Do you think fishing is like gambling? Do you think you need to be lucky ?
If your answer is yes, we insist you read our article which is the Practical Guide to The Best Surf Fishing Rod You Need Today.
You’re not entirely wrong as still, you need some luck but catching fish is not completely related to fate. With better equipment and experience, you can become a master fisherman. Only then, you’ll realize that fishing is not gambling.
Based on the place of fishing, there are several types, and surf fishing is one of them. The fishing rod is one of the main components for successful fishing. Here, we’ll give you the guidance to choose the best surf fishing rod.
You’ll see this article divided into 2 main parts.
1st part : Best rated surf rods reviews
2nd part : Best surf fishing rod buying guide
But you’ll find small yet effective and valuable information from the beginning to the end of this practical guide.
Some Basic Info for New Anglers |
What is Surf FishingIf you’re catching fish standing on the shoreline, it is considered surf fishing. It’s a sport according to Wikipedia but you can take it as a hobby if you want. Why Do You Need a Surf Casting Rod?For surf fishing , one needs to cast further than other types of fishing or surf rod casting techniques. That’s why you’ll need to surf fishing rods which are perfect for this kind of fishing and heavy-lifting. Surf casting rods with greater lengths increase the odds of catching fishes. |
Surf Fishing Rods DescribedStanding on the surf area, you need to cast the bait or lure beyond the crashing waves. So, surf casting rods are specially made to perform this type of task. You’ll find that surf rods are longer than other types ; Generally , 7 to 15 feet in length. It is recommended to get a rod that has a length in between 9 to 12 feet. These rods are also made to catch heavy fishes and perform under continuous saltwater exposure. Here, you’ll find 10 best rods for surf fishing reviews. |
“After investing countless hours in research and consideration, we’ve come up with 3 surf fishing rods that are perfect in 3 different categories.”
Our Best Pick for Your Convenience |
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Best Deal for Rod & Reel Combo |
PENN Battle II Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo |
Our Rating: 8.7/10 |
The Reason: Perfect high-quality combo with a reasonable price Durable and well-built for saltwater and harsh weather |
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Best Deal for Long Range Casting |
St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rods |
Our Rating: 8.6/10 |
The Reason: Lightweight yet durable and capable of heavy performance with an ultra-smooth finish |
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Best Deal for Long Range Casting Under Budget |
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod |
Our Rating: 8.5/10 |
The Reason: Nothing as good as this one under $100 The high-quality rod that will last many years |
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Those 3 surf fishing rod reviews are written below along with a a complete guide to choosing the best rod for surf fishing. |
There are some factors about fishing rods. If you know where to look, you’ll know if the rod is good for you or not. After passing each factor, we’ve short-listed 10 rods for your kind consideration.
1st Part:10 best surf fishing rods review
Before you begin reading the reviews, let’s check out a quick comparison list below. It’ll save you a lot of time and effort.
“A quick comparison of the best fishing rods for surf”
Product Name | Length | Editor Rating | Interested? |
---|---|---|---|
PENN Battle II Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo | 7 feet | 8.7 | |
St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rods | 9 feet | 8.6 | |
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod | 12 Feet | 8.5 | |
Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 2-Piece Fishing Rod | 12 feet | 7.9 | |
Penn Spinfisher V & VI Spinning Reel & Rod Combo | 10 feet | 7.9 | |
Penn Prevail Surf Spinning Fishing Rod | 10 feet | 7.8 | |
Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods | 12 feet | 7.5 | |
Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod | 10 feet 6 inches | 7.4 | |
Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 4-Piece Fishing Rod | 12 feet | 7.3 | |
Shakespeare Two-Piece Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod | 15 feet | 7.2 |
Let’s begin our review. You’ll find some valuable information regarding surf fishing rods in between the reviews.
You can skip this surf fishing rod reviews part if you’re that kind of miner who skips gems while mining.
1. PENN Battle II Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
♦ Our Rating: 8.6 out of 10
Product Quick Specification
Length |
: 7 feet |
Weight |
: 347 grams |
Drag Material |
: HT-100 carbon fibre |
Mono Capacity (yd./lb.) |
: 200/8, 165/10, 120/12 |
Braid Capacity (yd./lb.) |
: 250/15 180/20 130/30 |
Max Drag Capacity |
: 15 lbs. |
Number of Bearings |
: 5+1 |
Gear Ratio |
: 6.2 : 1 |
Warranty |
: 1-year |
Features
The body, side plate, and rotor are constructed with metal to withstand rough and tough conditions.
The ball bearings are shielded with stainless steel to serve for many years of use. It has a total of 6 bearings.
