Bass is a very aggressive fish species and they defiantly don’t walk away from a fight, which is why bass fishing is such an exciting sport. Anglers love that you can’t just reel in bass, the thrill of the sport is the struggle it takes to catch and it’s no wonder that this remains one of the most popular types of fishing and that new anglers get hooked all the time.
If you’re thinking about bass fishing that you need the best rod for you, the best bass rod for you can help you catch bigger and better fish and help you to master bass fishing.
You need a good rod that’s sensitive enough to let you feel when you’ve got a bite, even if it’s only a gentle nibble. When looking for a good bass rod you need something comfortable to use, with enough flexibility to haul in a large catch without snapping and of course, plenty strong enough to go head to head with the aggressive bass.
You need a rod that suits you most importantly, and some beginners find this a hard thing to find so we’ve taken away some of the work for you. We’ve put together some of the best bass rod options currently available, and whether you’re a novice or a seasoned bass angler you’re certain to find something that you like.
We will also show you some of the most important features to look out for on a bass rod, and answer some of your most important questions.
Top 5 Best Bass fishing rods
OUR TOP PICK
Shakespeare UglyStik GX2 Spinning Bass Fishing Rod
EDITORS CHOICE
KastKing Perigee II Bass Fishing Rod
BEST VALUE
Entsport Camo Legend Baitcasting Bass Fishing Rod
OUR TOP PICK
Shakespeare UglyStik GX2 Spinning Bass Fishing Rod
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Ugly Stik is always a popular brand for anglers, they create affordable and well-constructed rods that are known to last for years and deliver a top-quality performance again and again. This rod holds up their reputation and is a smooth and easy rod to use and is especially good for beginners looking for a rod to help them grow.
The rod is strong and durable and is made from a combination of graphite and fiberglass. This construction combo makes the rod strong, but also lightweight and sensitive.
Sensitivity is an important feature on bass rods and many angler’s main criticism of Ugly Stik is that they can sacrifice sensitivity for durability; this rod proves them all wrong as it’s easily as sensitive as other similar models from brands like Fenwick.
This rod will let you know when you’ve got a bite, and the comfortable EVA handle gives you a great grip to help control the rod and bring your catch home.
This rod has been designed to handle 8-20 lines and it’s a pretty versatile piece of equipment that can be used in saltwater, freshwater, the lake, river, or sea and still give a top-quality performance. The rod casts well and isn’t stiff enough that it might snap, or flexible to the point where it lacks the strength to bring in the catch. It has good action, is lightweight enough to be able to be used comfortably.
The rod has a good balance and is more than capable enough of holding its own against the larger bass.
The rod comes in a two-piece or four-piece option so if you’re looking for a portable rod than these are a great way to solve the problem of finding a great bass rod and finding a rod that’s portable enough to be taken on some great fishing expeditions.
When in pieces the rod can easily fit inside a fishing backpack, and it’s lightweight enough not to bother you while you’re on the move. This is a very sleek rod that looks great and performs even better. It’s comfortable to use, it may struggle on the top end of the scale of the larger fish but it’s an excellent fit for the medium-sized fish and can still hold its own against anything bigger.
If you’re a beginner looking to get into the sport than this is an excellent rod to start with.
Pros
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Comfortable to use and casts well and easily
- Tough and durable construction as you’d expect from an UglyStik
- Excellent sensitivity
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Not the best for the largest species of bass
- Offer better balance for lighter feel
- Line Rating : 8-20
- Rod Blank Material : Ugly Tech Construction
- 6' Heavy Power Spinning Rod
- Rod Handle Type : E
EDITORS CHOICE
KastKing Perigee II Bass Fishing Rod
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It’s hard to argue with KastKing rods in terms of quality and it’s no wonder that they’re a leading brand when it comes to high quality and high-performance tackle.
This option comes in either one-piece or two-piece and is a great example of KastKing’s quality construction. Made from 24-ton carbon this is a very lightweight model, the construction and material make it sensitive and accurate, and because the pole is light in weight it makes it easier to fish comfortably for longer periods.
