The Penn Rival II Level Wind Conventional Reel

The Penn Rival II featured an Image showing a lady angler holding two nice red snapper while standing in a boat offshore.

If you’re searching for a sturdy, user-friendly conventional reel for inshore and nearshore fishing that won’t break the bank, the Penn Rival II Level Wind is a reel I’ve found that checks many boxes. After getting hands-on experience and comparing it to other options, I see why this reel appeals to entry-level and practical-minded anglers. … Read more

Abu Garcia Beast Spinning Reel

Abu Garcia Beast Spinning Reel featured an image of a lady angler holding up a large jack.

The Abu Garcia Beast spinning reel is purpose-built for anglers who need extra muscle for battling large fish. Whether I’m fishing in heavy cover, tossing oversized swimbaits, or targeting big predators in tough saltwater conditions, this reel is made to handle serious pressure. Several advanced engineering features help it stand out as a solid pick … Read more

The Penn Warfare II Star Drag Conventional Reel

The Penn Warfare II featured image shows a lady angler in the process of releasing a sailfish.

The Penn Warfare II Star Drag Conventional Reel is an option I reach for when I need a reliable yet affordable reel that does not weigh me down on a full day out on the water. Penn designed this reel with anglers in mind who want longevity and versatility. QUICK LOOK: Why You Should Consider … Read more

The New Penn Pursuit V Saltwater Spinning Reel

Penn Pursuit V Saltwater Spinning Reel featured image showing a lady angler standing in a boat and hooked up, and battling a fish.

The PENN Pursuit V Saltwater Spinning Reel brings updated features and solid performance to saltwater anglers looking for reliable gear without a steep price tag. I’ve spent quite a few days on the pier and out in the surf with previous PENN Pursuit models, so I know how important it is to have a reel … Read more

KastKing Kong Rods Review

KastKing Kong Rods Review featured image showing a lady angler holding a nice slot redfish and her KastKing Kong rod and reel combo.

The KastKing Kong rod series is built for anglers who need serious lifting power and toughness, all without having to empty their pockets. As someone passionate about chasing hefty freshwater predators and the occasional saltwater bruiser, I know the importance of having a rod that’s both strong and comfortable. In this review, you’ll get the … Read more

New Daiwa Tatula TW 150 Baitcasting Reel

The Daiwa Tatula TW 150 featured an image of a lady angler kissing a largemouth bass on the bank.

The Daiwa Tatula TW 150 Baitcasting Reel is designed for anglers who want a reel that stands up to the demands of heavy-duty bass fishing. This reel is well-suited for those power techniques that require more strength and a greater line capacity. QUICK LOOK: Pros and Potential Drawbacks of the Daiwa Tatula TW Pros of … Read more

Okuma Convector Series Trolling Reels

Okuma Convector Series Trolling Reels featured image showing two lady anglers holding up a yellowfin tuna next to an image of the Okuma Convector Trolling reel.

The Okuma Convector Series has become a popular pick for anglers who want strong, hassle-free trolling reels for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. I’ve found these reels cover a huge range of needs, whether I’m chasing salmon in big water or working slow passes for walleye on lakes. QUICK LOOK: Essential Features of the Okuma … Read more

Abu Garcia Max EZ Cast Baitcast Combo

Abu Garcia Max EZ Cast Combo featured image showing a lady angler standing in a boat while holding a nice mutton snapper.

If you’ve ever thought about getting started with baitcasting reels but felt a little worried about tangled lines or confusing adjustments, the Abu Garcia Max EZ Cast Baitcast Combo is designed to help people in exactly that spot. QUICK LOOK: Features of the Abu Garcia Max EZ Cast Combo This combo packs a user-friendly baitcast … Read more

Berkley Powerbait Unrigged Cullshad Swimbait

Berkley Powerbait Unrigged Cullshad featured image showing a lady angler holding a nice speckled trout next to an image of the Berkley Cullshad in the palm of a hand.

The Berkley PowerBait Unrigged Cullshad Swimbait is my go-to when I want to target big bass with a soft swimbait that gives me flexibility in how I rig and fish it. This bait is unique among soft swimbaits for its tough construction and natural swimming action. I find that it stands out in my tackle … Read more

The New KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reels

KastKing Sharky III Longcast Baitcasting Reel featured image showing a lady angler holding a nice smallmouth bass next to an image of the KastKing Sharky III Reel.

The launch of the KastKing Sharky III Long Cast Reel has caught the attention of a lot of anglers who want longer casting distance without adding extra weight. I’ve spent some time with this reel since its release in September 2025, and I’m excited to walk you through what makes this baitcasting reel worth your … Read more