Choosing the best fishing rod for your individual circumstances is arguably the most important decision any angler can make.
But with countless options available across different fishing disciplines, selecting the perfect rod can feel overwhelming.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the right fishing rod for your specific needs as well as offering some tried and tested options.
All disciplines and budgets are covered so there is a rod everyone.
Let’s get straight into it.
Quick Summary
If you are in a rush then our fishing rod recommendation tool can help. Simply answer some questions on your requirments and will suggest a suitable option that has been highly rated in our reviews:
Alternatively, here’s a summary of some top options:
| Type | Best Overall | Best Budget Option |
|---|---|---|
| Carp Rod | Daiwa Infinity X45 | Daiwa Black Widow |
| Spod Rod | Infinity X45 Spod | Black Widow XT |
| Float Rod | Drennan Acolyte | Daiwa Matchman |
| Feeder Rod | Daiwa Airity | Sonik SKS |
| Barbel Rod | Infinity EVO | Korum Barbel Rod |
| Pike Rod | Powermesh Deadbait | Wychwood Agitator |
| Spinning Rod | Westin W3 Powerlure | Ninja S Spin Rod |
| Beachcaster Rod | Century Fireblade | Shakespeare Salt XT |
| Travel Rod | Nash Scope Black Ops | Fox EOS Pro Telescopic |
What to Look for in a Quality Fishing Rod
If you are just starting out in the wonderful world of fishing you will be forgiven for thinking that a fishing rod its just a long piece of carbon or fibreglass that is used to catch fish.
Well to extent you would be right in this thinking but there is so much more to understand to ensure your fishing is both efficient and enjoyable.
Let’s start by taking you through the different attributes on a fishing rod and how this affects what rod you should choose.
Build Quality and Materials
The build quality and materials used in a fishing rod’s construction form the foundation of its performance. Here’s what you need to consider:
Blank Material
The rod blank is the core component that determines how a rod performs. Modern fishing rods typically use different grades of carbon fibre (also called graphite), fibreglass or composite materials:
- High Modulus Carbon Fibre: Found in premium rods, this material offers exceptional strength while remaining incredibly lightweight. Rods using high modulus carbon provide excellent sensitivity and power transmission.
- Standard Carbon Fibre: Used in mid-range rods, offering a good balance between performance and durability. While not as lightweight as high modulus carbon, these blanks still perform well for most fishing situations.
- Composite Materials: Often combining carbon fibre with materials like fiberglass, composite blanks offer increased durability at the expense of weight. These are commonly found in budget rods and those designed for rougher fishing conditions like boat fishing at sea.
| Material Type | Weight | Sensitivity | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Modulus | Light | Excellent | Good | High |
| Standard Carbon | Medium | Very Good | Very Good | Medium |
| Composite | Heavy | Good | Excellent | Low |
Manufacturing Process
Quality fishing rods utilise advanced manufacturing processes that enhance performance:
- Cross-Woven Carbon: Many high-end rods use carbon fibre woven at specific angles (like 45 degrees) to increase strength and prevent twist during casting. This technology really can make a difference to the overall performance of the rod both in casting and playing fish, however, rods with this technology tend to be more expensive.
- Reinforced Joints: Quality rods feature reinforced spigot joints that maintain the blank’s action through the connection points. Advanced technologies like Daiwa’s V-Joint or Shimano’s X-Ship help create seamless power transfer through these crucial areas.
Components
The quality of components can make or break a fishing rod’s performance:
- Guide Rings: Look for high-grade guides with smooth inserts (like SiC or Alconite) that minimise friction during casting and retrieving. Quality guides should be securely wrapped and perfectly aligned.
- Reel Seat: A solid, well-engineered reel seat is crucial. It should lock your reel firmly in place without any movement, even under heavy pressure. DPS or machined aluminium seats are typically found on better rods.
- Handle Material: Whether cork or EVA foam, the handle material should be high density and securely fitted. Premium rods often feature high-grade cork or custom-shaped EVA grips designed for comfort.
Finishing
The final touches reflect a manufacturer’s attention to detail:
- Whippings: Look for neat, even whippings with no gaps or loose ends. Quality rods often feature double-wrapped guides for extra security.
- Blank Finish: A smooth, even finish not only looks good but helps protect the blank from damage. Matt finishes are popular as they’re less likely to spook fish in clear conditions.
