10 Best Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable and durable fishing setup. Its 7-foot rod length offers a good balance between casting distance and control, making it versatile enough for various fishing environments. Built with Ugly Tech Construction, combining graphite and fiberglass, this rod provides both strength and sensitivity, which helps you feel bites without worrying about breaking your rod easily. The clear tip design adds extra sensitivity for better fish detection.

This combo is medium power rated, suitable for handling fish line weights up to 15 pounds, making it ideal for targeting species like bass and other medium-sized fish. The 4-piece design and included cloth travel bag add convenience for travel and storage. The reel is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and has a decent retrieve rate, making it easy to use and maintain.

The medium power and lure rating of 1/8 to 5/8 ounce might limit its use for heavier fishing tasks or very large fish. While the combo is ambidextrous, beginners might need some time to get comfortable with the reel’s gear ratio and handle. The clear tip suggests moderate flexibility and sensitivity. This combo suits casual and intermediate anglers who want a tough, travel-friendly rod and reel that can handle common freshwater fishing scenarios. Its durability and 10-year warranty are strong selling points. For specialized rod needs like heavy-duty or saltwater fishing, options with higher power and different action types may be more appropriate.

The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and 6'6" Fishing Rod Combo offers a great balance of toughness and sensitivity, making it a solid choice for many anglers, especially those interested in bass fishing. Its 6.5-foot length is versatile, suitable for casting in different environments without being too bulky. The rod's medium power means it’s strong enough for a good range of fish sizes, although it might feel a bit light if you’re targeting larger, heavier species. The combination of graphite and fiberglass in the rod’s construction provides durability and flexibility, which helps prevent breakage while giving you enough feel to detect bites thanks to the clear tip design. The foam split handle offers a comfortable grip for longer fishing sessions.

The reel included has a smooth gear ratio of 5.2:1 and a good line retrieve rate, so you can reel in your catch efficiently. Its corrosion-resistant aluminum spool and stainless steel guides mean it can handle exposure to water well and reduce line wear. However, the line capacity and strength are best suited for lines up to 15 pounds, which limits its use for heavier fishing lines or very large fish.

This combo delivers a dependable, beginner-friendly setup that feels balanced in hand and comes with a reassuring 10-year warranty, making it a smart pick for casual and intermediate anglers looking for quality and value.

The Ugly Stik 6'6" GX2 Spinning Combo is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile fishing rod and reel set. Its 6.5-foot length offers a good balance, making it suitable for a variety of fishing situations, especially for targeting species like bass. The rod features a medium power rating, providing enough strength for average-sized fish without being too stiff or too flexible, which is great for beginners and casual anglers.

Constructed with a mix of graphite and fiberglass, the rod benefits from Ugly Stik's Clear Tip technology, which combines strength with sensitivity. This means you can feel subtle bites while still having a durable rod that can handle some rough use. The handle is made with EVA foam, offering comfort and durability during long fishing sessions. The two-piece design also makes it easy to transport.

The combo includes a size 35 reel with a smooth 4-ball bearing system and a 5.2:1 gear ratio, providing ease of use and quick hook sets thanks to the instant anti-reverse feature. The reel’s construction is designed for longevity, including features like compression bail springs and a machined spool. This Ugly Stik combo is a dependable, comfortable, and reasonably priced option that works well for most adult anglers looking for a balance of sensitivity and durability in a spinning rod and reel set.