Top 5 Rod and Reel Combos For Bass Fishing!

[@Armchair_Angler]

I also enjoyed the days when I knew nothing about tackle and thought spending over $30 on a combo was insane. Caught lots of fish, had a lot of fun, SAVED a lot of money. Thats the beauty of the sport, has something for everyone.

[@alyssa0411]

That’s me! It’s so overwhelming. I have only fished for trout and bluegill before and I am about to dip my toes into some bass fishing. I have a cheap 20-year-old Shakespeare light action rod which won’t do, so I just bought a Dobyns Fury 734 and a Shimano SLX DC. I’ve never even used a baitcasting reel before. lol. I don’t have anyone to fish with and hand out guidance, so these KZbin videos have been very helpful.

[@chmaximus319]

It is really respectable that you guys can allow your differences in preference to be a teaching tool. It's great watching you bounce off of each other and laugh about how you may disagree. We could all learn from that. Best fishing educational resource that is around. In my opinion.

[@josephmannix5120]

Tyler's reel fishing and Rick climb are good too

[@tdeeb6359]

What he said, EXACTLY!!!!!! Such good role models for boys and girls !! Thanks guys.

[@mattschulte1730]

I love to watch the back and forth, its like brothers but it doesn't get nasty and its still a learning experience

[@ethanvoelker2158]

@@mattschulte1730 😂

[@andrewmoore3995]

Definitely my favorite channel on here. I was wowed by one of their videos where they were showing rods that they've actually tested out themselves from different ends of the price spectrum rather then just try to sell the most expensive ones and not necessarily the most appropriate for what you're looking for.

[@jbjgibbons]

Ive been fishing for 40 years. I probably have 40 rod and reel combos too! 😂 But I still love this video as much as any other you guys do. We never stop learning. Keep up the great work guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

Yeah buddy! Thanks for watching and taking the time to respond as well. We didn't realize how hard it would be to trim it down to 5!

[@FishingVet8004]

Your mutual respect, your passion for the sport and the way you guys share your knowledge are the reasons this is one of the best you tube channels out there. My fishing's definitely gotten better because of it.

[@lancevoorhees7318]

Me too! I’m a finesse guy, but I’ve learned so much these guys videos!

[@MoMan.88]

Hands down the best fishing channel on KZbin, this video is the epitome of why I love y’all different opinions but common ground and the ability to condense and give the essential needs knowledge to your viewers, great job guys, keep up the good work!!

[@frederickyoerg7220]

Discovering an old video...love that you guys approach it from perspective of the guy just getting into it or looking to build skills & arsenal. I have discovered that I need as many rods as my boat has rod holders. Actually, I need one more.

[@chadrichey1969]

You guys are the best! I've been religiously watching ALL your videos over and over again for the past year and it's turned my fishing game into unbelievable fun and success!! THANK YOU!! I've bought most everything you have recommended from Dobyns to St. Croix to now I just got my first 2 Exprides (sweet rods)!!! I've gravitated to all Shimano reels because they are just that good Thank you again gentlemen! And I'm glad Matt is recovering well because I selfishly need you both to keep putting fish in my boat! Thx again, god bless

[@chrisbelloli637]

This is the best video explaining which rod combo to use for different applications, starting out in bass fishing and explanation of what rods will do. Thank you guys.

[@hc_gabe4078]

I think the Heavy action is the way to go after you’ve got the initial M Spinning and MH bait caster. I just enjoy power fishing a lot and I throw a lot of things on my 7’3 H/F that most people wouldn’t probably. It’s just very universal imo. And I don’t fish many crankbaits since I fish mostly shallow grass ponds/lakes.

[@jonorech]

So who else clicks "like" before viewing? Haven't watched yet, but wondering what the over/under on time before Matt says "parabolic." Seriously, I have learned more about rod action and selection here than anywhere else! Thanks, guys.

[@hunterbull7804]

I crank with a 6’9” Kistler Feel n’ Reel. It will throw everything from a lipless, to a squarebill, medium diver, chatter bait, and even a whopper plopper depending on your leader. It’s rated from 1/4 to 1 oz and is incredible versatile and sensitive. I love it because I scored it for $160!

