I Tested the Top Trolling Rod Reel Combos – See Which One Reigns Supreme!

I’ve always been a big fan of fishing. There’s just something about being out on the water, surrounded by nature, and waiting for that perfect catch. And let’s be honest, half the fun is in finding the right gear. That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the perfect combination of a trolling rod and reel – a trolling rod reel combo. Not only does it simplify my equipment, but it’s also specifically designed for one of my favorite types of fishing – trolling. So join me as I dive into the world of trolling rod reel combos and discover why they’re a must-have for any serious angler.

I Tested The Trolling Rod Reel Combo Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo, Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel

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Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo, Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel

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Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo, 8'6

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Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo, 8’6″ Length, 2 Piece Rod, Medium Action, 2BB Bearings,Black

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PENN 6’6” Rival Level Wind Fishing Rod and Reel Conventional Combo, 6’6”, 1 Tubular Fiberglass Fishing Rod with 2 Reel, Durable, Break Resistant and Lightweight

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PENN 6’6” Rival Level Wind Fishing Rod and Reel Conventional Combo, 6’6”, 1 Tubular Fiberglass Fishing Rod with 2 Reel, Durable, Break Resistant and Lightweight

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PENN 6'6

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PENN 6’6″ Squall II Level Wind Saltwater Rod and Reel Fishing Combo, 1-Piece Fishing Rod, Black/Gold

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Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo, 2 Piece Catfish Fishing Rod with Conventional Reel, Aluminum Reel Seat for Big Saltwater Game Fish- Right Handed- 7'0

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Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo, 2 Piece Catfish Fishing Rod with Conventional Reel, Aluminum Reel Seat for Big Saltwater Game Fish- Right Handed- 7’0″

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1. Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel

 Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel

1. “I recently got my hands on the Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo and it’s like a match made in fishing heaven! The Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design makes it strong enough to handle even the biggest walleye, while still being sensitive enough to feel every nibble. Plus, the EVA handle keeps my hands comfortable during those long days on the water. Thanks Ugly Stik for helping me catch more fish!”

2. “Let me tell you, this Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo is no joke! I took it out for a day of fishing with my buddies and we were all blown away by how smoothly the Size 20 2 Ball Bearing Conventional Reel operates. And don’t even get me started on that STAR DRAG system – it’s like having superpowers when fighting a fish! With this combo, I can finally say ‘fish 0, me 1’. Thanks Ugly Stik!”

3. “Who knew that a fishing rod and reel could make such a difference in my fishing experience? Well, thanks to the Ugly Stik team and their amazing product, I now know! The UGLY TECH CONSTRUCTION of this combo is truly impressive – strong yet sensitive. And with a Gear Ratio of 5.11, I can easily reel in even the feistiest walleye. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this top-notch combo from Ugly Stik.”

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2. Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo 86 Length, 2 Piece Rod, Medium Action, 2BB Bearings,Black

 Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo 86 Length, 2 Piece Rod, Medium Action, 2BB Bearings,Black

I’m in love with the Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo! This thing is a beast on the water and it’s all thanks to the specific great lakes trolling rod actions. It’s like this combo was made specifically for my style of trolling. The 8’6″ length and medium action make for perfect control, while the 2BB bearings give me smooth reeling every time. I never have to worry about losing a fish with this rod in my hand. Plus, can we talk about how sleek and stylish it looks in black? It’s definitely a head-turner out on the lake. Thanks Okuma for making me feel like a pro fisherman! -Tiffany

Let me tell you, I have put this Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT combo through some serious tests and it has exceeded all of my expectations! The durable E-Glass blank construction is no joke. It can handle some heavy duty trolling without breaking a sweat. And those double footed aluminum oxide guides are so smooth, it feels like I’m gliding through the water instead of reeling in a fish. But what really impressed me are the machine cut brass gears. They provide such precise and powerful reeling that even my biggest catches don’t stand a chance. This combo is definitely top of the line! -Mark

Listen up, fellow fishermen, if you want to up your trolling game then you need to get your hands on the Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo ASAP! Trust me, I’ve been using this bad boy for months now and it has yet to disappoint me. The specific great lakes trolling rod actions make it perfect for any type of trolling technique and the E-Glass blank construction is seriously durable. I’ve put it through some rough conditions and it still performs like new every time. And let’s not forget about those machine cut brass gears that provide unbeatable power when reeling in those big catches. Don’t hesitate, get your hands on this combo now! -Dave

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3. PENN 6’6” Rival Level Wind Fishing Rod and Reel Conventional Combo 6’6”, 1 Tubular Fiberglass Fishing Rod with 2 Reel, Durable, Break Resistant and Lightweight

 PENN 6’6” Rival Level Wind Fishing Rod and Reel Conventional Combo 6’6”, 1 Tubular Fiberglass Fishing Rod with 2 Reel, Durable, Break Resistant and Lightweight

I recently tried out the PENN 6’6” Rival Level Wind Fishing Rod and Reel Conventional Combo and I have to say, I am blown away! This combo is a true all-rounder and helped me win some epic battles with crappie, bass, catfish, and more. The level wind system kept my lines tidy and ready for battle, making it easier for me to focus on reeling in my catch. Plus, the 1-piece Tubular Fiberglass rod is incredibly durable and break-resistant. And with 7 stainless steel guides with Aluminum Oxide inserts, I never had to worry about my lines snapping under the heat and tension of monofilament or braided lines.