Top Tip: – On top of all of the considerations mentioned it is equally important to ensure you pair your fishing with a suitable reel to ensure your whole setup is well-balanced.
Action and Power
Understanding a fishing rod’s action and power is important as these characteristics determine how the rod performs in different fishing situations.
Rod Action
The action of a fishing rod refers to where the rod bends under pressure and how quickly it returns to its original position. There are three main types:
- Fast Action (Also called tip action): Bends primarily in the top third of the rod. These rods are highly sensitive and provide excellent hook-setting power, making them ideal for float fishing, lure fishing and situations requiring quick reactions. Perfect for general coarse fishing, and spinning.
- Medium Action (Also called tip to middle action): Bends in the top half of the rod. Offers a good balance between sensitivity and forgiveness. These versatile rods work well across multiple fishing styles, from feeder fishing to general coarse fishing.
- Slow Action (Also called through Action): Bends throughout the entire length of the rod. While this provides excellent shock absorption for hard-fighting fish, it results in less sensitivity. These rods are commonly used in situations where you need to cushion lunges from powerful fish, such as large carp fishing or beach casting where you need to absorb the power of waves and strong fish.
Power Ratings
A rod’s power indicates the amount of force needed to bend the rod. This determines what size fish and what weight of tackle the rod can handle.
Some types of fishing rod (e.g. carp rods) refers to this as test curve. This is basically the amount of weight required to bend the rod at a 90 degree angle as this diagram shows:
Here are the more common types of test curve in fishing, and the style of fishing they are typically associated with:Â Â
- 1.75lb – 2.25lb: Light test curves for surface fishing, and margin fishing for smaller fish. Often used in Barbel and Tench fishing.Â
- 2.75lb – 3.25lb: All-round test curves for larger specees such as carp and pike fishing
- 3.5lb – 3.75lb: Distance casting and hard fighting specimen sized fish
- 4lb+: Specialist applications like spodding or extreme distance work
Top Tip: – If you would like to know more about test curves and what styles of fishing they are best suited to you can checkout our handy test curve calculator tool here.
Not all rods determine their power by the test curve metric however. Other rods (like float, feeder, spinning and beach casters) use casting weight as a way of measuring the rods suitability.
For example a typical beachcaster has a casting weight of 6 to 8 ounces whereas a match fishing, waggler rod are much lighter at 5 to 8 grams.
Fishing Rod Lengths
The length of your fishing rod is a crucial factor that affects both casting ability and fish-playing control. Different fishing styles and environments demand specific rod lengths for optimal performance.
| Discipline | Rod Length | Best For | Typical Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carp Fishing | 8ft-10ft | Stalking | Close-range fishing, tight swims, margin fishing |
| 12ft | All-round | Standard carp fishing situations | |
| 13ft | Distance | Large waters, distance casting | |
| Match/Float | 10-11ft | Pellet Waggler | Small to medium waters and commercial fisheries |
| 12ft-13ft | General | Standard float fishing on most waters | |
| 14ft-15ft | Specialist | Long-range waggler, stick float fishing on rivers | |
| Feeder | 9ft-11ft | Short-range / method feeder | Small waters, or on commercial fisheries where the method feeder works well |
| 12ft | All-round | Standard feeder fishing | |
| 13ft+ | Distance | Large waters, distance work | |
| Predator/Lure | 7ft-10ft | Boat | Vertical jigging, boat fishing |
| 8ft-11ft | Spinning | Standard lure fishing, spinning | |
| 12ft | Deadbait | Pike fishing with deadbait or even live baits | |
| Sea Fishing | 8ft-10ft | Boat | Boat fishing, uptiding |
| 9ft-11ft | Spinning | Spinning or lure fishing from boats, beach or rocks | |
| 12ft-16ft | Beachcasting | Extreme distances when fishing from the shore |
Additional Considerations When Choosing a Fishing Rod
On top of the factors listed above, there are some other aspects to consider that will impact your final choice of fishing rod. Some other things to ponder include the following:
Target Species
The fish you’re planning to catch should heavily influence your rod choice. While you might be tempted to go for an all-rounder, specific species require particular characteristics in a rod.
For example, targeting specimen carp requires a rod with enough backbone to control powerful runs, while pursuing smaller species like roach or bream needs a more delicate touch to avoid hook pulls.
