If you are in a rush the Best Spinning Rod is the Shimano Trevala Saltwater Spinning Rod.
If you are looking for the Best Spinning Rod for the Money it is the Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning Rod.
As an angler, there are a lot of different types of fishing rods that you might consider to include in your fishing gear. The best spinning rods can be used in both saltwater and freshwater. We have a specific guide on Salt Water Spinning Reels that can pair with some of the rods here. They are versatile, which means that you will be able to catch a wide variety of fish with them. If you are a beginner, the way that this type of rod adapts to your fishing style can help you learn even easier, which will help you become a more experienced or even a pro angler quickly. There are tons of different spinning rods on the market, but each one is not going to be made the same. There is a lot to know about a spinning rod, and this guide is designed to lay out the facts on these spinning rods.
The Best Spinning Rods are as Follows:
- Shimano Trevala Saltwater Spinning RodÂ
- St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
- Penn Carnage II Boat Spinning Fishing Rod
- Okuma Nomad Travel Spinning Rod
- Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spinning Rod
The Best Spinning Rods for the Money Goes as Follows:
- Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
- Cadence Lightweight Spinning Rod
- Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod
- KastKing Royale Select Fishing Rod
- Fenwick HGM Spinning Rod
Table of Contents
Best Spinning Rods Reviews
The following are the best spinning rods as chosen by verified customers.
1. Shimano Trevala Saltwater Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Shimano Butterfly Jigs
- Lightweight design with increased sensitivity
- A fast recovery rate
- Reinforced Fuji Aluminum Oxide Guides
- Diamond polished guides
- Comfortable foam rubber grip
This is a saltwater rod that is designed to be used with Shimano Butterfly jigs, which are very powerful reels that offer a lot of speed. This line of rods uses TC4 technology that has a layer of fiberglass and a layer of graphite repeating until there are four layers in the blank. This will allow the rod to have more flexibility without sacrificing the sensitivity levels of the rod.
This rod features a Fuji reel seat that is going to be comfortable in your hand as you reel in the fish that you caught. The line guides are made from a silicon carbide (SIC), which is one of the leading materials that will help to disperse heat as the line goes through the guides. In fact, the guides all have a diamond polished finish on them to help decrease the wear on the line and give it a longer lifespan.
The grip is a split grip that is comfortable to hold, even if you are dealing with offshore fishing conditions. The grips are rubber, but that will allow you to easily keep a better grip on the rod, especially if your hands are wet.
Pros
- It is a solid rod that is durable and reliable.
- This rod has nearly perfect balance.
- It’s very lightweight and easy to hold.
- It works well for catching large fish.
Cons
- The price tag is a bit on the more expensive side.
- It does not pair well with monofilament fishing line.
2. St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Premium graphite material
- Aluminum-oxide guides
- Corrosion-resistant design
- A comfortable, split grip
- Cork handle that fights fatigue
- Five-year warranty
This is a great spinning rod for any angler that likes to do inshore fishing. This lightweight model is specifically designed to be used in shallow saltwater. It is made of high-quality graphite that will last for years. In fact, the graphite is SCII, which will give the rod more sensitivity than some other models. The guides on this gem are aluminum-oxide, which will help to make sure that the rod does not suffer from the effects of corrosion over the years.
The rod comes with a cork handle that will help to keep your hands ready to reel in a fish whenever they bite the hook. The handle has a split design that will allow you to feel comfortable as you are holding it. This type of handle will also give you a better grip when your hands are wet, but you are ready to cast again. The models of this rod range in size and the type of line and lure that you can use for each will vary. However, they all have a fast action, which is precisely what you want when you are fishing inshore.
In addition, this rod comes with a generous five-year warranty that is backed by St. Croix, which means that if it breaks or the guides happen to break during this period, they will be repaired or replaced by the manufacturer.
Pros
- This spinning rod is handmade.
- It has a good casting distance.
- The maximum cast weight is two ounces.
- The sensitivity and the power of this rod are incredible.
