10 Best Surf Fishing Rods

 As an experienced angler, I know the importance of the right fishing gear. Having the right rod is crucial to your success in surf fishing.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right surf fishing rod can be overwhelming, with so many options on the market. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best surf fishing rods for every budget.

When choosing a surf fishing rod, there are several factors to consider, including length, power, action, and material. The length of the rod is important as it determines the distance you can cast and the amount of leverage you have when fighting a fish.

The rod’s power refers to its ability to handle heavy fish, while the action determines how fast the rod flexes and recovers. Finally, the material of the rod affects its weight, sensitivity, and durability.

Considering these factors, you can choose the best surf fishing rod for your needs and budget. So, let’s dive into the top 10 surf fishing rods.

Our Top 10 Picks

1. Penn Carnage II & Carnage III Surf Conventional Fishing Rod
2. Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Fishing Rod
3. Okuma Rockaway Light Weight Carbon Saltwater Surf Rods
4. Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod
5. Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
6. Goture Travel Fishing Rods with Case
7. Berrypro Surf Spinning Rod IM8 Carbon Surf Fishing Rod
8. Croix Rods Triumph Surf Spinning Rod, TSF
9. Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod – 2 Pieces
10. Okuma Fishing Tackle CSX-S-1102MH Cedros Surf Spinning Rods

Our Top 3 Favorite

See also: The Top 5 Best Value Spinning Rod Reel Combos

1. Penn Carnage II & Carnage III Surf Conventional Fishing Rod

The Penn Carnage II & III Surf Conventional Fishing Rods are some of the best options for surf fishing enthusiasts looking for a powerful and durable rod. These rods are specifically designed for heavier boat, jig, surf, and nearshore models, making them ideal for those targeting larger fish like sharks.

The proprietary SLS3 blank construction provides a thin-diameter blank, making the rod lightweight and strong. The high-end components like Fuji K-Guides, Fuji reel seats, and rubber shrink tube handles make this rod a top-of-the-line option for serious anglers.

One of the benefits of the Penn Carnage II & III Surf Conventional Fishing Rods is that they are easy to customize to suit your specific needs. Some customers prefer to deconstruct and customize the rod with their own reel seat height and guide size and placement.

The rod is easy to strip down and hide where the old guides were, making it a great option for those who like to customize their gear. Additionally, the rod comes out cheaper than similar competitors’ blanks that are only matte clear coated, making it a great value for the price.

Pros:

• Powerful and durable for targeting larger fish
• High-end components like Fuji K-Guides and reel seats
• Easy to customize to suit your specific needs

Cons:

• Some customers have received damaged or incomplete rods
• The weight rating may differ from what’s advertised on the PENN website
• Due to its stiffness, the rod isn’t suitable for smaller fish like surf perch.

2. Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Fishing Rod

Product Specs:

• Brand: Ugly Stik
• Material: Blend of graphite and fiberglass
• Color: Multi
• Fishing Techniques: Spinning, Casting
• Action: Fast
• Handle Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable rod that can handle big water game fish, the Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Fishing Rod is what you’re looking for. As a seasoned angler, I know the right equipment for the job is important.

The Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Fishing Rod is made with a blend of graphite and fiberglass, which makes it strong and sensitive at the same time. This rod can withstand abuse and is perfect for live bait fishing of large catfish, stripers, and big water game fish.

The Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Fishing Rod has a fast action and features Ugly Tuff guides, which are one-piece stainless steel and double-footed for durability and to prevent insert pop-outs.

The durable EVA grips with rubber gimbals provide the necessary fighting length, while the conventional reel seats with stainless steel cushioned hoods keep your reel securely in place.

Overall, this rod has great quality and endurance and is suitable for saltwater and freshwater fishing. However, some customers have expressed disappointment with the initial feel and quality of the rod so that time will tell its durability and performance.

Pros:

• Strong and sensitive construction with a blend of graphite and fiberglass
• Ugly Tuff guides are one-piece stainless steel and double-footed for durability and to prevent insert pop-outs
• Durable EVA grips with rubber gimbals provide the necessary fighting length
• Suitable for live bait fishing of large catfish, stripers, and big water game fish
• Great quality and endurance

Cons:

• Some customers have expressed disappointment with the initial feel and quality of the rod.

3. Okuma Rockaway Light Weight Carbon Saltwater Surf Rods

Product Specs:

• Brand: Okuma
• Material: Composite
• Color: Black
• Number of Pieces: 1
• Fishing Technique: Spinning
• Action: Moderate-Fast
• Handle Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
• Warranty Description: 1 Year

Looking for a lightweight and sensitive surf rod that can handle big fish without breaking the bank? Check out the Okuma Rockaway carbon saltwater surf rod.

