I've spent many weekends on fishing boats, and the benefits of the best fishing rods are clear. You can't use any old rod. A fishing rod to an angler is like a rifle to a Marine, cherish it and make sure it's perfect for you.

If you are only as good as your rod, then it's worth making sure you get the best rod for your money. Many people don't understand the makings of a fishing rod. Although it's relatively simple, there are a lot of moving parts involved in how a rod handles the fish.

I love fishing, and I love sharing what I know with new and seasoned anglers. Fishing is not the easiest sport and it requires finesse.

Do you have the technique and knowledge to bring home a big one this year?

Understanding the Best Fishing Rods


To buy the best fishing rods, you first need to understand the rod itself. There are many different types of fishing rods, and they have different materials, varying strengths and powers, and many more details.

While it might seem like a simple purchase, you don't want to go in blindly shopping for something you don't understand.

Different types of rods


Man holding a fishing rod

image source: Pexels

The first thing that everyone must understand before purchasing a fishing rod is the different types. In the end, the best fishing rods are the ones that work best for your style. There are as many as 10 different types of fishing rods, but we're only going to cover some of them.

Spinning rods

A spinning rod is your most common fishing rod and it's light and small. These rods come at 5 to 9 feet and have approximately 6 to 8 eyes. With a spinning rod, the reel is beneath the rod, and you typically hold the line while setting right before you cast.

Casting rods22

A casting rod is similar to a spinning rod, but the primary difference is the location of the reel on the rod. The reel is above the rod with this style which is intended to provide more accuracy to the cast. The line also peels off the rod a bit different with this type of rod.

Casting rods are the best fishing rods for people looking to troll the water.

Spinning and casting rods are the two most popular and most versatile rods. You can use both of these to catch most fish in most fresh bodies of water.

Fly rods

The design of a fly rod is entirely different from the rest. Fly rods are for fly fishing, and the rod is much more flexible to allow for momentum in both directions while casting.

With a fly rod, you don't have a lot of weight on the end of your line. With a spinning or casting rod, you usually have a heavy lure or bait on end with weights on your line. That factor is what determines the strength and distance of your cast.

When fishing with a fly rod, you only have the weight of the fly and your line, which is not much. That requires you to build energy in the rod by backcasting and forward casting. The way you build momentum is through the bend of the rod. That is why they are thin and flexible.

Fly rods also do not have a butt below the reel, which allows for smoother and quicker casting. The materials of a fly rod are usually carbon fiber with a wooden reel mount.

Telescopic rods

A new invention is the telescopic rod. These are compact rods that are extendable and retractable, so they are easy to travel with. When retracted they are only 1 or 2 feet long but extended they can reach as far as 15 feet long.

Rod materials


A person is fishing

image source: Pexels

The materials used on your rod play a significant role in your success as an angler. The best fishing rods use high-quality materials that are strong and flexible.

Fiberglass

At one time fiberglass was the most popular material for fishing rods. Today fiberglass is considered a cheaper material and a weaker rod. Fiberglass rods are sturdy, and they hold up well against wear and tear, but they are too stiff for many anglers.

That material is best for new anglers who are looking to try the sport and don't want to spend a lot of money. Fiberglass also works well for trolling because you can detect every little nibble since the rod is so stiff.

Graphite

Many people think graphite and carbon fiber are the same thing but not entirely. Graphite is carbon fiber, but carbon fiber is not graphite; make sense?

The difference is that graphite is more brittle than carbon fiber and it's much cheaper. Graphite is more affordable because of its manufacturing.

Carbon fiber comes from a chemical process that makes the carbon strands pure and strong. Graphite doesn't go through this process, so while they might be similar, graphite cannot stand up to carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber

Some of the best fishing rods get built from carbon fiber. This rod is light, responsive, flexible, and durable. The only major downside to this material is its brittleness. You cannot use a carbon fiber rod to ice fish, and I wouldn't even recommend them in the cold at all.

This material is the strongest when catching fish, but it will break easier than fiberglass if you drop it on a rock the wrong way.

Rod length

Choosing a rod length is somewhat like choosing the weight of a bowling ball. If the ball is too heavy, you won't be able to roll it as fast, but you'll have more momentum. If the ball is too light, you'll be able to roll it really fast, but you'll only knock down a few pins because there will be less force at the end.

