The best fishing rods expert review
Are you ready to take out the catch of the day? We’ve studied today’s market in detail, bought some of the best spinning rods and tested each of them over several weeks to help you make the right choice when choosing your next rod. Our experts tested these rods in a wide variety of conditions, from bays to lakes to rivers. We took detailed notes on how each one performed in parameters such as performance, versatility and portability. Whether you’re looking for superior quality or exceptional value, our hands-on evaluations will help you choose the perfect rod.
To complete your kit, check out our favorite lines, reels and fishing nets. We’ve also tested some great coolers to help you keep your catch fresh. If you’re going camping and planning to cook your catch for dinner, our favorite portable grills will help you get your meal ready in no time.
St. Croix Triumph Travel rods
First place in our review goes to the St. Croix Triumph Travel rod due to its winning combination of versatility, performance and balance. The excellent feel of this rod allowed us to feel the tiniest nibble and easy hooking. This rod throws farther and with more accuracy than other models in our test. It’s also portable: it can be broken into four pieces and packed in a travel case, which is a big plus for those who like to travel with their fishing rods. The cork composition of the handle provided a comfortable feel in the hand and allowed for noticeable balance. Without a doubt, the St. Croix is an unmistakably high quality product.
So what’s the catch? Honestly, we don’t have many complaints about this rod. The disassembly and assembly is certainly not as intuitive as some of the other contenders. Nevertheless, we think this is a fairly minor problem, and the St. Croix Triumph Travel is still a great all-around rod that we recommend.
Features and characteristics
Features
- PREMIUM-CARBON CONSTRUCTION SCIII: The SCIII premium carbon rod combined with the Fortified Resin System (FRS) provides unmatched strength and durability.
- PREMIUM-SERVICE CORNER Grip: Contoured handle provides a secure grip on the rod.
- ADDITIONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Sea Guide Atlas Performance SS304 with black guides; Sea Guide XDPS reel seat with sandblasted shrouds on spinning models; two coats of Flex-Coat slow-cure finish.
- Length – 6’0″; Power – L; Action – fast; Pieces – 1; Line weight – 4-8 pounds; Bait weight – 1/16-5/16 ounces; Fishing rod weight – 2.7 ounces; Handle – 2
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY: St. Croix Superstar Service Guaranteed
Characteristics
| Brand | St. Croix Rods |
|---|---|
| Material | other |
| Color | Deep Run Blue |
| Fishing Technique | Spinning |
| Item Weight | 0.5 Pounds |
| Model Name | St. Croix Rods Triumph Spinning Rod |
| Action | Medium-Heavy/Fast |
| Grip Type | Split |
| Tension Level | Medium-Heavy/Fast |
| Handle Material | Cork |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 36.4 x 8.2 x 5 inches |
| Package Weight | 1.04 Kilograms |
| Brand Name | St. Croix Rods |
| Warranty Description | 5 Year Manufacturer |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Manufacturer | St. Croix Rods |
| Part Number | TSR66MHF4 |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Style | 6’6″ Medium-heavy/Fast 4 Pc. |
| Included Components | Fishing Rod |
| Size | 6’6″ |
About versions of rods
The rod comes in 6 variations:
- Triumph Casting Rod TCR70MF
- Triumph Rod Spinning Rod TSR70MF
- Bass X Casting Rod BAC68MXF
- Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod JIS70MF
- Premier Spinning Rod PS70MHF
- Mojo Bass Casting Rod MJC68MF.
