Our Top Pick:
Bass Casting Fishing Rod by St. Croix
★★★★★
Best Value:
KastKing Bass Fishing Rod
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
St Croix Bass Spinning Fishing Rod
★★★★★
In case you enjoy bass fishing, you need to find a fishing rod that is designed for this purpose. Thankfully, there are many bass fishing rods that you can find; however, your aim should be to get the best bass fishing rod, one that is suited to your fishing technique.
The good news is that we have done the legwork and shortlisted the 10 best bass fishing rods for you. So, you do not have to spend time researching. Just check our honest and unbiased reviews and you will be able to decide which one is the best for you.
When it comes to bass fishing, you can use spinning or casting fishing rods. There are pros and cons to each, and you should weigh those before you decide to go with a spinning or casting bass fishing rod.
Also, make time to read our buying guide that has listed a few must-have features. The guide will help you select a rod that has the best features and one that is apt for your requirements.
| Table: Best Bass Fishing Rods | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 KastKing Bass Fishing Rod | Check Price » |
| #2 Bass Casting Fishing Rod by St. Croix | Check Price » |
| #3 St Croix Bass Spinning Fishing Rod | Check Price » |
| #4 Enigma Graphite Bass Fishing Rod | Check Price » |
| #5 Bass Casting Fishing Rod by Abu Garcia | Check Price » |
| #6 Two-Tip Bass Fishing Rod by Entsport | Check Price » |
| #7 Plusinno Two-Piece Spinning Rod | Check Price » |
| #8 Sougayilang Freshwater Bass Fishing Rod | Check Price » |
| #9 Bass Casting Rod by Daiwa Tatula | Check Price » |
| #10 Collapsible Cast Spinning Rod by Akataka M’Wave | Check Price » |
Best Bass Fishing Rods Reviews
1. KastKing Bass Fishing Rod
KastKing has done it again, and this is undoubtedly the best bass fishing rod you will find on the market. It combines performance and stunning looks to ensure you improve your catch ratio.
Product Specs
- Made from carbon blanks
- Utilizes nano-resin technology
- Guides and reel seats by Fuji
- Grips by WINN
- Available in different lengths for a variety of casting techniques
Why We Recommend This Product
If you love bass fishing, this should be your go-to fishing rod. It is lightweight, accurate, and result-oriented. This series by KastKing offers fishing rods for all types of casting preferences. There are casting and spinning bass fishing rods to choose from. The build quality of the rod is superior and you will find that not only is it attractive to look at but also offers outstanding performance. It has a comfortable grip and you will not experience discomfort even after hours. It is designed to improve your bass fishing performance.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Performance-oriented
- Highly sensitive
- Well-built and durable
- Several casting models
- Fast action
- Ergonomic grip
Cons
- Some users complained of the reel seat not aligning with the guides
Tip: This rod is stiff even though it is lightweight. This enables anglers to enjoy long casting distances with ease.
Info alert: The rod is extremely sensitive and this enables you to significantly improve your catch performance.
2. Bass Casting Fishing Rod by St. Croix
This fishing rod has the distinction of being the best bass casting rod that you will find on the market. It is extremely durable and highly sensitive to ensure you enjoy a great and successful fishing trip.
Product Specs
- Made from graphite fiber
- 3D guides
- Rings made from aluminum oxide
- Cork handle
- 5-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This fishing rod is made for the serious bass angler. It is designed for performance. While you may initially find the rod stiff and worry that it may break when the bass wrestles. Rest assured, it will not happen as this fishing rod is designed to be durable and long-lasting. We found this casting rod very sensitive and this enabled us to improve our catch ratio. The different parts of the rod are made from premium materials, ensuring you have no issues with them.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Highly sensitive
- Built for performance
- 5-year warranty
- Great casting action
Cons
- Some users complained that the stiff rod snapped easily under stress
Tip: If you are transitioning from a medium-fast rod to this rod, you will need a little practice as this bass fishing rod is genuinely fast.
Info alert: This amazing electric fishing reel comes with a 2-year warranty which is quite attractive.
