf I use both conventional and spinning without a second thought.... unless a lining hardware then. for me it's spinning rigs. Your emphasis on the pole is dead on point. Yeah we can catch on anything. even a cane pole with a line tied to the end, but for sporting fun a lower quality rod will always leave me feeling I left my game in the locker room. Still there are reasons to spend more or less on a rod. That's due to the type of fishing you're going after. Old geezer told me once when I was young it's 'horses for courses' looking forward to watching more of your content
Y'all are the best in the business with reviews. I respect all the time and energy y'all put into a very unbiased opinion on all the gear y'all try out.
Can't say enough about the dobyns fury. I've used both the casting and spinning versions and they are great entry level rods. Can't go wrong with dobyns
Matt, this is the best discussion of rod value and performance I have ever heard. I fish a lot and have a variety or rods from medium to somewhat higher cost rods and really appreciate what you are saying. Great Job.
I'm just now getting back into bass fishing and I've bought 2 Abu Garcia Vendetta's and I'm loving them. They're only ~$80 or so but they seem to be well built and fairly sensitive for the price point. However, my favorite feature is the bait holder haha! It's literally perfect for any type of lure I'm using.
That is a great reel and rod combo. I still keep one on my boat. I have moved on to a few high end ones as well. I know everyone can't afford them. I will only have two in my life. But that was my decision with my money. No complaints from me. Enjoy what you have and what makes you happy. It is after all. Your life. Fish on my friend.
@@robertrodriguez4587 slightly true. You can send your broken rod in and get a replacement. I broke a walmart flueger combo and they swapped it up to a fenwick eagle. I immediately felt the difference which led to dobyns Croix and fitzgeralds. I will never again argue Big brand against low end.
I am definitely a bargain hunter when it comes to rods. I have employed several of your prior ideas on my last 4 rods. Am I glad I did. I fish longer, catch fish that used to get away, and thoroughly enjoy fishing more now than ever. Great info in this video!
Forgetting about your gear was a perfect analogy. Fishing from the bank there's just too many obstructions to hit with a really expensive rod so I've stayed in the mid range for now. Even then sometimes I worry about hitting things and have even broke a few nice rods. Live and learn. Been loving the consistency in the length of the recent videos, that 20-30 min mark is perfect.
I had been using inexpensive spinning rod combos from Canadian Tire my whole life. Whatever was on sale or cheapest. Had no problem catching fish and I usually only fished for a few hours at a time so fatigue wasn’t an issue, so I never thought of upgrading. After watching this video last year I decided to take a step up to the Shimano SLX rod. I didn’t immediately notice a difference. It wasn’t until I used my old cheap rod again that l noticed the difference. I couldn’t feel a damn thing and it felt bulkier and heavier. Now I love the SLX, it’s so lightweight and sensitive. I feel like I can feel every little nibble, can usually guess the size and species of fish right away. In my opinion it’s definitely worth the upgrade when you’re ready and can afford it. However don’t rush, you can still catch plenty of fish on cheaper gear. I found now that I upgraded, I can’t use any of my old rods, they just have no feel to them, but I’m fine with that! Onwards and upwards.
Pablo Pantaleon Tackle Tour has an Xtasy currently for testing. I don’t know when they received it and with a rod in that range it will usually take them a year to post their review. I have a 755 and it’s a love hate relationship. Love the balance, sensitivity and light weight but it’s not a Mag-Hvy. It fishes like a Med-Hvy and it’s been extremely hard to stick fish when using baits the rod was designed for...deep water jigging. The tip is way too light to drive home a 1/2 or 3/4oz football jig hook in 20’ of water on a medium long cast. Same issue when I tried to use it for heavier Jack Hammers. Love the way it casts and feels but it just won’t drive the hooks home. Almost sold it on the BBC boards until I used it for 3/4 & 1oz Dark Sleepers which we throw a ton on Lake Michigan. I does drive sleeper hooks in no problem and the length and tip keep fish pinned. Also i love it for S-Waver 168’s and Gan Craft Claw 175’s. I do not need a $550 rod for glide baits but it casts those baits a mile, without helicoptering, keeps treble hook fished pinned exceptionally well and since I love it for Dark Sleepers for the bottom sensitivity, I’ve decided to hang onto it. Would I buy another? Maybe one of the Spinning rods, a 722SF maybe but not another caster.
I have to say, I do have a lews rod I like, however the reels always feel cheap to me. Even the expensive lews just feel cheap in my hand. Just my opinion but I think lews is partly hype. When it comes to reels I stick to the big 3.
I also dont like the round handles they are putting on most of their reels. I prefer the paddles. Lots of people love their lews, that's great. For me, the feel isnt there for the price. I suspect that may be why they never recomend lews but just guessing. Dont get too mad at me guys, I know people love their lews.
I use all Lews reels, but, you gotta get a reel over 100.00. They last, and i'm used to them. They're doing something right, they bought strikeking... but, I don't like the round grips at all
Some people buy sneakers for $200, while some would never spend more than $60. Thanks for airing out this topic. Feels good to have nice quality things, especially when its for something you really enjoy. To each their own! Thanks Matt, for always being honest.
Caught a 4lb largemouth with my sons paw patrol rod n reel combo 🤣
That is so cool! 😁
I caught some of my biggest fish on my daughter's push button Scooby-Doo doo pole from toys r us when she was starting out. Until a giant carp pulled it in
Heck yeah looks like the pink dora the explorer rod is going to catch something good this year
I caught 2-3 2 and 3 pounders out of a creek with a stick line and a hook lol I just had 1 u tale work with me lol I couldn't even reel them in so I just pulled them out by hand lol
No you didn’t , I broke one in half and the reel came apart on a 2lb bass
You summed that up perfectly. I started with budget rods and have upgraded over time. And yes the higher end rods and reels will make a day on the water more enjoyable.
