South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Review

Let’s Dive into the South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

The South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a beginner-friendly setup designed to get you fishing without breaking the bank. South Bend is a recognizable name in the fishing world, often associated with affordable and accessible gear. This combo promises a complete package, pre-spooled and ready to cast, making it an attractive option for newcomers or those seeking a simple, no-fuss fishing experience.

I was looking for a reliable, entry-level combo to introduce my niece to fishing. She was intimidated by the more complex baitcasting reels, and I wanted something that would allow her to focus on the fun of fishing, not the mechanics of the gear.

My first impression was of a lightweight and compact package. The two-piece rod design makes it easy to transport, and the overall construction feels sturdy enough for light to medium fishing.

Compared to more expensive combos from Shimano or Daiwa, the South Bend lacks the refined feel and high-end components. However, compared to other budget combos I’ve seen, it seems to offer a better balance of features and price.

I was cautiously optimistic. While I wasn’t expecting a high-performance setup, I hoped it would be durable and easy to use, providing a positive introduction to the sport for my niece.

Real-World Testing: Putting South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

We tested the South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Combo at a local lake known for its panfish and stocked trout. The weather was mild, with a light breeze and sunny skies, ideal conditions for a leisurely fishing trip.

The combo performed reasonably well in these conditions. The spincast reel was simple to operate, allowing my niece to cast without any major tangles or frustrations.

The rod felt a bit whippy, but it was manageable, even for a beginner. We did notice some line twist after a few hours of use, likely due to the nature of spincast reels.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several fishing trips over a couple of months, the South Bend combo has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor scratches on the reel housing, but the rod blank shows no signs of damage.

The ceramic guides still seem smooth and haven’t developed any cracks or chips. I’ve been diligent about rinsing the combo with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion.

Compared to a more expensive spinning combo I own, the South Bend doesn’t offer the same level of sensitivity or casting distance. However, for its intended purpose as a beginner’s setup, it has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Specifications

• The rod is 5′ 6″ in length, making it suitable for smaller anglers or fishing in tight spaces. This length provides a good balance of casting distance and maneuverability.
• It’s a two-piece rod, which makes it easier to transport and store. The two-piece design doesn’t seem to compromise the rod’s strength or action.
• The rod blank is made of fiberglass, a durable and forgiving material. Fiberglass is less sensitive than graphite but can withstand more abuse, making it ideal for beginners.
• The reel is a South Bend SBP20 spincast model, featuring a ball bearing drive. The ball bearing should provide smoother operation compared to bushing-based reels.
• The reel has an adjustable dial drag system. This allows you to fine-tune the resistance on the line when fighting a fish.
• The combo comes pre-spooled with monofilament line. This is convenient for beginners, as it eliminates the need to spool the reel themselves.
• The rod features ceramic guides. Ceramic guides help reduce friction on the line during casts and retrieves.
• The handle is made of EVA foam. EVA foam is comfortable to grip and provides good traction, even when wet.

Performance & Functionality

The South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Combo performs adequately for its intended purpose as a beginner’s fishing setup. The spincast reel is easy to learn and use, minimizing frustration for new anglers.

The rod has a moderate action, which provides enough sensitivity to detect bites while still being forgiving enough for casting errors. One weakness is the line twist associated with spincast reels which requires the line to be replaced more often.

Overall, the combo meets expectations for an entry-level product, providing a functional and accessible fishing experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The South Bend combo has a simple and functional design. The fiberglass rod is lightweight and balanced, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.

The EVA foam handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. There is a slight learning curve with the spincast reel.

Durability & Maintenance

The fiberglass rod blank is durable and can withstand some abuse. The reel housing is made of plastic, so it may be prone to scratches and cracks if not handled carefully.

The combo is easy to maintain. Simply rinse it with fresh water after each use and lubricate the reel occasionally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Combo comes as a complete package with no additional accessories included. Customization options are limited due to the non-standard design of the spincast reel.

The rod’s guides could be upgraded. Aftermarket reel handles would provide more personalized performance.

Pros and Cons of South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Who Should Buy South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo?

This combo is perfect for beginner anglers, especially children, who are just learning to fish. It’s also a good option for casual anglers who want a simple and affordable setup for occasional fishing trips.

Those seeking high-performance gear or fishing for larger species should skip this product. They would benefit more from a higher-end spinning or baitcasting combo.

Essential accessories include a tackle box with basic lures, hooks, and bobbers, as well as a pair of fishing pliers for removing hooks.

Conclusion on South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

The South Bend 5’6in Proton Spincast Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a decent entry-level option that provides good value for the price. It offers an accessible and user-friendly fishing experience for beginners.

The price is justified, considering the complete package and ease of use. It allows newcomers to start fishing immediately.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and simple way to get into fishing. This combo is a great starting point to discover the joy of angling!