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| Choice | Pick |
|---|---|
| Type | Spinning: the open reel hangs under the handle. Skip spincast (push-button, closed face) and baitcasters (reel on top) for now. |
| Rod | 6'6"–7', medium-light or medium power |
| Reel size | 2500 or 30/35: about fist-sized. Size 20 or 1000 is ultralight, fine for panfish but small for bass. |
| Line | 6–8 lb monofilament |
| Budget | Pre-spooled combo plus basics: about $75–100. A better reel with a separate rod, line and tackle: about $150–160. |
Combo or separate?
Combos come with a reel mounted, and often pre-spooled. Some rods hang on the wall without a reel. Read the tag, or you'll get to the counter with half a setup.
Don't forget
- Hooks (#8–10)
- Split shot
- Bobbers
- Jig heads and small soft plastics
- Bait
- Pliers
Spinning vs spincast vs baitcaster
- Spinning: the open-face reel hangs below the rod. It casts light lures well and is the best all-around choice.
- Spincast: a push-button reel with a closed face, sitting on top. Easiest for kids, but it handles line and fights fish worse.
- Baitcaster: the reel sits on top with a revolving spool. Great for heavy bass fishing, but it backlashes easily and casts light baits poorly. Not for a first setup.
When you'll want more
One medium-light spinning setup covers ponds, lakes, panfish and bass. If you get serious about heavy-cover bass, you'll add a medium-heavy rod. If you go after tiny trout and panfish on very light line, add an ultralight. The first upgrade on most setups is a better reel.
Questions anglers ask
- What is the best beginner spinning reel size?
- 2500 (or 30/35 in some brands' sizing). It handles 6–8 lb line for bass and panfish.
Read next
How to Set Up a Spinning Rod and Reel
Set up a new spinning combo in 10 minutes: mount the reel, spool line without twist, thread the guides, set the drag and tie on.
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The Bobber and Bait Rig
The simplest, most effective panfish rig: hook, split shot, bobber and bait, plus depth, bait choice and cold-water tweaks.
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Catching Bass in Cold Water
Cold-water bass fishing made simple: where bass hold, slow bottom presentations, how to detect the bite and set the hook.
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