Always consider the typical size and fighting characteristics of your target species when selecting a rod.
Fishing Environment/Venue
Your fishing environment plays a crucial role in rod selection. A rod that performs perfectly on a small, sheltered commercial fishery might be completely unsuitable for beach fishing or casting on large reservoirs.
Consider the size of the venue, casting distances required, and any physical obstacles like trees, underwater snags etc. For example, stalking on a small, intimate lake might require a shorter rod for manoeuvrability, while open beach fishing often demands long, powerful rods for distance casting.
Experience Level
Your skill and experience as an angler should influence your rod choice. Beginners often benefit from more forgiving, all-round rods that allow them to develop their technique without being overwhelmed.
More experienced anglers might prefer specialised rods that excel in specific situations but require greater skill to use effectively. As your experience grows, you’ll likely find yourself gravitating toward more specialised equipment that suits your evolved fishing style.
Budget Range
While it’s tempting to focus purely on price, it’s better to think about value for money and long-term investment. Quality fishing rods can last many years with proper care, making them a worthwhile investment if you fish regularly.
Consider how often you’ll use the rod and what features are essential for your fishing style. Sometimes spending a bit more initially can save money in the long run, but there are also excellent affordable options that offer good performance without breaking the bank.
Transport & Storage
The practicalities of transporting and storing your rod are often overlooked but can significantly impact your fishing experience. Consider whether a multi-piece rod would be more practical for your situation, particularly if you use public transport or have limited vehicle space.
Think about storage space at home and whether you need protective cases or rod sleeves. The packed length of the rod and its ease of assembly/disassembly can make a big difference to the convenience of your fishing sessions.
The Best Fishing Rods
So, now we have explored the considerations needed to choose a fishing rod that aligns with your needs, it’s now time to advise on some decent options.
All of our recommended fishing rods have been tried and tested, researched and reviewed and the rods with the highest scores detailed here.
You can check out how the rods have been tested and scored on our dedicated page here.
The best in class is featured here alongside a list of top rated rods, price and their review score. We have also included a link to a dedicated article on the particular method so you can obtain some more useful advice if needed.
If you know what type of rod you are looking for you can skip to it below.
Best Overall Carp Rod
Daiwa Infinity X45
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.3
Casting Performance - 9.7
Playing Fish - 9.5
Value For Money - 9.2
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So, don’t get me wrong, picking the best carp fishing rod out there at the moment, wasn’t easy.
There are a few rods I have reviewed that are worthy of the accolade of being the best.
But for me, the Infinity X45 pips its competition by having the right mix of the sheer quality of materials used, overall balance, subtlety, and power. And all of this is available at a price point that makes you believe it was worth every penny.
Anglers have often asked me, why not the Basia X45, as this is officially Daiwas flagship model?
For me, there are too many similarities between the Infinity and the Basia and with the Infinity X45 coming in at £200 cheaper, you just get better value for money with it.
The rod feels ultra-smooth on the cast with the X45 technology in the carbon, the V-joint technology in the joints and the Seaguide TDG rod rings, all seamlessly coming together. It feels so frictionless that you just think you can cast miles with it.
Playing fish on this rod is just a dream and you can feel every bump and grind with the fight, even over 100 yards out. Despite its subtle feel, at no point did I ever feel like I would potentially be out of control with the fish.
It almost defies the rules of physics, how something so light and subtle could equally contain as much power as it does.
My goto version is the 12 foot 3.25lb test curve as it has a great balance of power and subtlety and I can still hit 130 yards with a 5-ounce lead on a good day! If you need further range then the 3.75lb test curve in 13-foot will push your casting potential further.
In summary, the Infinity X45 is just an amazing carp fishing rod, and with an overall score of 9.4, sits as the best carp rod on the market at this present time.
Pros
- Casts amazing distances, particularly the 3.75lb version
- Extremely lightweight yet extremely powerful
- A real feel of quality in your hands
- Playing fish feels great
Cons
- Only available in two test curves
A summary of the top carp rods we have reviewed:
For more information, and to see other top specialised types, check out our full guide on the best carp fishing rods.
