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

BUYER'S GUIDE: DROPSHOT FISHING! (WORMS, RODS, AND TERMINAL TACKLE)

Today's Buyers Guide is all about dropshotting for bass! Dropshot fishing is a core technique that every serious angler needs to master. Today we're exploring how different worms create different actions to help you catch fish in varying conditions. We're also exploring rods and terminal tackle that shine with this technique.

Dropshot fishing is very simple. Suspend a worm (or other plastic) above your weight and shake it to draw fish in. But that's just the beginning of this giant category! There are different worm shapes and styles, different hook shapes and wire sizes, and that's before we get into the rods and equipment. Today the guys are breaking down their favorite baits for different situations and explaining how each one should be rigged.

Below you'll find links to the baits, terminal tackle, and rods we showed throughout the video. We've listed them in the order they appeared and included favorite sizes and colors for each. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each.

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

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: High End Rods And Reels– https://youtu.be/obxNp48IALo

Buyer's Guide: Best 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: Ned Rig– https://youtu.be/h6412dxtzHE

PADDLE TAIL WORMS...

•Big Bite Baits Scentsation Smasher: https://bit.ly/2ZpCOCY

Size: 3.5"

Colors: Bully, Smashed Goby, Smoke Black Purple

•MIssileBaits BombShot: https://bit.ly/2YYBipr

Size: 4"

Colors: Fishalicious, Goby Bite

STRAIGHT WORMS...

•Missile Baits Magic Worm: https://bit.ly/3T7dHgB

Size: 6"

Colors: PB&J Time, Watermelon Violet, Hammer Emoji

•Netbait Flat Sided Shad: https://bit.ly/3OBN9AW

Size: 5.5"

Colors: Green Pumpkin/Watermelon Lam, Killer G, Shiner

FINESSE PROFILE WORMS...

•Reins Bubbling Shaker: https://bit.ly/3OMsKMs

Size: 3.5"

Colors: Green Pumpkin, Natural Pro Blue

•Great Lakes Finesse Drop Minnow: https://bit.ly/4fn640d

Size: 3.25"

Colors: Crush Shad, Green Pumpkin, Gizzard Shad

•Xzone Stealth Finesse Minnow: https://bit.ly/3yAOQfo

Size: 2.75"

Colors: Moon Dust, Pro Blue Red Pearl, Big Limit

JDM BAITS...

•GeeCrack Bellows Shad: https://bit.ly/3E4zVdl

Size: 2.8" - 3.8"

Colors: Electric Shad, Green Pumpkin Blue, AJ's Juice

•OSP Dice Rubber: https://bit.ly/4e0DII9

Colors: Fred's Candy, Smoke Lemon, Suji Ebi

DROPSHOT HOOKS...

Light Wire– Owner Mosquito Light (Size 2): http://bit.ly/2zQVKx3

Heavy Wire– BKK DSS Worm Hook (Size 1/0): https://bit.ly/41YruKp

Weedless– Owner Cover Shot (Size 1/0): https://bit.ly/2ISr7bR

Heavy Cover– Owner Cover Shot HD (Size 2/0): https://bit.ly/36Gunbf

TERMINAL BOX...

•Spro Terminal Box: https://bit.ly/3L9Y03F

Size: X-Large

DROPSHOT WEIGHTS...

•Xzone Tungsten Skinny Weight: https://bit.ly/40NDHjT

Sizes: 3/16 - 1/4 oz

•Reins Tungsten Tie–On Skinny Weight: https://bit.ly/3trRvVU

Sizes: 3/16 - 3/8 oz

•Xzone Teardrop Weights: https://bit.ly/3HgdcMM

Size: 3/16 - 1/4 oz

FAVORITE DROPSHOT COMBO...

