10 Best Crappie Rod and Reel Combo | Tested and Reviewed

best crappie rod and reel combo

I am an avid angler who loves to fish for crappie. I know that using the right gear can make all the difference when it comes to catching these elusive fish.

The crappie rod and reel combo are affordable for fishermen of all levels. It is a great starter set for those who are just beginning to learn how to fish, but it also comes with various fishing rods and reels, depending on the type of fish you want to catch.

I’ve put together this article about the best crappie rod and reel combo.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding crappie fishing is critical to selecting the right gear.
  • The best crappie rod and reel combo should be sensitive, durable, and easy to use.

The Crappie is the Classic Fish of Summer:

Crappies are a classic fish of summer, and they’re found in lakes, streams, rivers, and the ocean. Crappie fishing is a popular sport that can be enjoyed by beginners and experts alike.

The crappie is also an excellent bait fish. It tastes similar to shad, bass, or minnows, making it easy to attract bigger fish while fishing for crappies.

What is a Crappie Rod & Reel Combo?

Crappie rods and reels are designed to be used in the freshwater fishing game. These two pieces of equipment are designed with different functions and purposes.

Crappie rods and reels vary in length, weight, size, number of hooks, and types of bait. They are primarily made out of fiberglass or graphite. They also come in a variety of different colors that are used for camouflage purposes.

5 Reasons to Buy a Crappie Rod and Reel Combo:

This fishing rod set is ideal for beginners and experts alike. The reel is made from lightweight aluminum that allows for smooth casting, while the rod has a telescopic design that is adjustable for different types of fish. Crappie fishing is an ideal sport for beginners to learn and enjoy. For many reasons, beginners should invest in a crappie rod, reel, and fishing rod combination.

  • The quality of crappie rods is unmatched.
  • Crappies are usually small, so catching them with a light tackle setup is easier.
  • Crappies have a unique way of fighting: they strike the water with their tails and swim away quickly.
  • Crappies are one of the easiest fish to catch on light tackle.
  • It is important to get the best quality gear for your money.

Benefits of Using a Crappie Rod and Reel Combo:

Even though the crappier rod and reel combo is more affordable, it still has its benefits. For example, it is easier to cast far distances with this setup.

  • The crappier rod and reel combo can be a great option for beginning fishermen who want to get into the sport without spending too much money.
  • It also allows them to practice their skills without having to purchase a lot of expensive gear.
  • The crappier rod and reel combo can also be used as a backup fishing rig when you are out of luck on your primary fishing rig.

THE BEST Best Crappie Rod and Reel Combos AT A GLANCE!

1Best Over All
Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

3 ball bearings plus one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing for smoother gear feel and instant hook sets. Machined double anodized aluminum spool with oversized bail wire for improved durability.

2Value For The Money
Cadence Spinning Rod

Fishing poles offer high-performance premium features at an unbeatable value. Fishing with quality, dependable gear should not mean breaking the bank.

3Best Over All
13 FISHING – Origin TX / Fate Green – Baitcast Combos

Bait casters get in the action at inshore fishing, throwing lures close to docks where accuracy is crucial.

4Strong Plated Metal Frame
Lew’s Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy Jig/Troll Spinning Crappie Combo

Lew’s Mr. Crappie Rod is the perfect fishing companion for all your favorite freshwater gamefish. It’s a premium, 2-piece rod blank with a unique rod length label indicator, EVA foam handle grips, and a Crappie specific action.

5Affordable
KastKing Centron Spinning Reel

Lightweight and Sensitive Toray IM6 Graphite Blanks – Centron Spinning Combos feature a sensitive and light-weight Toray IM6 Graphite blank designed to provide exceptional value and performance for all anglers.

6Strong and Corrosion
Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

Corrosion resistant stainless steel ball bearings and allows braid to be tied directly to spool with aircraft grade aluminum, extreme durability and high modulus graphite blank construction, lightweight sensitivity.

7For Ice Fishing
Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing Rod Reel Combo

Versatile multispecies rod design great for Walleye, Perch, Trout and Panfish like Crappie, Bluegill and Sunfish.

8With 2-Piece Rod Blank
Zebco Crappie Fighter Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

The Zebco Crappie Fighter Spinning reel and the fishing rod have a bi-color depth locating line with a high-vis rod tip to find light crappie bites. 

9For Long Time Fishing
Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

This Reel Has 13 + 1 Corrosion Resistant Smooth Ball Bearings, Precision Matched Gears and a Powerful 5.5:1 Gear Ratio.Give It Ultra-Smooth Performance.

Top 10 Best Crappie Rod and Reel Combo:

A crappie rod and reel combo can be an excellent choice for those who want to start fishing without investing too much money. Many options are available in the market, but it gets difficult, especially for beginners, to choose a combo.