Well said
Leo Jeidy I have quite cheap gear and have fished since I was young ( not that old now) but i have never had a problem with my gear but always buy new stuff 😂
Dingy same I’ve had the same lews $70 combo for like 5 years maybe. The reel is a little crunchy lol but I still use it when I go.
Don’t think I own any rod over $200. Most are around $150. Reels I have a few Shimano that were $285-300. Again not $500+. Rods like the micro magic pro, some of the favorite rods, st croix Bass X. They aren’t super expensive but they offer pretty good features and fishing. If I break one, I replace it. That’s my happy medium. I think it’s about what works for you. Reels I like my curados, scorpions, and the new slx is nice. Got a 13 fishing concept z for sale for $100. These feel good for me. Daiwa tatula is nice too. Abu Revo is another I like. These guys are all in that $100-$200 except the more expensive shimanos $200-$300 and I’m happy as a pig in shit. Dobyns fury is good enough for me as well.
I use a little bit of each, cheap, mid range, exspensive. I've got cheap 50 buck daiwa rods with cheap 40 buck reasls, abu Garcia rods matched with black maxes, KVD rods with quantum reels, skeet Reese rods with lews reels, and Phoenix rods with daiwa and lews reels. I've had Shakespeare ugly stiks that I loved and 200 dollar rods I've hated. Fished powells, ducketts, Dobyns, Cashions, Berkley bionix crank bait rod I had that was 7ft, that was the best crank bait rod I've ever owned over the KVD cranking rods. Had a 5:4:1 left hand lews on it and I used it for square bills all the way up to 6xds and the dredgers. Loved loved LOVED that rod. Left the thing at a boat ramp at night throwing wake bait on it. Went back 1 hour later and it was gone gone gone. Anybody got one wanting to sale hmu. I will say this about RODS, the slower you move the bait the and more you drag, the more high quality rod you want. I like a higher quality cranking rod too, swimbait rod also. Spinner baits, vibrating jigs, frogs, topwater, umbrella rigs, and stuff like that I find a cheaper rod works good enough for me. I had a ugly stik that was my favorite buzz bait rod ever. Got another one just EXACTLY like it that ain't worth a shit!!!!! You get what you pay for, for sure. C rig, Texas rig, drop shot, jig, nekko rig, Tokyo rig, all them techniques like that, in my opinion that's when you need higher dollar rods. Wanting to buy a new set of rods thinking about the dobyns fury series BUT my buddy has a few and has had bad luck with them breaking. But I think I'll pick up a few to put through the test.
"Enjoy the gear you've got!" Best advice ever.
Very informative video and I totally agree. Most of my equipment is in the mid-range. The higher end equipment has better feel but it is very gradual as you move up from mid-range. Going from the bargain basement gear to the $100 dollar mark is a huge transition. From the $100 point to the $300 price point is substantial. Anything over that is icing on the cake.
"The Most Expensive Gear Is The Gear You Never Use"
Matt thanks for sharing.
Thats the best fish food for thought i ever heard👍👍 😆
Im just scared of scratching it...
I used to fish higher end rods when I was tournament fishing. I used mostly Chronarch and Curado reels paired with Loomis rods. My boat was stolen with my equipment in it. I needed some quick gear so I bought a couple of Bass Pro Extreme combos to use until my insurance money came in. I went to lake fork with this gear and was blown away. The reels were amazingly smooth and rods were very sensitive certainly as sensitive as a bass fisherman would need. The only thing I didn’t like was the heavier handle on the road. This set off a series of events of me testing rods from Falcon and All Star that we’re half the cost of what I was previously using. I won a few tournaments with the Bass Pro setups, I caught my PB 11lb 2oz largemouth on the combo, and I had just as much fun. It was a real lesson about diminishing returns.
I should add that I’m not saying the BP was equal to my loomis. Clearly they weren’t. I’m saying I didn’t appreciate the difference and the results were the same. I worry that so many anglers chase expensive gear to try and get an edge when there is likely no edge
Check out sixgill fishing rods. Reels are nice too but rods really great deal.
How much of a difference is there between curado and chronarch
derrick henry as far as casting the curado is almost as good as chronarch and with certain baits I was able to cast farther with the curado. I choose the chronarch because it fits my hand better tho.
Almost everything I own in rods and tackle have come from these guys and I don’t regret any decision! Thx for all the great tips guys!
Same here. Except my kistlers which I'm surprised they havent really mentioned yet. I'm way up in upper Michigan and I've been slamming fish on a lot of gear they recommend way out in cali
Thank you TacticalBassin. This is a subject I have been interested in for a long time, but it is rarely discussed. I am guessing that it is because of two reasons. First, because of the variation in budgets, it is hard to speak to the entire audience at the same time. Second, there are just so many rods and reels out there that it is hard to compare simply because not many people have tried the all. Matt, you mentioned how the NRX is the high end, industry standard. I wish there were more universally accepted benchmarks at different price ranges.
With that said, your drawing a distinct line between the SLX/Fury and the Expride is exactly what I want to know. It gives me the benchmarks to work with, My next jump in gear quality will be to the SLX/Fury level, and I will stay around there until I decide (if I ever decide) to jump to the Expride level. This video was extremely valuable to me. You talked a lot about rods. If you are so inclined, you guys should do a similar video on spinning rerls and another on baitcasting reels. Again, offer some benchmark levels for each.
Ive had my Pflueger president for 5 years. Oil it every year still smooth as butter like brand new. Very good spinning reel. Might add a casting rod and go with 2 rods this year.
One thing that is often missed by a lot people is they need to find gear that suits the type of fishing THEY do. Myself for example I wade a very rocky river so durability is more important to me than being super light weight. Which is why I steer away from the solid carbon reels like the Ci4 and go for reels like the Dawia BG and Stadic FK (soon to be the new FL).
An fk isn't gonna an encounter with a rock
You guys always give great advice , and post higher end rod and reel combos as well as budget friendly . Shouldn’t be getting any hate from anyone .
