Top 12 Best Telescopic Fishing Rods Reviewed
If you are searching for the finest telescopic fishing rods, you have come to the right place. Drawing from my extensive 20 years of fishing experience, I have encountered numerous telescopic fishing rods. By carefully considering factors such as quality, rod power, affordability, collapsed length, and durability, I have curated a list of the best telescopic fishing rods currently available on the market.
Among the twelve exceptional options, one rod stood out from the rest – the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod And Reel Combo. This rod is not only lightweight and portable but also boasts high-quality craftsmanship and, most importantly, remarkable durability. If you are pressed for time and cannot delve into the details, I highly recommend the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod And Reel Combo, which is certain to satisfy even the most discerning anglers.
It is well-known that telescopic fishing rods have a reputation for being fragile and prone to breaking. However, once you explore these twelve outstanding options, you will undoubtedly change your perspective. Do not just take my word for it – read on and make your own informed decision.
🏆 CHECK OUT OUR EDITOR’S CHOICE
QUICK OVERVIEW
Top 12 Best Telescopic Fishing Rods
PRODUCTS
FEATURES
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Number of Sections: 6
- Collapsed Rod Length: 25.6-41.7 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6
- Collapsed Rod Length: 22 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6
- Collapsed Rod Length: 21.7-25.2 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6-9
- Collapsed Rod Length: 15.8-18.1 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 5
- Collapsed Rod Length: 17 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6-9
- Collapsed Rod Length: 15-18.7 inches
- Blank Material: Fiberglass
- Number of Sections: 6
- Collapsed Rod Length: 17.9 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6
- Collapsed Rod Length: 17 inches
- Blank Material: Fiberglass
- Number of Sections: 5
- Collapsed Rod Length: 19-22.5 inches
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Number of Sections: 6-10
- Collapsed Rod Length: 16.1-16.9 inches
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Number of Sections: 6-9
- Collapsed Rod Length: 16.3-17.3 inches
- Blank Material: Composite
- Number of Sections: 6-8
- Collapsed Rod Length: 18.8-20.8 inches
🏆 OUR EDITOR’S Pick
Daiwa Megaforce Tele Spin
Best Telescopic Fishing Rods
- Durable Aluminum Body
- Versatile Sling Mounts
- Inline Bolt System
1. Daiwa Megaforce Tele Spin Telescopic Fishing Rod
Features:
At the top of the list is a remarkable telescopic fishing rod that stands out for its versatility in surf fishing – the Daiwa Megaforce Tele Spin. You might be curious as to why a surf rod takes precedence. The reason is simple: this telescopic surf rod surpasses the performance of most other rods on the list.
Foremost, it is incredibly rare to find telescopic rods that extend to 10 feet in length. As the ideal range for surf fishing rods is 10-12 feet, this rod offers a variety of lengths, ranging from 7.9 to 11.8 feet. It is worth noting that none of the other rods on the list even reach the 10-foot mark, highlighting the scarcity of rods in this range.
Moreover, despite its length, this rod constructed with carbon fiber material feels remarkably lightweight in your hands. Carbon fiber is known for being one of the lightest materials for rod blanks. However, don’t be deceived by its lightness – this rod exhibits impressive strength. I have successfully caught multiple fish weighing over 20 pounds with it.
In addition, the titanium oxide guides accompanying the rod are of exceptional quality. These guides offer smooth performance and exhibit high corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability.
To summarize, the Daiwa Megaforce Tele Spin ranks among the finest telescopic rods available. Its ability to cater to the specific lengths required for surf fishing sets it apart, making it the ultimate choice for surf anglers in need of a reliable telescopic fishing rod.
2. Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Pole Combo
Features:
The Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod, the epitome of durability, sturdiness, sensitivity, and user-friendliness in a high-quality telescopic fishing rod.
Crafted with top-notch materials, this rod offers everything you desire in a telescopic rod, including a smooth and high-quality spinning reel. I dare say, it has no equal on this planet.
