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Best Rod And Reel Combo For Catfish (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an ideal fishing experience, you’ll need a perfectly matched rod and reel combo. When it comes to catfishing, it's important to consider some factors before buying the right rod and reel combo. You want to make sure that you have a unit that will be strong enough to handle the size and weight of catfish and durable enough to withstand a lot of wear and tear.

One essential factor to consider when buying a rod and reel combo for catfishing is the power and action of the rod. Rod power is classified according to its strength, from ultra-light to heavy-duty. Rod action, on the other hand, refers to the flexibility of the rod. You'll want to choose a rod and reel combo that has a good balance between power and action to ensure you can handle big catfish without the rod snapping on you.

Are you tired of coming back from a fishing trip with an almost empty basket? Do you want to increase your chances of catching more catfish? Well, choosing the right rod and reel combo can make all the difference. Are you ready to take your catfishing experience up a notch? Keep reading to learn what else you need to consider before making a purchase.

10 Best Rod And Reel Combo For Catfish

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for heavy-duty spinning applications, including freshwater and saltwater fishing.
2
Ideal for catching catfish with a durable fishing rod and reel combo that has medium heavy power.
3
The product is ideal for recreational fishing with its sturdy fiberglass pole and quickset anti-reverse fishing reel.
4
Ideal for catfishing and spinning techniques. Durable, reliable and sensitive for catching fish in freshwater or saltwater.
5
The product is ideal for fishing with its durable rod, quickset anti-reverse feature, and pre-spooled with fishing line.
6
Ideal for catching catfish with heavy duty spinning/trolling rod, baitfeeder reel and tackle equipment on a boat.
7
Ideal for catfish angling, this combo includes a conventional reel and medium-heavy fiberglass rod.
8
This product is ideal for fishing with a conventional reel and an 8-foot, 2-piece rod, pre-spooled with high strength line.
9
This product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts looking for a durable and reliable spinning reel and rod combo.
10
This product is ideal for fishing with a spinning reel and medium-sized three-piece rod.
Ideal for heavy-duty spinning applications, including freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Ideal for catching catfish with a durable fishing rod and reel combo that has medium heavy power.
The product is ideal for recreational fishing with its sturdy fiberglass pole and quickset anti-reverse fishing reel.
Ideal for catfishing and spinning techniques. Durable, reliable and sensitive for catching fish in freshwater or saltwater.
The product is ideal for fishing with its durable rod, quickset anti-reverse feature, and pre-spooled with fishing line.
Ideal for catching catfish with heavy duty spinning/trolling rod, baitfeeder reel and tackle equipment on a boat.
Ideal for catfish angling, this combo includes a conventional reel and medium-heavy fiberglass rod.
This product is ideal for fishing with a conventional reel and an 8-foot, 2-piece rod, pre-spooled with high strength line.
This product is ideal for fishing enthusiasts looking for a durable and reliable spinning reel and rod combo.
This product is ideal for fishing with a spinning reel and medium-sized three-piece rod.

1. Kastking Centron Spinning Combos,8ft Heavy-Full Handle,5000 Reel

The KastKing Centron Spinning Combos are designed for all anglers who want exceptional value and performance from their gear. These combos feature sensitive and light-weight Toray IM6 Graphite blanks that provide exceptional value and performance for all anglers. The Centron spinning combos are 2-piece and come in lengths from 6’ to 8’, making them ideal for Bass, Trout, Panfish, Catfish, Steelhead and even Salmon.

The Centron Spinning Combos come equipped with strong and durable stainless-steel guides that have premium O-ring inserts, making them perfect for mono or braided lines. The lightweight stainless frames look great and keep the weight down for a perfectly balanced rod blank. The contoured EVA handles and fighting butt provide all-day comfort and a sure grip while providing for a perfectly balanced rod. The 6’ to 7’ all-purpose combos feature split rear handles, while the 7’6” medium-heavy and 8’ heavy action combos come with full-length EVA handles, making them perfect for catfish, salmon/steelhead or other large fish.

