Best Spinning Rods of 2020 – Complete Top Buyer’s Guide

Simply put, a spinning rod is a rod that holds a spinning reel. If the type of fishing you do requires constant casting, the spinning reel may be the best option for you. The spinning reel allows you to get a consistently well-placed cast. The best spinning rod is the great option to combine with your spinning reel. Your reel will attach to a casting rod; however, your casting distance will not be as great.

The same applies for using a casting reel on a spinning rod. If you choose to purchase a combination rod – one that comes already assembled – the guess work is taken out of the equation. But if you choose to purchase rod and reel separately, it is vital to understand the different types of rods and which reel works best.

Comparison of 10 Best Spinning Rods in 2020

IMAGE	NAME	FEATURES	PRICE
	Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod	Length: 4’6″ Power: Ultra-light Weight: 8.8 ounces Material: Composite	Check Price
	St. Croix Spinning Rods	Length: 7’6″ Power: Medium Material: SCII Graphite	Check Price
	Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod	Length: 4’6″ Power: Ultra Light Weight: 113 g Material: Graphite	Check Price
	SHIMANO Solora Spinning Rod	Length: 5’6″ Power: Medium Weight: 6-14 pounds Material: Graphite Warranty: 1 Year limited warranty	Check Price
	Abu Garcia Ike Dude Rod	Length: 6′ Power: Medium Weight: 11.2 ounces Material: Graphite	Check Price
	Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod	Length: 5’10” Power: Medium Weight: 1.76 ounces Material: Composite	Check Price
	Okuma Scott Martin Rods	Length: 6’9″ Power: Medium-Heavy Weight: 4.6 ounces Material: Carbon Fiber	Check Price
	KastKing Perigee II Rods	Length: 6’7″ Power: Medium Weight: 3.7 pounds Material: Carbon Fiber	Check Price
	Penn Battalion Spinning Rods	Length: 7’6″ Power: Medium-Light Weight: 3 pounds Material: Graphite	Check Price
	Daiwa Harrier Spinning Rod	Length: 6’6″ Power: Medium/Light Power Weight: 0.64 ounces Material: Graphite Fiber	Check Price

Top 10 Best Spinning Rod Reviews in 2020

1. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod

The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod is one of the best ultralight spinning rods on the market. This 4’6”, one-piece fishing rod features 35% more graphite than the Ugly Stik GX2 for an ultralight rod that is sensitive enough to detect the smallest bite and strong enough to get your catch in.

Ugly Stik is a line of fishing rods from the Shakespeare Company. Shakespeare was founded in 1897 and has been providing anglers with high-quality, affordable fishing tackle for over 115 years. The Ugly Stik was first introduced in 1976 and was the first rod to feature a clear tip and the Howald Process construction that makes it almost indestructible.

2. St Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rods

Saltwater fishing requires tougher tackle. Not only are the fish often larger and stronger, but you must take into consideration the salt spray that is always present when saltwater fishing. Based in Park Falls, Wisconsin, St. Croix of Park Falls, LTD was founded in 1948 and is one of the largest manufacturers of fishing rods in the US.

Each St. Croix fishing rod is constructed of premium graphite fiber to provide the strength and flexibility that you need in a fishing rod. If you are searching for one of the best saltwater spinning rods, be sure to consider the St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod.

3. Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod from Wood

Modern-looking spinning rod, that comes in four different sizes and is made with durable aluminum and stainless steel material that has been reported not to rust even if used in saltwater with prolonged use.

Moreover the manufacturer has included a nylon carrying case that will protect the spinning rod from getting scratched plus the carrying case can be easily washed in the washing machine as the nylon material is very durable.

Also, customers who have purchased this Shakespeare Micro spinning reel have reported it to be great for catching small fish such as seabass to large species such as salmon and tuna. Lastly this Shakespeare Micro spinning rod can be virtually used with any spinning reel provided that the size of the spinning reel will be compatible with the corresponding model of this spinning reel.

4. Shimano Solora Spinning Rod Best for Fishing

Shimano Solora 2 Piece Spinning Rod comes with a durable handle and pre coated body from rusting and corrosion plus the manufacturer offers periodic servicing at an small additional price. Moreover, there is a two-month return back period as well as a 1-year warranty period for major spinning rod defects.