3. St Croix Bass Spinning Fishing Rod
This medium-action rod has the distinction of being the best spinning rod for bass fishing. It is made from the best quality materials and that ensures that the rod is durable and long-lasting.
Product Specs
- 6 ft 8 inches in length
- Graphite construction
- Medium power
- Fast action
- Line weight of 6 to 12lb
- 5-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
We were impressed with the build quality of this fishing rod. It is made from superior quality graphite and this makes it strong as well as lightweight. It is easy to carry to your favorite fishing spot. It is extremely sensitive and this allows you to act quickly to improve your catch ratio. It makes bass fishing fun and exciting. You will find that this spinning rod is smooth and has a fast action. Hence, it is perfect for experienced fishers.
Pros
- Resilient and long-lasting
- Extremely sensitive
- High-performance bass fishing rod
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Ergonomic grip
- Smooth action
- Spinning fishing rod
Cons
- Some complaints of the rod snapping under pressure
Tip: To get the maximum out of this spinning rod for bass, be sure to match the reel size to the rod size.
Info alert: You will find that this spinning rod is quite effective with artificial worms and will not have an adverse effect on your catch ratio.
4. Enigma Graphite Bass Fishing Rod
This bass fishing rod is available in 10 different models that vary in lengths. You can find them from 6ft 9 inches to 7ft 6 inches, and each one is designed for high performance. These fishing rods are non-collapsible.
Product Specs
- Made from Japanese graphite
- Guides are coated with titanium and have zirconium rings
- Double-stitched handle
- Has a tailor-made storage case
- Graphite blanks
Why We Recommend This Product
This is a one-piece fishing rod and is perfectly balanced. It is designed by a pro angler so everything has been carefully designed to provide a superior bass fishing experience. It is lightweight and comfortable to use, even for extended hours. We loved the sensitivity of the rod and it ensured we were always filled with excitement. The blanks and rings are long-lasting as well. The rod does assist in long casts with relative ease.
Pros
- Strong and resilient
- Lightweight
- Highly sensitive
- Enables long casts with ease
- Perfectly weighted and balanced
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Many not be as resilient as claimed by the manufacturer
Tip: The reel can hold 800 yards of 80 braids and hence, it is possible to enjoy deep drop fishing at depths greater than 1000 feet.
Info alert: You will enjoy a one-year warranty if you register your rod with Enigma on receiving it.
5. Bass Casting Fishing Rod by Abu Garcia
This bass fishing rod is not just great to look at but also relatively easy to use. It is a sensitive rod and will ensure you feel even the slightest pull and tug of the line.
Product Specs
- Graphite construction
- EVA handle
- Inserts made from titanium oxide
- Guides are stainless steel
Why We Recommend This Product
Depending on the model you select, you will have a medium-heavy to a heavy fishing rod. It is extremely sensitive and can be used with light or heavy baits as long as you are using the right reel. It is very comfortable to grip and has a lot of tip that helps you cast long distances with ease. It can take a lot of abuse without showing any signs of wear and tear or performance issues. It is affordably priced and offers great value for money.
Pros
- Strong
- Designed for performance
- Highly sensitive
- Lightweight
- Well-balanced
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Users have complained of the tip breaking off
Tip: You can use heavy bait and reel with this rod if you pair it with a baitcasting reel.
Info alert: This bass fishing rod boasts a lot of tip and hence, it can be used with lightweight and smaller lures with ease.
6. Two-Tip Bass Fishing Rod by Entsport
This fishing rod makes it to the list of the best bass fishing rod because it is different from other rods you find on the market. It comes with two tips and you have a choice of using either, depending on the fishing action you want to use.
Product Specs
- Two-piece bass fishing rod
- Two tips
- Made from carbon fiber
- 6+1 guides
- EVA handle
- Reel seat with aluminum hood
Why We Recommend This Product
We were impressed with the two tips that enabled us to switch when we wanted. Also, the two-piece fishing rod allows you to mix and match if you opt for more than one rod. The construction is solid and this helps to increase the strength and casting distance of the rod. The performance of the rod is smooth and seamless. The guides are uniformly spaced and that minimizes line friction. We also find that the rod is quite sensitive and that added a lot of excitement to our bass fishing trip.