Great video. Simply put, buy the best equipment you can afford. But don’t let inaccessibility to high end gear stop you from fishing.
I get where some can get the wrong impression they cannot be successful without high end equipment.
For me, what would be frustrating is to have experienced what it’s like to fish with the higher end equipment, but not have the budget for it.
One of thee best informative videos on gear I've ever seen. Excellent explanations, detailed, easy to understand, honest information. Thank you tactical bassin
With the amount of people that are obsessed with bass fishing these days it upsets me that u guys dont have 5million subs,, best and most informative channel by a land slide
Fantastic as always, thank you, to you Matt and tim,one thing that I've enjoyed since becoming a tactical fan is the truth,God bless you guys, keep up the good work, you are appreciated
Just want to share that I appreciate your videos so much Matt. Not only is the information you share wonderful, but your tone, how you explain things, and your passion really comes through in the videos. I didn't have my dad or brother interested in fishing, so it's usually trial and error for me to learn; but I want to improve and get better at it, so I'm glad I found you! Thank you :)
*looks over at my low end budget gear.... still loves them for the memories* i cant stress this enough, buy what fits your life style, love the video, so true. looking forward to upgrading but i cant hate on the low end gear for the style i typically fish
I think anything over 150 is unjustifiable for most people. Unless your in tournaments
@@toddjudd8657 I have a couple $1000+ set ups for steelhead and that's just fun fishing, hell one of my reels was $850... I still find it hard to justify more than a couple hundred for a bass rod or reel though just because when bass fishing I want... well.. as many rods as possible haha steelhead fishing I carry 1 or 2.
the way i'v always done it is buying cheaper reels and not spending any more than 100 dollars for rods this is the best bang for your buck i've found
After 50 years. Never to late. For me. Dobyns champion xp, paired with shimano curado. Found this combo just this year. Heaven on the water. Dobyns $259, Curado $159.
The champion xps are awesome! I've used a couple and like them a lot.
That was a great pep talk and highly informative. Bottom line for me. If you can justify and afford spending more you won't be sorry. If you choose to get in at a value price for decent gear, you won't be sorry either. Thanks, never having fished a thousand dollar combo I didn't realize there could be so much difference. I also want to say how professional your presentations are.
I love these information-rich pieces, Matt. I'm sure most of your subscribers value your opinions on gear, it is such an important piece of being successful on the water. I have found, this season, that one of the MBR rods is terrific for walking baits. I have dedicated a rod walking baits now. I had gone back and forth between more moderate rods and faster rods, but that MBR rod really fits what I have been looking for perfectly. It's nice to hear you mention that.
I couldn’t agree more. I started with an ugly stick/black max combo and caught many fish with it, but as I studied and learned, I started to move up the price ladder. When I got to an ex pride, I thought I had reached the pinnacle, then I got a Megabass FMJ for jigs. I had never realized what I had been missing. It was a totally different feel, experience, and joy. I have begun to slowly replace my lower end rods with higher end and have found that fishing is more fun, especially on those days when the bite is tuff! I find myself not getting as frustrated, fatigued, or infuriated! When the bite is on, it doesn’t matter what combo you are using! On those hard long days it really does make a huge difference when when I pitch into submerged timber with a Shimano GL Conquest Cast Rod 7'6" Heavy 904C MBR and a Metanium MGL combo, and can tell the difference between a jig hitting a limb and a subtle take on hard pressed bass. I have been blessed that I am now in the position to start the transition over to high end equipment and couldn’t be happier, but like most I started with the cheapest combo I could afford, the main thing is get out on the water and learn how these incredible predators work. Thanks Matt and Tim for just teaching!
Stepped up to the Fury and SLX series on your recommendation and WOW!!! Talk about bang for the buck. Thanks for your work. Take Care.
Same there dobyns fury rods with the slx reels
The fury is a great rod line up but I can’t stand dobyns customer service so I switched to the iRod Fibers, which perform as well or better. And they actually back up their products. Unlike dobyns who refused to replace my rod even when it snapped on the cast on camera
I was going to get an SLX but saw that the SLX DC is coming out soon. I think ill wait on that one.
The answer... SLX lmao but seriously I fish about once a week. Upgrading to around $200 a combo has made a huge difference in how long I stay on the water and more importantly how many bites I’m picking up and fish I’m keeping on.
Excellent explanation especially in regards to weight of equipment I have tendinitis in both wrists and fishing with light equipment it’s the difference between enjoying fishing or fishing in pain.
And that is PRICELESS.
Haha well, I'm 65 have had open face reels, abu Garcia bait casters for bass, closed faced reels, expensive rods, cheap rods. Guess what? I use a Zebco 33 classic reel with 10lb test Stren line and a Zebco rod for bass, trout, and horn pout and for under $30.00 I can have 3 or 4 with different test lines and replace them every year if I needed to. I've got plenty of combos and I'll grab that 33 Zebco combo every time. I just restrung all my reels for this coming spring, oiled it up and I'm ready to go for another season. Imho if you want to spend lots of money, go ahead. But I'll hit the BS button every time on that one. If you have a finger under the line at the back of the pole, you'll feel any hit and it won't cost you some wacko amount of money.
Thank you very much, from a Disabled American Veteran.
Nice job Matt
Perfect explanation and break down. I’m 60 yrs old and have fished rods from Ugly sticks to Fenwick E glass and every thing in between growing up. Now I fish Loomis NRX rods because they are light and sensitive. My wrists and shoulders don’t hurt at the end of the day and a lot more fun to fish with.
Matt: Great presentation. I really enjoyed the information and your style. When I was a kid I fished perch in Green Bay, WI with string, sinker and hook attached to a board. Probably on the low end of the tackle spectrum, but it was FUN and I’ve been hooked ever since those times 60 years ago. The equipment has changed, and become much better, but the fun has only matched the times on Green Bay. You stressed we all have a fishing budget. Whatever equipment a person can afford can create memories of a lifetime. Thanks for educating all of us. God Bless!
