How To Choose The Perfect Inshore Fishing Rod (For Redfish, Trout, Snook & Flounder)

Want to catch more fish and get 20% off of your gear in our tackle shop? Click here to join us in the Insider Club: bit.ly/33xQWd5
To get the link for the rods and to see more videos about choosing a fishing rod, click here: bit.ly/3hfDe6A
For years we thought the reel was the most important piece of fishing gear...
But now we know that the rod is WAY more important than the reel!
Your rod is not only doing most of the work, but it's doing the most important work.
So in this episode, you'll hear about what we look for in a great inshore fishing rod, how the performance of the rod is determined, and our latest discovery in the pursuit of the perfect rod.
You'll also learn about the different components of fishing rods and what our favorite fishing rods are right now.
What do you look for in an inshore fishing rod?
Do you have any feedback on what makes the perfect rod?
Let me know in the comments section of our Fishing Tips page: bit.ly/3hfDe6A

[@frankashby6235]

Fully support your partnership with Mud Hole. I was the z program Lead for PHWFF Knoxville and assisted in ordering components for our vets for building their first fly rod . We are able to step up the performance of their build by working with their staff to creat a custom kit for their Fly Rod 101 Building course.

[@ITigerbaum]

Great info, inside and out! 😉 Full cork for me. Old School grip, medium power, fast taper, micro wave guides, hook clip on top, black, 7’6”-7’0.” My dream rod. Thanks!

[@the45er]

Same exact thing with golf clubs. The shaft impacts the feel and performance more than the head. Kirsten Solheim’s then revolutionary peripherally weighted head was a possible exception. The reel has to have a good working drag, but the rod is where it’s happening!

[@jeffsnowden4189]

I saw the video was an hour and almost didn't watch, but once you guys started I was hooked. Thanks for the great info guys.

[@gofsh123]

All your videos are great! I grew up on the beach in New Jersey fishing and surfing. You two remind of the guys I grew up with. Thanks bruddah. Mark

[@Saltstrong]

Want to catch more fish and get 20% off of your gear in our tackle shop? Click here to join us in the Insider Club: bit.ly/33xQWd5

[@williammarshall4277]

I come from a Spey and single hand fly rod background. I’m getting into the spinning/salt game and I can get over how cheap the really good spinning rods cost. My favorite Spey rod cost me 1200.00. I’m looking 300.00 dollar spinning rods and I’m loving it….my wife loves it too!

[@robertspell4309]

I knew nothing about the differences in rods and pairing with reals. Thank you 😊

[@jelly_fishing]

Great discussion as alwaysv

[@ReelinTension]

I am making the switch soon to all bulls bay banshee rods. I really love the feel and action for my style of fishing.

[@davidquig9794]

Bull Bay Snipers work great FOR ME as well, and you can get split or full butts as you prefer. Good info from SS, but I want to emphasize personal preference.

[@edbranch3239]

Another awesome video! Love the content!

[@RichM0410]

Constantly learning from you guys. Goal is to be a member soon. THANK YOU 👍

[@joepetrauskis7230]

Lots of great information here. the quad info is great. Can I subject a full Demo of everything your discussing for the beginners demonstrating the issues and rod types.

[@agailframe6590]

Love this video! I had no idea what's out there. It's 4 am, here, and you're the best guys to watch, other than actual fishing videos. Thank you.

[@johnedwards8699]

Definitely learn a lot from these vids, thanks guys. I never thoughtfully considered my rod length, speed etc but I do know which rod feels the best in my hand and in the water. I’m going to pay attention to all of that and seek my perfect rod!

[@rkw221]

excellent observations on rod selection. For how I fish there actually are few rods for narrow target uses. I guess I'm just a general fishing kinda guy. I've, not intentionally but because I was young & my behind was broke & spending phone & PG&E bill money on my gear, always sought out rods that just felt right in my hands. I really had no technical knowledge about the nuances you're pointing out. I just went by feel and how previous rods fished for me. Now I did have my general jack-of-all-trades but master of none rod, I had a great Fenwick ultra light 5pc breakdown backpacking rod for fishing Sierra lakes, and then a few surf poles just so I could take friends out fishing the surf. Bought most all used at estate/garage sales/swap meets kind of places save my general go-to rod. Despite my sources I was pretty particular about that whole feel thing as you've described.

