Can the Slam Stick Rod Keep Up with a $300+ Rod? See the Results!
- By: Pat Ogletree
- on
- Found In: Fishing Tips, Inshore Fishing, *Tackle & Gear, Rods, Weekly Newsletter: 12-01-24
Here at Salt Strong, we believe the proof is in the pudding (or pumpkin pie for those of you still eating it). You can’t rely on price tags and brand names to tell you everything you need to know. “If you want to find the best, you have to test”
So that’s exactly what we’re doing with our new Slam Stick Rod. We believe it to be the best all-around performance and reliable rod under $200, but we want to start putting it to the test.
Up first: CASTING DISTANCE
This is one of the most important factors in choosing a rod. NOTHING will increase your chances of catching fish more than adding distance to your cast. It helps you cover more water faster and reach the fish that are not yet spooked.
So to see how the Slam Stick Rod compares in casting distance, we tested it out against a rod in a similar price range, and a rod at a much HIGHER price point.
The results? See for yourself in the video below.
The Test Setup
We set up a fair and straightforward casting distance test with three rods:
- Slam Stick Rod: Designed for inshore anglers, offering premium features at a reasonable price.
- Star Seagis Rod: A reliable mid-range option priced in the $150–$170 range.
- Star VPR Rod: A high-end rod priced over $300, built for top-tier performance.
Each rod used the same reel, line, and lure to ensure consistent testing conditions. With identical specs in length, power, and action, the only difference was the rod itself.
The Results
The Slam Stick held its own!
- It matched the casting distance of the $300+ Star VPR Rod.
- It outperformed the Star Seagis Rod, which is in a similar price range.
Why did the Slam Stick shine? Its high-modulus carbon fiber blank and optimized guide spacing allow for smoother line flow, resulting in impressive distance and pinpoint accuracy.
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Great video! I ordered one of these before Thanksgiving to replace a broken TFO. I can’t for it to arrive and put it to the test. If it’s anything like my slot machine rod, it will be a winner.
I’m sure you will like it!
Let’s get more baitcast rods don’t live in Florida
We will be introducing more to the shop page but I wouldn’t just use one or the other. Each has their purpose, I use both on every trip I make just about
If casting distance is the most important factor, I suggest you try a rod with a composite blank. The fiberglass help it load and may increase the distance. A very cheap rod, perhaps a berkley AMP, may out cast these more expensive rods.
Also, I would assume that you are better than average at casting. Maybe you could ask a member who is an average caster to participate.
Appreciate you watching Dennis!
There’s a lot more to it than just the blank, the number of guides, their size and spacing plays a big role too. I don’t have any entry level rods to try but I would be curious to hear if someone has done that before.
Just like I said to Luke in his new report about saltstrongs 3 main choices in spinning rods I ALWAYS stick to what works and for about a decade now I fell in love with st croix rods to me there slogan is not just a catchy phrase but had hold true to me ever since buying and using there rods “best rods on planet earth” and I know you all at daltstrong disagree with me because your trying to promote your slam sticks, and slot machine, and tfo rods but thats your opinion and I have mine just like alot of saltstrongs lures while they do work great saying they are the best is definatly not in my opinion I have used many other brands long before saltstrong was even a club let alone started selling there own brand of lures but obviously in todays world any buissness is going to recommend there brands more then others because obviously they are in the market to make money and even though saltstrong says that they don’t affiliate with certain lure or product manufacturers they certainly favor there own tackle and selection and thats fine but that never changes my mind because everyone fishes differently and what works for some very seldom works as well for all enough said
I have no issue with anyone finding what works for them and sticking with it. Finding equipment that works for your exact needs is a long and tedious process and when you do, the search is over. I don’t blame you for sticking with what you have.
Pat what length rod you recommend 7’ or 7’6” for a rod?
I answer my own question on the Slam it 7’6″.
It only comes in the 7’6″ as you found. Most inshore applications, that’s the best size
I recently viewed this video and it further solidifies my decision to purchase a Slam Stick Rod, Pat.
You won’t regret it, it’s a nice rod!
Nice review. Just ordered the combo! Can’t wait to get it and get on the water! 🎣
Let us know how you like it!
Will definitely be checking out the Slam Stick the next time I need a new rod!
I’ve been using it a lot lately, it’s a great rod for the price point
Great video test. Thanks Pat.
Thanks Bobby!
Thanks for the test, Pat! Would’ve liked to have seen the Slot Machine rod included so that it’s put to a comparative test too. Might be helpful to do 5 for each one, and then reverse the order for the last 5 casts.
I would like to put the PS, Slam Stick and Slot Machine to the test to se how each compares to the other. I’m intrigued by the order reversal, what variable do you think that would eliminate?
Casting 10 with the first rod, and then moving to cast 10 with the next rod, and so on, might arguably advantage the test when the tester is freshest. If testing for casting accuracy, that too might be impacted. Not saying the first 10 will out distance or be more accurate than the last ten as that may come down to the individual (i.e., like a relief pitcher stepping in). Varying it helps remove any bias if there is one.
Makes perfect sense. I’ll see if I can remember that for next time.