Charleston’s saltwater scene is no joke. From redfish in the backwaters to speckled trout off the jetties your gear needs to work just as hard as you do and look good doing it. Quantum is quickly becoming known for their innovative engineering and battle tested durability. Their Benchmark and Myth combo should be in every angler’s arsenal, whether you are an experienced fishermen or just getting started. We’ve had the chance to put some of their gear to the test and here’s what we found.

Benchmark 3000 & Medium Light Myth Rod

If your perfect day involves looking for reds in skinny water or casting for specks from the kayak the Benchmark 3000 paired with a medium light Myth rod is your go to. This setup is light, responsive, and sensitive enough to feel the softest tap of a trout bite but it’s got backbone too.

The Benchmark 3000 reel offers silky smooth drag with Quantum’s Dura-Lok™ clutch and solid line management thanks to the SCR aluminum body. If you’re casting artificial shrimp under a popping cork or jigging soft plastics it keeps things efficient and precise. Paired with the medium-light Myth rod it’s a match made for finesse fishing. Lightweight with the kind of feedback that makes every cast feel like an extension of your hand.

We tested this combo in the creeks around Shem Creek and Folly Beach and it performed flawlessly. Light enough for long days on the water but still strong enough to wrangle a stubborn slot red from under the grass line. I actually reeled in the biggest sheepshead I’ve ever caught in Charleston on this combo while targeting reds near Bowens Island.

Benchmark 4000 & Medium Myth Rod

Step things up with the Benchmark 4000 on a medium Myth rod, truly a do it all setup that’s just as happy skipping jigs under docks as it is throwing cut bait for flounder. The extra drag power and larger spool make it ideal for targeting bigger inshore species or fishing in heavier current. Since the tides change so often here in Charleston the 4000 series is great for when the water is ripping.

The Benchmark 4000 delivers impressive torque with the same smooth operation as the 3000 and the slightly heavier medium power Myth rod balances it out perfectly. Whether you're fishing oyster edges or dropping live bait near structure this combo gives you control and confidence. I’ve been using it as a shark rod as well targeting Atlantic sharp nose and it handles them beautifully.

One of our best tests came near the Wando River where this setup helped land a fat 32 inch redfish in some gnarly current. The rod had the strength to steer the fish and the finesse to keep it buttoned up. This combo earns a spot as a dependable daily driver for Charleston’s unpredictable inshore bites.

Strive Rod & Reel Combo

For anglers who want quality without piecing together separate components Quantum’s Strive combo deserves a serious look. This matched rod and reel set is ideal for weekend warriors, younger anglers, or anyone just starting to build their inshore arsenal.

The Strive spinning reel is built with the same care Quantum puts into their higher end gear. You get smooth drag, durable construction, and ready to go out of the box. The rod is balanced and responsive making it a great option for popping corks, live bait, or light artificials.

We love that the Strive combo is budget friendly without cutting corners. It's an ideal “grab and go” setup for surf casting on Folly or tossing shrimp on the grass lines of the Kiawah River. It's simple, efficient, and it just plain works.

Final Cast

Quantum’s Benchmark reels and Myth rods bring tournament level performance to the inshore angler who demands more from the drag system to the ergonomics. For those just getting started the Strive combo is a confidence building setup that gets you on the water and in the game.

If you're keeping an eye on the industry buzz Quantum just made headlines at ICAST 2025 where the Cabo reel took home Best Saltwater Reel and the Merit combo won Best Saltwater Combo. It’s a clear signal that Quantum continues to push the boundaries of innovation for anglers who fish hard and expect the best.

So next time you load the truck for an early morning tide don’t forget your Benchmark and Myth setup. Because around here the fish don’t wait and neither should your gear.

Check out more from Quantum Fishing here!

Written by Nick Levine
Outdoor Enthusiast | Gear Reviewer | Fishing & Inshore Specialist