Each combo includes a perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel that matches the rod and the type of fish that it is intended for. The reel sizes start at a compact 2000 and go all the way up to a powerful 5000 that is perfect for the 8’ heavy action rod intended for Catfish, Salmon and Steelhead. The KastKing Centron spinning reel 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. The super smooth reel action is complemented by a powerful triple disc felt drag system.

Overall, the KastKing Centron Spinning Combos offer premium reel specs at a value price, making them the perfect choice for anglers who want high-quality gear without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Sensitive and light-weight Toray IM6 Graphite blanks
  • Strong and durable stainless-steel guides with premium O-ring inserts
  • Contoured EVA handles and fighting butt provide all-day comfort and a sure grip
  • Perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel included with each combo
  • Super smooth reel action complemented by a powerful triple-disc felt drag system
  • Premium reel specs at a value price

2. Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod And Reel Combo, 7 Feet, Medium Heavy Power, Black

The Baitcast fishing rod and reel combo is an excellent choice for catfish anglers. It is specially engineered to provide a smooth and efficient performance with its 2 stainless ball bearings. The clarity of this combo is superb, which allows for ultra-low visibility, and it's perfect for catching catfish. The 6-pin centrifugal bracket is noteworthy as it applies consistent pressure, which results in an exceptionally precise cast. Its durable yet lightweight composite blank construction gives it bold styling and makes it easy to handle. The line rating of this combo is 15-30 pounds.

In summary, if you're looking for a high-quality baitcasting combo for catfish angling, the Baitcast fishing rod and reel combo is an excellent choice. With its smoothness, superb clarity, precise cast, and durable yet lightweight construction, it is perfect for any catfish angler.

Pros

  • Specially engineered for catfish angling
  • Smooth performance with 2 stainless ball bearings
  • Superb clarity with excellent transparency for ultra-low visibility
  • 6-pin centrifugal bracket for an exceptionally precise cast
  • Durable yet lightweight composite blank construction with bold styling

3. Big Cat Combo: Spincast Rod And Reel

Experience effortless fishing with the Zebco 7-foot 2-piece fishing rod combo. Designed to provide medium-heavy power, this rod makes it easier to catch medium to heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, striper, and more. It can hold a line weight of 8-17 pounds and 1/4 – 3/4 oz lure weights. The durable fiberglass rod blank construction and heavy-duty 5+ tip guides provide smooth casts and retrieves, while the extended foam EVA handle provides all-day comfort and a sure-grip. The QuickSet anti-reverse feature stops your reel handle from moving backward and creates a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prized catch. It also features a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve and comes pre-spooled with 20-pound Zebco line. With premium all-metal gears, a 2.6:1 gear ratio, and a ceramic pick-up pin, this fishing rod combo ensures a buttery-smooth retrieve, extended life, and ultra-high abrasion resistance for every fishing experience. Trust the brand that has been inviting people to explore the outdoors since 1949. Plus, Zebco products are warranted for a period of one year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials.

Pros

  • Durable fiberglass rod blank construction and heavy-duty 5+ tip guides provide smooth casts and retrieves
  • Extended foam EVA handle provides all-day comfort and a sure-grip
  • QuickSet anti-reverse feature creates a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prized catch
  • Premium all-metal gears, a 2.6:1 gear ratio, and a ceramic pick-up pin ensures a buttery-smooth retrieve, extended life, and ultra-high abrasion resistance
  • Comes pre-spooled with 20-pound Zebco line
  • Zebco products are warranted for a period of one year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials

4. Ugly Stik® Catfish Spinning Combo

Experience a fantastic fishing adventure with the medium-heavy action spinning rod and reel combo. This combo includes a 50 size spinning reel and a one-piece stainless steel guide rod. The rod features Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides that eliminate insert pop-outs for a smooth performance. The clear tip design enhances sensitivity while maintaining the strength and durability that Ugly Stik is known for.