[@DinusvanDoorn]

The Feel n Reel is a amazing rod.

[@DinusvanDoorn]

Well, I buy the new KLX and Helium models on the new blanks. Is not bad early better. I think a good choice to switch to other blanks

[@franklinfocus]

Rod: UglyStick Carbon Reel: Lews American hero spinning Line: 15lb-20lb black or green braid (liters with barrel swivel when needed)

[@j.w.crawford_554]

You guys never disappoint. And always break it down quick and simple to understand

[@GeorgiaBassmaster]

Its far worth the money to spend the money for shimanos guys! Go to facebook marketplace or ebay and you can get the SLX DC for $150 any day of the week. You won't regret it!

[@hoffa3130]

My favorite time of year....Buyers Guide!!!

[@tacticalbassin]

Soon... very soon. 👊

[@jacenchrisbaker]

A great video to do after this is 'the next 5 rods' you should look for after building the core of your arsenal. Lots of good info here, and it would be nice to see how your opinions differ as you delve deeper.

[@tacticalbassin]

Very true! That's a really good idea 👊

[@jacenchrisbaker]

@@tacticalbassin You guys cover a lot here, and those rods are all good for certain jobs, but there's some things they likely may not be 'great' for. I think some of the best discussions you guys present are the ones where you just don't share the same opinion. It's what makes your friendship and partnership so endearing. That you can disagree in a healthy way and understand each side. The world should probably aspire to be more like that, in general.

[@coachlance1420]

Oh no not down the TB rabbit hole lol haa j/k

[@UncleMike04]

Tim and matt are an awesome team. Different views, different strengths, and an unimaginable amount of knowledge. Great video guys!

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks!!

[@MuahMan]

Top spinning setup on Planet Earth is the Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 5.1. Oz. Buttery smooth. Paired with a Shimano Cumara rod. BEST EVER!

[@Glarshnab627]

Love the guides you two put out, and this one is no exception. I'd agree with Matt that for an absolute beginner, a 7' M spinning is going to give them the opportunity to try out the most techniques and figure out not only what works best for their fishery, but also which they personally enjoy the most. On the other hand, I think Tim makes a better point with rod #5 for the heavier applications vs the cranking rod. The M casting rod is (like you guys said) usually so limber that you can get away with throwing cranks on it whereas none of the other rods can fill the niche of the heavier techniques. For me, that deep parabolic action of a crankbait rod would come after the others. Truthfully, I still throw my lipless cranks and squarebills on my jerkbait rod and I love the action for that application, but for deeper cranks or more open water I would definitely want that slower action. In the end, I agree that it's all personal preference.

[@drewjensen8516]

I’ve been waiting for this forever!! Knew it would come soon than later. You guys are my hero’s 😂 the expertise is unmatched in my opinion!

[@dannytroy4179]

Great info. You guys have made me a Dobyns fan. I now own 3. Two BC & 1 spinning. LOVE THEM

[@donsisco7118]

I dont understand why anyone would give this a 👎 down, this is Very helpful for the new guys 👍👊

[@frankh2213]

This video was one of my favorites that you guys have done. It's cool to see your different perspectives on just 5 rods. I'm a river fisherman chasing smallmouth and rarely fish in more than 7" of water so I tend to lean more towards Tim's rod choice when it comes to the 5 choices. It is awesome how precisely broken down everything is and how you explain your choices. I also like how you guys refrain from using the word "cheap" because I think that could mean many different things.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Frank! Sounds like you're fishing some amazing places!!

[@frankh2213]

@@tacticalbassin The susquehanna river in Pennsylvania is awesome. There's nothing like a big river smallie!

[@Stratollac]

This will probably make me sound like some sort of geek, but I wish you had distinguished between power and action. In every case except for the crankbait rod, you meant a fast action rod, whereas the crankbait rod is moderate fast action but probably MH power. The point is, it’s actually the action, or bend of the rod, that differentiates the crankbait rod from a typical medium-heavy or medium power Rod that you mentioned earlier. you guys are so precise about the way you talk about everything else, and this difference between power and action can lead to a great deal of confusion for many fishermen, so I’d like to see you help clear up the confusion.

