I have hundreds of bass fishing rods and reels in my arsenal. While I have many specialized combos, a number of them work well in a wide variety of applications. These are my go-to rods whenever I’m packing light or fishing in a buddies boat. The Shimano Caius Casting Combo falls in this category, offering versatile performance that works with many different techniques. This rod has a number of features I’ve really enjoyed, at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
MY FAVORITE FEATURES
My absolute favorite feature on this rod is its overall performance and price tag. I’ve only had this rod a few weeks, however its sensitivity and overall performance is obvious. I’ve used this rod for both slow moving bottom baits and fast moving reaction baits. This rod has the sensitivity to handle finesse style bottom boats, while remaining light enough to fish fast moving reaction baits without fatigue.
Another feature I’ve really enjoyed is the Variable Brake System found in the Shimano Caius Casting Reel. I’ve done lots of flipping and skipping using this reel, and I’ve been impressed with its overall smoothness and consistency. This system is super adjustable making it easy for anglers to adjust their reel on the fly.
ROD SPECS
- Length: 7’0
- Rod: Casting
- Power: Medium-Heavy
- Taper: Fast
- Lure Weight: 1/4 – 3/4-ounce
- Line Size: 10 to 20-pound
REEL SPECS
- Retrieve: Right
- Gear Ratio: 7:2:1
- Weight: 6.5 Ounces
- Line Capacity: 12/110, 14/90
APPLICATIONS
This style of casting rod is extremely versatile, as you can use it for basically whatever application you want. I’ve practiced a variety of techniques using the Shimano Caius Casting Combo, however my favorites include a vibrating jig and spinnerbait. This length and action is my dispersed setup for both of these baits, and I’ve used it to catch quite a few bass. I typically throw these lures in and around tight cover, so a shorter rod is ideal for making those accurate casts. Furthermore, the high gear ratio is perfect for quickly picking up line after getting a bite or coming in contact with structure.
Another application I love using the Shimano Caius Casting Combo for is throwing a light Texas rig. I typically use 15 to 17-pound fluorocarbon on this setup, and it is the perfect action for fishing around sparse cover. This is my preferred setup for flipping and skipping a Texas rig under docks, around laydowns and other types of isolated cover. I use anywhere between a 1/4 and 3/8-ounce weight on this rod, and I vary my hook sizes depending on the size on my soft plastic. Some of my favorites include the Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver and the Berkley Pit Boss.
THE VERDICT
This rod is a straight up work horse, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for an affordable all-around bass fishing rod. I’m not saying the Caius Casting Combo can compete with something in the $400-$500 range, however I believe it outperforms most rods in its category. Retailing for only $149.99, it delivers top notch performance no matter what bass fishing techniques anglers choose for only a fraction of the price.