The ant reverse system, metal construction, carbon fibre front drag, spool with a rubber gasket, backless design, quick retrieval gear ratio, and spinning reel mechanism with heavy-duty aluminum bail wire makes the whole experience smooth.
The powerful drag of this rod comes from the reel’s HT-100 Versa-Drag carbon fibre drag system.
The spool is made by machining and anodized aluminum and the rod is made of graphite composite.
Pros |
Cons |
Very durable for its build material Rubber lining makes it stable Smooth and steady retrieval is ensured by an advanced rotor Ant reverse bearing mechanism The powerful drag of 15 lbs. Performs well after being exposed in saltwater |
Feels a bit heavy Reported issues of wind knots and rough retrievals |
Our Opinion
The PENN Battle 2 series is the best combo under budget. Overall, the combo serves the purpose but the parts and components are not perfect individually. What we mean is that you should not expect this as the perfect surf fishing rod.
If you’re looking something that you can use right after opening the package, this one is for you. But if you’re a perfectionist, you should buy the components separately. In that case, you’ll find many awesome rods down below of our review section.
Pro Tip Did you know that Pro anglers consider between 10 to 12 feet is the ideal length of a surf fishing rod? To know more about rod’s length, please read our buying guide on the 2nd part of this article. |
2.St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod
♦ Our Rating: 8.6 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 9 feet |
Weight |
: 10.2 ounces |
Rod Material |
: Premium SCII graphite |
Power |
: Medium |
Action |
: Moderate |
Line Weight |
: 10-20 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 1-4 ounces |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 5 years |
Features
The rod is made of high-quality SCII graphite and the body is well designed to perform like a one-piece rod though it is a two-piece fishing rod.
It’s very long and can cast very far but weighs very little. The zirconium rings are guides along with black frames.
The handlebar gives you grip, comfort, and durability with style.
St. Croix has exclusive IPC technology which ensures smoother actions, increased strength, and greater sensitivity.
Their ART technology increases the strength of the main body without increasing weight.
The FRS or Fortified Resin System makes it durable against time and temperature.
Pros |
Cons |
High performing advanced technologies like IPC, ART, FRS, and TET Well build for both freshwater and saltwater fishing Precise and responsive for a long range but feels very light |
A lot of packaging complaints Durability issue |
Our Opinion
If you’re a serious angler, this one is highly recommended for you. There are some issues we’ve seen from customers but those are not serious. Those are mainly packaging and transportation-related issues which can be solved easily by complaining.
Otherwise, the performance of this surf fishing rod is undoubtedly good. St. Croix is making fishing equipment since 1945. Throughout their years of success, they’ve developed many techniques that helped make one of the best rods in this industry.
3. Shakespeare Ugly StikBigwater Spinning Rod
♦ Our Rating : 8.5out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 12 feet |
Rod Material |
: Premium SCII graphite |
Power |
: Medium |
Action |
: Moderate |
Line Weight |
: 20-40 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 2-12 ounces |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 5 years |
Features
It’s capable of fishing heavy one with its durable and tough fishing rod constructed with a combination of graphite and fibreglass.
For added responsiveness and strength, you’ll get clear tip design on Ugly Stik fishing rods.
The body is lightweight and comfortable to hold the rod with a lightweight EVA grip.
It’s a 1-piece stainless steel rod which ensures that it doesn’t break like others.
Pros |
Cons |
Great fishing rod with durability and comfort No risk of insert pop-ups Lightweight and stylish Capable of heavy lifting |
Lure rating is not satisfactory A possibility of lead contamination |
Our Opinion
Want to reach out than others and be a proud angler? Having budget issues? This one is perfect for you. Without compromising the quality much, you won’t get a better deal than the rods from Shakespeare.
It’s lightweight, stylish, comfortable, and durable at the same time. See the reviews and decide for yourself.
Pro Tip >Did you know that Pro anglers consider medium-heavy rods give versatile options while surf fishing? To know more about rod’s power, please read our buying guide on the 2nd part of this article. |
4. Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
♦Our Rating: 7.9 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 12 feet |
Weight |
: 17.85 ounces |
Rod Material |
: Carbon |
Power |
: Heavy |
Action |
: Moderate-fast |
Line Weight |
: 20-40 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 4-8 ounces |
Guides |
: 5+1 |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
The body construction is improved using carbon fibre. It enabled increased sensitivity and more action. The toughness and smoothness will allow you for boat fishing too.
The guides are made of stainless steel mixed with ceramic. This way, those are smooth and strong for long casting. The guides are ensured to be aligned perfectly.