The longer your rod, the longer your cast.

That doesn't mean you should go out and buy the largest rod possible and try to cast halfway across the lake; it's not necessary. The best fishing rods are ones that make sense for your style and habits.

With a massive rod, you'll need more space to cast, and you won't have as much accuracy to hit a specific spot like a weedy patch or underneath a dock.

Instead of choosing a 15-foot rod, choose an 8-foot rod, and supply the right amount of weight through your lure and sinkers to make sure you get the optimal distance on your cast.

Rod power

Now we're getting technical. The power of a fishing rod refers to the amount of pressure it needs to bend. Rods get designed with various power to allow for different fishing styles and different game.

Ultra light

An ultra light rod will bend about halfway down the rod, which means they are incredibly flexible and have a lot of play. These are ideal for smaller panfish because they are more reliable when getting the fish into the boat.

Medium

A medium power rod serves the widest range of purposes on the water. You can catch small to large fish with this power. Medium power splits the difference and gives you enough strength and stiffness paired with flexibility.

Heavy

Heavy power rods are for saltwater fishing for things like tuna or gar. They have a lot of power and can handle fish upwards of 150 pounds. Heavy rods are the most durable, but you don't have much responsiveness because you won't even notice some smaller fish nibbling on the bait.

Rod action

To keep things simple, rod action refers to the amount of bend you have on the blank of the rod. The faster the rod you have, the less bend you have. For example, if you have a fast action ultra light rod, you'll have one of the best fishing rods for catching panfish because it will be responsive yet precise.

If you have a heavy action medium power rod, you would have a durable and strong rod ideal for catching larger fish because it will be responsive yet strong enough to set the hook. Combining the right power and action is what makes the best fishing rods for an angler.

The Best Fishing Rods: Reviewed


Now that you understand the makings of the best fishing rods, it's time to dig into our reviews of the best fishing rods for reeling in the catch of a lifetime. We have a variety of different style rods to appeal to every taste and intention.

KastKing Centron Spinning Combos


KastKing Centron Spinning Combos,6ft Medium-Split Handle,2000 Reel
  • Lightweight and Sensitive Toray IM6 Graphite Blanks – Centron Spinning Combos feature a sensitive and light-weight Toray IM6 Graphite blank designed to provide exceptional value and performance for all anglers. All combos are 2 pc and come in lengths from 6’ for Bass, Trout and Panfish and go all the way to 8’ for Catfish, Steelhead and even Salmon.
  • Stainless Steel Guides w/O-Rings – Strong and durable stainless-steel guides are used on all models with premium O-ring inserts that perform perfectly with both mono or braided lines. The lightweight stainless frames look great and keep the weight down for a perfectly balanced rod blank.
  • Contoured EVA Handles and Fighting Butt – We finish the rods with contoured EVA handles and fighting butt, so the rods feel great in your hand and provide all day comfort and a sure grip while providing for a perfectly balanced rod. Split rear handles are used on the 6’ to 7’ all-purpose combos and full-length EVA handles on the 7’6” medium heavy & 8’ heavy action combos which are perfect for catfish, salmon/steelhead or other large fish.
  • Includes Centron Spinning and Baitcasting Reel – Each combo includes a perfectly matched KastKing Centron spinning reel that matches the rod and the type of fish that it is intended for. Reel sizes start at a compact size 2000 and go all the way to a powerful size 5000 that is perfect for the 8’ heavy action rod intended for Catfish, Salmon and Steelhead.
  • Premium Reel Specs at a Value Price – The KastKing Centron Spinning Comb features a 5.2:1 gear ratio, 9+1 Maxi-Dur ball bearings, anti-twist line roller, light weight graphite frame and aluminum spool. The super smooth reel action is complemented by a powerful triple disc felt drag system.

This rod is a lightweight graphite spinning rod that comes in sizes ranging from 6 feet to 8 feet. The rod has reliable stainless-steel guides on each model, and it has a stainless frame. It comes with an EVA handle to make sure you don't lose your grip when you're fighting the big one.

Along with the rod comes the KastKing Centron spinning reel with a graphite frame and rotor. This rod is ideal for fishing many different types of fish and bodies of water depending on the type and style you choose.

Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combo


The next rod on our best fishing rods list is a telescopic option. This one comes with a carrying bag, three lures, line, and additional accessories. The rod is made using mixed carbon fiber with fiberglass to make the pole durable and flexible.