This rod is one of the best options for surf fishing on the Central Florida East Coast during the summer or on flat days.

It has a super sensitive tip and plenty of backbone to handle bigger fish easily. The Okuma Rockaway is also balanced well with Daiwa BG 4500 or 4000 reels, making it easy to cast lures as much as a 7 rod.

Aside from its performance, the Okuma Rockaway also boasts a beautiful appearance and finish. It is made of composite material, making it lightweight and thin.

The grip tape is split, and the handle material is ethylene vinyl acetate, providing comfort and ease of use for extended periods. It can hold 2-4 oz weights and is recommended for unisex-adult use.

Pros:

• Lightweight and thin
• Beautiful appearance and finish
• Super sensitive tip with plenty of backbone
• Can handle bigger fish with ease
• Balanced well with Daiwa BG 4500 or 4000 reels
• Suitable for surf fishing Central Florida East Coast
• Can cast lures as much as a 7 rod
• Suitable for holding 2-4 oz weights
• Good for summer surf fishing or flat days
• Recommended for purchase

Cons:

• Some reviews reported loose reel seats, but not experienced by this reviewer.
• Not suitable for heavy surf or throwing huge rods on flat days
• We may need to check baits more often with this setup than heavier rods and reels.

4. Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod

Product Specs:

• Brand: Ugly Stik
• Model: Shakespeare
• Material: Resin
• Handle Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
• Grip Type: Split
• Fishing Technique: Surf
• Line rating: 15-30 lbs
• Lure rating: 1-5 oz
• Power: medium heavy

Get ready to catch the biggest fish of your life with the Ugly Stik Shakespeare spinning rod – it’s tough, durable, and perfect for reeling in the big ones.

This surf fishing rod combines graphite and fiberglass, making it strong enough to handle the toughest fish. The Ugly Tuff guides provide excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring your rod lasts for many fishing trips.

The lightweight and slip-resistant type-F EVA rod handle makes it comfortable to hold and easy to cast. The clear tip design provides strength and sensitivity, making detecting when a fish takes the bait easier.

This medium-heavy power rod has a line rating of 15-30 lbs and a lure rating of 1-5 oz, making it suitable for big-water spin fishing. It’s no wonder this highly rated rod is a favorite among anglers worldwide, providing excellent value for money.

Pros:

• Tough and durable construction featuring graphite and fiberglass
• Lightweight and slip-resistant type-F EVA rod handle
• Suitable for big water spin fishing
• Highly rated by anglers around the world
• Provides excellent value for money

Cons:

• Some customers received damaged or used products
• It may require some practice to learn how to cast properly.
• Some customers noted that the rod is heavy, which may cause fatigue during prolonged use

5. Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods

Product Specs:

• Brand: Okuma
• Material: Graphite composite blanks
• Color: Black/Blue/Silver
• Number of pieces: 5
• Fishing technique: Surfcasting
• Action: Fast
• Tension level: High
• Handle material: Cork
• Warranty: 1-year warranty
• Size: Large

Moving on to another excellent option for surf fishing rods, let me introduce you to the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods. These rods are great for those looking for a sensitive, durable option that won’t break the bank.

Available in multiple lengths and actions, the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods are designed to provide comfort and functionality for all levels of anglers.

One of the standout features of these rods is the sensitive and durable graphite composite blanks. The premium quality components, including the non-slip cork-wrapped handles and stainless hooded reel seat, provide a comfortable and secure grip while out on the water.

Customers have reported good casting ability and sensitivity, making this a great option for catching various fish species. However, some customers have reported issues with shipping and receiving damaged products.

Pros:

• Sensitive and durable graphite composite blanks
• Premium quality components, including non-slip cork-wrapped handles and stainless hooded reel seat
• Good casting ability and sensitivity

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with shipping and receiving damaged products.

6. Goture Travel Fishing Rods,2 Piece/4 Piece Fishing Pole with Case

Product Specs:

• Brand: Goture
• Model: YMX1-TYL-A10645-2
• Material: 30T+36T carbon blank
• Guides: Fuji O-ring with stainless steel and ceramic construction
• Spigot Ferrule Gap for smooth power transition
• 2-piece design for easy travel and storage
• Suitable for sea fishing, river fishing, lake fishing, freshwater fishing, beach and reef fishing
• Warranty: 1 year

If you’re searching for a travel-friendly and affordable option for your fishing needs, the Goture Travel Fishing Rods may be the perfect fit for you. With a two-piece or four-piece design and a case, these rods are made with high-density carbon fiber, making them both sensitive and strong.