[@loanshark214]

This might be the first gear video that I agree with Tim on 100% (from a southern angler). The Heavy can't be left out down here.

[@ddmnov22]

Love your videos! I would like to suggest another category: “super budget”. Thanks guys.

[@scottmiller4516]

Stick with a string

[@Tbowie13]

I just don't think these guys are interested in super budget. Most of the time, they are down grading when fishing a $300-$400 combo. And I don't blame them, once you fish good gear you won't go back...and it lasts really well too.

[@Timmeh2Buck]

Cane pole

[@treycain3233]

So this is why I should of went to college?

[@mikesawyer6742]

Y’all are so good together and to watch. It’s good to disagree because good people learn from that. I enjoy all of your videos and info given to all of us. Thank you!!

[@michaelhammon8337]

As someone who's looking to expand his aresenal a little more than just a few spinning rods and making the jump to baitcaster options I appreciate the video. I've been keeping a list of specific rod/reel combos for different techniques based off your videos so I just added to that list based on this one.

[@lcg79]

Always amazed at both of your knowledge, experience, advice, and professionalism. The best fishing channel on KZbin I have ever seen. Thank you both for doing what you guys do.

[@BasslivesmatterLLC]

I remember as a beginner kayaker I didn't understand why boat guys had 10 rods on the boat. Fast forward 5 years later im that guy thanks Tactical bassin my bank account loves you 😂.It is really important to have the right lure on the proper rod and reel. Excellent video fellas

[@taddbednar3641]

I asked for this exact video on Wednesday and to my surprise I wake up today for exactly what I was looking for. Thank you TacticalBassin. Sorry for my lack of work productivity today, I'm busy building my Wish List on Tackle Warehouse.

[@tacticalbassin]

We don't respond to every comment, but we see them all. Perhaps you tips the scales... 😉

[@robbhawks2568]

Great video. I'm new to bass fishing. Started with St Croix MHF spin. Love it. Then a St Croix MF spin. Now I have 2 more St Croix casting with 3 Shimano reels, and a Lews super duty 300.

[@DustyTheDog]

Both of my rods are Duckett Silverado. One is 7-0 MH and the other is 7-3 MH. I use my 7-0 MH for just about everything. I have one paired with a Lew's Custom Speed Spool(Model: CG1XH) and the other with a Lew's Mach Speed Spool(model MS1SH). I got every piece on sale. The Custom combo I paid a total of 140$(Retail: reel 180+rod100=$280) and the Mach combo I paid 60$ total(Retail: Reel100+rod100=$200). I really like my combos. They cast far, the rods are accurate, the rods are sensitive and REALLY light, and the rods have a skeletonized reel seat. This means a lot to me personally. I like to feel the blank. The reels are smooth and have adequate brakes. The Custom has centrifugal as well as magnets, the Mach has only magnets

[@ShapewearUSA]

The most detailed video just ever watched. Thank you !

[@ryancarlisle5945]

Id agree with Tim here, you can still throw cranks on MH, although it won't be perfect, it still gets the job done. Having a heavy rod opens up so much opportunity to throw bigger/heavier baits.

[@larrystolzman9337]

Fishing is both wonderful and costly. My fishing addiction has forced me to create a spread sheet of my fishing rods and reels (about 35). My family laughs at my records, but I recommend it to everyone. Knowing what you have saves you from buying duplicates. Any new fisherman should keep good records from the start. The list helps if you have an insurance claim or want to give your family a suggestion for that perfect addition to your collection. It also helps when you’re looking at sale flyers.🐟🤓🧐 Thanks once again for great information.

[@KennyFishbone]

Good explanations I've seen you explain the reasoning behind the different rating. Medium Medium heavy light fast etc. Beginners, and when I started years ago, really don't need or understand the need for the different equipment. That comes with experience Who hasn't started with a spincast on a 6' rod with a box of everything!. Bottom or surface was the two "techniques" we used!