The reel is a 5.5:1 gear ratio with smooth ball bearings and precision matched gears. It has an ultra-smooth performance and is designed to be non-slip and comfortable when held for long periods.

Telescopic rods are some of the best fishing rods available today; they are also becoming more popular. This rod retracts to approximately one and a half feet long. They offer three different lengths, 5.91 feet, 6.89 feet, and 7.87 feet.

KastKing Sharky III Spinning Combos


KastKing Sharky III Spinning Combos,6ft 6in, M Power-M Fast,2000 Reel
  • POWERFUL Toray IM7 Graphite Blanks – Sharky III fishing rod and spinning reel combos feature powerful, sensitive and light-weight Toray IM7 Graphite blanks designed for serious fishing enthusiasts. All spinning fishing pole combos are 2 pc and come in lengths from 6’6” for panfish, trout and bass fishing and go all the way to 9’ for catfish, salmon and steelhead.
  • PREMIUM - KastKing uses only premium Fuji guides with O-ring inserts that are perfect for mono or braided lines. We also use Fuji reel seats that keep your reel firmly in place during long days fishing and under the pressure of large, hard fighting fish.
  • COMFORT - Light Weight EVA Handles and Fighting Butt – KastKing finishes these fishing rods with first-class EVA handles and fighting butt so the rods feel great in your hand and provide all day comfort and a sure grip.
  • QUALITY - Includes Best Selling Sharky III Spinning Reel – Each combo includes perfectly matched KastKing Sharky III fishing reels for the rod and the type of fish that it is intended for. Fishing reel sizes start at a compact size 2000 and go all the way to a powerful size 5000 for the longer rods. A KastKing reel and rod combo will look great in your fishing rod holder.
  • EXCEPTIONAL REEL – VALUE PRICE – KastKing Sharky III spinning reels have 5.2:1 gear ratios, 10+1 stainless steel shielded ball bearings, lightweight graphite frame, aluminum spool, and a unique protection water resistant design for its spool, body, and rotor that helps keep water and dirt out. This super smooth spinning reel has one of the most powerful triple disc carbon drags in the industry up to 39.5 lbs.

The next rod from KastKing is one of their premium offerings. This rod is graphite with a sensitive and lightweight blank. The spinning rod breaks down into two pieces, and it comes in sizes ranging from 6 feet to 9 feet.

KastKing uses premium Fuji guides, which are ideal for mono or braided lines. The reel seat fits firmly in place and holds up during long days of fishing. The company offers some of the best fishing rods available on the market.

Also, the rod comes with the Sharky III spinning reel, which also ranges in size from 2,000 to 5,000. The size of the reel you choose goes along with the length of your rod.

The graphite frame of the rod is durable, and the blank has a water-resistant coating that helps to prevent the hardware from rusting or rotting.

Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos


ZACX Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Full Kits, Spinning Fishing Gear Pole Sets with Line Lures Hooks and Premium Portable Case for Sea Saltwater Freshwater, Fishing Gifts for Men (7.87)
  • ✔PACKAGE INCLUDE: Full set include necessary accessories for fishing 1 Fishing Rod + 1 Fishing Reel + Fishing Line (328 FT/ 100M)+ Both Soft& Hard Lures + Fishing Hooks + Some Necessary Accessories + Carrier Bag. Just go fishing with this fishing pole set
  • ✔TELESCOPIC ROD POLE: High density carbon fiber material makes the fishing rod hard and durable, telescopic design for conveniently carrying around. Two sizes available - 2.1M/6.89FT and 2.4M/7.87FT
  • ✔DURABLE SPINNING REEL: Durable metal spool, comfortable wooden folding handle and left and right interchangeable. High-tensile graphite body with instant anti-reverse system
  • ✔FISHING TACKLE KIT: High tenacity and colorfast PE braided 100M fishing line provides stronger pulling force than normal thread. Various line connectors, lures and hooks included, meet all your need in fishing. Save the trouble of buying other accessories
  • ✔BEST FISHING GIFTS: Are you looking for fishing gear and equipments for your friends? This is the perfect fishing gear gift for men, father, son, husband, fiance, boyfriend. No anglers would reject this perfect gift, because that's what most fishermen dream of

This telescopic rod comes with a whole bunch of added accessories to simplify your fishing trip. Along with the rod and reel, you also get 33 feet of line, soft and hard lures, hooks, a carrier bag, and more. The best fishing rods offer more than a rod and a reel.