Pros
- Strong and resilient
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Comfortable grip
- Has two tips – medium and medium-heavy
- Corrosion-resistant guides
- Smooth guides
Cons
- Some users have complained of the rod breaking after a few casts
Tip: The reel seat comes with a locking mechanism and that keeps the seat in position, just where you want it.
Info alert: This fishing rod has an EVA handle that is not just comfortable but also gives you complete control over the casting and the fishing rod.
7. Plusinno Two-Piece Spinning Rod
This medium power bass fishing rod comes with a fast action. It is lightweight and is made from carbon composite to ensure strength and durability. It is well-balanced and facilitates smooth and long-distance casting.
Product Specs
- Made from carbon composite
- EVA handle
- Two-piece reel seat
- Double locking mechanism for the reel seat
- Medium power
- Fast action
Why We Recommend This Product
We loved the fact that this rod is lightweight and comes with a comfortable grip. We did not experience any fatigue during the fishing trip. It looks great and is well-built. It can be used in freshwater as well as saltwater. The spinning reel comes with a hood that protects it from water exposure. Also, you do not have to worry about the reel loosening or the line getting tangled. We were impressed with the way it allowed us to cast the line far.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Perfectly balanced
- Durable and strong
- Ensure far distance casting
- Spinning rod
- Line does not twist
- Easy to assemble and use
- Smooth performance
- Can be used in saltwater and freshwater
Cons
- Some issues of users getting broken rods
Tip: This bass fishing spinning rod can be used by anglers adopting any fishing technique with relative ease.
Info alert: If you are a season bass angler and utilize complex fishing techniques, this fishing rod is a wise choice for you. It makes complex fishing techniques easy and seamless.
8. Sougayilang Freshwater Bass Fishing Rod
Backed by a five-year warranty, along with its beautiful finish, Sougayilang does further than any other rod and can take your fishing to a whole new level. Being relatively new on the market it’s made from 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, is corrosion resistant, and can weather any environment making it extremely durable. It features 2 and 1 ball bearings, a one-way roller bearing, and exceptional smoothness along with being accurate and flexible. The spool is adjustable and can be tightened or loosened easily along with the hand orientation. Coming to its resistance, the surface is hard anodized, cold-forged, and tempered for rigid profile and strength which lasts longer.
Product Specs
- A comfortable handle which is easy to grip when wet
- Pan carbon fiber rod blanks with shock resistance, heat insulation, moisture resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance.
- Lightweight rod and increased sensitivity
- High grade chromed stainless steel ring guide
- 4-piece portable rod for easy travel and storage
Why We Recommend This Product
We can highly recommend this rod if you’re a pro angler or just getting started as it’s great with both saltwater and freshwater fishing. It comes with good cushioning, shock, heat, chemical, and water resistance, and provides a firm grip. The rod is super smooth, sturdy, and durable and can be interchanged – being lightweight also allows it extra sensitivity especially for freshwater fishing. You can carry it around with you and if anything should happen, it comes with a one-year warranty and excellent customer service.
Pros
- Durable carbon fiber construction
- Versatile and lightweight
- Ideal for saltwater and freshwater fishing
- Durable
- Can be folded to fit anywhere
- Comes with its own reel, lures, and carry bag
- Beautiful finishing
Cons
- Fighting drag not available
- A bit harder to collapse than other rods
Tip: The Sougayilang Freshwater fishing rod can be broken up into four pieces which makes it easy to carry on holiday, in your kayak, or even bag pack.
Info alert: The Sougayilang freshwater fishing rod can be used in any environment and being extremely durable, it is one of the best bass fishing rods for the money you pay.
