Inexpensive Rod/Reel Combo for Inshore Saltwater Fishing?

Hi all,

I’ve been saltwater fishing pretty consistently for about 2 years now and really love it, but I’m in need of a new (and inexpensive) rod/reel combo. I’m a poor law student and I’m always at my family’s beach house during breaks. I just got a kayak, so I’ll be doing a lot of inshore fishing in Mobile Bay within the next two weeks. I also fish from sandbars in the Gulf, so I’m looking for something that will stand up to different types of fish, from ladyfish and whiting to red bulls and flounder. My price limit is around $200 for both the rod and reel, but the cheaper the better. I just want to get the most bang for my buck. I like Daiwa rods and my Shimano 4000 spinning reel, but I’m open to trying a baitcasting reel as well. I’ve heard great things about Daiwa, Penn, and Abu gear.

What’s the best option for me?

Thanks in advance for your advice!!

4 thoughts on “Inexpensive Rod/Reel Combo for Inshore Saltwater Fishing?

  1. Ole Fisherman Post author

    Here are some options for you. Please read the reviews given:

    1. Shimano, Spheros SP4000- If you need a reel that can catch “anything”, (From Bull Reds, larger Snook, to paper-mouthed Spec Trout, Etc), you’ll def need a reel with a powerful drag system. The Spheros has the strongest drag system, (44LB’s) in it’s class- http://www.basspro.com/Shimano-Spheros-Offshore-Spinning-Reels/product/103536/-1491648

    2. Daiwa, Coastal Inshore, M-action- (Please read reviews)- http://www.basspro.com/Daiwa-Coastal&153;-Inshore-CoasttoCoast-Spinning-Rods/product/97106/-1448168

    If your looking for an even less expensive rod check out the Berkley Shock Series OR the Ugly Stik Lite Inshore model; lotsa good “buzz” on both of these.

    Baitcasting outfit’s:

    Fishing from a Kayak with a Baitcaster can be difficult for some, (I need to be standing to be accurate with a Caster). For this reason, you may want to try a friends out before purchasing one.

    The better Inshore caster’s aren’t cheap. You COULD get a Daiwa Inshore, ( http://www.basspro.com/Daiwa-Coastal-Inshore-Special-Baitcast-Reel/product/71937/-1319116 ) but, according to reviews, it has a low-powered drag system AND it eats into your budget for your rod too much. In my opinion, if your dead-set on a caster, I suggest getting an Abu Garcia C4 4600, (http://www.basspro.com/Abu-Garcia-Ambassadeur-C4-Classic-Round-Baitcast-Reels/product/74091/-1205079 ). They are very durable, inexpensive, and have excellent feedback, (I personally own 2- they are worthy!)

    Go to Bass Pro for further info and reviews on reels and rods.

    Hope this helps ya?

  2. Owen Corey Post author

    Bass Pro Shops makes a nice Rod for like 99$ and it looks a nice value for fishing.

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