The 50 size spinning reel features a one-way clutch instant Anti-Reverse bearing that ensures a solid hookset every time. The reel also has a durable aluminum spool that can withstand the toughest fishing conditions. This combo is perfect for catching a variety of fish species and is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

The medium-heavy action spinning rod and reel combo is designed to enhance your fishing experience. The Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides and the Ugly Stik clear tip design provide excellent sensitivity and strength. The 50 size spinning reel features a reliable one-way clutch instant Anti-Reverse bearing and a durable aluminum spool. This combo is perfect for both beginner and experienced anglers.

Pros

  • Medium-heavy action rod and reel combo suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing
  • Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs for a smooth performance
  • Ugly Stik clear tip design enhances sensitivity while maintaining strength and durability
  • 50 size spinning reel features a one-way clutch instant Anti-Reverse bearing for a solid hookset
  • Durable aluminum spool can withstand the toughest fishing conditions

5. Zebco 808 Fishing Combo: Bite-Alert Rod And Reel

The Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Combo is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. Featuring a QuickSet Anti-Reverse system, it provides a smooth and reliable operation that prevents the handle from turning in the opposite direction. Its built-in Bite Alert mechanism notifies you with a clicking sound when a fish bites the bait. The dial-adjustable Magnum drag allows you to adjust the drag to fit the fishing conditions and catch larger fish with ease. The all-metal gears and ceramic pick-up pin ensure the combo's durability and longevity. The combo comes pre-spooled with a 20 lb Zebco line, making it ready to use right out of the box.

The patented no-tangle design of the Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Combo ensures that the line doesn't tangle or knot, providing a hassle-free fishing experience. It also has a changeable right- or left-hand retrieve, making it suitable for both left- and right-handed anglers. The combo has a 2.6:1 gear ratio, 19 IPT, and a 145 yds/20 lb mono line capacity, making it ideal for use with lures weighing 1/2-2 oz.

The 2-piece 7-foot durable fiberglass rod of the Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Combo comes with a built-in hook keeper that secures the hook to the rod and prevents it from getting caught on other objects. The combo also has 6 shock-ring double-footed guides (5 + Tip), which reduce the stress on the line and prevent it from breaking. The rod has a fast action and medium-heavy power, making it suitable for catching a wide range of fish species. The twist-lock reel seat ensures that the reel stays securely attached to the rod, while the extended EVA handle provides a comfortable and firm grip.

Zebco is a trusted brand that has been helping people enjoy and discover the outdoors through fishing since 1954. The Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Combo comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials.

Pros

  • QuickSet Anti-Reverse system provides a smooth and reliable operation
  • Built-in Bite Alert mechanism notifies you when a fish bites the bait
  • Dial-adjustable Magnum drag allows you to adjust the drag to fit the fishing conditions
  • All-metal gears and ceramic pick-up pin ensure durability and longevity
  • Patented no-tangle design provides a hassle-free fishing experience
  • Changeable right- or left-hand retrieve makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed anglers
  • Fast action and medium-heavy power rod suitable for catching a wide range of fish species
  • Twist-lock reel seat ensures that the reel stays securely attached to the rod
  • Extended EVA handle provides a comfortable and firm grip
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty against defects in workmanship and/or materials

Cons

  • – Not suitable for catching larger fish species
  • – The 2.6:1 gear ratio may seem slow to some anglers

6. Catfishermen's Essential: Heavy-Duty Rod And Reel Combo

The Catfishing Combo Complete Kit is an all-in-one solution for anglers who want to catch big catfish. This kit includes a Portable 7’ Heavy Rod (2 Section) that is specifically designed for catfishing. Made of high-density carbon fiber, it is super strong yet sensitive. The durable EVA handles provide all-day casting and fish-fighting comfort. The baitfeeder fishing reel (Size 4000) is also included, along with a lure and rig binder, aluminum plier, fishing scissors, three-way triple swivels, soft worms, octopus circle hooks, sinker weights, fishing sinker slides, braided and nylon fishing lines, rolling swivels, and fishing floats. All accessories are selected with professionalism and expected to last for years, so you can save time, save money, and catch bigs with ease.