[@ragingfishaholic]

This is also a great video for those kayakers out there. We can't carry a dozen rods on are kayak easily. I usually take 6 rods with me on the kayak. 2 spinning and 4 bait casters. A couple of those bait caster get switched out depending on where I'm fishing. I don't need crank bait rods if I'm fishing places with lots of salad.

[@TryptOut208]

This video literally couldn’t have come at a better time. Thank you so much gents! I am in the market of a budget-medium rod/reel combo so thank you for doing this video!!

[@tacticalbassin]

We're happy to do it 👊

[@HBeretta]

A true gem is the 13fishing Muse Black 6'10" medium casting rod. They can be had new on ebay for as low as $150. I have the Adrenas...the SLX rods...and like them, but the Muse Black is truly special for the price and is ultra light.

[@markjones4358]

I generally take 3 rods,4 if i go for panfish. Med-hvy for jigs-weighted Texas rigs. Med for crankbaits-chatter-spinnerbaits. Med spinner for senko-ned-dropshot. I keep those rigs in both vehicles. Also keep those setups in spinning for strictly secret spots in the woods to prevent backlashes.

[@zachploen4067]

Also, gotta say I love that you mentioned a Dobyns rod in the description. I think they offer some extremely underrated rods for a very fair price. Their customer service is beyond excellent.

[@Armchair_Angler]

This was the video that I needed when starting out. Took me a while to figure it out but I totally agree with your choice of rods, though I would rank the heavy casting before the medium casting (frogging > jerkbait). My brother is just starting out, looks like he won't have to spend 100s of hours deciding how to wisely spend his $$ (if you can say spending $100s of dollars on fishing gear is wise 😁) Thanks guys, keep them coming

[@drakeaamold7577]

God is good

[@JCol-xt8nj]

You guys are the GOATS! I truly respect your honest, unbiased opinions! I have a hard time understanding "Taper" and why that's important.. I'm fairly new and everything I own is "Fast".. Video to come? 🤔

[@Kilo011]

Love the video guys action is where the rod bends power is the strength of the blank. Example a medium light power fast action. Just explaining it a little better. Keep it up brothers

[@SimonSays_]

Both solid points, glad to know I picked the perfect 4 rods to get first though, let’s me know I’m doing something right and gives me some confidence in the sport as I am a solo angler , thank you for the video gentleman

[@larryvilla6869]

I just got my first dc reel super excited to try it!

[@791482]

my favorite.... curado dc

[@jacksonlanier4180]

I just got one about a month ago and I’m loving it

[@Davvid1]

You're going to love that DC I do both of mine

[@kathymatheny6336]

I bought one in August but didn’t get to use it til last weekend. Un-friggin-real! Huge difference!

[@larryvilla6869]

@@kathymatheny6336 the rod I got mine with isn't coming on August and I got it in October ;-; it's a 7ft glass casting rod for my square bills and other moving baits

[@johnwolff1043]

Tim’s examples of what he throws on each action is higher than mine. My mh baitcasting rods are being used for flipping, frogging, chatterbait, swimjig, keitech etc. but my region doesnt have 10 lbers like the Tactical guys.

[@kevinlawson1503]

Per Matt's advice I purchased a Dobyns Fury 705CB and I couldn't be happier. It is my do it all rod as I expand. Super sensitive, I even throw Carolina rigs on it and can feel every single thing on the bottom. Paired it with a Quantum Escalade so the whole combo is under 200 and it's just butter.

[@MrLapin-LL]

I knew Matt was going for the cranking rod (ans I fully agree)! You guys are great. I really enjoy your deep friendly relationship, you look like brothers (fighting, disagree but with an unbreakable bound to each other). Ok, I will get my medium casting to complete my arsenal...

[@smoovefishing]

I would have to agree with Tim on the 5th rod going with a heavy action and the reason why if you go with a little longer med casting rod like a 7’2” you could do a lot of small cranking with it like square bills small cranks, so I would want the heavy rod for frogs and flipping

[@outofbody6797]

yall deserve every sub yall get, honest advice... would love to be out on the boat with yall just learnin. this is as close as it gets !!