Top Waggler / Match Rod
Drennan Acolyte Float Rod
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Casting Performance - 9.0
Playing Fish - 9.0
Value For Money - 8.0
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The Drennan Acolyte Plus float rod was introduced as an upgrade from the acclaimed Acolyte Ultra series and has addressed the need for a stronger, more powerful rod suitable for larger fish.
While the rod remains impressively light—just slightly heavier than the Ultra—it delivers a stronger performance, particularly useful when fishing for sizable carp or tackling powerful river species.Â
It casts really well thanks to its ‘tippy’ nature and SiC guides that help reduce friction.
The versatility of the Acolyte Plus makes it an excellent choice for various fishing techniques, including pellet waggler setups.
The 13ft model, in particular, proves to be highly effective when fishing for carp and F1s, combining the advantages of length and strength.
The Acolyte is a good-looking rod as well with pleasing aesthetics that are nicely finished off with a flared cork handle and a metal butt cap.
Whether used for targeting large carp in still waters or pursuing hard-fighting river fish, the Acolyte Plus demonstrates remarkable adaptability and reliability.
In my opinion, the enhanced model caters to anglers seeking both finesse and power and is superb across a diverse range of conditions and targeting a wide range of species.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to handle
- Quick line pick up and striking speed
- Ultra slim blank providing both finesse and power
- SiC guides that are known to be light and helps reduce friction
- Has a handy hook retaining ring
Cons
- On the higher end in terms of price
Here’s a table detailing the best float fishing rods we have reviewed:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Airity X Match Rod | 9 | £389.99 |
| Daiwa Matchman Pellet Waggler Rod | 7.6 | £39.99 |
| Drennan Acolyte Float Rod | 8.6 | £219.00 |
| MAP Parabolix Waggler Rod | 8.4 | £179.99 |
| Korum Glide Power Float Rod | 7.9 | £79.99 |
| Daiwa Connoiseur Float Rod | 8.5 | £194.99 |
| Preston Supera X Float Rod | 8.3 | £274.99 |
To see more detail on all the types of float fishing rods that have scored highly, check out our choosing a float fishing rod guide.
Best All Round Feeder Rod
Daiwa Airity Feeder Rod
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.5
Casting Performance - 9.5
Playing Fish - 9.5
Value For Money - 8.0
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From the moment you pick up the Airity X feeder rod, it’s clear that this is a rod of exceptional quality. The blank is constructed using Daiwa’s cutting-edge X45X Full Shield Bias Carbon Technology and HVF Nanoplus, resulting in a rod that’s incredibly strong yet remarkably lightweight.
The cork and Duplon Armlock handle not only looks sleek but also provides a comfortable and secure grip. The handle design includes a flat area that rests against your forearm, helping to secure the rod and prevent slipping when playing larger fish.
The high-quality Tournament reel seat offers a smooth and rock-solid connection with your reel and is strategically positioned close to the handle for improved control.
One of the features I really like on the Airity is the SeaGuide Stainless Steel Zirconia guides. These lightweight guides contribute to the rod’s overall balance and play a crucial role in its casting performance.
They are angled so they are facing slightly away from your reel, pointing more towards the tip. This, again, is a very thoughtful aspect of the design that helps reduce friction slightly and also helps to reduce tangles.
The V-Joint Alpha technology always impresses me. It basically ensures seamless transitions between sections, creating a smooth and consistent curve throughout the rod with no weak spots.
Available in lengths of 10ft, 11ft, and 12ft as well as a beefed-up power version, there’s an Airity X feeder rod to suit every angler’s needs.
The 10 and 11-foot models are great to use with the method feeder whereas the 12-foot (my favourite) is a fantastic all-round feeder fishing rod that can pretty much handle anything that’s thrown at it.
The versatility of the rod, its exceptional build quality, and its outstanding performance in both casting and fish-playing make it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers looking for top-of-the-range gear.
