Catching fish is, indeed, an exciting undertaking. However, it requires proper planning and making sure you have the right fishing gear. There are hundreds of baitcaster combos and other pieces of fishing equipment in the market, and that means picking the right one can be quite a task. Whether it’s the rod or reel, the material, construction, looks, or the overall design, there is a broad range of factors to consider when choosing the best baitcaster combo under 100 for fishing adventures.
If you are among the anglers who love excellent quality products, this in-depth and unbiased review of the best baitcaster combo under 100 will offer you insights and options to choose from. Pay special attention to the products’ unique features, pros, and cons.
Best combo under 100 in 2023: A comparison chart
So, what are the best baitcasting combos out there? While there is a long table of answers, we have compiled a chart that compares the top 10 options. The chart highlights the overall rating of each product, special features, and a link to the product’s price details. This will make it easier for you to perform a comparison.
| Ranking | Name | Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KastKing Cadet Casting Combos | 6 Feet 6 Inches | 1.6 pounds |
| 2 | Tailored Tackle Bass Fishing Baitcasting Combo | 7 Feet | 1.6 pounds |
| 3 | Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcast Low Profile Reel | 7 Feet | 0.95 pounds |
| 4 | Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo | 6 Feet 6 inches | 1 pounds |
| 5 | Ugly Stik GX2 Baitcasting Combo | 6 Feet 6 inches | 0.9 pounds |
| 6 | Sougayilang Fishing Combos Full Kits | 7 Feet | 2.3 pounds |
| 7 | Zebco Baitcast Combo | 6 Feet 6 inches | 0.98 pounds |
| 8 | Lews Fishing Laser MG Speed Spool Series Reel | – | 0.45 pounds |
| 9 | Sougayilang Fishing Rod | 5 Feet 9 inches | 0.46 pounds |
| 10 | Sougayilang Speed Bass Fishing Rods | 5 Feet 9 inches | – |
1. KastKing Cadet Casting Combos
The KastKing Cadet Reel and Rod Combo is a package aimed at meeting the unique needs of a casual recreational angler who needs the right fishing rod and reel matchup at a favorable price point. The light and sensitive IM6 graphite blanks are designed to be easy to cast while offering enough power for many bass fishing applications.
Even though this fishing rod and reel combo was created to the cheapest of all casting combos, it is equipped with high-quality components. It comes with high-performance guides and reel seats, its 2 pc rod blank design makes it easy to pack and store, and has both right hand and left hand retrieve.
Pros
- The reel features facilitate smooth casts and retrieve
- The product is affordable
- The rod is sensitive and lightweight
Cons
- It’s created for bass fishing and not any other fish species.
2. Tailored Tackle Fishing Rod
Just as the name suggests, this baitcaster offers exceptional performance. It is ideal for both beginner baitcasters and all weekend anglers who intend to start out with the best bass fishing gear. It is tailored for catching the famous largemouth bass fish of varying sizes. The overall length and sensitivity of its rod are designed with the large bass fish in mind.
The 7 feet long (medium-heavy) reel is explicitly created for catching the largemouth bass. It features a highly sensitive tip for fast action. The two-piece rod is easier to pack in your bag and probably carry around. This baitcaster combo’s reel has a 6.3:1 gear ratio and about 7 ball-bearing system facilitates a smooth and somewhat fast retrieve.
Pros
- The rod is a somewhat heavy-duty piece
- Both the reel and the rod are made of durable materials
- The reel is smooth and specially made for catching largemouth bass fish
Cons
- There’s no model for left-handed people
- It’s tailored for largemouth bass only
3. Abu Garcia Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo
Generally, catching and lifting fish from the water requires a reliable, strong, lightweight, and angle fishing rod. The Abu Garcia Baitcasting Rod and Baitcasting Reel Combo perfectly. It features super bearings – four bearings made of stainless steel and an extra roller bearing. This ball-bearing system jointly confers effortless retrieve and seamless operations.
The graphite fishing rod is lightweight and reliable. That means you no longer need to confront heavy drag when retrieving your catch. The rod bends into and out of water seamlessly for efficient operation and many hours of fishing adventure.
Pros
- Exudes maximum power
- Offers supple feel and excellent responsiveness
- It’s sleek and lightweight
- Durable and reliable
Cons
- Has an un-adjustable length
- It’s not easy to carry it around
4. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcasting Combo
For those who have spent some time angling, they are probably familiar with the brand name Ugly Stik. The company has been in business for more than a century and has been creating fishing gear for anglers of varying skill levels around the globe.
The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Baitcasting Combo is somewhat an improvement on the company’s previous reel/rod – the GX2. Its rod is creatively crafted with fiberglass and graphite composite and has about 35% more graphite than the previous options. This offers more sensitivity and many hours of hunting small fish as the rod is lightweight.
Pros
- It is well-balanced
- The baitcaster combo is flexible
- Made of durable materials
Cons
- It can difficult to cast especially for beginners
- The rod outshines the reel
- It’s prone to backlash
5. Ugly Stik GX2 Baitcasting Combo
Another common pick among most anglers of different skill levels and fishing preferences is the Ugly Stik GX2 Baitcasting Combo. It features 6-feet long fishing with different power options. It is made of a highly sensitive and durable combination of fiberglass and graphite. The graphite component boosts the rod’s sensitivity to detect even the minor fish bites. On the other hand, the fiberglass improves the product’s strength – it can stand up to a tough fight.