This rod is made using a high-density carbon fiber material that makes the rod durable and strong. It comes in two different sizes ranging from 6.89 feet to 7.87 feet. On the rod, you have a spinning reel with a wooden folding handle and left/right-hand interchange.

Many customers who purchased this product say it worked well as a gift because you get everything included in one.

PLUSINNO Spinning Rod and Reel Combos


PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos -24 Ton Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole - Spinning Reel 12 +1 Shielded Bearings Stainless Steel BB-Free Carrier Bag Case, Travel Saltwater Freshwater Fishing
  • 🎣 Warm Prompt: Full Kit with Carrier Case Include 1 Fishing Rod + 1 Fishing Reel + Fishing Line + Various Fishing Lures + Fishing Hooks + Some Necessary Accessories + Carrier Bag.
  • 🎣 Full Kit with Carrier Case is special made for novice, including nessary accessories for fishing. You can use it without buying any other accessories from anywhere.
  • 🎣 PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod are constructed with High Density 24-Ton Carbon Fiber reinforced with Fiberglass Composite for power,elasticity and durability; The Welded Stainless Steel Guides with Ceramic Inserts for superior casting distance and accuracy while dissipating heat more efficiently which delivers excellent durability with monofilament, fluorocarbon and braided lines; The Exquisite Reel Seat Is Made of Corrosion Resistant CNC Machined Aluminum for a solid base and all-day.
  • 🎣 HA 3000 Fishing Reel With CNC Machine Cut Collapsible Handle, Left / Right Interchangeable The Rod Import Adjustable Full Metal Screw Reel Seat,12+1 Corrosion Resistant Smooth Ball Bearings,Line capacity: mm/M 0.20/240 0.25/200 0.30/140, Gear ratio: 5.2:1.
  • 🎣 It's the best gift to send father, husband, fiancé, boyfriend for the upcoming Father's Day. Want to buy single rod or single reel? Please search the ASIN: B07Y2Z662Z or B07YFP8KV3.

This telescopic rod and reel combo comes with a variety of accessories as well. The list includes line, hooks, lures, and a carrier bag. Even more, you have the option of purchasing only the rod if you don't want everything else.

The rod is constructed of high-density 24-ton carbon fiber with fiberglass composite. It has welded stainless steel guides that deliver increased accuracy and durability. The seat of the reel is made using CNC machined aluminum for corrosion resistance and reliability.

Wild Water Complete 5/6 Fly Fishing Starter Package


Wild Water Standard Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit, 3 or 4 Weight 7 Foot Fly Rod, 4-Piece Graphite Rod with Cork Handle, Accessories, Die Cast Aluminum Reel, Carrying Case, Fly Box Case & Fishing Flies
  • FLY ROD COMPONENTS: Weighing just 2.9 ounces, this well-crafted 7-foot fly fishing rod is made of durable and light IM8 matte black graphite. A high-quality reel seat with lock ring, stainless steel stripper guide with silicon carbide rings and a laser-etched butt cap are also provided. For added grip and comfort, the rod is fitted with a 7 inch-long Western-style cork handle that comes with compressed cork and rubber trim rings.
  • DURABLE FLY REEL: This fly fishing package includes a durable die cast aluminum fly reel with stainless steel internal components. The reel features a 75mm diameter quick release spool, adjustable disc drag and a one-way clutch bearing. As an added bonus, the reel comes preinstalled with chartreuse WF3-F floating fly line, 20 lb orange backing and 7.5-foot 5X tapered monofilament leader. All Wild Water fly reels are easily changeable from left to right hand retrieve.
  • WATERPROOF FLY BOX WITH NINE FLIES: As any angler knows, the key to great fly fishing is having a wide range of flies readily available. The Starter Package includes a 5.25" x 3.5" x 1.25" rugged plastic fly box that can hold up to 372 flies! To get you started, the fly box includes the following flies: - 3x Size 12 Black Winged Ant - 3x Size 12 Tungsten Bead Head Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear Nymph - 3x Size 12 Parachute Adams
  • PROTECTIVE ROD CASE AND REEL BAG: The Wild Water Fly Fishing Starter Package comes with a durable nylon carrying case for travel and storage. The case features a 26.52-inch PVC rod tube, reel pouch, fly box and ample space for any additional fishing gear. A 4-section cloth rod bag with ties is also included. It's the perfect way to pack and store your gear!
  • BEST PLACES TO USE: This fly fishing rod and reel combo package is perfect for fishing in streams, rivers, lakes and ponds. With this well-crafted rod, you can catch trout, panfish or small bass with ease. The rod's medium-fast action will make learning to cast a fly rod a breeze.