I must admit, I’m amazed at how Kingswell managed to create such an exceptionally durable rod. While other telescopic fishing rods on Amazon often receive complaints about parts falling apart or flimsy construction, the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod stands apart. It boasts an impressive 85%+ 5-star ratings on Amazon, with many reviewers praising its durability. After personally testing this rod, I can confidently attest that those reviews were not exaggerating. I have no doubt that this reliable telescopic fishing rod will outlast any other in its category.
Furthermore, few, if any, other telescopic fishing rods in the world come with alignment lines on the sections. This convenient feature eliminates concerns about misaligning the guides on your rod.
In addition to its durability, the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod excels in delivering the desired characteristics of a telescopic rod – lightness and portability. With a collapsed length of only 22 inches and made with graphite, the lightest material for fishing rods, you won’t even notice the extra weight in your bag, making it ideal for travel.
And let’s not forget that graphite is renowned for being the most sensitive fishing rod material worldwide.
One of the standout features of Kingswell’s telescopic rod is its power rating. The hollowness of telescopic fishing rods often makes it challenging for them to be sturdy. That’s why not many claim to be medium-heavy rods. However, the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod proudly declares itself a medium-heavy rod – and lives up to the claim. With this rod, you’ll be able to catch large fish that most other telescopic rods struggle with.
To seal the deal, the rod comes with a high-quality spinning reel, featuring smooth performance courtesy of stainless steel ball bearings. Even the stainless steel guides and EVA handle leave little room for criticism. EVA handles are renowned for their excellence in fishing rods, while stainless steel guides offer a combination of durability and smoothness.
It’s important to note, however, that like all telescopic rods, it may not be suitable for handling monster fish.
Overall, the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod And Reel Combo undeniably reigns as the best telescopic fishing rod and reel set available. While it may be the second most expensive option on this list, the value it offers makes it a true bargain. If you refuse to settle for anything less than the best, look no further than this exceptional rod.
3. KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod
Features:
The KastKing Blackhawk II stands out with its composite blank, combining a sturdy fiberglass core with a sensitive graphite tip. This construction ensures that it possesses the same level of durability, sensitivity, lightness, and portability as the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod.
Similar to the Kingswell rod, the KastKing Blackhawk II is a high-quality option, featuring an EVA handle and stainless steel guides that meet satisfactory standards.
To be honest, the KastKing Blackhawk II almost surpassed the Kingswell rod in my evaluation. However, it lacks the user-friendly feature of alignment lines, which proved to be a drawback for some customers who experienced difficulties aligning the guides. Nonetheless, the KastKing Blackhawk II does have a notable advantage over the Kingswell rod – its heavy power rating.
In fact, the KastKing Blackhawk II is the only telescopic fishing rod I could find with a heavy power rating. This makes it the strongest telescopic rod on the market, catering to serious anglers who crave the challenge of landing larger fish.
It’s important to note that the KastKing Blackhawk II comes with a higher price tag, but it is worth every penny for its exceptional quality and performance.
4. Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Combo
Features:
If you’re working with a budget or simply prefer not to spend a significant amount, there’s no need to worry. The Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Combo offers a cost-effective option that is hard to match in terms of price.
However, don’t let the term “budget” mislead you into thinking that you’re compromising on quality. On the contrary, the Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Combo delivers satisfactory performance. It features an EVA handle that matches the quality of those used by Kingswell and KastKing, and its aluminum oxide guides even surpass the stainless steel guides of its counterparts. The spinning reel included in the combo is also smooth in operation.
Unfortunately, that’s where the similarities end. While the Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Rod also utilizes composite materials, it is of slightly lower quality. As a result, the rod tends to be stiffer and less sensitive. Consequently, it may not be suitable for catching fish weighing more than 5 pounds.
However, we were genuinely impressed by Plusinno’s customer service. Despite being a budget rod, they take customer satisfaction seriously. Plusinno truly cares about their customers, as evidenced by their prompt replacement of faulty parts or even entire rods at no cost. While it may lack in quality, it more than compensates with top-notch customer service.
All things considered, the Plusinno Fishing Combo’s rod may not be the best telescopic fishing rod available, but it gets the job done. Most importantly, it strikes a balance between cost and quality, providing you with everything you need at a bargain.