The backbone on this rod is incredible and it’s easy to cast both light and heavy lures with it. Carbon is also very durable, and with the proper maintenance, this rod is certain to last a good few years at least. As we’ve already mentioned you need a sensitive rod for successful bass fishing and the sensitivity on this rod is enough to let you feel even very light bites.
KastKing has spent time and effort making this rod, and they’ve chosen to only use top quality materials and components, which add to the lifespan of this model. The handles are made from EVA which is durable and makes it easy to find a strong, comfortable grip that’s easy to maintain. The rod includes Fuji O-Ring line guides which are not only strong and durable but is regarded by some anglers to be the best line guides you can get.
Some bass anglers are naturally jumpy about the idea of using a two-piece rod over a one-piece regardless of the increase in portability saying that the performance isn’t the same with two-piece construction, but KastKing has made this no longer a problem with this model. The two-piece rod is easily as sensitive as their one-piece alternative but is easier to control and far easier to transport and take with you on the road.
This is a dynamic rod and Kastking has given you a lot of options to choose from including length, power, and action to try and give you a more personalized fishing experience. You can easily use this rod to go after species other than bass like trout or pike, and it’s this versatility that makes the rod so much fun to use and great value.
Any angler would be happy to give this lightweight and sensitive rod a go, if you’re an adventurer then you’ll love the portability options of this model which make it easy to put in a backbone and take with you. This is a rod that looks great and performs better so if you’re in the market for a rod that’ll help you catch some great prizes this is the one for you.
Pros
- Plenty of options for length, action, and power
- Versatile rods that can be used for species other than trout
- Well made and durable
- Come in a thicker rod tube so no chance of damage in transit
- Excellent backbone and casting
Cons
- Not as crisp as more expensive models, but not far behind either!
- AMAZING QUALITY CARBON FIBER BLANK - All Perigee II two-piece fishing rods are constructed with Toray 24-ton carbon matrix KastFlex blank technology for power, strength, and accuracy. Available in 29 sizes from an ultra light spinning fishing rod to a heavy 7’ spinning rod and a baitcaster rod ranging from medium to heavy power. Use them for bass fishing rods, trout fishing, walleye fishing, or as a salmon rod, catfish rod, steelhead rod, or saltwater fishing rod.
- PREMIUM COMPONENTS - KastKing uses the best quality components in a Perigee II fishing rod. World renowned Fuji O-Ring line guides, tuned ergonomic graphite high-strength reel seats, high-density EVA grips, Saf-T Keeper hooker holder, the finest sensitive “bare and beautiful” finish carbon fiber for light weight rod blanks, and outstanding cosmetics. Rod action ranges from baitcasting rods that are fast action rods to spinning rods that cover moderate, moderate fast, and fast action rods.
- SMOOTH POWER - KastKing PTS (Power Transition System) hybrid spigot joints in Perigee II 2-pcs rods transition power smoothly throughout your fishing rod blank. Specialized high technology computer control wrapping at four angles (0⁰, 45⁰, 90⁰, 135⁰) keeps the power flowing. Whether you choose an amazing and affordable Perigee II casting fishing rod as a bass rod or a KastKing spinning rod as a walleye rod, or for any species, you will agree it feels exactly like a one-piece fishing rod!
- STEP UP - Throw away your old technology ugly fishing pole and step into the future of fishing with a dynamic KastKing Perigee II high performance casting rod or spinning fishing poles for bass fishing, trout fishing, cat fishing, walleye fishing or any technique for freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing for red fish, striped bass, snook and more! Total Peace of Mind Warranty. KastKing is an ICAST award winning manufacturer.
- BEST VALUE –KastKing Perigee II graphite fishing poles are one of the best value rods in the fishing tackle market! Don’t be confused by the low price. Even better, these are simply one of the lightest rods you'll find under $100. You'll fish all day without fatigue and have power to spare because of our high carbon blanks that offer a powerful, yet light weight rod.
BEST VALUE
Entsport Camo Legend Baitcasting Bass Fishing Rod
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This model from Entsport is a great casting rod with the kind of construction you’d expect would end up costing your far more than the impressive price point on this model. The 24 Ton carbon fiber construction on this bass rod makes it very lightweight which removes some of the pressure on the wrists so you can hold it and fish for longer periods.
