7 Best Baitcasting Rod and Reel Under $150 [Top Picks for 2024]

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As a beginner, you will probably not need to spend a fortune to buy your first baitcasting reel. However, some cheap ones are not worth the price. That’s why it is crucial to take your time and does some research before buying your first baitcasting reel. You don’t need to worry about that, though. I’ve done the research, and I present you with

Here are the list of 7 Best Baitcasting Combos Under 150 :

ImageProductFeaturesAction
Best Overall
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Best For Freshwater 

  • Ball Bearings : 7+1
  • Power : Light to Medium Heavy
  • Action : Moderate Fast, Fast
  • Handle : Golf Style Superpolymer Handle
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Best High-End
Lew's Mach 1 : Best Baitcast Combo

Lew's Mach 1 : Best Baitcast Combo

SLP Graphite Frame and Side Plates

  • Handle : Stainless Steel
  • Power : Medium Heavy
  • Length : 6' 10", 7' 2"
  • Bearings : 8
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Top Pick
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Perfect for Sea & Boat Fishing

  • Gear ratio: 5.2:1
  • Power : UL, M
  • Material : Carbon Fiber
  • Rod Type : Telescopic Rod
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Budget Friendly
Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6' Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo

Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6' Fishing Rod and Bait Cast Reel Combo

Low Profile Fishing Rod & Bait Cast Reel

  • Action : Medium
  • Material : Aluminium
  • Fishing Technique : Casting
  • Hand Orientation : Ambidextrous
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Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo

Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo

7-Year Rod Warranty

  • Rod Length :  6' 6"
  • Reel Size : LP
  • Rod Power : Medium Heavy
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Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo

Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo

Ultra Responsive Graphite Rod

  • Bearings : 4+1
  • Length : 6' 6"
  • Brake System : MagTrax 
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LEW'S American Hero Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo

LEW'S American Hero Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo

Premium IM7 Graphite One-Piece Blanks

  • Power : Medium Heavy
  • Bearings : 5+1
  • Gear ratio : 7.1:1
  • Rod Length : 6’10”
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1. KastKing Crixus: Best Rod and Reel Combo under 100

KastKing is a known company for fishing gears, and it never disappoints. They have provided us with some fine fishing rods, some of which are among the best-rated. Crixus, on the other hand, it has provided us with some fantastic fishing reels. A combination of these two will obviously be nothing short of excellent. Here are some of the features of the combo:

Features :

Graphite Blanks 

The graphite design makes sure the rod is lightweight and strong enough to battle even larger fish. The graphite is also sensitive, which means you can use the baitcast to catch even smaller fish. Its length ranges from 5.6 to 6.6 inches, making it long enough to chase down fish fond of running. 

5+1 Double Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearings 

Ball bearings ensure that the performance of a fishing reel is as smooth as possible. With five ball bearings, plus one roller bearing, you can be sure the Crixus baitcasting reel will be smooth enough.

Golf Style Superpolymer Handle 

The comfort of the handle is one thing you must always consider before buying a fishing rod. The KastKing fishing rod comes with a Golf Style Superpolymer handle that makes it both comfortable and slip-resistant. With it, you get the maximum grip and control over your fishing rod.  

Specifications 

  • Weight: 1.1 kg
  • Brand Name: KastKing 
  • Style: 2000 reel size, Spin 5’6” Light- 2pcs 

For more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • You can use the combo for lake fishing 
  • Comes with a durable fishing rod 
  • It is easy to use 
  • Worth the price and looks of high quality 
  • A great combo for beginners 

Cons 

  • Only available for freshwater fishing

Verdict 

The KastKing, Crixus combo is excellent and one of the best choices under $150. The reel is easy to use and packable. You can use it for both river and lake fishing. The combo has a good rating, which speaks volumes about its quality. It is a combo I highly recommend to all beginners. 

2. Lew’s Fishing Mach 1: Best Baitcasting Rod and Reel 

If you are looking for a perfectly balanced fishing combo, the Lew’s Mach 1 is an excellent choice. The rod is made of graphite, making it both durable and lightweight. The fishing reel also has some graphite material making it lightweight and durable as well. Here are some great features of the combo.

Features :

8 Bearing System 

The bearings in a fishing reel ensure smooth performance. A fishing reel with eight bearings will be exceptionally smooth. In addition to the bearings, the fishing reel comes with a zero reverse. This means that the risk of line tangles is pretty low. 

Speed Gears 

The fishing reel’s speed gears are cut on the most-excellent Hamai CNC machines, providing you with a precise gear interface. The speed gear also enhances power and less wear. This means your reel will probably last for a very long time.

Multi-setting Brake (MSB)

The fishing reel comes with an externally-adjustable magnetic braking system. The braking system gives you constant braking while casting. It also comes with centrifugal brakes, which provide the initial braking while beginning the cast. The initial braking helps prevent backlashes and line tangles that come with it. 