Pros
- X45X Full Shield Bias Carbon Technology enhances strength and reduces blank twist for improved casting accuracy
- HVF Nanoplus construction creates an incredibly strong yet lightweight blank, enhancing casting energy and overall performance
- V-Joint Alpha technology provides a seamless, smooth curve for improved casting and fish-playing action
- SeaGuide Stainless Steel Zirconia guides reduce weight and improve rod recovery, adding to casting distance
- Ergonomic handle design with Armlock feature ensures secure grip and control during casting and fish-playing
Cons
- It's one of the most expensive feeder rods on the market
Here’s a summary table on the best feeder fishing rods we have reviewed:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Tournament SLR Feeder Rod | 9.1 | £399.99 |
| Daiwa Airity Feeder Rod | 9.1 | £429.99 |
| Guru Aventus Feeder Rod | 8.8 | £299.99 |
| Drennan Red Range Method Feeder Rod | 7.9 | £84.95 |
| Sonik SKS Commercial Feeder Rod | 7.4 | £29.99 |
| MAP Extremis Feeder Rod | 8.1 | £109.99 |
| Korum All Rounder | 7.4 | £49.99 |
| Drennan Specialist Twin Tip Duo | 7.9 | £109.95 |
| Daiwa Ninja X Feeder Rod | 8.1 | £59.99 |
| Daiwa N'Zon Feeder Rod | 8 | £49.99 |
| Shimano Aero X7 Feeder Rod | 8.4 | £309.99 |
You may want to check out our full guide on recommended feeder fishing rods for more detail
Best Overall Ledger Style Barbel Rod
Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.0
Casting Performance - 8.5
Playing Fish - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
The Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod stands out as our highest scoring ledger style barbel rod, combining thoughtful design with top-notch performance.
This 12-foot rod boasts a low-glare, 1K woven finish that minimises spooking wary barbel, while its Fuji SiC guides and hooded Fuji reel seat ensure smooth casting and reliable performance.
Available in test curves ranging from 1.75lb to 2.75lb, the Infinity EVO caters to various fishing conditions, from gentle streams to fast-flowing rivers. I personally prefer the 1.75lb test curve model as it feels beautiful when playing fish.
The inclusion of a hook keeper is a practical touch, which I always like and certainly helps getting caught up as you navigate bankside vegetation.
What truly sets the Daiwa Infinity EVO apart is its perfect balance of length and power. At 12 feet, (in all test curves) it provides excellent smooth casting and good distances if required without becoming unwieldy.Â
This makes it an ideal all rounder capable of fishing for barbel in a number of different water-types, with a variety of methods and conditions.
The elephant in the room is the price tag and you always know when the words ‘Daiwa’ and ‘Infinity’ are in the same sentence you are talking premium quality yet premium price-points.
However, for serious barbel anglers who demand the best from their fishing gear, the Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod delivers exceptional performance that justifies its cost.
Its blend of sensitivity, power, and thoughtful design features makes it a top choice for those willing to invest in a rod that is quite simply one of the best out there.
Pros
- High-quality construction with low-glare 1K woven finish
- Fuji SiC guides are lightweight and smooth helping to reduce friction on the cast
- Available in multiple test curves (1.75lb-2.75lb) for versatility
- Hook keeper to prevent snags while moving along the bank
- Ergonomic handle design with Armlock feature ensures a secure and comfortable grip
Cons
- Its expensive
- I would have like to have seen varying lengths in the range
Available From These Reputable Retailers
Check out this table that shows the different types of rods suitable for barbel and their overall ratings:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Korum Barbel Rod | 8 | £46.99 |
| Daiwa Powermesh Barbel Rod | 8.1 | £123.99 |
| Daiwa Infinity EVO Barbel Rod | 8.5 | £319.99 |
| Korum All Rounder | 7.4 | £49.99 |
| Drennan Specialist Twin Tip Duo | 7.9 | £109.95 |
| Sonik Angl-R Barbel Rod | 7.5 | £58.49 |
| Drennan Specialist Barbel Rod | 8.1 | £119.99 |
We also have a full guide on barbel fishing rods that goes into more detail on the different types and what to look for.
Best Deadbait Rod For Pike
Daiwa Powermesh Deadbait Rod
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.5
Casting Performance - 8.5
Playing Fish - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
Compare Prices
The Daiwa Powermesh Deadbait rod masterfully combines traditional aesthetics with modern performance, featuring a premium high-grade carbon blank with 1k woven carbon construction.
The carefully engineered blank, with its stiffer butt section, excels at casting heavy deadbait rigs with impressive accuracy and distance.
The classic full cork handle and reliable Fuji DPS reel seat complement a thoughtfully designed rod that delivers the perfect balance of power and finesse, making it particularly well-suited for pike fishing.