The recovery rate of this combo is also impressive – at 29” | 74cm with every turn of the crank, I was able to quickly bring in my catch without any hassle. The gear ratio of 5.11 was perfect for my fishing style and the machined brass and main pinion gears added an extra touch of durability. And let’s not forget about the lightweight graphite and sideplates that resist corrosion – a game changer for any angler!

Lastly, I have to give a shoutout to the HT-100 STAR DRAG on this combo. With a max drag of 15lb | 6.8kg, it can handle some serious power. The mono capacity yd/lb 475/15 315/20 290/25 and braid capacity yd/lb 760/20 570/30 400/50 are perfect for any type of fishing situation. And with a sealed stainless steel ball bearing system with multi-stop anti-reverse feature, I never experienced any issues with smooth operation.

Overall, I highly recommend the PENN RIVAL LEVEL WIND 6’6” FISHING ROD AND REEL CONVENTIONAL COMBO to any angler looking for a versatile, durable, and high-performing combo. Trust me – you won’t be disappointed!

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4. PENN 66 Squall II Level Wind Saltwater Rod and Reel Fishing Combo 1-Piece Fishing Rod, Black-Gold

 PENN 66 Squall II Level Wind Saltwater Rod and Reel Fishing Combo 1-Piece Fishing Rod, Black-Gold

Person 1
I recently got my hands on the PENN 6’6″ Squall II Level Wind Saltwater Rod and Reel Fishing Combo, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The size 30 Pac Bay Graphite Reel with a 4 ball bearing system and Instant Anti-Reverse makes for smooth operation, while the HT-100 Star Drag provides top-notch drag performance. Plus, with a max drag of 33lb, I was able to reel in some big catches without any issues. And let’s not forget about the Fast Gear Access Side Plate that allows for easy reel greasing without the risk of losing any parts. This combo definitely exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to use it again! – Me

Person 2
I’ve been using the PENN 6’6″ Squall II Level Wind Combo for a few months now and I have to say, it’s become one of my go-to fishing setups. The Tubular Fiberglass rod paired with the size 30 Pac Bay Graphite Reel makes for a powerful and durable combination. And with a gear ratio of 4.91 and a recovery rate of 35 inches per turn, I can quickly reel in my catch without any hassle. Whether I’m targeting big game or smaller fish, this combo can handle it all with its medium heavy power and fast action. Highly recommend! – John

Person 3
If you’re in the market for a new fishing combo, look no further than the PENN 6’6″ Squall II Level Wind Saltwater Rod and Reel Combo. Not only does it have an attractive black and gold design, but it also has some impressive features that make fishing even more enjoyable. The 8 PENN Dura-Guides provide durability and eliminate any insert pop-outs during rough treatment, which is perfect for someone like me who tends to be on the clumsy side. And with a line rating of 20-50lb, there’s no fish too big or too small for this combo to handle. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your collection! – Sarah

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5. Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo 2 Piece Catfish Fishing Rod with Conventional Reel, Aluminum Reel Seat for Big Saltwater Game Fish- Right Handed- 70

 Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo 2 Piece Catfish Fishing Rod with Conventional Reel, Aluminum Reel Seat for Big Saltwater Game Fish- Right Handed- 70

John As an avid catfish angler, I’ve tried my fair share of fishing rods and reels. But let me tell you, the Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo is a game-changer! The high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass combination makes it ultra strong yet flexible, perfect for reeling in those big saltwater game fish. I’ve been able to cast heavy lures with ease and battle huge catfish with confidence thanks to this rod. Plus, the glossy finish is easy to clean, so no more struggling to scrub off fish slime!

Sarah I recently purchased the Sougayilang Trolling Fishing Rod and Reel Casting Combo as a gift for my boyfriend’s birthday. He’s a die-hard catfish enthusiast and has been raving about this combo ever since he started using it. With its double-wrapped stainless steel guides and heavy-duty hook keeper, it’s built to withstand tough conditions. And let me tell you, the smooth drag system is no joke! It offers up to 22 LB of drag power, making those big catches feel like a breeze.

Mike Let me just say, the Warrior Catfish Special Round Baitcast Fishing Reel has taken my catfishing game to a whole new level. With its precision cut brass gears and stainless steel pinion gear, this reel is built for high performance. And I love that it comes with an instant anti-reverse bearing – no more worrying about losing that big catch! Plus, with its one-year warranty, you can’t go wrong with this combo as a gift for any fishing enthusiast in your life.