Non-slip rubber shrink tube handle make feel comfortable and steady while casting the lure or bait.
The whole rod is designed carefully to balance weight and smooth performance. It’s lightweight and looks very slick.
The reel seat is protected by stainless steel tapered hood all the way.
Pros |
Cons |
Carbon fibre strengthens the body Precise and well-aligned guide Very sensitive and smooth Long range casting with 12 feet rod Durable, comfortable, and stylish |
A bit too heavy to hold for a long time No way to use a lightweight lure |
Our Opinion
The range Fiblink surf fishing rod provides is very impressive. The response, sensitivity, and strength of this rod will stun you as it’s inexpensive considering the features. Winning many anglers heart, this spinning rod will not disappoint you.
Read Also: 5 Best Spinning Rods: Honest Reviews with Buying Guide
5. Penn Prevail Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
♦Our Rating: 7.8 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 10 feet |
Rod Material |
: Carbon |
Power |
: Medium Heavy |
Action |
: Fast |
Line Weight |
: 15-30 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 1-5 ounces |
Guides |
: 5+1 |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
Using graphite and fibreglass, the rod becomes more lightweight, strong, and durable.
The rod has 2 pieces which are strong and makes it easier to carry to the beach.
For security and protection layer, it has a carbon fibre layer on the outside which also brings more durability.
To attach the reel firmly and avoid wobble or play, it has DPS graphite reel seat.
High-qualitystainless steel guides are present with aluminum oxide guide inserts to ensure smooth casting over a long distance to increase the odds for both mono and braided lines.
Penn has used rubber shrink tube handles for excellent grip and comfort. They are durable and dependable too.
Pros |
Cons |
Very high build quality Easily portable with 2 same sized pieces Well designed and lightweight Great strength with the smoothness Long range casting capability Stunning features in such price range |
May appear as less strong than advised A lot of complains about damage while shipping |
Our Opinion
If you want to increase your odds, have a full bucket at the end of the day, and don’t want to break a sweat, this rod from Penn is for you. Not only that, you can have Penn Prevail Surf Spinning Fishing Rod without crossing your budget. Order today before your desired rod size is sold out.
But if you want something pro-level, there are some heavy stuff on our list and other reviews. We would recommend you to check those out.
6. Shakespeare Two-Piece Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod
♦Our Rating: 7.2 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 15 feet |
Rod Material |
: Carbon |
Power |
: Heavy |
Action |
: Fast |
Line Weight |
: 20-40 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 2-12 ounces |
Guides |
: 8+1 |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
It’s capable of fishing heavy one with its durable and tough fishing rod constructed with a combination of graphite and fibreglass.
For added responsiveness and strength, you’ll get clear tip design on Ugly Stik fishing rods.
The body is lightweight and comfortable to hold the rod with a lightweight EVA grip.
It’s a 2-piece stainless steel rod and Shakespeare ensures that it doesn’t break like others.
The graphite Fuji reel seats have corrosion resistant steel hoods.
Pros |
Cons |
Great fishing rod with durability and comfort No risk of insert pop-ups Lightweight and stylish Capable of heavy lifting |
Lure rating is not satisfactory A possibility of lead contamination |
Our Opinion
You’ve seen the same rod from Shakespeare above of our surf fishing rod reviews. But that rod has a length of 12 feet. If you wanted something with more length, this model is for you. It’ll increase your chance of catch fishes even more.
7. Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
♦Our Rating: 7.5 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 12 feet |
Rod Material |
: Graphite |
Power |
: Heavy |
Action |
: Fast |
Line Weight |
: 20-40 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 3-8 ounces<//p> |
Guides |
: 6+Tip |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
The Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods is made of sensitive graphite composite blanks
The aluminum oxide inserts make it more smooth, sensitive, and durable.
Regardless of length and model, you’ll have double footed guide frames.
For higher quality, they’ve given stainless steel reel seat with hood.
To have rear grip and comfort, it has custom non-slip cork wrapped handles, rubber butt cap, and soft touch EVA cushions.
Pros |
Cons |
Graphite strengthens the body Precise and well-aligned guide Very sensitive and smooth Long range casting with 12 feet rod Durable, comfortable, and stylish |
Some complaints about manufacturing faults We don like the build quality much. |
Our Opinion
Another trusted brand in fishing equipment manufacturers is Okuma. They are famous for making quality product. This particular model may not be liked by the pro anglers but the attractive price and awesome specification allowed many under-budget anglers to make their dream come into reality. You can check it out as a beginner but we’d recommend you to look for other models if you’re a pro and have high hopes for your fishing rod.
