5 Best Spinning Rods for Bass Fishing in 2023

Hey friends, in this post, I’ll explore the best spinning rod for bass fishing in 2023 because when it comes to fishing equipment, your rod is, without a doubt, the essential piece. While rods are a personal preference, I’ve found the best bass rod is well-made, durable, and provides smooth power and performance to help you catch big fish. I’ve also found that the best bass fishing rods are well-balanced, great for longer casts, and sensitive.

There are a few different types of rods on the market, but a good choice for bass fishing is spinning rods. But how do you distinguish what a good spinning rod is? Are the best rods too expensive? Does a good rod have high sensitivity? You don’t want to buy a bad-quality spinning rod, do you? 

We have also thrown in a handy buyer’s guide, helping you navigate the world of fishing rods and find the rod that best suits you (see the best salmon and steelhead fishing rods here) and your fishing needs. After browsing here, you may also be interested in the best spinning reel under $100.

OUR TOP 3 PICKS

PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank.
  • Super Smooth Power.
  • Travel Friendly.
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  • KastFlex IM6 Graphite Blanks.
  • Golf Style SuperPolymer Handle.
  • Stainless Steel Guides w/Zirconium Oxide Rings.
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  • Fenwick custom ergonomic reel seat.
  • Premium grade cork handles.
  • Stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts.
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Cadence Spinning Rod

Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods | 30 Ton Carbon | Fuji Reel Seat |...

Fighting off the competition for the top spot today is Cadence’s Spinning Rod! The affordable rod is available in a range of sizes and one or two-piece options, allowing you to purchase the rod that best suits your needs. 

The rods are of the highest quality, using 30-ton carbon, SiC guides with stainless steel frames, a Fuji seat reel, and a carbon veil on the blank, delivering incredible quality and durability. 

Teamed with a carbon split grip and cork full grip, you get comfort and durability without needing to compromise on price! The choice between two grips allows you to customize the rod to suit your needs each day, a level of versatility we rarely see. 

Some customers reported issues with the handle, though. They found it narrower than other rods on the market, making it uncomfortable to use during long fishing periods. Few customers reported the problem, but it is worth keeping in mind when making your purchase. 

The high-quality steel guide frames deliver durability and reduce friction for a smooth and enjoyable fishing experience. The frames also work to avoid the line sticking to the guides and increase the rod’s sensitivity. 

You will be able to feel the bull and bite across the whole rod to deliver an exciting experience where the vibrations transfer down to your hand without compromising the rod’s performance. 

The two-piece rod is exceptionally travel-friendly, allowing you to try out new fishing locations without any issues!  The rod is easy to assemble and break down, providing quick and easy access to new places. Simply pop your rod in the trunk and see some new fishing rods! 

If you seek a high-quality rod with indestructible use and smooth power that will leave you the rival of the fishing community, grab the Cadence rod today!

Pros:

  • Affordable – suitable for a range of budgets 
  • Extremely strong and durable  – ensures years of long-lasting use 
  • Travel-friendly two-piece option – allows for quick assembly and transportation, enabling you to travel with ease
  • Smooth power – high-quality materials reduce friction for an enjoyable and easy experience 
  • Excellent customer service- ensures a risk-free purchase and support when you need it.

Cons:

  • Some customers found the handle narrow and sometimes uncomfortable during extended periods. 
  • Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank.
  • Super Smooth Power.
  • Travel Friendly.
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KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod: Spinning Rod

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods, Spinning Rod 6ft 6in-Medium Heavy - Fast-2pcs

Are you seeking a great quality rod without breaking the bank? Try out KastKing’s spinning rod! At an affordable price, the two-piece spinning rod will deliver fantastic performance for an easy and enjoyable fishing experience.,

The spinning rod features a durable construction too, thanks to the graphite rods, you see the excellent quality that is perfect for fresh or saltwater bass fishing. With stainless steel guides and zirconium oxide rings, you get unbeatable quality without needing to compromise on price or weight. 

The durable guides work to reduce friction to have durable performance for years to come. KastKing’s rod is compatible with fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braided fishing lines, offering great versatility for you to tailor your fishing experience. 