However, customers who have purchased this model of spinning rod before have reported the rod to be solid and durable thus suitable to be used in freshwater and saltwater alike but some individuals did still complain that the Shimano spinning rod is too heavy to use and cast.

Lastly, the customers who have already previously used this spinning rod reported that it is very easy to set up plus the manufacturer has included a very clear instruction booklet in the packaging box.

5. Abu Garcia Ike Dude Spinning Reel and Rod Combo

Lastly, we have the Abu Garcia spinning reel and rod combo which will be a great deal as your will get a 2 in 1 offer. Moreover the manufacturer has ensured that only American stainless steel is used for the fishing rod.

Furthermore, this model of fishing rod will serve you for years to come as it is made from two ball bearing system that has been reported to be very lightweight yet strong enough to pull out even the heaviest of fish.

Also, it comes with a nylon carrying case that will help you protect the fishing rod from scratches and scuffs when it will not being use. Plus, don’t forget to rinse the fishing rod after every use just as a precaution in order to reduce the chance of the rod rusting or corroding with time.

You can use a thin layer of any lubricant and dry microfiber cloth to polish the fishing rod and add a protective layer just make sure you purchase a special lubricant designed to be used with fishing rods.

6. Cadence CR7 Best Spinning Rod

Whether you fish for freshwater trout or the saltwater speckled trout, the one common denominator is having the best spinning rod for trout fishing. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends a lightweight casting or spinning rod around 6 feet in length loaded with 4-6 # test monofilament line.

You can use live bait, such as worms, or artificial lures to attract the trout that can be found in rivers, streams, and lakes. The Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod is one of the best spinning rods for trout on the market.

The company was created to eliminate the middle man and sell their products directly to the angler via their website. Cadence is dedicated to providing quality products at affordable prices, and they don’t stop there. A portion of all profits is used to develop the next generation of anglers by teaching kids how to fish.

7. Okuma Scott Martin Tournament Concept Spinning Rods

The Okuma Scott Martin Tournament Concept Rod is one of the best spinning rods for bass fishing reel. Designed by professional bass fisherman, Scott Martin, this Okuma Concept rod has all the bells and whistles the bass angler wants and needs. This 6’9” medium power rod provides lots of action for that one-of-a-lifetime trophy bass for your wall.

Located in Ontario, Canada, Okuma provides quality fishing products for fishermen of all experience levels can have an exciting and successful fishing adventure. For most anglers, fishing is a lifetime journey filled with many rewards and new friendships. Whether you are an entry-level or expert angler, you can count on Okuma to provide the tools you need.

8. KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods

If you are going on a trip and you know you will be fishing, you want to have the best travel spinning rod. The KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod is available in a 1 or 2-piece design. The 2-piece design allows you to break your rod down for easy transport to all your favorite fishing spots – near or far.

A relatively new company, KastKing was the brain child of several college buddies for whom fishing was their favorite down time endeavor. The vision of the team at KastKing is to help people make lasting memories of fun fishing experiences by providing fishing products geared around innovation, quality material, and the latest technology has to offer.

9. Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rods

Since 1932, the name Penn has been synonymous with fishing. The company’s first recorded sale was in 1933, when a gentleman purchased two fishing reels – the Sea Hawk for $1.21 and the Long Beach for $2.48. If only we could purchase a Penn reel for that price today! The Senator, the most famous reel from the Penn Fishing Tackle Manufacturing Company was introduced in 1936 – and, as they say, the rest is history.

Continuing the founder’s dream of providing the fishing world with the highest quality fishing tackle, the Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod is one of the best spinning rods for the money. Perfect for brackish and inshore fishing, this 100% graphite rod is lightweight yet strong enough to get that big catch in.

10. Daiwa HR762MLFS Harrier Inshore Spinning Rod

One of the best inshore spinning rods is the Daiwa Harrier Inshore Spinning Rod. From a trusted name in the fishing industry, the 1-piece, 6’6” fishing rod from the Harrier series provides medium power and fast action for the ultimate inshore fishing experience.

