Buying guides for put and take

Here we gather the buying guides for put and take. The aim is simple: help you choose the right tackle for rainbow trout and brown trout, not the dearest. We go through what to look for, so you can buy with confidence whatever your budget and brand.

Guides right now

Rod and reel are where most people start: best fly rod for beginners, best spinning rod for rainbow trout, best fly reel and best spinning reel. If you want everything at once, see the best starter kit.

For baits and extras there are best PowerBait, best waders, best polarised glasses and, for winter fishing, the best ice rod. More guides are added as we go.

How we think

Three principles steer the advice. We always start from the right size class, because stocked fish are usually 0.5–2 kg and the tackle should match that, not pike or the coast. We put the money on what actually makes a difference, such as a working drag and the right line, rather than on a dear blank. And we do not invent recommendations; we describe what to look for and why, so the choice holds whichever brand you land on.

Already know what you need? See the full tackle overview, or start from the beginning in the beginner’s guide.

Pages in this category may contain affiliate links. That never changes our advice.

FAQ

How do I choose the right tackle as a beginner?

Start from the method you want to fish and buy in the right size class for put-and-take fish. A matched set is often the best way to begin. Our guides go through what to look for.

Is dearer always better?

No. For put and take a keenly priced mid-range goes a long way. Prioritise the right class or size and a working drag over expensive finish.

Should I buy a set or parts separately?

A matched set where rod and reel belong together is cheapest and safest to start with. Buy parts separately only when you know what you want to upgrade.

Related