The setup is catch-ready and comes with all the accessories needed for making multiple catfish rigs. The kit includes 2oz sinkers, 6/0 hooks, 3-way swivels, heavy-duty braids, and mono lines. Simply rig them up with a piece of cut bait, hit the water, and you're ready to catch some giants. This catfish complete full kit goes far beyond those cheap telescopic kits you find out there.

The 95PCS Catfish Full Kit is perfect for beginners and pros. You can purchase a complete catfish combo at one time, reducing your time and unnecessary troubles. With this kit, you can have everything you need to start catfishing in one place.

Pros

  • All-in-one solution for catfishing
  • Specifically designed Portable 7’ Heavy Rod
  • High-density carbon fiber for super strength and sensitivity
  • Durable EVA handles for all-day casting and fish-fighting comfort
  • Catch-ready setup with all accessories needed for making multiple catfish rigs
  • 95PCS Catfish Full Kit is perfect for beginners and pros

7. Sougayilang Conventional Reel And Fiberglass Fishing Rod Combo, Medium Heavy For Catfish Angling

The Sougayilang TSSD 3000 reel is a high-performance and durable fishing reel that ensures even line lay and a smooth retrieve. Its multi-disc drag system is smooth and consistent, delivering pressure throughout the entire drag setting, making it a perfect tool for trophy hunters who want to go after the big fish. This round trolling reel is versatile and can catch all kinds of freshwater fish, such as bass, stripers, and catfish.

The Sougayilang TSSD reel features a glass rod blank with an EVA handle and aluminum oxide guides for improved performance and increased sensitivity. The reel also contains 2 stainless steel bearings and a stainless steel mixed with ceramic guide to make it more smooth and to avoid line sticking in the guides. Its carbon and glass fiber reinforced material ensures improved performance-action and increased sensitivity.

The fishing rod included with the TSSD reel is a balanced 6’/7’ medium-heavy fishing rod with high density EVA handles and stainless steel guides, making it comfortable to hold and easy to use for an extended period. The Sougayilang TSSD 3000 reel comes with a worry-free 1-year service. If you encounter any problems, please contact customer service, and they will solve it for you soon.

Pros

  • Smooth and consistent multi-disc drag system
  • Strong and durable glass rod blank with EVA handle and aluminum oxide guides
  • Can catch all kinds of freshwater fish
  • Carbon and glass fiber reinforced material for improved performance-action and increased sensitivity
  • Balanced 6’/7’ medium-heavy fishing rod with high density EVA handles and stainless steel guides
  • Worry-free 1-year service

8. Big Cat Combo: 8ft Rod, 30lb Line, Brass Drive

The Zebco Big Cat conventional reel and 8-foot 2-piece fishing rod combo is designed to make catfishing easier and more fun. With its medium-heavy power and moderate-fast action, this combo is perfect for catching medium and heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, striper, and more. The fishing rod is skillfully crafted from durable, heavy-duty fiberglass rod blank construction, has a graphite reel seat, built-in hook keeper, and a high-visibility rod tip to aid in seeing the slightest bite. The tough 6 + Tip double-footed stainless steel guides provide smooth casts and retrieves while the comfortable EVA rod handle provides all-day comfort and a sure-grip. It is designed to hold 10-40 pound line weight and 1/4-2 ounce lure weights.

Zebco's QuickSet Anti-Reverse clutch is easy to use and stops the reel handle from moving backward, creating a solid hookset in the mouth of a fish when reeling in your prized catch. This reel features a right-hand retrieve, selectable spool clicker, and comes pre-spooled with 30-pound hi-vis Zebco line to help increase awareness of movement in the water to help anglers snag a catfish with ease. With a 5.4:1 gear ratio, a line retrieval of 28 IPT (inches per turn), a mono line capacity of 165/30 yds/lbs and the ability to hold 230-yards of 100-pound braided line, this reel is best-in-class. It also features a smooth, multi-layered drag stack with a max drag of 20-pounds, all-brass gear drive, and a strong and rigid graphite frame for durability.