Daiwa introduced their first spinning reel in Japan in 1955. In 1966, Daiwa Corporation opened for US sales and distribution in California. Today, Daiwa is one of the most recognizable and trusted names in the fishing tackle industry. Daiwa Corporation distributes and sells innovative and quality products in the US as well as Central and South America and Canada.

Type of Fishing Rods

There are several types of fishing rods to choose from. As mentioned above, the rod you choose most often depends on the type of reel you choose. Below is a list of a few different types of fishing rods and their uses.

1. Spinning Rod

The spinning rod is the most common type used by amateur fishermen. They are easier to use and work well when casting and retrieving are a large part of the action. Spinning rods are smaller and lighter than casting rods. They are commonly used for trout, bass, pike, walleye, and saltwater fish such as Spanish mackerel and bluefish.

On a spinning rod, the reel hangs from the bottom of the fishing rod and the line moves through the eyes. Most have one large eye near the reel and tapering eyes to the end of the rod. One of the greatest advantages of the spinning rod is you can hold your rod in your dominant hand (left or right), which gives you more control over your cast and retrieval.

2. Casting Rod

Casting rods, or spin cast rods, work best with casting reels – more commonly known as a close-face reel. These are the easiest to master and are perfect for kids and beginning fishermen. Different from the spinning rod, the reel is mounted above the handle rather than hanging from the handle. Casting rods can be used for fishing in lakes and rivers.

3. Fly Rods

This rod is specifically designed for fly fishing. A fly rod uses an extremely lightweight lure (artificial fly) tied to heavy line. The line needs to be heavy so that it sinks under the water, leaving only the lure exposed. Fly rods are most commonly used for trout, carp, bass, salmon, and pike.

Features of a Spinning Rod

When choosing a spinning rod, there are different features to consider. Your success can depend on finding the right balance of length, action, power, and composition. The type of fishing you will be doing will play a vital role in the type of rod you choose.

1. Power

Power is a measuring scale that pertains to the lifting power or strength of a rod. Fishing rods can be designated as light, medium, medium-heavy, or heavy. Lighter rods should be used for smaller lures and smaller line. Heavy rods should be used for larger fish that require larger lures or heavy bait, heavier line, and are heavier to lift.

2. Action

The action of a rod describes how much the rod bends when pressure is put on the tip. The action can be described as fast, medium, moderate, or slow. A fast-action rod does not have very much give, so only the top third of the rod bends when you catch a fish. More of the rod bends the slower the action, making the slow action rods the most flexible.

3. Length

The length of the rod can have a couple of effects on fishing. If you use a lure of the same size on a short and long rod, the long rod casts further. However, the short rod is more accurate. The type of fishing you do will determine the length you need. Use a short rod if precision casting is needed and a long rod for casting in more open areas.

4. Material

Fishing rods are generally made from the following three materials – graphite, fiberglass, or composite materials. Fiberglass is heavier and tougher. Graphite rods are light and more sensitive but break easier. Composite materials combine both graphite and fiberglass for a meet-in-the-middle effect.

Again, the type of fishing may play a role in your choice. If you need a more sensitive rod that allows you to detect the smallest of bites, graphite is what you need. If you are fishing for larger fish and do not have to feel the bite, you can use the stronger fiberglass fishing rod.

Also Read: Best Baitcasting Reel Under 100 in 2020 – Expert Buying Guide & Reviews

Final Thoughts

These ten spinning rods are some of the best spinning rods on the market today. There are so many great choices, I have no doubt you will find the one that is perfect for you. Each angler is different. Some are brand specific and only purchase specific, tried and true brands. My dad used the same brand his entire life. Myself, I like to experiment and try new things.

Especially when I can find the best spinning rod for under $100. It’s all in the action and the durability – price tag does not mean everything. Fishing most often is a lifetime endeavor. That is why it is so important to find a fishing rod that offers balance, strength, and just the right amount of action. Since most anglers spend long hours on the water, comfort is also a huge factor.

I can’t tell you how many times I have come home with blisters on my hands after hours of fishing with a rod that was not the best one for the job. Most of all, remember that fishing is supposed to be fun, an adventure, and a way to bond with friends and family. Fish responsibly, fish safely, but, most of all, FISH!

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