Top 8 Best Bass Fishing Rods Reviewed
Get ready to dive into my review of the top bass fishing rods!
As an experienced angler with two decades of fishing under my belt, I regularly go bass fishing several times a month. I’m captivated by their aggressive nature and the excitement they bring to every fight. Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to try out numerous rods specifically designed for bass fishing. Although I haven’t tested every single one, I conducted extensive research on those I couldn’t personally try. In fact, I dedicated almost 6 hours to researching these rods.
Considering factors like quality, user-friendliness, durability, and price, I have identified what I believe to be the finest bass fishing rods on the market. These rods are versatile, suitable for various fishing techniques, and can handle different types of bass. In fact, professional bass anglers also rely on these rod manufacturers, so you can trust their endorsement if you’re skeptical of my opinion.
If you’re searching for an affordable baitcasting fishing rod that possesses the necessary strength and sensitivity to tackle any bass, while remaining lightweight enough for all-day casting, look no further than the St Croix Mojo Bass. On the other hand, if you require a spinning rod that fulfills these criteria, the St Croix Triumph is the perfect choice.
If neither of these options suits your needs, fret not! We also have budget-friendly rods, surf rods, and a variety of other bass rods to cater to your preferences.
🏆 CHECK OUT OUR EDITOR’S CHOICE
QUICK OVERVIEW
Top 8 Best Bass Fishing Rods
PRODUCTS
FEATURES
- Blank Material: Graphite
- Guides: Aluminum Oxide
- Handle Material: Cork
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Guides: Alconite
- Handle Material: Cork
- Blank Material: Graphite
- Guides: Titanium Alloy
- Handle Material: Cork + EVA Foam
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Guides: Aluminum Oxide
- Handle Material: Cork
- Blank Material: Graphite
- Guides: Fuji Alconite
- Handle Material: Rubber Shrink Tubing/Cork
- Blank Material: Composite
- Guides: Fuji Alconite
- Handle Material: Rubber Shrink Tubing
- Blank Material: Composite
- Guides: Stainless Steel
- Handle Material: EVA Foam
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Guides: Fuji O-Ring
- Handle Material: EVA Foam
🏆 OUR EDITOR’S Pick
St Croix Mojo Bass Casting
Best Bass Fishing Rods
- Durable Aluminum Body
- Versatile Sling Mounts
- Inline Bolt System
1. St Croix Mojo Bass Casting
Features:
The St Croix Mojo Bass Casting Rod is an exceptional rod that can handle any bass and even take on larger fish with ease.
One of the key factors that sets this rod apart is St Croix’s Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) tooling technology. This advanced technology, which is exclusive to St Croix, eliminates transitional points in the rod blanks, resulting in a stronger and more sensitive rod. It’s safe to say that the St Croix Mojo Bass Casting Rod is among the strongest options available.
Despite the focus on the rod blank, St Croix didn’t overlook other components. The rod features a lightweight graphite construction, similar to Abu Garcia rods, ensuring it remains easy to handle. The aluminum oxide guides are exceptionally smooth and durable, while the cork handle provides a secure grip. It’s challenging to find any flaws in this top-notch rod.
However, it’s worth noting that the sensitivity and lightness of the St Croix Mojo Bass Casting Rod are not on par with the Abu Garcia Veracity, which is why it doesn’t claim the top spot. Nevertheless, the sensitivity and lightness are still impressive, just not as exceptional as the Abu Garcia Veracity.
While the rod itself is highly commendable, my experience with the packaging was disappointing. The rod arrived in a poorly packaged box, indicating a lack of attention to detail. However, the rod itself was undamaged and performed excellently. Additionally, the 5-year warranty provided by St Croix would have covered any potential damage, so there was no cause for significant concern.
St Croix is a reputable brand in the fishing industry, boasting over 70 years of experience. They are renowned for producing high-quality fishing rods that cater to various budgets. The St Croix Mojo Bass Casting Rod is a testament to their commitment to excellence and is sure to meet your expectations.
2. St Croix Triumph Spinning
Features:
Let’s move on to the St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod, which happens to be the only rod on this list that is lighter than the Abu Garcia Veracity. In fact, it is the lightest bass fishing rod available, and its exceptional lightness is not its only standout feature. This rod is also remarkably sensitive and robust.