Before making your purchase, a word of caution: avoid the Full Kit option. The Full Kit includes a case, lures, and line in addition to the rod and reel. However, the case and the line are of low quality and not worth the extra cost. I strongly advise against opting for the Full Kit and recommend getting only the rod and reel.
5. Eagle Claw PK555SP Pack-It Telescopic Spinning Rod
Features:
The Eagle Claw PK555SP Pack-It is a popular choice among anglers, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a sturdy and well-built construction while being competitively priced.
Constructed with composite materials, the Eagle Claw Pack-It combines durability and sensitivity. Its EVA handle and ceramic guides outperform even stainless steel guides, showcasing its high-quality build.
In terms of collapsed length and lightness, it surpasses the previous three rods, which adds to its appeal.
However, it’s important to note a couple of slight drawbacks. Firstly, it may be less sensitive compared to the other higher-end rods on this list. Secondly, while it is durable, it may not match the unbeatable durability of the Kingswell Collapsible Fishing Rod.
Considering all factors, the Eagle Claw PK555SP Pack-It is an excellent telescopic fishing rod for casual anglers. If you primarily target panfish, this rod will more than meet your needs, eliminating the need to splurge on the pricier options in this list.
6. Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Pole
Features:
Introducing the Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Pole, our top choice for portability. I was genuinely impressed by the compact size I got for such an affordable price.
As you’ve probably come to expect, a glance at the features reveals its quality. Standing at a mere 15 inches, it secures the leading position in the category of portable fishing rods.
The best part? You get all these remarkable features for the price of just a few cups of coffee.
7. Lixada Pen Telescopic Rod And Reel Kit
Features:
For beginner anglers seeking a comprehensive telescopic fishing kit, the Lixada Pen Rod And Reel Kit is a fortunate find.
This complete fishing kit includes a telescopic fishing rod, a spinning reel, lures, hooks, bobbers, a carrying case, and even a line cutter. It offers everything you need to get started in one package.
In terms of weight, the fishing kit is designed to be light enough for easy portability without causing strain or discomfort.
The power of the rod is derived from its fiberglass construction, known for its sturdiness. This allows the rod to handle relatively large fish with ease.
Beginner anglers will find the comprehensiveness of this fishing kit highly beneficial, and its affordability adds further appeal.
8. KastKing Compass Telescopic Fishing Rod Combo
Features:
Another excellent choice for beginner anglers is the KastKing Compass Combo. This inexpensive telescopic rod is specifically designed to cater to beginners starting their fishing journey. While it may be slightly less sensitive and durable compared to the Eagle Claw PK555SP Pack-It, it offers a more budget-friendly option. For beginners, the slight difference in sensitivity and durability is unlikely to be noticeable or make a significant impact on their fishing experience. Therefore, whether they choose the Eagle Claw or the KastKing Compass, beginners will likely have a satisfying fishing experience.
For those beginners who prefer to have a rod and reel without the full kit, the KastKing Compass Combo serves as an excellent second option alongside the Lixada Pen. It provides a straightforward and accessible choice for beginners to begin their fishing adventures.
9. Zebco 33 Fishing Rod And Reel Combo
Features:
If price is a significant factor for you, then the Zebco 33 Rod And Reel Combo is a suitable choice.
This combo stands out as the most affordable option that still provides functionality. While there may be cheaper combos available, I have not included them due to either poor quality or a lack of sensitivity and durability.
Breaking down the components, the rod blank is constructed with durable fiberglass, ensuring reliability. The handle features comfortable EVA foam, allowing for a comfortable grip. The spinning reel offers a decent all-around gear ratio of 4.1:1.
While it may not boast the best specifications, the Zebco 33 Rod And Reel Combo will serve its purpose as a telescopic rod. It is the cheapest combo that maintains a level of durability, making it a better choice compared to even cheaper alternatives that may fall apart after only a few uses.
10. Goture Telescopic Rod
Features:
If you’re in need of a budget-friendly telescopic rod, the Goture Telescopic Pole is worth considering.
Similar to the Zebco 33, the Goture Telescopic Pole focuses on providing just enough features to function properly while keeping costs down.
