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10 Best Saltwater Rods 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Ugly Stik 7’ Complete Saltwater Kit Fishing Rod and Reel Spinning Combo, Ugly Tech Construction with Clear Tip Design, 7’ Telescopic - 2-Piece Rod,Black

The Ugly Stik 7’ Complete Saltwater Kit is a solid choice for beginners and casual anglers looking for a reliable saltwater rod and reel combo. Its 7-foot length and medium-heavy power make it versatile enough to handle a variety of saltwater species like bass and trout, offering a good balance of strength and sensitivity. The rod is made with Ugly Tech construction, combining graphite and fiberglass, which provides durability without sacrificing feeling the bite. It’s a 2-piece telescopic design, making it easy to transport and store.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,154
Line and Lure Weight
Handle

Most important from
2839 reviews

Line and Lure Weight
Pre-spooled line quality can be inconsistent, occasionally causing tangles that require attention.
Handle
The rod’s weight and feel provide a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
#2
9.8 score

Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Elite Spinning Rod, Two-Piece, 6-14lb Line Rating, Medium Power, Fast Action, 1/4-5/8 oz. Lure Rating

The Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Elite Spinning Rod is a solid choice for saltwater fishing, especially for anglers targeting species like trout using spinning techniques. Its 7-foot length offers good versatility, giving you enough reach without being unwieldy. The rod’s medium power and fast action enable it to handle a decent range of fish sizes and respond quickly to bites, providing greater control and sensitivity.

Rating
9.8
Action
Handle

Most important from
3849 reviews

Action
The rod’s flex and fast action deliver impressive responsiveness, ideal for both surf and inshore fishing scenarios.
Handle
The premium cork handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended fishing sessions or when wet.
#3
9.7 score

Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod, Black/Red/Yellow

The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod is a solid choice for saltwater fishing, especially if you target species like tuna, salmon, or northern pike. It comes in a 7-foot length with medium-heavy power and fast action, which gives you a good balance of strength and sensitivity when casting and fighting fish in saltwater conditions. The rod uses Ugly Tech Construction and features durable Ugly Tuff guides, designed to handle tough saltwater environments without easily wearing out. Its Fuji reel seat is a nice touch, offering secure reel attachment, and the full wells plastic handle provides a comfortable grip, though some anglers might prefer cork for a softer feel. The rod’s line weight range (10-17 lb) and lure weight support are suitable for medium-sized saltwater fish, making it versatile but maybe not ideal for very heavy offshore fishing.

Rating
9.7
Action
Material

Most important from
1350 reviews

Action
Combines great action with impressive sturdiness for reliable performance.
Material
Its construction makes it an excellent choice for traveling anglers.

Top 10 Best Saltwater Rods 2025 in the United States

Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod, Black/Red/Yellow

Rod Length: 7-foot
Power: Medium Heavy
Action: Fast
Line and Lure Weight: 10-17 lb
Guides: Ugly Tuff guides
Handle: Full Wells plastic handle

Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Black/Red/Yellow

Rod Length: 7 Feet
Power: Medium
Action: Balances strength and flexibility
Material: Aluminum
Line and Lure Weight: 1/4 - 6 lb
Guides: Ugly Tuff guides

Okuma Classic Pro GLT E-Glass Downrigger Rod,black

Rod Length: 8.5 Feet
Power: Medium
Action: Moderate
Material: Composite
Line and Lure Weight: 10-25 lbs
Guides: Stainless steel with titanium oxide inserts
Handle: EVA with durable shrink tube

OKUMA VSS-S-1004H Voyager Signature Surf Travel Rods, Black, 10' H

Rod Length: 10 Feet
Power: Heavy
Action: Fast
Material: Aluminum
Line and Lure Weight: 17-40 LBS
Guides: Fuji tangle-free with FazLite inserts
Handle: EVA, Split style

Okuma RA-S-1202MH Rockaway Surf,Black

Rod Length: 12 feet
Power: Medium Heavy
Action: Moderate
Material: Composite
Line and Lure Weight: 10-25 pounds, 4 ounces
Guides: Zirconium inserts
Handle: EVA
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Buying Guide for the Best Saltwater Rods

Choosing the right saltwater rod is crucial for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience. Saltwater rods are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the ocean and the strength of larger fish. When selecting a saltwater rod, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your fishing needs and preferences. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Rod LengthRod length is the measurement from the tip of the rod to the butt. It affects casting distance, leverage, and control. Longer rods (7-12 feet) are ideal for surf fishing as they allow for longer casts, while shorter rods (6-7 feet) are better for boat fishing where space is limited and precision is key. Choose a length based on where you'll be fishing and the type of fish you're targeting.
PowerPower refers to the rod's ability to withstand pressure and is often categorized as light, medium, or heavy. Light power rods are suitable for smaller fish and lighter lures, medium power rods are versatile and can handle a variety of fish sizes, and heavy power rods are designed for large, strong fish. Select the power based on the size and strength of the fish you plan to catch.
ActionAction describes how much and where the rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip and are great for quick hook sets and sensitivity, making them ideal for targeting fast-moving fish. Medium action rods bend in the top half and offer a balance of sensitivity and power, suitable for a variety of fishing techniques. Slow action rods bend throughout the entire length and are best for casting light baits and fighting smaller fish. Choose the action based on your fishing style and the type of fish you're after.
MaterialSaltwater rods are typically made from graphite, fiberglass, or a composite of both. Graphite rods are lightweight, sensitive, and strong, making them ideal for detecting bites and fighting fish. Fiberglass rods are more durable and flexible, suitable for battling larger fish. Composite rods offer a balance of both materials' benefits. Consider the material based on your need for sensitivity, strength, and durability.
Line and Lure WeightThe line and lure weight rating indicates the optimal range of line strength and lure weight the rod can handle. Using a line or lure outside this range can affect performance and potentially damage the rod. Match the line and lure weight to the type of fishing you plan to do and the species you're targeting. Heavier lines and lures are needed for larger fish, while lighter ones are suitable for smaller species.
GuidesGuides are the rings along the rod that direct the fishing line. Quality guides reduce friction and improve casting distance and accuracy. They are typically made from materials like stainless steel, ceramic, or titanium. More guides generally mean better performance, but also higher cost. Choose rods with durable, smooth guides to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
HandleThe handle, or grip, is where you hold the rod. Handles are usually made from cork, EVA foam, or a combination of both. Cork is comfortable and provides a good grip, while EVA foam is durable and resistant to wear. The length and design of the handle can affect comfort and leverage. Choose a handle that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your fishing style, whether you need a longer handle for two-handed casting or a shorter one for better control.

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