Let's divert a little away from spinning and casting rods and let's talk about fly fishing.

This kit comes with everything you'll need to get started fly fishing. It includes a four piece rod, arbor reel, preinstalled line (important), backing, leader, rod sock, case, fly box, flies, and instruction manual. Part of why we featured this on our best fishing rods list is because of the number of extras you get.

You will need every single one of these things to start fly fishing. It's best to purchase them together as a beginner until you understand how to buy everything separately.

The rod is made using graphite, aluminum seating, and stainless steel snake guides. It comes with a lifetime warranty and is a great choice for beginners looking to dive into fly fishing.

M MAXIMUMCATCH Graphite Fly Fishing Rod


Maxcatch Extreme Graphite Fishing Rod 4-Piece 9 Feet with IM7 Carbon Blank, Hard Chromed Guides, A Cork Grip (Size:3/4/5/6/7/8/10wt) (Fishing Combo, 5 wt -9' Half-Handle Rod,5/6 Reel)
  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GO FISHING – this most cost effective fishing combos are designed for new angler to get started right away. Includes a performance 9 ft, 8 weight, 4 pc rod, an aluminum large arbor reel with line, backing and leaders pre-loaded. 12 hand tied lures in a waterproof box, neoprene reel cover, 4 essential tools and a very durable travel case to hold everything. Perfect to start fishing at a budget. And also will be good as a backup combo after you upgraded
  • ONE-YEAR-WARRANTY and LIFETIME Repairing Warranty - MAXCATCH as a 13 years fishing rod factory, offer “No Hassle” warranty for all our rods for one year. If you are not 100% satisfied with our products, you can return it in any time. And we also offer lifetime repairing for Maxcatch rods and reels
  • EXCLUSIVE MAXLINQ ROD TECHNOLOGY – Pure IM7 24T plus 30T carbon fiber. With mixed 5 layers of carbon including Reinforced Muscle carbon layer for at least 20% increase in strength. A fast action design rod blank to excel in distance and presentation. To meet the need of a newer angler, Slim taper engineered to be smooth and powerful, high efficiency loading, all for easy long distance especially for new angler
  • Pre-Loaded ALUMINUM REEL – An aluminum lightweight reel with an extremely smooth disc drag system is included. The reel is pre-spooled with backing, Weight-forward floating line and tapered leader. The reel size matchs with each line weight rod for perfect balance accordingly.
  • Lures,BOX & ROD BAG – A durable but also convenient travel rod bag with reel pouch to hold everything together. Waterproof, Floating Box-5.24’’X3.54’’1.38’’, holds up to 372 lures. Includes 12 pc hand tied dry and wet lures, hook size:#10. A neoprene reel pouch is included for easy protection of the reel. And a zinger, a line nipper, a line cleaner and forceps are included as gifts.

Here we have another fly fishing package that features a fly rod that comes in many different sizes along with leaders, flies, and a carrying bag. The rod is made using 30-ton carbon fiber with 5 layers of carbon to increase the rod strength by at least 20 percent.

It's a fast action rod designed to make casting easier and allow you to get more distance behind your casts. The guides are MaxSelect Stripping Guides made with harm chromed stainless steel for smooth motion of the line and longer casting.

The best fishing rods satisfy the majority of its customers.

Time to Fish

Choosing the best fishing rods for yourself or a family member is no easy task. There is a lot to understand, and it might all seem unnecessary. I assure you, it is necessary if you want to hit the water and catch some fish.

If you are new to fishing and are trying it out, it's best to go with a simple and basic spinning rod. You'll get the most versatility for your money with that style rod.

If you have any questions or comments, be sure to drop us a line below and let us know what you think about these fishing rods. If you have any recommendations for the best fishing rods list, be sure to tell us what your handling.

Last update on 2022-04-30 at 14:04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API