The smooth and frictionless casting allows easy handling, making it a great option for beginners and experienced anglers. The lightweight design and spigot ferrule gap provide a smooth power transition, making it easy to transport and store.

In terms of durability, the Fuji O-ring guides with stainless steel and ceramic construction ensure a long-lasting experience. These rods suit sea, river, lake, freshwater, beach, and reef fishing.

Goture offers a one-year warranty and six-month worry-free after-sales service with unlimited time consultation services for customer support.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Suitable for multiple target fishes
• Affordable and travel-friendly
• Smooth and frictionless casting
• Durable and long-lasting with Fuji O-ring guides

Cons:

• Assembly and disassembly may be challenging for some customers
• Some customers found the rod to be functional but not the best quality
• Limited warranty compared to other brands

7. Berrypro Surf Spinning Rod IM8 Carbon Surf Fishing Rod

Looking for a high-quality spinning rod that can handle a variety of fish and provide a comfortable and lightweight experience? The Berrypro Surf Spinning Rod may be the perfect fit for you.

Constructed with IM8 X-Carbon technology blanks, this rod is sensitive and powerful, allowing for a precise data calculation that perfectly combines toughness and flexibility.

The enhanced stainless steel fishing guide with ceramic ring provides smoothness and minimized friction, while the high-strength reel seat, full shrink tube design for fore grip and rear grip, and rubber butt cap offer added comfort.

With a fast action and split grip type, the Berrypro Surf Spinning Rod is perfect for surf fishing and can handle a range of fish species from shore.

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable design
• Great action for surf fishing
• One-year warranty for added peace of mind

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with durability and the rod tip snapping.
• It may require careful maintenance for optimal performance and longevity
• It may not be suitable for all fishing styles or fish species

8. Croix Rods Triumph Surf Spinning Rod, TSF

Moving on from the Berrypro Surf Spinning Rod, another great option for surf fishing is the St. Croix Rods Triumph Surf Spinning Rod, TSF. As an experienced angler, this rod is a top contender for its premium quality material and comfortable cork handle.

Made with SCII carbon with FRS, this rod is strong and durable, ensuring it can handle any fish you may reel in.

The Sea Guide Atlas Performance hard aluminum oxide guides and Sea Guide XDPS reel seats with eco-friendly sandblasted frames make for a high-performance and reliable fishing experience.

One thing to note about this rod is that it has a moderate-fast action, which can benefit those looking for more sensitivity in their fishing.

The tension level is also moderate-fast, which can help with casting distance. However, some customers have reported issues with the rod breaking on small striped bass, so there may be better options for those targeting smaller fish.

Overall, the St. Croix Rods Triumph Surf Spinning Rod, TSF, is a great choice for anglers looking for a high-quality surf rod that can handle larger fish.

Pros:

• Premium quality SCII carbon with FRS for strength and durability
• Comfortable cork handle for a strong grip
• Sea Guide Atlas Performance hard aluminum oxide guides and Sea Guide XDPS reel seats w/ eco-friendly sandblasted frames
• Sea Guide hook keeper
• Two coats of Flex-Coat slow-cure finish
• Backed by St. Croix Superstar Service

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with the rod breaking on small striped bass
• One customer reported receiving the pole as a gift with a missing eye
• Moderate-fast action may not be suitable for all fishing styles or target species

9. Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod – 2 Pieces

Product Specs:

• Brand: Penn
• Color: Black/Gold
• Material: Composite
• Suggested Users: unisex-adult
• Manufacturer: Pure Fishing
• Model Year: 2021
• Size: 10 – Medium – 12-20lb – 2pc
• Skill Level: All
• Fishing Technique: Spinning
• Handle Material: Rubber
• Warranty Description: Manufacturers Warranty

Get ready to up your surf fishing game with the Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod – a top contender for anglers looking for a quality two-piece rod that can handle big catches and provide a reliable and comfortable fishing experience.

Made with a graphite composite blank, this rod is lightweight yet strong enough to handle up to 20 pounds of fish. The Fuji Alconite guides, and reel seat provide a smooth and secure connection, while the rubber shrink tube handles offer a comfortable and non-slip grip.

The Penn Battalion, Surf Spinning Rod, is a great option for those looking for a versatile rod that can handle a variety of fishing techniques and skill levels. Its two-piece design makes it easy to transport and store, and it’s medium size and weight rating make it suitable for both braided and monoline.