Pro Tip Did you know that Pro anglers consider fast action rod for lure casting? To know more about rod’s action, please read our buying guide on the 2nd part of this article. |
8.Fiblink Surf Spinning 4-Piece Graphite Fishing Rod
♦Our Rating: 7.3 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 12 feet |
Rod Material |
: Carbon |
Power |
: Heavy |
Action |
: Fast |
Line Weight |
: 20-40 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 4-8 ounces |
Guides |
: 4+1 |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
This durable rod is made of solid carbon fibre which increases performance and sensitivity.
Smooth casting is ensured by high-quality guides made of stainless steel mixed with ceramic.
The non-slip rubber cork handle gives you more comfort and rear grip while casting to a long distance.
Great portability comes with 4 separate pieces. You can bag it easily and take it to the beach and quickly set up for fishing the big ones.
Pros |
Cons |
Rust and corrosion proof reel seat Durable and smoothly performing body, guide, and reel seat Lightweight yet strong and durable The efficiently designed hook holder |
Complaints about a stiff rod and inefficient guides |
Our Opinion
Many surf fisherman have loved this product. Some experts say that if you can combine this rod with Shimano TR 200-G, 50lb braided godline, and an 80lb shock leader, you can catch almost anything. Use it in the right way and you won’t have to worry about getting it broke. Under $100, Fiblink is giving impressive features.
9. Tsunami Airwave Elite Surf Spinning Rod
♦ Our Rating: 7.4 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 10 feet 6 inches |
Rod Material |
Carbon |
Power |
: Medium Heavy |
Action |
: Fast |
Line Weight |
: 15-30 lbs. |
Lure Weight |
: 1-3.5 ounces |
Guides |
: 5+1 |
Type |
: Spinning |
Features
High-density graphite with thick walls makes this rod very strong and extremely lightweight.
It has Fuji “Tangle Free” K-Frame Alconite guides which ensure long casting without having any problems.
The 2-piece rod is great to carry and easy to assemble. Though it’s a 2-piece rod, you’ll feel like one piece once you cast.
Pros |
Cons |
Well-build with high-pressure production techniques Well-balanced weight with powerful blanks Well designed and lightweight Great strength with the smoothness Long range casting capability Stunning features in such price range |
Not much powerful for heavy fishing anglers |
Our Opinion
If you ‘re on the heavy side for weight, this rod is not for you. Otherwise, it’s a great choice. Tsunami is a reputed brand and you can rely on them. Hundreds of anglers trust in this model. Check out the reviews on Amazon and order one today.
10. Penn Spinfisher V & VI Spinning Reel & Rod Combo
♦Our Rating: 6.9 out of 10
Quick Specification
Length |
: 10 feet |
Rod Material |
: Aluminum |
Power |
: Heavy |
Action |
: Moderate Fast |
Mono Capacity (yd./lb.) |
: 390/12 345/15 205/20 |
Braid Capacity (yd./lb.) |
: 485/30 410/40 335/50 |
Max Drag Capacity |
: 30 lbs. |
Number of Bearings |
: 5+1 |
Gear Ratio |
: 5.6 : 1 |
Line Weight |
: 15-30 lbs. |
Guides |
: 5+1 |
Type |
: Spinning |
Warranty |
: 1 year |
Features
No worries using it in saltwater and sand environments as it has a watertight spinning reel.
With aluminum construction, the full body, side plate, and rotor are very durable and strong.
Very powerful drag, unlike others, is provided with a sealed HT-100 Slammer drag system.
There is a mechanism to prevent premature bail trip while casting.
The high-quality reel has 5 shielded ball bearings with an anti-reverse bearing.
Durability and strength come with graphite composite blanks. For better performance and smooth casting, aluminum oxide and stainless steel are used in the guide.
Pros |
Cons |
A very good quality reel with ultra-smoothness Casting with this is sensitive, strong, and smooth> Stylish and durable in saltwater No flipping of bale on aggressive casting Very powerful and smooth drag EVA grips with more comfort |
The rod quality needs improvement Packaging issues are reported |
Our Opinion
Another great reel and rod combo on our list from Penn. You’ve seen the best combo deal at the beginning of our review. This one does not cost less like the PENN Battle II Spinning Rod and Reel Combo but is twice as powerful. Usually, the combo packages aren’t good because the rod quality isn’t that good. But this one’s rod quality is good although it is not satisfactory for serious anglers.
Pro Tip Did you know which rod material you should consider? Beginners and experts have different preferences. To know more about rod’s material, please read our buying guide on the 2nd part of this article. |
2
ndPart:The Guide to Recognize the Best Surf Fishing Rod
You may not like any of our reviewed products. No issues, this guide will help you to buy other models without getting conned or robbed.In the end, you’ll know the terms and specs that’ll serve you in your best way.