One notable aspect of this rod is its collapsed length. Measuring at only 16 inches, it offers convenience and portability, making it easy to carry in your backpack or suitcase for impromptu fishing sessions.
While it may not stand out in terms of exceptional performance in other areas, the Goture Telescopic Pole delivers satisfactory results. Like the Zebco 33, it is the most affordable option that can withstand multiple fishing trips, ensuring it offers durability beyond just a few uses.
11. Magreel 24T Carbon Fiber Fishing Combo
Features:
Introducing the Magreel 24T Carbon Fiber Fishing Combo, a remarkable choice for those who prioritize smoothness in their fishing experience.
This combo stands out with its incredibly smooth reel, which features an impressive 12+1 ball bearings. Even among high-end spinning reels, it is rare to find anything beyond 10+1 ball bearings.
While it’s important to note that the ball bearings used may not be of the highest quality, the Magreel 24T Carbon Fiber Fishing Combo still delivers exceptional smoothness due to the 12+1 ball bearings. If you value a smooth reel above all else, this rod and reel combo is an excellent choice for you.
12. Troutboy Black Warrior Combo
Features:
Introducing the Troutboy Black Warrior Combo, featuring the only ultralight telescopic rod we could find.
Ultralight rods are ideal for fishing panfish and smaller fish, as they offer exceptional sensitivity that can make even small fish feel like a thrilling challenge. However, transmitting every action in the water through the rod can be challenging, particularly with telescopic rods that have multiple sections. Remarkably, the Troutboy Black Warrior manages to maintain excellent sensitivity despite its telescopic design. As the only ultralight telescopic rod available on the market, this combo becomes the go-to choice for those seeking an ultralight setup.
What Is A Telescopic Fishing Rod?
When I hear the term “telescope,” I envision a device used for observing distant objects by extending and collapsing its cylindrical sections.
In the context of fishing, telescopic fishing rods function similarly to telescopes. They can be extended to their full length for casting and retracted or collapsed for convenient storage and transport.
Telescopic rods have gained popularity due to their versatility and portability. The ability to extend and collapse the rod at will is undoubtedly appealing to many anglers.
However, it is essential to understand that there are significant differences between traditional fishing rods and telescopic rods. Familiarizing yourself with these differences is crucial for making an informed decision about which type of rod is best suited to your needs.
Telescopic Vs Traditional Fishing Rod
Indeed, there are three main differences to consider when comparing telescopic fishing rods to traditional fishing rods.
- Cost: Telescopic fishing rods tend to be more affordable than traditional fishing rods. The collapsible design requires less material, making them cheaper to produce.
- Weight: Telescopic rods are generally lighter than traditional rods due to their hollow construction. This makes them easier to handle and carry, particularly during travel or hiking trips.
- Durability: While telescopic rods offer convenience and portability, they are typically less durable than traditional rods. The hollowness of telescopic rods can make them more susceptible to breakage, particularly when used to catch larger or more powerful fish.
To help you make an informed decision, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the advantages and disadvantages of telescopic fishing rods below. This will enable you to weigh the pros and cons and select the rod that best suits your fishing needs.
Advantages Of Telescopic Fishing Rods
Here are all the reasons why people like telescopic fishing rods.
Convenience
Indeed, one of the significant advantages of telescopic fishing rods is their portability and ease of transportation. Their collapsible design allows them to be compact and easily fit into backpacks, bags, or even smaller storage spaces. This convenience means you can bring your telescopic rod with you wherever you go, whether it’s hiking, camping, or traveling to different fishing spots. The ability to have your fishing rod readily available and compactly stored is a valuable feature for anglers on the move.
Portability
Indeed, telescopic fishing rods offer a great solution for anglers who need a portable and compact option. These rods are designed to collapse down to a much smaller size, making them convenient for travel, particularly when flying or when space is limited. Whether you’re going on an overseas trip or simply want the flexibility to fish in various locations, a telescopic fishing rod allows you to easily pack and carry it with ease. It’s a practical and convenient choice for anglers who want to explore new fishing spots or enjoy fishing while traveling.
