Fishing is one of the most tranquil ways to spend time in nature, and almost anyone can learn to fish. Aside from the lures, hooks, and bait, the most important piece of equipment you need is, of course, the fishing rod.
Before you dream about all the bass and trout you’ll hopefully catch, here are four great fishing poles that’ll make it a reality.
What to Look for in a Fishing Pole
Here are some factors to consider before you buy a fishing pole:
- Material: One of the most key components to look for in a fishing pole is the material it is made out of. On the one hand, fiberglass has great durability and elastic properties, but because of that, it can be difficult for the rod to clearly signal lighter bites. On the other hand, graphite, or carbon fiber, provides better visual feedback for lighter bites but isn’t as elastic as fiberglass. Often times, fishing rods will be made with a mix of both.
- Length: You can cast your line farther with a longer rod, but that may backfire if you’re looking to catch heavier fish. For heavy fish, a short rod will provide you the strength and sturdiness you need to reel them up.
- Power and Action: The power is the rod’s stiffness, while the action is the rod’s bending point. These both range from light to heavy, with light power and action, meaning less stiffness and bending near the handle, and a rod with heavy power and action means more stiffness and bending near the tip.
Top Pick: PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Kit
Both beginners and experts can trust this rod and reel kit. The pole is made with fiberglass and carbon fiber, allowing elasticity in the pole while remaining durable and robust. It has an EVA handle for an ergonomic grip and a reel that’s resistant to seawater corrosion. Its spool is deep with ample space for your line and has instant anti-reverse. The handle works comfortably for both hands. PLUSINNO offers various pole sizes, so choose the one that fits your needs best. This pole has a medium power.
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Sea Saltwater Freshwater Kit Fishing Rod Kit
This fishing pole is durable, elastic, and comes with a range of size options.
Best Budget: Zebco Dock Demon Spinning Reel
For a low-cost fishing pole, Zebco provides one of great quality. It’s a 30-inch fiberglass rod that’s lightweight and durable. It comes pre-spooled with a 6-lb line and has adjustable drag. It has medium power, moderate action, and anti-reverse properties.
Zebco Fishing Dock Demon Spincast Combo
If you're fishing on a budget, this is a durable rod for you.
Best Set: Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combo
With this high-quality fishing pole, you’ll also get a reel, carrying bag, three lures, and line. This fishing pole is made up of carbon fiber and fiberglass, which makes this rod durable enough to take a good beating. The rod has a hollow-frame design which allows the rod to be even lighter. It has smooth ball bearings, an interchangeable handle, and a great spool. With the additional accessories that Soungayilang provides in this set, you’ll get all the essentials you need to get your next catch.
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole Spinning Reels Fishing Carrier Bag for Travel Saltwater Freshwater Fishing-1.8M/5.91FT
This fishing pole includes additional accessories, like lures and line.
Also Consider: Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod
Ugly Stik makes great fishing rods, and the GX2 is one dependable rod to take with you. It’s made with graphite and fiberglass and weighs under a pound. Its fiberglass allows for better sensitivity. It also has an HT-100 carbon fiber drag system, which won’t take away from the rod’s smooth feel.
Ugly Stik 5’6” GX2 Spincast Youth Fishing Rod and Reel Spinning Combo, 2 Piece Rod, Size 30 Reel, Right/Left Hand Position
This rod is lightweight and has a great drag system.