Shakespeare has made significant contributions in moving both freshwater fishing reels and saltwater baitcasting reels technology forward. Significant achievements include the invention of the backlash brake. Obviously, this was a critical progression for casting reels, and the technology proved a boon for Shakespeare and its market share. This rod is for any angler looking to tackle a BIG catch from land. You can cast heavy metal slices and poppers, as well as huge flesh baits and live baits.
For nearly 90 years Shakespeare operated as an independent company, developing a diversified presence in sporting goods and industrial products through its expertise in using fiberglass. Shakespeare, with operations in Europe, Asia, and Australia, accounted for a considerable percentage of K2 Inc.’s annual sales and profits during the late 1990s. After using fiberglass to manufacture fishing rods and golf club shafts, Shakespeare began looking for other applications for the strong yet flexible material, having realized the benefits of using fiberglass as a replacement for steel.
Under Henry Shakespeare’s tutelage, Shakespeare Company would proliferate, developing into the multifaceted enterprise in operation during the 1990s. Importantly, they’re a brand for the budget-conscious angler who wants quality shakespeare fishing reel and durability without the hefty price tag. Shakespeare produces great fishing rods at very accessible, entry-level price points. This is the misers budget option, and the quality compares to far more expensive fishing rods.
Dr. Arthur M. Howald, technical director of the Plaskon Company, was one of the legions of individuals who experimented with fiberglass’s strength and flexibility to create improved quality in existing products. shakespeare fishing reel Dr. Howald’s area of interest was in manufacturing a fishing rod constructed with fiberglass. After conducting experiments with fiberglass fishing rods, Dr. Howald turned over his results to Shakespeare Company.
Through Columbia Products, the company began manufacturing commercial fiberglass antennas, which developed into a thriving business. Success with antennas bred further diversification, bringing the company into the business of manufacturing utility pole line hardware and other utility-related products that depended on strong and durable construction. The construction of this facility occurred in the same year Shakespeare opened a new production plant in Fayetteville, Arkansas, for its line of fishing reels and golf clubs.
With practice or experience, you can cast a reasonable distance with this Ugly Stik rod, but that’s not what it’s all about. I’d just like to see the rods with a higher standard of hardware. The rods are fiberglass and the insert-free stainless steel line guides are quite robust. While this makes sense for a rod that is likely to attract significant transits bumps and scrapes, they could have upped the quality of componentry. They cast well, they handle battles well, and these rods are easy to put together and break down. A general-purpose fishing stick is deployed for a variety of applications.
I’ve fished for over 40 years, and I’m more than happy to cast an Ugly Stik Inshore Select all day long. The medium action rod will cover just about everything the shoreside has to offer, excluding mega-fish, of course. I’m still of the opinion that anglers would be happy to pay a few extra dollars for better hardware. Sensitivity is enhanced using braid, but I’d happily spool a 3000 spinning reel with mono and expect good feedback.
Shakespeare made several more level-winds and handed them out. The level-winds were an immediate hit, and that was all the market testing Shakespeare needed. He filed for a patent and quickly prepared himself for his new entrepreneurial career. And there’s no doubting that Shakespeare fishing rods get you out on the water with quality and performance for less. Since the early 2000’s Shakespeare has been innovating rods and reels, amongst other terminal tackle items, with the Catch More Fish kits, to our best in class line of licensed kid’s products. Shakespeare certainly offers something for the whole family and all levels of experience whether you are just starting out or are a professional.
Since 1897, Shakespeare has been the leader in quality yet affordable fishing tackle for anglers in the UK. Shakespeare’s inspiration comes from 115 years of passion and experience, starting with ‘Wondereel’ in 1939 which was the most popular reel to hit the market at the time! In 1976 Shakespeare revolutines the angling community again with the ‘Ugly Stik rod’, the first rod to feature a clear tip and a Howald Process construction which made it virtually indestructible. These days, even though Ugly Stik fishing rods are more affordable than in the early years, there are plenty of brands that deliver both great performance and worthy durability at accessible price points. The cost is quite accessible for anglers on a tight budget.
To be honest, I’d buy 3 of them and put different size reels. I’d put a 2500 spinning reel on the medium-light, a 3000 reel on the medium and a 4000 reel on the medium heavy. I’d use them for focussed hunting trips casting small hard bodies at bass. I’m still astonished that they can make rods like this for the mere pocket change it costs online. If you chase big fish from your boat or kayak, it’s really hard to go past this.