The lightweight rods are easy to handle and comfortable, thanks to the SuperPolymer handle. The split-grip handle is durable and slip-resistant, too, ensuring that you will not lose control of your rod or slip out of your hands during rain. 

KastKing’s rod comes in a range of sizes, too, offering the option of medium or heavy fast rods. These are great options for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Customers praised the quality of the spinning rod, in particular its durability and high-quality materials used. 

Some customers did note that the rods seemed lighter than they expected, advising that you purchase a weight up to what you usually buy. Few customers reported the issue, so you should not experience this, but it is worth mentioning. 

Those seeking a comfortable, slip-resistant, and durable fishing rod can look no further than KastKing’s spinning rod!

Pros: 

  • Affordable – suitable for a range of budgets 
  • Durable construction – ensures long-lasting use, great for freshwater and saltwater fishing. 
  • Lightweight rod – easy to handle when casting and reeling (see our in-depth review of the Abu Garcia Veritas casting rod and reel combos here) making it an excellent choice for beginners 
  • SuperPolymer Handle – provides comfort and slip-resistant use during extended use and poor weather conditions.
  • Range of lengths – choose the medium or heavy rod that suits your fishing needs. 

Con: 

  • Some customers found the rod lighter than expected, which caused issues with heavier lures.
  • KastFlex IM6 Graphite Blanks.
  • Golf Style SuperPolymer Handle.
  • Stainless Steel Guides w/Zirconium Oxide Rings.
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Fenwick HMG Spinning Fishing Rod

Fenwick HMG Spinning Fishing Rod

For those seeking an excellent spinning rod with a fantastic reputation, then Fenwick’s spinning fishing rod is the one for you! The reasonably priced rod sits at the top of the price point but is a fine choice for various budgets. 

Fenwick’s rod is available as a single or two-piece rod and a range of sizes, allowing you to tailor the rod to your needs! Although there is a range of sizes, the quality of the rod remains the same. The blanks are carbon bound and feature carbon thread to create strength and durability, providing years of use and consistent performance.

Teamed with Fuji guides that feature stainless steel pressed frames, you get quality and durability that is virtually unrivaled. Despite these high-quality materials, Fenwick’s rod is lightweight and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for beginners. 

Some customers noted that the deep and wide reel seat provided was incompatible with some older reel models, especially the Shimano sedona and sahara spinning reels. The lack of compatibility was not an issue for everyone, but you might need to purchase a new reel when purchasing the rod. 

You also get an impressive lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind that should anything happen to your rod, you are protected! 

The cork handle provides a comfortable grip that customers love. They found the rod extremely easy to handle without any discomfort during extended use. They praised the overall quality of the rod and the excellent sensitivity throughout the entire rod. 

The sensitivity allows the bite to be felt across the whole rod, providing fun and easy use. If you seek a lightweight and easy-to-use spinning rod and aren’t bothered by some compatibility issues, then it’s the Fenwick spinning rod for you!

Pros: 

  • Lightweight and strong – provides a rod that is easy to handle and durable, ensuring years of use.
  • Good sensitivity – allows you to sense the bite through the whole rod for easy and fun use.
  • Soft cork handle – provides comfortable use and grip for extended fishing periods.
  • It is reasonably priced – suitable for a range of budgets.
  • Multiple sizes available  – you can select the rod size and number of pieces that suit your needs.

Con: 

  • Some compatibility issues with older reel models 

  • Fenwick custom ergonomic reel seat.
  • Premium grade cork handles.
  • Stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts.
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Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod

Ugly Stik 5’6” Elite Spinning Rod, Two Piece Spinning Rod, 4-8lb Line...

After a reasonably priced spinning rod that is durable too? Ugly Stik’s Elite spinning rod (also learn about the differences between the Ugly Stik GX2 vs Elite rods) can end your search! The spinning rod is sure to suit a range of budgets thanks to its reasonable price. However, the price does change depending on the size of the rod. 

You get a good range of sizes available with the fishing rod (learn about the best swimbait rods here), allowing you to find the size and power that suits your needs. No matter the size, though, you won’t have to compromise on quality. The spinning rods feature a whopping 35% more graphite than other rods and brands to deliver exceptional strength and durability. 

