Early Spring Gear Review 2025! Rods, Reels, Tackle And Gear!

This is the hottest new gear in bass fishing for 2025! We've been testing a ton of new gear the past few months and these are the clear stand outs! From the new Shimano Outlier Series, to Aftco's Fortress Suit, to a variety of reels, baits, and tackle, these are the best new items we've found! Let's take a look!

This is our first gear review of 2025 and it's packed with amazing gear! We've been busily testing rods, reels, and baits, throughout Fall and Winter. Most baits didn't make the cut, but these gems earned their place! These new Strolling options are must haves, and the chatterbait trailers speak for themselves. For the swimbait anglers we've got the new Tranx 300 B, and the whole Shimano Outlier series! For those in the armed forces, or who want to support those that are, the Abu Garcia Zata Tact Z is an awesome addition!

Below you'll find links to all our favorite gear that was featured in this video. We've listed them in the order they appeared, and included all relevant information on favorite colors, sizes, etc. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.


TACTICAL APPAREL...

•New TacticalBassin Gear: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

New Items: Hoodies, Hats, Beanies


AFTCO GEAR...

•Aftco Fortress Rain Jacket: https://bit.ly/42LrGQ8


•Aftco Fortress Rain Bibs: https://bit.ly/4aPp45O


•Aftco Packable Transformer Jacket: https://bit.ly/3t4y4lP


•Aftco Packable Transformer Pants: https://bit.ly/3Zzy89y


SHIMANO TRANX...

•Shimano Tranx 300 B: https://bit.ly/40QzQ7b

Favorite Speed: 7:1 (HG)


SHIMANO OUTLIER ROD SERIES...

•Shimano Outlier Rods: https://bit.ly/3EuHPiT


7'4" MH Baits: S–Waver, 6" Trick Shad, Flag, 6" Magdraft

7'9" MH+ Baits: 7" Trick Shad, TK, Chad Shad, Toxic Gill

7'10" H+ Baits: Hinkle Shad, Phoney, K9, 8" Magdraft

7'11" H Baits: Citizen 6"–7", Bacca Burrito, Tyrant 9, Loose Caboose

8' XH Baits: 8" Hudd, SlideSwimmer 250, Hawghunter Mag, Tyrant 10

8' XXH Baits: Hinkle Trout, DRT Ghost, Roman Made Mother, DRT Frenzy


ABU GARCIA REEL...

•Abu Garcia Zata Tact Z: https://bit.ly/3B8E7Ks

Favorite Speed: 7.1:1


STROLL SHAD...

•Hog Farmer 5" Stroll Shad: https://bit.ly/3ALs7OI

Favorite Colors: Electric Shad, Ghost Minnow, Green Shad


Pairing– Dirty Jigs HD Tungsten Guppy: https://bit.ly/3WCfvSn

Size: 1/4 oz


OWNER HEAD...

•Owner Round Ball XL: https://bit.ly/3Et1q33

Favorite Sizes: 5/16 oz – 4/0, 3/8 oz – 5/0


CHATTERBAIT TRAILER...

•ZMan ChatterShad: https://bit.ly/4jPaGOX

Favorite Colors: Bad Shad, Electric Shad, The Deal


YAMAMOTO SWIMBAIT...

•Yamamoto Shad Shape Swimmer: https://bit.ly/4hOE5al

Sizes: 3.2", 3.7", 4.2"

Favorite Colors: Green Gizzard, Natural Shad, Rainbow Shad


TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

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The Best Fishing Rod For EVERY Technique! ( Beginner To Advanced + Rod Actions )

Everything you need to know about fishing rods! From how to get the most out of budget rods, to the meanings of rod action and power codes. Tim is showing everything you need to know to get the best fishing rods for your favorite techniques, regardless of your budget!

Fishing gear is expensive and the truth is, most anglers just guess when buying a rod. You're at the mercy of a tackle shop employee or an online review as you spend spend hard earned money on a new rod. It doesn't have to be that way! Understanding ratings, codes, and how popular brands differ, will take all the guess work out so you can make the best selections for your fishing style.