Cons
- This rod can take some time to adjust to if you are a novice
3. Penn Carnage II Boat Spinning Fishing Rod
Key Features:
- A durable SLS3 construction
- Fuji K guides
- Non-slip grip for better handling
- Aluminum reel seat
The Carnage II rods by Penn are a durable selection of rods that anglers rely on daily. Overall, they perform well. This specific model is one that is designed to be used on a boat, so it is slightly shorter so that the angler can have more control over their casts. The blank is made out of a composite material that is carbon fiber towards the center of the rod, and the outer edges are comprised of a fiber and glass mixture that helps keep the rod thin without compromising its durability.
The guides are also high quality with their laminate covering and the aconite inserts, which are a type of ceramic that is lightweight and will be protected from corrosion and adverse weather effects. It also has aluminum rod seats, which will offer more stability while you are fishing.
There is a lightweight aluminum gimbal on the butt of the rod, which will allow you to lock the rod into a holder in a boat as you fish. This is designed to be used when trolling, but it can also hold the rod when you need your hands for something else. The handles have a rubber, split-grip design, so they will provide a non-slip surface that will come in handy when your hands are wet.
Pros
- It has a durable construction.
- The rod is very lightweight.
- The handle is ergonomic and non-slip.
- It’s excellent for use in saltwater.
Cons
- It may not be the best option for beginners.
4. Okuma Nomad Travel Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Rod breaks down for easy transport
- Alps 316 SS guide frames
- Two tip options for different actions
- Waterproof design
- Comfortable padded grips
If you are an angler that enjoys going fishing as you travel across the globe, then this is an optimal option to consider for your travels. It is a beautiful black rod with blue highlights that can be separated into three parts. This three-section design is what makes it so convenient for travel, especially if you need to fit the rod in a bag.
This rod comes with two different tips that you can use as well, which will make it easier to change the action of the rod when you want to change up the type of fishing that you are doing. One of the tips is designed to be lighter while the other has a bit more weight. Even though it is a three-piece rod, the connections are designed to fit snugly together so that you feel like you are using a one-piece rod that is sturdy and highly durable.
This rod has Alps SS guide frames that are incredibly durable and designed to give your line a safe journey when you catch a fish. The guide inserts are even made out of zirconium, which will help to give your line and the guides a longer lifespan.
Pros
- This rod casts quite well.
- The rod is the perfect size for travel, especially if you need to take it in a bag.
- The rod comes with two different tips for added versatility.
- The quality rod is stunning to look at.
Cons
- It is a bit on the heavy side, especially if you are fishing for more than a few hours.
5. Fenwick Elite Tech River Runner Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Comfortable handle design
- Titanium frame guides
- Extremely lightweight
- Cork handle that fight fatigue
This is a series that ranges in sizes from a five-foot to an eight-foot model that will give you what you are looking for on the water. It has a hidden handle design that is comfortable to use. The material that the handle is made out of is not only designed to fight fatigue, but the cork has a design that will make gripping the rod much easier when it gets wet.
The guides are made from titanium, which is a durable material that is going to be able to last through years of fishing. This is the most robust material that you can find on the market if you are looking for a lightweight design. It also comes with SIC inserts that will help to reduce the friction between your line and the guides.
Most of these graphite rods are two-piece, but there are a few options that you can purchase that are a single piece. This rod is ideal for smaller fish, but it will also work if you get a big guy on the line. The action of this line is fast, which will give you more sensitivity.
Pros
- This is a very lightweight fishing rod.
- The sensitivity will allow you to feel even the slightest bite.
- It’s easy to travel with because it is very compact.
- It has a very accurate cast.
Cons
- The two-piece design does not connect seamlessly all of the time.
Best Spinning Rods for the Money
1. Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
Key Features:
- Graphite blank construction
- Stainless steel guides
- One-piece rod
- Increase sensitivity
- Cushioned grip
This is another Ugly Stik spinning rod that is designed for versatility. It comes in a few different sizes, and it can be purchased with a medium or a heavy action. The blank is a single piece that is made of graphite. This will give the rod a good level of sensitivity, which you will need, whether you are fishing in salt or freshwater.
This rod is fitted with stainless steel guides that will help to reduce the amount of drag between the line and the rod. It also has a beautiful finish that will coat the rod to help protect it from the rain and the corrosion that could happen in extended exposure.
