With constant upgrades and additional items, professional anglers can expect to spend a lot of money on their fishing gear.
Beginners, on the other hand, can make do with more affordable equipment. Still, this does not mean that you should compromise on quality.
This Ugly Stik GX2 review proves that you can get a reliable fishing rod without having to spend a fortune.
Ugly Stik GX2 Review
Regardless if you’re a newbie or an experienced angler, you have probably come across Ugly Stik before.
Since 1897, this brand has been known for its affordable and quality fishing equipment that makes fishing enjoyable for everybody.
The first Ugly Stik rod came out in 1976, featuring the Howald Process design. It’s a combination of fiberglass and graphite, creating a durable and sensitive rod.
After almost four decades, the brand decided to release a newer version in 2013. This Ugly Stik GX2 review is our way of introducing you to one of its latest products.
Just like its predecessor, the GX2 offers the same quality but with additional upgrades that will excite all types of anglers.
Who Is This Product For?
The Ugly Stik GX2 is for every angler. It has different variations to suit various needs and requirements.
The manufacturer, Shakespeare, thought of every possible option from casting, spinning, and even a variety-specific for ladies.
This GX2 model is the best choice for anglers looking for good-quality but affordable gear to use in all water conditions and settings.
It’s also suitable as a starter pack for beginners who are just learning the sport. Similarly, professional anglers will also benefit from using the GX2.
Lure fishers may choose a graphite-made rod variety and attach a jig or plug to copy the target’s movements.
On the other hand, bait anglers can choose the more slack and sensitive kind to feel each target’s strike.
What’s Included?
The Ugly Stik GX2 spinning combo comprises the latest GX2 fishing rod and a complimentary spinning reel.
Overview of the Features
This second generation of the Ugly Stik fishing rod has the strength and durability of its predecessor.
From its eye-catching features, you will notice that it has a more modern look than the older model.
The new design is made possible through the brand’s modern construction process called Ugly Tech.
The new rod blank has a matte black finish with a red and silver winding pattern highlight above the grip.
It’s the combined fiberglass and graphite materials that give it better balance, durability, and sensitivity. The rod comes in a variety of lengths and rod power, too.
One of the most notable changes in the GX2 is the new Ugly Tuff guides replacing the old ones.
They are made from a single piece of stamped stainless steel, making it more durable than before.
The Ugly Stik Clear Tip made from solid fiberglass provides the sensitivity to feel the tiniest of bites. It also offers the durability to handle a large catch.
Moreover, it has an EVA-made durable grip that feels comfortable even if used for an extended period.
The reel comes with three-ball bearings and an additional one for instant anti-reverse. In turn, you get a smoother gear feel.
Other reel sizes, like the 40 and 50, only have two ball bearings with an added instant anti-reverse.
It has an aluminum spool machine-anodized two times and is made durable by the fitted oversized bail wire.
Pros:
- Guaranteed to last a long time
- Can be used in a variety of fishing conditions
- Has just the right level of sensitivity
- Comes with a flexible tip
- Designed for left- and right-handed anglers
Cons:
- A bit heavy
- Un-aligned guides
How to Get the Most Out of It
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on your fishing gear but still prefer a long-lasting one, Shakespeare’s Ugly Stik GX2 is worth considering.
Try choosing between the six-and-a-half and seven-foot single-piece rod, as it’s one of the most versatile among other versions.
The seven-year warranty coverage is beneficial in case you encounter issues with your equipment.
To make use of this warranty, you simply need to submit a picture of the damaged gear as evidence, attach the receipt, and pay shipping coverage of $10.
Reading Ugly Stick GX2 reviews might not be enough to determine if this is the right choice for you. Check out this video to see it in action.
Alternatives
Even after reading through several Ugly Stik GX2 reviews, you may still want to look at other options.
To help you with that, we looked for some alternatives that are also worth considering.
Daiwa D-Shock Spinning Combo
The Daiwa D-Shock Spinning Combo is an inexpensive spinning set that will be perfect for beginners and those on a budget.
You can use it in light to medium freshwater inlets with its pre-spooled monofilament line suitable for lure or bait fishing techniques.
