If you love fishing, picking, and camping, the right fishing rod is important for having fun and a successful time. Regardless of whether you are fishing in freshwater or saltwater, for leisure or in a competitive setting, there is a wide variety of rods available to choose from. But don’t worry! We have picked out the Best Fishing Rods of 2025 to help you find the one that works best for you. Below are our top choices for 2025, based on how well they perform, how durable they are, and what other users think. We’ve explained the key features, pros, cons, and who each rod is best for, so you can easily decide which one is right for you.
Top 7 Best Fishing Rods of 2025
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1. St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod – Best Overall Fishing Rod | Color: Deep Run Blue Size: 6’6″ Medium-Heavy/Fast 4 Pc. Material: Carbon Fiber Dimensions L x W x H: 28.15 x 4.76 x 4.06 inches |
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2. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo – Best Telescoping Rod | Color: 2 PACK Full Kit with Carrier Case Size: 1.8M 5.91FT Material: Carbon Fiber Dimensions L x W x H: 17.32 x 7.64 x 4.57 inches |
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3. Ugly Stik Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod | Color: Multi Size: 6’6″ – Medium – 1pc Material: Ugly Tech Construction Dimensions L x W x H: 80 x 3 x 3 inches |
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4. Zebco 202 & 404 Spincast Reels and Fishing Rod Combos | Color: Black/Red Size: 40 Material: Fiberglass, Metal Dimensions L x W x H: 35.4 x 5.5 x 1 inches |
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5. Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod | Color: Black Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: 78.3 x 3 x 1.5 inches Material: Blend Item Dimensions LxWxH: 108 x 96 x 0.04 inches |
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6. Shimano Sensilite A Spinning Rod | Color: Multi Size: Pieces: 1 | Length: 5’6″ | Power: Ultra Light Material: Blend Item Dimensions LxWxH: 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
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7. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod | Color: Black/Red Size: Pieces: 5’10” – Medium – 1pc Material: Ugly Tech Construction Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: 70 x 1 x 1 inches |
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In 2025, some of the best fishing rods are the Ugly Stik Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod. The Shimano Teramar NE Spinning Rod is a great choice for those who want a strong, portable spinning rod. Its 4-piece design helps it perform well when casting, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. However, it can be tricky to take apart, and the line guides might bend. The Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod is a budget-friendly, reliable rod that is easy to carry around. It’s light and sensitive, but it doesn’t have a hook holder, and the parts can sometimes get stuck when extending. For those who want top performance, the Shimano Sensilite A Spinning Rod is a strong and sensitive option made with high-quality materials.
1. St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod – Best Overall Fishing Rod
St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod is the 4 Price Fishing Rod, which is specially made for those people who want something easy to carry without losing good quality. This is made from string SCII Carbon, which makes it tough but still sensitive enough to feel fish bites. The design of this rod is travel-friendly, also you can pack it easily into a case or backpack. The handle of this rod is a Premium-grade cork that helps to grip easily. Overall, this is a great choice for those who love fishing and traveling.
REASONS TO BUY
- Easy to carry with its 4-piece travel-friendly design.
- Strong and sensitive thanks to premium SCII carbon.
- Smooth casting with high-quality Sea Guide guides.
- Comfortable to hold with the cork handle.
- Durable with extra protective Flex-Coat finish.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Power rating feels lighter than expected for some anglers.
Features
- Made with premium SCII carbon for strength and sensitivity.
- Sea Guide Atlas Performance slim aluminum-oxide guides with black frames for smooth line movement.
- Sea Guide XDPS reel seat with eco-friendly sandblasted hoods (spinning models).
- Premium-grade cork handle for a comfortable grip.
- Protected with two coats of Flex-Coat slow-cure finish.
- 4-piece design with a padded nylon soft case for easy travel and storage.
2. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo – Best Telescoping Rod
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a great choice for beginners and casual fishers who want something easy to carry and affordable. It is made with strong 24 24-ton carbon Fiber and Fiberglass, which gives it strength and flexibility for fishing in lakes, rivers, and even light saltwater. The rod can fold down into a small size, making it easy to take on trips. It comes with a smooth HA 3000 Spinning Reel that has a 12 + 1 bearing system, which helps to cast and pull in your line easily. The set has everything you need to start fishing right away. It works best for catching small to medium-sized fish. Overall, it is a good, budget-friendly option for travelers and hobby fishers.
REASONS TO BUY
- Very easy to carry and store.
- Great for beginners — comes as a full set.
- Smooth casting and reeling operation.
- Works well in both freshwater and light saltwater fishing.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Rod can be fragile when fighting bigger fish.
- The included fishing line is weak (only 8 lbs test)
Features
- Made with 24-ton carbon fiber and reinforced with fiberglass.
- Telescopic design for easy portability and storage.
- HA 3000 spinning reel with 12+1 stainless steel ball bearings.
- Welded stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts for smooth casting.
- Corrosion-resistant CNC-machined aluminum reel seat.
Best For: Budget-conscious anglers looking for a reliable all-purpose rod.
3. Ugly Stik Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod
The Ugly Stik Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod is one of the best choices for anglers who need a rod that combines durability, lightweight design, and sensitivity. Its carbon fiber construction makes it strong yet light, allowing you to fish for hours without tiring. The sensitive tip makes it ideal for detecting even the slightest bites, and with a seven-year warranty, you can rest assured that this rod is built to last. This rod comes with a year warranty, which shows that the company that made this product stands behind its quality and durability. Overall, if you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this rod offers great performance and long-lasting value.
REASONS TO BUY
- Exceptional durability: Can handle tough conditions.
- Lightweight design: Perfect for long fishing trips.
- Sensitive tip: Detects even the smallest bites.
- Seven-year warranty: Extra peace of mind.
REASONS TO AVOID
- One-piece rod: Can be difficult to store and travel with.
Best For: Anglers seeking a reliable rod for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
4. Zebco 202 & 404 Spincast Reels and Fishing Rod Combos
Zebco 202 & 404 Spincast Combos (2-Pack) is an excellent value bundle designed for both beginners and seasoned anglers. This set includes two fishing rods and reel combos that are simple to use. It is perfect for beginners or even experienced fishers who want something reliable. Each Combo comes with a 5.5 5.5-foot rod made from strong fibreglass and a pre-loaded reel. The 202 reel is good for catching smaller fish. The 404 reel is a bit stronger with a 15-pound line for bigger fish like bass or catfish. Both reels are easy to use with a push-button design and are built to avoid tangles. They also have strong metal gears that help pull in the line smoothly. Overall, this set is perfect for fishing trips with family or friends.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
Key Features
- Includes Zebco 202 (small reel) and Zebco 404 (larger reel)
- Both rods are 5 feet 6 inches long and made from strong fibreglass
- Push-button design with no tangle issues
- EVA foam handle makes it easy to hold for hours
- Tough metal gears and sturdy fibreglass rods
Best For: Serious anglers looking for a high-performance rod for inshore fishing.
5. Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod
If you’re into surf fishing and need a rod that can cast long distances, the Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod is your go-to choice. It’s lightweight yet strong, designed for long-distance casting without tiring your arm. The Fuji K-series guides are great for casting accuracy and distance, making this rod a solid investment for those who fish from the shore. This makes the rod a smart investment for anyone who enjoys fishing from the beach or shoreline.
REASONS TO BUY
- Long-distance casting: Perfect for surf fishing.
- Lightweight construction: Reduces arm fatigue during long fishing trips.
- Fuji K-series guides: Enhance accuracy and casting distance.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Two-piece design: May not be as durable as one-piece rods.
- Limited availability: May not be available in all areas.
Best For: Anglers targeting surf fishing and looking for a rod with long-distance casting abilities.
6. Shimano Sensilite A Spinning Rod
The Shimano Sensilite A Spinning Rod offers great value for anglers who are just starting or those on a budget. It’s affordable, yet provides great sensitivity for detecting bites. While it’s perfect for smaller species like trout and panfish, it’s not as durable as higher-end models, but for its price, it’s hard to beat. Overall, this rod is a great option for those hikers who love fishing and want a special rod with all the main features.