9. Bass Casting Rod by Daiwa Tatula
The bass casting rod by Daiwa is for the experienced dedicated angler who spends hours out on the water. It is specially crafted with a high-volume fiber, high modulus carbon graphite blank, and extra fiber to provide maximum strength and increased stability while still keeping it lightweight and agile. The finishing is done with Fuji-painted ACS reel steel, and it comes with Fuji aluminum oxide guides, firm-grip EVA handle, and a handy hook keeper. You can pick from a medium-light power or a heavy-duty medium power in a single-piece construction.
Product Specs
- HVF carbon black graphite construct
- High-quality aluminum oxide ring guides
- Non-slip EVA grip handle
- Durable and strong
- Can easily cast from a distance
- Fuji ACS reel seat
Why We Recommend This Product
We love the fact that this rod is a huge powerhouse for hauling in big fish. It is specially made by experienced Daiwa engineers – it can be used to haul in all types of gamefish in any weather conditions. Daiwa fishing rod has a strong durable aluminum body, which is corrosion and scratch resistance as well as comes with a gorgeous finishing. It is flexible, can be cast for longer distances and the EVA grip handle allows you more confidence and control while reeling in the fish. The spinning reel is another great choice and with such an affordable cost, this fishing rod is highly preferred among anglers.
Pros
- High-quality EVA handle
- Sensitive
- Lightweight and durable
- Range of options for sizes
- Superior non-slip handle
- High-grade guides
- 7’00’’ length allows for increased casting distance
- Hook keeper allows pre-rigging
Cons
- A bit heavy for a beginner
Tip: This high-performance bass fishing rod is ideal for catching trophy bass even from a long distance.
Info alert: This high-performance bass fishing rod is ideal for catching trophy bass even from a long distance.
10. Collapsible Cast Spinning Rod by Akataka M’Wave
This collapsible two-piece spinning rod is ideal for deep-sea fishing and is compatible with different reels. It’s lightweight, highly sensitive, and durable and performs as one piece. Fitted with a carbon fiber construct it can fight to lift heavy fish with ease. With an EVA form and rubber cork, it provides comfort, absorbs sweat, and minimizes friction. It also has corrosion-resistant rings, stainless steel guides, and ceramic inserts to keep the reel in place at all times. The two pieces collapse into each other, making it easy and convenient to carry.
Product Specs
- The carbon fiber construct for durability
- Lightweight and comfortable EVA grips
- Fit for different fishing conditions
- Stainless steel guides
- Ceramic inserts
- Increased sensitivity
- High strength reel seat
Why We Recommend This Product
The Akataka M’Wave spinning rod is quite affordable, lightweight and allows you to catch big trophy fish. It has a range of sizes to pick from depending on your location. Constructed from structurally enhanced carbon fiber it is tough yet sensitive and can easily maintain its balance. It has the strength and flexibility to catch heavy fish with ease while its rubber cork and EVA foam handles provide comfort by absorbing sweat allowing more control. Lastly, it comes with corrosion-resistant rings, stainless steel guides, and ceramic inserts to keep the reel in place at all times enhancing sensitivity.
Pros
- Durable and tough
- Lightweight
- High level of sensitivity
- Constructed with carbon fiber
- Comfortable for long fishing trips
- Used for catching deep water big fish
- Collapsible and easily portable
Cons
- The line might tangle in the hook holder
Tip: Keep in mind that this rod is good with reel 3000/4000 3/8-1/2oz lures and can fit different fishing conditions.
Info alert: This spinning rod can be broken down into two pieces, making it easier to carry around during travel or a road trip.
Buying Guide for Bass Fishing Rod in 2020
When you are looking to buy a bass fishing rod, there are several factors that you need to consider before you can make a choice. Choosing the proper fishing rod is one of the most important factors in having success out on the water without spooking the fish. Use the wrong rod and you may not be able to get a bite.
