Contrary to what the name might suggest, there is nothing unattractive about Ugly Stik products.
If anything, the company manufactures some of the most gorgeous-looking fishing equipment you can find anywhere on the market.
But beyond aesthetics, Ugly Stik makes incredibly durable and high-quality fishing gear.
In fact, the company is renowned for making some of the world’s toughest and strongest fishing rods, but we’ll get into all of that in a bit.
If you’re considering products from this manufacturer, this quick Ugly Stik review will highlight practical information that can help your buying decision.
Ugly Stik History
Before we get into the various fishing equipment, here’s a quick rundown of Ugly Stik history.
What started as William Shakespeare, Jr. Company back in 1897 has morphed over the years into a world-leading fishing tackle company known as Shakespeare, with Ugly Stik as a subsidiary.
In 1939, the company invented the Wondereel with a backlash brake that made the reel the most popular model to hit the market at that time.
The manufacturer introduced the Ugly Stik rod in 1976 when it created the first fishing rod with the revolutionary clear tip design using the patented Howald Process construction.
This makes the rod virtually indestructible, meaning it can bend double without breaking.
In 2007, Shakespeare joined forces with Pure Fishing to form the largest tackle company in the world.
While its rods, reels, and other fishing gear can compete favorably with options from other brands, affordability is a huge plus for Ugly Stik.
The manufacturer offers top-of-the-line fishing tackle at unbeatable prices points.
In addition to winning the ICAST 2011 Best Kids Tackle award, the manufacturer has launched several products specially created for female anglers.
To support women with special needs, Shakespeare also partners with the American Breast Cancer Foundation, where it gives back to society.
Ugly Stik has made it easy for many anglers to access high-quality rods, reels, combos, and other fishing gear without breaking the bank.
In this part of the Ugly Stik review, we’ll take a quick look at a few of the brand’s numerous products.
Ugly Stik Rods
#1 GX2 Spinning Rod
Constructed using a blend of fiberglass and graphite, the GX2 Spinning Rod is an ideal option for anglers looking for a rod that can withstand a great deal of abuse.
The rod is incredibly strong and, at the same time, sensitive. It comes with a flexible tip, but that doesn’t mean it won’t provide impressive distance when casting with heavy lures.
Features
- One-piece stainless steel guides
- Lightweight and durable EVA grips
- 7-year warranty
#2 Elite Salmon/Steelhead Spin
Specifically engineered to fish salmon and steelhead, this Elite rod comes with just the right length and action required for the species.
It is a much lighter rod than the GX2, thanks to the 35% more graphite composition, but that doesn’t take away from the toughness Ugly Stik rods are known for.
Features
- Reel seat with cushioned stainless steel hood
- Clear tip design for increased sensitivity
- Cork grip with etched logo
#3 Bigwater Stand Up Conventional Rod
Experienced anglers looking for premium casting rods may want to consider going with the Bigwater Stand Up Conventional Rod.
This is one of Ugly Stik’s high-end casting rods engineered with graphite and fiberglass to create a rugged yet sensitive rod. With this rod in hand, you are all set for the toughest fishing challenge.
Features
- Aluminum gimbal with cover
- PacBay roller guides and reel seat
- 7-year warranty
#4 Bigwater Spinning Rod
The Bigwater Spinning Rod is a go-to choice for anglers heading into a big game fishing challenge.
The dependable, tough, and very sensitive rod is paired with comfortable EVA grips and Fuji reel, giving it everything it needs to withstand any fishing condition.
Features
- Fuji reel seat
- Ugly Tuff guides
- Durable rubber gimbal
#5 Catfish Casting Rod
Specifically designed for fishing catfish, this casting rod can make fishing a lot of fun, especially when you’re battling a lively fish.
But don’t let the name fool you; there’s absolutely no reason you can’t land a big trout or muskie with this rod.
Features
- Medium heavy actions
- Clear tip design
- Durable stainless steel guides prevent inset pop-outs
If you are looking for more catfish fishing rod and reel options read our other article Best Catfish Rod And Reel Combo.
#6 Tiger Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
The Tiger Elite Rod is a fantastic pick for anglers who want a very versatile spinning rod.