[@1pdigit]

This is too funny, I was literally sitting here trying to figure out what rods I need when this notification popped up. I'm BRAND NEW to saltwater fishing and the information I've learned from Salt Strong has been invaluable. I'm wanting to join the SS family but was curious, do you guys have any idea when you're getting some inventory in? I need EVERYTHING and that 20% off would help out a lot! 😁

[@James-qt9dj]

Any good tackle shop can get you set up for the best value you can afford... my advice is spend more to get the lightest rod and reel possible & don’t get a reel that is to big... if you don’t need 500 yards or 40 lbs drag, you can save money and weight to your rod-reel combo. By light I am referring to weight not rod strength... that depends on what you’re after....

[@1pdigit]

@@James-qt9dj Thanks for the advice, I think thats best right now, going light!

[@waltertx.6020]

@1pdigit If you join Salt Strong, and order at the 20% off, if the item is not in stock, they will email you as soon as item is in stock. Tight lines!!!

[@CJDM4]

Just grabbed a Toadfish and a Tsunami Carbon Shield, both 7'6 MH fast. going to put a 3000 Symetre on the Toadfish and a 4000 Sustain on the Shield (its a bit heavier that the toadfish). Heading to Hilton Head in August with the family. Your Videos have been a tremendous help with some of the little things that may make a big difference down there whit limited time.

[@coopercoming8524]

How do you like that toadfish

[@bassiclogic]

I purchased the TFO Pro 7'-6" Medium Fast rod based on Lukes video and recommendation. It's one of my favorite rods.

[@Saltstrong]

It is a great one!

[@heartwormskillcats8357]

Thanks.

[@justinszuch6184]

A great rod is like a fish finder. You can feel if the bottom has rock, sand, weeds. Its like you can see the bottom by feel.

[@justinvogt695]

I think the lack of standardization is a good thing. If a medium power or fast action was the same across manufacturers, there wouldn't really be that much of a reason to choose one company over another. 🤷‍♂️

[@robertveith2255]

I like both split grips and full grips i like a short back end ..

[@austincanning7013]

I use the ugly stik elite its always done good by me

[@ashwilliams93]

I’m still watching the video. But for inshore Snook, Reds, Trout, etc... most of the time I’m throwing a 6’6” Crowder (I live fairly close to the manufacturer) spinning rod, 8-15 pound class, medium/ fast action.

[@rainbosprinkles6548]

I agree, the rod is number 1. The problem with looking at rod vs reel cost the way most do is that the cost vs performance is not linear. Additionally, baitcasters setups need to have much more focus on the reel. What you get for $100 on a rod vs $100 reel is much greater. You can get a great rod for $100. You get an average reel (baitcaster) for the same cost. Understanding that, you can spend $50 on a rod (say diawa Arid series) and get a rod that is comparable to what a $100 reel is.

[@topdog49646]

Have you ever tried a 13 fishing rod the defy 7'6" medium with the fast action tip ?

[@teslarocks7345]

Ugly Stick G2 has caught me plenty of fish and not let me down.

[@wsmith3849]

So can you use the recommended lure weight or lb test to help give you an idea of the correct rod when you’re not sure about medium, medium hvy etc.. ?

[@ericarbo5044]

Long but an long rod. 7.5’- 8’ medium fast an heavy fast. I have a 11’ TFO heavy fast 3-8 an Love it. Now I need the same thing in much lighter tackle. Like up to 2oz ?

[@elroybeauzec4155]

Guys, thanks for your videos. I have a question for Luke. I'm interested to hear your thoughts about the importance and role of line weight rating when selecting a rod.

[@SaltySeaCaptain]

Your line weight shouldn't exceed the rating of your rod if you plan to use drag at or above the correct drag setting. Its so your rod doesn't snap before your line does.

[@lmb25315]

Would love to hear y'alls opionions on the recent update of the red tide restrictions for Redfish, Snook, and Trout!

[@charlesgurnea2004]

Old 18 outfitters hollow point and the best suppressor the best

[@drevil4454]

100% true. I agree. I start with the hook, then the line, then the rod and my last concern is the reel. The tackle is my micronutrients, the rod is my macro nutrients, and the reel is the muscle. You can catch fish without a reel and rod, but you still need line and hooks. You can catch fish with pole, line and hooks but do not necessarily need a reel. difficult to catch with a reel only. I like MH strength with a fast action in the 2.1 to 2.4 meter (Americans you are all confused now, yes?) range.