The lightweight model is very comfortable to hold for an extended amount of time, and the grips are made from EVA material that will help to protect the rod and give you a non-slip surface to hold while you are fishing.
Pros
- It is a very versatile fishing rod.
- The rod is highly sensitive and quite powerful.
- The rod is very light and easy to carry.
- The overall finish is quite attractive.
Cons
- It could be a little stiffer.
2. Cadence Lightweight Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Carbon fiber blank
- Lightweight, durable material
- Stainless steel guides
- Portable, two-piece design
- Three-year warranty
This Cadence spinning rod is a lightweight model that is both strong and durable. It is a model that has a CR5 design, which is a superior design that many anglers have come to love with Cadence products. It has a blank that is made with a 30-ton carbon graphite material that can be purchased in various lengths and actions. The rod ranges from 4.8 feet to seven feet in length. The rod can be either a two-piece section that makes it easy to travel with, but if you prefer a one-piece rod, that is available as well.
Stainless steel guides are very durable on this rod, and they have been coated to help prevent corrosion from occurring. There are SIC inserts in each one of the guides that are designed to give you led friction on your fishing line. This will give your fishing gear a longer life, but it will still be sensitive enough to allow you to feel bites on the line.
There are two different handle configurations that you can consider if you decide to purchase this spinning rod. The first is a split handle that is made out of EVA foam, and the second option that you can select for your rod is full handles that are made using cork. Both are comfortable options, so just choose the one that fits your style of fishing. In addition, this spinning rod comes with a three-year warranty.
Pros
- The reel is simple to equip.
- The rod is available in various lengths.
- Two separate handle options are available to you.
- The rod is made out of high-quality materials.
Cons
- The handle is a bit narrow, so it can cause fatigue after extended use.
3. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Lightweight design
- Graphite blank
- Stainless steel guides
- Comfortable, cork grips
Most anglers do not use the same fishing techniques every time they go out on the water to fish, which is why it is beneficial to find a rod like this one that is versatile and able to accommodate your technique. This rod is designed to be used in both saltwater and freshwater, and you will be able to catch fish that are small in size as well as larger ones.
This is a rod that has a blank that is made out of graphite, so it is a very durable model that is easily able to last for years. This model is also very lightweight, which makes it easier to carry and transport with you so that you can enjoy fishing during your travels. I love the design of this rod because it is made with a sleek style that you can hold in your hands for hours at a time.
The sensitivity on the rod is excellent, so you will be able to feel whenever a fish gets on the hook. The handle is made of cork, which can provide a good amount of grip with wet and dry hands. The handle has a split design that will give you the comfort that you need without risking fatigue as you fish. The guides are made out of stainless steel material that will not easily corrode in inclement weather.
Pros
- This spinning rod is back by a seven-year warranty.
- It has terrific strength and sensitivity.
- The rod is made of very durable materials.
- It’s a very versatile spinning rod.
Cons
- The rod feels a bit too limber.
- The guides seem a bit small.
4. KastKing Royale Select Fishing Rod
Key Features:
- Nylon reel seat
- 24 ton Toray Carbon blank for added strength
- Fresh and saltwater fishing options
- High level of sensitivity
- Premium Fuji guides
The final spinning rod that we are going to look at in this guide is the KastKing Royale Select. It has a sleek look that is black with red highlights, and it can easily be used in both fresh and saltwater. This is a very powerful model that is made using Toray 24-ton carbon matrix blanks. This technology will also increase the level of sensitivity that you will experience while you are fishing.
The guides are designed to be great for distance, so if you are fishing where you need accuracy and distance, this is an excellent option for you to consider. They are designed to dissipate the heat so that the line does not get too much wear at one time.
This rod is fitted with premium Fuji guides that are durable and designed to last. These O-ring guides are designed to work well with any type of fishing line, and the guides are designed to increase the casting distance that you can achieve.
Pros
- A limited lifetime warranty covers this rod.
- It is comfortable to grip in your hands.
- This is a very balanced rod.
- It is a very versatile spinning rod.
Cons
- It’s a little on the heavy side.