Zebco Brands have been helping people enjoy and discover the outdoors through fishing since 1949. The Zebco Big Cat conventional reel and 8-foot 2-piece fishing rod combo is a trusted product that is warranted for a period of (1) year from the date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials.

Pros

  • Durable, heavy-duty fiberglass rod blank construction
  • QuickSet Anti-Reverse clutch for easy use
  • Pre-spooled with 30-pound hi-vis Zebco line
  • Smooth, multi-layered drag stack with a max drag of 20-pounds
  • All-brass gear drive
  • Strong and rigid graphite frame for durability
  • Trusted product with a warranty of (1) year from the date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for beginners
  • – 8-foot length may be too long for some anglers

9. Big Cat Spinning Combo With Instant-Reverse

The Zebco Big Cat Spinning Combo is a convenient and reliable open-cast fishing reel paired with a 2-piece, 7-foot E-Glass rod. The rod features aluminum oxide guides with stainless steel tip, built-in hook keeper, and extended EVA foam handle for a comfortable grip. The reel boasts all-metal gears, 5 bearings (4 + clutch), powerful Magnum drag system, graphite body and rotor, and a forged and machined aluminum spool.

This combo is versatile and can be used for various fishing activities. With a mono capacity of 235/14, it is great for use with a line weighing 25-50 pounds and lures between 2-8 ounces. This combo is perfect for catching medium to heavy species such as walleye, bass, catfish, striper, and other saltwater fish.

The Zebco Big Cat Spinning Combo is designed to provide a smooth and reliable fishing experience. The instant anti-reverse technology, right/left hand changeable retrieve, and patented no tangle design make this combo perfect for any fishing trip. The product also comes with a warranty period of (1) year from the date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials.

Pros

  • All-metal gears for long-lasting durability
  • Powerful Magnum drag system for smooth and easy fishing experience
  • Versatile and can be used for various fishing activities
  • Extended EVA foam handle for a comfortable grip
  • Patented no tangle design for hassle-free fishing
  • Comes with a warranty period of (1) year from the date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials

Cons

  • – Not suitable for light fishing activities
  • – May not be suitable for beginners due to its medium-heavy power
  • – Limited color options available

10. Penn Pursuit Iv Combo: Smooth Fishing Success.

Experience an impressive fishing performance with the PENN Pursuit III Spinning Fishing Reel. It features a cutting-edge HT-100 drag system that delivers an incredibly smooth drag even under the heaviest loads. With 4 sealed stainless steel ball bearings, this fishing reel delivers exceptional smoothness, eliminating any wobble or friction.

PENN Dura-Guides help reduce friction and increase casting distance, making it easier to cast your lure further and more accurately. The graphite composite blank ensures that the reel is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for extended fishing sessions. The EVA grips provide a comfortable, secure hold, allowing you to fish with confidence for hours on end.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the PENN Pursuit III Spinning Fishing Reel is an excellent choice for your fishing needs. With its advanced features, it's designed to help you catch more fish with ease.

Pros

  • HT-100 drag washers offer smooth drag under heavy loads
  • 4 sealed stainless steel ball bearings for exceptional smoothness
  • PENN Dura-Guides help reduce friction and increase casting distance
  • Graphite composite blank ensures the reel is lightweight and easy to handle
  • Comfortable EVA grips provide a secure and comfortable hold

Best Rod And Reel Combo For Catfish FAQs

Are there any specific features to consider when choosing a catfish rod and reel combo?