Below you'll find links to many of our favorite rods, separated by technique. We've also included a few budget friendly rods as well. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.


IF YOU COULD ONLY HAVE ONE...

Casting Rod– Shimano SLX 7'2" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Casting Reel– Shimano SLX A 150 (HG): https://bit.ly/2NfdOnk


Spinning Rod– Fenwick HMG 7'1" Medium XFast: https://bit.ly/4cXBAjD

Spinning Reel– Daiwa Legalis LT 2500D–XH: https://bit.ly/3Y0kDh3


BRAIDED LINE...

Budget– Power Pro Braid: https://bit.ly/2aFg46b

Affordable– Sufix 832: https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

Refined– Seaguar PEX8: https://bit.ly/3UEhhl2


Spinning– 10-15 lb Line

Casting– 40 lb Line


FAVORITE CASTING RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Jig (Pitch and Flip)– Shimano Expride B 7'4" Heavy Mod Fast: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Jig (Football)– G Loomis GLX 844C MBR: http://bit.ly/2gqziwT

Jerkbait– Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: https://bit.ly/32IrXqE

Alabama Rig– Shimano Zodias 7'5" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Chatterbait– Megabass P5 Destroyer 7'2" Daemos: https://bit.ly/3wHoXpD

Spinnerbait– St. Croix Legend Tournament 7’3” MH Fast: https://bit.ly/3Iow9KV

Heavy Flipping– Shimano Expride 7'11" XH: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Weightless Worms– Megabass P5 Dark Sleeper: https://bit.ly/2wVOSbY

Tail Spin/Blade– Shimano Expride 7’2” Medium LIght: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Keitech (4.8)– Fenwick World Class 7'3" Medium Heavy XFast: https://bit.ly/3qbGEya

Underspin (Finesse)– Daiwa Steez AGS 7'6" Med Med Light: https://bit.ly/44wVwFk

Big Swimbait– G Loomis IMX Pro 966 SWBR: https://bit.ly/3ktZFnF

Lipless Crankbait– G Loomis IMX Pro 855C CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Deep Crank (Tight Action)– G Loomis IMX Pro 906 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Deep Crank (All Around)– Shimano Zodias 7'6" MH Glass: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Squarebill– Megabass Levante "Flat Side Special": https://bit.ly/2FdE3YY

Frog– Shimano Expride 7'3" Extra Heavy: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Bait Finesse– Cashion Icon 6'10" Medium Light Fast: https://bit.ly/3mLIIes

Spoon– St. Croix Legend Elite 7'4" Heavy: http://bit.ly/2z2qdHc

Texas Rig– Shimano Poison Adrena 7'3" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/4cVIwOI

Topwater– G Loomis GLX 843C MBR: https://bit.ly/2gqziwT


FAVORITE SPINNING RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Strolling– Expride 6'10" Medium XFast (Solid Tip): https://bit.ly/2osaj3q

Dropshot– G Loomis NRX+ 822S DSR: https://bit.ly/2RB0oJP

Ned Rig– G Loomis NRX+ 821S DSR: https://bit.ly/2RB0oJP

Tube– St. Croix Legend Elite 7'6" Medium: http://bit.ly/2pjJWMA

Northern Hair Jig– St. Croix Victory 7'10" Med Light: https://bit.ly/2RPMkfV


FAVORITE BUDGET RODS BY TECHNIQUE...