[@laguanhayes214]

I rank this as the best rod and reel video I have ever seen. Thanks so much.

[@tacticalbassin]

Glad you enjoyed it! We're happy to help.

[@jmh7942]

Since I mostly fish from a kayak I usually take 4 rods with me depending on location, time of year, and how I plan on fishing that day. I have others but I almost always choose 4 out these 5 to take when fishing for Bass. 6'-8" - Medium - Extra Fast Spinning Rod 7' - Medium - Fast Casting Rod 7' - Medium - Moderate Casting Rod 7' - Medium Heavy - Fast Casting Rod 7'-6" Heavy - Fast Casting Rod

[@jholl7339]

I'm a kayak angler who typically takes 4 rod combos, too. Usually, they are the following: 7' - Medium Light / Fast Spinning 7'2" - Medium Heavy / Fast Casting 7'3"- Medium Heavy / Moderate Casting 7'6"- Heavy / Fast Casting If I add a fifth, it's usually a 7'- Medium Spinning. I used to rely on a 7'Medium / Fast Casting combo, a lot, but found, as I branched out on other combos, I didn't have to lean on the Medium Casting combo, so much, Kinda like what Tim and Matt said.

[@jmh7942]

@@jholl7339 I might add a 6'-8" - 6-10" Medium Light Spinning Rod to the group. I'm pretty short so any time I'm standing and point the rod towards the water to work it I need something a little shorter. My favorite rod has to be the Medium Moderate though. Love how it feels.

[@alexanderlee6509]

In the budget category, American Legacy Fishing regularly sells SLX combos for about $60 off if rod and reel were purchased separately. That's a very sensible cost effective option.

[@spartancraig6000]

As a kayak angler, I’m limited to really only 7 rods. And I carry all 6 of these rods plus a technique specific rod. These core rods are necessary for kayak and bank fishermen because we don’t have rod lockers

[@Fintuition]

Thinking of getting a less 6'10" medium bait caster for my first bass fishing setup. This video was very helpful and easy to follow. Thanks!

[@bobbyspang]

I’d go with a 7’ MH casting rod.... it is the most versatile rod you can buy

[@The_Great_White]

I got a medium heavy moderate fast for my single hook moving baits and a medium heavy moderate for my bigger cranks and a medium moderate for smaller cranks. Heavy fast for Texas rigs, frogs, flippin etc.

[@johntalbert8890]

I agree with your pole size, Medium, Med Heavy, and Heavy. These days I mostly fish baitcasters, Still have a few spinners. But wen I look at your Budget combos, That would be expensive for me. The most I have spent on a combo was this year for a Lew's combo that set me back what you would call a Budget rod. I feel you can get good fishing equipment that is lightweight has good response from the less expensive equipment.

[@mikegardiner3934]

You guys always do, but you really nailed this one! Love the fact that you guys don’t agree on everything, that would just be weird. LOL Terrific vid guys! Look forward to that Black Friday video at some point next month. God bless!

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Mike!

[@zaksteigerwald8135]

I'm a big fan of the Daiwa Aird X series, both the spinning and casting rods, only $55. I have one of the 7' ML spinning rod for finesse, and a 7' H baitcaster for top water and spoon applications. Great overall rods for a great price

[@thadgeorge4984]

Thanks for another great teaching video guys. I had watched Matt's video on jerkbait fishing and purchased a Sierra medium rod with a SLX MGL reel. This video just backs up what Matt said in the jerkbait video. Caught my first bass on the combo last night and the rod did exactly what Matt said, the tip bends till it hits the backbone. Thanks again guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

We're happy to help! Enjoy the new combo... that SLX MGL rocks! 👊

[@thadgeorge4984]

@@tacticalbassin I am going to try again to tie the blood knot for my line to leader knot. The double Uni knot doesn't go through the micro guides well. Tried tying the blood knot last night but couldn't get it to hold. Went back and watched Matt's video on knot tying and will reduce number of wraps on leader.