With this strength comes unwavering durability; the blank is virtually indestructible, ensuring years of problem-free use! Combined with a clear tip design, you get fantastic responsiveness,  allowing you to feel every bite and pull while you hunt for your catch of the day. 

The stainless steel guides reduce friction and prevent the reel from popping out during use and storage. You will have a smooth experience guaranteed!  

The one-piece rod features a cork handle that delivers a comfortable grip that is great for extended use. You won’t need to worry when using the spinning rod either, as it comes with a 6-year eyelet warranty and a one-year warranty on the whole rod. You can use your rod knowing that should anything go wrong, you are protected! 

Customers enjoyed the comfortable hold and superior materials used for excellent durability. However, a few customers noted that they could not fit certain reel types to the rod and needed to make adjustments to do so. Few customers reported the problem, but it is worth considering before making your purchase.

If you are after a durable and comfortable spinning rod, why not give Ugly Stik a whirl?

Pros: 

  • It is reasonably priced – suitable for a range of budgets depending on the size. 
  • Range of sizes – you are sure to find the size that suits your needs. 
  • Durable build – high-quality construction ensures long-lasting use of your fishing rod. 
  • Comfortable cork handle – is excellent for extended fishing periods and is easy to handle 
  • Stainless steel guides – provide durability and eliminate pop-outs for easy and worry-free use of your rod.

Con: 

  • Some customers had issues with fitting the different reel types to the handle without adjustments being made. 
  • Ugly Stik 5’6” Elite Spinning Rod.
  • 4-8lb Line Rating, Light Power, Fast Action.
  • Durable Construction.
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Shimano Teramar Southeast Spinning Fishing Rod

Shimano Fishing Teramar Se 70 M SPN Saltwater Inshore Spinning [TMS70M]

Completing our recommendations today is Shimano’s spinning fishing rod. Shimano is known for offering some of the most powerful and fast action spinning rods on the market, and today’s offering is no exception. 

The rod features incredible durability thanks to the T-Glass material used at the rod’s core and is covered in graphite to create a rod that will stand the test of time! The blanks can handle the strength of a fighting bass and reel it in with ease.

Customers praised its comfortable cork handle, finding it easy to hold for hours without any pain! Teamed with the  Fuji O Guides and reel seats, you get fantastic quality and comfort hard to beat!

The strength of the spinning rod also allows you to move outside of bass fishing and use techniques such as trolling if you want, making it incredibly versatile! It can also be used with a range of lure types, increasing the rod’s diversity, an excellent choice for those who want to do more than bass fishing.

Some customers found the butt to be quite heavy and that when using the rod for extended periods, it caused stress on their forearms. Few customers reported the problem, but it is worth mentioning, especially if you are looking for a rod you can use for prolonged periods. 

If you seek a premium spinning rod that has fantastic durability and a sturdy weight in your hand, look no further than Shimano’s rod today!

Pros: 

  • Versatile – suitable for a range of lure types, making it great for a range of users.
  • Durable – will provide long-lasting use that’s great for trolling too.
  • Cork handle – offers fantastic comforts for users even when used for extended periods.
  • Incredibly strong – great for heavy loads or fighting with the bass.

Con: 

  • The heavy butt can put stress on your arms during extended use.
  • Versatile.
  • Durable.
  • Cork handle.
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Best Spinning Rod for Bass Fishing Buying Guide

Not too sure what you need from a spinning rod for bass fishing? Let us show you the way and guide you through the murky waters of bass fishing!

Which rod? Baitcasting vs. spinning rods: 

The first, and most important factor to consider, is the type of rod. From the article title, you can see it’s all about spinning rods here, but that doesn’t mean we won’t give a shout-out to the baitcasting rods. After all, they might be the better option for someone out there! 

To be certain, baitcasting and spinning rods have their advantages and disadvantage, and we must consider these when purchasing our new fishing rods, especially for beginner anglers. 

Baitcasting rods offer more precision and control, but they are let down by being harder to get to grips with, especially for newbie fishers! On the other hand, spinning rods are easier to use thanks to their effortless casting mechanism but offer more long-term issues. 