Jerkbait– Shimano SLX 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2mGp1Vc

All Around Crankbait– St. Croix Mojo Glass 7'4" MH: https://bit.ly/2YIxLy5

Lipless Crankbait– St. Croix Black Bass 7'2" Med Hvy Mod: https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

Jig– Fenwick Eagle 7'3" Medium Heavy Fast: https://bit.ly/4b25LGh

Texas Rig– Daiwa Tatula XT 7’3” MH Fast: https://bit.ly/3wqRhwq

All Around– Shimano SLX 7'2" Medium Heavy: http://bit.ly/2mGp1Vc

Dropshot/Ned Rig– St. Croix Bass X 6'10" Med Light X Fast: https://bit.ly/3xi0ren

Topwater (Walking)– Abu Garcia Veritas 7' Medium Fast: https://bit.ly/3CGiPVg

Topwater (Popper) – St. Croix Bass X 6'8" Medium X Fast: https://bit.ly/3A5CFSU

Big Swimbait– Savage Gear 8' Heavy Squad: https://bit.ly/3tT8bS2

Frog– Daiwa Tatula 7’4” Heavy Frog: http://bit.ly/2Q4NgKA


WANT TACTICALBASSIN GEAR??

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

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Humminbird Mega Live 2 ( On The Water Real World Test and Sonar Settings )

Let's head out on the water for a first look at Humminbird's NEW Mega Live 2 Forward Facing Sonar transducer! We've just installed this unit and are checking it out before we even finish dialing it in! Our first priority is to see its bait tracking abilities, how it does with target separation, and to get a look at all the new color palettes we've been hearing about! Take a look and let us know what you think in the comments!

Our first impression is, it's a HUGE improvement over the original Mega Live! This new Mega Live 2 is superior in every way, with incredible clarity and drastically improved bait tracking! It's hard to choose a favorite color palette but if we had to choose two to get started, it would be Alabama Amber and Doppler. Also, pay close attention to Tim's sonar settings if you're looking for a starting place as you dial in your new Live 2.

We'll let you make your own judgement based on the footage, but from what we can see, Humminbird has a WINNER with this new Live 2! Whether you use FFS technology to locate structures and speed up your search for fish, or you're isolating single fish and targeting them with a Strolling bait, this new transducer has the ability to help you fish more effectively.

Below you'll find links to all the gear Tim used in today's video. From the Live 2 Transducer, to the Target Lock, to the electronics he uses to get these images. We've also included some great budget friendly units as well. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.


MEGA LIVE 2...

•Humminbird Mega Live 2 Transducer: https://bit.ly/40FHMJR


TARGET LOCK TURRET...

•Humminbird Mega Live TargetLock Adapter Kit: https://bit.ly/3DWobfm


TIM'S HUMMINBIRD UNITS...

•Humminbird Apex 16 Fishfinder: https://bit.ly/3QBaOli

•Humminbird Apex 13 Fishfinder: https://bit.ly/3pdaK1q


THE LATEST BUDGET FRIENDLY UNITS...

•Humminbird Xplore 12 Fishfinder: https://bit.ly/4jjdcwJ

•Humminbird Xplore 10 Fishfinder: https://bit.ly/4hmChFf

•Humminbird Xplore  9 Fishfinder: https://bit.ly/4hl9tgy


TIM’S TROLLING MOTOR...

*MinnKota Ultrex Quest 115 lbs: https://bit.ly/41RErpY

Shaft Length: 52"

WANT TACTICALBASSIN GEAR??

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

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BUYER'S GUIDE: BEST CASTING REELS (BUDGET TO ENTHUSIAST BAITCASTERS)

Let's dive into the world of Baitcasting Reels! Whether you're looking for an affordable casting reel, or you need a high end reel to pair up for the perfect combo, we've got you covered! From incredibly light to incredibly strong, from precision to durability, these are the best options we've found! There are a ton of great bait casters from a variety of brands, let's go!

Yesterday's spinning reel video only had a few brands. When it comes to casting reels, the flood gates open! There are a ton of great reels from a variety of brands. Price, durability, and smooth operation, combine to create the best baitcasting reels at every price point. Whether you're just getting started, or you're a seasoned angler, this information will help you find the best reel in your budget.

Below you'll find links to all the reels in today's video. We've also included our favorite retrieve speed for each reel. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.


PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

Buyer's Guide: $100 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/2eCEb3G3VE0

Buyer's Guide: $200 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/AcrTDhtaSQg

Buyer's Guide: $300 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/aFhefLwNHGQ

Buyer's Guide: $500 Rod And Reel Combos– https://youtu.be/WAgpVnuE800

Buyer's Guide: High End Rods And Reels– https://youtu.be/obxNp48IALo

Buyer's Guide: Chatterbaits And Trailers– https://youtu.be/14NqxFIWGgo

Buyer's Guide: Alabama Rigs– https://youtu.be/wPm3izTumxk

Buyer's Guide: Strolling– https://youtu.be/EVnMJWMtZhE

Buyer's Guide: Boating Accessories– https://youtu.be/nl73iuYQ2dg

Buyer's Guide: Spinning Reels– https://youtu.be/Ua7pEd04ikw


SEVIIN...

•Seviin GF: https://bit.ly/3qa2SQZ

Speed: 7.3:1


LEWS...

•LEWS KVD LFS: https://bit.ly/3BwkvMA

Speed: 7.5:1


13 FISHING...

•13 Fishing Concept C2: https://bit.ly/2NlzZhg

Speed: 7.5:1


ABU GARCIA...

•Abu Garcia Max Pro: https://bit.ly/3QKCQOG

Speed: 7.1:1


•Abu Garcia SX LP: https://bit.ly/40nsz0i

Speed: 7.3:1


•Abu Garcia REVO Inshore LP: https://bit.ly/3YDNsSu

Speed: 7.3:1


ABU GARCIA BAIT FINESSE...

•Abu Garcia REVO X BFS: https://bit.ly/4flqwi3

Speed: 7.3:1


•Abu Garcia Zenon MGX LTX BFS: https://bit.ly/4aSBckW

Speed: 8.3:1


DAIWA...

•Daiwa CC 80: https://bit.ly/34ltqP9

Speed: 7.5:1


•Daiwa CA80: https://bit.ly/3hprTgv

Speed: 7.5:1


•Daiwa Fuego CT: https://bit.ly/35hugfH

Speed: 7.3:1


•Daiwa Tatula SV TW 70: https://bit.ly/3ZcBbCZ

Speed: 7.1:1


•Daiwa Zillion SV TW G: https://bit.ly/3xobPDM

Speed: 7.1:1


•Daiwa Steez 70 CT SV TW: https://bit.ly/3esUZjg

Speed: 7.1:1


DAIWA BAIT FINESSE...

•Daiwa Tatula BF 70 BF: https://bit.ly/4b7UbYM

Speed: 8.1:1


•Daiwa PX BF 70 BF: https://bit.ly/3y0fWw0

Speed: 8.6:1


SHIMANO FULL FRAME REELS...

•Shimano SLX A 150: https://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

Speed: 7.2:1


•Shimano SLX XT A: https://bit.ly/3YgnWE8

Speed: 7.2:1


•Shimano Curado 150 MGL: https://bit.ly/2TQHwrP

Speed: 7.4:1


•Shimano Bantam MGL A: https://bit.ly/2H44yjG

Speed: 7.1:1


•Shimano Metanium MGL 150 B: https://bit.ly/2ezIBfB

Speed: 7.1:1


SHIMANO FINESSE FRAME REELS...

•Shimano SLX 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/3gIUCgJ

Speed: 7.2:1


•Shimano Curado 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/2apmDJt

Speed: 7.4:1


•Shimano Aldebaran 50 MGL: https://bit.ly/2fdX1Uy

Speed: 7.4:1


•Shimano Metanium DC A 70: https://bit.ly/49al91d

Speed: 7.1:1


SHIMANO BAIT FINESSE REELS...

•Shimano Curado BFS: https://bit.ly/2QGRVF2

Speed: 8.2:1


•Shimano Aldebaran BFS: https://bit.ly/3ryXKpR

Speed: 7.8:1


TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to hats and hoodies! Its all available direct through Tackle Warehouse with fast shipping. See it here... 

TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

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