When I was a kid, my grandfather had an Ugly Stik rod and PENN reel. But the old man wouldn’t recognize the latest rods and reels from these two iconic brands.
The Best New PENN & Ugly Stik Gear for 2025
PENN Battle IV Spinning Reels
Buy from:
AMAZON BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S TACKLE DIRECT
For 2024, PENN redesigned the Battle spinning reels with improved corrosion resistance including waterproof seals at the handle, dust cap and spool to completely prevent water intrusion. The spool is also redesigned to keep water out of the internal workings. A redesigned full metal body further prevents corrosion and looks cool.
The new Battle still includes my favorite features like the carbon fiber drag, CNC gears and stainless steel sealed ball bearings. To encourage anglers to shop at their local tackle shop, PENN is offering a DX model with CNC gears in all models and a cool silver and blue finish at the same price as the standard black Battle IV. This DX will only be available at brick-and-mortar retailers.
With premium features packed in a good-looking reel, PENN managed to keep the price for a 2500 size below $130 and the giant 8000 only costs $179.
Ugly Stik GX2 Rod
Buy from:
PURE FISHING AMAZON BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S CANADIAN TIRE TACKLE DIRECT WALMART
One look at the clear tip and the red and gold cross pattern wrap and I know I’m holding an iconic unbreakable Ugly Stik GX2 rod. But a closer look reveals an improved reel seat, tough and comfortable EVA grips and updated line guides to improve the durability and performance of the legendary Ugly Stik rod.
When I received a new GX2 rod and reel combo for testing and review, I was immediately impressed with the construction and looks. The Ugly Stik reel is smooth with an aluminum spool shaved and ported to save rotating weight. With a price under $50, the updated GX2 rod is a great bargain that will last a lifetime.
Feature photo: Kayak Angler Staff