IM8 Graphite Blank 

The fishing rod is made of graphite, making it both durable and lightweight. The handles are comfortable and provide a sturdy grip. 

Specifications 

  • Weight: 0.39 kg
  • Brand Name: Lew’s 
  • Power: Medium, Heavy 
  • Rod Length: 7.2 inches 
  • Suggested Users: Unisex-adult 
  • Fishing Technique: Baitcasting 

For more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • An excellent fishing combo, with a high-quality fishing reel and rod 
  • Easy to use and an excellent baitcaster
  • Allows you to cast over long distances 
  • Worth the price

Cons 

  • You have to use a mono leader for effective casting if you are going to use a braided line.
  • The fishing rod tip is a bit fragile, so you have to be extra careful.

Verdict 

If you want to buy lightweight and durable fishing gear, you should definitely consider this combo. It is excellent for beginners, and experienced anglers can use it. Currently, it has more selling on Amazon, which suggests it has received a lot of love from its users.

3. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo 

PLUSINNO is a well-known company when it comes to making fishing rods. In this combo, they have combined one of their finest fishing rods with an exceptional baitcaster reel. The combo is relatively affordable, and here are some of its main features:

Features and Benefits :

Sensitive and Strong 

The combo comes with the All Elite Hunter Select fishing rod that is both strong and sensitive. The rod is constructed with IM6 Carbon matrix technology, which gives it both power and sensitivity. It uses the non-slip EVA handle, which ensures control of the fishing rod even at the wettest conditions. 

Super Smooth Power 

The fishing rod guides are made of stainless steel and the inserts of ceramic. This combination makes the guides both smooth and durable. They also minimize friction hence increasing the sensitivity of the fishing rod. 

Double Locking Reel Seat 

The fishing reel comes with a plastic reel seat that applies the double locking structure. This makes it quite easy to assemble and disassemble the reel. The cushioned hood that comes with it makes it easy to travel around with the combo. 

Specifications 

  • Weight: 0.51 kg
  • Brand Name: PLUSINNO
  • Size: 1.8m 5.91FT

Fore more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • You can use the combo for both freshwater and saltwater fishing 
  • Lightweight, but still strong enough 
  • Worth the price 
  • A comfortable fishing reel
  • Easy to pack and store while traveling 

Cons 

  • The fishing reel may be a bit challenging for new users.

Verdict 

This is a great choice on Amazon, and I would recommend this combo to any ambitious angler looking for a lightweight baitcaster. 

4. Shakespeare Alpha Medium 6’: budget friendly 

Shakespeare is a renowned company for fishing rods, and this time they combine one of their excellent rods with a great fishing reel. The combo has received a lot of love, and here are some of its features:

Features :

Low Profile Fishing Rod 

The Shakespeare Alpha Medium Low Profile fishing rod makes it easy to cast even over long distances. It is designed for optimal performances, and you can use it in freshwater and in the open sea. The rod is durable, sensitive, and comfortable. Its graphite frame provides exceptional rigidity, even under pressure.

EVA Grips 

The fishing rod comes with sturdy and comfortable grips. You can still control your fishing rod even when fishing under wet circumstances, for example, when it is raining. 

Adjustable Magnetic Cast Control 

The magnetic control cast system reduces the risk of birdnesting as much as possible. It also has a multi-stop anti-reverse that helps get rid of back plays to allow smooth reeling. 

Specifications 

  • Weight: 0.39 kg
  • Brand Name: Shakespeare 
  • Suggested Users: Men

For more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • Comes with an excellent fishing rod 
  • Worth the price 
  • A great combo for new anglers 
  • Lightweight and comfortable 

Cons 

  • Does not come with tips to help you set it up
  • The fishing reel and rod cannot hold larger fish, weighing from 7 kg. 

Verdict 

For the price it comes with, this Shakespeare combo is excellent. It is easy to use, even for newbies, comfortable, and durable.  It is a baitcaster combo I can recommend to all anglers, both beginners and experienced ones. 

5. Ugly Stik Elite Baitcast Combo:Best for Freshwater 

Ugly Stik is, without a doubt, one of the leading manufacturers of fishing rods. They keep on introducing new designs, and this time they are back with New Ugly Stik GX2. The fishing rod is lightweight and comes with premium cork handles for comfort and sturdy grips. They have combined this fishing rod with a high-quality reel to provide users with one of the finest baitcaster combos. 

Features :

Ugly Stik fishing gears comes with excellent features, and some of them include :

35% Graphite Content on the Fishing Rod 

Most of graphite fishing rods usually have less than 30 percent of graphite content. This means that a fishing rod with 35% of graphite content is even stronger and lightweight. It is also more sensitive, as well as durable.