G Loomis fan here, I absolutely enjoy my GLX MBR 783 . I’ve had this rod since 1992. Caught a lot of fish with it. Paired with a Shimano Chronarch CH100B reel . Amazing! Fishing 97% from shore. Keep up the great work guys!!
I think its about time for a TACTICAL BASSIN ROD BRAND, a budget line up and a expensive line up im team budget thanks guys
Team up with Shimano and come out with the Tactical Series! Heck yeah!
Great Idea!!! Please consider doin a line up of TB rods and reels.
Yeah sorry but I don’t. What I think a bunch of people like about Matt & Tim is they aren’t constantly promoting some paid for sponsors like soooo many UA-cam channels do. Keep it paid sponsorship free because there is nothing better than unbiased opinions from people we respect....but that’s just my opinion 😁
M2M-MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT BASSIN Very true. That is what turned me off from the Googan Squad.
Joe they do not have a paid affiliation with any tackle companies or even receive free gear to test “long term” they may be asked to test some gear and give their feedback but do “not” get to keep that gear. They do receive credits for tackle based on their tacklewarehouse links they provide on each video. There was a tackle tour thread last year where guys were accusing them of representing Shimano of some type of paid or free gear sponsorship. They were slamming them. I brought it to Matt & Tim’s attention. Tim’s reply was classic and shut them all TF up and afterwards they were all apologizing for talking out their asses.
Thanks Matt for confirming what I felt when using the Daiwa rod. I'm a weekend warrior and I have a Daiwa Aird-X that I got a while back, caught a bunch of fish on it and it feels like I'm using a $200+ rod! Keep 'em coming.
do you still think the aird x is decent rod?
My budget is low so my rods are a St Croix MOJO bass and St Croix Premie. That brand is cheap but super great for its price. Caught many gaint hogs with those rod.
St. Croix makes quality stuff.
SunWukong Monkey King St Croix is not a cheap brand. The MOJO is just one of there lower end models, but it’s a great rod.
I've only been seriously fishing for about a year at this point but I've been all over the U.S fishing bass, pike, trout/salmon, panfish, whole deal, but the only thing I've ever spent money on is replacement baits and lures and licences. Every reel and rod I've used comes from a small collection of budget gear my dad had sitting in our shed for at least two decades. Taught me that fishing is an activity that you can enjoy and get "good" results out of with minimal monetary commitment.
My take is buy the best rod you can then the best reel you can to balance the combo. Explain it your love like this, "Just like shoes, there's a difference between a classy pair of Italian shoes and a cheap pair of WM kicks." She'll understand.
That works for the first combo, now I say" fishing is like golf, just like a golfer has a club for every situation, Ihave a rod for every situation and a bait, and line, and a lucky hat, a skinny water boat, kayak, bass boat........" well stop at the rods. No need to let them know how much we spend. Tight lines everyone.
- $100 Favorite Fishing Defender Casting Rod Medium Heavy 7 Ft
$100 13 Fishing Origin TX Baitcast Reel 7.3:1 Ratio Is the most expensive combo i Own for now (Cheap combos are under this must read message) . Companies and cost means much like you said . Also how you take care of your things . Thanks to your video I focus on researching anything I buy 👍🏽
- $60 BassPro Tourney Spinning 6’6 Medium Heavy . 5:1:1 Ratio On The Reel ( all around great combo just to some it up . Throw from a senko to a whopper plopper 110 and caught LMB )
- $60 Googan Spinning 6’6 Medium Heavy . 5:2:1 Ratio On The Reel ( cast pretty good range , smooth and I have cheap line on it for now , I actually got this as a backup senko rod and now made it my number 1 . It’s very strong , caught my PB 3.7 LMB with it on a zman chatterbait actually but best for senkos or even crankbaits because of the fiber tip . Very bendy strong but weighted rod by Favorite )
- $60 Lews American Hero Spinning 6’6 Medium. Fast Action, 6:1:2 Ratio On The Reel ( haven’t used yet )
( Baitcaster )
- $40 Shakespeare Low Pro 6’6 Medium. 6:3:1 Ratio On The Reel ( used for about 30 minutes works fine just wanted to use my other rods lol I got it to also learn how to throw a baitcaster )
Like a favorite lure high end gear gives me confidence and enjoyment.
Confidence? What kinda mook ass thinking is that?
I started with a shimano ix4000R and a simple 6 ft Shakespeare rod for freshwater. I think it is best to start with low grade gear so you appreciate the better gear. And you also learn that skill and experience are more important than gear any day. Slowly build your gear, start with just lures and terminal gear after maybe spending $50-75 on a combo rod and reel. I bought my first Shakespeare Surf rod for $69 at Walmart almost 20 years ago for saltwater. I finally upgraded to a Penn Fierce III combo for my new surf gear this year. Got as a birthday gift actually. It was still only $100 for the combo. I have more money in terminal gear and fishing line than rod and reels. One 5000 reel, one 2000 reel, and I still have the ix4000R as my ultra light. 4 rods all around $50 each, 2 are KastKing I got recently, very nice. I splurged for a baitcaster this year also. $100 for the combo. You shouldn't be breaking rods if you use the right terminal gear and line. Granted I would take the $250+ rod and reels for free but I will not pay more than $100 for any rod or reel. Maybe if I was tournament fishing or a pro, but as just a guy who likes to fish, the gear you like to use and use often is the best gear!
"just the tip" 😂. Another great video Matt keep it coming.
Just for a second, just to see how it feels. That was my favorite game in high school
@@stevegawloski9722 creeper award goes to.....