[@bobbyspang]

Good information, but to me line size in combination with the technique and lure size is really what drives rod selection. You can drop shot on 8 lbs test or 15 lbs test or texas rig on 12 lbs or 20 lbs test and that’s what really determines rod selection. I just think that all of the techniques can be thrown on different line sizes and that is a major part of what rod should be selected.

[@osculum666]

Picked up a 7’ medium St. Croix Legend X and paired it up with a Shimano Exsence from last years buyers guide.... worried about this years ding to the wallet! But that combo is a dream and did a lot of damage this past year!

[@eaqx]

Ive got 3 rods. 1 medium spinning, a cranking rod, and medium heavy rod. Works great in Wisconsin

[@zachploen4067]

You guys are awesome! What a great friendship/partnership you have with this channel. Always great info from the both of you.

[@jimwilkey7294]

One of there best VIDS to get you where you need to start. Great advice to follow 👍

[@mosephfistergoodntave]

The point made about the spinning rod, strangely disappearing is sooo accurate! Im 2years into bassin and I didnt realize it till you said it in this video but mine has vanished as well lol, i should fix that soon

[@tacticalbassin]

Isn't that amazing?! Its such a "must have" on the front end but it sure disappears down the line.

[@matthewheld8577]

I carry a 7’ medium spinning and BC combo on my boat at all times. “For me”....they are munch more versatile for swapping around techniques and baits. Should they be labeled junk fishing combos? To back them up I have a 1/2 doz custom made MH rods with the a FA rod tip. What I do is change the line type, line weight for specific fishing techniques that fish my fishing style. I personally believe we have our own fishing style and you have to figure out what works best for you.

[@natewallis3885]

I've gotta go with Matt. Need something moderate for treble hook baits, although a 7' medium may have some good cross over there. Good stuff guys

[@jasonw500]

Great video as always. Would you guys consider doing a video on gear ratios in spinning and baitcasters, benefits to each, types of situations for each, that sort of thing? If already a video on this would you point me there? thank

[@mikeweller326]

great video as always i'm a four rod guy ultra lite 7' med 7' med heavy 6'8 and heavy 7'6 two spinning two bait casters the ultra is my trout rod the rest are my bass set ups med heavy is spooled with 15lb fluo the rest braid to leader

[@peoriaos6627]

Thanks. These are good choices and we appreciate the effort. I will be keeping away from Bass Pro equipment. I was talked into buying $150 combo and the pole broke on my first fairly large fish. Lost the pole and the fish. Youch. Maybe I should have bought a Zebco.

[@erichthompson1194]

When will you guys be starting the buyer's guide series for this year? Black friday in about a month and my wallet is bracing for impact

[@tacticalbassin]

We usually start a week or two before Black Friday for your wallet's sake... If we start now you might not make it to the sales 😂😂😂

[@erichthompson1194]

@@tacticalbassin Very true lol

[@gaterb11]

😂😂😂

[@joep412]

I've been tucking away an extra $25-$50/week for the since September in preparation for that video!!

[@cazbarsaelao4663]

😂

[@ryanakers8853]

Watched this a month ago when it first came out. Watched it again tonight as I'm trying to figure out my next combos. Love the content and appreciate the help so much! Now to just find the right options...

[@kweeks10045]

Great work gentlemen. Definitely some solid combos. I especially like the Shimano Nasci 2500 being thrown in. I use one on a 7’ Falcon rod in both fresh and saltwater and it’s awesome for the price. I had several redfish this year in the 26-28” range and used the same setup the next week throwing 1/8oz shaky heads for bass. One other rig to consider is the Lew’s Black LFS in either M (7’ rod) or MH (7’3”). It’s a little pricier at $279 MSRP but offers a great braking system, aluminum frame, it’s saltwater compatible, and the rods are a good match for the reel and between the two offer a lot of flexibility. I personally throw Shimano, Lew’s, Daiwa, Penn, Quantum, and Pflueger so I’m not partial to any brand as much as I have a preference for a piece of equipment that works best for me in a particular situation. Tight lines! Which reminds me, the Pflueger President XT is hard to beat for small finesse rigs!

