It is true that you don’t need to be a seasoned angler to enjoy fishing, but without the right equipment, the chances of you getting far are minimal. The choice of equipment majorly depends on the purpose to which it is to be put, and the choice of a fishing rod is not different. Of course, you will need to have a clear definition of where you will be fishing, the type of fish you’re hunting and, therefore, the fishing baits that you’ll be using.
So, how exactly should you go about buying a new fishing rod?
Making an informed fishing rod purchase would require you to know everything about fishing rods, and if you think you are running short on this, then you are in the right place. In this post, you will learn about the components of a fishing rod, types of rods, the ultimate fishing rod buying guide, and effective maintenance tips. To sum it up, we shall review top fishing rods to help you land the best fishing rod.
Parts of a Fishing Rod
While many fishing rods come in different designs and shapes, some components cut across the board. The following are the main parts of a fishing rod.
- Handle – Also known as the grip; this is the part of the rod that is held by the hand. It is mostly made of wood, cork or foam and can either be glued on or constructed through.
- Reel Seat – this is the part of the rod where the reel attaches to the pole. It can be made of graphite or plastic with the sole function of preventing wobble or play of the reel while reeling in a fish.
- Ferrules – if you notice a part of your fishing rod that requires assembly, then that is the Ferrules.
- Guides – from the name, you can tell that this part of the fishing rod is used to control the fishing line. They are circular and made of ceramic, plastic or metal depending on the expected friction. The location of the guides on a rod depends on the type of reel used. Spinning rods have their guides at the bottom while casting rod have their guides on top of the rod. Also, the number of guides will depend on the length of the rod.
What to Look for When Buying the Best Fishing Rod
Enjoying your fishing and getting the catch that you desire will take more than just picking the next fishing rode you come across. But what are the features of a good fishing rod that help with bite detection? There is no doubt this calls for precision when you go out shopping for one, and like we tell anglers who ask us these question, the best choice can be narrowed down to length, power, and action of the rod.
Length
The length of the fishing rod is the first feature that you identify when you are out shopping. Most rods have lengths ranging from 4 to 14 feet with bass fishing rods ranging between 6 and 8 feet. The rule of the thumb about the length of the fishing rod is that the longer the rod, the longer the cast distance will be.
What does this mean? Depending on where you will be fishing and your type of fishing, you will need to choose a rod that casts the desired distance. The short rods are ideal for casting shorter distances, and since they are resistant to bend and stretch, they give the angler an upper hand when fighting a fish. So, if you are a kayak angler or fishing in places where space is limited, a short fishing rod would be the best pick for you.
On the other hand, long fishing rods are perfect for long distance casting. This means that you can use them where you have a large surface area of water and can be used with walking lures, and other baits that work best for power fishing. Saltwater anglers, as well as bass anglers, prefer this type of fishing rod since they need to cover water quickly.
Power
Power, when talking about a fishing rod implies the much it takes to bend it. Also referred to as weight or taper, the power of the rod is an essential feature to consider vis-à-vis the type of fish you will be hunting. Bear in mind that the more power a rod has, the less likely it will bend since it has a stiff backbone.
When you think of it in perspective, this will contribute to how well your baits will work since with more power; you can quickly detect a bite. Also, if you are fishing the big fishes like bass, then you will need power. Otherwise, a light rod would be ideal for fishing trout and panfish while a moderate power rod can work well with lures like jerk baits, spinnerbaits or crankbaits. You don’t need a lot of power to detect a bite.
Construction
Why do you think the material used to make a fishing rod is a relevant consideration when buying one? It all refers back to the power of the rod. This is of course besides the fact that the stronger the material, the more resistant it will be to abrasion and would, therefore, be durable. Most rods are made of graphite or fiberglass, or a blend of the two.
Graphite rods are light and stiff but are brittle making them easy to break. The good thing behind these features is that you can quickly detect a bite with a graphite fishing rod compared to its fiberglass counterpart. When looking for flexibility and better resistance to breaking, the heavier fiberglass fishing rods take the lead. A fishing rod made of a blend of the two materials would make the best all round fishing rod, especially for anglers who fish in different conditions and locations.
Action
The best definition of action as far as fishing rods are concerned would be the point at which they bend. Action can either be slow or fast. A slow action rod bends closer to the handle, and one with fast action bends closer to the tip. As you may have noticed already, the action of the fishing rod has something to do with its stiffness and therefore power.