Mobility
Telescopic rods are highly portable and easy to carry. Their collapsible design allows you to walk without worrying about the rod tip or butt scraping the ground, making them suitable for fishing in various terrains.
Lightweight
Telescopic rods are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for travel. Unlike full-size rods or even two-piece rods, telescopic rods can easily fit in a regular-sized luggage, saving you from oversized luggage fees and providing more convenience during your travels.
Collapsed Durability
When collapsed, telescopic rods are more durable due to the reinforced layers. This means they can withstand accidental drops and impacts better than regular rods. You won’t have to worry as much about damaging your rod during transportation or everyday use.
Affordability
Telescopic rods are generally more affordable compared to traditional rods. Additionally, since they don’t require a separate hard case for storage, you can save money on accessories and invest it in other fishing gear or experiences.
Great Backup Rods
Telescopic rods serve as excellent backup options. Whether you unexpectedly come across a fishing spot or if your primary rod breaks during a fishing trip, having a telescopic rod as a backup ensures that you can continue fishing without disruptions.
Less Hassle
Telescopic rods allow you to keep them rigged with lures or hooks even when collapsed. This saves you time and hassle, as you can quickly get started fishing once you reach your desired fishing spot.
Overall, telescopic fishing rods offer convenience, portability, and durability, making them a practical choice for anglers who value mobility and flexibility in their fishing adventures.
Disadvantages Of Telescopic Fishing Rods
Now let’s move on to the stuff you might not want to hear, but should know.
Prone To Human Error
You’re correct that telescopic fishing rods may be less durable compared to traditional rods. While a well-built telescopic rod can still be reliable, it’s important to handle them with care to avoid damage. Human error, such as forcefully expanding or collapsing the rod like a collapsible baton, can lead to damage and potentially render the rod unusable. Incorrectly closing and opening the rod can also contribute to its deterioration. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and maintaining a telescopic fishing rod to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Difficulty With Aligning Guides
You’ll also need to ensure the guides are aligned. Otherwise, your rod could break due to uneven distribution of tension. Not just that, if you don’t align the guides properly, you’ll have trouble controlling your fishing line.
Collapsibility Issues
You’re absolutely right. Telescopic fishing rods are susceptible to dents and creases, especially if they are dropped or mishandled. These dents or creases can hinder the smooth retraction of the rod, making it difficult or impossible to collapse properly.
In addition, dirt, sand, and dust can accumulate between the sections of a telescopic rod, especially if used in outdoor environments. Cleaning these sections thoroughly can be challenging, and the buildup of debris can affect the functionality of the rod.
Moreover, natural factors such as dust and corrosion can also contribute to the deterioration of a telescopic fishing rod over time. It’s important to properly clean and maintain your telescopic rod to minimize the impact of these factors and ensure its longevity. Regular inspection and cleaning, as well as storing the rod in a protective case, can help prevent damage and maintain its performance.
Slow Action
A valid point about the sensitivity of telescopic fishing rods. Due to their multiple sections and collapsible design, telescopic rods can be less sensitive compared to traditional one-piece or multi-piece rods. When the tip of a telescopic rod bends, it can transmit that bending motion to the rest of the sections, reducing sensitivity and making it more challenging to feel subtle bites or detect underwater movements.
However, advancements in technology have helped address this issue to some extent. Some telescopic rods, including those featured in our top 12 list, are designed with fast action. Fast action rods have a stiffer tip section that allows for better sensitivity and quicker response when a fish bites. This improved action helps compensate for the inherent sensitivity limitations of telescopic rods, allowing anglers to detect and respond to bites more effectively.
While telescopic rods may not offer the same level of sensitivity as other types of rods, the inclusion of fast action models provides anglers with options to enhance their fishing experience and increase sensitivity while using telescopic rods.
How To Choose The Right Telescopic Fishing Rod
Now that you’ve decided you want to get a telescopic fishing rod, here’s everything you should consider to choose the right one for you.
Collapsed Length
The first thing to think about is the size of the telescopic fishing rod when it is folded up and when it is fully extended. Collapsible rods are great because they can fit into small bags, but that doesn’t mean they will fit into every bag. You should consider where you will be carrying the rod, such as in a backpack, suitcase, or luggage.