Characteristics of each rod:
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| Rod Material | Premium Quality SCII Carbon Construction | Premium Quality SCII Carbon Construction | High Performance SCII | Premium Quality SCIII Carbon Construction | Premium Quality SCIII Carbon Construction | Premium SCIII Carbon Construction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rod Features | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. |
| Length Power & Action | 7’0″ rod Medium Power/Fast Action | 7’0″ rod Medium Power/Fast Action | 6’8″ rod – Medium Power X-Fast Action | 7’0″ rod -Medium Power, Fast Action | 7’0″ rod – Medium Heavy Power, Fast Action | 6’8″ rod Medium Power Fast Action |
| Performance | Length provides extra feel with medium fast action for lighter baits | Length provides extra feel with medium fast action for lighter baits | Great choice for smaller swim baits and lipped crankbaits | Length provides more feel. Great for Jacks, seatrout, redfish, and more | All Purpose length which heavy fast action for heavier baits | All purpose length, works best with top water techniques |
Ugly Stik Elite rods
If you want a well-built, lightweight rod that’s easy to get to your favorite fishing hole, check out the Ugly Stik Elite. Don’t be fooled by its small size. It’s very sturdy and has impressive fighting power, as has been proven on several occasions when we’ve pulled fish that seemed too big for this rod. This Ugly Stik was versatile enough for a variety of fishing styles, whether we were casting a hook and worm or just casting with a bait. It was also one of the best when it came to balancing, sitting comfortably in our hands all day long.
While the pros were many, there were also a few cons to consider. This rod is a small size, so the throwing range was reduced. This was to be expected because of the size of the rod, but still worth considering if most of your fishing involves casting. It also has a fairly short handle, which makes it a little difficult to work with two hands. Overall, it was a pleasure to use this rod. So, if you need a small rod that can handle the rigors of everyday fishing, you should try the Ugly Stik Elite.
Features and characteristics
Features
- Elite spinning rod with 35% more graphite for exceptional strength and feel
- Virtually indestructible blade construction with a combination of graphite and fiberglass
- Clear Tip design provides added responsiveness and durability
- Cork handles provide comfort during extended fishing
- One-piece stainless steel Ugly Tuff guides prevent pads from popping out and can be used with all line types
Characteristics
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 40 x 2 x 2 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 0.18 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Brand Name | Shakespeare |
| Model Name | USESP602M |
| Color | Multi |
| Material | Blend |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Number of Items | 8 |
| Manufacturer | Pure Fishing |
| Part Number | USESP602M |
| Style | 6′- Medium- 2pcs |
| Included Components | Elite Spinning Rod 6′ |
| Size | 6′ – Medium – 2pc |
| Fishing Technique | Spinning |
| Handle Material | Cork |
| Grip Type | Split |
St. Croix Rods Premier Casting Rod
In terms of sensitivity this rod belongs to the fast action class, so you can count on feeling even the pulls of small perch. As far as power goes, the rod has high power, which allows it to handle even the biggest bass.
The only aspect in which they differ is weight. The St Croix Premier is a bit heavier, so it’s also a bit cheaper than the Abu Garcia Veracity. Those who find the Abu Garcia Veracity too expensive will be happy with this alternative.
- Premium quality SCII carbon.
- Kigan Master Hand 3D guides with slim, strong aluminum-oxide rings and black frames.
- Kigan Master Hand 3D top with SiC ring on musky models.
- Fuji® ECS, TCS or PSS reel seat with frosted silver hood.
- Premium-grade cork handle.
- Kigan hook-keeper.
- Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish.
- 5-year warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.
- Outstanding strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power.
- Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, U.S.A.
| Brand | St. Croix Rods |
| Material | Blend |
| Color | Classic Black Pearl |
| Fishing Technique | Casting |
| Item Weight | 0.01 Ounces |
Features and characteristics
Features
- PREMIUM-CARBON CONSTRUCTION SCII: Premium quality SCII carbon with FRS for unmatched strength and durability
- PREMIUM-SERVICE Cork Grip: Comfortable cork handle provides a secure grip on your rod.
- FEATURES: Kigan Master Hand 3D guides with aluminum oxide rings and black frames; Fuji ECS, TCS or PSS reel saddle with matte silver caps; Kigan hook holder; Outstanding sensitivity and hooking strength.
- TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Length – 6’6″; Power – M; Action – Fast; Pieces – 1; Line weight – 10-17 lbs; Bait weight – 1/4-3/4 oz; Stick weight – 4.2 oz; Handle – 3
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY: St. Croix Superstar Service Guaranteed.