[@Saltstrong]

The rod is our #1 tool be sure to have that down first!

[@mateygoesfishing]

Wish you guys would make your own rods!

[@davidleeroth9846]

Did I hear that salt strong has a physical store in winter haven fl ?? I would love to go Wanting a bull bay and would like to pick it up

[@jhonatanelias3497]

How about some budget friendly recommendations? So much options

[@comfortablynumb9342]

For me it's a matter of which Ugly Stik is right for the situation. The newer ones are pretty awesome, still very affordable and they're tough. Plus they're easy to find.

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@bongie1632]

Hi Salt Strong. Great video contents, they are really informative speacially for beginners. Can i use my 6'6", max 120g light jigging rod for in shore casting? Will the tip break or anything? Thanks for answering. More videos pls.

[@marvinmurakami8828]

Most jigging rods have stiffer tips. A rod with a medium/medium light/light tip (this describes how fast a rod is) would be able to cast much easier and farther.

[@drkrm]

I have an MHX graphite 7’ from Mud Hole. It has carbon fiber 10” grip, Fuji guides, skeletonized graphite reel seat, medium heavy action, fast tip. It’s the best rod I own.

[@christopherlombardi4958]

About to buy one. Glad to see the feedback on MHX

[@robolson7224]

I build some rods with Mudholes brand of blanks, MHX and CRB, top quality and you are not paying a premium for the brand name

[@125Smorgs]

I'm planning on building my first inshore rod that I will be keeping at my parents place in the Tampa area to fish when I visit. Is it worth the money for titanium guides when I'll only be using it 2~ weeks a year? I want to build it on the MB941 blank. I want the 7'10" rod for a little extra distance.

[@larrypenttinen7119]

Good podcast

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks!

[@riccardocarbo2479]

Which Avid Inshore rod did you use in this video?

[@pain2174]

I’ve tried every rod out there and 2 are the very best ….. st croix inshore legend extreme…. Expensive but more sensitive than Richard Simmons, stronger than a timex… better built than a rolex…… then there is brutal strong … shimano teramar xx is stronger than anything short of a tuna stick…… but once cry once

[@danmeushar4485]

hello from israel! can you plz recomend on a specific beach(inshore) spining rod model of TFO? (lure weight 15g) tnx guys

[@yajtramer6913]

I have an Abu Garcia 9 foot. Awesome And a penn 8 foot 2 perfect rods. Also 2 penn persuit 3 and 4 reels Dream teams. ❤️🐒❤️🐒❤️🐒❤️🐒❤️🐒

[@Saltstrong]

Awesome! 💪🔥💪

[@robolson7224]

The difference ive seen between the 7' and 7'6" mass production rods is six inches added to the end of the butt section. Id like to see the butt section length the same but the length added to the upper casting section, thats how I like to build my personal rods. my suggestion would be find a good length from butt to reel seat, keep that standard and the length varies above the reel seat.

[@christopherlombardi4958]

I went to a 7'6 from a 7' just for the added under arm space

[@simonsaysr1994]

Why dont you guys ever try a bait caster setup? I wouldn knock on all combos. I love my Slx rod and slx dc reel combo . It has a nice back bone, a fast action tip. And i can do bass fishing to inshore with it. Tried a e6x rod and to my suprise I lost more fish . That slx Its my go to and ive done everything from walking a gotcha plug and landing a king mackerel with it to Landing many drums and Specs and big blues with it. and is super sensitive for bait fishing. I did pick up a st.croix mojo heavy power fast action 8 foot for longer casting. And my 12' medium power tica surf rod and daiwa durf rods. Just to try different brands. I like the flex of a medium rod for the wave cushion while surf fishing throwing a double drop rig.

[@muddywaters1934]

Y’all need to check out Big Bear rods especially the Kodiac series...for the money best rods I’ve ever fished

[@RichM0410]

Been checking them out per your recommendation. I like what I see. Thank you

[@juancarlosdediego9584]

What TFO matches well with a Saltist Mq 4000. It would be used to casting to Mahi, Cubera, amberjacks.