The whole idea of a telescopic fishing rod is to make it easy to take with you wherever you go. If it doesn’t fit in the bag you want to use, then it defeats the purpose of having a telescopic rod. If you plan to use a suitcase, you won’t have any issues. However, if you plan to use a backpack, I recommend measuring the dimensions of your backpack and choosing a telescopic fishing rod that will fit inside.
Extended Length
The next thing to think about is the length of the telescopic fishing rod when it is fully extended. Longer rods generally allow for longer casting distances. For surf fishing, you’ll need longer rod lengths, such as at least 8 ft for panfish, 10 ft for larger fish, and 12 ft for very large fish. However, it’s important to note that telescopic fishing rods are not as strong as traditional rods.
Even if you find a 12 ft rod that can cast far, it may not be very durable and could break easily. I would recommend sticking with a maximum length of 10 ft. If you’re not fishing in the surf, the extended length of the rod may not be as important. You can focus more on the collapsed length to help you choose the right telescopic fishing rod.
Number Of Sections
When it comes to the number of sections in a telescopic fishing rod, there is no strict rule to follow.
Having more sections allows the rod to retract to a shorter length, making it more compact and easier to transport.
However, it’s important to consider that with more sections, there is also a greater chance for damage or issues. Each section is a potential point of dent or crease, which can affect the rod’s performance and durability.
If you’re not planning to surf fish, I recommend choosing a telescopic rod that can fit into your backpack or luggage. Opt for a rod with fewer sections to minimize the risk of damage. Remember, for non-surf fishing, you don’t necessarily need a long rod, so focus on portability.
If you are planning to surf fish and prefer a shorter collapsed rod, you may need to choose a rod with more sections. Keep in mind that having fewer sections will result in a longer collapsed length. Ultimately, the decision on the number of sections comes down to personal preference, so there is no “wrong” choice.
Action And Power
One common complaint about telescopic rods is their lack of sensitivity.
With more sections in a telescopic rod, it becomes difficult for the tip to bend without affecting the other sections. This results in slower action rods. To overcome this, it is recommended to choose fast action rods, which offer better sensitivity.
When it comes to rod power, it depends on the size of the fish you’re targeting. For panfish, a medium power rod is usually sufficient. For larger fish, a medium-heavy power rod is recommended. If you’re unsure or want to be cautious due to the perceived flimsiness of telescopic rods, it’s safer to choose a medium-heavy power rod even for panfish.
Ultimately, the choice of rod action and power depends on personal preference and the specific fishing conditions you’ll encounter. It’s important to consider the type of fish you’ll be targeting and the desired sensitivity of your rod.
Reel Seat
The reel seat is an important consideration when choosing a telescopic fishing rod.
It’s crucial to ensure that the reel seat is of high quality and not prone to cracking. Look for reel seats made of durable materials such as aluminum or stainless steel.
If you’ll be fishing in saltwater, it’s even more important to select a reel seat that is corrosion-resistant. Aluminum reel seats are highly recommended for their corrosion resistance and durability. Stainless steel reel seats are also a good choice, although aluminum is known to be more resistant to corrosion.
Carbon fiber reel seats are another option, offering a lightweight design. However, it’s important to note that carbon fiber is generally less durable than aluminum. If you prioritize lightness in your telescopic fishing rod, then a carbon fiber reel seat may be a suitable choice for you.
Final Verdict
Telescopic fishing rods are indeed lightweight, convenient, and affordable, making them ideal as backup or travel rods.
However, it is true that telescopic rods have a reputation for being fragile and prone to breaking easily.
But fear not, because I have discovered a truly remarkable telescopic fishing rod that breaks the mold. The Kingswell Collapsible Rod And Reel Combo is the epitome of quality, durability, and performance in the world of telescopic fishing rods.
Now that you have found the perfect telescopic fishing rod, enjoy your fishing adventures to the fullest! And if you are in need of any other fishing tackle, be sure to check out our comprehensive compilation of the best fishing tackle available.