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
👍
No matter what you say people will complain. High end rod make a big difference. You are right, you could feel the bites. I been using low end for years until I pick up two high end. I could fish all days without my waist hurting. Love the channel
Matt, I'm buying what you're selling. You're an amazing fisherman and teacher and role model and just an awesome dude to man crush on. Keep it up bro
There's that old saying "You get what you pay for". Thank you for this comprehensive video. I'm just getting serious about freshwater fishing and this was majorly helpful!
I just bought my son his first nice tod an reel it was only $120 but for a 13 year old a shimano Calcutta on a med heavy Fenn wick is golden
Shimano is the best dollar for dollar. My spinning reels are Sedona and Saros. Baitcast are quantum and six gill
As I’ve grown as an angler my equipment has evolved. I started with running cheap fenwick rods with pflueger and Abu reels. But once I got my hands on a quality set up I could honestly feel the difference. I’ve slowly been changing everything to ALX and Cashion Rods with Tatula’s and it has made fishing so much more enjoyable (not to say it wasn’t before)
The thing I’ve noticed with fishing gear/tackle is that you get what you pay for, plain and simple
@@jigsawalwayswins8636 durability isn't the only goal with a rod though.
Naw!!!!! There are a hole lot of rip offs. Look at the "favorite" brand. Cheap Chinese wholesale trash gear. But prices are way to high. Because you're paying for hype.
Daniel Beavers my favorite Rod is better than my Aries Rod, favorite just gets hate cause the googans
Steven Bagent Loomis sells rods for about 50-100 more then comparable rods, because the name. But, Loomis’ customer service is great.
@@ForTeensFitness i just ain't into overpriced Chinese wholesale gear. I would rather buy the same exact rod blank from kast king for half the price. Kast king and favorite and shishimo and the wish stuff and ali exspess stuff is all the same exact manufacturer. As long as you buy atleast 5,000 orders you can start you're own brands. Its all about feeling out a check list then. Pick you're name, pick color, logo, which all this stuff. See i had no problem with kast king because some of there stuff is priced ok! Its cheap gear that want last but they sale it as cheap fishing gear that want last. "Favorite " litterly marks the price up through the roof. They are trying to fool people. There have been a lot of foolery companies comeing in the past few years. They have learnd that most people caint tell a $50 rod to a $150 so they are saleing $50 rods for $150 and useing there ACTOR names to sale them. Put it this way . The shishimo baitcaster off wish is $29.99 the kast king Royal legend is $39.99 the "Favorite" White bird is $89.99 They are litterly all the same identical reel off the same exact manufacturer line. Difrent colors. In fact the only thing different on the Favorite is the checked a few cheaper boxes on the check list. The drag is a little cheaper and there was something else that was cheaper. So kast king is charging you $10 fof there name. Favorite a little less quality is charging $50 mark up for there popularity. You have to be careful now days
There is a hole lot of wholesale Chinese companies comeing into the fishing industry useing gimmicks to sale gear. There is stuff from China that is solid. But not wholesale. And you have to know what manufacturing it came from. China is not China is not China. What i mean is there is solid gear made in China but its from manufacturing companies that have been working with big name brands that invest in there manufacturing processes to make quality better. But these wholesale companies that favorite and this wish stuff its all the bottom of the line. But like i said most people that have never used a expensive rod caint tell a hudge difrence. They go from wal mart rods so than they use a $100 favorite rod and think its awesome. But in reality that rod is a $45 rod. Its not that all favorite is terrible. Its all way overpriced. O! go watch tackle advisor on UA-cam. The reel wars or. Favorite vs shishimo vs kastking. He breaks them all down and puts them all back together but all mix match makes them all with sharing their parts.
I was finally able to make my first jump into upper mid range equipment earlier this year and it’s made a world of difference in my fishing. As a college kid, I don’t have a ton of money to spend on fishing gear but I saved my pennies and did a ton of research until I was able to make an informed purchase. I now understand why higher end gear is so sought after because it really is a night and day difference in sensitivity, comfort, and just all around fun
i like shimano cause they have very affordable reels and rods and the quality is just good
Satire?
Aj Mekenzy Hell no. Ever fished a Shimano Sienna? Easily the best reel for $30 PERIOD.
@@booya6437 oh yes i love all the sienna line i own most of them
Boo Ya I just got 2 of them
They are the best spinning reel I’ve used for the price
@@booya6437 Shimano sienna is a really good reel. I own the sienna 4000 and sienna 2500. With the 4000 it was a really good experience right from the get-go. With the 2500 I had to go through three of them to find a good one. I kept getting all the lemons at first. Very smooth fishing reel. The bail is like butter.
Wanting to get into baitcasting reels I had to go with something different. I just recently purchased an Abu Garcia 5601 c4. One of the swedish models. I'm looking to pair that with a medium or medium heavy rod. I've always been a big fan of Shimano. I have four of their spinning rods.
I'm more than likely go with the Shimano for the Abu Garcia reel. I find that I like the cheaper stuff better. They just work for me.
I started 3 years ago with Dick's Diawa Samurai combos, 2 for $35. It was all I used for 2 years, and I caught plenty of fish. Now I understand a little more about the action and what helps with certain baits, I have 10 new mid range combos this year, and it has made fishing even more enjoyable. Even caught my first 7 pounder!
Awesome video that needed to be done!!! Love your channel, love your work so keep it up. Tight lines boys!
This is such good advice, because you aren't just picking something up and trying it, you speaking from experience and giving pros and cons to all, thank you!
my goal is to have a combo for every scenario with baits tied on and tuned ready to go.
Me too and it is easier to do so being divorced.
6 rods and counting with a black max baitcaster among them, looking for another baitcaster that slings lures better than the Black Max....... Digesting what Matt and others are saying.
I have a small Telescopic Rod with a Daiwa Spinning reel, 15lb Braid/6lb diamater. I call it my Recon Rod. Keep it in the car wherever I go just in case an emergency fishing spot comes up.
Because I use it more often, this rig has become one of my favorite setups ever in history.