First and foremost, the 7 ft option of this rod weighs an impressive 4.2 ounces. This incredible lightness is achieved through the use of SCII carbon. SCII carbon is a specialized graphite fiber with a higher strain rate compared to standard carbon fiber. In simpler terms, it is stronger, allowing for the use of less material while maintaining the same level of strength. As a result, this rod is extremely light without compromising its durability.
The use of SCII carbon also contributes to its exceptional sensitivity. In fact, this is one of the few bass rods on the market that offers enough sensitivity to be considered an ultralight rod. This means it can detect even the most subtle bites from panfish.
While the power of this rod is commendable, it falls slightly behind the Abu Garcia Veracity in this aspect, which is why it is ranked below it.
Taking everything into account, the St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod is the best spinning rod you can find for bass fishing. Moreover, it is reasonably priced, making it a great option that won’t put a strain on your budget.
3. Abu Garcia Veracity Casting
Features:
The Abu Garcia Veracity Casting Rod, a high-end rod that excels in handling any bass. What sets it apart is its remarkable lightness, making it the lightest bass rod available.
Right from the start, you’ll notice the exceptional quality of materials used. The guides are made of Titanium Alloy, which is highly resistant to corrosion. The handle features a combination of cork and EVA foam, providing all-day comfort and a secure grip.
The rod’s graphite construction ensures impressive sensitivity, allowing you to detect even the slightest bites. Despite its power rating, the rod’s true strength surpasses its indicated power. I personally tested it and found that its capabilities exceeded the ratings. This combination of sensitivity and strength makes it a versatile rod that can handle both large and small bass. With the Abu Garcia Veracity, you can confidently pursue bass knowing that you’ll be able to tackle any size.
To add to its excellence, the Abu Garcia Veracity is undeniably one of the lightest bass fishing rods on the market. This is achieved through the inclusion of Powerlux resin in the blank, which replaces some of the graphite, a heavier material. The result is effortless casting, allowing you to make as many casts as needed without strain.
While the Abu Garcia Veracity is perfect for bass fishing, it may not be suitable for extremely large or small fish species. However, since you’re specifically looking for a rod for bass, this should not be an issue.
Now, you may wonder about the price. Considering its exceptional features, one might expect a high price tag. Fortunately, the Abu Garcia Veracity is priced only slightly above the average bass fishing rod. It’s a deal that’s hard to resist, considering the performance it delivers.
Get ready to experience the incredible performance of this unbelievably light bass rod. The only thing left to do is make the purchase and get out on the water.
4. St Croix Premier Casting
Features:
If the price of the Abu Garcia Veracity was a bit beyond your budget, then the St Croix Premier Casting Rod is an excellent alternative that you’ll appreciate.
The St Croix Premier Casting Rod shares many similarities with the Abu Garcia Veracity. It offers comparable sensitivity, rated as fast action, allowing you to detect even the slightest movement from small bass. In terms of power, it boasts a heavy power rating, making it capable of handling even the largest bass.
The main difference between the two lies in their weight. The St Croix Premier is slightly heavier, which also contributes to its slightly lower price compared to the Abu Garcia Veracity. This makes it a great option for those who found the Abu Garcia Veracity just a little too expensive.
Rest assured, the St Croix Premier Casting Rod delivers exceptional performance and will meet your expectations for bass fishing.
5. Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning
Features:
For beginners in bass fishing, we highly recommend the Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod. It combines ease of use with exceptional quality, making it an ideal choice for newcomers to the sport.
While baitcasting rods have traditionally been favored in bass fishing, spinning rods offer greater simplicity, particularly for beginners who may struggle with baitcasting gear. The Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod is designed to be user-friendly, and I found its handling to be intuitive, ensuring beginners can easily manage the rod.
Not only is it beginner-friendly, but it is also crafted with top-notch materials. The use of rubber shrink tubing in this rod provides an incredibly secure grip, unmatched by the previous two rods mentioned. Additionally, the Fuji Alconite guides used in this rod are recognized as the gold standard in the fishing industry, with Fuji being a trusted brand for guides.
