Like some other fishing topics, universal spinning constantly causes controversy and differing opinions from experts. Some fishermen believe that a spinning player’s arsenal should be narrowly focused - for each method, for example, jigs or wobblers, you need your own stick. However, most ordinary amateurs do not need several rods - they are looking for one universal one for all fishing conditions.
Spinning station wagon - myth or reality
The only accurate statement is that the best universal spinning rod does not exist. Versatility can also vary. One angler needs a spinning rod for twitching 130 wobblers and heavy jigs, another – for light wobblers, spoons, regular jigs, up to 30 grams. The third is a light version for microjig and small cranks. It all depends on the habits of the fisherman, the fishing conditions in the places in which he fishes.
Let’s not argue here which approach is better. For some, it is better to collect a collection of rods, each of which is designed for certain conditions. Others simply don’t need it - they need a universal spin for a certain number of fishing trips in the appropriate seasons, for example, for pike, pike perch in the fall, and at other times - just to play around, for fun. Both views have the right to life - there is no point in arguing.
You need to understand that the extremes in the sharpening of a particular rod for a particular bait provide great opportunities in the use of this particular method of fishing. Universal rods are like an average version. They cannot be super sensitive for jigging, and at the same time even better for twitching wobblers at the same time. But they allow you to use both baits when fishing with one universal stick, which is often quite enough for an ordinary fisherman, not an athlete.
To choose the right universal spinning rod, you first need not to look for a specific model, but to figure out what exactly you need for yourself. And then choose based on the required system, test, length, and other characteristics.
Detailed article about the types of spinning rods
Spinning test
The spinning test depends on the weight of the baits that will be used to catch pike. As a rule, the weight of spinners and spinners for pike fishing ranges from 8–9 to 25 grams, while there may be cases when it is necessary to use heavier or lighter baits, therefore, when choosing a spinning rod based on the test, it is necessary to specifically determine the weight of the spinners and spoons that will be used for pike fishing. In addition, it is necessary to take into account that some spinners have high drag, which also requires the use of a spinning rod with a large dough so that it does not bend so much when retrieving.
Manifestations of versatility in spinning fishing
The spinning station wagon can be different. Therefore, before looking for it, you need to clearly understand what it is for. Then you can start selecting a model based on the appropriate characteristics.
An ordinary universal spinning rod for a beginner or a person who just needs a pike stick for regular spinners and other lures weighing up to 330 grams is a standard rod of 2.1-2.7 meters with a test weight of 5-25, 10-30 grams. This is probably the most common model on the market. It will be Fast, or ExtraFast in terms of structure - a person usually chooses according to his own habits, based on tests in the store.
More advanced anglers buy more expensive poles with a progressive action. The moderate fast action under light loads (on casting, when twitching) works like a fast action, but when fishing, the entire form bends.
Nowadays, fiberglass rods are becoming less common on sale. Carbon fiber and graphite have become cheaper, even budget poles are made from carbon. It is more likely to find composite fishing rods, fiberglass with carbon fiber, in the budget segment. Such sticks are cheap, reliable, but heavy - they are suitable for a beginner in jigs and spinners, but it is almost impossible to work with wobblers with them, except perhaps on a straight line.
For the first steps in spinning for spinners or jigs, Chinese telescopic spinning rods for 300 rubles with a Kaido reel are suitable. But they won’t be able to catch effectively in difficult conditions.
On carbon rods, the grade of material is IM6, IM8, the higher, the newer and more expensive. However, higher carbon fiber is fragile and needs to be handled with care. For a station wagon, the IM5, IM6 brands are more suitable, no more (for the average amateur). There will be no need to blow away dust particles from such a rod and carefully monitor transportation.
Thus, if we are looking for universal gear, we consider among the usual plugs, two-piece, carbon IM 5-6. But we select the length, test, and tuning based on the required characteristics, depending on what for.