Both rods will successfully bull in bass or other fish in terms of performance, although large ocean game fish might be too much for the rods. They are also popular choices by banks, boats, and riversides. 

Some anglers and professional fishers view spinning rods as less powerful and therefore unsuitable for bass fishing, but it is an unfair stigma and one we are keen to break! 

The choice of which rod will be a personal one and ultimately will come down to the comfort and feel of the rod. When selecting your rod, be sure it is one you are comfortable using. 

bass fishing with the best spinning rods

What length rod should I use?

The length of your rod is another essential factor to consider when making your purchase. There is a great deal of variety in the length of spinning rods, ranging anywhere from 6-12 feet! 

When considering the rod length, it’s important to remember that longer rods are usually more challenging to use. They are trickier to cast and retrieve but also hard to transport to various locations. These are factors that will usually influence a beginner’s decision. 

For more seasonal anglers, a longer rod is often preferred. The main reason for this the longer the rod is, the greater the casting distance will be. In situations where other bass anglers, such as tournaments, this extended length is not always preferred. 

Although a longer length is advantageous, shorter rods are easier to control. Having a rod that is easy to control is helpful when lure fishing. They are also easier to transport, especially if you have purchased a compact rod; you can try out new spots with minimal fuss. 

Consider the length that would best suit you and your fishing plans when it comes to making your purchase. 

Which handle is the one for you?

The handle is the rod you will be in physical contact with, making it essential that the handle is well-built and comfortable to use for extended periods. You will also want a handle that features some non-slip technology, ensuring that your rod does not fly out of your hand! 

So what should you be looking for in your rod handle? Straight grips are extremely popular and provide comfort for the user. Some anglers believe that a straight grip handle reduces the weight of the rod, making it easier for your wrist to handle. They can sometimes be less accurate, though, when casting.  

You will also still see pistol grip handles on some rods. These will feature a curved downward handle resembling a pistol that can be less comfortable and is considered by many as old-fashioned these days. 

Generally, it is advised that beginners opt for a straight grip handle. Although they have their drawbacks, they are easier to handle and will provide a comfortable grip. Once you have chosen the type of handle that suits you, you will need to select the right handle material for you.

If possible, we recommend heading to an angling store and trying a few different handles to find the feel that is right for you. 

Fishing rod handles are made from three different materials: cork, foam, and composite, with foam being the best option for beginners. Foam handles tend to be light and strong. It is often cheaper than cork and provides excellent durability, and can maintain its shape.  

For those with a larger budget, cork is a great option. It provides a natural handle that is less slip-resistant in the rain than other materials. Cork also offers good levels of elasticity, allowing it to fit in an angler’s hand comfortably. 

Your middle-of-the-road option is composite, which is usually your cheaper option. It is not without its downsides, though. Composite is less sensitive than cork or foam, meaning you can struggle to feel the pull and bite when fishing.  

When deciding which material and handle are the ones for you, consider the comfort of the rod handle and make sure it is something you could comfortably hold for a few hours. 

Before we move on to other areas to consider, it’s worth discussing single versus multi-piece rod handles. Whether the spinning rod handle is a single or multi-piece handle will depend entirely on the manufacturer. Lighter split-grip, or multi-piece handles, can be lighter in weight and customizable but come with a heftier price tag. 

Don’t let the weight of a single-grip handle put you off, though! The difference in weight before the two types is minimal, and there is no difference in performance! Get the handle that best suits you! 

Materials

Spinning rods were traditionally made from bamboo but have been replaced in recent years by fiberglass or graphite. These new materials offer lightweight and durable fishing rods. When discussing the materials of a fishing rod, we are looking at the rod shaft itself, or the blank as it is commonly known. 

When it comes to spinning rods for bass fishing, the material is a vital feature to consider. The material plays a large role in the rod weight rating, impacting its sensitivity and how easy it will be to move around. 

Generally, lighter rods will have enhanced sensitivity that allows you to feel the hook set’s full force into a bass for the first time. It is a feeling we are sure beginner anglers will find thrilling!