Furthermore, the Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod boasts an extra-fast action, surpassing even the sensitivity of the St Croix Triumph rod.
To add to its appeal, Penn is a renowned brand known for its commitment to quality and tournament-tested products. With around 1,400 IGFA world rankings, their rods have proven their exceptional performance in various saltwater game fishing tournaments.
In summary, the Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod is an excellent starting point for beginners, especially if you seek a high-quality bass fishing rod. It combines user-friendly features with exceptional craftsmanship, making it a standout choice for aspiring anglers.
6. Penn Battalion II Surf Conventional
Features:
If you enjoy beach fishing and have a particular interest in targeting bass, the Penn Battalion II Surf Conventional rod is specifically designed for you.
This rod is available in various sizes that are perfect for surf fishing, ranging from 10 to 12 feet. What sets it apart from other surf rods is its compatibility with a baitcasting reel, which offers enhanced casting accuracy for bass fishing.
True to Penn’s commitment to quality, this rod features their reliable Fuji Alconite guides and a comfortable rubber shrink tube handle for a secure grip.
One important aspect to consider is its composite blank, which combines fiberglass and graphite. This combination results in a well-balanced rod that is lightweight, durable, and sensitive. To ensure its strength, Penn incorporated fiberglass into the blank, making it slightly heavier but significantly more affordable compared to other rods that utilize advanced IPC® technology.
Keep in mind that due to its action not being fast, you may not feel the subtle bites of smaller bass. However, it is fully capable of handling larger bass that are the main target for beach anglers.
In my opinion, the Penn Battalion II Surf Conventional rod is currently the best option for catching bass at the beach. At its price point, it offers unparalleled suitability for bass fishing compared to other surf rods available.
7. Ugly Stik GX2 Casting
Features:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Ugly Stik GX2 Casting Rod is the perfect choice for bass fishing without breaking the bank. Although it may have a lower price tag, it doesn’t compromise on quality.
The rod features components that showcase its value, such as an EVA handle for comfort and a secure grip, as well as stainless steel guides that provide reliable performance. While the stainless steel guides may be slightly less resistant to corrosion compared to other options, they still deliver a satisfactory performance overall.
Similar to other rods mentioned earlier, the Ugly Stik GX2 utilizes composite blanks, which offer a balance of strength, lightness, and sensitivity.
Ugly Stik is known for manufacturing highly durable rods that are often considered nearly unbreakable. While this claim may be exaggerated, their reputation for toughness is well-established. In fact, Ugly Stik claims that their medium power rods can handle fish weighing up to 100 pounds, which exceeds the weight of the heaviest bass ever caught (22 pounds). Rest assured, the Ugly Stik GX2 is more than capable of handling even the largest bass.
However, it’s important to note a couple of downsides. Firstly, this rod is slightly heavier than most bass rods, which may result in fatigue during extended fishing sessions. Additionally, its slow action may make it difficult to feel the bites of smaller or slightly larger bass. However, slow action rods are suitable for larger bass, so if that’s your primary target, it won’t pose a problem.
Considering its budget-friendly price, the Ugly Stik GX2 Casting Rod stands out as the best option in its category. If you’re looking to save money without compromising too much on performance, this rod is a solid choice for bass fishing.
8. KastKing Perigee II Spinning
Features:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod is a suitable choice. It offers impressive specifications, particularly in terms of sensitivity and lightness, making it an attractive option at first glance.
However, it’s important to note that this rod may not be as durable as some of the other options on the list. After a few weeks of use, the rod tip of the KastKing Perigee II broke off, and shortly after, one of the guides fell off. This indicates a potential issue with the overall durability of the rod.
While the rod may boast great specifications, it’s priced competitively due to its shorter lifespan and potential durability concerns. Keep this in mind when considering the KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod as your budget option.
Baitcasting VS Spinning Rods
Baitcasting rods, also known as casting rods, are often recommended by professional bass anglers. While their expertise and needs may favor the use of these rods, it’s important to consider your own preferences and requirements.