However, some users have reported that the rod may come apart after several casts and needs to be tightened regularly, and the butt of the rod may be too big to fit in some sand spikes.

Overall, the Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod is a solid choice for those looking for a quality surf fishing rod at a reasonable price.

Pros:

• Lightweight and strong
• Versatile for different fishing techniques and skill levels
• Comfortable non-slip grip

Cons:

• It may come apart after several casts and needs to be tightened regularly.
• The butt of the rod may be too big to fit in some sand spikes
• Weight rating is higher for braided lines than monoline.

10. Okuma Fishing Tackle (CSX-S-1102MH) Cedros Surf Spinning Rods

Product Specs:

• Brand: Okuma
• Material: Stainless steel
• Color: Blue, black
• Number of pieces: 1
• Fishing technique: Surf
• Action: Fast
• Grip type: Split

You’ll love the Okuma Fishing Tackle CSX-S-1102MH Cedros Surf CSX Graphite Saltwater Spinning Rod, with its fast action and comfortable grip, making your next fishing trip an exciting and successful experience.

This surf fishing rod is built with 30-ton carbon fiber blanks and 316-grade stainless steel guide frames, providing incredible corrosion resistance and strength.

The custom handle set features a non-slip rubber shrink tube handle and tapered rear grip, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip.

The moderate/fast rod tapers allow for a smooth and comfortable casting stroke, while the ALPS blazing Zirconium guide inserts are specifically designed for braided lines.

This high-quality surf fishing rod is perfect for targeting stripers, bluefish, and weakfish and is designed to quickly transition loops from the spinning reel to a straight running line.

The small diameter guides are specifically designed for braid, which may take some time for those unfamiliar with the concept.

Overall, the Okuma Fishing Tackle CSX-S-1102MH Cedros Surf CSX Graphite Saltwater Spinning Rod is a top-of-the-line option for surf fishing enthusiasts and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Pros:

• Made with 30-ton carbon fiber blanks and 316-grade stainless steel guide frames
• Custom handle set with non-slip rubber shrink tube handle and tapered rear grip
• ALPS blazing Zirconium guide inserts for braided line

Cons:

• Some customers complained about poor packaging, which led to scratches on the rod
• Some customers did not fully understand the purpose of the small diameter guides designed specifically for braid
• One customer was not impressed with the rod’s action but acknowledged its quality construction.

Factors to consider when buying a Best Surf Fishing Rods

When buying the best surf fishing rod, several factors must be considered.

The length of the rod is crucial as it affects casting distance and control.

The power and action of the rod determine how well it can handle different fish species and conditions, while the material of the rod influences its sensitivity, durability, and weight.

Other factors to consider include line weight and lure weight capacity, handle and grip type, brand, and price range.

Length of the rod

Looking for a rod that’s just the right length for your surf fishing needs? Let’s talk about the length of your rod.

The ideal length of a surf fishing rod depends on a few factors. One of the biggest considerations is casting distance. The longer the rod, the farther you can cast. However, a longer rod may be more difficult to control, especially in windy conditions.

On the other hand, a shorter rod may not cast as far, but it can be easier to handle and more accurate in casting. Experienced surf fishers often prefer longer rods to cast farther and catch bigger fish.

However, for beginners or those just starting a shorter rod may be easier to handle and provide better control. Finding a balance between length and casting distance that works for you and your fishing style is important.

Ultimately, the ideal length of your surf fishing rod will depend on your preferences and the conditions you’ll be fishing.

Now that we’ve covered the importance of length let’s take a step further and talk about the power and action of the rod.

Power and action of the rod

Choosing the correct power and action for your surf fishing rod is one of your most crucial decisions. Understanding the impact of these factors on your fishing performance can significantly improve your chances of success.

Power refers to the rod’s ability to handle heavy weights and larger fish. Conversely, action refers to the rod’s bend and how much it bends under pressure. Differentiating between power and action in surf fishing rods is vital for choosing the right rod for your needs.

Selecting the right power and action for your fishing needs is essential, as a too light or heavy rod can make fishing uncomfortable and less productive. The key is to match the power and action to your surf fishing techniques.

For example, a light power and fast action rod may be ideal for fishing for smaller fish. Conversely, if you’re targeting larger fish, you’ll need a heavier power and moderate to slow action rod.

By following these tips for matching power and action to your surf fishing techniques, you can make an informed decision and improve your chances of a successful fishing trip.