5. Fenwick HMG Spinning Rod
Key Features:
- Cork grip
- Carbon bound blanks
- Fuji guides with aconite inserts
- Limited lifetime warranty
The construction of this rod is designed to be advanced and offers a lot to the angler without costing a lot. The blank is made out of graphite, which will give it a good amount of durability. This layer is also covered in carbon veil hoop fibers that are additional strength and sensitivity to the design. It may not feel as sensitive as similar models, but it will have all of the durability that you need when it comes to a fishing rod.
The guides on the rod are advanced because they are made out of aconite. This means that they will be strong, but they will not add additional weight to the model. They will create less friction on the fishing line that you use, and these guides have been coated to make sure that it does not fall victim to corrosion over the years.
When you are fishing, you need to be comfortable holding the rod for hours at a time, and this rod has a TAC handle that you will love. It provides a secure grip to anglers in the rain and in dry conditions. It is comfortable to hold, even when your hands are not completely dry. This is a model of a spinning rod that is backed with a limited lifetime warranty, so if anything happens regarding the construction of the rod, it will be replaced by the manufacturer.
Pros
- It has a good level of sensitivity.
- This is a well-balanced rod.
- The grip is comfortable to use, whether it is raining or not.
- This rod comes with a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The rod feels a little stiff for an ultra-light rod.
- It lacks the power to reel in larger, more aggressive fish.
Difference Between Spinning Rod and Other Rods
With fishing rods, there are three basic types that you are going to be considering, unless you are looking for a specialized rod for ice fishing, fly fishing, or trolling. These include the spinning rods that we have been talking about, baitcasting rods, and float rods. The most significant difference between the different types of rods is the location of the reel and the guides. With a spinning rod, both of these will be hanging underneath the fishing rod. When you use a casting rod, the guides are located on the top of the rod, and a float rod has a much larger reel that is positioned the same way as a spinning rod.
How to Choose the Best Spinning Rod for Yourself
There are a few different things that you will need to consider when you are looking for a new spinning rod. These will help you to find a rod that can cast better and give you the results that you are looking for when you are out on the water trying to catch some fish. Some of the considerations that you will need to make include:
Is it a Travel-Friendly Spinning Rod?
One of the main things that you are going to want to consider is how easily are you are going to be able to transport it from one location to the next. There are two different types of rods that you can consider when you are looking for a travel-friendly model. The first is a telescopic fishing rod that can collapse into a more compact size that makes it easy to travel with. These can easily be rods that are 20 to 30 feet in length when they are extended, but when they are collapsed, they will only be about two feet long.
The other option that you can consider is a spinning rod that is designed to separate and break down into two smaller sections. This will not be as cumbersome to transport as a one-piece spinning rod, but it will still take up more space than a telescopic option, so make sure you have the space to haul the rod that you select. Once you pick a rod that you like, you can easily pair it with a reel that you like as well. You do not have to purchase a rod and a reel together, if you like a specific style, you can purchase all of the parts separately and put them together on your own.
The Action of the Rod
The action of the spinning rod is basically where the rod bends when there is weight on it and how quickly it is going to recover when the weight is removed. There are different speeds that you can consider when you are looking for a new spinning rod. You can get:
- An Extra Fast Action Spinning Rod: This is the stiffest action that you can get, and it will only bend the rod right at the tip. This will make the rod more sensitive when you are fishing, which means that even the smallest bites can be felt on the line. This type of action is often used for trolling because it will have a lot of power in the cast.
- A Fast Action Spinning Rod: This is still a relatively sensitive option, but it will give you a little more bend on the rod.
- A Medium Action Spinning Rod: This is another middle-ground option that anglers choose to use. It offers a good amount of flexibility and sensitivity when you are fishing, so it will help the hook set in the mouth of the fish well without it pulling out too easily. Mid-weight bait is often used for this action.
- A Slow Action Spinning Rod: This option will give you the most flexibility that you can get while you are fishing. It works well with light bait that is alive because the rod can easily absorb the shock of the fish biting while the hook is set. This is great when you are looking for large fish so that the line and the rod do not snap when the fish is hooked.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the rod is how easy it is going to be to feel the fish when they bite the line. When the action is faster, the sensitivity is going to be higher. Decide how much sensitivity you will need for the type of fishing that you like to do the most before you make your purchase. The amount of sensitivity that you can get with a rod can change slightly based on the line and the lure that you use as well as the type of rod.
