HookedinFishing » Wacky Rig » Best Wacky Rig Rods

Best Wacky Rig Rods & Reels

The wacky rig is one of the best bass producing techniques out there. It rarely doesn’t work. Because of this it is one of the most popular fishing techniques. There are many anglers who almost throw it exclusively.

Below you will find our tried and true recommendations for wacky rig rods & reels for any budget.

Hooked In Fishing is supported by its audience. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more

Best Wacky Rig Rods for Every Budget

06/06/2023 11:13 pm GMT Lasso Brag

Best Wacky Rig Reels for Every Budget

06/06/2023 11:25 pm GMT Lasso Brag

Best Wacky Rig Combos

Best Overall

The G Loomis NRX+ 852S JWR is a 7’1″ medium action spinning rod that was designed to fish worms. It is the perfect balance of weight, sensitivity and strength.

G. Loomis NRX+ 852S JWR
  • Length - 7'1"
  • Power - Medium
  • Action - Extra Fast
  • Line Weight - 6-12lb
  • Lure Weight - 1/8 - 3/8oz
  • Guides - 9 + Tip
  • Handle Length - 14 1/2"
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Pair your rod with the Shimano Twin Power 2500 FD reel for the perfect performance. You will notice a large improvement in performance and comfort compared to value options.

Shimano Twin Power 2500 FD
  • Gear Ratio - 5.3:1
  • Weight - 7.4 oz
  • Bearings - 9S A-RB + 1S A-RB
  • Line Capacity - 6/200, 8/140
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Value

The Shimano Expride is a 7′ medium action spinning rod that makes a great wacky rig rod at a great price. It has a great balance of sensitivity and responsiveness.

Shimano Expride B 7' Med
  • Length - 7'
  • Power - Medium
  • Action - Fast
  • Line Weight - 5-10lb
  • Lure Weight - 3/16 - 1/2oz
  • Guides - 8 + Tip
  • Handle Length - 13-3/4"
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Pair your rod with the Shimano Vanford 3000 reel for great performance. You will notice an improvement in performance compared to budget options.

Shimano Vanford 3000
  • Gear Ratio - 6.4:1
  • Weight - 6.3 oz
  • Bearings - 7BB + 1RB
  • Line Capacity - 8/170, 10/140
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Budget

The St. Croix Bass X is a 7’2″ medium-heavy action baitcasting rod that can throw worms very well. It is the good balance performance without breaking the bank.

St. Croix Bass X 7’2″ Med Hvy
  • Length - 7'2"
  • Power - Medium-Heavy
  • Action - Moderate
  • Line Weight - 12-20lb
  • Lure Weight - 3/8 - 1oz
  • Guides - 7 + Tip
  • Handle Length - 14-5/8"
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Pair your rod with the Shimano SLX 150 HG reel for the good performance.

Shimano SLX 150 HG
  • Gear Ratio - 7.2:1
  • Weight - 6.9 oz
  • Bearings - 3BB + 1RB
  • Line Capacity - 12/110, 14/90
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

What Makes a Good Wacky Rig Rod?

The ideal wacky rig rod is around 7′ long with medium to medium-heavy action. The 7′ length will give you a good balance of casting distance and accuracy to help you get your bait to where you want it.

Medium action is better for open water or light cover. If you fish heavy cover often you may want to bump up to a medium-heavy baitcaster.

Gear Up for Wacky Rig Fishing