[@Saltstrong]

I'd go with their heavy power rating... 7' or 7'6"

[@rkw221]

Here is a question. I just bought a new model Ocean Master 12' surf rod. Love it's feel already. Thing is in my old age my rheumatoid arthritis has begun affecting my hands. The lower reel/gripping area is too skinny for my hands which makes me sqeeze which hurts every time I pickup the rod. It's not the rod's fault just my own quirk. Sooooo, I am pondering options to fatten those areas that will be durable enough for surf fishing. If read this you have recommendations? I'm considering a few wraps of foam tape covered by either shrink wrap then grip wrap of some sort. Or a source for Eva foam? (could use shrink wrap then grippy tape to keep it in place?). never got into rod building so all the options have turned into a paralysis by analysis thing. :)

[@Joe-bh4vz]

Build up the area you want to increase the diameter with foam tape first. Then wrap it with Winn grip tape.

[@ely410]

I have a 13Fishing Rod and Penn Rod. Same height, labeled as a similar power and action but the ratings are different. I would need to power down my Penn from M to Medium Light just to match the specs to my 13fishing.

[@Saltstrong]

Thank you for watching!! If you would like to find more tips and tactics, we have a massive library on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu. Note: If you don't see the exact answer you're looking for, just leave a comment in the post that most closely matches up with your search and one of our coaches will respond to your question... our coaches only make time to answer questions that get submitted to our website.

[@jameslong8901]

7ft 6 in rod medium power fast action to start.

[@josevaladez4285]

I'm not a member but how can i order a tfo rod and a daiwa bg 2500?

[@treformundth6954]

Best travel rod?

[@ewmism861]

I went out on charter with a cheap rod and reel among 10 fishers and i caught more than all of them combined Grasshoppers.

[@Saltstrong]

Nice work!

[@calallen8786]

Top 3 my go to rods is St Croix, Starrod and Gloomis. My least favorite is BullBay, never liked the feels of it. Bought 1 owned it for month then sold it. It feels junk to me but for 6000+ class reel rods it not bad it decent.

[@TexasPapa13]

Love my St Croix mojo inshore(purple). Can’t stand they discontinued it and changed it. The news ones(blue) aren’t built as well

[@robertveith2255]

I have a 200gtb Calcutta reel i need a rod largest lure i throw is about 1oz can you help.????

[@enewm7307]

Perfect all around rod is a battle 2 or 3 4000 or a Dawai Bg 4000. It'll get you a tarpon and you can still catch a snapper.

[@michaeldinsmore2235]

I know y'all mostly use spinning rods but don't forget the ones that use casting rods when making those new rods, personally I'm just more comfortable and capable with a casting rod most of the time

[@xm-5178]

Yeah, I understand where your coming from man. I'm still a bit of a novice when it comes to baitcasting myself but the way you hold the rod and reel in hand is just conducive to less fatigue over a long day of casting

[@joegrande4848]

There's also should be great sensitivity to the rod as well. Sadly bought an ugly stik rod an it's like a broom handle not very flexible or overly sensitive

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@earthq1077]

Try Daiwa Tatutal XT rods, amazing rods for the price.

[@Saltstrong]

👍

[@Arun-mv6up]

Which rod is best for hook set? Sensitive. Soft plastic, topwater lure, Please give me list of rods. Best rods

[@Gio-nl7eg]

Have you tried crowder rods?

[@Saltstrong]

We have not yet.

[@brieri418]

I want to see you guys review rods and reels for 50 bucks and under. Sometimes that’s all a person can afford

[@rainbosprinkles6548]

Daiwa arid x and daiwa coastal. Those rods are 50 bucks and better than 100 dollar rods I have.

[@rodneyrobinson6116]

I bought a ugly stick big water and a penn fierce IV 5000 for pier fishing for central CA , Did I choose wrong ?It feels good for sensitivity and plenty of power to reel a fish in

[@Saltstrong]

Thank you for your question! We have a massive library of fishing tips on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu. Note: If you don't see the exact answer you're looking for, just leave a comment in the post that most closely matches up with your search and one of our coaches will respond to your question... our coaches only make time to answer questions that get submitted to our website.

[@drevil4454]

yes there is a perfect rod. It cast's by itself onto the perfect spot has enough backbone to pull out either a whale or trout and it is as light as a feather. never degrades either. In my head.....

[@Saltstrong]

Hard to find!

[@lancegriesheimer4379]

1st love the info!! But got a question. I keep hearing 7'6". Is there a reason why as compared to a 7'2" or 6'8"? Or is it a personal preference? Thanks for any info

[@vxphan2601]

Because you like to have a long cast with a very light plastic lure. The long rod will give you that leverage advantage. 7’-6” is the ideal length. I do have a baitcast 8’ rod that I really like. Don’t get me wrong other lengths will work too ….. some rods can cast farther than others

[@josephmartello7866]

For surf fishing, what is a good rod length? One or two piece rod?