The carbon construction also makes it very strong and highly sensitive-just what you want from a bass rod. The EVA handles are durable and high-density, it’s easy to find a good grip with this handle and it’s unlikely to break anytime soon.
The handle gives you a lot of control and helps to enhance the sensitivity of this rod. The rod breaks down into two pieces for easy portability and this is a great option if you’re the kind of angler who likes to put a rod in their pack and hike to some interesting spots that might otherwise have been inaccessible.
This rod is corrosion resistant with an enhanced reel seat, and 6+1 corrosion resistant guides. The guides have been placed in the best position to reduce or even eliminate friction and they massively contribute to the excellent casting ability of this rod. The reel seat is robust and is secure enough even if in the middle of a fight.
It’s not recommended that you regularly use this model is saltwater, but it should be able to withstand the ferocity of the ocean if you need it to. This is an excellent casting rod that retains enough sensitivity despite its strength to let you know when you’ve got a bite from even the smallest fish. It’s been designed to handle a lure weight of 0.1 - 1.1oz, and there’s more than enough power here to handle a medium load.
If you’re looking to catch small-medium sized bass than you’ll struggle to find something better than this rod, for bigger bass you might find that the rod is capable of holding its own, but be warned that a heavy fish may damage the rod.
Pros
- Looks great
- Is very durable and well-constructed
- Made with high-quality materials
- Casts excellently
- The very secure reel seat
- Two-piece design makes it a great option for the hiking angler
Cons
- Not the best option for the really heavy bass
- Unique and Professional Design - It comes with 2 tips. You can get two different power rod tips, medium and medium heavy. It's like getting 2 rods in 1. The 2 different tips makes it easy to adjust to your casting weight. It is very versatile. Great for carrying one rod instead of two and unless you break the base section, you have a spare tip should you break one of them. Good value for the money, nice to have additional tips for different fishing action and replacement
- 24 Ton Carbon Fiber - Light weight with tremendous overall strength; strong and structurally enhanced solid carbon fiber construction, maximizes strength while maintaining sensitivity
- Extreme Exposure Reel Seat - Enhanced reel seat with corrosion resistant aluminum hoods; Full-Contact Reel Seat with Soft Touch finish
- “K-R” and “FINESSE” Guide Series - 6+1 corrosion resistant guides, perfectly spaced for virtually friction-free line flow and maximum casting performance and sensitivity, adopt “K-R” and “FINESSE” guide series
- High Density EVA Handles - High density EVA gives greater sensitivity and durability, add to your control and fishing comfort; Special design on handle, more comfortable, which allow you to spent long days on the water with minimum fatigue
RUNNER UP
Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Bass Fishing Rod
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If you’re a beginner looking for a great all-rounder for bass fishing than this is a very sensitive rod, with a great backbone and excellent action. More experienced anglers will find a lot to like in this rod too as the innovative design includes a cork handle with a reel attached.
The handle is very comfortable and gives a very strong grip that’s easy to hold for a long period. The entire rod is very durable and strong, Berkley has tried hard only include well-made and hard-wearing components and it shows in the overall construction of the rod.
This casting rod has more than enough give to catch bass from whatever type of cover they have, it’ll be able to use live bait, spinnerbaits, plastic baits, cut bait, or frogs should you wish, and the rod is versatile enough as a whole to be used to catch bass, catfish, and trout, as well as a wide range of other species should you wish.
It’s also a good option for kayak fishing if you’re interested in trying something new and it gives an excellent performance in a variety of conditions. If you’re a beginner or an angler with more experience than this is a very affordable rod with more than enough power to catch some excellent fish, and it’s a very fun rod to use.