Faster action fishing rods offer better fighting abilities when fishing a big fish and are the best when using a single hook that requires a stronger and sturdier hookset. That is why they are ideal for bass fishing.Slow action fishing rod will give you the thrill when fighting a fish and are perfect for use with moving baits.
The Grip
The final item on the consideration list is the handle of the fishing rod. While it is true that the choice of the handle will depend on personal preferences, you will need to think about the type of fishing also. Longer handles allow you to use both hands which gives you strength for the fish fight and long-distance casting. She short handles will be the best choice if you will be casting shorter distances.
Types of Fishing Rods
After covering the parts of a fishing rod and what you need to look for when you go shopping, it is time we looked at the different types of fishing rods that you will meet in the market. The choice of the right type of rod here will depend on the answer to the question: How will you be fishing?
Baitcasting Rods
The first type of fishing rods is the baitcasting rods. Among the things that make them the first choice for many fishers is the better accuracy that they offer as well as control when fighting a fish out of the water. 
Also, they come with more versatility compared to other which also require experience for handling making them ideal for the seasoned anglers.
While this may seem like sidelining amateurs, the truth is that a small mistake in handling the baitcasting rod may turn you off mostly because of tangling on the spool, something commonly referred to as the bird’s nest.
Spinning Rods
The most common alternative to the baitcasting fishing rod is the spinning rod. They are the type that you are likely to find everyone using it regardless of the level of experience because of their ease of use. 
They come with the spinning reel fitted at the bottom with the guides also on the same side of the rod. This makes them ideal for bait fishing and lure casting.
You can use this type of fishing rod to catch a wide range of medium to small-sized fish whether using a boat or a kayak to fish. Also, you don’t have to worry about tangling since it is not as prone as it is with the baitcasting rods which is why a spinning rod is considered the best beginner fishing rod.
Surf Rods
Like you can tell from the name, surf rods are designed to be used in surf fishing. Their length makes them ideal for that job, and they give you the chance to find fish in the rocks as well as in their hiding or feeding grounds. 
The type of reels used in the surf rods are the big eggbeater reels to not only tackle big fish but also withstand waves when pulling your catch out of the water. Since they are the longest of all fishing rods, carrying surf rods can be tricky that is why can be dismantled and assembled easily.
Fly Fishing Rods
Have you heard of fly fishing? No? Fly fishing is an overly different kind of fishing that brings out the whole concept of hunting in fishing more vividly. 
You need to make sure that you have not only patience but also stealth, not to mention a couple of other skills. The main lures used are flies that mimic the fish food.
With the brief description of fly fishing, fly rods are explicitly used for this kind of fishing and come fitted with fly reels. The good thing about these rods is that you can use it to fish virtually all fish species, in lakes and streams.
Overhead Rods
You will notice quite a number of similarities between these rods and the casting rods. They are the made for boat fishing and work with overhead reels. The difference they have from casting rods is that they are a bit stronger and more powerful to fight the big fish when deep-sea fishing. Also, using the rod is easy since you only need to drop in the water and wait for the bite detection. You don’t have to cast.
Telescopic Rods
If you are worried that your fishing rod will eat up a lot of space in your car or your storage room, then the telescopic rod may be ideal for you. 
They are designed to be carried easily especially by the anglers who are always on the road and cannot afford to reserve space for the whole length fishing rod. In the past, these rods were flimsy and easy to break, but tech advancements have come a long way to make them sturdy and reliable. What’s more, you can catch up to medium-sized fish.
Review of the Top 10 Best Fishing Rods
Comparison Table – 1
1. Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods
The first impressive thing you will notice in the Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning rods is the attention given to the construction to ensure that your equipment will last for a long time. It is made of 30-tone graphite with the guides made of stainless steel. These among other superior components make this fishing rod a worthy consideration when you go shopping.
To make things better, this rod is designed to work for you in many occasions and can be used for fishing a variety of fish species and is considered one of the best bass fishing rod. It will not be fair to complete this review without mentioning the affordability of the rod when you think about what it offers compared to others in its category.