We tend to see beginners steer away from heavyweight rods, and it’s not surprising why. Fast fishing and hard fighting are pretty common, and heavier rods are difficult to manage and far more tasking unless, of course, you are Pop Eye! In these cases, a lighter rod will be more forgiving on your body and easier to use. 

So which material should you purchase?  Graphite rods offer slightly better sensitivity than fiberglass, providing more feel of the bite. However, if you want durability, fiberglass is virtually unrivaled! 

Both graphite and fiberglass are popular options, with many anglers simply preferring the material they use most frequently or have more experience with. It can be a good idea to test the materials out at your local angling store to see which feels better in your hand. 

You do have a third option, too, that is worth considering. Composite rods blend the benefits of graphite and fiberglass to create lightweight and easy for beginners to use. Generally, composite rods tend to be cheaper and require less maintenance than their graphite and fiberglass counterparts. 

When selecting your spinning rod for bass fishing, it’s important to remember that a lightweight rod is your best option. Yes, there might not be much technique exploration, but you can be confident that bass is unlikely to break the spinning rod. 

learning to fish with the best spinning rods

How many pieces make the rod?

The number of pieces that a spinning rod has will vary from rod to rod. The parts of a fishing rod do not necessarily relate to the performance of the fishing rod. Instead, the amount of pieces is dictated by the length of the spinning rod and the manufacturer’s performance. We’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of rods based on the number of pieces. 

Multiple-piece rods

As a general rule, the best spinning rods for bass fishing will feature more than one piece. Multi-piece rods are easier to transport; breaking them down into smaller pieces saves space and avoids passengers getting poked by the rod! 

Multi-piece rods often offer better mobility for the angler, allowing you to move around the water, searching for bigger and better fish. Why not try and spring for a better catch? It’s an excellent plus for beginner (see the best spincast rods for beginners by Zebco here) anglers. 

However, multi-piece rods are not without their drawbacks. Some multi-piece rods won’t be as sensitive, as the vibrations will travel down multiple pieces and joints before reaching the angler’s hands. Usually, the difference is negligible when considering the other benefits that the multi-piece rods offer. 

When looking at multi-piece rods, it is best to avoid any rod that features more than four pieces. They will take longer to put together and dismantle by the waterside, adding time to your fishing experience that nobody wants! 

They are usually cheaper than single-piece rods and reliable, making them significant purchases for first-time anglers! 

Single piece rods

Single-piece rods tend to be a more costly purchase to make, but they are not without their positives. Single-piece rods are a popular choice with tournament anglers who praise their durability. At a competition level, they are less likely to fall apart on the cast. It’s worth pointing out that a good quality multi-piece rod will not fall apart either in use. 

Single-piece rods are often more sensitive too. They will feel the pressure and torque more than a rod with several pieces, allowing anglers to feel every movement of the rod. 

When selecting your rod, it is worth considering the number of pieces it comes with and how many you will be comfortable with assembling and dismantling before and after fishing. 

Rod action?

For any beginners in the room, a rod’s action is measured similarly to speed. Fast rods will have a greater bend near the rod’s tip, whereas slower rods bend will be closer to the handle. 

Spinning rods are known for being extremely versatile and offering a wide range of action. Commonly, you see faster rods being popular with bass fishing, attributed to their greater stability. 

Stability is an essential factor to consider when it comes to bass fishing. A slow-action rod won’t suit the fighting that a bass fish can provide when caught. You will need a rod that can handle the power and react quickly. 

That is not to say slow-action rods aren’t worth considering. They are better suited to heavier fighting fish that stay in the water longer, especially if they don’t require sudden jerking movements to bring them in. Slow action rods are popular with the trolling for salmon, for example and for fishermen who fish off the back of a boat. 

Beginners tend to opt for fast action rods; you don’t need to rule out slower ones. For specific lures, slower parabolic rods can be handy, especially when lures are heavier than they look! Anglers who want to feel the full weight of the fish’s fight prefer a slower action rod too!

What about power?

Usually viewed with rod action, rod power is another factor you must consider when purchasing your new rod. Rod power refers to the amount of force needed to bend the rod, creating the curve we know all too well. 