In the next section, we’ll discuss the material of the rod and its impact on your fishing experience.

Material of the rod

Understanding the impact of the rod material on your fishing experience can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the sport. The material of the rod affects its strength and weaknesses, durability and sensitivity, flexibility and stiffness, weight and balance, construction, and design.

As a surf angler, you want a rod that can withstand harsh saltwater while providing the necessary sensitivity to feel the slightest nibble from a fish.

When looking at rod materials, there are three main options: graphite, fiberglass, and composite. Graphite rods are known for their sensitivity, responsiveness, and lightweight design.

Fiberglass rods, on the other hand, are known for their durability, strength, and flexibility. Composite rods combine the best of both worlds, providing a balance of sensitivity and strength.

The choice of material ultimately depends on your personal preference, budget, and fishing style.

Line weight and lure weight capacity

Moving on from the previous subtopic on the material of the rod, let’s talk about line weight and lure weight capacity. These two crucial factors can make or break your surf fishing experience.

Line weight refers to the strength of the fishing line you plan to use with your rod. The higher the line weight, the stronger the line, and the bigger the fish you can catch.

Lure weight capacity, however, refers to the maximum weight of the lure you can cast with your rod. A higher lure weight capacity means you can cast heavier lures further, giving you more casting distance.

When selecting a surf fishing rod, it’s important to choose one with the appropriate line weight and lure weight capacity for the type of fishing you plan to do. You want to ensure that your rod can handle the weight of your catch and cast your lure far enough to reach where the fish are.

Additionally, you want to consider the rod’s sensitivity and saltwater resistance. A more sensitive rod will allow you to feel even the slightest nibble, while a rod with good saltwater resistance will last longer and perform better in saltwater conditions.

Overall, paying attention to line weight and lure weight capacity will help you select a surf fishing rod that is best suited for your needs.

As we move on to the next subtopic, we’ll discuss handle and grip types. This is another important aspect of a surf fishing rod that can significantly affect your comfort and control while fishing.

Handle and grip type.

The handle and grip type of your surf fishing rod can greatly impact your comfort and control, allowing you to feel the ocean breeze as you expertly cast your line out into the rolling waves.

When selecting a handle and grip for your surf fishing rod, consider an ergonomic grip design that contours comfortably to your hand.

This will help prevent hand fatigue and discomfort during long fishing sessions. Additionally, non-slip handle options can improve your grip and control, especially when fishing in wet or slippery conditions.

The materials used in your handle can also affect your overall experience. Cork and EVA are the most common materials used for surf fishing rod handles.

Cork handles are lightweight and provide a classic look, while EVA handles are durable and provide a firm grip. Consider a customizable handle length, which can greatly affect your comfort and control while casting.

Remember that the handle can impact your casting distance, so choosing a handle and grip that feels comfortable and natural to you is important.

In the next section, let’s examine how brand and price range influence your decision when choosing a surf fishing rod.

Brand and price range

There are many popular brands to consider regarding surf fishing rods. Some of the top names in the industry include St. Croix, Penn, Daiwa, and Shimano. These brands offer a range of options, from affordable entry-level rods to high-end models with advanced features and technology.

Of course, with brand recognition comes a price tag, so it’s important to consider your budget when deciding. If you’re on a tight budget, there are still plenty of options available for you.

Many brands offer affordable surf fishing rods with good performance and durability. Some examples include the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods, the Penn Carnage II, and the Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod.

These rods may have the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they can still do the job for beginners or those on a budget.

On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend more money on a higher-end model, you can find surf fishing rods with advanced features like carbon fiber construction, specialized grips, and improved sensitivity and power.

Some of the best high-end options include the G. Loomis NRX, the Shimano Teramar XX NE Spinning rod, and the St. Croix Avid Surf.

Ultimately, finding the best value surf fishing rod for your needs will depend on your personal preferences and budget, so take the time to research and compare different options before deciding.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks: the 10 best surf fishing rods for every budget. From the ultra-affordable Penn Carnage II & Carnage III to the top-of-the-line Okuma Fishing Tackle Surf Rod, there’s a surf fishing rod for every angler and at every price point.

But remember, the best surf fishing rod for you will depend on your preferences, fishing style, and budget. So, consider the factors we discussed and test a few rods before deciding.

Like finding the right partner, finding the right surf fishing rod is all about compatibility. So don’t settle for anything less than the perfect match! As the saying goes, “A great surf fishing rod is like a loyal companion, always there by your side, helping you reel in the big ones easily.”