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Ugly Stik Elite

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16 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [16]

85
Total expert reviews: 16
  • with a score: 2
  • without a score: 14
Highest score by fishingisbliss.com
90
Average score based on 16 reviews
85
Lowest score by backcountrycariboo.com
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
The Shimano Sustain FJ Spinning Reel is a high-quality fishing reel that offers smooth and reliable performance. It features a durable construction and advanced technology that makes it a great choice for serious anglers.
+ pros
  • Smooth and powerful drag system: The author highlights the reel's smooth and powerful drag system, which allows for easy and efficient line control during fights with fish.
  • Durable construction: The reel is praised for its durable construction, ensuring longevity and reliability even in harsh fishing conditions.
  • Lightweight design: The Sustain FJ is commended for its lightweight design, making it comfortable to use for extended periods without causing fatigue.
  • Smooth and precise casting: The reel's smooth and precise casting abilities are mentioned as a positive feature, allowing for accurate and effortless long-distance casts.
  • Versatile performance: The author notes that the Sustain FJ performs well in various fishing situations, making it suitable for a wide range of fishing techniques and species.
- cons
  • Price: The reel's higher price point is mentioned as a potential drawback for some anglers who may be on a tighter budget.
  • Limited line capacity: The author points out that the reel's line capacity may be insufficient for certain types of fishing that require heavier lines or longer spools.
  • Handle grip: The grip on the reel's handle is criticized for being slightly uncomfortable, especially during prolonged use.
  • Maintenance requirements: The author mentions that the reel requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, which may be seen as a downside for anglers who prefer low-maintenance equipment.
  • Availability: The limited availability of the Sustain FJ in certain regions or stores is mentioned as a potential inconvenience for anglers trying to purchase the reel.
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Expert consensus

The Ugly Stik Elite spinning rod is a versatile and durable option for anglers of all levels, offering excellent sensitivity and strength for a variety of fishing situations.

The Ugly Stik Elite spinning rod is a versatile and reliable option for anglers of all levels of experience. It is well-suited for light to medium fishing in both saltwater and freshwater settings. The rod is available in multiple lengths and offers different action and power ratings, allowing anglers to select a rod that matches their fishing style and target fish.

While the Ugly Stik Elite may not have the best casting distance, it excels in sensitivity, making it ideal for detecting bites and subtle movements. The rod's Clear Tip design enhances sensitivity, and its flexibility allows for better control while fishing. It is considered easy to cast with and suitable for various fishing techniques and conditions.

The Ugly Stik Elite is highly regarded for its durability and strength. It holds up firmly during battles with fish of all sizes, thanks to its sturdy graphite blank. The rod is also praised for its versatility, making it suitable for different kinds of game fishing such as river trout, redfish, speckled trout, and bass.

In terms of construction, the Ugly Stik Elite is well-built and made to last. It is constructed using a combination of graphite and fiberglass materials, with a higher percentage of graphite for enhanced strength and sensitivity. The rod features one-piece stainless steel guides that are resistant to rust and bending, and the handles are made of premium cork for a comfortable grip.

Overall, the Ugly Stik Elite is recommended for anglers who prioritize sensitivity, durability, and versatility in their fishing rods. It may not be the best option for long casting distances, but it excels in detecting bites and subtle movements, making it a reliable choice for various fishing scenarios.

Features

The Ugly Stik Elite is a lightweight and versatile spinning rod that is well-suited for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

The Ugly Stik Elite is a spinning rod that is well-suited for light to medium fishing in both saltwater and freshwater settings. It is available in multiple lengths ranging from 6 feet to 7 feet, making it versatile for various fishing situations. The rod is designed to be lighter in weight compared to its predecessor, the Ugly Stik GX2, thanks to its increased graphite content.

This lighter weight allows for easier handling and casting. The Ugly Stik Elite is available in different action ratings, including Moderate Fast, Fast, Extra Fast, Medium, and Medium Fast, providing options for different fishing styles and preferences. Additionally, it offers a range of power ratings, allowing anglers to select a rod that matches their fishing style and target fish.

Overall, the Ugly Stik Elite is a reliable and versatile spinning rod that is suitable for a wide range of fishing scenarios.

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Performance

The Ugly Stik Elite fishing rod is highly regarded for its sensitivity, durability, and versatility, making it a reliable choice for anglers of all levels of experience.

The Ugly Stik Elite fishing rod has received mixed reviews regarding its performance. While it may not have the best casting distance, it is highly regarded for its sensitivity in detecting bites and subtle movements. The rod's Clear Tip design enhances sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel even the smallest bites.

This makes it ideal for fishing with lures, especially in deeper freshwater. The Ugly Stik Elite is also known for its flexibility, which allows for better control and sensitivity while fishing. It is considered easy to cast with and suitable for various fishing techniques and conditions.

In terms of overall performance, the Ugly Stik Elite has received positive feedback from experts. It is praised for its durability and strength, holding on firmly during battles with fish of all sizes. The rod's sturdy graphite blank contributes to its reputation for durability. The Ugly Stik Elite is also described as versatile, suitable for different kinds of game fishing such as river trout, redfish, speckled trout, and bass.

Overall, the Ugly Stik Elite is recommended for anglers of all levels of experience who prioritize sensitivity, durability, and versatility in their fishing rods. It may not be the best option for long casting distances, but it excels in detecting bites and subtle movements, making it a reliable choice for various fishing scenarios.

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Construction

The Ugly Stik Elite fishing rod is highly praised for its construction, combining graphite and fiberglass materials to enhance strength and flexibility, while also featuring stainless steel guides and premium cork handles for durability and comfort.

The Ugly Stik Elite fishing rod is highly praised by experts for its construction and build quality. It is constructed using a combination of graphite and fiberglass materials, with a higher percentage of graphite compared to previous models. The addition of graphite enhances the strength, flexibility, and sensitivity of the rod, while the fiberglass component adds durability and toughness.

The rod also features one-piece stainless steel guides that are resistant to rust and bending, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. The handles are made of premium cork, providing a comfortable grip and enhancing durability. Experts highlight the exceptional build quality of the Ugly Stik Elite, praising its durability, strength, and ability to hold up during intense battles with fish.

The rod is described as lightweight and comfortable to handle for long periods. The manufacturer provides a seven-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Overall, the Ugly Stik Elite is considered a well-built fishing rod that can withstand challenging conditions and provide anglers with a reliable and durable option.

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all fishing rods.

Rank Change Price Fishing Rod
Wirecutter
Reviewed
OutdoorGearLab
Forbes
fishinggearcenter.com
BestReviews
Field & Stream
TheManual
boatsafe.com
wired2fish.com
1
- $165
St.Croix Triumph
The St. Croix Triumph fishing rod is a versatile and high-quality spinning rod that offers excellent performance, durability, and sensitivity, making it a top choice for anglers of all skill levels.
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1
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8
1
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7
-
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2
- Check price
Ugly Stik GX2
The Ugly Stik GX2 fishing rod is highly praised by experts for its exceptional construction, durability, and performance, making it a versatile and reliable choice for anglers of all skill levels.
3
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1
4
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3
- $50
Ugly Stik Elite
The Ugly Stik Elite spinning rod is a versatile and durable option for anglers of all levels, offering excellent sensitivity and strength for a variety of fishing situations.
2
-
4
2
-
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-
-
-
-
4
- $59
Plusinno Carbon Fiber Telescopic
The Plusinno Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod is a versatile and reliable fishing rod that offers convenience, durability, and exceptional performance for anglers of all skill levels.
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1
2
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