Best Fishing Rods Buying Guide

[Cover] Best Fishing Rods

Are you waiting to go fishing with your kids ever since you stopped going with your father when you were young? Have you got all the necessary utilities you ever wanted to go fishing? Don’t you want to experience the boundless joy of catching a fish? More than 49 million Americans tried out saltwater, freshwater of fly fishing in 2017.

A fishing rod is all you need to get started.

Quintessentially, people used nothing but a stick with a rope and a hook tied to it to catch a fish. It made the angle, it had what you needed, just that, now you want extra comfort and an easy catch. You need to consider factors like angle, type of rod, location, rod holder, knobs, and eyelets.

Fishing is an exercise for men, women, and children to engage in catching a fish. While it remains more popular among the older generation, it’s fast cathing up with young people as well. It makes them train their bodies to have strength and precision required to catch a fish. You have to make use of your muscles of the shoulders, back, arms, core, and legs to reel the fish in.

One of the best ways of working out in the open sun, faced by the seawater, is by fishing. You can spend your weekends trying to ease your mind, get over your stressful workplace situations, and enjoy your day at the fishing spot with your loved ones.

If you love fishing, are a fisherman, or if fishing runs in your veins, you don’t travel to the same location to catch the fish. Instead, you go to different locations to catch hold of newer and different varieties of fishes. And, if your friends and family or your kids accompany you, you could have a good hike day.

The Best Fishing Rods For 2020

If you give a man a fish, it will suffice his appetite for a day, but if you teach him how to fish with a fishing rod, that too with the best fishing rod, it will suffice his appetite for all his life. Here are some of the best fishing rods of 2020, which will be perfect for your fishing experience.

#1 – Ugly Stik Elite Fishing Rod

Ugly Stik® Elite Spinning Rod
  • Line Rating 8 17 pounds
  • Ugly Tech Construction with added graphite for lighter weight and increased sensitivity
  • Ugly Tuff one piece stainless steel guides provide maximum durability

The ugly Stik Elite fishing rod comes in a varying number of sizes, right from 4’6” to 7’6”. Use it when you want to cast light lures such as plastics and live baits.

It consists of a spinning reel that is easy to operate and you can use it for almost any fishing technique that you know of.

There is added graphite for lighter weight. The higher sensitivity makes it easier to catch the bait. The one-piece stainless steel offer maximum durability.

The cork handles, made of carbon fiber, provide comfort during lengthy fishing outings that you have planned with your kids or your friends from different towns.

Some users report that they have caught trout from less than a pound to 28 pounds salmon to European cats that weigh 100 pounds.

Pros:

  • Reel seat that you will love to try
  • Ultra-light to handle
  • Sturdy design that is sure to last long.
  • Users love the efficient cork handle design

Cons:

  • Look for the correct balance
  • Quality of the steel isn’t that great, some users report

#2 – Sougayilang Fishing Rod

Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole Spinning Reels Fishing Carrier Bag for Travel Saltwater Freshwater...
  • Fishing rod reel combos with carrier bag and nessary accessories for fishing,include: One carbon fiber telescopic...
  • The Rod:high density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass make the fishing pole hard & durable,the hard and Light Weight...
  • The Reel: This reel has 13 + 1 corrosion resistant smooth ball bearings, precision matched gears and a powerful 5.5:1...

This Sougayilang fishing rod here can easily capture your baits and can woo your targets without any trace of hints. This comes with a combination of 1 carbon fiber telescopic fishing rod, one fishing reel, one carrier bag, three fishing lures, fishing line, and some more accessories.

You can choose it in three different sizes- 5.91 ft, 6.89 ft, and 7.87 ft. The pole is hard and durable. The hard and light-weight guide ring is made of ceramic, so the heat dissipation is better.

The fishing reel has 13+1 corrosion-resistant and smooth-ball bearings. You will love the powerful gear ratio of 5:5:1, which gives the fishing rod an ultra-smooth performance.

The aluminum spool of this has honeycomb design, which gives you strength and is quite light in weight to carry. The EVA Knob makes it easy and comfortable to fish for a long time.

It is best suited for freshwater bass trout salmon, river lake reservoir pond, or inshore fishing. You will end up making some of the most lasting memories with your kids or loved ones.

Pros:

  • Seal-proof and dust-proof bearings
  • High-quality guide ring
  • Light-weight CNC aluminum spool
  • Premium-quality inner parts

Cons:

  • Check for the reel quality
  • The crank handle may break off
  • May not last longer
  • The rod may just fall apart

#3 – Ugly Stik GX2 Casting Fishing Rod

This light rod  offers the balance and sensitivity you are looking for. Built from graphite and fiberglass, it is the next generation fishing rod that you need. It’s heritage and tradition of the previous model combined with the strength and durability of the new one.