[@Saltstrong]

Thank you for your question! We have a massive library of fishing tips on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu.

[@vicentetibery6320]

I think it's important to have your gear balanced as well as the bait needs to be with a proper size and weight to work well with the rod and reel. Brand, length and power is a fisherman's choice.

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for the tip!

[@TheLAHOT]

PRO S 764-1 Is this the model you prefer?

[@Saltstrong]

Yes, we do like that one! Here is a recent review: www.saltstrong.com/articles/tfo-pro-s-series-spinning-rod-review/

[@oliviadodd518]

Can’t find tfo medium fast just medium moderate fast. What’s the difference?

[@joegrande4848]

My okuma rod is amazing want to get a bigger okuma rod to give me the ability to cast a country mile to get fish really far away. I don't have a boat or sadly waders I have knee high rain boots would like to get quality affordable hip waders

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for sharing!

[@walteroquinn757]

When I am fishing in cold weather I use gloves for spec and plastic I can't tell any different in the cork handle or any type my hands are cold

[@Saltstrong]

Great tip!

[@mrgetrealpeople]

Which model number TF0 is it ?

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for your question! Make sure to ask this over on the actual blog or in the Community (www.saltstrong.com/) where the coaches spend their time. The blog can be found here: bit.ly/3hfDe6A

[@colemant6845]

Which TFO rods (or other/Bull Bay etc.) combined with what reels are the best combos?... AT THE BEST VALUE PRICE. That is what we need to know.... How about just a Overall Combo ranking #1 thru #10 by price?... with a chart design of Pros and Cons. This would allow your subscribers understand your experience to make a purchase decision. That is what differentiates Salt Strong from all the other Sponsored fishing channels Thanks

[@Saltstrong]

We have that sort of list for rods, reels, lines, and lures for inshore saltwater anglers available on our website for Insider Club members. Here's a link: www.saltstrong.com/fishing-tip/fishing-equipment-cheat-sheet/

[@marcusgreen6331]

Best rule of thumb get the best rod you can afford and get a decent reel

[@robolson7224]

or the best used reel you can buy that would be better than a new decent reel

[@SaltyPirate71]

If the reel was more important, then fly fishing wouldn't be a thing. I watched Lefty Kreh land a 120 lb tarpon on an 11 weight rod. That afternoon he boated a 30 pound Mahi on another fly rod. Not once that day did he ever mention what reel he was using other than a brand name.

[@richvangilder117]

So how do our current rods such as Penn compare? Are they garbage? Are they so-so? Confused!!

[@robolson7224]

I have used some penn rods and the guide have issues with the ring coming out of the frame

[@motokenzo763]

You guys remind me of my buddies searching for the perfect dirt bike or gun that's gunna make you better....nope. Water time is the only thing that makes you better.

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@DeborahDupre]

Are you saying "GSO" rod? Where does one purchase a 7'6" GSO rod? I don't see it at Amazon or even on eBay, new or used. If no longer manufactured, what's the next best rod to it at a similar price?

[@iGoldenWax]

TFO

[@RH-nc8uu]

Best all around rod (with special rod holder consideration or no holder) would have a very short butt for spinning or a pistol grip bait casting. People used to say that's fine if you like that for 5 or maybe 6' rod... no it works with any length at least in the size one would use for inshore snook, reds and the like. Build some wrist and mid arm strength if you're soo feeble you need a 3oz -4oz rod. And if you can't cast one handed any regular (like less than 4 or really 6 or 10 ounce or so baits) at least as accurately or as far as with 2 hands - you are doing it very wrong

[@joemartin6439]

What rod are you selling now

[@Saltstrong]

Thank you for your question! We have a massive library of fishing tips on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu. Note: If you don't see the exact answer you're looking for, just leave a comment in the post that most closely matches up with your search and one of our coaches will respond to your question... our coaches only make time to answer questions that get submitted to our website.

[@richvangilder117]

Thought I'd seen rods that say they're ultra light but still rated MH? Might have been from Daiwa.

[@saleen12]

I hate split grips with a firey passion. They aren't comfortable to tuck under armpit

[@Saltstrong]

A lot of people don't like them. It all comes down to personal preference!