Characteristics
| Brand | St. Croix Rods |
|---|---|
| Material | Blend |
| Color | Classic Black Pearl |
| Fishing Technique | Casting |
| Item Weight | 0.01 Ounces |
| Model Name | St. Croix Rods Premier Casting Rod |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 78 x 3 x 3 inches |
| Action | Medium/Fast |
| Grip Type | Split |
| Tension Level | Medium/Fast |
| Handle Material | Cork |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 77.01 x 1.5 x 0.98 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.09 Kilograms |
| Brand Name | St. Croix Rods |
| Warranty Description | 5 year warranty |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Manufacturer | St. Croix Rod |
| Part Number | PC66MF |
| Style | 6’6″ Medium/Fast 1 Pc. |
| Included Components | Fishing Rod |
| Size | 6’6″ |
| Sport Type | Fishing |
Also has six variations
- Model of a spinning rod Premier PS60MLF2
- Casting rods PremierPS66MLF2
- Spinning rods Premier PS70MLF2
- Spinning rods Avid AVS60ULF2
- Spinning rods Avid AVS66MHF2
- Mojo Bass Spinning Rod MJS68MXF
Characteristics of each rod:
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| Rod Material | High Performance SCII | High Performance SCII | High Performance SCII | High-Modulus SCIII | High-Modulus SCIII | Premium SCIII Carbon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rod Features | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power | Incredibly light, super sensitive and durable. | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power | Strength, Sensitivity and Hook-Setting Power |
| Length Power & Action | 6′ rod – Medium Power Fast Action | 6’6″ rod Medium Light Power Fast Action | 7′ rod – Medium Light Power Fast Action | 6′ rod Ultra-Light Power Fast Action | 6’6″ rod Medium Heavy Power Fast Action | 6’8″ Medium Power Extra Fast Action |
| Performance | All-purpose 2-piece medium fast action spinning rod | All-purpose 2-piece medium light fast action casting rod | All-purpose 2-piece medium light fast action spinning rod | Specialized 2-piece ultra-light fast action spinning rod | Specialized 2-piece medium-heavy fast action spinning rod | All purpose length, works best with top water techniques |
IMX PRO BLUE CASTING
The relentless nature of the coastal environment is home to many trophy commercial fish. Whether you’re casting a topwater troll for bluefish, casting a mullet on a circle hook to catch tarpon, or sinking crabs on rocks to catch black drum or red drum, you’ll need tough tackle. The IMX-PRO BLUE collection has the same toughness and character as the saltwater anglers it’s designed for. The variety of action in the IMX-PRO BLUE line allows inshore crusaders to stay ready for any inshore situation. While this variety allows anglers to adjust their setups to their preferred techniques, each rod in the collection has a sturdy, high-modulus graphite rod that can withstand the brute force of a splash of albies in the surf or a large cobia devouring a drifting eel. Lightweight and powerful, the IMX-PRO BLUE rod pushes the limits of performance in one of the toughest fishing zones in the country.
Features and characteristics
Features
- All IMX-PRO Blue line rods feature fully cork front and back handles, Fuji reel seats and new rugged Fuji Fazlite K-Frame guides designed for use with braided line and saltwater corrosion resistance. MSRP ranges from $350 to $385. All G. Loomis rods are handmade in Woodland, WA, USA.
Characteristics
| Brand | G. Loomis |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Fishing Technique | Casting |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 86 x 3 x 3 inches |
| Action | Fast |
| Grip Type | Split |
| Tension Level | high |
| Handle Material | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 90 x 4 x 4 inches |
| Package Weight | 1 Pounds |
| Brand Name | G. Loomis |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | G.Loomis |
Also have 7 variations
| MODEL | LENGTH | POWER | ACTION | PIECES | LINE (LB) | LURE (OZ) | HANDLE | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IMX-PRO BLUE 843C MF | 7’0″ | Medium | Moderate Fast | 1 | 15-50 | – | A | $405.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 845C M | 7’0″ | Heavy | Moderate | 1 | 30-80 | – | B | $420.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 863C XF | 7’2″ | Medium | Extra Fast | 1 | 15-50 | – | A | $405.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 903C M | 7’6″ | Medium | Moderate | 1 | 15-50 | – | C | $440.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 904C MF | 7’6″ | Medium Heavy | Moderate Fast | 1 | 20-65 | – | D | $440.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 905C M | 7’6″ | Heavy | Moderate | 1 | 30-80 | – | D | $440.00 |
| IMX-PRO BLUE 933C F | 7’9 | Medium | Fast | 1 | 15-50 | – | B | $450.00 |
KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Kingswell telescoping rod is made of 24/30 high-modulus graphite carbon. In addition to the standard fixed guide lugs, it features “floating guides” that are adjustable to increase casting range while maintaining a compact profile when folded.