Here, you’ll know about different terminologies of surf fishing rod. The Question-Answer section right below will help you make a sense of these terms and choose the right one.
The rod’s length
Surf fishing rods have between 9 to 15 feet in general. Rod length is important because it is required to cast further. Casting further increases the probability to catch more fish. So, your rod’s length is very important. It is considered that the length of 10 to 12 feet is ideal.
But the angler’s height and physical ability is also an important consideration. You should not buy something that you can’t handle.
The rod’s power
Rod’s power is something that indicates the lifting power of your rod. The range of the rod’s power is from light to heavy. The heavier the rod is in terms of power, the better it’ll perform in a heavier line of action. Determine which type of fishes you’re targeting and choose accordingly. The recommended option is to choose a medium-heavy rod.
The rod’s action
Rod action describes or indicates the bend region while on pressure. Fast action rods bend at the tip and slower action rods bend at the centre of the rod. Depending on the target, you should what type of action you’ll need. Professionals recommend using fast action rods for lures. Likewise, you can choose the best one that suits you.
The rod’s material
The rod is made of either graphite or fibreglass. Both have advantages and disadvantages. To get only advantages of those two types, there are some rods which are made of a composition of graphite and fibreglass.
Graphite rods are preferred by advanced anglers and fibreglass are preferred by beginners mostly. Fibreglass is more sturdy and requires low maintenance.
The rod’s grip material, reel seat, and line guides
Rubber handle with cushion makes the handle more comfortable and give added grip. Try to experience the rod in real life before buying if possible.
The good quality reel seat is important. Without a proper fit or bad quality, you’ll experience play or wobble.
The line guides made of stainless steel with aluminum oxide inserts make them more durable, strong and smooth.
Questions and Confusions: Answered Here
Here, we’ve tried to answer some questions from our readers and confusions that we’ve encountered.
If you have any questions that are not answered here, feel free to contact us.
What should I know before buying a fishing rod?
If you answer these 10 questions, you’ll know which type of fishing rod you need.
-
- Who will use the fishing rod? (Age, Height, Physical ability)
-
- What are you targeting? (Types of fish, Weight range)
-
- When are you fishing? (Day or night)
-
- Where are you fishing? (Ocean, river, lake, sea, streams, etc.)
-
- How are you fishing? (Boat or bank)
-
- What length do you feel comfortable casting?
-
- What type of reel are you planning to use?
-
- What is your budget?
-
- What is your desired power and action?
- What type of handle do you prefer? (Cork or Foam)
Spinning or conventional, which reel should I choose?
Both types have advantages and disadvantages. Spinning reels are better for night fishing, line twist, no backlashes, and many better things. But casting heavyweights, spinning reels is not a good option.
On the other hand, a conventional setup helps you casting with more weight, stronger drag capability, and longer casting distance. But it can introduce backlash which you won’t find in spinning setup.
You can calculate based on your situation and decide but if you’re in doubt, go for a spinning reel.
Saltwater vs freshwater, is there any difference?
Yes, of course. While choosing a fishing rod, you must know if the rod of your choice is capable of withstanding saltwater or not. Here, we’re dealing with surf fishing and the best surf fishing rod must have the material for saltwater fishing. By the way, the cost of a saltwater fishing rod is more than freshwater fishing rods.
How can I take care of my surf fishing rod? (for beginners)
No matter how much taunting it is, please don’t lean your rod against any vehicle or use them as walking sticks or put pressure on it while not fishing.
Always wash thoroughly after each use. It’ll increase the life of your fishing rod.
For better care, you can disassemble the rod and clean with different cleaning chemicals along with water.
After you finish washing, remember to dry the part before you put them in your storage.
Final Words
We’ve tried our best to get you the most relevant information you need to make a decision along with the best value surf fishing rod reviews. It’s not enough to get all the information in one article. So, please read our other informative articles and reviews to get the best idea.
From a seller’s perspective, one would say things to make you buy unnecessary and irrelevant equipment for fishing. But we want the best for you. That’s why we’re recommending what many marketers do not want to share.
We would recommend you to buy the parts separately choosing the best one. Because no brand can make everything perfect. Different manufacturers have different specialties.
Buying separately and combining those parts will only give you the best result.
We’re not above mistakes and we can’t completely cover everything. That’s why we need your help. For any of your questions, we are here to try our best to help you choose the best surf fishing rod considering your unique requirements.
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