Durability
When looking for a spinning rod, one of the key features to consider is the durability of the rod. This will determine how long the rod will last you and the value that you are going to get out of it over time. For this, you will need to check the construction of the rod and all of the components that make it. One of the main things to consider is the blank composition of the rod, but you will also need to check the reel seat and the guides for the line on each pole to make sure that they are reinforced and that they fit correctly..
Rods that have a lot of power tend to be more durable. If you plan on fighting aggressive fish, you are going to need a spinning rod that has some strength to it. Also, if you are planning on using the rod in saltwater, then it should have some durability on the rod so that it does not corrode in the seawater and take damage that will shorten its lifespan.
The better you care for the rod that you select, the more durable it will be. This means that you will need to clean the rod from time to time and make sure that it is not being used for tougher to handle jobs than it was designed to manage. With the proper care, a good rod can last for quite a few years, even if it is one that is considered a budget rod that was just simpler to manage at the time of your purchase.
Length of the Rod
In most situations, the length of a spinning rod can vary quite a bit. There are very short rods that are ideal for fishing off of a boat as well as much longer rods that are well over 13 feet in length. Longer rods are required when you are surf fishing so that you can get the line to go the distance that you need it to go off of the shore. They are also better to use with larger fish so that they can help you reel in that big one that you have been trying to catch. Shorter rods will be more accurate, which makes them easier to use when you are fishing off of a dock or a boat. Shorter rods are also preferred for ice fishing because there is no need to cast the line; you will simply place it in the water and let it sink. Decide which length is the best for your fishing needs before you purchase a spinning rod.
Accuracy of Casting
When you first start fishing, your cast is going to be far from perfect, but with enough practice, you will be able to improve your accuracy by quite a bit. Remember, accuracy will depend on the type of fishing that you do as well as your ability to focus on the target and actually hit the spot that you are aiming for. When you have a shorter spinning rod, you are likely to find that you will have more accuracy in your casts. Make sure that you find a rod that you are comfortable with and use some lightweight lure to put on your gear. The last thing that you want to do is adjust your cast; When you go hunting, you cannot adjust the bullet after it is shot, so when you are out of the water, you need to aim properly and concentrate on hitting your target.
Composition of the Rod
The composition of the rod is also going to be very important during the time of purchase because it will help to determine the performance, the ease of use, and how durable the unit will be. There are three different types of material that spinning rods can be composed of, but the majority of them will be made out of graphite because it is a durable material that is comfortable to use, strong, and flexible. Though, rods can be a bit on the brittle side sometimes, especially if they are stored in a location where they can easily bend. Let’s take a closer look at the different types so that you can make an informed decision.
- Graphite: This is a more expensive option, but it is often the most common that you will see at any fishing store. They are very powerful rods that are highly sensitive, and they are typically made so that the rod has a fast action, though this is not always the case.
- Composite: This is a mix of the two materials, and sometimes another material is added to the rod to give it the preferred sensitivity. These are an in-between rod that blends the characteristics of both options to provide you with your ideal rod. Most of these rods fall into the medium action category.
- Fiberglass: This material is typically less expensive to purchase, but it is not going to be as sensitive as the other options. It will also not do as well when you are fighting to get a big fish into your boat.
What Fish are you Targeting?
There are a lot of fish in the oceans and the freshwater bodies of water on the planet, so if you tend to target a specific type of fish, then you will need to find a spinning rod that works for your needs. If you like to fish for bass in a creek near your home, you are going to need a different rod than you would to fish in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay when you are looking for a 100-pound cobia. The larger fish is going to give you more of a fight to reel in, so you are going to need a rod that has the power to bring it in without snapping the line or the rod.
Rod Rating and Line Rating
When you look at your fishing rod, there are tiny pieces of information on the rod itself that will help you make sure that you are using the right line and lure for the rod. The line rating is designed to give you a range of fishing line that will work for that specific rod, and if there is no particular line type on the rod, you should use monofilament that falls in the weight range listed. Lure rating refers to the weight of your lures, and it should give you a range that is in ounces. Try to follow the recommendations that are on the rod to get the best results, and if the recommended rating is not enough, then consider a rod that will accommodate the large lure that you like to use.