Following is a list of the top 10 combos which will make your selection easy and give you the confidence to enjoy your fishing journey; let’s have a look.

1. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

Ugly Stik GX2
  • Length: 6 feet
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning
  • Handle Material: Aluminum

Review!

The Ugly Stik GX2 line is the best choice for serious fly fishermen, inshore saltwater anglers, and bait casters who need a reliable and sturdy rod that will stand up to the wear and tear of hard-working days on the water.

Never bow out when the stakes are high. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reels are made with 3 ball bearings, a one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing, and a machined aluminum spool with oversized bail wire. These features provide an instant hook set you’ll feel during every cast.

The Ugly Stik GX2 is the latest in fishing reel technology. With a 5:5:1 ratio, 4 bearings, and a 140/6lb mono cap, this reel will provide more durability and a more realistic casting distance. The compression bail springs found in the Ugly Stik GX2 give the user an increased reel life span which is why it is a highly recommended product for all levels of anglers.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous
  • Rod is strong enough to catch heavy fish.
  • Casts very well.
  • Enough smooth reel with four ball bearings.

Cons

  • The spinning reel quality is lower than the rod.

2. Cadence Spinning Rod

cadence rod
  • Color: Red
  • Fishing technique: Spinning
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Item Weight: 0.05 kg

Review!

When you expect your gear to perform to catch more fish, call the Cadence Spinning Rods. They’re affordable, beautifully crafted, and designed to perform. Cadence spinning rods are made with high-grade components and come at a great price.

Cadence Spinning Rod is the perfect option for beginners, intermediate players, and pro anglers seeking high-quality rod construction with extreme performance. Made from a 30-ton carbon matrix graphite blank, the CR5 offers strength, sensitivity, and lightweight. Ideal for game fish, including freshwater fish like bass, walleye, and trout, and popular inshore species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder with a rinse after fishing.

Cadence Spinning Rod, CR5- is the finest, most affordable 2-piece spinning rod you can buy. Its unique 2 piece design allows it to fit in the car, trunk, and boat hatch more than traditional one-piece rods. If you’re an avid fisherman, this rod is for you!

Pros

  • Size and action options available.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Casts well
  • Excellent guides.

Cons

  • Breakable.

3. Lew’s Mr. Crappie Slab Daddy Jig/Troll Spinning Crappie Combo

Lews fishing rod
  • Color: Multi
  • Material: Blend
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning, Casting
  • Package weight: 0.36 kg

Review!

Lew’s Mr. Crappie is an ideal choice if you are serious about crappie fishing providing you with all the essential features required. This combo has all the premium features that any angler has.

Mr. Crappie Reel is an exclusive product that offers high quality. The reel consists of a graphite body and rotor with a dual-bearing construction, whereas the spool and the drag knob are chrome plated for excellence. It is available with a pre-spooled premium crappie line with superior strength, making it a perfect choice.

Lew’s Mr. Crappie Rod is the perfect fishing companion for all your favorite freshwater gamefish. It’s a premium, 2-piece rod blank with a unique rod length label indicator, EVA foam handle grips, and a Crappie specific action.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous
  • Works very well for crappy fishing.

Cons

  • Only one size is available.

4. KastKing Centron Spinning Reel

Kastking Centron rod
  • Rod Length: 6,7,8 feet
  • Color: Black, Blue
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Fishing Technique: Spinning

Review!

Premium quality that you can feel, KastKing is the next step in spinning reels. Every reel features a lightweight and sensitive blank designed for anglers of all skill levels. Centron Spinning Combos are available in lengths from 6′ for Bass, Trout, and Panfish and go all the way to 8′ for Catfish, Steelhead, and even Salmon!

The most important part of your fishing rod is the backbone. KastKing’s Centron spinning rods are built with high-quality, lightweight stainless steel guides that last for years. The fighting butt is contoured to provide a comfortable grip and a sure hold while providing maximum balance and accuracy. The split rear handles are used on the 6′ to 7′ all-purpose models to offer an extra option to hand size up or down.

The KastKing Centron is the definition of a perfect match. Each combo includes a perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel that matches the rod and the type of fish it is intended for. It also features a 5.2:1 or 4.5:1 gear ratio, 9+1 Maxi-Dur ball bearings, an anti-twist line roller, a lightweight graphite frame, and an aluminum spool.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous
  • Size variations available
  • Reasonable price.

Cons

  • Grips not comfortable.

5. Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

Pflueger fishing combo
  • Length: 6.5
  • Material: Blend
  • Fishing technique: Spinning
  • Package weight: 0.39 kg

Review!

Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and has a 10 Bearing System, which allows for easy and even winding. The Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is also suitable for saltwater fishing and has a braid-ready spool, allowing the spool to be quickly untwisted to be tied directly onto the spool.

