Choosing whether to buy a rod and reel combo or just the rod largely depends on your fishing preferences. If you're a beginner or an occasional angler, it might be more advantageous for you to invest in a rod and reel combo as they are typically well-matched by manufacturers, alleviating any compatibility issues that could arise from choosing them separately. This combination also usually comes at a lower cost compared to buying them individually. However, if you're an intermediate or experienced angler who wants more specialized gear tailored specifically to your style of fishing, choosing the rod alone might allow for better customization. You can pick your preferred reel independently offering greater flexibility in terms of features and price points.