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

Reel– Shimano Stella FJ 2500: https://bit.ly/2U8Pkzg

Line– Sunline SX1 10 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2tn8EzQ

Leader– Seaguar Gold Label (6 lb): https://bit.ly/3UqrUbi

BANG FOR THE BUCK DROPSHOT COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Expride B 6'10"" ML: https://bit.ly/3AFcaFF

Reel– Shimano Sustain FJ 2500: https://bit.ly/3BQLlNP

Line– Power Pro Braid 10 lb: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b

Leader– Sunline Super FC 6 lb: http://bit.ly/2p7fxju

CASTING DROPSHOT COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Expride B 6'10" Medium: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Reel– Shimano Curado 70 MGL (HG): https://bit.ly/2apmDJt

Line– Sufix 131 Braid (30 lb): https://bit.ly/314VoyF

Leader– Seaguar Blue Label (12 lb): https://bit.ly/48EP2Hz

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

BUYER'S GUIDE: UNIQUE A–RIGS, ALABAMA RIGS, RIGGING TRICKS, AND GEAR!

Today we're covering new innovations that completely change Alabama Rig Fishing! From lightweight rigs you can cast with BFS gear, to completely clear rigs, there are unique offerings in this category that will take the wariest Anti–Rig fisherman, and give them something to consider.

Alabama Rigs are an amazing tool to target big, lethargic fish. The way bass react to this schooling presentation is unlike any other lure. The downside of these rigs is how cumbersome they are to cast and retrieve! We've worked hard to develop rigs that are comfortable to fish, durable, and effective.

Below you'll find links to the exact rigs, baits, and components discussed in the video. All 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: Best Jigs And Jig Trailers– https://youtu.be/OQwFNTORnN4

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

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 Combos– https://youtu.be/obxNp48IALo

TACTICAL BLADED RIGS...

•Hog Farmer Tactical MICRO Flex (Bladed): https://bit.ly/3RY1wUK

•Hog Farmer Tactical MINI Flex (Bladed): https://bit.ly/3uwY6Md

•Hog Farmer Tactical Flex Rig (Bladed): https://bit.ly/38xd1es

TACTICAL NON BLADED RIGS...

•Hog Farmer Tactical MICRO Flex (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3Rui7Oc

•Hog Farmer Tactical MINI Flex (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3isTio0

•Hog Farmer Tactical Flex Rig (Non Bladed): https://bit.ly/3vhpSez

OTHER ALABAMA RIGS...

•Stealth Lures Stealth Rig: https://bit.ly/4hkGtpQ

•Yum Flash Mob Jr: https://bit.ly/2bgDGNu

SWIMBAIT HEADS (Largest To Smallest)...

•Matt Allen Swimbait Head: https://bit.ly/29RrTYN

Recommended Size: 1/8 – 3/8 oz

•TacticalBassin Screwed Up Swimbait Head: https://bit.ly/3U5RsIx

Recommended Size: 1/8 – 3/8 oz

•ZMan Trout Eye Finesse Head: https://bit.ly/3C7H1iL

Recommended Size: 1/8 oz

•Megabass Okashira Head: https://bit.ly/3RNNZxK

Recommended Size: 1/8 oz

•Dirty Jigs Guppy Head: https://bit.ly/2nyUJRS

Recommended Size: 1/8 oz

REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS AND TOOLS…

•Owner Hyperwire Split Rings: http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX

Size: 4

•Owner CPS Spring: http://bit.ly/2b2YgDf

Size: Medium

•Texas Tackle Executive Split Ring Pliers: http://bit.ly/2fT4Qw0

SWIMBAITS FOR MICRO RIG…

•Damiki Armor Shad: http://bit.ly/2KtPDAT

Size: 3”

Colors: American Shad, Pure Gill

•XZone Swammer: http://bit.ly/2PogV0q

Size: 2.75"

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl

SWIMBAITS FOR MINI AND FLEX RIG...

•XZone Swammer: http://bit.ly/2PogV0q

Size: 3.5 - 4.75”

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl, Sexy Shad

•Keitech Fat Swing Impact: http://bit.ly/2ab7s8v

Sizes: 3.8" - 4.8"

Color: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl

DUMMY BAITS (Non Hooked)…

•Damiki Armor Shad: http://bit.ly/2KtPDAT

Size: 3”

Colors: American Shad, Pure Gill

•Netbait Little Spanky: http://bit.ly/2d0dpU8

Colors: Albino, Smokin Shad

RIG STORAGE...

