Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo Review

First Impressions of Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo presents itself as an accessible entry point into the world of fishing. Marketed towards beginners and those looking for an affordable, ready-to-go setup, it promises performance without breaking the bank. The Lew’s brand, known for its commitment to providing quality fishing gear, further adds to its appeal.

I was searching for a reliable backup combo to keep in my truck for impromptu fishing trips. Something that wouldn’t cost a fortune but could still handle the occasional bass or panfish. After reading about the American Hero program, which supports veterans and their families, I felt even better about potentially purchasing this combo.

Unboxing the Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo, I immediately noticed the lightweight construction. The graphite components felt sturdy enough, though clearly not on par with higher-end graphite rods. The reel was pre-spooled, which is a nice touch for beginners.

Compared to my Shimano Sienna combo, which is my go-to for finesse presentations, the Lew’s feels a bit less refined but more robust. It’s a different animal altogether when compared to my St. Croix Avid series rods, but considering the price difference, that’s expected. I chose this combo over a similar offering from Shakespeare because of the Lew’s reputation for smooth reels and the overall build quality appeared superior in online photos and videos.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It won’t replace my high-end gear, but the Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo seemed capable and convenient for its intended purpose as a backup or beginner setup.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo took place at a local freshwater lake known for its decent population of bass and crappie. I targeted both species, using a variety of lures ranging from small crankbaits to Texas-rigged worms. The weather was calm with clear skies.

The combo performed surprisingly well for its price point. Casting was smooth and relatively accurate, although the rod’s sensitivity wasn’t exceptional. I was able to detect subtle strikes from crappie using the pre-spooled 6-pound monofilament.

There were no major issues during the initial outing. The reel operated smoothly, and the drag performed adequately when I hooked into a feisty two-pound bass. I was surprised at how little backlashes I encountered using the supplied line, even in a moderate breeze.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo on various fishing trips, I have a better understanding of its long-term performance. The rod and reel have held up reasonably well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The finish is fairly durable, resisting scratches and dings from typical use.

The reel requires minimal maintenance. A quick rinse with freshwater after each use and occasional lubrication is all it needs to stay in good working order. Compared to some of my more expensive combos, the Lew’s is definitely easier to maintain due to its simpler construction.

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo has exceeded my expectations for a budget-friendly option. It may not have the finesse of higher-end setups, but its reliability and ease of use make it a solid choice for beginners or as a dependable backup.

Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo

Specifications

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo is designed for freshwater fishing and includes the following key specifications:

• Rod Length: 6 feet
• Number of Sections: 2 Pieces, for easy transport and storage.
• Rod Power: Medium, offering a good balance of strength and sensitivity.
• Rod Action: Fast, allowing for quick hooksets.
• Line Weight: 4-12 lbs, providing versatility for different species and fishing techniques.
• Lure Weight: 1/8-1/2 oz, suitable for a wide range of popular lures.
• Reel Size: 2000, a common size for light to medium freshwater fishing.
• Gear Ratio: 5.1:1, providing a balanced retrieve speed.
• Bearing Count: 2+1, offering smooth operation.
• Mono Capacity: 150 yds/8 lbs, ample line capacity for most freshwater scenarios.
• Recovery: 23 inches per turn, defines how much line is retrieved with each full rotation of the handle.

These specifications contribute to the combo’s overall performance and versatility. The medium power and fast action rod offer a good compromise between casting distance, sensitivity, and the ability to handle larger fish. The 2000 size reel provides adequate line capacity and a smooth retrieve.

Performance & Functionality

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo performs admirably within its intended range. Casting is smooth and accurate, thanks to the balanced rod and reel. The reel’s drag system is surprisingly effective for a budget-friendly model, providing consistent pressure and preventing line breaks when fighting fish.

The rod’s sensitivity is adequate for detecting strikes, although it lacks the finesse of higher-end graphite rods. A significant strength is its ease of use. The combo is ready to fish right out of the box, making it perfect for beginners.

While the combo excels in ease of use and reliability, its limitations include a lack of sensitivity compared to higher-end rods and a somewhat basic reel construction. It perfectly meets expectations as an affordable and reliable entry-level fishing setup.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo features a simple yet functional design. The rod is constructed from IM6 graphite, which provides a good balance of weight and sensitivity. The EVA split grips are comfortable to hold, even during extended fishing sessions.

The reel is lightweight and easy to handle. The ambidextrous design accommodates both right- and left-handed anglers. The user-friendly design makes it suitable for anglers of all skill levels, even beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo is built to withstand typical freshwater fishing conditions. The graphite rod is reasonably durable and resistant to breakage, and the reel’s metal gears provide added longevity. With proper care, this combo should last for several seasons of regular use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use and occasional lubrication of the reel’s moving parts. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for anglers who prefer low-maintenance gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo comes pre-spooled with 6-pound monofilament line, allowing anglers to start fishing immediately. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, anglers can easily upgrade the line to their preferred type and test.

The rod is compatible with a wide range of spinning reels, allowing anglers to experiment with different models as their skills progress. The stainless steel guide frames and stainless steel inserts provide excellent line management and are compatible with various types of fishing line.

Pros and Cons of Lew’s American Hero WE GO 2 Speed Spin Combo