You will love the better balance, improved components, and eye-catching cosmetics for a modern look. Weighing just 7.2 pounds, it’s one of the better options for you out there.

There are EVA foam grips to ensure tight hold, and it will not let your hand slip when wet. The clear tip design offers extra strength, ensuring you know about the lightest catch.

Some users report it is quite cost-effective, light to handle, and quite sensitive. Some even say that it a better reel seat and a larger handle than a 6-foot model.

Pros:

  • Strong yet sensitive
  • Lighter feel
  • Durable and light-weight EVA grips
  • Suited perfectly for baitcasting

Cons:

  • Rod may snap while you are fishing
  • Guide rods may develop grooves
  • The package may come with defects
  • You may not receive all the parts

#4 – Plusinno Fishing Rod

PLUSINNO Spinning Rod and Reel Combos Telescopic Fishing Rod Pole with Reel Line Lures Hooks Fishing Carrier Bag Case and Accessories Fishing...
  • Fishing kit INCLUDES 1 FISHING ROD + 1 FISHING REEL + VARIOUS FISHING LURES + FISHING HOOKS + FISHING LINE + FISHING BAG...
  • Full kit is special made for novice, including nessary accessories for fishing. You can use it without buying any other...
  • Perfect elasticity, high density Carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass make your fishing pole hard & durable. Stainless...

This Plusinno is a perfect mixture of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass. It makes your fishing pole hard and durable. The stainless-steel hooded reel of this fishing rod is anti-seawater corrosion.

There are power drive gears quipped for high strength and a deep aluminum spool for double color and one-line hole. It has a short body with large spool and large line capacity.

Plus, you get EVA foregrips for extra comfort. You can carry this telescopic fishing rod for sea fishing and boat fishing. If you buy this, you get a full kit with a carrying case, which includes- carrier bag, fishing rod, fishing reel, fishing line, and fishing lures.

Pros:

  • Strong and durable
  • Light in weight to carry
  • Great value for money
  • Thick coiled bail spring

Cons:

  • The reel may get stiff after some use
  • The rod may snap off
  • The grip of the handle may be uncomfortable
  • Some users think it’s a waste of money

#5 – Fishoaky Fishing Rod

Telescopic Fishing Rod Set,FishOaky Spinning Fishing Gear Organizer Pole Sets with Full Kits Lure Case and Carry Bag for Saltwater &Freshwater...
  • 🐟【Fishing Pole Full Kit】FISHOAKY fishing rod and reel combo spinning is designed for novice especially, including...
  • 🐟【Telescopic Fishing Rod】FISHOAKY telescoping fishing poles for men which is made with a graphite composite blank...
  • 🐟【Lightweight & Portable】 FISHOAKY fishing rod & reel combos come with a lightweight portable carrier bag, which...

This Fishoaky fishing rod here is designed for newcomers at fishing, so they are given all the accessories they need. With this fishing rod, you also get spinning fishing reel, fishing line, fishing (lightweight, portable carrier) bag, various fishing lures/baits, and fishing hooks.

This product is the makeup of a graphite composite blank for a lightweight feel, and it is corrosion-resistant. The handle and butt of this enable comfort and control while you fish.

Choose between three sizes – 5.9 ft, 6.89 ft, and 7.87 ft. The fishing reel has sealed water-proof and dust-proof bearings. It has an S-curve oscillation system for excellent line winding.

You can easily fit this in your car trunk or backpack and have the time of your life fishing with your kids or loved ones. You and your kids can get in touch with nature. For your kids, it will help build patience, confidence, and discipline.

Pros:

  • Super portable, easy to carry
  • Made from high-quality material
  • Hard and durable
  • Smooth fishing reel for your needs

Cons:

  • Check for accessories upon arrival
  • At your first try, it may snap
  • Some users say it’s a kid’s toy
  • The reel may be broken

#6 – Zebco Dock Demon Fishing Rod

Zebco Dock Demon Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
  • Durable Solid-Core 30-inch Z-Glass Rod
  • Comfortable EVA Handle
  • Pre-spooled with 6-lb line

This Zebco Dock Demon fishing rod comes with a spinning reel. Love it for the durable solid core. Or, the length, a good 30 inches. The fishing rod sports comfortable EVA handle grips. There is also a ball bearing drive, which is changeable from left to the right hand. Wondering how much is good to go with this one? The line capacity of this is up to 135 years or 6 pounds mono.

Where should you use this?

This Z-Glass is perfect for the docks. It is paired with a right-sized spinning reel that will help you haul in fish after fish. It does not come with a hook. The fishing reel can be set to run one way or both ways as desired.

You will love to use it, whether you are a kid or an adult. Use this for everything from kayak fishing to freshwater fishing. The cherry on the cake? Some users report this is unbreakable while offering a fantastic design.