Jig, twitching, spinners
The simplest and most popular option is a universal spin for pike 10-30 grams or close to this range. Or lighter – up to 15 grams for lighter baits – whichever you prefer. Most simple spinning anglers, who don’t particularly bother with fishing, need gear for rare trips to a body of water to catch pike or perch, something like these universal rods. No theoretical problems with the test or structure. In addition to the usual turntables or oscillators, it is suitable for the basics of jigs, and for uniform or intermittent wiring of large cranks and medium minnows.
Rudra 130 mm
- For twitching the now popular 130 wobblers, which, with the proper skill, mow down pike, such a stick will not be suitable - it simply will not push these stubborn baits as needed during the jerk. For regular fishing, you can choose any suitable spinning rod from the nearest fishing store, but not for wobblers.
- If the angler’s claims to fishing and the capabilities of his gear are higher (read – you need twitching with a jig at the same time) – it’s worth diving deeper and studying the issues described below. Such spinning rods really exist, they are specially manufactured, positioned as universal.
- We will consider the expansion of versatility specifically in conjunction with jigging and twitching at the same time. It is these fishing methods that have mutually exclusive requirements for rods that are difficult to combine in one spinning rod. You can throw spinners with any rod.
- To twitch wobblers, roughly speaking, you need a short stake, up to 2 meters, fast or super-fast, with a fairly powerful tip, and a short, spaced handle. Otherwise, the rudra, rope, and other large wobblers will not be able to be presented correctly to the pike.
- For jigging, it is better to have a long rod with a thin elastic tip that acts when moving with a step. An ideal jig stick on a wobbler will fail; the long butt will be inconvenient to twitch. On a wobbler with a short, hard stick, the jig will not be felt at all.
- Let's add soft and hard twitching to this. If you can still pull the wobbler softly, you can’t pull it hard (with a jig stick). Plus the caliber ratio - with a heavy all-rounder for a Heavy jig it is impossible to throw far and feel small wobblers, and with a light one you cannot pull through stubborn large ones.
Build, test, length
Thus, a universal spinning rod for jigs and wobblers can be of different calibers:
- Heavy - for 130 wobblers, jigs from 14 grams, and better - 18 g and above.
- Medium – wobblers 70-100 mm, jig 8-16 grams.
- Light or ultralight - for small wobblers and microjigs, with a tubular tip.
In ultralight, fast-action spinning rods with a tubular tip - a regular hollow one, made of the same material as the whole rod - are suitable. Solid tops made of glued soft fiberglass will not allow working with wobblers.
Thus, when looking for a universal fishing rod, you need to choose approximately one of the calibers and tune in to it. If twitching 130s is more important, we take up to 35 grams, it will allow you to fish with jigs and medium wobblers. However, a light jig for such a test of 12-15 grams will not knock on the hand - only visually, on the fishing line. And medium wobblers will not be sensitively felt, and with strong jerks they can twist. But you can adapt to this.
The medium caliber (15-20 grams of the upper test) is more convenient for jigging, it taps sensitively in the hand on medium scales, it works normally with 70-90 wobblers, but with 110, 130 - only soft twitch. Stubborn baits, like rudra, may not be pulled through at all.
In all these combinations, the most critical are the universal characteristics related to wobblers. If it’s too rough for the jig, it’s okay, you can adapt to detect the action of the bait or the bite according to the sag of the cord. However, if it’s too soft for a wobbler, nothing can be done, you’ll have to look for another rod.
Summarizing all of the above, we conclude that a universal rod should be of medium length, 2.1-2.4 meters, fast action, prickly, but not quite like pure twitching sticks. We select the test depending on the required caliber of bait.
In our conditions, when the main object is pike, which means you need to work with large wobblers, you need a fast, prickly rod of 2.1-2.4 m with a weight of up to 30-35 grams. It will also allow you to fish with jigs from 14 grams, spinners, and medium wobblers. You can also throw them small wobblers weighing 8-10 grams, but not far. We prefer wobblers – then 2.1 m, the test is higher. If the jig is 2.4 meters, the test is smaller. The longer, the softer - the better for soft twitching, not hard, but better for sensitivity in jigs.