I caught a lot of Bass on a $16 Dock Demon LoL
Awesomeness 😎
Quantum Pulse Bait caster reel 6 to 6 ratio and a Ugly Stick medium heavy. 12 pd mono low vis green. Cheap on both ends. Senko green pumpkin Texas rigged. My favorite! See ya! At Lake's. SHAWN
I'm so glad someone finally took the time to explain this. Thanks
This video really helped. I’ve always ran “okay gear” (50$ rod 50$ reel) and I’ve done great with it. No complaints. But I think I want to take a step up and try out 100$-200$ reels and 100$-200$ rods. Been on the fence about it all fishing season this year. And I think I’m going to take the plunge lol. I feel like that price range is where you’re getting the best bang for the buck and not going broke.
$100-$150 rods and reels. That's where its at.
I get what my budget allows most of my stuff is pretty cheap I have a couple $200 combos but that top of the budget for me and I’m perfectly fine with that, I just wanna fish I don’t need the best of the best, if I am fortunate enough some day to have the extra money I can spend on a high end combo maybe I will but until then I’ll enjoy what I got, I’m not in competition with anybody for the nicest gear, I enjoy y’all videos, y’all always keep it real, haters are gonna hate so 🖕 em!!
My first rod was a bit of bamboo and about 2 meters of line tied to the end, perfect for creeks and off bridges. Caught loads of fish but when i started lure fishing i started real cheap but when i started to go more often i stepped up untill i hit my trophy trout, then i stepped up again to about $350 set up, Ive fished for 35 years now and only just got my first $700 set up. If you love it then why not spend a bit on what you love? Wife costs me a lot more and she never gets used lol...
Love my Zodias rods! Been thinking about trying the Megabass Levante also! Braillist is on my list!
I was down at 11:15 when you said fun and to get away. I’m new to all of this. Literally 3 weeks in but I’ve been a few times and the excitement of reeling one in is euphoric, just chillin on the lake and giving my mind a break is the absolute best part though! I see myself getting hooked, no pun intended, and that’s how I found myself viewing this video. A bit too advance for me right now cause I have zero idea about some of the things your talking about but seems like great info. I’ll get there. Great video. Subscribed for more!!
"I'm always playing with rods! I have such an addiction to 'em." No comment... haha
Kidding. Appreciate the video as always - keep killin' it, Matt!
You did a good job explaining the difference between expensive and cheap gear. I've been fishing for 40 years and I've used a large range of different gear expensive and cheap. I've caught a multitude of fish species wait and size of fish with using cheap gear I have a few Rod that were $200 but to be honest I can fish any body of water using my favorite rod which is the Shakespeare Ugly Stik which is about a 15 to $20 rod with a Shakespeare Durango reel which run about 10 bucks at Walmart and be perfectly happy and catch my limit for the day in fish.
No St. Croix? My heart is broken...
I Broke a St. Croix tournament series rod just by hooking my hook to the keeper. Apparently that is considered "High Sticking" so no warranty coverage :(
They snap pretty damn easy for that price. Broke one in 2 weeks took it back and found out it’s extremely common even though it was rated for an oz. I broke it off a 1/2 oz cast lol I own 14 rods and it’s the only one that ever snapped
Snapped my mojo by falling 😂
@@Pat19997 for what its worth that angle of pull is basically the ultimate high sticking angle. I have one st.croix, a premier 7' medium heavy I've been useing for flipping and frogging for a year, I've put some pretty intense pressure on that blank and that's not even one of their high end rods.
Hi I'm not a Bass fisherman, I fish big jerk baits for Pike on Westin rods.Your right an expensive rod gives more than it takes.I would like to say that you're sure helping me get through this lock down period over here in the U.K .
@23:30 Matt finally admits he has a problem!! This is the first step to recovery Matt, were here to help :)
Bwahahahahahaha! No doubt!
I hope my wife understands 🤩
I am 61 year's old I've been fishing for 53 years and i love bass fishing i am like a little kid and what you said is COMPLETE THREW I EXPERIENCED IT. Thank you for the video and it was nice that you came up in the Midwest we do have some great smallmouth fishing up north....
Great video. I switched over to all Lews this past summer and have had great results. Just wondering what your opinion of Lews is.
I just did that this past winter. Not everything. But, nearly everything. I really like the rods with the American Tackle Microwave guides. And nearly every reel is now Lew's. I had Shimano reels on most of my rods. Junk. Will never buy another Shimano.
Great Job Matt. Tough subject for sure and glad I have someone like you to speak from xp truthfully. I think its worth noting that one can look at many different fields of "work" and find that the most experienced and best at what they do will all say something similar with "The equipment becomes part of me while I am....". Musicians, Fine artists, surgeons, crane operators...ect will make reference to a quality of effortlessness which only comes from tons of time and effort to learn. Hearing you verbalize this confirms what I had already known about you and that is that you are a very good fisherman. I can now make wise decisions after listening to your insights. I respect your advice and experience. Played guitar for over 30 years and yes what you say speaks volumes. I and many others appreciate your time to make a difference. Thanks Matt.
It's important to keep in mind that expensive equipment isn't going to MAKE you a good fisherman. Just slightly better. These guys could catch bass on the cheapest equipment I own. I fish with some people who use budget gear and will 100% of the time outfish others with us who use expensive gear
i remember back when i was a boy we tied a hook and line unto a tree branch and caught 10pound fish while we were playing around. i laugh when i see people now with 1000$ of equipment and a suitcase full of lures cant even catch anything while i am going home because there is no more space in my ice box because its full of fish.
fishing has become a rich people hobby. before it was poor people that fished because it was "free" meat. up until now i always dug for my own worm, i was about to buy worms for the first time and they were 8$ for 12worms at the store. i cannot believe it.