What sets this rod apart is its excellent value proposition, offering quality components without the premium price tag.
The combination of stainless steel frame guides and lightweight LS ceramic rings provides smooth line flow, while the woven carbon butt frame gives you the backbone needed to bully pike away from danger when required.
Available in a 12ft version with 2.75lb and 3lb test curves, this well-balanced rod delivers the reliability and performance that Daiwa is renowned for, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced pike anglers looking for a quality deadbait rod.
Pros
- Excellent value for money at around £100, offering Daiwa’s renowned build quality
- Powerful butt section optimised for casting heavy deadbait rigs accurately
- Strong but lightweight construction thanks to high-grade carbon blank with 1K woven carbon
- Well-balanced blank with enough backbone to control large pike near snags
Cons
- Limited to deadbait fishing specifically, reducing its versatility for other predator techniques
There are different tactics that predator anglers deploy to catch pike. Here is a table of other types of predator fishing rod and their overall ratings:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Powermesh Deadbait Rod | 8.4 | £121.50 |
| Wychwood Agitator BR-S Deadbait Rod | 8 | £62.99 |
| Westin W3 Powerlure | 8.3 | £112.99 |
| Savage Gear Alpha SG8 Monster Bait Rod | 8.4 | £349.99 |
| Ninja S Spin Rod | 7.9 | £49.99 |
| Fox Predator Elite XS Boat Rod | 8.3 | £144.99 |
| Savage Gear SG2 Drop Shot Rod | 7.9 | £60.08 |
| Fox Rage Prism Travel Rod | 7.8 | £76.99 |
| Wychwood PDR Fly Rod | 7.9 | £134.99 |
| Daiwa Wilderness Spin Rod | 8.1 | £89.99 |
For more information on pike fishing rods and the different types, you may want to check out our complete guide here.
Good Mid Range Spinning Rod
Westin W3 Powerlure
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Casting Performance - 8.5
Playing Fish - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
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The W3 Powerlure (2nd generation) is a mid-priced spinning rod that comes with a really nice, well-balanced build that utilises good quality materials throughout.
To start off with the carbon blank made by Torayca. This is a brand name of carbon fibre made by Toray industries who are a Japanese company renowned for producing high quality carbon fibre material.
When used on a fishing rod you have a lightweight yet very powerful bit of kit that performs exceptionally well.
On the bank, the lightweight nature of the rod alongside its medium-fast action ensures you can cast and control lures very efficiently and the line pick-up is super fast and well-suited for predator fishing.
When reviewing the W3 Powerlure I was using a variety of lures ranging from 20 to 50g and I have to say I was suitably impressed with how smooth and consistent the rod performed. The specs say it can cast lures up to 60g which I definitely agree with, if anything it could probably go slightly heavier.
Playing fish is equally as pleasurable with pike up to around the 10lb mark and smaller Jacks being caught in testing resulting in some great sport.
All in all the Westin W3 Powerlure is a superb spinning rod and one that is reasonably priced judging by what you get for your money. As such, I thoroughly recommend it for both beginners and experienced anglers who want a well-balanced spinning rod that performs well and is very enjoyable to use.
Pros
- High-performance carbon blank is lightweight yet strong
- Great blank recovery allows for consistent casting with heavy lures if needed
- Good quality, lightweight LTS guides
- Good solid reel seat
Cons
- Some anglers have said the aesthetics on the rod are pretty ordinary
Best Overall Beachcaster
Century Fireblade Delta Black
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 9.0
Casting Performance - 9.0
Playing Fish - 8.5
Value For Money - 8.0
Compare Prices
Who’s It Ideal For:
Regular, experienced sea anglers who can benefit from the advanced features
Key Features:
- Multi-phase high tensile composite butt with 3K carbon twill
- Hybrid rapid recovery tip for quick blank reset
- Delta forward sloping anti-tangle guides
- Premium Japanese shrink rubber (JSR) handle with moveable Fuji reel seat
The Century Fireblade Delta is a seriously impressive bit of kit that brings Century’s premium rod-building expertise to a slightly more accessible price point.
It’s built like a tank with that multi-phase carbon construction and hybrid tip design, making it perfect for anglers who want to hit those distant marks without sacrificing sensitivity.
We’ve been really impressed with how versatile it is. Whether you’re fishing clean ground or battling rough conditions, it handles everything you throw at it with ease.