•Rig Rangler: https://bit.ly/3DqKUw2

•Rod Glove XL Sleeve: http://bit.ly/2GFOT9R

•TW Alabama Rig Bag: https://bit.ly/3Z1xAbH

FLEX RIG COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Expride 7’7” Heavy: https://bit.ly/32IrXqE

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

Line– Sufix 832 Braid (65 lb): https://bit.ly/3vbtuDw

Leader– Sunline Saltimate 20 lb: https://bit.ly/3oT1oq2

MINI RIG COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Zodias 7’5” Medium heavy: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Reel– Shimano Curado 150 MGL (HG): https://bit.ly/2TQHwrP

Line– Power Pro Maxcuatro 65 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ

Leader– Seaguar Blue Label (20 lb): https://bit.ly/48EP2Hz

MICRO RIG COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Curado 6'10" Medium: https://bit.ly/2gUWTft

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

Line– Sufix 832 Braid (30 lb): https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

Leader– Seaguar Gold Label (12 lb): https://bit.ly/3UqrUbi

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

Bass Fishing Gear Review! New Rods, BFS Baits, Bait Designs, and Swimbaits!

These new rods and baits are incredible!! From XZone's new bait finesse line, to the new Bucca Trick Shad swimbait, to some incredible strolling options from Hog Farmer, Netbait, and Owner, these are the best product launches we've ever seen this time of year!

Come along as Matt takes a deep dive into all of this awesome new gear! We work tirelessly to test all the new gear that comes to market so you don't have to. Whether you're looking for a new rod, new storage solutions, or just want to keep up with the current bait trends in bass fishing, you can rely on us to find the best of the best!

Below you'll find links to the gear Matt discussed in the video. We've included our favorite sizes and colors where relevant to help you make the most informed choices when shopping for new tackle. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

NEW RODS...

•Shimano Expride B Casting Rod: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Model: 7'4" Heavy Moderate

•Shimano Expride B Spinning Rods: https://bit.ly/2osaj3q

Models: 6'10" MH Extra Fast, 6'10" M Extra Fast

•Shimano Poison Adrena Spinning Rod: https://bit.ly/4c0fQmq

Model: 6'10" Medium + Extra Fast

XZONE STEALTH FINESSE SERIES...

•XZone Stealth Finesse Craw: https://bit.ly/4ckYPmX

Colors: Big Limit, Green Pumpkin Blue Flake

•Xzone Stealth Finesse Creature: https://bit.ly/3M0BXOU

Colors: Grass Craw, Black Blue Flake/Green Pumpkin

•Xzone Stealth Finesse Minnow: https://bit.ly/3yAOQfo

Colors: Moon Dust, Pro Blue Red Pearl

•Xzone 2.25" Stealth Finesse Tube: https://bit.ly/3yEr6aj

Colors: Great Lakes Sand, Green Pumpkin Blue

•Xzone Stealth Finesse Tube Head: https://bit.ly/3WY18YM

Favorite Sizes: 3/16 oz, 1/4 oz

HOG FARMER BAITS...

•Hog Farmer 3" Spunk Shad: https://bit.ly/2UFkCD7

Colors: Electric Shad, Ghost Minnow

•Hog Farmer 4" Stroll Shad: https://bit.ly/3ALs7OI

Colors: Ghost Minnow, Electric Shad, Blue Gizzard

JIGHEADS...

•Owner Round XL: Available Soon

Sizes: 8 Gram, 10 Gram

NETBAIT MINNOW...

•Netbait Baitfuel EKO Shad: https://bit.ly/3YFm3Rq

Colors: Real Shad, Green Shad, Electric Shad

GLIDE BAIT...

•Bucca Brand 6" Trick Shad: Available Soon

Colors: Threadfintastic, Gizzard Magic

LINE STORAGE...

•Seaguar Line And Leader Management Bags: https://bit.ly/3yb17XZ

Sizes...

•3x3 (Small leader spools)

•4x4 (Standard Spools)

•7X4 (Standard Spools)

•Seaguar Bulk Line Management Bag: https://bit.ly/4c6mlny

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