Best Saltwater Fishing Rods of 2022 – Reviewed & Tested

Saltwater fishing gear will cost you a little more than freshwater fishing gear. Hence, it will be important for you to decide what exactly you want before you actually decide to buy a specific model of best saltwater fishing rods. To decide what type of saltwater fishing rods you need, think about what style of fishing you are going to use. Moreover, think about the type of fish you are likely to fish for and how much it weighs on average.

Such information will help you better decide on what type of saltwater fishing rod you need. A saltwater fishing rod on its own is usually useless hence you will have to purchase several other pieces of equipment such as a spinning reel, hook, fishing line as well as bait and some storage bag or bucket too. Modern models of fishing rods are made from either carbon or fiberglass as these rods are far more durable and reliable.

Before you go out shopping for the best saltwater fishing rods think about what species of fish you normally see in the waters that you are planning on fishing in as this will determine what length, thickness and material the rod will have to be so as to not snap or break when you will be dragging the fish out of the water especially when your catch will be salmon or tuna.

Top 10 Best Saltwater Fishing Rods Review in 2022

1. UglyStik GX2 Spinning Fishing Reel and Rod Combo

The name might sound were weird however these saltwater fishing rods are often used by professionals around the world because they have proven to be durable, strong and very comfortable to use in different weather conditions.

Moreover, these best saltwater fishing rods are made using only high-quality materials that are first tested for strength and durability. Plus, they are made with graphite composites and EVA foam handle padding for your ultimate comfort and experience.

Furthermore, because manufacturers finish these rods with a layer of anti-rust and corrosion paint, you can expect them to serve you for a long period of time.

Also Read: Best Jigging Rods – Complete Buyer’s Guide

2. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Another great model of a saltwater fishing rod with a composite blank and aluminum oxide guide for the inserts. Moreover, this model comes with a double-footed frame that has been proven to be durable and comfortable to use.

Plus, this model is available at a good price and will become a great option for individuals looking to buy the best saltwater fishing rods at an affordable price. However, you will have to keep in mind that this rod is made out of bamboo material and is not coated with an anti-rust finish.

3. KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods

KastKing Perigee III Saltwater Fishing Rod is made with graphite stools and premium-grade titanium oxide guides plus the ring tips are made from durable American stainless steel that will not rust or corrode.

Moreover, the handle is made from premium class plastic material has ribbed sections to prevent the surf fishing rod from slipping from your hands during rainy or humid weather.

Furthermore, the packaging box contains a black nylon carrying case that has comfortable carrying handles. Overall, the manufacturer has developed this saltwater fishing rod for large fish species such as stripers, perch and even salmon.

4. Sougayilang Graphite Saltwater Fishing Rods

Sougayilang carbon fiber fishing rods are made in several lengths and this particular model is nearly 8 feet long with durable and super strong tubular blank plus it is made with stainless steel hooded composite reel.

The handle is covered with anti-slip EVA foam for added comfort during fishing plus this added feature can become handy when you will be pulling heavy fish that weigh more than 20 pounds.

Also Read: Best Spinning Rods – Complete Top Buyer’s Guide

5. Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod

Another great model of saltwater fishing rod from a local manufacturer called Shakespeare, the rod is made with durable material as well as stainless steel guides for the spool.

Moreover, this model is 10 foot long and is capable of supporting large fish such as salmon and perch. Plus, it comes with a nylon carrying case that will protect your surf fishing rod from scratches and scuffs.

Furthermore, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty on all of their models. Users reported that the customer service is helpful and quick.

6. Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rods

This model of Okuma Tundra Saltwater Fishing Rod can be used for all sorts of saltwater fishing including surf fishing as well as trolling fishing from the boat.

Moreover, it has been reported to be very durable and easy to clean plus the manufacturer has coated it with an anti-rust finish that will prolong the rods life especially in salty conditions. Furthermore, the handle is made to be very light thus you would not have to worry about your hand getting tired during fishing.

7. Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo

This combo set of two Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo is made from glass fiber with ceramic inserts and graphite stool. Moreover, it comes with 1BB ball bearing system that has been proven to be really smooth and comfortable.

Plus, these Daiwa best saltwater fishing rods are quite long at 10 foot and 60 consequently it can hold big fish that weight up to 25 pounds. Furthermore, the stool has been coated with anti-corrosion finish that will prevent the rod from rusting and corroding thus this rod is great for fishing in the salty sea water.

Also Read: Best Travel Fishing Rods – Enjoy Both Performance and Portability

8. Penn Squall Level Wind Reel & Rod Fishing Combo

This saltwater fishing rod is made out of premium material and has been reported to have an extra sensitive tip with a durable and strong backbone.

It is almost 10 foot long and can withhold up to 15 kg of weight plus the handle is made with foam grips for better comfort and experience.

9. Fiblink Saltwater Trolling Fishing Rod

Fiblink Saltwater Offshore Heavy Trolling Fishing Rod is made with fiber glass rod and graphite stools with stainless steel hoods. Moreover, this is covered with a cork-like wrap that will prevent this surf fishing reel from slipping during fishing.

