The CHEAPEST Spinning Rod & Reel You Can AFFORD!
- By: Luke Simonds
- on
Most anglers waste money on gear because they prioritize it the wrong way.
If you’re trying to maximize performance when throwing lures, you need to get your rod, reel, and line in the right order.
This video explains the order of importance for selecting spinning combos so that you can get the best performance for your budget.
Equipment Shown In Video
- Rod: Slam Stick – 7’6″ Medium
- Line: J-Braid 8 Grand
- Reel: Otis 2500
Step 1: The Rod is the Most Important
Your rod controls:
- Casting distance and accuracy
- Lure presentation
- Sensitivity to strikes
- Hookset power
If you skimp on your rod, you’ll struggle to cast accurately, detect bites, and land fish.
Our Recommended Setup:
- The New Slam Stick Rod – Lightweight, sensitive, and built for inshore fishing.
- Most affordable in it’s class (Insiders save $50!)
- Now available in medium and medium light power
Note: Insider Club members save 25% ($50) on the Slam Stick Rod with an addition $20 off if the Otis 2500 is purchased with it.
Step 2: Line is the Second Priority
A poor line choice can:
- Reduce casting distance
- Decrease sensitivity
- Cause more break-offs
Our Recommended Line: 10lb Daiwa J-Braid
Note: This line comes free with any reel purchased from the Fish Strong tackle store by Insider Club members.
Step 3: The Reel Comes Last
A quality reel is important, but it doesn’t need to be the most expensive part of your setup. Focus on:
- Lightweight build to reduce fatigue
- Smooth drag to fight fish effectively
- Reliable performance at a reasonable price
Our Recommended Setup:
- The Otis 2500 Spinning Reel – Lightweight at 7.1 oz, smooth, and durable.
- Insider members save $50+ on this reel
- Plus get free braid with any reel purchase.
Note: Insider Club members save 30% ($51) on the Otis 2500.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Setup Without Overspending
For the best performance and value:
- Invest in a high-quality rod first – It makes the biggest difference
- Use the right line – Go with thin braid for longer casts and better sensitivity
- Choose a good reel – But don’t overpay when your rod and line do most of the work
Think You’re Missing Fish You Should Be Catching?
It’s not just about gear or secret spots… it’s about seeing the patterns other anglers overlook.
Inside the Insider Club, you’ll unlock the full Smart Fishing Spots app, exclusive courses, direct access to regional coaches, and a 63,000+ strong community sharing real-time wins.
👉 Click here to see what most anglers will never know.
Let’s Talk!
Related categories:
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish ever trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
When will the Otis 2500 be in stock?
Our next shipment of Otis 2500 reels is expected early next week (perhaps even before the end of this week).
Having vehicle issues with 7 1/2’ one piece rod. Any recommendations for a good 2 piece inshore rod?
Still love my TFO pro and Daiwa Fuego.
Any thoughts on tarpon rods?
Here’s a post about selecting a good tarpon rod: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/best-tarpon-rod/
I like bullbay sniper
Great information, thank you. I keep learning more and more everyday.
I’ve been using a Walmart special and a BPS special. The spinning combo is the Shakespeare MH 7′ with an Aspen reel. It works well but I think the guides are cutting into my line now. My baitcaster is a Bill Dance zebco reel and rod. MH 7′ left hand retrieve. 6:1 gr I believe. I just loaded them with 20 lb 8x Power Pro braid. Not crazy about this braid.
Great session! Really helped a lot – thanks,
Always enjoy reading/watching yall “endorse” a practical option like this vs. the typical name brand expensive options!
Great video and information Luke… !