Lew’s TP2 Gen 3 Casting Rod – Honest Review

There’s something about finding quality fishing gear that doesn’t break the bank—it just hits different. I’ve used a lot of rods over the years, some cheap, some expensive, but every now and then, one really stands out. That’s exactly what happened when I got my hands on the Lew’s TP2 Gen 3 Casting Rod.

I’ve spent the past few weeks putting this rod through its paces, and I’m excited to share everything—from the feel in the hand to how it performed out on the water.

Whether you’re just getting into casting rods or looking for a reliable new addition to your setup, this review will help you figure out if the TP2 Gen 3 is worth your money.

First Impressions – In the Hand

The moment I picked up the TP2, it felt like something more than your average $100 rod.

I tested the 7’ medium-heavy fast action model, and it immediately impressed me with its weight, balance, and grip.

The rod feels light but not flimsy, and it has that just-right tension that tells you it’s ready to fight some fish.

One of the first things I noticed was the Winn Dri-Tac grip, paired with an EVA foam butt. It’s a split-grip design that I personally prefer—it keeps things ergonomic, comfortable, and helps with control, especially on long days.

The grip didn’t get slippery, even in humid conditions, which is a big plus if you’re out in the heat or near splashy banks.

And let’s not skip the SoftTouch skeletal reel seat—it’s slim, feels solid, and lets your hand touch the blank directly.

That direct contact boosts sensitivity in a big way, letting you feel the lighter bites that other rods might miss.

Key Features at a Glance

Here’s what you’re working with on the Lew’s TP2 Gen 3:

Blank Material: HM45 graphite
Grip: Winn Dri-Tac + EVA foam split grip
Reel Seat: Lew’s exclusive SoftTouch skeletal seat
Guides: Stainless steel with aluminum oxide inserts
Models Available: 10 different sizes/actions to choose from

At just around $100, this rod offers a feature set that’s honestly impressive for the price. The quality of materials and craftsmanship give it a premium feel without the premium price tag.

Specs for the 7’ Medium-Heavy Model

Length: 7 feet
Power: Medium-heavy
Action: Fast
Line Rating: 12–25 lbs
Lure Weight: 1/4 to 7/8 oz

This particular configuration hits a sweet spot for a lot of common techniques—whether you’re working topwaters, Texas rigs, or spinnerbaits. It’s a good middle-ground rod that’s versatile and practical.

On the Water – How It Actually Performs

I started testing the TP2 Gen 3 during mid-summer, pairing it with the Lew’s Custom Pro Gen 3 Casting Reel and spooling it with 40-pound braid.

My fishing trips took place mostly from a kayak, which meant the rod had to handle close-quarters precision casts and long-distance bombs.

Casting performance was solid. The 7’ length let me fire off long casts with ease, but it wasn’t too long to make roll casts or fish tight spaces.

I started off throwing a Berkley Choppo 105, and the rod handled it beautifully. The fast action tip gave me just the right twitch and snap I needed for topwater work.

One of my best catches during testing was a 4+ pound largemouth that crushed my Choppo on an early morning trip. The TP2 had the backbone to control the fight without feeling too stiff.

That balance of sensitivity and power is hard to find, especially in the $100 price range.

Comparing the TP2 Gen 3 to Other Rods

If you’re like me, you probably wonder how this rod compares to others in its class. I’ve used several rods around this price point, and I’ll say it straight: the TP2 Gen 3 holds its own.

In fact, it outperforms many rods in the $150 range. Compared to rods like the Fenwick Eagle, which is similarly priced, the TP2 feels more refined in the hand and more sensitive on the water.

The only budget rod that really gave it a run for its money was the Ark Catalyzer.

That rod is incredibly affordable (around $60), but it comes in limited models. The TP2, on the other hand, has 10 different models, giving you options for finesse, flipping, and everything in between.

The Ideal Combo Setup

If you’re wondering how to get the most out of this rod, pair it with a quality reel. I had it matched with the Lew’s Custom Pro Gen 3, which definitely helped elevate the whole setup.

A high-quality reel can seriously upgrade your experience—even on a budget-friendly rod like this one.

If you’re building a setup from scratch and need to choose between investing more in the rod or the reel, I’d suggest putting a little more cash toward the reel.

A solid reel + this rod will outperform a high-end rod paired with a budget reel any day.

Who Is This Rod For?

The Lew’s TP2 Gen 3 Casting Rod is perfect for a few types of anglers:

Beginner to intermediate bass anglers
Anyone looking for great value without sacrificing performance
Kayak anglers who need versatile length and casting ability
Anglers wanting multiple technique-specific rods without spending a fortune

If you’re building your first baitcasting setup, this is a no-brainer.

If you already have a few rods and want to round out your collection, this is still worth adding to your lineup.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The TP2 Gen 3 is a well-rounded, dependable, and affordable casting rod that punches above its price class. It’s sensitive, strong, and stylish without being flashy or overpriced.

Is it the best casting rod in the world? No. But is it one of the best you can get for around $100? Without a doubt.

If you’re looking for a rod that feels high-end, fishes like a pro-level tool, and doesn’t empty your wallet, this is it.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Lightweight and well-balanced
Excellent sensitivity
Comfortable grip
High-quality components for the price
10 model options for technique-specific use

Cons
✘ No included rod sleeve or storage tube
✘ Might not satisfy anglers seeking ultra-high-end gear

Bottom Line

The Lew’s TP2 Gen 3 Casting Rod proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get great performance. Whether you’re targeting largemouth from a kayak, bank fishing your local pond, or building out your tournament setup, this rod can handle the job with ease.

For $100, it’s a steal—and a smart investment for any serious angler.