What we like:
- Superior metals used in the construction
- Can be used for fishing different kinds of fish
- Pocket-friendly price tag
- Great action and sensitive
- Comfortable design
- Lightweight
What we didn’t like:
- Users complained of breaking
2. KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods
When you think that your experience is somewhere at the top of the scale on matters fishing, then the rod you want to use if the Pedigree II from Kastking. Kastking is one of the best fishing rod brands with many years of good reputation among anglers. This rod comes with a long list of impressive features, and the attention to detail is just remarkable. Also, the quality construction of the Perigee II fishing rod is one of the factors that tell you that you can count on the rod for a long time to come.
What we like:
- High quality construction
- Attention to detail making it comfortable to use
- Comes with power transition design for smooth casting
- Impressive design
- The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty
What we didn’t like:
- Might require a little more experience to operate
- Some users complained of the tip shattering
3. Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly Rod
Versatility should be another name for the Tailwater Outfitters Toccoa Fly rod because what it offers is beyond expectation. This 8’4” long rod makes one of the best fly rod for bass fishing featuring a solid build and high performance and accuracy. Since fly rods are too long to fit almost everywhere, you can dismantle this rod to make it easy to travel with and has alignment dots for easy and quick set up when you are ready.
When it comes to the guides, the part that undergoes a lot of beating, the manufacturer used ceramic for durability and chrome to allow the line to freely and smoothly glide when you pull your trophy out of the water.
What we like:
- Sturdy reel attachment made of aluminum
- Travel-friendly with alignment dots for easy setup
- Offers accuracy and top performance
- Ceramic guides for durability
- Fast action
- Quality design
- Offers value for money
What we didn’t like:
- Can get wobbly when using
4. Tica UGSA Series Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
The UGSA series of fishing rods from TICA has shown to be nothing less than solid fishing rods that can be used by anyone regardless of the angling experience. The first thing about them is the sturdy construction which features the high quality TC3 graphite material. But that is not all. They come with a FUJI alconite tip guide that prevents breaking like is the case with many other graphite-made fishing rods.
When it comes to handling, you won’t have to worry about slipping since the handle is made comfortable and slip-free. Also, the power of the rod is just enough for casting and fishing the big species without worry.
What we like:
- Impressive power
- Comfortable and slip-free grip
- Ideal for fishing all kinds of fish
- Quality guides for durability
- Sturdy build with superior materials
- Lightweight
What we didn’t like:
- It is a little pricey
- Some users found it too long to use in kayak fishing
5. Okuma Scott Martin
If you have been in the fishing game for a while, then Okuma should not be a new band name to you. This stylish fishing rod maker is known to be among the top players in the industry, and their Scott Martin Tournament Concept rods are proof of the same. Okay, you will be right to start frown at the price of these rods but before you scroll down, here is why the rods offer a lot.
These rods come with a specific design for the respective tournament application making them ideal for the purpose. They are made of 30-ton carbon which gives them the black color and the sensitivity to a bite is nothing you want to miss in your fishing rod. Whether you choose spinning or casting reels, a tournament fishing rod from this manufacturer will work just fine with sturdy reel seats. Better yet, the guides are made of the strong aluminum oxide metals for durability.
What we like:
- Sturdy construction for durability
- Designed for specific tournament
- Guides made of a sturdy aluminum oxide
- Highly sensitive
- Customized carbon seats for spinning and casting
- Quality design and comfortable handling
What we didn’t like:
- Pricey compared to others in the same category
- Some users complained of breaking
Comparison Table – 2
6. Fenwick AETOS Fly Rod
Fly fishing? This type of fishing requires skill, and if you have checked that part of the requirements, then the next you need is an excellent and quality fly fishing rod that will work for you. The AETOS fly rod from Fenwick is one of the most used fly fishing rods, and the reason is simple – reliability. This rod has taken performance to a whole new level with fast action and detection of a bite.
When it comes to the construction, the AETOS is made of durable materials with the reel seat featuring an anodized aluminum. Like all fly-fishing rods, this one can be dismantled for comfortable carriage and storage. Better yet, setting it up is no big deal with the help of a guideline.
What we like:
- Stylish design
- Can be dismantled for storage and travel
- Strong guides
- High performance and action
- Powerful and highly sensitive rod
- Smooth casting
What we don’t like:
- A little pricey
- Couldn’t cast a longer loop
7. Redington Classic Trout
Customer service, value for money and intricate design are among the qualities that make the Classic Trout fishing rod from Redington one of the top choices for many anglers. The rod comes with impressive functionality and power making it ideal for catching the big fish species. Since the rod is quite long, you can easily dismantle it and set it up quickly with the alignment dots.
