COLUMBIA, S.C. – Shakespeare introduces an all-new lineup designed specifically for saltwater anglers with the Contender Series. Built for durability and performance, Contender rods, reels, and combos are engineered to handle harsh saltwater conditions and be reliable for surf, inshore, boat or general-purpose applications. Featuring heavy-duty tubular glass rod blanks, aluminum spools, thick stainless-steel bail wires, and X-Wrap rod handles for enhanced strength and control, the Contender Series gives saltwater anglers reliable, ready-to-fish setups they can count on at a great value.

The Contender Spinning Reels are built for smooth, dependable performance with 3 ball bearings + 1 roller bearing and soft-touch handle grips. Lightweight aluminum spools and thick stainless steel bail wires deliver strength without sacrificing ease-of-use. All come pre-spooled with Stren line.

SHAKESPEARE CONTENDER SPINNING REELS – KEY FEATURES:
• 3 ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
• Molded reel foot and soft-touch handle knob
• Pre-spooled with Stren line
• Aluminum spool for lightness and performance
• Thick stainless steel bail wire for increased strength

MSRP: $46.99-$54.99
Available: October 2025

Engineered for precision and control, the Contender Conventional Reel features a 2-ball bearing design, stainless steel synchronized level wind, and an on/off selective bait clicker, giving anglers effortless casting, smooth line retrieval and the versatility to handle a wide range of saltwater applications.

SHAKESPEARE CONTENDER CONVENTIONAL REELS – KEY FEATURES:
• 2 ball bearing design
• Stainless steel synchronized level wind
• On/Off selective bait clicker
• 30 size conventional reel

MSRP: $74.99
Available: October 2025

The Contender Rods and Combos are built to deliver strength and comfort for long days on the water. Heavy-duty tubular glass blanks, stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts, and X-Wrap rod handles provide exceptional performance and grip. Combos pair these rods with matching spinning or conventional reels for a ready-to-fish setup that meets the demands of saltwater anglers.

SHAKESPEARE CONTENDER RODS AND COMBOS – KEY FEATURES:
• Heavy-duty tubular glass rod blanks
• Stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts
• X-Wrap rod handles for enhanced grip and performance
• Balanced combos for surf, boat, inshore, and general-purpose fishing

MSRP: Rods – $36.99-$41.99 | Combos – $74.99-$94.99
Available: October 2025

For more information about the Shakespeare Contender Series, click here.