The reel is made of graphite to boost its sensitivity. Besides, it has a single ball-bearing with a durable graphite spool, pre-loaded with a 12-pound line. The double paddled handlers are made of aluminum additional strength and durability.
Pros
- The rod is very sensitive
- It’s made of durable materials
- Excellent for both beginners and experienced anglers
Cons
- The reel’s line isn’t of excellent quality
- The foam grips might reduce sensitivity
- Requires regular lubrication
6. Sougayilang Baitcasting Rod with Reel Combos
Sougayilang Baitcasting Rod with Reel Combo is a medium-action piece of fishing equipment that can be used for fishing trout, salmon, and bass. The kit is equipped with fishing accessories such as a fishing reel, rod, about 110 yards of fishing line, a carrier bag, fishing lures, and other fishing accessories to make your fishing adventures memorable.
It is a flexible combo varying rod sizes – 6.9 feet, 5.9 feet, and 7.9 feet. The fishing rod is made of a durable, highly sensitive, and strong carbon fiber blank. This two-piece rod can easily be packed for convenience and portability.
Pros
- It is an excellently-performing baitcasting reel
- A spare tip is available
- Has a two-piece rod for convenience and portability
- The rod is very sensitive
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a fishing line
- It is quite intricate to an average angler
7. Zebco Baitcast Combo
Even with an excellent drag system and outstanding construction, this Zebco Baitcast Combo still comes at a pocket-friendly price. It is a reliable piece of fishing equipment for anglers on a budget and needs an excellent baitcasting combo. The graphite composite blank offers reliable strength and sensitivity for an exciting fishing experience.
The reel is a combination that features three ball-bearings, made of graphite, and has an aluminum spool for additional sensitivity. Besides, it comes with a well-thought-out drag system with a disk drag system, an anti-reverse clutch, and high-quality magnetic casting control.
Pros
- It is made of a durable material
- Highly sensitive
- Offers great value
Cons
- The cork handles are not for everyone
- It is a little bit stiff
8. Lews Fishing Laser MG Speed Spool Series Reel
This baitcasting combo is an incredible value for that price. It has a one-piece, medium-heavy fishing rod in varying length – 6.6 feet, 6.10 feet, and 7 feet. The fishing rod blank is made of heavy-duty graphite for extra sensitivity. It includes high-quality stainless steel guides with inserts and alight weighted dual-grip EVA foam handle.
The reel has eight ball-bearings and a ‘Rulon’ drag (heavy-duty) system that provides a stopping power of about 15 pounds.
Pros
- Has a great balance
- Lightweight
- The rod is highly sensitive
Cons
- It is a one-piece rod design, and that means it can be difficult to pack and carry around
9. Sougayilang Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
This Sougayilang Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is designed to fit ergonomics, excellently fit into your palm and minimize fatigue, and offer many hours of exciting fishing experience. It features 11+1 ball-bearings that enhance the overall performance of the reel and minimize the creaking gap noise. The base is made of lightweight materials that let anglers quickly perceive the bait’s action.
Pros
- Perfect for freshwater trout, bass, and salmon fishing
- Can be used in lakes, rivers, reservoirs, inshore fishing and pond fishing
- It is an ideal gift for a loved one
Cons
- It’s intricate for an average user
10. Sougayilang Speed Bass Fishing Rods
This masterpiece features a compact, lightweight construction, making it highly portable and ideal for travelers. It is fitted with a convenient handle that makes it comfortable for use. Generally, this baitcasting combo is created to deliver incredible power.
Pros
- 4-piece design with perfect bass
- Lightweight
- Potable
- The stainless steel guide ring is associated with higher sensitivity
Cons
- Short-period warranty
A comprehensive baitcasting combo buying guide
A baitcaster is an excellent option for hunting both large and small fish. They’re designed to handle heavy and light weighted fishing lines. To get the best fishing experience, you must choose the right pieces of fishing equipment. Here is what you should consider when choosing a baitcasting combo.
Weight
Make sure the rod must be as light as possible. After all, you don’t want to confront excessive weight and drag. Studies reveal that a light fishing rod is easier to lift and maneuver around when fishing. This facilitates efficient operation and better fishing experience.
Material composition
Fishing rods are made of different materials with unique characteristics. These features determine the quality, nature, and durability of a specific rod. Besides, they have a bearing on the overall efficiency of the entire baitcaster combo. It is recommended to choose rods made of aluminum, stainless steel, and graphite.
Length
It’s best to choose a fishing rod that can reach a far distance. It’s for this reason you may want to get the longest and most reliable rod in the market. If you intend to do pond fishing, choose the length of the rod rhyme with the size of your pond.
Comfort matters
Note that how you feel when holding or using the baitcaster combo matters. Make sure the unit you choose is ergonomically designed to offer maximum comfort. In addition to being lightweight, both the rod and reel must suit your fishing style and preferences.
If you are a beginner and probably not sure of what suits you, a heavy-medium is a great choice. It works perfectly for both beginners and experienced anglers. Choose a rod with a higher gear ratio – ranging from 5:1 to 6.5:1. Also, you may want to talk to an expert who can help understand these aspects better.
Balance
One of the most important things you should consider in any combo is the overall balance. The overall weight of the rod should be perfectly balanced with the total weight of the reel. This will help you make long, smooth casts and offer you an exciting fishing experience.
Conclusion
Now that you understand the basics of baitcasting, hopefully, you will feel more encouraged to take the leap and get the right baitcaster for the better and exciting fishing experience. Though most people still believe that this form of angling is reserved for people with more fishing experience, nearly everyone has to begin from somewhere.