Hanna Robbins and Jennifer Combs with a cooler full of crappie from Lake Sam Rayburn

The Outdoor Gear We Recommend

We may have a little bit of a hoarding problem. Good gear need not be expensive, but it has to improve the experience in some way. Whether it’s the right rod, a certain bait, or the world’s best rainsuit, we’ll give unfiltered opinions on what we use and why we use it.


No tackle shop on earth provides more specialized gear for bass than Tackle Warehouse. If you want it, they've got it in stock — whether it's a proven winner or the newest items on the market — and their service is exceptional.

Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

Ultra-Premium Spinning Reels for Bass Anglers

I’ve used some of the ultra premium spinning reels in saltwater, but I still didn’t appreciate their value in freshwater until Keith Combs put me on my PB best smallmouth – with a Shimano Stella FK. Perhaps I would’ve landed it with a lesser reel, but the buttery smooth drag definitely helped. If you’re someone who consistently has to use the best-of-the-best, consider one of these options.

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Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

The Fastest Baitcasting Reels -- Feeding the Need for Speed

Here are some of the fastest baitcasting reel options available – while just about every manufacturer has breached the 8:1 barrier, we’re limiting this inquiry to reels that are 9:1 and faster: In other words, at least nine revolutions of the spool every time you turn the handle.

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Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

Packing Reels for Lake El Salto May 2023

After 20 fishing trips to Mexico, I’ve learned that packing an adequate supply of the right reels can make for a more productive trip. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for choosing, but make sure they’re in tiptop shape. I’ve had the opportunity to utilize an incredibly wide range of reels — here’s my selection for May/June 2023.

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