Kingswell S3000 Fishing Reel
Kingswell telescopic rod and reel kits combine with our S3000 reel. It features an aluminum reel and has a 15lb pulling force with stainless steel ball bearings for a smoother release when tackling big fish. The reel can be switched for both right-handed and left-handed use.
Have you ever come to a beautiful place with a lake and wished you had a fishing rod? The 5’7″ and 6’9″ models are designed with portability in mind. Both rods fit in a standard 21.7″ x 13.7″ bag, allowing you to fish anywhere a fish bites.
The telescopic rod is designed to be a versatile travel rod. Our 6’9″ and 5’7″ rods fold down to 22″ and 19″ respectively, making them portable and easy to carry. Both rods have a medium stiffness profile that provides the sturdy base needed when tackling big fish and a sensitive tip for fishing crankbaits, worms and spinnerbaits. The rod features a natural wood handle, an EVA foam grip, and a removable butt cap. The rod and reel comes complete with our S3000 5+1 stainless steel spinning reel with ball bearing. (line not included)
Features and characteristics
Features
- All in one travel kit. Includes 6.80 ft telescopic rod, 3000 size spinning fishing reel. The carrying bag and fishing line are not included.
- Telescopic rod. Kingswell 6.80ft (6ft 9in) telescopic fishing rod is fully unfolded and made of Japanese 24/30 ultra-high density carbon fiber. It folds down to 22 inches, making it easy to transport and store. It can handle casting baits or weights up to 1.5 ounces.
- Spinning Reel S3000. The Kingswell S3000 reel has an aluminum body, 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings and a gear ratio of 5.2:1. The handle can be changed between left and right hand. The reel is capable of holding up to 15 pounds. Ideal for fishing for large trout, bass, salmon, yellowtail.
- Floating Guide System. Improve your casting with our floating guide system. This telescopic rod has 5 fixed and 2 floating guides, which reduces line friction when casting, allowing you to achieve maximum casting distance.
- Easy assembly. There are markings on each section and rod guide that aligns each rod guide and section, making it easy to assemble.
Characteristics
| Brand | KINGSWELL |
|---|---|
| Color | Rod / Reel |
| Material | Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Graphite, Carbon Fiber |
| Fishing Technique | Casting, Spinning |
| Model Name | 609MHRR |
| Gearbox Ratio | 5.2 |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Fishing Line Type | Monofilament |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 24 x 5.5 x 5 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.64 Kilograms |
| Brand Name | KINGSWELL |
| Manufacturer | Kingswell |
| Part Number | 609MHRR |
In conclusion
When selecting a fishing rod, it is important to consider the type of fishing you plan to do. For example, if you plan to fish in freshwater for small trout, a lightweight and flexible rod may be best. However, if you plan to fish in saltwater for larger game fish, a stronger and more sturdy rod may be necessary.
The material of the fishing rod is also a crucial factor to consider. Fiberglass and graphite are the two most commonly used materials in fishing rods. Fiberglass rods are more affordable and durable, making them a great choice for beginners. On the other hand, graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, providing a more precise feel while fishing.
Finally, the design of the fishing rod, including the length, power, and action, can greatly impact the performance of the rod. Longer rods can cast farther and provide more leverage when reeling in larger fish, while shorter rods offer greater precision in smaller bodies of water. The power of the rod refers to its strength and ability to handle heavier fish, while the action determines how quickly the rod bends and rebounds.
In conclusion, selecting the right fishing rod can greatly enhance your fishing experience. By considering factors such as the type of fish you plan to catch, the material of the rod, and the design, you can find a high-quality fishing rod that meets your needs and helps you catch more fish.