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The Pflueger President Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. It comes standard with our I-M8 graphite blank, a lightweight blank that provides excellent sensitivity and durability.

Spinning the bait has always been challenging. With a one-of-a-kind technology, Pflueger President Spinning reel and fishing rod is an innovative new way to improve your fishing experience. It’s the strongest, lightest, and most corrosion-resistant guide system.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous.
  • Ultra light and sensitive
  • Very strong

Cons

  • The Reel may feel smaller.
  • Pole guides are low quality.

6. Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing Rod Reel Combo

Tailored tackled fishing rod
  • Rod length: 28 inches
  • Item weight: 1 pound
  • Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Fishing technique: ice

Review!

Are you a passionate angler? Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing is a versatile fishing rod and reel combo for anglers of all skill levels. The versatile design is great for Walleye, Perch, Trout, and Panfish like crappies, Bluegill, and Sunfish. The line rating of 3-6 pounds makes this a great rod for targeting bigger fish. With an extra fast rod action, no worm could slip by undetected.

No need to spend hundreds of dollars on a new fishing rod when you can buy this one! Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing Rod Reel Combo is a top-of-the-line fishing rod designed for those slippery days out on the ice. It features 5 ball bearings, a powerful gear ratio, and an ice-temp-tested smooth reel. The soft-touch knob will ensure that you’re comfortable using this reel.

It also includes a line capacity of 200 yards for light line fishing and 100 for heavier line fishing needs. This product also has an ergonomic grip, cork handle, carbon fiber rod blank, and base for backbone and durability.

Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing Rod Reel Combo is a unique fishing rod and reel combo to catch all the popular fish through the ice. Featuring a lightweight, 100% waterproof, and high-quality design for superior performance and maximum durability.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous.
  • Feels very smooth and solid drag.
  • Sensitivity is very good.
  • Made with extra protection for durability.

Cons

  • Shorter length
  • Mostly made for ice fishing.

7. Zebco Crappie Fighter Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

Zebco fishing combo
  • Item weight: 0.42 pounds
  • Material: Blend
  • Color: Black
  • Size: 10 ft, 2pc

Review!

Want to put your best foot forward when fishing for crappie? Here’s the perfect accessory for you! This 10″ long rod blank is printed with a ruler that tells you how long it is, so you never need to worry about measuring it from the ground or your arm again. You’ll be able to fish longer with total confidence and accuracy.

Get the depth you need to catch those crappies. The Zebco Crappie Fighter Spinning reel and the fishing rod have a bi-color depth locating line with a high-vis rod tip to find light crappie bites. 

This deal is great for those who are on a budget.It has a reel that feels ultra-light with a ball-bearing drive and a fast-action light-powered rod for immediate detection of fish bites. It is very easy to use as it can be changed easily from left hand to right hand.

Pros

  • Both hand orientations are available.
  • Affordable price.
  • Good for beginners.
  • Ultra-light and sensitive enough.

Cons

  • More durable than others.
  • Fishing lines break easily.

8. Cadence CC4 Spinning Combo

Cadence combo set
  • Length: 6.6 inches
  • Color: White, Black
  • Item Weight: 0.11Pounds
  • Material: Stainless steel, Aluminium

Review!

The Cadence CC4 spinning reel & rod combo is perfect for anyone who loves fishing. The reel has superior corrosion resistance & easy access, while the rod is lightweight and comes equipped with a comfortable oversized ergonomic EVA handle knob. 

The model CS4 spinning reel offers high-quality performance, including Power Grip Reel Handle, a carbon composite frame, stainless steel guides and inserts, and aluminum pinion gear. If you’re looking for a new combo, this is it!

The Cadence CC4 Spinning Combo offers the highest quality and best value spinning reel. This reel is made with quality components and materials that surpass the competition, including a 24-ton carbon blank and 7-ball bearings. The carbon composite frame and side plates make the CC4 strong and corrosion-resistant. The reels are smooth, corrosion-resistant, and built to last. The Cadence CC4 Spinning Combo integrates with any fishing load you want to throw at it.

The Cadence CC4 spinning combo comes pre-mounted with our CS4 spinning reel and CC4 rod, providing tremendous value for the angler. This combo features a fast-track drag system and an ultra-smooth power head, perfect for gamefish, including freshwater fish like bass, walleye, and trout, and popular inshore species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.

Pros

  • Length variations available.
  • Well balanced with lighter weight.
  • Durable and protective material used.

Cons

  • Rod and reel combo not braided ready.
  • Rod breakable.

9. Sougayilang Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

Sougayilang fishing combo
  • Item weight: 1.1 pounds
  • Material: Other
  • Package weight: 0.7 kg
  • Gearbox ratio: 5:5

Review!

