Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod Review

Here is our Ugly Stik Gx2 Spinning Rod review.

Shakespeare has been in the field of fishing gear for quite a time now. Their rods are famous for being sturdy and offering good value for the price. 

I spent some time doing my research and In this article, I am going to review Shakespeare Ugly Stik Gx2 Spinning Rod. 

Overall, I think it’s a buying worthy rod that offers sensitivity and sturdiness at an affordable cost. Let’s dive into more details:

Ugly Stik Gx2 Spinning Rod Review

Detailed Overview

Now, let’s take about the features in more details:

Rod Blank

This rod features UglyTech™ technology which is a combination of Fibreglass and Graphite.Graphite are lightweight and sensitive that’s why a lot of expensive rods are made of graphite nowaday. Fibreglass isn’t as sensitive, but it’s stronger enough for large fish purposes. 

By combining the both materials you’re getting a taste of both materials, which is a pretty good idea in my opinion. You get a strong rod that is resistant to breaking without sacrificing sensitivity. 

Clear Tip

Most of Ugly stick Rods are characterised by their clear tip. Ugly Stik Gx2 isn’t an exception. Clear-tip provides a higher level of sensitivity required to feel the slightest bites in the bottom of the water. 

The clear tip does not affect the casting distance and it’s also durable enough to keep on catching big game species. 

One Piece Guide Design

UglyTuffTM single-piece guides have a stamped stainless steel construction that makes the rod difficult to break. The earlier model was durable, but it had classic ceramic inserts that breaks somehow easily. It’s also suitable for the different types of fishing lines. 

Comfortable EVA Grip

I know that most anglers prefer cork grip, but EVA handle is a comfortable alternative. It resists moisture which will give you a strong grip during wet conditions. 

It’s cleaning friendly and pretty comfortable which won’t fatigue your arm during hours of fishing. 

Cost-Effective

The UglyStick GX2 rod offers a great value at a pretty affordable price. This comes as expected Shakespeare company which usually offers quality products for a reasonable cost.

Strong and Durable

You don’t want to get a rod and replace it after light usage.The incorporation of fibreglass in the blank construction resulted in a strong spinning rod. You don’t have to worry about fighting big fish anymore. 

Lightweight and Travel Friendly

Adding graphite to the construction of a rod made it lightweight enough to ease travelling with it. Also, if being a one piece rod is an obstacle for you, you will be happy to know that GX2 spinning rod comes in 2pcs in longer and faster action versions. 

The Wide Variety Of Options

The UglyStick GX2 spinning rod offers around 23 spinning rod models of different lengths, power ratings and weights. It also offers a casting rod version. That being said, you can use it for different fishing techniques and water conditions. You can always pick what is suitable for you. 

Note: The one piece version is more sensitive than the 2 pcs version. However, the latter is easier to travel with. 

The Reel-seat Design

It offers 2 locking systems option: 

1. A conventional locking system. 
2. A twist-lock design. 

Those 2 options will help you keep your fishing reel secure enough. 

The Pros And Cons OF Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod

As a summary, here are some of the advantages and drawback that we noticed:

What To Like?

• A wide variety of lengths and actions. 
• High sensitivity. 
• Amazing durability. 
• Lightweight. 
• Reasonably priced. 
• Travel friendly.
• 7-year warranty. 

What We Hate?

• It doesn’t have a cork handle. 
• It’s a freshwater fishing rod, so it doesn’t work for saltwater fishing. 

What Are The Things To Consider Before Buying A Spinning Rod?

Checking on a spinning rod can be a little tricky. Here is a quick guide that I prepared to help you in your decision:

Action

Action refers to which part of the rod will bend first. There is no single best action, as it highly depends on what your target species is. For instance, Musky fishing requires slow action rods, while trout fishing requires fast action rods. 

Power

Power refers to how much power the rods need before it bends. It ranges from ultralight fishing rods to heavy ones. You need to determine which fishing technique you’re using to choose the suitable power rating for you. The higher the power rate, the bigger the fish you can catch. 

Durability

You don’t want your spinning rod to snip off on your first fishing trip. Make sure to choose a fishing rod that is made of high quality materials. Some good materials to choose from are: Graphite, carbon and fibreglass. 

Rod Length

It’s quite important. It highly affects the casting accuracy, distance and hook set leverage. [1] Longer rods are usually above 7 feet and they cast for further distances and they give you more leverage on hook sets. Shorter rods are under 7 feet and cast more accurately. 

FAQs

Is the Ugly Stik GX2 a one piece?

While it features one piece rods, it also comes in 2 pcs and 4 pcs. 

How much weight can an Ugly Stik GX2 handle?

It can handle line weight up to 8-20 lbs and lure weight up to 1/4-3/4 oz.

Is the Ugly Stik GX2 good for trout?

Well, it’s suitable for fishing trout and a wide variety of fish species also. It all depends on which power and action you’re choosing. Ugly Stik GX2 is a highly sensitive rod which makes it perfect for trout. 

Is Ugly Stik GX2 good for saltwater fishing?

Actually, No! It was specifically made for freshwater fishing. However, if you need a saltwater fishing rod, you can check our guide here about the best saltwater two piece fishing rods. [internal link]

Alternatives

If you doesn’t feel that Ugly Stik GX2 is the one, feel free to check our guides on alternative options like: 

• St Croix Trout Series Spinning Rod Review – The Ultimate Guide.
• St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod Review – Is It Worth Buying?

Final Verdict

I find that the GX2 spinning rod is one of the best rods in the market and worth buying. It’s a reasonably priced rod that comes with high sensitivity and durable performance. However, if you’re looking for really high end features like the high dollar one, you won’t find them here. You also can’t use the rod for saltwater fishing. 

The rule is that you get what you pay for. However, in this case, you get a high value for a good price.