Plus, the rod is quite long at 10 foot and can handle up to 40 pounds hence it will be best for fishing for large species of fish. The customer support was reported to be friendly and helpful plus the manufacturer of these surf fishing rods offers a 3 year warranty period.

Furthermore, the rod comes with a nice carrying case made from a durable nylon material that will protect the rod from scratches and scuffs plus it can easily be washed in the washing machine whenever needed.

10. Tailored Tackle Universal Rod and Reel Combo

I’ve come across many fishermen who want nothing more than a good bass haul to take home at the end of the day. However, what if you wanted some trout too? What about some walleye? Do you need to buy a different sort of fishing rod for catching each of these fish?

Not if you get this rod and reel combo! The Tailored Tackle combo is advertised as multispecies, so not only can you fish for all three species I mentioned above, but you can try out inshore saltwater fishing as well!

The rod of this combo looks very simple yet capable. It’s got a soft grip cork handle that makes me nostalgic about my grandparents’ fishing rods. Of course, this one is much more comfortable.

Moreover, This rod is quite sensitive, so you never have to worry about a fish escaping from your grasp. The fast action tip also makes sure the rod helps to make a quick catch. Lastly, this combo comes with an instruction manual, so you don’t need to find out how to use it through trial and error.

Also Read: How to Tie Two Fishing Lines Together – Different Types for Fishing Line

How to Choose a Saltwater Fishing Rod?

Firstly, decide on what type of fishing you prefer different types such as pier fishing, surf fishing or fishing from a boat. As mentioned before, surf fishing involves fishing from the pier or the shore by casting the fishing lines far ahead. Pier fishing is virtually identical.

However, there are other types of fishing such as inshore fishing that involves casting fishing lines in waters that are about 80-100 m deep and few km from the shoreline. Another type of saltwater fishing is called trolling and it involves casting the fishing line into the water on a moving boat.

What Is Needed for Saltwater Fishing?

Professional fishermen that normally fish in saltwater recommend using rods that are at least 10 feet in length plus if you can afford one then buy the best saltwater fishing rods with an extendable butt section. Furthermore, you might want to purchase a separate bag that you could use to store all the extra things you will need such as gloves, wet wipes, bait, sunscreen and drinking water.

Plus, you will need a smaller bag or compartment where you could store your baits, fishing lines and hooks. Also, do not forget about rinsing the seawater and taking precautions to protect the fishing rods from scratches and scuffs that can be caused by sand, rocks and other elements.

How to Tie a Good Knot

The first thing you will need to do when beginning to fish is to tie and untangle a good knot. Moreover, there are several variants of the fishing hook but each is easy to learn.

The most popular knot for many fishermen is the Uni Knot as it is very easy to tie and holds really firm for long periods of time. In addition to firm knots, you will have to decide on whether you are going to use the standard pink balloon or live bait such as shrimp instead.

Ways to See a Cracked Guide?

Cracked guides can be very hard to see and could potentially cause a lot of damage to the fishing line. Of course, you could also lose the fish. Sadly, as practice shows, cracked guides only show themselves when the load is applied.

Hence, the simplest way to detect a cracked guide is to pull women’s stockings through the guides and then have someone push down at the tip of the fishing rod. If you do find out that your best saltwater fishing rods has cracked guides don’t worry as they can be easily fixed at your local working shop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Is the Best Rod for Saltwater Fishing?

A: For inshore saltwater fishing, a relatively low power rod would be the best option in most situations. Heavier power rods lift complex line weights, and for lighter lines, lighter power rods are ideally adapted. The movement (fast, medium, slow) tells you how much of the rod bends when applying pressure to the tip. 

Besides, longer rods increase the casting distance, while better leverage is provided by shorter rods. Therefore, for lures or live baits you need to get a rod of around 7-foot tall, with fast to extra-fast action. On the other hand, for smaller lures or natural baits you could get one with moderate action. 12 to 20 pound lines work best in cases like these.

Q: What Color Line Is Best for Saltwater Fishing?

A: It is suggested that a multi-colored line that blends into the foreground should be more difficult for fish to see and monitor. In many cases, red and green blends in well with the marine vegetation. However, blue is the one that blends best. Yellow tends to be too conspicuous.

Q: What’s the Main Difference Between Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing?

A: Saltwater fishing usually means fishing from a boat or pier in the gulf. For this, you can employ quite a few types of fishing strategy. You could try out fly fishing or fighting fish from a boat. Similarly, if you’re fishing in a body of water with a salinity level of less than 0.05 percent, that falls under the criteria of freshwater fishing. This type of fishing is typically more laid back and calming for fishermen.

Also Read: Casting Rod VS Spinning Rod – The Complete Guide for Beginners

How to ‘un-stick’ Two Piece Rod Ferrules

Sometimes trying to separate the joins on two (or more) piece rods can be an exercise in frustration, the joint just does not seem to want to come apart. I do not know how or why this works, but put the rod behind your back and pull the joint apart – works most times.