The fishing rod is light, strong, and easy to use. This rod is manufactured with High-Density Carbon Fiber combined with Fiberglass by SIC, which makes it hard and durable, and SIC Ceramic makes the guide ring. The heat dissipation is better when it’s wrapped in an epoxy resin adhesion

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If you’re in the market for a high-performance spinning reel, look no further than Sougayilang’s Spinning Fish reel. This reel has 13 + 1 corrosion-resistant smooth ball bearings and precision-matched gears along with a powerful 5.5:1 gear ratio–all of which makes it able to deliver amazing performance.

It also has an extra exquisite aluminum spool with an aerospace-grade aluminum honeycomb design that gives you strength and lightweight. The EVA knob on this spinning rod holder makes it non-slip and more comfortable when fished for long periods.

The Sougayilang Spinning rod reel is a lightweight, easy-to-carry fishing rod and reel combo that easily fits in your car trunk, boat, or backpack. You’ll be able to stay fresh with this spinning reel, and you’ll also have a little fun when you’re not fishing.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous.
  • Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater.
  • Kit variations available.
  • Very good portability.

Cons

  • Breakable.

10. Zebco Bullet Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

zebco bullet fishing combo
  • Rod length: 6, 6.5 feet
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Blend
  • Fishing Technique: Spincasting

Review!

Zebco Bullet Spincast Rod has a tough graphite rod blank construction and tough aluminum-oxide guides providing smooth cast and retrieves. The durable MaxTac rod handle ensures a secure grip for the all-day cast. The Bullet Spincast Rod is designed to hold an 8-12 pound line weight and 1/4-5/8 oz lure weights.

Zebco’s instant anti-reverse clutch is the perfect little machine for the guy or gal who wants to catch a fish but hates trying to fish. The product’s simple and effective design provides excellent control and keeps the reel from moving backward. You can also easily change your retrieve to a left- or right-hand retrieve, and the sturdy gear is resistant to rust.

Zebco Bullet Spincast Reels are made with the highest quality materials and are built to last. And with their lightweight design, they’re easy to carry and store. This spincast reel features 29.6 inches per turn – Zebco’s fastest ever! With a 5.1:1 gear ratio and a ZeroFriction dual-bearing supported pick-up pin design, you’ll have a buttery-smooth retrieve every time.

Pros

  • Ambidextrous
  • Beginner skill level

Cons

  • Breakable

Top 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Rod & Reel Combo: Buyer’s Guide

To make your life easier, here are some tips for choosing the best fishing rod and reel combo:

  • Consider your budget: The most important thing when choosing a rod and reel combo is finding one that fits your budget. It’s wise to go out of your way only if you want something new or fancy.
  • Choose based on what you want to fish: There are different types of rods and reels for different types of fishing. For example, if you’re going bass fishing, you should choose a spinning reel with a medium-sized baitcasting rod rather than a baitcasting reel with a long-sized light-action rod.
  • Choose based on what type of fish you want to catch: If you love to catch big fish, you’ll want a stronger rod and reel than someone who only likes catching small freshwater trout.
  • Choose based on what type of fishing you like: If you enjoy casting out to sea with a spinning reel, consider buying a saltwater fishing rod and reel.
  • Choose based on what types of fish are common in your area: If you live in the United States, choose a fly rod and reel combo for catching large trout or salmon rather than one that would be more suited for snakehead in China.
  • Consider how much time you want to spend fishing: If you have only a few hours and are not interested in catching fish with a fly rod, choose a smaller-sized reel for your rod and attach it to any telescoping fishing pole.

Conclusion:

A crappie rod and reel combo presents a splendid option for novices seeking to delve into the realm of fishing without excessive financial commitments. Within the package lies everything essential to initiate one’s pursuit of crappie fishing, leaving no crucial components behind.

One must adhere to the guidelines or approach the selection process thoughtfully, considering personal requirements and prevailing fishing conditions. Another hassle-free option is to peruse our curated list for a straightforward decision.

FAQs!!

  1. What size rod is best for crappie?

    The recommended rod for crappie fishing is a 7-8 feet-spinning rod. Some people also prefer a longer rod with medium light action and enough load and tip to send a small 1/16-ounce jig.

  2. What colors work best for crappie?

    Blue-white and purple-white are the most suitable for deep waters. Lime and orange are better options in stained waters with brighter green lights.

  3. What gear ratio is best for crappie fishing?

    The preferred gear ratio is dependent upon the fishing conditions. Most spinning reels have a gear ratio of 5 to 6.4, which is enough for crappie fishing.

  4. What is the best setup for crappie?

    he best setup for crappie includes a light or ultralight power rod, a spinning reel, and 4-6 lb test monofilament line. Jigs, small spinners, and live minnows are effective baits.

  5. What rod power is best for crappie?

    A light or ultralight power rod is best for crappie, as they have sensitive tips that allow for better detection of bites and help avoid spooking the fish. 

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