[@GregSmith-me5fy]

You guys are freaking top notch and spot on man, thanks for these videos

[@scottt.1526]

I love your combos videos... I have a great idea for you guys (I think). Make videos where you cover a brand. Have a Shimano combos videos, with all your favorite models, then a Daiwa vid, a Dobyns vid, St Croix, Megabass, etc... and the videos where the company, like Dobyns, doesn't make reels, just add on your favorite reel for that rod. I think us fisherman guys would enjoy that! Happy fishin!

[@shaunroberts9361]

Thank you Matt &Tim for that. It's time I buy new rods. You guys left CA just in time. It's so dry out here. Went Camp Far West yesterday and it is just a mud hole. We need rain so bad here. It is pathetic...why dont you guys do a give a away and fly some one out there to TN.

[@NFiltr8Red]

Gonna buy a Bass Boat this year, but before that I bought all high end gear. I just can go back to sub par stuff. Love my Exist and Stella’s. But honestly for the best bang for your buck, Daiwa Tatula elite AGS rods are hard to beat. Priced right and quality others can’t compete.

[@lancevoorhees7318]

I should’ve watched this video five years ago, great video!

[@markbuckallew4689]

That was an awesome video....it actually reminded me of the first Tactical Bassin utube video I watched. Matt did a video on rod actions - he had several rods stuck in concrete blocks w/ 3 lb weights(?).... I really think that video should be updated...visually seeing the different actions while discussing them is huge help, IMHO. I think a discussion about the difference between Power and Action would be a good video idea. I know it would help me. Thanks for another great video guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

Oh man! Mark, thanks for sticking with us for so long! I remember that video like it was yesterday... we shot it on the side of the old barn. A revamp is a really good idea.

[@dantegmo]

Man, learned so much from you guys over the past couple of years that I have started bass fishing. Thanks for sharing the info, it really does help... just not with the wallet lol. I went from 2 rods to about 25+. What's interesting is for catfish and surf fishing I still use the same old rods. I even use my catfish rod at the surf. Bass fishing not so much.

[@tacticalbassin]

Ha! Its funny how that works! Its only been the last few years that the "technique specific" aspect of bass fishing has bled over into my trout fishing arsenal, salmon fishing, salt water, etc..

[@kcmike6762]

What about best fishing line to put on these set ups?

[@richardbossman9875]

I’d like to see a video about paring down combos to the absolute minimum and still be able to effectively fish almost all techniques. It would be interesting to see if a typical angler could get by with 2-3 combos and be able to fish just about any technique at any time of the year .

[@tacticalbassin]

I don't think it could be done with 3 if we're really talking "every technique". A big swimbait gets a dedicated rod, same for a crankbait. You could do a lot of blending for the middle baits however and probably pull it off with 5 or 6 if you really had to.

[@thegiant573]

I do with a medium Spinning, medium light spinning, and a medium heavy casting. I do a lot of bank fishing and walking around with more than 3 rods is a pain.

[@richardbossman9875]

Yeah I figured big swimbaits, float N fly and a few other niche techniques would require their own dedicated rod but maybe I should have added that initially.

[@jholl7339]

@@tacticalbassin Agree. Part of the reason why I limit my swimbait choices to pretty much no larger than, say, an S-Waver 168. Then again, I'm also in SW Pennsylvania, so my chances of running into a mondo bass aren't quite the same as, say, Clear Lake. To date, my PB Largie is a 5 pounder, although I lost a 6 to 7 pounder, right at the kayak, this summer. It still hurts.

[@cheezyridr]

@@tacticalbassin some people don't need/use "every technique". i don't own a boat, so i tailor my gear choices to the water i'm fishing. i live in a small state, all the waters are small and relatively shallow. i get by just fine owning 2 rods for bass, (med hvy casting and a medium casting) 1 for panfish, ( ultralite spinning) and a knock-about combo (budget medium casting) i can leave in the car for spur of the moment rambo missions. either way, when i'm fishing, i only carry 1 rod.

