The BEST Rod and Reel Combos For Inshore Fishing

In this article, you’ll learn about 3 rod and reel setups that are designed for inshore saltwater fishing. 

Like many fishermen, in my dream world, I would have a few hundred rods all designed for targeting specific species. Different lengths, actions, and strengths, put together for their own specific reason. Unfortunately, there are some limitations that do not allow this to happen. Not to worry! Inshore fishing can be affordable and easily accessible to those who live on the coast. We’ll show you 3 top-rated saltwater fishing rods and reel combos based on your targeted species.

What is inshore fishing?

Inshore fishing refers to fishing within the first few miles of shore, where the depth of the water is not nearly as deep as it would be offshore. With much shallower water, inshore fishing is much calmer and easily accessible for many anglers. Typically, anglers will use smaller water crafts such as kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and boats to access these fishing waters. Inshore and offshore fishing also offer different types of targeted fish species.

Types of Inshore Fish

Inshore species are some of the most fun fish to target, fight, and catch. One of the most popular species on the East coast - especially here in the Southeast - is the red drum, also known as the redfish. Redfish are very active feeders that primarily feast on fiddler crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Whether you are a beginner angler or have years of experience, these fish are popular for a reason.

Other inshore species include speckled sea trout, flounder, sheepshead, tarpon, & snook. Saltwater anglers are lucky enough to be able to fish some of the best fisheries this country has to offer and chase extremely aggressive and entertaining fish.

Best Rod & Reel Setup For Redfish and Trout

For redfish and trout, it is important to have a high-quality saltwater rod and reel. Due to the fact that redfish can grow up to in the 45-inch range, you’ll need to make sure you have a rod and reel that can manage. 

The best rod for redfish and trout is our 7’2’’ Medium Heavy / Fast Spinning Rod. It is an excellent medium-heavy weight fishing rod that will handle some pretty large fish. This rod is the ideal length and offers a sturdy backbone while having a sensitive enough tip to feel every bump and bury the hook with ease.

A strong and durable saltwater reel is VERY important. We suggest pairing the rod with our 3000 Elite Carbon Series reel. When fighting a redfish or trout, it is vital that you have a durable drag system and proper line capacity . Built with an IPX5 sealed system, carbon rotor, and carbon handle - these reels are perfect for saltwater inshore fishing.

In short, for redfish and trout, the best rod and reel setup is:

• Medium Heavy Rod
• Fast Action
• Around 7 foot length
• 3000-4000 size reel

Best Rod & Reel Setup For Sheepshead and Flounder

For sheepshead and flounder fishing, we recommend anglers choose a short, stout rod with medium fast action in order to feel the delicate bite of a sheepshead. 

Our 5’11’’ Medium Extra-Fast Spinning Rod was designed specifically for the type of fishing you’re aiming for. Known as the “Convict Rod”, this rod offers you everything you’ll need to be successful in targeting sheepshead.

As for reel, we suggest paring with our 2500 Elite Carbon Series Reel for the ultimate rod and reel combo. With 16 lb. drag and IPX5 sealed system, this reel is perfect for sheepshead fishing in tidal waters.

Sheepshead and Flounder fishing rod & reel setup:

• Medium Rod
• Extra-Fast Action
• Roughly 6 feet long
• 2500-3000 size reel

Best Rod & Reel Setup For Snook

Snook fishing rods come in all different shapes and sizes. Although there are many options out there, we recommend a good all-around rod and reel setup that you can count on. In general, a great Snook fishing combo includes a rod around 7 feet in length, moderate to fast action, and medium power. 

Our 7’2’’ Medium / Extra Fast Rod or 7’4’’ Medium Light / Fast Rod are exactly what you’ll need to pull a Snook out of the mangroves and land them. These rods are not too stiff and not too flimsy. They have a solid structure with a sensitive rod tip that is ideal when throwing the necessary baits and lures to catch Snook. 

Much like a redfish and trout reel, you’ll need a solid drag system and good line capacity. The best thing about the Toadfish Elite Carbon Series reels is that they are lightweight and durable, which makes it easier to cast lures or bait. For the rods previously mentioned, we suggest pairing with our 2500 size reel. 

Medium-sized Snook Rod and Reel Setup:

• Medium Light / Medium Power Rod
• Fast Action
• 7-8 feet length
• 2500-3000 size reel