The primary debate lies in choosing between a casting rod and a spinning rod. The main distinction between them is the compatibility with a baitcasting reel. Since the reel is the crucial factor, I will focus on highlighting the differences between baitcasting and spinning gear.
Casting Accuracy
Baitcasting reels are known for providing greater casting accuracy compared to spinning reels.
The design of baitcasting reels allows the spool to spin freely, giving anglers precise control over the line release by using their thumb. This level of control enables seasoned anglers to achieve highly accurate casts.
Lures
When it comes to casting, baitcasting reels are more suitable for heavier lures, while spinning reels are better for lighter lures. Baitcasters allow you to cast heavier lures farther, while spinning reels excel at casting lighter lures longer distances.
The choice between baitcasting and spinning gear depends on your fishing style and the weight of the lures you prefer to use. There is no definitive superiority of one over the other in this regard.
Line Pound Test
When it comes to lines below 10-pound test, spinning reels have the advantage over baitcasting reels. They provide smoother and more controlled line release, making them ideal for lighter lines.
However, when it comes to lines above 10-pound test, baitcasting rods are the clear choice. They offer better control and accuracy, allowing you to handle heavier lines with ease and precision.
Ease Of Use
Ease of use is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between baitcasting and spinning rods.
While baitcasting rods offer greater casting accuracy in the hands of experienced anglers, they can be more challenging for beginners to handle. The learning curve associated with baitcasting rods requires practice and skill to master.
On the other hand, spinning rods are generally more user-friendly, making them a better choice for beginners. They are easier to cast and control, allowing novice anglers to quickly get the hang of it and enjoy their fishing experience.
Ultimately, it’s important to assess your own level of expertise and comfort with fishing gear before deciding between a baitcasting or spinning rod.
Bass Fishing Rod Buying Guide
Now that I’ve presented you with the top fishing rods, it’s important to narrow down your options by considering the right combination of power, action, and length for your needs. This guide will assist you in making the appropriate choice.
Rod Power And Action
For those new to fishing, let me provide a brief explanation of rod power and action.
Rod power refers to the amount of force required to bend the rod, indicating its stiffness. On the other hand, rod action refers to how high up the rod bends when pressure is applied to the tip, determining its sensitivity. A higher bend indicates a faster action.
When it comes to bass fishing, I recommend opting for a medium power rod with fast action. This combination offers a balance of strength and sensitivity, allowing you to detect even the slightest bites from smaller bass.
However, it’s important to note that this recommendation can vary depending on your specific fishing goals. If you’re targeting larger, trophy-sized bass, you may prefer a medium-heavy or heavy power rod. Keep in mind that a medium-heavy rod will likely be lighter than a rod with heavy power.
Conversely, if you’re not interested in smaller bass, you can choose a rod with moderate or slow action.
It’s worth mentioning that I didn’t include medium-light and lighter options in the recommendations. It’s not that you can’t use these rods for bass fishing, but they are better suited for targeting only the smallest bass.
Rod Length
In general, the recommended rod length for bass fishing is between 6 to 7 feet. These lengths provide a good balance between handling bass and accommodating different fishing styles. Shorter rods may limit casting distance, while longer rods can add unnecessary weight.
However, if you plan to fish in the surf, longer rods are necessary. For surf fishing, you’ll want to consider rods in the range of 8 to 12 feet, as they provide the casting distance needed for surf conditions.
An 8-foot rod is suitable for fishing panfish closer to shore, offering moderate casting distance.
A 10-foot rod offers a good balance of casting distance and versatility, making it the preferred choice for many bass anglers.
A 12-foot rod provides the maximum casting distance and is ideal for anglers targeting larger bass and fishing in the surf.
Consider your fishing environment and casting needs when selecting the appropriate rod length for your bass fishing adventures.
Best Material For Bass Fishing Rods
The choice of material isn’t a very big issue. A graphite, fiberglass, or composite rod will all do fine for bass.
Each material does have its strengths and weaknesses though, so I broke them down below for you to pick your poison.
Graphite
Among the three materials, graphite will produce the most sensitive and most lightweight rod.
Due to this, it is also the most expensive, and the least sturdy.