Bombarda, donka, float
The universal spin can also be considered in terms of its use in completely different directions - with a bombard, or as a float rod, donkey. However, such areas of application are more likely not from spinning rods at all, but with their own criteria for the characteristics of the rod. In principle, on the universal we have selected for jigs and wobblers, you can put a bombard or bottom equipment, if necessary, and fish.
Article about fishing with a spinning rod and a bombard
Spinning for spinners
The spinner is considered one of the oldest and most common artificial baits. It is present in the kit of any spinning player, regardless of his passion for fishing and knowledge in the field of spinning. Some fishermen devote a special place to their passion for this bait, while others use it only occasionally.
Their lineup is quite large. It contains both small, light spinners and large, heavier ones. Based on these characteristics of the bait, all other equipment, including the fishing rod, is selected.
One of the main parameters of fishing rods is length. If we talk about spinning rods for fishing with spinners, there are several general rules. One of them states that to increase the length of casts, you should choose the longest models - from 2.4 m to 2.7 m. If fishing from a boat, a two-meter one is enough. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. What is an axiom for fishing in a large river may not be suitable for a small river. How, for example, to use a long spinning rod when fishing in a small river. He either clings to the bushes or to the branches of trees that descend almost to the water. And so you can be left without a rod tip. It turns out that the throwing distance does not always depend on the length of the tackle. But it is better to maneuver between algae, snags and other obstacles with a long spinning rod. Even from a boat.
Another parameter that you should pay attention to when choosing a spinning rod for spinners is the structure of the rod. All models come in fast, medium-fast and slow. When using spinners, it is preferable to use spinning rods of the last two types. With their help, you can make effective casts even in very cramped conditions. Even from a boat. Fast models in this case cope with this task better than others.
Hard helps to free yourself from snags faster. It is practically not damaged either by sudden jerks or when pulling the bait through thickets of algae. The restraining properties of the spinning rod also play an important role here, otherwise the hooked fish may go under snags or under stones, and then a “big hello” will be given not only to the catch, but also to the lure. In order to protect yourself from such turns of events, it is recommended to pay attention to the geometry of the form. Rods equipped with a powerful butt can cope with this task better than others.
Now regarding sensitivity. When fishing for a spinner, you should not pay special attention to it. It will be enough to feel the moment the spinner blade turns on or the moment it touches underwater obstacles along the way.
Budget universal spinning rod
Next, we will consider specific models of universal spinning rods for beginners and experienced fishermen who want to equip one comfortable tackle in the realities of our country, mostly for pike, pike perch or large perch. By the word budget we don’t mean cheap, low-quality consumer goods, but a really decent level, let’s say, the minimum of good ones, which will allow you to comfortably fish normally at full speed.
Of course, these are, first of all, Chinese spinning rods. The time when China was spat on is over. In addition, most fishing rods are now made in China, but under the brands of cool companies. At the same time, there is nothing special in the design - an additional payment goes for the brand. Only a small portion of the most expensive models are made in Japan, the USA or Europe. The overwhelming majority are made in the Middle Kingdom to order, then sent to the company, where the name and packaging are attached to the finished form - and to the store.
No matter how trivial it sounds, the cheapest place to find a normal spinning rod without paying extra for the brand is in China, that is, with Aliexpress. For 1500-2000 rubles you can find the same quality as in fishing stores for 4000-5000. There are a lot of consumer goods on Ali - so you need to search wisely. I have already described this process in the article: how to look for catchy wobblers on aliexpress
The system is the same with spinning rods, but you also need to consider the issue of good packaging upon delivery, since the product is relatively fragile. Next, let's look at the spinning rods that I use with my own hands - and am very pleased with. There are many more worthy rods from Ali - I will describe them in more detail in another article. Let’s take a closer look at the models that fit well into the concept of universal spinning rod.
