Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo

I've been putting my Ugly Stik GX2 (Medium, 6'6", 2-piece, with the size 35 reel) through its paces for the last few months, and let me tell you — this rod punches way above its price point. Right off the bat, I’ll say this: I'm using the older version, and even though it's not marketed specifically for saltwater, this thing holds up like a beast. I've taken it out to the coast, fishing off rocks and shoreline, and it's handled salt spray, gritty sand, and long sessions without a single issue. Just rinse it down, and it's good to go. Performance-wise? Smooth and reliable. The action is responsive but forgiving — perfect for everything from small jacks to porgy and even the surprise stingray I wasn’t expecting. The reel feels solid, drag holds steady under pressure, and the two-piece design makes it super convenient for transport without compromising strength. Also — this rod is deceptively strong. It bends but doesn’t break. I’ve had it bow real low under a decent fight and it kept its composure the entire time. Ugly Stik’s signature Clear Tip adds confidence, especially when you're not sure what you're pulling up from the deep. 🔹 Pros: Rugged build — feels like it’ll last forever Great sensitivity and backbone balance Handles light saltwater duty well with care Comfortable grip for long sessions Perfect travel size for bank and pier fishers 🔸 Cons: Reel isn’t sealed (as expected) — rinse religiously if you're hitting salt Slightly heavier than graphite rods (but honestly, I like the weight — feels sturdy) This is the kind of rod that grows on you. Whether you're a casual weekend angler or someone getting serious about fishing without breaking the bank, the GX2 just makes sense. It’s a budget-friendly workhorse that earns its keep — and then some. If you’re on the fence, just get it. I’ve caught memories on this rod, not just fish.

I have been steady using this rod for 2 years now, all I can say is it’s the best all around rod. I’ve caught perch, catfish,even turtles (unintentionally) (personal fav) bass all kinds. I matched it with the braided line 30lb 150yards, works a charm. Never have any back lash. Anything that gets tangled is easily undone, I’ve used this in ponds, in lakes. You name it I’ve used it. I’ve bought other rods as (play) rods if you will and I always find myself going right back to my gx2 the cast is without a doubt the best in the market. The rod splits into two if I need to take it somewhere. It’s light weight but not the durability this thing can pull some monsters. Biggest I pulled in was an 8lb didn’t need a net anything after you’ll need a net. The rod is all around one of the best things I am literally buying another as we speak hence why I came back to write a review. Beyond amazing between the cast I get about 50 yards (pushing it with a weighted hook and that’s it) so the cast is smooth nice and goes, the flexibility as you get bit, I mean you can feel every chop. And yes you can pull up the cats, picture above is some of many catches with this rod! Save yourself the time and money and buy this rod you’ll thank me later!!

I bought the Ugly Stik GX2 6’6” spinning combo with the size 35 reel, and I couldn’t be happier. The rod is strong yet lightweight, and it’s very comfortable to use—especially for someone like me who’s just getting into fishing. The build quality is excellent. It feels durable and flexible, which makes it ideal for both freshwater and light saltwater fishing. The reel operates smoothly, and the overall balance of the combo is spot on. I’ve used it from the shore and from piers, and it’s performed great every time. It also looks really sleek and feels like it’s built to last. Highly recommend it if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable setup that can handle a variety of fishing situations.

The rod is fine - an Ugly Stik: durable and exceptionally useful for bait fishing where a bit more strength is needed. The reel was terrible. I had intended to make use of the reel till it gave out but I'm aware of it's reliability as it's making a strange crackling noise. Looking around and comparing it to my many other reels, I had noticed that the noise was from the right side of the handle. It seems to be missing a bearing or whatever is used by Ugly Stik reels (not labeled shakespeare). The video demonstrates the reel producing crackling noises when reeling at medium intervals - this isn't the drag that is clicking. The bearing may seems to be missing a seal, damaged or something. Four stars since the rod was good. Minus one star as the reel has got some complications.. I intend to keep the combo though and hopefully find some alternative parts (for this rod and perhaps my other Ugly Stik or Shakespeare reels.

The first day I took this out, I used it to haul in a pretty decent 22" largemouth. A dozen casts later, the line roller popped off and fell into the water, ending my fishing trip. I contacted Shakespeare customer service, and they wanted me to mail them the reel, pictures, receipts, etc., so they could evaluate the problem. The turnaround time is 6-8 weeks, and their web site says there's a $9.95 servicing fee. So between the fee and shipping, I'd be out $20 on a $45 combo, plus the wait. I don't want to return it to Amazon, either, because the rod is nice and I really don't want to figure out how to ship a fishing rod anyway. I'm just going to buy a different, non-Shakespeare reel. The combo casts okay, and the rod handled that big fish well, but if you buy this combo, cross your fingers and hope that quality control did a better job with yours than they did with mine.

Great durability the reel is super smooth it’s light and is a good deal

Have always had a good experience with ugly stik rods, this one is no different. I have had absolutely no problem with the reel, I think some people just don’t take the right preventative measures to avoid birds nests in the spool. I have the 6’6 medium action and it works well for bass and pretty much any freshwater species, casts really far too. I almost feel like i could surf cast for striper with this thing it casts so nice, but I pretty much just use it as my cheaper freshwater setup while I’m at college. Don’t see why you couldn’t though. It’s a versitale rod and reel combo for an affordable price, and I plan on buying a few more for back home. You could obviously get a nicer reel but there is nothing wrong with the combo as is.

Love it!

Not tried yet but looking forward to. This was late arriving due to an issue with the original courier, however the seller was quick to repond when contacted and sorted it all out from their end. Took just over 2 1/2 weeks to arrive. I would buy from them again though. Checked it all over and no issues. UglyStiks are built to last though.

Una vara excelente para comenzar con la pesca, la he utilizado para castear de orilla, lancha, y en las escolleras en playa Miramar, no le he dado el mejor trato e igual no me ha dejado abajo, levanto un Sargo de 2 kilos sin problema con la pura vara a falta de red, el carrete la verdad es un pequeño guerrero, un freno excelente y recuperación rápida, no es muy suave que digamos y si es algo delicado con el agua salada, pero es de esperarse para un combo de estas características. La vara la volvería a comprar el carrete podría ser mejor.

Awesome rod for the money. No complaints with the reel. I used it for pike fishin. Got 20 lb braided on the reel, it casts smooth and had no issues pullin up large pike. The price was cheaper than cabelas.

Excelente producto acabo de sacar una lubina de 5 kilos y sin tema de que aiga problemas con el producto, SALUDOS

Upgraded to this rod and haven't had any issues yet. I chose this rod for its known durability, and all-around use for all types of fish. It is sensitive enough that I've been able to catch 4 inch brook trout on multiple occasions, albeit unintentionally, as well as 5lbs rainbow trout. I intend to use this on salmon, and unlike the previous rod I had purchased, I will be confident that this rod will not break. For the price, the quality of construction of the rod --it is an easy decision. One gripe I have about it is the reel does not have a reverse switch. Although made of aluminium, the cap seems to be made of flimsy plastic. I do not mind so much, as it is my first rod. An additional point to note is that the black grip is made from some type of hard sponge material which, because it has fine pores, easily traps any dirt and grime on it (trout dough!). Despite these two minor issues, I think it deserves a full 5/5 and I look forward to beginning my fishing hobby on the right foot with the right company.