Fiberglass
Both graphite and fiberglass rods have their own distinct characteristics, and while neither material specifically stands out for bass fishing, they each offer unique benefits.
Graphite rods are known for their lightweight nature, sensitivity, and responsiveness. They excel in providing anglers with a better feel for subtle bites and more accurate lure control. On the other hand, fiberglass rods are renowned for their toughness and durability. They can handle larger fish and withstand heavy use, making them a reliable choice for anglers seeking durability and strength.
In the case of bass fishing, where specific demands for extreme lightness or sensitivity may not be necessary, either material can be suitable. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and fishing style. Some anglers may prefer the sensitivity and responsiveness of graphite rods, while others may prioritize the durability and toughness of fiberglass rods.
Consider factors such as the fishing environment, target bass size, casting style, and personal preference when deciding between graphite and fiberglass rods for bass fishing.
Composite
Composite rods, as the name suggests, combine the qualities of both graphite and fiberglass. This results in a well-rounded rod that offers a balance of lightness, sensitivity, sturdiness, and durability.
While a pure graphite rod may be lighter and more sensitive, and a pure fiberglass rod may be sturdier and more durable, the composite material provides a compromise that appeals to many anglers. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of both materials in a single rod.
If you value versatility and prefer a rod that excels in multiple aspects, such as sensitivity, durability, and weight, a composite rod is the ideal choice for you. It provides a middle ground that caters to a wide range of fishing situations and preferences.
However, if you have specific priorities and prefer a rod that excels in a particular area, such as extreme sensitivity or unmatched durability, you may opt for a pure graphite or fiberglass rod, respectively.
Consider your fishing style, target species, and personal preferences when deciding between composite, graphite, and fiberglass rods for bass fishing.
Different Types Of Fishing Rod Handles
In general, the material of the fishing rod handle doesn’t significantly impact its performance. While certain materials may offer slight advantages, the overall difference between them is minimal.
However, if you come across two rods that are otherwise equally matched, with the only distinction being the handles, it can be a factor to consider in your decision-making process.
Cork
Cork handles are commonly found in fishing rods and have a traditional appearance. However, they are less durable compared to other handle options and may not withstand harsh conditions as effectively. In terms of grip, cork handles tend to offer a less secure hold. Surprisingly, despite these drawbacks, cork handles are often priced higher than alternative materials.
EVA Foam
EVA foam handles are widely recognized for their ability to deliver a secure and reliable grip. Known for their longevity, they are likely to endure the test of time alongside your fishing rod. Additionally, EVA foam handles are thicker compared to the other two materials, further enhancing comfort and stability during your fishing adventures.
Rubber Shrink Tubing
Rubber shrink tubing is a top choice when it comes to grip security. It offers an exceptionally secure hold, and it’s known for its durability and affordability.
It’s worth mentioning that even wooden cork handles can provide a strong grip, although they may not offer the same level of security as the other two materials.
If you come across a fishing rod with a less satisfactory handle, don’t let it discourage you from making a purchase. You always have the option to wrap the handle with your preferred grip material, allowing you to customize and improve its feel. Just remember to consider this aspect when making your buying decisions.
Reel Seat Material
A reel seat serves the purpose of securing your fishing reel in place. It is commonly constructed using either aluminum or graphite.
An aluminum reel seat offers superior strength and durability compared to a graphite reel seat. On the other hand, a graphite reel seat is lighter in weight.
In truth, the choice of reel seat material is not a major concern for many anglers, and it often goes unnoticed. However, if you prioritize maximum lightness, a graphite reel seat would be the preferred option. Conversely, if you value a more robust reel seat, an aluminum one would be recommended.
Final Verdict
In summary, most fishing rods have the capability to catch some species of bass. However, the best bass fishing rod should have the versatility to catch any species and size of bass while also being durable. The recommended baitcasting option is the St Croix Mojo Bass, while the recommended spinning option is the St Croix Triumph. These rods are believed to provide an excellent bass fishing experience. Now that you’ve found your ideal rod, here are the best baitcasting reels and best spinning reels to pair it with.
As for reel recommendations, it appears that specific rod and reel combos for bass fishing were not found, so you may need to choose your own reel to pair with the selected rod.