Read more: good Chinese spinning rods from aliexpress
Jonco spinning rods
In my personal top of universal spinning rods, the first place is occupied by the Johncoo Sword model. The workmanship is better than some of the more expensive spinning rods from our stores. The blank itself is reliable, this season I used it to catch a pike at 7400. A short spaced handle made of Eva, a reliable reel seat, a hook ring, and an anti-twist tulip on each tip. Delivery is fast (from Moscow), free, packaging - in a bubble wrap and a tight tube.
For 1500-2000 rubles we get two spinning rods in one - two tips included. M – with test 7-25, MN – 10-35. I often fish with a light tip, a jig from 14 grams feels better, 130 wobblers pull normally and throw far. I also tried a powerful one - a real stake, the rudra twitches only on the way, but for a jig - it’s too wooden.
Of all the budget all-rounder spinning rods that I have owned, this one is a workhorse plus the best price-quality ratio. Cheap and reliable, you’re not afraid to break it when playing – but it doesn’t break. A similar model is Booster, more expensive, 2500 rubles, with the same characteristics. More beautiful inserts and outer braiding have been added - that is, theoretically it is even stronger. There is both a regular universal spinning version for a spinning reel, and a casting version with a trigger for a multiplier reel.
For heavy jigs, the Gladiator test from the same store is suitable. Naturally, with such characteristics, it will also carry 130. This model is more for deep rivers with a current, for pike perch, channel pike.
Links to the official store (tested more than once, it works):
Jonko Sword: 7-25, 10-35: https://ali.pub/42otlq
Jonko Booster: https://ali.pub/42ovsa
Jonko Gladiator 10-35, 15-40: https://ali.pub/42ow81
Doyu spinning rods
A normal, cheap, universal spinning rod for beginners can also be found in the JinTai store. This is the same factory that used to flood our fishing stores with cheap Doyu telescopes. Now Doyu is no longer the same - for the better. Jintai Doyu has made money over the past two decades and now makes high-quality rods at a fraction of the price - China has decided to seriously push the Japanese out of the market. For 1500 you can actually find a spinning rod, the same as the Japanese for 3-4 thousand.
The simplest popular Fast-ExtraFast station wagon is the Black Dragon model. Test 5-25, same as Jonko Sword with an easy tip. For general purposes, the fast Perfect Carbon is also suitable.
Official Jin Tai store.
Doyu Black Dragon 7-35 gr: https://ali.pub/42ox7t
PERFECT CARBON 10-30 g: https://ali.pub/42owpx
I’m more impressed, of course, by Jonko – it feels stronger and works better with wobblers. The set includes two tops for the same price, the look is more beautiful, there is a casting option, and, most importantly, delivery in a tube. Doyu's packaging is simply in a box, tightly wrapped in bubble wrap. Both companies are being sold out in Russia. Therefore, spinning rods have already been delivered to us, and delivery takes a few days from Moscow. Here the Chinese are great, they helped with the logistics, the product is worthy.
Jonco Packaging
JinTai-Doyu Packaging
Budget station wagons in fishing stores
We will not make ratings of the best universal spinning rods - each sandpiper praises its own swamp. We list the common models that fit the concept of a station wagon and are suitable for working with wobblers, jigs and spinners. All this is the same as Gintai or Jonko, or worse, only branded, so it costs 1.5-3 times more.
- Pontoon 21 Gad spinning rods – models Harrier (3500-5500 rubles), Booch (4000 rubles), Delta (2800-4300), Fair (2100-3200);
- Maximus Zircon (2000-3200), Work Horse-X (2400-3200);
- Flagman BlackFire (2000-3000);
- Volzhanka Sprut (3300-4600), Stalker (2500-3500);
- Allvega Strike (1700-2500);
- Salmo Kraft Jig and Twitch (3500 RUR).
Expensive
Experienced gurus don't need advice - they can give it themselves. At this level, they usually take not a station wagon, but a specialized spinning rod for specific purposes. However, even among the top ones you can choose a universal fishing rod. The following can be considered:
- St. Croix Legend Elite LES70MF2 for 25,000 rubles or Avid 2.44, up to 28 or 38 grams (19 thousand);
- Talon Delta (18000-20000);
- Major Craft Rizer (up to 15000);
- Norstream Spiker (about 10,000);
- Ayashi Rexzus (8000 RUR)
- Maximus Ultimatum (8600).
