Top Rod and Reel Brands for Ultimate Fishing Experience

When it comes to fishing gear, especially rods and reels, choosing the right brand can make all the difference in enhancing your angling experience. Quality brands offer durability, precision, and reliability which are key factors in ensuring that every cast and catch is successful. From established industry leaders to innovative newcomers, the market is filled with an array of options catering to both amateur anglers and seasoned pros. Curious to discover which brands top the list for delivering exceptional rod and reel combos? Read on below to find out more about the best options available.

Illustration of rod and reel

Best brands of rod and reel in 2025

Shimano

Shimano is a leading brand in the fishing industry, renowned for producing high-quality rods and reels that cater to various fishing needs. In 2023, the spinning reel segment, which Shimano dominates, accounted for 35.0% of the market share, highlighting the brand's popularity among anglers. Shimano's innovative designs and technological advancements have contributed significantly to the growth of the fishing reel market, which is projected to reach USD 7.9 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 4.5%. The brand's strong presence in North America, where it holds a substantial market share, is driven by the region's strong recreational fishing culture. Shimano's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a top choice among both casual and experienced anglers.

Penn

Penn Fishing Tackle is renowned as one of the top producers of high-quality fishing rods and reels, with a significant presence in the global market. The company is part of the North America fishing reels market, which generated USD 2,591.7 million in revenue in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4% from 2020 to 2027. Penn's products are favored by anglers due to their durability and performance, contributing to the brand's strong market share. In the broader context, North America dominates the global fishing reels market, accounting for more than 53.7% of the market share, driven by factors such as the popularity of winter fishing and extensive accessible fishing areas. Penn's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a staple among fishing enthusiasts. For more details about their products, visit Penn Fishing Tackle's official website.

Abu Garcia

Abu Garcia is a leading brand in the fishing reels market, known for its high-quality rod and reel products. The brand is part of the global fishing reels market, which was valued at $5.0 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $7.6 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2022 to 2031. Abu Garcia, along with other key players, contributes significantly to the market, particularly in North America, which holds more than 53.7% of the market share. The brand's products cater to various fishing types, including freshwater fishing, which is estimated to witness the fastest growth with a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period. Abu Garcia's commitment to innovation and performance has made it a preferred choice among anglers.

Daiwa

Daiwa is a renowned brand in the fishing industry, celebrated for its high-quality rods and reels that cater to both recreational and professional anglers. As one of the key players in the global fishing reels market, Daiwa contributes significantly to the market's growth, expected to reach USD 7.99 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 4.50% from 2024 to 2032. Daiwa's innovative products, such as advanced gear systems and improved drag systems, enhance the fishing experience with smoother operation, increased durability, and improved casting and retrieval capabilities. The brand's commitment to technological advancements has made it a favorite among anglers, driving the demand for new and improved fishing reels. With a strong presence in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, Daiwa continues to be a leader in the fishing equipment market. For more detailed insights into their latest offerings, visit their official website.

Okuma

Okuma is a leading brand in the fishing industry, renowned for its high-quality rods and reels that combine state-of-the-art engineering, superior craftsmanship, and unmatched performance. The company has introduced innovative products such as the X-Series Bass Rods, which are designed to meet the needs of even the most devoted fishermen. Okuma's advanced gear systems, improved drag systems, and enhanced materials have significantly contributed to the growth of the global fishing reels market, expected to reach USD 9.17 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 5.7%. In the North American market, Okuma is a key player, with the region dominating over 53.7% of the market share due to the growing popularity of fishing sports. Okuma's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a preferred choice among anglers worldwide. For more information, visit their official website.

Lew's

Lew's Fishing is a legendary brand in the fishing industry, renowned for its innovative and high-quality rods, reels, combos, tools, and accessories. Founded by Lew Childre, the company has a rich history of product innovation, continuously updating its products with the latest features and materials. With an estimated annual revenue of $14.5 million and 71 employees, Lew's Fishing has experienced a 22% growth in employee count recently. The brand is committed to delivering products that enhance the fishing experience, making it a favorite among fishing enthusiasts. Lew's Fishing is part of the broader fishing reels market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2024 to 2031. For more information, visit Lew's Fishing website.

St. Croix

St. Croix is renowned for producing high-quality fishing rods and reels, trusted by both professional and recreational anglers for their exceptional design, durability, and performance. Made from advanced materials like SCII graphite, St. Croix rods offer optimal sensitivity, strength, and balance, enhancing the fishing experience. The brand is a key player in the U.S. fishing goods market, which accounted for 93.6% of the market share in 2023, with the overall market expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.2% from 2024 to 2030.

Ugly Stik

Ugly Stik, a brand under Pure Fishing Inc., is renowned for producing high-quality fishing rods and reels, particularly the GX2 spinning combos, which are appreciated for their ease of use and durability. In 2024, spinning rods like those from Ugly Stik dominated the market with a revenue share of 36.0%, thanks to their user-friendly design and versatility in casting lighter lures over long distances. The Ugly Tech Construction used in these rods enhances performance and minimizes backlash, making them ideal for various fishing techniques. Ugly Stik's products are popular among both recreational and experienced anglers, contributing to the brand's strong presence in the global fishing equipment market. The brand's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a favorite among fishermen.

Pflueger

Pflueger, a renowned brand in the fishing industry, is celebrated for its high-quality rod and reel products, particularly the Pflueger President Spinning Reel, which is trusted by anglers of all skill levels for its reliability, durability, and smooth operation. This reel features a lightweight graphite body, a stainless steel main shaft, and a 10-bearing system, ensuring consistent performance and minimal friction. Pflueger is one of the key market players globally, alongside brands like Shimano Inc and Okuma Corp, contributing to the significant growth in the fishing reels market, which is expected to reach USD 9.17 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 5.7%. The North America fishing reels market, where Pflueger is a major player, generated a revenue of USD 2,591.7 million in 2019 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4% from 2020 to 2027. Pflueger's products are versatile and suitable for various fishing techniques and environments, making them a favorite among anglers.

TFO

Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO) is renowned as one of the top producers of high-quality rods and reels, particularly favored by anglers for their durability and performance. TFO's products, such as the BC Big Fly rod, feature advanced components like RECOIL stripping guides that can withstand significant stress without compromising durability. The company's focus on ergonomic design and innovative materials, like modified cork composite grips, enhances the fishing experience. TFO's products are popular among both novice and experienced anglers, contributing to the growth of the fishing equipment market, which is expected to reach USD 7.49 billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 4.1%.