The rods hardware has also been vastly improved, with the introduction of the Ugly Tuff guides and Ugly Stik clear tip. The Tuff guides are made of a one-piece, stamped stainless steel construction that provides maximum durability and no ceramic inserts that could accidentally pop put. The Ugly Stik Clear Tip technology is taken from the original Ugly Stik range but the advancement in blank technology improves the overall sensitivity of the rod tip ensuring you feel every bump or hit on the rod tip. For those chasing a heavier class of fish, there’s a 4’9” and 6’ which are great for saltwater kayak and boat applications, both in and outside the heads. Whether you are a beginner fisherman or an experienced angler, it is hard to go wrong with adding a few of the Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 models into your collection.

Introduced in 1976, the Shakespeare Ugly Stik is something that most of us anglers are familiar with. During our growing up years when we saw the Ugly Stik being used by our fathers and grandfathers, we developed a kind of attachment to it.No, the Ugly Stik GX2 is not unbreakable . Everything can be broken. The frequent use of “unbreakable” is an exaggeration and marketing to highlight the fact they’re a strong rod.

Though such a composition has been a part of the previous rods before, there is increased use of graphite in the GX2. The Ugly Stik is frequently broken when we decide to show our fishing buddies just how “unbreakable” it is.The guides have been completely redesigned into a single piece, stamped stainless steel which adds durability to the already rugged design. Once I got one of these rods in my hands, I was able to tell right away that the balance point has been moved to the butt end of the rod.

Rod Blank–First off this new generation of technology is called Ugly Tech™and features a new blank through reel seat design that is a combination of traditional fiberglass with the addition of a touch of graphite. There are a bunch of rods in this series that are perfect for saltwater applications. I would advise you to ignore the freshwater categorization. For general kayak fishing endeavours, the 4ft rod is a dependable choice. Its design caters to a broad range of species, providing versatility to both novice and seasoned anglers. The rod boasts a sporting long tip coupled with a short butt action, offering a delightful blend of flexibility and strength. This unique construction not only provides enjoyment when catching smaller fish but swiftly transitions to a formidable force when larger, more powerful fish engage with the line. Be it braided, carbon or monofilament lines, the guides are perfectly fine for all. Here the big guide remains on the main blank, unlike the earlier version where the blank carried all the guides. Functioning I have to say the new rod feels much better in my hands and I think it is lighter and easier to cast, which is sure to mean that is the end of a long day on the water, that your forearm is not going to feel so worked. Ugly Stik GX2 Features

Key Features

One would argue that Shakespeare is particularly confident with the GX2 – and they’d be right because it’s extremely robust. Medium Power Models: Available in lengths ranging from 5’6” to 7’. Adapted to suit a wide variety of general use.