Expert Recommendations: Best Rods & Reels for Canadian Walleye Fishing
An Omnia customer asked our customer service reps for their recommendations on the best rods and reels for heading into the Great White North. He was planning a trip with his teenage sons and wanted to get them a good all around rod and reel for fishing while on their Canadian fly-in.
Matt Johnson, Omnia’s co-founder, brought this information to Kipp Youngquist, one of Omnia’s super knowledgeable customer service reps. Matt didn’t have much information on price point or brand preference so he asked Kipp to provide a couple recommendations for rods and reels that he believed would all provide a great all around set-up.
The rest was 6 rods and 3 reels at various price points and brands. They were all spinning sets ups with a price range of about $100 per item to $600 each. Brands included Daiwa, St Croix, G Loomis and Shimano.
Best Rod Action and Weight For Canada Fishing: Medium or Medium Heavy
Most of the rods fell into the medium or medium-light rod weight category with fast or extra fast action. Walleyes in Canada come in a range of sizes but it’s common to find them in the consistent 18-24 inch range so the lighter rod action is the way to go. Having a fast or extra fast action will allow for a more sensitive bite and more flex on the hookset. Highest priced rods in these options are lighter and contain higher quality materials and components.
$109.99
St. Croix Eyecon Spinning Rods
7'0" / Medium-Light / Fast - Riggin'
St. Croix Avid Series Walleye Spinning Rods - EOL
7'0" / Medium-Light / Fast
Shimano Expride B Spinning Rods
6'8" / Medium / Extra-Fast
G. Loomis NRX+ Spinning Rods
6'10" / Medium-Light / Fast - 821S NRR
Best Reel Action and Weight: 2500 size and moderate retrieve ratio
The reels ranged in price from $100-$600 with 3 options that all fell in the 2500-300 size. At $109, the Diawa Fuego reel is probably the highest bang for the buck option, while the Shimano Stradic at $199 and Shimano Exsence at the highest end ($600) are lighter and provide some longevity extension because they’re sealed.
Fly ins are expensive and it’s always great to make that extra investment in quality gear. We’ve selected our favorite all around rods and reels to help you put walleyes in the boat in Canada.
