If you're a novice fisherman, selecting the right kind of inexpensive fishing rod can be a  difficult decision, since any rod will vary the way it performs based on, brand, length and durability, it takes an experienced eye, to find exactly the perfect rod, and even then probably necessary to have more than one.

When you hear the name Shakespeare, probably a fishing rod is not the first thing that comes to mind.  However, when you hear the term Shakespeare Ugly Stik, if you're a fisherman, you immediately know, the conversation is about a very high quality, popular, and sleek looking fishing rod.  The popularity of  Shakespeare Ugly Stik Rods most likely comes from a combination of its unusual name combined with its strength and usability; add to that a very competitive price, and you have a rod fishermen will be talking about for years to come.

The color of the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Rods, gray and clear along the tip, is what gave the rod its name.  While most would say, "it looks fine to me and the fish don't care", nevertheless the name "Ugly Stik" has become synonymous with the brand.

The company behind the name is Shakespeare, and they've been in the business for well over 100 years (the company began in 1897), and the "Ugly Stik" was first introduced in 1976 quickly gained an established reputation and following.  The fishing tackle trade news said the following in March of 1976, "Maybe the most remarkable product of the last two decades." 

The company built their reputation on quality and craftsmanship, "built like a watch" became the company's slogan, and then never deviated from that mandate.  While most fishermen will have their favorite rod and reel, over the years a great majority decided to try the ugly stick for themselves.  Once tried, it became the favored for many, and became the company's big seller very soon after reaching the marketplace.

HISTORICAL NOTE: During World War I, the company was converted to manufacture mortar fuses and carburetors. Whenever a particular brand becomes successful, a company will normally expand the product line, and Shakespeare Ugly Stik Rods was no different; expanding the line to include…

Freshwater rods, Pack rods, Classic rods, Catfish rods, Crappie rods and poles, Striper roads, Line counter, and Ladyfish

which are just a few of the variations.  While the casual fishermen may believe any rod can serve the purpose, the experienced fishermen realizes that's simply not true and changing conditions require different rods.  No matter the model of fishermen will find the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Rods light, durable, and comfortable, and many fishermen have more than one rod in their arsenal. If you're fishing big or deep water, Shakespeare makes a version called the "Wicked Stick", a longer, wider and more durable rod for deep-sea fishing; you'll find it exactly what's needed when landing a tuna or a shark.  Strangely enough, the wicked stick comes in multiple colors, while the Ugly Stik Rods remain its neutral gray.

The Shakespeare Company may be known for the "Ugly Stik", but the spirit behind the company is anything but ugly, instead standing for the beauty and elegance of the sport and hobby of millions.