Daiwa D-Shock DSK FW Spin PMC, 6'/Medium Light, Black/Gold

Product Information

The reels we’ve selected are fairly even on this front, though there are standouts. Of course, a larger spool typically translates into a bigger reel, so there are trade-offs. The 6-foot, 6-inch rod sports a fiberglass blank that’s ideal for throwing and working crankbaits, jerkbaits, and topwater lures. With all the treble hooks involved, stiffness isn’t essential, and the cushion on the hookset afforded by fiberglass is a plus. Not the most sensitive rod, I’d skip the soft plastics and single-hook applications with it. Shakespeare’s Ugly Stik has earned a reputation for no-nonsense toughness, but its fiberglass blank just isn’t as sensitive as many anglers would like. That’s why the GX2 includes a graphite core, providing greater stiffness and sensitivity than the Ugly Stiks of old, while still offering unbeatable durability. But others don’t agree. Essentially, they argue that they bought high-dollar superlines to use them to their capacity, and when fishing heavy cover, they’ll set the drag to the maximum. At that point, they’re relying on the line, knot, and rod as a solid connection, and the idea is to drag bass from the nasty stuff.

This reel also boasts Daiwa’s Twist Buster technology. This advanced technology has been designed to greatly reduce line twist. Not only does Twist Buster reduce line twist but it also reduces further friction between the line and the roller.Moderate fast rods allow a bit more flex than faster options, offering some cushion for hooksets--often a desirable trait with crankbaits and jerkbaits. This can prevent anglers from snatching a sharp treble-hook clear of a fish’s mouth, and it still provides plenty of sensitivity at the tip. Moderate Medium rods are great for a variety of applications, from running crankbaits and jerkbaits, to yo-yoing swimbaits off the bottom. Great with live bait, too, there’s not much they can’t do--making them an extremely popular all-around choice. And as a finesse rod for largemouth applications like weightless senkos and drop shotting, it’s very hard to beat. The Centron combo is hard to beat, and if you’re looking for a spinning combo for freshwater, it’s a good place to start. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 - Toughest Combo

Ultralight rods are designed to provide the ultimate in sensitivity and excitement, increasing the feel of small fish on your line. Designed primarily for panfish species like sunfish, bluegill, crappie, and perch, they can also be used by experienced anglers to catch large- and small-mouth bass and trout.I’ll be reporting line capacity in monofilament weights. Keep in mind that you can switch to braid and either get far more line on the reel or step-up in weight to a 4- or 6-pound mono equivalent diameter. In shorter lengths, heavy rods are a good choice for shark, grouper, tarpon, and other massive saltwater species. They’re also popular for lake trout and trophy pike. The reels we’ll recommend have a well-earned reputation for durability, making the most of your money. And while we’re not beholden to any manufacturers--we tell the truth, good or bad, about every product--three names are worth remembering: Daiwa, Shimano, and Lews.