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Rating of the best spinning rods for twitching
The following list of top spinning rods for twitching will help the spinning angler acquire a reliable and practical tool for twitching fishing, where we will offer our version of the highest quality equipment from world-famous brands that have proven themselves in the fishing industry.
Shimano Lesath CX Spinning 210M
The first line of the top 10 is the universal tool Shimano Lesath CX Spinning 210M. This model can be safely described as a stick for any conditions of twitching wiring. A lightweight carbon blank and high-quality fittings ensure comfortable and long-lasting fishing, and a wide test range from 5 to 20 grams makes it possible to use most promising models of wobblers of various sizes.
Kosadaka Orange Twiching Point
Second place went to the Japanese Kosadaka Orange Twiching Point. The length of 2.1 meters and the test of 3–17 grams give grounds to include the tackle in the category of universal ones. The tackle, balanced in terms of the weight of the handle and blank, does not load the hand at all, even during many hours of hunting in an active rhythm of tracking. The spinner is also pleased with the price factor, which in terms of price-quality ratio is at a high level. Budget model.
Favorite Synapse Twiching BFS SYSBF-702ML
Favorite Synapse Twiching BFS SYSBF-702ML is confidently one of the three most practical twitching gear. The model is not a cheap product, but the investment in the tool is worth it. After all, the small weight of the fishing rod, just one hundred grams, and almost eternal titanium rings guarantee flawless and comfortable operation of the spinning rod for a long time. The ultra-fast tackle belongs to the light class of tests with the weight range of the used simulators being 5–14 grams.
Salmo Elite X-Twitch 180
In fourth place is the popular spinning rod from Salmo, model Elite X-Twitch 180. The fast action of the short 1.8-meter blank allows you to make sharp and accurate casts. The manufacturer positions the model as a rod for fishing from a boat, but this light tackle will be suitable for coastal hunting at short distances for perch and medium-sized pike. The model is one of the best budget spinning rods for twitching.
Norstream Rebel 662ML
The top five is rounded out by the time-tested spinning rod Norstream Rebel 662ML. The medium action of the blank is suitable for working with large wobblers, the animation of which with this stick will be within the capabilities of not only an experienced spinning player, but also an angler beginning to get acquainted with this type of hunting. The tool, even with this type of action, shows the results of high-quality control of the game of the driven bait.
Zemex Bass Addiction S-702M
Number six is for the Zemex Bass Addiction S-702M miniature model. The tackle is designed to work with small and medium types of wobblers. A biting and rigid blank requires the spinner to adjust to the rod, and only experienced professionals will appreciate the high potential of the stick from the first cast. The cost of the tool is in the middle segment of the price level.
Black Hole Bass Mania EVA S-702M
Seventh place goes to Black Hole Bass Mania EVA S-702M. Light fast action tackle is ideally suited for jerking movements. Scrupulous control of the wobbler's movement constantly brings in large pike in catches without fear for the reliability of the form. The spinning rod is equipped with high-quality rings and an ergonomic handle. The price is in the middle range.
Maximus Manic 20ML
We give the universal Maximus Manic 20ML the eighth rating number. The spinning rod is suitable not only for twitch, but also copes with jig wiring. Having an extra-fast action and a high test level of up to 25 grams, this stick can be used for fishing with both wobblers and walkers and jerkbaits, which incredibly increases the chances of catching a trophy of decent size. A budget option.
Major Craft Rizer 832MH
Major Craft Rizer 832MH is a powerful tool for working with large wobblers on long casts. The ninth line was awarded for perfect balance with a relatively large rod size for a twitch. Therefore, despite the weight of two hundred grams and a two and a half meter length, the tackle is comfortable to work with, and the wiring turns out realistic with feedback on the animation of pike, zander and perch. The cost is low and the stick is recommended for a novice fisherman to master the twitch technique.