[@ChristopherT23]

If you’re getting into fishing I think that if you had the 7 foot medium heavy casting rod. Also have the 7 foot medium spinning rod and a 7 foot 4 inch bait caster rod.

[@TheKodiakWay]

I think it depends on location also. Up in the northwest, I'll stumble into an epic trout bite, and smash em on a light, or ultra light. Even though I'm chasing bass, I've NEVER felt bad pulling a 20"+ trout in.

[@scottedwards6117]

No joke on that GLX 843 MBR..... I've got legend elites and imx's and that glx is hands down the best rod upon my arsenal.

[@ryanspringer130]

not only is the medium spinning great for the wife and kids, but when you're on the kayak and can only bring a handful of rods, i Always go with the med. power spinning and 2 other bait casters.

[@adaofromdiscord]

When you get up in price point those high end bait casting combos replace your spinning tackle . Those dobyns champions extreme xp are the best paired with a bfs Shimano aldebaran or regular aldebaran . I haven’t used a spinning combo in years . I throw Texas rig worms, finesse jigs, Spy baits , small jerk baits , finesse worms and drop shot . I haven’t tried wacky rig on a baitcasting rod yet tho lol .

[@adamrobinson3126]

I really appreciate what you guys do! I truly believe that watching your videos has made me a better angler.

[@tedlarrabee9278]

I enjoy your videos and all the different perspectives you share. Just curious about doing a video on just spinning rods/reels and how they fish all the same techniques, lures, rigs as bait casting rods do. I switched over to spinning only and sold or gave away all my casting equipment almost 25 years ago. I guess my biases are based on how I learned to fish as a boy well over 60 years ago. I did bass fish for a number of years with everything including bait casters, but now just enjoy all my fishing (fresh/salt) using only spinning gear. It would be interesting to a seasoned angler like me to see how you think a spinning only approach stacks up today. Thanks for all you contribute to the sport. Great work!!!

[@givemeabreakdoc]

First rod was a 6 ft medium pro comp II cabelas rod and Mitchell 300. Fifty dollars for the setup. Caught a lot of fish.

[@crashbomber]

A perfect video for me today, since I lost a combo in the lake yesterday after accidentally catching a 20lb catfish, lol.

[@DCHZS]

😂

[@perrygross5733]

Now that we know what rods to use how about some reels speeds, drag, for the type of rods you have described. I have learned so much in the last 2 years watching your videos I took a break from fishing because of work for a long time and things have changed alot but it was very easy getting back to a solid position with you two teaching your technique through your videos... Thanks

[@perrygross5733]

Guess I should have looked at the list first before asking about reels lol

[@codycantrell2780]

Might be a little redundant but I’d love to see a 7 or 8 combo set up to see where things might be slightly more refined! Might just be because that’s where I’m at in my fishing arsenal haha.

[@bdotty2320]

Man my first ever fishing combo that I still have and use is a 5’6 zebco slingshot😂 I use it for my soft plastics but looking for a better spinning rod combo and my casting combo I love using is a 6’10 medium lews rod, gotta say I love using it for my crackbaits and jigs and other things, Gotta say this video helps a lot thanks guys 💪🏽

[@WhoGoneStopMe925]

Man I love watching you guys😂 thanks for teaching me how to catch fish!!!

[@Turners412]

I bought a medium light 6'10 st croix mojo bass rod yesterday and a Mitchell 300 pro reel for it and it felt pretty amazing for a medium light I caught 2 decent bowfin on it and some nice 2-3lbs smallies but I was looking at the 7'1 medium but no shops by me had one and I hate ordering rods lol

[@pamelaklemp5615]

I watched this but saved it to watch again later too. Glad you did this video! My only concern is this: There is not a universal industry standard for the rod weights of medium, medium heavy, heavy, etc. All of those rod weights differ from brand to brand. That said, how does someone know which med heavy (etc.) To buy? Let's look at a medium heavy, fast action, tapered tip rod...a LEW'S brand will be different from a Googan brand, etc. Then how do you choose which one to buy???