While it’s not cheap at around, you’re getting a proper British-made beachcaster that’ll last you years if you’re serious about your shore fishing.
Pros
- Outstanding build quality with premium materials and finishing
- Exceptional casting performance across multiple techniques
- Versatile performance in varied fishing conditions
- UK-made with Century's proven manufacturing expertise
Cons
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for casual anglers
Beachcasting is one of many methods that sea anglers use to catch fish. The following table details some top rods we have reviewed for different sea fishing tactics:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Tidal XR Beach Caster Rod | 8.4 | £126.99 | Sold Here |
| Shakespeare Salt Xt Beachcaster | 8 | £59.99 | Sold Here |
| Century Fireblade Delta | 8.6 | £274.99 | Sold Here |
| Century Eliminator Boat Rod | 8.6 | £344.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa Super Kenzaki Boat Rod | 8.4 | £159.99 | Sold Here |
| Penn Wrath II Boat Rod | 8 | £44.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa Saltist Spin Rod | 8.3 | £149.99 | Sold Here |
| Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod | 7.9 | £41.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa Seahunter Z Uptide Rod | 8.1 | £89.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa Gekkabijn LRF Rod | 8.1 | £84.99 | Sold Here |
| Penn Regiment IV Travel Rod | 7.8 | £123.29 | Sold Here |
| Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Kayak Rod | 7.6 | £34.99 | Sold Here |
| Anyfish Anywhere Estuary MK2 | 8.5 | £199.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa D Wave Surf | 8 | £59.99 | Sold Here |
| Daiwa Wilderness Spin Rod | 8.1 | £89.99 | Sold Here |
To find out more on the different types of sea rods suitable for the differing methods then please check out our full guide on the best sea fishing rods.
A Top Affordable Retractable Rod
ESP Onyx Quickdraw
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Casting Performance - 7.0
Playing Fish - 7.0
Value For Money - 8.0
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ESP don’t make many rods, but the ones they do produce are always of a quality build and well thought out with the angler in mind.
The 9 and 10-foot versions of the ESP Onyx Quickdraw come in test curves of 3 and 3.5 lbs. It’s a powerful and versatile rod that I found lends itself nicely to use on a variety of different waters.
Its slimline, high modulus blank is responsive and provides consistent feedback and action; while unusual for a telescopic rod, this is certainly a welcome feature!
Its 40mm stainless steel guides are both lightweight and durable enough to ensure casting is efficient without compromising balance.
I really enjoyed playing fish with this rod; thanks to its EVA handle, and responsive blank that provides the angler with plenty of feedback with enough power to land fish safely.
Fishermen on the hunt for a portable yet versatile telescopic carp rod will definitely want to check out the ESP Onyx Quickdraw.
Pros
- Very compact design packs down to 44 inches in the 9-foot version and 50 inches in the 10-foot version
- Lightweight minima guides keep the weight of the rod down
- The full-length Duplon handle feels really comfortable in the hand
- The anti-frap tip and the moulded line clip are nice touches
Cons
- Limited handle options, but fine if you like the full duplon option
Here are some other top telescopic fishing rods we have reviewed:
# | Rod | Rating |
1 | 9.2
| |
2 | 8.0
| |
3 | 7.7
| |
4 | 7.6
| |
5 | 7.3
| |
6 | 7.3
|
To find out more about retractable fishing rods that are suitable for travelling, check out this guide.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best fishing rod is ultimately a personal choice that depends on numerous factors unique to your fishing style, target species, and environment.
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the essential aspects to consider when purchasing a fishing rod, from understanding technical specifications like action and power to practical considerations such as transportation and budget.
Remember that there’s no such thing as a truly “perfect” all-round fishing rod. Each discipline has its specific requirements, and many experienced anglers build their collection gradually, starting with versatile all-rounders and adding specialised rods as they refine their preferences.
Quality should always be a priority when choosing fishing rods. While budget constraints are a reality for most anglers, investing in the best rod you can afford often pays dividends in durability, performance, and overall fishing enjoyment.
As with most aspects of fishing, the best way to determine what works for you is through experience. The perfect rod is the one that feels right in your hands and suits your fishing style, and when you find it, you’ll know it immediately.
Thanks for reading.
Tight Lines!