Zebco's Rhino spin combo has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from the familiar push-button reels of the past into a cutting-edge fishing tool. This reinvention is particularly intriguing, as it challenges the notion of what the Rhino name once represented. The new Rhino rod and reel combo, along with mono and braided fishing lines, were introduced at ICAST this year and will be available in the fall. The author, Sam Hudson, had the opportunity to test the gear during a fishing trip in Florida, alongside fellow anglers and industry experts.
One of the standout features of the Rhino combo is its exceptional durability. Chris Littau, vice president of the Zebco brand, demonstrated the rod's strength by lifting a pair of 15-pound dumbbells with a setup rigged with heavy 50-pound braid. The rod bent like a candy cane but did not snap, showcasing its ability to handle extreme toughness and strength. This level of durability is particularly appealing to anglers who prioritize toughness in their gear, especially those who fish hard and expect their equipment to endure the rigors of the sport.
The Rhino rod's technology, including TriAx Core, plays a significant role in its enhanced durability. TriAx Core uses a high-density fiber blank woven in three distinct directions, providing 360-degree structural integrity and preventing the rod from twisting or flattening out when fighting a fish. This design, combined with a break-resistant solid glass rod tip, ArmorOne one-piece stainless steel guides, and a non-slip RhinoGrip handle, ensures that the rod can handle abuse and maintain its integrity.
The Rhino spinning reel is equally impressive, with features like AsyxDrive (Zebco's asymmetrical gearing for torque), five ball bearings, anti-reverse, an oversized bail wire, and HydroShield to block out dirt and moisture. These components contribute to the reel's reliability and performance, making it a robust and dependable tool for anglers.
During the fishing trip, the Rhino combo proved its versatility and effectiveness in various fishing styles. The author and his companions successfully caught speckled trout, snappers, tripletail, jacks, and even bonefish using the combo. The medium-light rod felt comfortable and light in their hands, and its sensitivity allowed for effective lure work. The combo's ability to launch lures easily made it the popular choice for casting topwaters and subsurface swimmers.
The Rhino combo's appeal extends beyond its durability and performance. Zebco's decision to reinvent the Rhino line and introduce new models and technologies demonstrates a commitment to innovation and improvement. This approach is refreshing, as it moves away from relying solely on traditional designs and embraces the development of cutting-edge gear. The Rhino combo is also expected to retail for a price that is appealing to budget and beginner anglers, making it accessible to a wider range of fishermen.
In conclusion, Zebco's Rhino spin combo represents a significant advancement in fishing technology. Its durability, performance, and innovative design make it a compelling choice for anglers seeking a reliable and versatile tool for their fishing adventures. The reinvention of the Rhino name and the introduction of new models and technologies showcase Zebco's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of fishing gear.
