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 geart 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.
Table of Contents
Comparison of 7 Best Spinning Rods in 2019
| Image | Product Name | Features | Latest Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod |
| Check Price |
 | Daiwa HR762MLFS Harrier Inshore Spinning Rod |
| Check Price |
 | St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rods |
| Check Price |
 | KastKing Perigee II Fishing Spinning Rods |
| Check Price |
 | Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod |
| Check Price |
 | Okuma Scott Martin Rods |
| Check Price |
 | Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rods |
| Check Price |
Top 7 Best Spinning Rod Reviews in 2019
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.
- Premium cork handle provides a comfortable grip
- The stainless-steel line guides offer durability while eliminating the aggravation of insert pop-outs
- Clear-tip design is compatible with monofilament and braided line
- Exposed blank reel seat includes cushioned, stainless-steel hoods that keep your reel firmly in place – no slipping or sliding around while you fight a big fish
- Ugly Tech Construction provides flexibility and strength for the best combination in an ultralight spinning reel
- The reel seat is small and will not hold all models of spinning reels
2. 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.
- Graphite fiber construction offers the perfect combination of strength and sensitivity
- Features a full, natural cork handle for comfort and grip
- Features Fuji aluminum oxide line guides for smoother casting and durability
- Compatible with 6-12 # test fishing line
- Suitable for catching saltwater trout and Redfish
- 1-piece design makes it more difficult to transport
3. 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.
- Aluminum oxide line guides featuring corrosion-resistant frames
- Split-grip cork handle for comfort and grip
- Each rod is hand-crafted and designed for superior performance in saltwater
- Hook-keeper to keep your hook from snagging clothing or carpeting during transport and storage
- Premium SCII graphite for strength and flexibility
- Some anglers state the Mojo is a little unbalanced
4. 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 vison 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.
- Constructed of 24-ton carbon matrix KastFlex technology that provides the utmost in strength, accuracy, and durability
- You get 2 fishing rods for the price of one – includes 2 rod tips giving you more choices
- Suitable for most types of fishing including bass, trout, and catfish
- Fuji O-ring line guides for smooth casting and corrosion resistance
- EVA foam handles for comfort during long days on the water
- Includes a Saf-T-Keeper hook holder to prevent accidental hook sticks
- Some anglers noted that the tip breaks easily
5. 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.
- Constructed with 40-ton graphite for a lightweight rod that is sensitive enough to capture that first nibble
- The rod is carbon wrapped for durability, corrosion resistance, and strength
- You will get smooth casting from the rust-resistant stainless-steel guides with SIC inserts
- The handle is made of premium cork and EVA foam to provide maximum comfort during the cast and the fight
- Quality Fuji reel seat keeps your reel firmly in place
- The most common complaint is the tip breaking during the fight
6. 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.
- Designed by pro bass fisherman, Scott Martin, winner of the FLW (Fishing League Worldwide) Cup and FLW Angler of the Year
- Compatible with monofilament, braid, and fluorocarbon line
- EVA foam split-grip handle provides more comfort and more control over your rod
- Stainless-steel line guides with aluminum oxide inserts for durability and line options
- Hook keeper keeps your hook secure and out of the way during transport and storage
- May not be suitable for saltwater fishing
7. 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.
- Fuji SS line guides with aluminum oxide inserts work well with any type of line, including braided line
- Premium cork handles offer the ultimate in grip while casting or fighting the big one
- 100% graphite offers incredible sensitivity, flexibility, and strength
- Fuji reel seats secure your reel so there is no movement while casting or retrieving
- Holds 8-15 # test line
- 1-piece rod will not break down for transport and storage
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 affect.
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.
Final Thoughts
These seven 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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