Pros
- Very light and easy to use
- Comfortable and durable handle that makes it easy to use the rod for long periods
- Looks great
- Good for a variety of skill sets
- Great casting
Cons
- Butt-end is a little shorter than most beginner anglers will be used to
- Hybrid design construction for un-matched sensitivity with the security of through handle construction
- SS304 Guides - 20x tougher and 55% lighter than traditional aluminum oxide guides and are factory tested for dependability
- Cork handle design for added comfort and grip
- Line rating:8-17 lbs
RUNNER UP
Pflueger Trion Reel and Bass Fishing Rod
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This is a great rod and reel combo that’s well-made and gives a consistently strong performance in a variety of different situations. Made with I-M6 graphite - mid-modulus blank this rod is durable and lightweight with an impressive 7 stainless steel ball-bearing system.
The graphite construction gives an amazing responsiveness to the rod and it’s more than sensitive enough to let you know when you’ve got a nibble. The rod is a bit shorter than normal, but this offers you more controlled casting and excellent precision when in pursuit of your target.
The handle is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is very comfortable to use or to find an excellent grip. This rod has excellent casting ability, while the reel is well-made and is very smooth with excellent drag. The rigidity of this option makes it a good choice if you're luring bass from heavy cover, and you’ll find a real improvement as a beginner with this rod.
If you’re a beginner looking for a great rod, but feel a little unsure about set-up than a rod and reel combo is a great solution and you’ll struggle to find better than this option. If you’re on the hunt for medium-sized bass, then this could be the rod for you. Even more, experienced anglers would enjoy this rod, especially if they’re fishing in shallow waters or want a rod with an excellent short-distance cast.
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Strong and durable
- Great balanced and lightweight
- Comfortable handle and easy to use
Cons
- Better for medium-sized fish
- Reliable fishing rod and reel combo delivers premium performance and quality at a great value
- Durable yet lightweight construction with aircraft-grade aluminum handle, aluminum spool, and graphite body and rotor
- Ultra-smooth operation with 7 stainless steel ball bearings
- Stainless steel and oiled felt drag system delivers smooth, consistent drag pressure
- Lightweight, durable IM-6 graphite rod delivers sensitivity and responsiveness
Best Bass fishing rods Buying Guide
Hopefully, you now feel you know a bit more about what type of rod will suit you, and the sort of thing you’re on the lookout for. But just in case you still want more information this section will take you through some of the things to watch out for when you’re picking your new rod.
Handles
As you hold your rod in your hands you need to have a strong and comfortable grip so that no matter what you catch, or how heavy it is, or how long you’ve been waiting you can haul it in. The most common handles are cork, EVA, or wood. Cork or EVA is most anglers' first choice because wood can become slippery and hard to grip, especially when it’s cold.
Cork gives you a lot of grip, is lighter than wooden handles, and is more sensitive so it’s easier to know when you’ve got a bite. EVA is very durable as long as it’s attached to the blanks, and most anglers find it the most comfortable handle materials. Seasoned wood handles can last longer than cork, but they tend to be more expensive.
Power
Also known as the backbone, the power of the rod tells you how strong the rod is overall, and how much power is needed to bend the rod. Briefly, the power of your rod depends on how easily it bends. Your rod power can be heavy, medium-heavy, medium, light, or ultra-light. If you’re going after larger fish than you need a rod with heavy power, for baitfish you’re probably going to want a light power rod.
Medium is what most anglers go for as you have a good middle ground that can catch you some large fish, but also give you a bit of flexibility.
Action
The action of a rod tells you how flexible, or stiff it is when it bends. How far down the rod from the tip where the rod begins to bend under pressure gives you the action of the rod. Your rod can be extra fast, fast, moderate, or slow action. Extra-fast is more sensitive and more suited for big fish or heavy covers like docks or woods.
The faster action tip puts more pressure on the bass, so this is probably what you want the more experienced you get at catching bass. For smaller bass, you might want the greater flexibility that slow action rods give you, and beginners may want something a bit more moderate. At the end of the day, this is a personal choice, and you’ll know what action will suit you and your fishing best.
Best Bass fishing rods - FAQ's
What is a bass fishing rod?
A bass rod is a versatile rod that’s generally fast action and medium to heavy action depending on location and the size of the bass you’re going after. Bass rods are often spinning or casting rods.
How long is a bass rod?
A bass rod is normally around 6-8 feet long. Beginners should start at the lower end of the scale to have more control over the rod.
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