A look at new rods and reels heading into the 2023 open water fishing season

Anglers searching for budget-friendly choices will appreciate the many affordable options that manufacturers are releasing in 2023 – options that won’t leave you sleeping on the couch. Spend a little or spend a lot, but either way, the choices below could last a lifetime (unlike many relationships).

Daiwa | Tatula TWX Combos

The Daiwa Tatula TWX combos were voted “best combo” by tackle shop owners and staff at the recent Big Rock Sports Outdoor Expo – the annual dealer show from one of the nation’s premier sporting goods distributors that supply more than 15,000 retailers.

The Tatula TWS combos have your bass fishing covered with a lineup that includes high-speed 7.3:1 gear ratio Tatula 100CT reels in either right- or left-hand retrieve mounted on a 7-foot or 7-foot, 3-inch Daiwa-designed graphite rods. All four available combos retail for a modest $239.99.

The Tatula TWS combos offer the perfect match for anglers who aspire to fish high-end Tatula reels and rods at a cost that is much more manageable for anglers on a budget – without compromising on a combo that fills up a livewell in a tournament or just fills an angler with joy on a weekend fishing trip with the family. Daiwa.us

Okuma | Ceymar Reels | GLS Steelhead Rods

Okuma’s new Ceymar HD spinning reels are lightweight and feature packed, while built with a corrosion resistant frame, side plate and rotor. Starting at just 6.9 ounces, these lightweight reels feature 7HPG plus 1RB stainless-steel ball bearings, as well as a multi-disc, oiled felt drag system that puts out up to 20 pounds of drag. The Ceymar HD uses Okuma’s HDG-II High-Density Gearing as well as a double ball bearing supported machined brass pinion gear for the ultimate in smoothness.

Also new are GLS Steelhead rods that are built with light and responsive 30-ton carbon rod blanks. With eight models in the GLS Steelhead lineup, there’s an action for anyone. Premium deep press stainless steel Sea Guide frames hold onto oversized Zirconium guide inserts to reduce freezing and increase compatibility with braided or monofilament lines. Okumafishingusa.com

13 Fishing | Inception G2

The Inception G2 is a comprehensive series that pro Gerald Swindle helped design with pro specifications for gearing, handles, gear ratios and line capacities. It has a 22-pound drag with an aluminum star drag and Gen II Hard Anodized Worm Gear. In a word, this reel is tough. Eight total ball bearings and a low friction six-way braking system make the reel smooth and the drag jaw-stopping. EVA Tech Handle knobs are really comfortable and a pleasure for all-day reeling. 13fishing.com

Shimano | SLX A Series

Built for the weekend warrior and seasoned tournament angler alike, the SLX A series of low-profile reels now feature performance-boosting SilentTune technology and come standard with a durable Hagane body for enhanced rigidity and durability. Available in three gear ratios and right- and left-handed models, the SLX A series sets the standard for versatility and performance. Fish.shimano.com

Fenwick | Elite Series

Featuring Powerlux 200 resin and 30-ton graphite, the Elite rods are a combination of lightweight feel and sensitivity with each model featuring proven Fenwick actions that pair perfectly with popular techniques for catching a variety of fish. Combined with the advanced resin technology, other key features include premium high-quality cork, an ergonomic reel seat, Titanium guides with zirconia inserts, and a limited lifetime warranty. Purefishing.com

Vexan | Strikeback Series

The Vexan StrikeBack bass fishing rods are built on a highly sensitive carbon graphite IM8 blank with tapers that help with casting and detecting bites. Durable 316SS ring inserts work great for mono and braided line and for casting comfort the finest Fuji reel seats are standard. You can pair StrikeBack rods with 2000 or 3000 series spinning reels with 3-plus-1 ball bearings with EVA knob or a new high quality 7:1 casting reel that’s built with quality materials, but with an affordable price. Vexan.com

St. Croix | Avid Series | Legend Tournament Bass Series

St. Croix’s new Avid Series panfish rods deliver a combo of elite performance and exceptional value. Made possible by the hybrid SCIII+ carbon blanks enhanced with IPC, ART, TET and FRS technologies. This dedicated panfish series offers nine distinct lengths, powers, and actions with innovative ergonomics. Handcrafted to make panfish anglers better in any presentation or technique.

Also new are St. Croix’s redesigned and comprehensive Legend Tournament Bass Series, which expands to 19 technique-specific casting models and eight spinning models. Featuring all-new lighter and stronger SCIV+ carbon blanks and iACT Glass blanks on select reaction bait-models, new Legend Tournament Bass rods feature refined angler ergonomics and cosmetics, as well as all of St. Croix’s top technologies. Made in the USA and backed by a 15-year warranty. Stcroixrods.com

Kraemer Custom Rods | Joe Pro Custom Series

New for 2023, Joe Pro Kraemer Custom Spinning Rods are built with an all new hybrid cork/eva comfort grip, along with a set of American Tackle Airwave spinning guides, and a made in the USA carbon fiber blank. Built in Wisconsin, one-by-one, anglers who are looking for a custom option that are affordable, have a perfect option. kraemercustomrods.com

Abu Garcia | Revo Series Reels

The Revo Rocket spinning reel is designed for speed and efficiency. Great for deep-water drop-shotting and live sonar. The asymmetrical X-Craftic body is a more compact and the aluminum frame gives added strength. An oversized AMG2 gear system has improved gear strength system with a 7.6:1 gear ratio to move bait fast.

Also new is the Abu Garcia Revo STX Casting Reel, a workhorse for anglers who spend every day on the water. A new asymmetric design and lightweight aluminum frame and handle sideplate make palming a breeze. The IVCB-6 brake system means trouble-free performance and controlled casts while 10 stainless-steel bearings plus one roller bearing keeps things smooth. Comes in 6.6:1 or 8.0:1 gear ratios. Abugarcia.com