Yes, there are specific features to consider when choosing a catfish rod and reel combo. Firstly, you should consider the size and weight of the catfish you are targeting. If you are going after larger catfish, you will need a heavier rod and reel combo that can handle the weight and power of the fish. Secondly, you should consider the type of fishing you will be doing. If you are fishing in rivers or streams, a medium-heavy rod and reel combo will work well. However, if you are fishing in lakes or reservoirs, a heavier combo may be needed to cast further distances. Thirdly, the material of the rod and reel should be considered. Graphite and fiberglass are common materials used in catfish rods, while reels can be made of aluminum or graphite. Lastly, the drag system on the reel should be strong enough to handle the fight of a catfish without slipping or breaking. By considering these features, you can choose a catfish rod and reel combo that is best suited for your specific fishing needs.

How much should I expect to spend on a quality catfish rod and reel combo?

The cost of a catfish rod and reel combo can vary depending on the quality and brand you choose. Generally, you can expect to spend between $50 to $200 for a good catfish rod and reel combo. However, keep in mind that higher quality products will likely come with a higher price tag. It's important to invest in a quality combo that will last you a long time and will perform well when you're out on the water. Some factors to consider when choosing a catfish combo include the length and power of the rod, the type of reel, and the line capacity. It's also a good idea to read reviews from other anglers to see which combos have worked well for them. Ultimately, the amount you spend on a catfish rod and reel combo will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and fishing needs.

What is the best rod and reel combo for catfish?

When it comes to selecting the best rod and reel combo for catfish, there are a few things to consider. Catfish are known to put up a good fight, so you want a rod and reel that can handle the weight and strength of these fish.

Firstly, you need to decide on the type of catfish you will be targeting, as this will determine the appropriate rod and reel combo. If you are fishing for smaller species like channel catfish, a medium-heavy rod, and a spinning reel with a line capacity of around 10-20 pounds would suffice. However, if you are targeting larger species like blue or flathead catfish, a heavy rod and a baitcasting reel with a line capacity of around 25-50 pounds would be more suitable.

Some of the best rod and reel combos for catfish include the Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Combo, the Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Rod and Reel Combo, and the Ugly Stik Catfish Spinning Combo. These combos are specifically designed for catfishing, and their durability and strength make them perfect for reeling in these tough fighters.

Ultimately, the best rod and reel combo for catfish will depend on your personal preferences and the type of catfish you plan to target. It is important to choose a combo that is strong enough to handle the weight and strength of these fish, while also providing you with a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.

What length and action should the rod be for catfishing?

When it comes to catfishing, the length and action of the rod are important factors to consider. Generally, a medium-heavy to heavy power rod with a moderate-fast to fast action is recommended for catfishing. The length of the rod can vary, but a 7 to 8-foot rod is typically a good choice.

A longer rod can provide greater casting distance and better control over the fishing line. It can also help to keep the fishing line high off the water, which is important for catfishing as these fish are often found in murky waters. A shorter rod, on the other hand, can provide greater sensitivity and control over the bait.

The action of the rod refers to how much it bends when pressure is applied to the tip. A moderate-fast to fast action rod will provide greater sensitivity and faster hooksets, which is important when fishing for catfish as they can be quick to bite and difficult to hook.

Ultimately, the length and action of the rod will depend on personal preference and the specific catfishing situation. It's important to choose a rod that feels comfortable and provides the necessary control and sensitivity for successful catfishing.

What type of reel is best suited for catfish?

When it comes to catfishing, choosing the right reel is crucial for a successful catch. The best type of reel for catfish is a baitcasting reel. Baitcasting reels provide anglers with more control over their cast, allowing for more accurate and precise placement of bait. This is important when targeting catfish, as they tend to stay close to the bottom of the water and require accurate casts to reach them. Baitcasting reels also have a higher line capacity, which is useful when dealing with larger catfish that require heavier line. Additionally, baitcasting reels have a stronger drag system that can handle the weight and power of catfish. Overall, a baitcasting reel is the best choice for catfish anglers who want to increase their chances of success and have a more enjoyable fishing experience.

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