Coming in first place as the best all-around rod and reel combo for bass fishing, the KastKing Crixus is a powerhouse of a baitcaster combo. With an IM6 graphite rod, powerful carbon drag, and CNC machined aluminum spool, this good-looking rod and reel set offers high-end performance at an affordable price.

This KastKing baitcaster reel comes ready for any fight, equipped with a durable carbon drag system and 8-button magnetic braking system. Internally, 5 + 1 double-shielded ball bearings keep performance smooth while protecting against rust. Although this reel is intended for freshwater usage, it can hold up to saltwater as well — just be sure to keep up with maintenance, as baitcasters can be susceptible to internal grit. 

With an ambidextrous retrieve handle, saltwater or freshwater applications, and compact telescoping build, this Plusinno combo covers all grounds. The rod collapses into a 2 ft build for easy transport, making this portable rod a winner for backpacking, hiking, or road trips. Wherever you roam, the Plusinno Carbon Fiber Telescopic Combo has you covered.

It’s hard to beat the quality of KastKing, and this KastKing Centron rod and reel combo is no exception. The IM6 graphite rod and reel keep this gear lightweight and strong, as does the CNC machined aluminum spool. For a powerful freshwater combo, the KastKing Centron is our top choice as the best bass fishing spinning rod and reel combo.

This rod’s IM6 graphite blanks separate neatly into 2 pieces, while the contoured EVA handles and Fighting Butt design keeps your angling comfortable all day long. The split-rear handles offer easy support, while the Saf-T Hook Holder keeps you from ever losing a lure in transport.

The Centron spinning reel offers ultra-smooth performance, thanks to it’s 9 + 1 ball bearings and one-way anti-reverse. We particularly liked how the two-color anodized aluminum spool provides extra strength and additional line capacity. The Power Launch lip is another excellent feature, allowing you to cast farther with less effort.

Overall, we found this to be the best rod and reel combo for bass and trout. Between the alloy drive gear, extra line capacity spools, and extra-far casting lip, the KastKing Centron makes a great addition to any angler’s tackle.

Although the best bass fishing combos don’t always come cheap, this Quantum Strategy Spinning Combo gives other rods and reels a run for their money. With a durable IM7 graphite rod, lightweight composite spinning reel, and computer-balanced rotor, the Quantum Strategy Spinning Combo is a safe bet for any bass angler.

Made of ultra-light IM7 graphite, the Quantum spinning rod comes equipped with deluxe D-ring guides and a classic cork handle. We always appreciate a rod with a built-in hook keeper, and this rod’s easy 2-piece assembly makes it even more convenient.

With a corrosion-resistant graphite rod paired with a lightweight composite reel, this combo can take you from freshwater lakes to saltwater shores with minimum maintenance required. Internally, the 5 + 1 ball bearings keep the retrieve silky smooth, while the Continuous Anti-Reverse Clutch™ keeps you in control.

Control is essential for any bass fight, and you’re sure to gain the advantage with Quantum’s powerful front drag. The computer balanced rotor offers a fluid cranking motion which, combined with the powerful drag, makes it easy to land some of the strongest bass.

Our only word of warning is not to overspool the forged double-anodized spool. Line lay issues can occur with test over 6lbs. But for a high-value, high-tech combo, you can’t go wrong with the Quantum Strategy Spinning Combo.

Made of 24-ton graphite, this 2-piece spinning rod comes equipped with corrosion-resistant stainless steel rod guides and inserts. The double-footed hook keeper makes this rod easy to store and travel-friendly.

The Cadence spinning reel offers 7 + 1 corrosion resistant ball bearings, granting you smooth performance in any environment. And with a stainless steel main shaft, machined aluminum spool, and carbon composite frame & side-plate, you can stay safe from salt damage. This set works well in both waters, so long as regular maintenance is performed.

This spinning combination stays comfortable all day as well, thanks to its lightweight build and over-sized EVA handle knob. Some reviewers have had quality control issues regarding the rod’s durability, but Cadence’s 1-year limited warranty will cover replacements as necessary. For the cost, convenience, and features, this Cadence CC4 4000 spinning reel combo is our top choice for bass and catfish angling.

Although the Daiwa D-Shock Freshwater Spinning Combo comes last on our list, it's only "least" in its price point. This powerful rod and reel combo offers the best of bass fishing benefits at a beginner-friendly price.

Although the spinning reel only comes equipped with a single bearing, its Digigear Drive System optimizes every retrieve to keep you in control. We were particularly impressed by the Twist Buster line roller, which ensures even line-lay on the lightweight ABS machined aluminum spool.

Lightweight durability is central to this Daiwa Spinning Combo, with its 6’0” medium-light power fiberglass rod. The rod is partially hollowed to improve handling and reduce the strain of use, with a light tip for fast action maneuvering.

The feather-light rod lends itself to better bite sensitivity, making it easier for you to land your catch. The hollowed style can be more susceptible to damage, however, and the max rod weight should be considered before use. The comfortable cork handle offers excellent grip strength, as well as a classic design.

Some reviewers have had issues with loose joints between the rod’s pieces, but masking or electrical tape can easily solve the issue. And with Daiwa’s 1-year limited warranty keeping your investment safe, the Daiwa D-Shock Freshwater Spinning Combo makes an excellent choice for any beginning bass angler.

Often found in slow-moving freshwater or brackish waters, bass come in a variety of subspecies. 6-10lbs Smallmouth prefer rocky waters with little vegetation, whereas 12-20lbs largemouth bass can be found in warm, weedy, slow-moving, or still waters.

20-70lbs striped basses are anadromous and can be found in saltwater as adults and freshwater streams during their youth. Most bass are predatory feeders and will lunge towards any potential prey — making them easy to hook but hard to land. We recommend using jigs or spinnerbaits in clear waters, preferably during spring or fall.

Although subtle, such differences typically come down to the cost and quality of materials. Although beginners may be happy to use hollowed rods and plastic drive gears, more advanced anglers should consider the lasting durability of higher-end brands.

What is the best fishing rod & reel combo for bass? The answer’s hard to find: Each of these models has impressed us, but the KastKing Crixus is our personal favorite. For an attractive, well-designed, and durable bass fishing combo, the KastKing Crixus is a perfect choice.