Spinning or casting fishing rods:
Deciding between spinning or casting fishing reels is an important factor. They are the two most common rods used for successful bass fishing. On spinning rods, the reel hangs from the bottom of the rod with the spool aligned with the rod, bait casting rods have the reek sitting on top of the rod – each rod needs to be paired with a matching reel to be most effective. From a functional point of view, spinning rods are highly popular for sport fishing like bass, trout, pike, and more and provide excellent fishing with live bait since they have a slower return action. They are shorter so can be used in close range fishing from the shore or pier. Spinning rods are lighter so they are better for all those trophy fishing opportunities.
Length of the rod:
The next step is deciding how long you want your rod to be, this comes down to factors like where you will be fishing and what you will be fishing for. Rods can range from 4 feet in length to a gigantic 14 feet, but more bass fishing rods tend to run between 6 and 8 feet altogether. The shorter the rod, the shorter the casting distance, and so on. Shorter rods are great when you can fish in close combat and will allow the rod to bend and stretch easily when fighting a fish, most experienced anglers prefer them. Short rods are also space-saving and can be carried easily from place to place, you can use them for walking baits, deep diving crankbaits, and other power fishing reaction baits.
One or two-pieces:
Some rods, like the ones from Akataka M’Wave, come as two pieces that join together as a single piece. Owning a double piece or a four-piece bass fishing rod is much better and can be carried anywhere and easily assembled. It can fit in a compact space, and most of these rods are strong and sturdy. One-piece rods are not great when it comes to storing or traveling. Two pieces, even four pieces or more rods are most preferred by beginners and experienced anglers everywhere.
Graphite vs carbon fiber construct:
Look for a fishing rod made with graphite or carbon fiber; these prove to be much more durable when fishing. They are lighter, stronger, and stiffer making them more sensitive and better at detecting even the tiniest of fish bites. The lighter the rod, the more flexibility you can get and some of them are virtually unbreakable. Rods come in different materials and it depends on the angler and the conditions.
Speed of the rods:
The speed of bass fishing rods generally varies between medium or fast. Medium rods allow you to cast for heavier fish from a long distance without bending or breaking the rod. Fast rods are most accurate, and precise when casting, they allow you to hold bigger fish with a solid grip. A rod with more power will bend easier and this is great for fishing. Light rods are geared towards smaller species like trout or panfish as they can easily detect a bite. Moderate rods are good for baits like crankbaits, jerk baits, or spinnerbaits wherein you don’t want to break the line. Heavier power rods are best suited to jigs, topwater fishing, frogs, and anything else that requires less bend.
Price range:
For most anglers, the price range comes down to whether they are experienced angler or beginner anglers. Some one-piece rods are made for fiberglass and are most affordable compared to the two or three-piece ones made of graphite. Keep in mind that it depends on what you want to invest in and where you want to fish. Some anglers are experienced and enjoy going out daily while others go a couple of times a week or a month. Understand your budget first, you can easily get a few hundred dollars on a nice base rod, but that’s unnecessary especially if you don’t fish that often. There are plenty of quality rods on the market and some of them come with their own extended warranty, fishing gear, bag, and more. Do your research and pick a fishing rod that best suits your lifestyle.
Also read: 5 things you need in your bass fishing tackle box
Final Verdict
These are the 10 best bass fishing rods that you will find on the market. While there are many other brands and models, these are the ones that we recommend after extensive testing. Out of these 10, we believe that the rod by KastKing is the best bass fishing rod and offers value for money.
The KastKing Bass Fishing Rod is designed for bass fishing and offers amazing results. It is available in a range of casting models and hence, you can select one that suits your fishing technique and the water body you intend to fish at. This fishing rod boasts a fast action and therefore, we recommend it for experienced anglers. It is highly sensitive and built for performance. It has a smooth casting action and the rod is very sensitive to feel even a minor tug or pull.
KastKing has used top-of-the-line materials, including Fuji guides and seats and WINN grips. The rod has a comfortable grip that allows you to cast the line far out into the water and you do not have to contend with fatigue even after long hours of bass fishing.
Related post: The Best Rooster Tail for Bass
So, if you are looking for the best bass fishing rod, this one should you rod of choice and once you begin using it, you will not have any regrets.
Updated: October 27, 2022
