Fishing School
Rods/Reels
Recommended Equipment
Below are some links to the most popular combos across the Insider Club members for all-purpose inshore setups.
Note: But if you’re just getting started and plan to focus on using live shrimp, then a low price combo from a local tackle shop will be all you need.
How would you know if you’re holding a good rod outside of price? I agree someone who enjoys the sport want a good rod and now seeing a bunch of rods marked between $100.00 to $150.00. Outside of appearance and feeling comfortable and quality most beginners like me won’t even know they are holding a really good rod. Yes, a good rod has many advantages but how do I know? Before I purchase one, I’m definitely going to your store in Winterhaven.
I’ve got several inexpensive retail store combos and they work fine for what I’ve used them for which is mostly fishing from docks with the kids or catching bait offshore. I do think your most popular combo below is a good deal though so I’ll probably think about something like that once I figure out inshore fishing a little better. I can confirm that the cheaper combos are a good place to start.
I’ve been fishing for about 20 years now and started with big box combos, and just recently started buying separate rods & reels. My son is convincing me to spend a little more for decent gear (reasonably priced). You just put it perfectly: put more focus on the rod. I get it now, thanks 🙂
We’re glad to see that you enjoyed this lesson Sara. Yes, I believe you’ll enjoy a custom combo with the nicer rod much more than the big box combos.
I thought there was an in-depth discussion of not needing to spend a bunch of money on gear and tackle. That seems to have disappeared or moved elsewhere. Perhaps getting in the way of the marketing messages?
Hey Rob, I’m a bit confused on why you felt this way after watching the video… I mentioned multiple times that getting an inexpensive combo at a local tackle shop is a great way to save a lot of money.
Note: I don’t recommend getting beginner combos online because the shipping charges often end up being a big percentage of the total order.
Currently, I am utilizing the TFO PRO S Professional Spinning Rod setup, paired with the Daiwa BG MQ Series Spinning Reel – BGMQ3000D-XH, since August 2022. I intend to upgrade two of these rods to the Slam Stick Spinning rods, primarily for personal preference, and anticipate enhanced casting performance.
I actually found a rod in the 50 dollar range that’s pretty decent considering the price tag, it’s a Berkley Lightning 7′ medium heavy one piece. Pair it with a Penn pursuit, and you’re in the 100 to 110 dollar range for the combo. I generally do not buy the Pursuit unless its on sale for 50 bucks which does happen. 60 bucks and I’m thinking about spending a few more dollars on an even better reel.
I have three of the Berkleys, 2 6’6″ with pursuits, and the 7 foot with a spinfisher vi. Looking at aTFO rods to put that spinfisher on though. Kind of silly to have a nearly 200 dollar reel on a 50 dollar rod.
yes getting a good rod does help but my cheep rod is pretty good but the felling is not there like my good rod really starting to figure this stuff figured out weather hasn’t been very nice but this weekend is supposed to be nice can’t wait thanks Luke
Luke what is the name of your favorite reel and is that one of the products that Salt Strong sells?
The Fuego 2500 is my overall favorite in terms of value for inshore fishing with lures. Yes, we have them in stock now: https://fishstrong.com/products/daiwa-fuego-lt?_pos=1&_sid=142856d9a&_ss=r&variant=44304944267438
You are so right on the money Luke. After using the TFO and the Slot Machine, I’m ready to give my old rods to the donation bucket. What a difference. Thanks for your expertise and suggestions.
So glad to see that you’re enjoying these rods!
I like this.
Thanks for making time to post the nice comment Donn!