It is worth noting that the curve from rod power is different from the curve of rod action. We often hear the term ‘taper’; it refers to the rod’s backbone that helps drive the hook into the fish. The rod’s power is referred to with three terms: light, medium, and heavy power rods. These three types are the most popular on the market too. 

When looking for your spinning rod, look for a rod that’s power is inversely proportional to its action. For example, the less action a rod has, the more power it usually needs to hook the fish after it bites. 

We usually see beginners opting for a medium power rod. They tend to feature an even placement of taper to action, which is advantageous and provides easy use that beginners will enjoy. A medium power rod usually avoids over or under-bending, allowing you to use the rod easily and understand the reactions of bass fishes. 

It is a good idea to match the power to the lure type as we do with action. A heavier lure will add to the torque of the blank. If that is a preferred way of fishing, then a medium to heavy power rod will be a good option for you. 

When it comes to light-powered rods, they can bend too much to heavier loads, making them difficult to control. When selecting your rod, consider the fishing and the weight of your lures to help decide what power rod you will need. 

Rod Guides

Rod guides are an essential part of your spinning rod, guiding your line from the reel to the tip of the rod. They can also be referred to as eyelets. Rod guides tend to be metallic circular shape guides.

On a spinning rod, the guides will face the ground rather than upwards seen on casting rods. This distinction can be an excellent way to identify between the two rods.

For beginners, pay close attention to the type of guide on the rod, especially those that work to keep the rod and reel together. The main feature of a rod guide is the friction the line creates as it runs through the guides. 

High friction levels will put a significant amount of stress on the rod and line, which can cause issues when reeling in fish and casting out. You can also see durability issues with the line, leading to replacements on time. 

Evenly spaced rod guides along the blank will balance the friction and allow for a smoother unit and fishing experience. On some rods, you will notice the guides reducing in diameter closer towards the tip. Manufacturers do this to balance a load of a bite and place more control on the handle and reel as you bring in your catch. 

Some experienced anglers argue that a rod’s size and weight should prioritize the guides when it comes to purchasing your rod. Generally, that is because the size and weight can reduce line friction more than rod guides too. 

That does not mean you should overlook them, though. You will want to pay attention to the material of the guides; metallic or composite guides will ensure good quality and durability. While plastic guides are available, they tend to be flimsy in construction, leading to replacements that will cost you more in the long term. 

Location, location, location

It’s true when it comes to purchasing a home, and it’s true when it comes to fishing. You will need to consider the location of where you fish. Where you regularly fish or any planned fishing locations should influence the rod you choose to purchase. 

When it comes to bass fishing, you will already be restricted to rivers, lakes, and ponds where we see most bass. Thankfully, spinning rods are built with these locations in mind!

Spinning rods for bass are light to transport and easy to assemble and break down, allowing you to move to new locations with ease. Thanks to the variety of power and action rods seen on the market, you can buy the spinning rod that suits the location you fish in the most. 

For example, if you fish on a large and busy part of water, you will need a fast action rod for a heavy crankbait cast. As well as how busy the water is, you will need to consider how large and deep the water is. These factors will implicate your choice of a lure, leaving you to decide whether a light and short length rod or a more heavy-duty rod will do the job at hand. 

How heavy?

When purchasing your new spinning rod, you will also need to consider the weight of the rod. Lightweight rods are easy to maneuver and are comfortable for extended use but aren’t always the best option. 

Heavier rods can sometimes be sturdier and provide more excellent resistance to fighting bass. However, they can be harder to travel with and challenging to hold, especially over longer. 

It is good to try some out at an angler shop and see what feels comfortable for you when deciding on the weight.

Summary of the Best Spinning Rod for Bass Fishing in 2023

As you can see, there are plenty of fantastic options in 2023 for your new spinning rod for bass fishing. You will also need to consider many factors to ensure that you buy the best rod that suits your needs! Now that you understand the different rod types, check out the differences between baitcasting and spinning reels.

There is also a lot to learn about spinning reels.  At Rogue Rods, we’ve covered the parts of a spinning reel, spinning reel sizes, and the best ultralight spinning reels.

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