Adjustable Magnetic Control 

Magnetic control makes it easy for users to cast and retrieve without causing bird nests, leading to line tangles. 

2+1 Ball Bearings 

The number of bearings usually determines the performance smoothness of a fishing reel. However, the number of bearings is not the only thing you should consider. You should also keep the quality of the bearings in mind while purchasing a fishing reel. 

That said, the Ugly Stik elite baitcast combo comes with two quality ball bearings and one roller bearing. The ball bearings ensure smooth casting retrieval, but it may be slightly lower compared to its competitors. However, considering the price it comes in, the speed of retrieval and smoothness of the cast is fair. 

Specifications 

  • Weight: 0.45 kg
  • Brand Name: Ugly Stik 
  • Size: 6’6” Medium, Heavy- 1pc 
  • Material: Graphite, Stainless steel, Aluminum 

Fore more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • The combo can be used both in saltwater and freshwater.
  • Comes with a fantastic fishing rod 
  • Worth the price 

Cons 

  • The reel is set up the traditional right-handed way, meaning left-handed individuals may find it difficult to use. 
  • Not that great for beginners 
  • The baitcaster reel is not as great as the fishing rod

Verdict 

The Ugly Stik fishing rod is excellent, but the same cannot be said about the fishing reel. Not to say the reel is average, but compared to the rod, they would’ve done better. 

6. Abu Garcia Black Max : Best Casting Rod and Reel Combo 

If you are looking for a fishing rod with extra sensitivity and a fishing reel of high-quality, you should give this combo a try. The fishing reel provides a smooth experience, while the rod is strong enough to handle even larger fish. 

Features :

This combo comes with the following features:

24-Ton Graphite Rod 

Graphite is one of the finest materials for fishing rods. It is strong, durable, and lightweight. The material is also quite responsive, meaning you can use it to catch trout and other small fish. Once the fish takes the bait, you will notice with ease. 

Power Disk System 

The power disk system ensures that the drag performs smoothly. Adding the four stainless steel ball bearings it comes with, the reel’s performance is even smoother. You will be able to retrieve baits and catch them with ease.

Lightweight 

This combo is one of the lightest fishing combos you will find in the market. The item weight is just 0.9 pounds, while the package weight is about 0.43 kg. With a 0.9 weight, you can be sure to hold it all day without getting tired. 

Specifications 

  • Weight: 0.43 kg
  • Brand Name: Abu Garcia 
  • Style: 7’- Medium, Heavy 1pc
  • Suggested Users: Unisex-adults 
  • Material: Aluminum 

Fore more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • Comes with one of the finest fishing reels for the price 
  • Worth the price 
  • An excellent combo for user-friendliness 

Cons 

  • You can only use the combo in freshwater for now 

Verdict 

Abu Garcia is known for great combos, and this one does not disappoint. It comes with an excellent baitcasting reel and a solid fishing rod. Moreover, it is lightweight, and it will also give you the value of your money.

7. Lew’s American Hero Baitcasting Rod and Reel Combo

Lew’s features in this list yet again. This time it enters with a reel weighing 7.2 ounces combined with a graphite fishing rod. The combo has received a lot of love, and it is for good reasons.

Features :

Speed Gears 

As the other Lew’s fishing reel, the American Hero Baitcasting reel comes with high strength brass speed gears. 

Magnetic Control System 

With the magnetic control system, baitcasting backlashes are rare, which makes a beginner cast with confidence. Adding the zero-reverse, casting with this fishing reel is easier than with most baitcaster reels. 

5-Bearing System 

The fishing reel comes with five bearings, meaning its casting is smooth. It may not be as fast as some of its competitors, but it is pretty good since the gear ratio is excellent. The bearings are made of stainless steel. 

Specifications 

  • Rod Length 6’10”
  • Bearings: 4+1
  • Gear ratio: 7:1:1
  • Weight: 1 kg
  • Brand Name: Lew’s
  • Size: 7’ Medium, Heavy 
  • Suggested Users: Unisex- adults 

Fore more models and sizes : Check Here

Pros 

  • Worth the price 
  • Lightweight but still strong enough to land larger fish 
  • A good buy for beginners 

Cons 

  • The rod is not swappable

Verdict 

If you are looking for a cheap and worth the price baitcaster combo, you should check this one out. The fishing reel is good enough, and the rod is exceptional. The whole package is lightweight, meaning you will not get too tired while fishing. With a better rating, you can be sure that it is above average.

Wrapping Up 

There are many great baitcaster combos under $150, but overall, the KastKing, Crixus combo is the best. The fishing reel is easy to use, affordable, lightweight, and has received a lot of love from its users. The other suggestions are great as well, so be sure to conduct some go through all of them before settling on any.

Alternatively, If you want to buy only rod , you may take a look of our content on Quality Casting Rod Under 100

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