Type of Lure You are Using
If you are an angler that only fishes with a specific type of lure, then you are going to want to take that into consideration before you make a purchase. In general, the action of the rod that you use will determine the type of lure that the rod can handle. Remember, the lure is not the bait; it is designed to be easy to use and more efficient at covering the water that you are fishing in. When a rod has a lot of sensitivity, a lighter lure is often preferred. There are seven types of lures that you can choose from, which include:
- Jigs: These are very versatile options that come in various shapes and sizes.
- Spinners: These are great for beginners to use, especially if fishing in muddy waters.
- Spoons: This is also a versatile option that comes in various colors and sizes.
- Soft Plastic Bait: These are designed for bass fishing.
- Plugs: These can float or dive, which makes them great for fishing in any type of water.
- Spinnerbait: This is a lure that has two parts, and it will work great when fishing at a depth of fewer than five feet.
- Flies: These are very light lures that are designed to imitate insects; in fact, some will even float on the surface of the water.
Look at the Guides
The guides of any spinning rod are going to be vital because they are designed to control where the line can move as you cast and retrieve the line. They will need to be durable enough to last because these guides can easily become damaged if you are not careful. They can bend or snap, depending on the material that they are made out of. They also help to minimize the amount of friction on the line so that it is easier to reel in the line. Ceramic is an option that creates a very low amount of friction, which makes the rod more efficient.
The Grips
The grips are the part of the spinning rod that you hold while you are fishing. They will help you get enough control over the rod when you are casting it and give you the leverage that you need. The grips of each rod are designed to provide you with a comfortable place to hold, so if the grips do not conform to your hands, then you may want to consider another option that is more comfortable for you. Most are designed with ergonomic support that will help to minimize the fatigue that your hands feel over the course of the day.
Top Brands
There are quite a few brands that you will come across when you are searching for a new spinning rod. However, not all rods are made the same, so some of the brands that many anglers will consider for high quality include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between expensive and budget fishing rods?
A: There is no significant difference between an expensive model and a budget-friendly model. Most are built with the same material, so as long as the durability is up to par and the guides are going to last, there is no need to get a more expensive model if you do not want to do so.
Q: Is a heavy or a light spinning rod best?
A: This will depend on where you like to fish and the type of fish that you will be attempting to reel in on your line. A heavy rod is ideal for fishing in deeper water and bringing in large fish that may put up a fight. Lighter rods are great for fishing in clear, open water that has smaller fish in it.
Q: How do you clean a spinning rod?
A: Make sure to always rinse off the rod to remove all of the sand, salt, and dirt off of it. Then, use soapy water to wipe it down with a soft cloth. Never use harsh chemicals, and make sure to rinse it off thoroughly. Allow the rod to dry, and then apply a drop of reel grease to keep it from corroding over time.
Q: How should you store a spinning rod?
A: To keep your spinning rod safe from the elements, you are going to keep the rod in a safe place. This can be a case or a sleeve, but it should never be leaned against the wall where it can bend. Keep the rod out of humid places, and make sure that it is not exposed to extreme heat or cold because this could weaken the material.
Q: Can you repair a line guide that has broken?
A: Yes, you will be able to fix the line guide without much work at all. In fact, you can even find repair kits that have line guides in them if it cannot be repaired, and replacing one is relatively simple to do.
Q: Is it worth spending extra on a graphite rod?
A: Graphite is the more durable option, so many anglers prefer it, but if you prefer another material, go with the one that you are the most comfortable using.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what to look for in a new spinning rod, you will see that all of the products that we have reviewed here are great options for any angler to consider. Whether you are a novice or a pro, you can find something that fits your fishing needs in this guide. If we were to select one of the reviewed products because it stands out above the rest, it would be the St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod. It is made using high-quality materials that will be resistant to corrosion. It has a comfortable split grip that will keep your hands from feeling fatigued, and it comes with an excellent warranty. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly model, the Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning Fishing Rod is also worth considering.