On top of that, you get customized reel seat components, and the titanium-made guides are meant to last long. What the manufacturer offers in addition to a wonderful piece of equipment is a lifetime warranty. This tells you just how much Redington is confident in its production.
What we like:
- Easy to dismantle
- Lifetime warranty
- Long and smooth casting
- Lightweight
- Great action and power
What we don’t like:
- Some users found it to be flimsy
8. DRAGONtail Tenkara
When compared to most other fly fishing rods in its class the Shadowfire 12’ Tenkara rod takes the lead in the quality scale. It is made of IM 10 graphite which offers strength and lightweight at the same time. Another impressive thing about this rod is its simplicity both in use and setting it up. In fact, you can have it ready in under three minutes thanks to the alignment dots.
With a 6:4 action ratio, this rod gives you an upper hand when fighting your catch out of the water. Also, its power can be used to catch considerably sized fish.
What we like:
- Easy to carry around
- Impressive action
- Takes a short time to set up
- Simple to operate
- Strong and lightweight
- High quality construction
What we didn’t like:
- Some users complained of it breaking
9. KastKing Speed Demon Pro Bass Fishing Rod
The other Kastking production that has made to our list of the top fishing rods is the Speed Demon Pro. It is made of the elite carbon and features Nano Resin technology making it the perfect pick for tournaments. These make the rod lightweight and powerful up to 30% more than what the regular graphite rods offer. These make them one of the best inshore fishing rods. Also, in the construction topic, the guides are made of Fuji to ensure durability, and the reel seat is made of steel.
The handle is golf styled to give a good grip when fishing. What’s more, these rods are designed to match an anglers experience by altering the action and lengths. This makes them one of the best inshore fishing rods. Therefore, if you are looking to join the tournament, then the Speed Demon Pro is your ideal pick.
What we like:
- Elite carbon is lightweight and strong
- Fuji guides for durability
- Actions and lengths designed for different levels of experience
- Top performance
- Steel reel seats for proper fitting
What we don’t like:
- Nothing
10. St Croix Premier
The last on the list if the Premier Spinning Rod from St Croix. The place of this rod on the list has nothing to do with its performance, and as the name suggests, it is a premier fishing rod. This is one of the best spinning rods for bass fishing. The best part? It is economical for many anglers with a budget of under $150.
This rod comes with just the right measure of every feature from weight to power and everything else. The very features you need in the best saltwater fishing rods. Durability is nothing to doubt given the reputation the manufacturer has in the market. So, if you are looking for a reliable spinning rod, then this is the way to look.
What we like:
- Highly sensitive to bites
- Quality construction and durable
- Not as expensive as many in its class
- Comfortable handle
- Powerful for big fishing fish
What we don’t like:
- The foam grip can be slippery
Fishing Rods Maintenance Tips
If you need to get the best out of any equipment, then you need a maintenance regimen to keep it in shape, and a fishing rod is no different. Many anglers tend to forget to maintain their fishing rods when taking care of all other fishing tools. To help you care for your rod, be sure to use the following tips from our experienced anglers.
Clean the Handle
When the handle of your rod feels sticky, it is an indication that there is a load of dirt accumulated which need removing. The comfort of using a rod starts from the handle making cleaning a necessity. You can use rubbing alcohol and a towel to get all the dirt out. Also, you want to clean the handle right after buying it since most of them come with a lot of dirt.
Clean the guides
It is correct to say that guides go through a beating, probably more than most other parts of the fishing rod. After a while of using the rod, it is possible for stuff to build up in the guides which only increase resistance to the action of the line. Cleaning the guides not only makes them work efficiently but also saves you the cost of replacing the fishing line now and then.
Proper Storage
The other thing you need to consider is the appropriate storage of the rods when not in use. Be sure to use the rod sleeves to prevent tangling. Also, it is advisable that you store your rods in a vertical position. This prevents damages resulting from being stepped on. Besides, you don’t want to have your rods in a hot environment like in the truck since the heat affects their construction and may end up destroying them with time.
Final Verdict
Of the ten fishing rods that made it to the top 10 list of the most preferred rods for anglers, our fishing experts narrowed down the selection to the two best among them the Cadence Fishing CR5 and KastKing Perigee II. What you get from both is quality construction with a reliable durability. Also, the comfort of suing the Kastking Perigee II rod makes it ideal for newbies looking to perfect their angling skills.
