When buying any rod and reel combo, you have to make sure it's something that will work for the type of fishing you plan to do.
If you're eyeing spinning combos, you have a little more wiggle room. Because they boast more versatility than your baitcast reels or conventionals, durability and longevity are what you really want to pay attention to.
Here are three spinning combos that will perform at a high level and last you a long time.
Abu Garcia Pro Max
Abu Garcia features a fairly wide selection of spinning combos, but there are three that have been around a long time and mostly dominate their midsize options: the Black Max, the Silver Max and the Pro Max. All come at a pretty affordable price—the Black Max being the cheapest and the Pro Max being the most expensive of the three.
Remember, spinning combos boast durability and versatility, meaning this will be the rod you'll always have that you can do just about anything with.
You might as well spend $20 more and get yourself the Pro Max. The reel boasts six ball bearings plus one roller bearing, which provides a very smooth operation. Its 24-Ton graphite rod offers strength, but also sensitivity to vibrations.
Abu Garcia Catfish Commando
Catfishing is very unique in that the fish you catch can vary so much in size. You can go out and land 20 or more 5-pound channel catfish one night, and then land a 50-pound blue catfish the next.
That being said, having a solid spinning combo for catfish that will work in any situation is worthwhile. The Catfish Commando is just that.
It's affordable at around $80, and it also features three ball bearings plus one roller bearing. Its Carbon Matrix hybrid drag system will go the distance, making this combo one that will last you a long, long time.
Abu Garcia Cardinal Bruiser
Designed as a low-budget saltwater combo, the Bruiser is perfect for some low-budget surf fishing. If you're the type of person who only fishes during your annual family vacation to the beach, this is just what you want.
It's inexpensive so you can buy a few for the family, and they'll last you for many years to come, despite the effects of sand and saltwater.
The Bruiser will do just fine from the pier or the surf, and it's a relatively high performer for on $40 or so. It features a four-bearing drive as well as a tough EVA-handle rod ready for saltwater.
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