As J Waller said it, when you're good, fish comes to you, fish wants you! So the equipment quality will help but, the experience, timing, right bait, location, will make fish jumping right on your plate! Fried lol
I dont have 20 dollers.of gear I just find it all then fix it
recently bought a Loomis GLX 853c along with my Chronarch MGL, and it's just a pleasure fishing with such an insane quality, light , firm, and sensitive rod. Love how it plays fish and feels in my hands. My kistler and Expride rods are a 2nd close at a lower price point but Loomis is a pleasure still, but i spent years of fishing everything from ugly sticks, berkley, shakespeare, through, quantum, 13 fishing, Mojo's, Duckett and many others. There is a difference if you know what you are looking at total quality rod, so easy to cast. I was just thinking about this tonight while thowing a texas rig craw and how easy it was, if i could have one rod for me, it's a GLX 853c. Never thought i would say that until i got one.
I have a $40 rod and reel from Walmart. It works for me and I have fun
Thank you for the video. I've fished for years and really never paid attention nor cared to spend too much on a combo. The most I've spent on a combo has probably been $60-$70. I'm a seasonal and I've been curious about what I would really be spending more money on with more expensive setups.
No talk about the guide quality? No love for St Croix? Love the channel, keep up the great work guys!
I don't like the balance on st croixs but my 610 m legend tourny destroys my 610m shimano expride in sensitivity and build quality. After playing with different brands I think im sticking with st croix from here on out.
He said he was doing stand out rods and that he didn't bring every one out. He has a few I think for cranks.
Yes they did recommend the bass x paired with a slx for a good budget or mid range setup in a previous video.
Knowing what the bait is bumpin into, comes with higher end stuff. Even with mono or floro I can tell between small rocks and gravel, boulders or logs, muck, sand and cheese. It helps me choose what I think I should throw.
Picked up a dobyns for my swimbait rod and glad I did!
Great choice
I got a fury series jerkbait rod and love it
That was a real video. Just enjoy being out there who cares what you fish with. I'm impressed by TB they are real guys with real opinions and advice. Thank you Matt and Tim for all you guys share with us so apperciative. I also like that they aren't sponsored to share/advertise gear they are sponsored by. It speaks volumes that they only want you to enjoy your fishing experience. Thanks Matt and Tim
" The best combo for bass"?
"The one you have in your hand".
Good video. Thanks!
After years of fishing with only hand-me-down "mis-matched" poles and reels (spinners, I hate spin-casters and have never used a bait caster) I just yesterday picked up my first brand new rig. Ultralight rod-reel combo from Gander Mountain, their store brand: Sakana.
Was too exhausted yesterday to go out after getting home, so very much looking forward to going out to check it out today, very very soon here. I put 4 lb mono on it, 5 ft 6 in graphite rod. 60 dollar combo. Feels SO nice. Just futzing with it in my house I can totally feel the difference between this and my other "mismatch" rods and reels. ... Now I want more new rods LOL. (and actually need to replace the reel I use for braided line)
I'd like to hear more about recommendations in the sub $100 combo range.
My most expensive combination is a Pflueger patriarch xt on a St. Croix bass mojo medium fast.
Love my mojo rods!
Nice rig! That's nearly exactly my main setup. I'm using exclusively St. Croix's Mojo Bass and Bass X medium fast spinning rods paired up with Pflueger President size 30 reels. I do have one St. Croix Legend Tournament with the Pflueger Patriarch spinning setup for a "high-end" rig which I only use under certain conditions but the Mojo and Bass X get the most use and perform extremely well for the money.
Thanks again tactical..!!!
This is why I love this channel..
I still don’t see why the channel doesn’t have a million subs...!!
Honest and very intelligent reviews and recommendations.. that everyone could understand and put to use..!!
Thanks again
Wait, ugly stick isn't high end!?! 😂
Haha 😂. I'm a beginner fisherman and I used to think ugly stick was the best fishing combos. Now I am a proud owner of a shimano spinner and a baitcaster combos. 😁
I have a hand-me-down'd 5'6"M Ugly Stik from my uncle that said he bought it like the first or second year they came out; the rod is as old as I am yet still a fantastic smallie slayer and one of the most productive rods I own including banking several trophy size river pike & muskie.
I'd recommend ugly stick to anyone.. I grew up fishing them and sure now I've graduated to fairly expensive but cant beat the classics...
Catfish rods
I was pretty pumped when I found a 50lb halibut rod. I have some nicer rods too, but you really can't beat a care-free day at the lake using a rod you wouldn't cry about breaking (not that they do) 😎
just ran across your content. Nicely done...I've fished spinning for 55yrs and haven't ever felt they couldn't compete with baitcaster reels. Now I love and prefer conventional on the Ocean where casting isn't necessarily the point.one the surf I use both conventional and spinning without a second thought.... unless a lining hardware then. for me it's spinning rigs.
Your emphasis on the pole is dead on point. Yeah we can catch on anything. even a cane pole with a line tied to the end, but for sporting fun a lower quality rod will always leave me feeling I left my game in the locker room.
Still there are reasons to spend more or less on a rod. That's due to the type of fishing you're going after. Old geezer told me once when I was young it's 'horses for courses'
looking forward to watching more of your content
Right hand retrieve on baitcaster, left hand retrieve on spinning. I will never understand
I do left for both
@@jmgarza1288 ME TOO
I thought I was the only one lol. Everyone I know is confused why I only left hand retrieve
I like to set the hook with my dominant hand and retrieve with my left. It's just what I'm used to.
@@jmgarza1288 same
Y'all are the best in the business with reviews. I respect all the time and energy y'all put into a very unbiased opinion on all the gear y'all try out.
Can't say enough about the dobyns fury. I've used both the casting and spinning versions and they are great entry level rods. Can't go wrong with dobyns
Matt, this is the best discussion of rod value and performance I have ever heard. I fish a lot and have a variety or rods from medium to somewhat higher cost rods and really appreciate what you are saying. Great Job.