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable: Perfect for beginners or casual anglers.
- Lightweight: Easy to handle for long fishing sessions.
- Sensitive tip: Helps detect bites quickly.
REASONS TO AVOID
- One-year warranty: Not as long as the more expensive rods.
Best For: Beginners and casual anglers seeking an entry-level rod
7. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is known for its reliability and strength. It’s versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of fishing techniques. While it’s heavier than some other rods and lacks the sensitivity of higher-end models, its affordable price and durability make it a popular choice for anglers on a budget. Overall, this is the best choice for those people who want a rod with a normal price with high-quality key features.
REASONS TO BUY
- Versatile: Suitable for various fishing techniques.
- Durable: Great for tough conditions.
- Affordable pricing: Perfect for those on a budget.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavier than other rods: Can cause fatigue with long use.
How to Choose the Best Fishing Rods
Selecting the perfect fishing rod depends on various factors:
Fishing Environment:
Decide whether you’ll be fishing in freshwater or saltwater, as this influences the material and construction of the rod.
Target Species:
Different fish species require specific rod actions and powers. For instance, lightweight rods are ideal for panfish like trout, while heavier rods are better suited for larger species like bass or walleye.
Rod Material:
Common materials include graphite (lightweight and sensitive), fiberglass (durable and flexible), and composite (a blend of both).
Rod Length and Action:
Longer rods offer greater casting distance, while shorter rods provide better control. Fast-action rods bend near the tip, while slow-action rods bend throughout.
Fishing Rod Maintenance Tips
Proper care extends the life of your fishing rod:
- After each use, rinse the rod with fresh water to remove salt and dirt.
- Ensure that the guides are free from cracks or chips that could damage the fishing line.
- Store your rod in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent material degradation
- Regularly check for any signs of wear or damage, especially after rough handling or transport.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Fishing Rod in 2025
Freshwater vs. Saltwater
- Freshwater rods are lighter and designed for lakes or rivers.
- Saltwater rods are stronger, corrosion-resistant, and built to handle bigger fish and tough conditions.
Rod Length
- Short rods (under 7 ft): Better for accuracy and control in tight spaces.
- Long rods (7 ft and above): Ideal for long-distance casting, surf fishing, or open waters.
Rod Action and Power
- Action: Where the rod bends (fast = near tip; slow = bends throughout).
- Power: How much force is needed to bend the rod (light, medium, heavy).
Rod Material
- Graphite: Lightweight, very sensitive.
- Fiberglass: Tough, flexible, more durable.
- Composite: Best of both — balanced sensitivity and strength.
Target Species
- Use light rods for small fish like trout or panfish.
- Choose medium-heavy or heavy rods for larger fish like bass, catfish, or saltwater species.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Rods
- One-piece rods: More sensitive and durable.
- Two-piece or telescopic rods: Easier to transport and store, ideal for travel.
Warranty and Brand Trust
- Longer warranties (e.g., 7 years) mean better product confidence.
- Trusted brands typically offer better build quality and customer support.
Who Are We?
We are a team at OutdoorSearcher made up of loving hikers, campers, and outdoor adventurers with almost 10 years of real adventure and fun experience. We are glad you asked, and we have explored everything from the Snowy Peaks to the Rocky Mountains. On our trip, we can test hundreds of products to bring you honest and reliable advice about hiking gear. Our primary goal is to help you find the best product that will help you on your outdoor trip.
Conclusion
Selecting the Best Fishing Rods in 2025 enhances your fishing experience, whether you’re casting from the shore or battling a big catch. The rods listed above are among the top fishing rods of 2025, offering a range of options to suit different fishing styles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for spinning rods, baitcasting rods, or something in between, these choices cover all needs. They offer a wide range of options to fit different fishing styles, from casual weekend fishing to serious sport fishing. These rods are built with modern materials like carbon fiber and fiberglass, giving them strength, sensitivity, and lightweight.