Since the set comes with a spooled fishing line, all you need to go fishing is a lure or a bait.
This lightweight combo set comes with a two-piece fiberglass blank with aluminum oxide guides. What’s more, the reel has a graphite body with cork grips for comfortability.
The spinning combo is not high-quality, but it does the job for its price-point, especially for kids and those new to the sport.
Still, since it’s a two-piece rod, the two parts’ joining point might sometimes loosen, sliding the top part of the rod out.
Plussino Red Eagle
Another spinning combo set worth checking out is the Plussino Red Eagle. Though, this elegant-looking rod and reel combo does not come with a pre-spooled line.
All fishing rod blanks from the Red Eagle Select series are built using three layers of the carbon fiber IM6 Carbon Matrix. This ensures better performance, power, and sensitivity.
You will also find that it has a non-slip handle made from cork and EVA materials, allowing you to use it for extended periods.
The guides made from stainless steel have ceramic inserts for smoother power. They reduce friction as they prevent the lines from sticking.
In turn, it quickly transfers sensations from the gear to your hand, informing you of something happening underwater.
The anti-winding tip feature of the Plussino prevents the twisting of your fishing line so that you can enjoy fishing without any hassle.
Its durable plastic reel seat comes with a double locking feature that’s easy to use even for kids. The reel stays in place through its cushioned hoop.
The issue with this is that it has a higher price-point than others. There were also instances of the rod or tip breaking on the first cast.
Sougaliyang Telescopic Rod and Reel Combo
Another suitable alternative for the GX2 is the Sougaliyang Telescopic Rod and Reel Combo.
This powerful and flexible telescopic rod is made from premium-grade carbon fiber, which is then made even more durable with fiberglass composite.
You’ll love the welded stainless steel guides, too, which are compatible with all kinds of fishing lines.
This set has Zirconium Oxide rings, providing accuracy and castability.
It also has an exquisite reel seat made from CNC-machined corrosion-resistant aluminum, ensuring that it will last long.
This smooth fishing reel has an ambidextrous handle.
It also boasts 13+1 smooth ball bearings that are all corrosion-resistant, a driver gear made of zinc alloy, and an extensive line capacity aluminum spool.
The Sougaliyang telescopic rod and reel combo come in various sizes and colors.
Since it has a telescopic rod, you can easily store it anywhere or bring it along with you on your fishing expeditions.
However, some users have complained that the rod breaks when used for large fish.
Also, the reel won’t stay tight on its seat, adding to the challenge of securing a catch.
FAQs
1. Is the Ugly Stik GX2 a good rod?
This Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 review aims to prove why this product is considered one of the best rods around.
Ugly Stik prides itself in manufacturing durable products. Both the original version and the upgraded edition are worthy of praise.
The upgraded guides are one of the best and most stable features of the GX2.
The use of fiberglass and graphite in its construction gives it durability, which is part of its awesomeness.
Also, the Ugly Stik GX2 offers a variety of actions and lengths to choose from to accommodate your fishing needs.
It’s one affordable product that promises to perform its job at any given time.
2. Are Ugly Sticks unbreakable?
Looking at some Ugly Stick GX2 reviews, you will notice one common observation.
Most anglers say that the rod is very durable. It usually bends to the pressure but does not break easily.
In that case, you can trust that Ugly Sticks are built to withstand any fishing demands required.
3. Are Ugly Sticks guaranteed for life?
You will find many Ugly Stik GX2 reviews that say this is the only brand that offers a seven-year warranty on its rods.
The manufacturer does not offer a lifetime guarantee. Still, seven years is a long time compared to other warranty periods from other manufacturers.
Anyone who purchases this product must remember to keep the receipt intact, though. It is one of the needed requirements to use the warranty.
Conclusion
This Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 review provides that this combo is perfect for both novice and pro anglers.
You can choose any variation from the GX2 series to suit the type of angler you are and wish to be.
There’s no doubt that the brand has proven its consistency and reliability when it comes to durability and performance.
What’s even more impressive is that it comes at a much lower price. Other brands that offer the same sturdiness and action are about two or three times more expensive.