Can you do same video with reels also please
He’s put out a bunch of those . Look thru their library
I'm just now getting back into bass fishing and I've bought 2 Abu Garcia Vendetta's and I'm loving them. They're only ~$80 or so but they seem to be well built and fairly sensitive for the price point. However, my favorite feature is the bait holder haha! It's literally perfect for any type of lure I'm using.
If you start spending any more than that on a rod you're spending more than you're getting in returns.
That is a great reel and rod combo.
I still keep one on my boat.
I have moved on to a few high end ones as well.
I know everyone can't afford them. I will only have two in my life. But that was my decision with my money. No complaints from me.
Enjoy what you have and what makes you happy.
It is after all. Your life. Fish on my friend.
P.s ... with my expensive gear .. if I’m not catching bass .. at least i
get to enjoy the moments with my high end feel good gear & tackle
High end gear usually has better warranties. My friend has broken a tip on a NRX, and Loomis sent him a new one.
@@robertrodriguez4587 slightly true. You can send your broken rod in and get a replacement. I broke a walmart flueger combo and they swapped it up to a fenwick eagle. I immediately felt the difference which led to dobyns Croix and fitzgeralds. I will never again argue Big brand against low end.
I am definitely a bargain hunter when it comes to rods. I have employed several of your prior ideas on my last 4 rods. Am I glad I did. I fish longer, catch fish that used to get away, and thoroughly enjoy fishing more now than ever. Great info in this video!
12:49 An epic statement Matt. Basically sums up fishing rods for me. An excellent video!
Forgetting about your gear was a perfect analogy. Fishing from the bank there's just too many obstructions to hit with a really expensive rod so I've stayed in the mid range for now. Even then sometimes I worry about hitting things and have even broke a few nice rods. Live and learn.
Been loving the consistency in the length of the recent videos, that 20-30 min mark is perfect.
Gonna sound crazy but when i bank fish ive noticed dropping down even just half a foot on length makes a big difference
The Daiwa arid x is my favorite rod ive ever owned. It has a really nice tip
Prison Mike been considering them for my low end kayak rods. I don’t bring my higher stuff on the river
Best budget rods out there. Perform as good as rods that cost twice as much.
I never really understood the difference between a fast vs slow rod until this video....thank you for more insight
I get my name brands rods and reels second hand less expensive
Plus fishing gear is so personal based it doesn’t matter what the next guy says do you
We swim under docks, find rods and reels that have been resting on the bottom for a couple years
I had been using inexpensive spinning rod combos from Canadian Tire my whole life. Whatever was on sale or cheapest. Had no problem catching fish and I usually only fished for a few hours at a time so fatigue wasn’t an issue, so I never thought of upgrading. After watching this video last year I decided to take a step up to the Shimano SLX rod. I didn’t immediately notice a difference. It wasn’t until I used my old cheap rod again that l noticed the difference. I couldn’t feel a damn thing and it felt bulkier and heavier. Now I love the SLX, it’s so lightweight and sensitive. I feel like I can feel every little nibble, can usually guess the size and species of fish right away. In my opinion it’s definitely worth the upgrade when you’re ready and can afford it. However don’t rush, you can still catch plenty of fish on cheaper gear. I found now that I upgraded, I can’t use any of my old rods, they just have no feel to them, but I’m fine with that! Onwards and upwards.
You guys should do a review on the new Poison Adrena and Dobyns Xtasy. Have yet to see an informative one
Pablo Pantaleon Tackle Tour has an Xtasy currently for testing. I don’t know when they received it and with a rod in that range it will usually take them a year to post their review. I have a 755 and it’s a love hate relationship. Love the balance, sensitivity and light weight but it’s not a Mag-Hvy. It fishes like a Med-Hvy and it’s been extremely hard to stick fish when using baits the rod was designed for...deep water jigging. The tip is way too light to drive home a 1/2 or 3/4oz football jig hook in 20’ of water on a medium long cast. Same issue when I tried to use it for heavier Jack Hammers. Love the way it casts and feels but it just won’t drive the hooks home. Almost sold it on the BBC boards until I used it for 3/4 & 1oz Dark Sleepers which we throw a ton on Lake Michigan. I does drive sleeper hooks in no problem and the length and tip keep fish pinned. Also i love it for S-Waver 168’s and Gan Craft Claw 175’s. I do not need a $550 rod for glide baits but it casts those baits a mile, without helicoptering, keeps treble hook fished pinned exceptionally well and since I love it for Dark Sleepers for the bottom sensitivity, I’ve decided to hang onto it. Would I buy another? Maybe one of the Spinning rods, a 722SF maybe but not another caster.
Pablo Pantaleon Pablo I can see your partial reply in my UA-cam messages but can’t find the full message in this thread?
One of your best videos I've watched. Super informative without pushing an agenda at all. Much appreciated Bro.
Question: Is there a reason that you never recommend Lew’s products?
I thought the same thing, my next combo is Lew's crush baitcaster
I have to say, I do have a lews rod I like, however the reels always feel cheap to me. Even the expensive lews just feel cheap in my hand. Just my opinion but I think lews is partly hype. When it comes to reels I stick to the big 3.
I also dont like the round handles they are putting on most of their reels. I prefer the paddles. Lots of people love their lews, that's great. For me, the feel isnt there for the price. I suspect that may be why they never recomend lews but just guessing. Dont get too mad at me guys, I know people love their lews.
I use all Lews reels, but, you gotta get a reel over 100.00. They last, and i'm used to them. They're doing something right, they bought strikeking... but, I don't like the round grips at all
I may buy one and see how it fishes. In all fairness I haven't given them a fair shot. But I do like my lews rod. What lews reel would you suggest?
Some people buy sneakers for $200, while some would never spend more than $60. Thanks for airing out this topic. Feels good to have nice quality things, especially when its for something you really enjoy. To each their own! Thanks Matt, for always being honest.