The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo Review No One Else Gives You
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo is a meticulously engineered fishing tool from Lew’s, designed to elevate your angling experience. It combines a responsive IM7 graphite rod with a smooth, high-performance baitcast reel, all at a price point that’s hard to ignore. I was drawn to this combo because I needed a reliable, versatile setup for targeting bass in various conditions, without breaking the bank.
I remember the day I unboxed the combo. The sleek black and green color scheme immediately caught my eye, hinting at the power and precision within. The rod felt surprisingly lightweight in my hands, and the reel spun effortlessly, suggesting a smooth and refined operation.
Having used several baitcast combos in the past, I was particularly interested in how the Lew’s Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) system would perform compared to the standard magnetic braking systems on my older setups. I previously used a Shimano Curado DC and a Abu Garcia Revo SX combo; both excellent performers, but significantly pricier. The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo seemed to offer similar features at a more accessible price.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked great and felt good in hand, but the real test would be on the water. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype or would prove to be just another mid-range combo.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo was on a local lake known for its largemouth bass population. I tested it using a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing a good test of its casting ability in less-than-ideal conditions.
The Lew’s MSB system proved its worth almost immediately. I was able to dial in the braking force quickly and easily, preventing backlashes even with lighter lures. The rod’s fast action allowed me to feel subtle strikes, and the comfortable Winn Dri-Tac handle provided a secure grip, even with wet hands. There were no initial problems.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. The rod has held up well to the rigors of frequent fishing trips. There are no signs of stress or cracking in the blank.
The reel has maintained its smooth operation, and the drag system has performed flawlessly when battling hard-fighting bass. I make sure to clean the reel with a specialized reel cleaner and lubricate it after every 2-3 outings. Comparing this to a previous, cheaper combo I used, the Lew’s has held up much better, showing significantly less wear and tear.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo
Specifications
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The reel features 7+1 stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring smooth operation and corrosion resistance. This is a key factor in the reel’s longevity, especially when fishing in saltwater or brackish environments.
The Rulon drag system delivers a maximum drag of 15 lbs, providing ample stopping power for larger fish. The externally adjustable Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) dual cast control allows for precise adjustments to minimize backlashes and maximize casting distance. This MSB system is a standout feature, especially for anglers who fish with a variety of lure weights and types.
The reel’s one-piece graphite frame and sideplates keep the weight down while maintaining rigidity and strength. It features a machine-forged, anodized aluminum spool, offering both durability and lightweight performance, with a large capacity to handle plenty of line. The combo features a 95mm anodized aluminum handle with Lew’s Combat Grip paddles, providing comfortable and secure handling.
The rod is constructed from a one-piece IM7 graphite blank, known for its sensitivity and responsiveness. The split-grip Winn Dri-Tac rod handle with EVA butt provides all-day comfort and enhanced grip, even in wet conditions. The Winn grips are a significant upgrade over traditional cork or foam grips, offering superior comfort and control.
It includes Lew’s exclusive skeletal reel seat that ensures a secure and comfortable connection between the reel and rod. The rod features 7+Tip guides; the guide type is also 7+Tip, ensuring smooth line flow and minimizing friction for longer casts. The number and placement of these guides are optimized for baitcasting setups, providing excellent line control and accuracy. The gear ratio is 7.5:1, translating to a 30-inch line recovery per turn.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo performs exceptionally well in a variety of fishing scenarios. Its fast action rod provides excellent sensitivity. This enables anglers to detect even the slightest strikes.
The reel’s smooth and powerful drag system makes it easy to control hard-fighting fish. The combo’s overall performance exceeds expectations for a setup in this price range. However, the more expensive combos from Shimano and Abu Garcia do offer a slight upgrade in smoothness and overall refinement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo features a sleek and modern design that is both functional and visually appealing. The combination of black, white, gray, and green accents creates a striking aesthetic. The use of lightweight materials ensures that the combo is comfortable to fish with for extended periods.
The Winn Dri-Tac grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, even in wet conditions. There’s virtually no learning curve because it’s relatively straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo is built to last, with high-quality components and durable construction. The IM7 graphite rod blank is strong and resilient. The stainless steel ball bearings are corrosion-resistant. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the reel are essential to maintain its performance.
Disassembling the reel for thorough cleaning is relatively simple, and replacement parts are readily available should they ever be needed. With proper care, this combo should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo comes with the essential components needed to start fishing right out of the box. While the combo does not include additional accessories, there are several customization options available to enhance its performance and personalize it to your specific needs. The reel is compatible with a variety of aftermarket handles and knobs. These allow anglers to fine-tune the feel and control of the reel.
The rod is compatible with different types of fishing line, allowing anglers to tailor their setup to the specific species they are targeting. While the combo is not designed for extensive customization, the available options allow anglers to optimize its performance for their specific fishing style.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo
Pros
- Incredibly smooth casting and retrieval due to the 7+1 bearing system.
- The MSB braking system is highly effective at preventing backlashes, making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
- The Winn Dri-Tac grips provide exceptional comfort and grip, even in wet conditions.
- The IM7 graphite rod blank offers excellent sensitivity and responsiveness, allowing anglers to detect subtle strikes.
- Exceptional value for the price, offering features and performance comparable to more expensive combos.
Cons
- The graphite frame, while lightweight, may not be as durable as a full aluminum frame in extreme conditions.
- The rod’s fast action might not be ideal for anglers who prefer a more moderate action for certain fishing techniques.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo?
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo is perfect for: intermediate to advanced anglers looking for a versatile and high-performing baitcasting setup without breaking the bank. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the comfort and grip of Winn Dri-Tac handles.
Who should skip this product? Anglers who require the ultimate durability of a high-end, all-aluminum frame reel might prefer a more expensive option. Those who prefer a moderate action rod for specific techniques like crankbait fishing might also want to consider other combos.
A must-have accessory is a quality fluorocarbon fishing line for increased sensitivity and low visibility in the water.
Conclusion on Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo
The Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo delivers exceptional performance and value, making it a standout choice in its price range. The combination of a sensitive IM7 graphite rod and a smooth, backlash-resistant baitcast reel provides an enjoyable and productive fishing experience. The price is absolutely justified for the features and performance you get.
I would definitely recommend it to any angler looking for a reliable and versatile baitcasting setup. If you are looking to elevate your fishing game without emptying your wallet, the Lew’s Mach Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo is an excellent investment. Get yours today and experience the difference!
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