[@robertveith2255]

How are t.f.o. baitcaster rods like ..?????

[@drkrm]

Custom, custom, custom. Find a good custom rod builder and he/she will help you set it up the way like it. Factory rods seldom get the backbone of the rod aligned correctly. With a custom builder, you can get the grips, reel seat, guides you like and whatever decoration you want on the rod. But, don’t skimp on the rod blank to add pretty designs on it. That would be my advise. I won’t advertise my business, here, but, I’d like to. LOL!

[@SaltySeaCaptain]

custom rods are unnecessary until you really hone down a specific technique. most people that need help picking out a rod are beginners.

[@drkrm]

I disagree. Beginners buy Walmart rods.

[@SaltySeaCaptain]

@@drkrm You only disagree because you're a custom rod builder trying to promote your own industry. Do you honestly believe people just outside of the beginning stages are going to buy custom rods? Hell, I know plenty of charter captains that wouldn't waste their money on custom rods because there are plenty of good manufacturers that have plenty of options. Come back down to reality dude.

[@drkrm]

Don’t talk to me about reality, doooode. Beginners buy cheap rods because they don’t know any better. Charter Boat Captains buy cheap rods for two reasons. Their clients wouldn’t know a good rod if it slapped them in the face and, they know their customers are just going to tear them up, anyway. Why do you think experienced fishermen that go on charters take their own rods? There’s an awfully lot of seasoned golfers that pay thousands for custom weight clubs. If a person really enjoys the sport of fishing, AND has enough sense to know the rod is an important part of it, then, he might like to have a rod made to his specs. If he’s someone that can’t catch a fish at a seafood market, then he probably sits in mommie’s basement and trolls KZbin comment sections.

[@SaltySeaCaptain]

@@drkrm Dooooode, not every charter captain does family fishing charters. You know there are tons of captains that charter serious anglers too right? Not every family wants to spend $700 to be poled for Bonefish on the flats one at a time buddy. I get it, you make custom rods you think that's the only way to go, except there are thousands of people that buy from high end manufacturers and are happy. A rod doesnt have to be custom to be nice and you shouldnt be directing newer anglers to spend money on a custom rod when they dont even know what they need yet. The people that need custom rods dont need to be told they need them.

[@MichaelSmith-xr4og]

Now I know I've been missing a lot of fish weedless hook

[@Saltstrong]

Good to try different set ups!

[@kenfldude]

Loomis nrx rule

[@needler267]

I strongly disagree agree saying the rod is the most important. I look at the rod as the tires of a car. it just needs good tread. I.e you need the right backbone for the size fish and line and lures you are after. The reel is like the engine of the car. The reel and the line is what is actually handing the fish, most important I would say is the drag system on the reel. I would the the drag system is the most importing thing when when fighting a fish for lengthily times. All the rod has to do is literally just not brake, the tips or the eyes or in half while fishing. The reel in combination with the drag and the line and whether you can dog a fish in from getting spooled. This is why reel prices vary the most depending on features and bearings etc. You can go to the local flea markets and garage sales and find rods in useable condition very easily as they just mainly need all the eyes in working condition, the quality will obviously vary. What you can't do is go find 20-30 year old reels 2nd hand at flea markets or yard sales in working condition. And if you do it's likely outdated with a poor bearing and drag system not as capable for modern day use.

[@Saltstrong]

We appreciate your opinion and realize everyone has their own preference. Thanks for watching!

[@rainbosprinkles6548]

Yes, rods are more important but reels cost much more to manufacture. Hence why people will spend 200 on a reel and pair it up with a 100 dollar rod

[@rainbosprinkles6548]

The future is baitcasters.

[@DenisZ2023]

More rod, less butt.... Got it.

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidjarrett9846]

I WOULD LOVE TO BUY A 7'6" ROD BUT YOU DONT HAVE ANY

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@robertveith2255]

You buy a 7ft rod you lose length because the butt end is always to long ..

[@the_forgotten_angler]

It's a fly rod. ;-)

[@geraldsaved]

Forget rods. Hand line it.

[@BigcountryReactions]

Yes it’s the ugly stick welol out fish anything out there

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@rimshotdc]

Shakespeare Ugly Stik ❗...ALL DAY LONG

[@Saltstrong]

Thanks!

[@rimshotdc]

Expensive rods 👎

[@Saltstrong]

Everyone prefers something different!