You can use this in a variety of fishing conditions and works great for catching a wide range of species, whether you are targeting catfish or trying to land a tuna.
Designed to give anglers a huge advantage, the rod comes with Ugly Tuff guides that are resistant to corrosion.
Features
- Fighting-length EVA grips with rubber gimbal
- Long-lasting, corrosion-resistant guides
- Reel seat with cushion hood
#7 Tiger Elite Jig
Here’s another option in the Tiger series but this Elite model is specially designed for anglers who prefer jigging and bottom fishing.
It offers incredible sensitivity, so even the slightest nibbles on your jig won’t go unnoticed. The Elite Jig features higher graphite content, making it a lightweight casting rod.
Features
- Excellent flexibility
- Durable one-piece stainless steel guides
- EVA handles with diamond shrink tube to minimize fatigue
Ugly Stik Reels
#1 Ugly Tuff Spinning Reel
Designed to stand up to the toughest of fights, this spinning reel is a must-have for anglers who want to target the most stubborn species like large bass.
The aluminum reel features a graphite rotor and a 5-ball bearing system.
Features
- Machined aluminum spool
- 5-ball bearing system
- Aluminum body
#2 Ugly Tuff Spincast Reel
The Ugly Tuff Spincast Reel is an even easier reel to use compared to traditional spinning reels.
With a frame made from high-quality aluminum, this model follows the Ugly Stik tradition of legendary toughness and dependability.
The reel comes pre-spooled and has the manufacturer’s 7-year warranty, so you can shop this product confidently.
Features
- Aluminum frame
- 3-ball bearing system
- Instant anti-reverse
Ugly Stik Combos
#1 Dock Runner Spinning Combo
The highly affordable Dock Runner is an ideal choice for beginner anglers as well as those who want a budget rod-reel combo.
It is small yet very effective, flexible, and sensitive. If you enjoy heading off into the beaten path, this lightweight model might be just what you need.
Features
- Pre-spooled with 6 lb line
- 36-inch rod and 30 size spinning reel
- Cork and EVA grip
#2 GX2 Ice Combo
When ice applications are a priority, the GX2 Ice Combo is an excellent choice. It’s built to suit fishing in a confined space, so the rod is shorter than standard options.
Features
- Designed to withstand the elements very well
- The reel has a smooth drag system
- The rod has a twist-lock reel seat with EVA handles
#3 Catfish Spinning Combo
Featuring the durable Ugly Stik GX2, this spinning combo is specially built to tackle catfish. The rod is very sensitive and strong.
Thanks to the lightness of the Catfish Spinning combo, you can fish all day without dealing with fatigue.
Features
- Pres-spooled with 14 lb line
- Lightweight EVA grips
- Comes with an assortment of fishing bait and tackle
#4 Carbon Spinning Combo
For a high-end combo, check out the Carbon Spinning Combo. It comes with a rod made from 100% graphite, making it the lightest rod in all of Ugly Stik’s collection.
The lightweight rod is very sensitive and offers crisp action, so it will pick up the slightest nibbles.
Features
- Fuji reel seat and split grips provide additional comfort and increased control
- 100% 24-ton graphite rod for a well-balanced and lightweight rod
- Durable guides work for all line types, including braid
Other Gear
In addition to a collection of fishing gear and equipment specially designed for women and children, Ugly Stik has quite a number of tools designed to support outdoor adventures.
A few of these include:
- Multi-tool: 4.5-inch closed tool length, providing 11 different functions, and featuring a storage sheath with belt loop.
- Marine shears: Featuring 420 stainless steel blades, fin snip, and scaler.
- Gut hook bait knife: Featuring a heavy-duty blade with gut hook tip, and robust non-slip handle.
- Fish skinner: Stainless steel spring-loaded jaws for one-hand operation, 36-inch coiled lanyard, and triggered reserve grip handle.
Conclusion
As you may have already figured out from this Ugly Stik review, the company is a leading name when it comes to fishing equipment.
While there are some other great manufacturers out there, Ugly Stik will give them a run for their money.
And talking of money, many of the fishing products from this brand are very affordable, making them the preferred choice for many anglers.
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