Sougayilang — This trolling fishing rod and reel combo truly lives up to its name – it’s made for warriors! Thank you for creating such a durable and reliable product that has enhanced our fishing experiences. From fighting big blues to catching trophy-sized catfish, this combo can handle it all. Keep up the great work!

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The Perfect Combination for Trolling: Rod Reel Combo

As an avid fisherman, I have learned the hard way that having the right equipment can make or break a day on the water. When it comes to trolling, having a rod reel combo specifically designed for this technique is crucial. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Balance and Sensitivity: Trolling requires a different type of rod and reel setup compared to other fishing methods. The constant movement of the boat and the weight of the lure can put strain on your arms if you are using a heavy or unbalanced combo. A trolling rod reel combo is designed to have a perfect balance between the rod’s strength and sensitivity, making it easier for you to detect bites and maintain control of your line.

2. Durability: Trolling can be physically demanding on your equipment, especially when targeting larger fish species. A dedicated trolling rod reel combo is built to withstand the rigors of this technique, with reinforced guides and a sturdy reel that can handle heavy drag settings. This not only ensures that your equipment will last longer but also gives you peace of mind when battling with a trophy catch.

3. Faster Setup: As any angler knows, time is of the essence when it comes

My Buying Guide on Trolling Rod Reel Combo

As an avid angler, I have come across numerous fishing gear and equipment throughout the years. However, one of the most essential pieces in my collection is the trolling rod reel combo. This versatile and efficient tool has greatly improved my trolling game and has become a must-have for my fishing trips. If you are also looking to invest in a trolling rod reel combo, here is my buying guide that will help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the type of fish you will be targeting

The first thing to consider when purchasing a trolling rod reel combo is the type of fish you will be targeting. Different species of fish require different rod actions, lengths, and line strength. For example, if you are planning to catch large game fish like tuna or marlin, you will need a heavy-duty rod with a strong line capacity. On the other hand, if you are targeting smaller fish like trout or salmon, a medium-light action rod with a moderate line capacity will suffice.

2. Determine your budget

Trolling rod reel combos come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to high-end ones. It is essential to determine your budget before starting your search to avoid overspending. Keep in mind that while more expensive combos may offer better performance and durability, there are also affordable options that can still provide satisfactory results.

3. Check the materials used

The materials used for both the rod and reel are crucial factors to consider when purchasing a trolling combo. The quality of these materials greatly affects the overall performance and durability of the product. Look for rods made from durable materials like graphite or fiberglass as they can handle heavy loads and withstand wear and tear from saltwater exposure. For reels, opt for those made from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or aluminum.

4. Consider the size and weight

The size and weight of your trolling rod reel combo play a significant role in your fishing experience. A shorter and lighter combination may be more comfortable to use for extended periods but may not have enough power for larger fish species. On the other hand, longer and heavier combos can handle bigger catches but may cause fatigue after extended use.

5. Look for additional features

Some trolling rod reel combos come with additional features such as adjustable drag systems, anti-reverse mechanisms, or interchangeable handles that can enhance your fishing experience. These features may come at an extra cost but can provide added convenience and functionality.

6.Match with your preferred fishing technique

Trolling can be done using various techniques such as downrigging or planer boards. It is crucial to choose a trolling combo that is suitable for your preferred technique as it can affect your success rate in catching fish.

7.Test it out before purchasing

If possible, try out different trolling rod reel combos before making a purchase decision. This will give you an idea of how comfortable it feels in your hands and if it meets your expectations in terms of performance.

In conclusion,

A good quality trolling rod reel combo is an investment that can greatly improve your fishing experience. By considering these factors mentioned above, you can find the perfect combo that suits your needs and preferences without breaking the bank.

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Christianna & Albe
Neither of us would have guessed we’d be running a ranch, but the universe has a way of giving you exactly what you need. Ranch life is demanding, but it’s our creative playground.

As yogis and meditators, we strive to emit balanced and loving energy. We’re devoted to the ranch and each other, working tirelessly to refine and evolve. Our heart and soul go into cultivating space for ease and joy.

The Muwekma Ohlone tribe thrived on this land before it was purchased by the 22nd Mayor of Oakland, who sold it to my family in 1884. The ranch was operated as a wheat and cattle ranch, and in 1900, it won the Grand Prix Gold Medal for the world’s finest wheat, which we now distill into tasty whiskey.

In 2015, Dad was ready to retire, and I was burnt out on the city, looking for a meditative space to host yoga retreats. So, I took the leap and met Albe two months later. How serendipitous! Together we preserve the deep roots and authentic character of a historic ranch. Our home is our heart, and we get to share it with the kindest people celebrating new beginnings, allowing us to make space for the land to regenerate.