Pros:

  • High-quality
  • Great for your kids
  • Sturdy
  • Cost-effective for your pocket

Cons:

  • The fishing reel may not be good
  • The fishing line may break
  • Easy tangling of the fishing line
  • Some users report upon bending, it may break

#7 – KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod

KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods, Spinning Rod 7ft - Medium and Medium Heavy - Fast - Twin-tip Rod (2Tips+1 Butt Section)
  • Amazing Quality Carbon Fiber Blank - All Perigee II two-piece fishing rods are constructed with Toray 24-ton carbon...
  • Preminm Components - KastKing uses the best quality components in a Perigee II fishing rod. World renowned Fuji O-Ring...
  • Smooth Power - KastKing PTS (Power Transition System) hybrid spigot joints in Perigee II 2-pcs rods transition power...

The KastKing Perigee II comes in a varying number of sizes, suitable for all. You will get one that fits in to your hands, whether you are child or an adult – which makes this a complete family choice. Love it for theFuji O-Ring line guides, or the ergonomic reel seats. If you are a beginner, you will love the  high-density EVA grips.

Now, there are some fishing rods that only experts are good at. When it comes to this piece from KastKing, you don’t have to worry. For one, there is the Saf-T-Keeper hook holder that make it easier to catch fish. Add to it the sensitive carbon fiber, and outstanding cosmetics.

There are specialized computer control wrapping at four angles that keep the power flowing. You have a variety of choices to make when you decide on buying this product, and it’s this range of choices that makes it a good buy.

Some users say it has the quality and action equal to the pennies they have invested in the fishing rod. You will love the excellent and quick action, which is light in weight.

It’s the perfect one for saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, kayak fishing, bass fishing, trout fishing, and many other species.

Pro:

  • Light-weight, just as you would want
  • Known for its quick action
  • Affordable to the wallet
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Quality may vary upon arrival of the product
  • Some users say the product is quite fragile
  • May snap
  • It may not last long

How To Choose A Fishing Rod?

In case you are planning to hunt for a fishing rod for your fishing experience here’s a list of things that you must look for before buying one:   

Choosing one of the best is one of the most important factors in your fishing experience. You need to place the bait at the right location without troubling any fish, else if you do, you might or might not get bites in return. If you use the wrong one, you will not be able to cast as far accurately as possible.

If you use the right fishing rod, you will be able to cast on a dime, work your bait the way it was supposed to. And the one which will produce you more bites, catches, and fun! Here’s a questionnaire that will help you buy the right kind of fishing rod you need:

How good is the rod action?

The action of a fishing rod can be influenced by whether the rod is one-piece, two-piece, telescopic, or a travel rod made up of multiple pieces. For a one-piece rod, the action is ultimate. Most of the fishing rods have progressive tapering from butt to tip to allow for an even rod action. The type of bait you will use will determine the action of the rod you should use.

How long is the rod taper, and what is the length of the fishing rod?

The rod taper and length play a significant role in the action of the fishing rod. The method you will be using to catch your target fish will help determine the type of fishing rod you need. A long thin, light-weight rod will be suitable for smaller species. A short solid rod will be ideal for bigger species. Rods that are in between are suitable for multipurpose action, offering the right balance between action and power.

How good is graphite make up for your fishing rod?

Graphite is the most common material used in building fishing rods. It was introduced in the 70s by Fenwick. To make the graphite, you need temperatures that exceed beyond 3000 degrees, sometimes! The more the degree of temperature, the more will be the cost. The fishing rods are the ones that have different layers of graphite and fiberglass.

How is the power of the fishing rod?

Power here refers to the strength you need to make your fishing rod bend. A fishing rod with more power (weight or taper) will bend easier. The type of water you are fishing will determine the power of the fishing rod you should select. Thick heavy water, for instance, will require a strong fishing rod to get the fish out before it can tie you up. Clear, open water will often require thin, meaning you will need a lighter power fishing rod.

How good are the guides of the fishing rod?

Most of the guides on the fishing rods have a metal frame and a ceramic ring that the line glides on. The price of this ring on every guide differs from a fishing rod to a fishing rod. A fishing rod with more guides on it will generally cast better and cost more than the same ones with a fewer number of guides.

Finding the Best Fishing Pod

When it comes to fishing rods, you need to keep several things in mind. You must get what you pay for is the first thing, and selecting a good fishing rod can be a bewildering experience for a newcomer, but if you never fish, you will never know the experience. So, before you choose a fishing rod, make sure you know the type of the rod, the type of waters you would be treading on, the type of angler, and the money you will be spending on it. Make sure you choose the best among the rest.

Sources:

James S. Hankins

James is an expert fisherman who was lucky enough to spend much of her childhood chasing salmon, trout and sea trout..Have a question, need some help, or want to give your opinion? Drop us a comment below!

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