Surf rods tend to be a unique type of fishing rod, as they need to have increased performance to manage waves and tides. They also need to have enhanced durability, as saltwater can easily corrode and break down the rod over time. When considering purchasing a surf rod, there are generally three different kinds of surf fishing to consider: light duty bottom fishing rods, heavy-duty lure rods for fast swimming species, and longer rods for heavier fish species.
Depending upon the type of surf fishing you will be doing, the right surf rod can vary between different levels of strength, length, and lure capability. The best surf rods will have a healthy mixture of durability and enhanced features to provide robust performance throughout even the toughest of conditions. Ultimately, finding the best surf rod begins with first identifying the type of surf fishing you will be doing, followed by identifying the surf rod that best possesses those key characteristics.
Best Surf Rods for Your Money
- Shakespeare Two-Piece Ugly Stik Bigwater
- Available in 9, 10, 11, 12, and 15-foot
- Durable EVA grips
- 5-year warranty
- Ugly Stik Clear Tip design
- Hurricane Bluefin Spinning Surf Rod
- Double dipped E-glass rod blank
- Aluminum oxide guides
- 12-foot length
- Graphite reel seat
- Penn Prevail Surf Fishing Rod
- 2-piece graphite composite blank
- Sizes ranging from 8-12 feet
- Stainless steel guides
- Rubber shrink tube handles
- Daiwa Beefstick Surf Spin Rod
- Extra-strong tubular fiberglass blank
- Cut-proof ceramic line guides
- Non-slip EVA grip
- Stainless-composite hooded reel seat
- Eat My Tackle Saltwater Surf Rod
- Six oversized guides
- Premium grade fiberglass blank
- Anodized aluminum reel seat
- 10’ length
Overview of the 5 Top-Rated Surf Rods
Many anglers find it difficult to find the best surf rod for their needs. Not only are there tons of models and brands to choose from, but it can be difficult to pinpoint the features that should accompany the best surf rods. This review has taken a close look at the five top-rated surf rods to provide a comprehensive analysis of the best surf rod qualities that anglers look for.
By carefully examining the best fishing rods that are currently on the market, any surf fisherman will find themselves prepared to invest in the surf rod that is best-suited for their individual needs.
1. Shakespeare Two-Piece Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod
An incredibly well-known name in rod design, the Ugly Stik series has been a best-selling series for decades. The Ugly Stik rods are one of the most durable rods available, particularly when compared to similar graphite surf rods. With five different lengths to choose from, anglers should have no difficulty finding the right length for them. Depending upon the length, the Ugly Stik Bigwater spinning rod will fall into a range of power, from medium, medium-heavy, and heavy.
The 7 and 11-foot rods are the most powerful of the group, with heavy power to bring in the largest and strongest of fish species.
The line guides on each and every Ugly Stik model are composed of stainless steel with aluminum oxide inserts, ensuring that even the saltiest water won’t cause corrosion. As an additional benefit, the reel seats are outfitted with corrosion-resistant stainless steel hoods, making this surf rod perfectly suited for freshwater and saltwater use.
2. Hurricane Bluefin Spinning Surf Rod
Best known for their variety of sports equipment, Hurricane provides a thoroughly durable and incredibly valuable surf rod. One of the best features of their Bluefin model is the double dipped E-glass rod blank. This coating enhances durability and strength, ensuring that the surf rod can last for years of surf fishing. In fact, this rod is made specifically with durability in mind, as the rod is mainly composed of corrosion-resistant components.
The graphite reel seat has stainless steel cushioned hoods, which work to prevent distress and decay from consistent saltwater use. The 12-foot length of the rod offers superior casting capability, making it a great option for those looking to fish from the beach.
For onshore fishing amidst strong waves, the Hurricane Bluefin model is a great choice. Not only is it sturdy and durable enough to withstand crashing ocean waves, but it packs enough strength to bring in heavy, fighting fish species.
3. Penn Prevail Surf Fishing Rod
For anglers who like to keep weight in mind, the Penn Prevail Surf Fishing Rod is one of the most lightweight models available. The 2-piece graphite composite blank and the graphite reel seat work together to keep weight at a minimum, without sacrificing the overall durability of the reel. An added benefit to graphite is that it is naturally corrosion-resistant, meaning that anglers can easily transfer this surf rod between saltwater and freshwater environments.
The rubber shrink tube handles provide a thoroughly secure grip, whether the rod is dry or wet, making this an ideal surf rod. As an additional benefit to this surf fishing rod, a layer of carbon fiber has been applied to act as an outer shield, protecting guide wraps and rod blanks from damage.
Anglers looking for a lightweight, durable surf rod will find themselves pleasantly surprised by the combination of performance and structural integrity in the Penn Prevail.
4. Daiwa Beefstick Surf Spin Rod
Daiwa rods are widely used by anglers across the world, making them one of the most popular names in fishing equipment. The Beefstick Surf Spin Rod is certainly no different, accumulating numerous positive reviews for its durability and performance out on the water.
The fiberglass blank provides enhanced strength and durability, enabling the rod to withstand years of use, both in freshwater and saltwater environments. The cut-proof ceramic line guides keep the fishing line perfectly in place, offering guidance and added corrosion protection against harmful salt sprays.
At only 1.8 pounds, anglers will find that holding this surf rod for extended periods of time is much easier, enhancing and prolonging each and every surf fishing outing.
An additional feature to improve comfort is the non-slip EVA grip, which helps prevent accidental drops into the water. Reviews consistently praise the Daiwa Beefstick model for providing excellent casting and enhanced durability, making it an excellent choice for a surf fishing rod.
5. Eat My Tackle Saltwater Surf Rod
For high quality that doesn't come with a high price tag, look no further than the Saltwater Surf Rod from Eat My Tackle. With its 10-foot length, this surf rod is formatted to allow for longer and smoother casts, making it an excellent choice for those who plan to surf fish from the sand. Part of its smooth performance also comes from the six oversized line guides, which allow for a more fluid disbursement of fishing line.
The guides also come with double wraps, keeping the line safe and secure. This also enhances the overall durability of the rod, as anglers won’t need to worry about friction or breakage.
The rod itself is rated with a flex of 15-30 pounds, making it ideal for casting overhead into the surf for medium to heavy fish species. As an additional benefit, this surf rod breaks down into two pieces to allow for simple transportation from the carrying case into the surf.
As a high-quality reel with an affordable price point, the Saltwater Surf Rod from Eat My Tackle has earned consistently high reviews, making it one of the best surf rods on the market.
Buying Guide for Surf Rods
When looking for the best surf rod for you, there are a few general characteristics that you will want to consider. Keep in mind the following features of surf rods:
Length
Much of what determines the right length for a surf rod depends on the height of the angler. If you are taller, a longer rod will be easy to manage, whereas you may find a shorter rod might be limiting. The same goes for shorter statures: a shorter rod will be much easier to handle, whereas a longer rod may make surf fishing more difficult.
The length of the rod will also determine casting distance, as well. Rods that are between 10-12 feet will cast much further than rods that are 8-9 feet. If you are looking to cast a longer distance into the surf, look for a longer rod that can easily and efficiently get the job done.
Rod action
As it applies to flexibility, surf rod action will determine how much the rod can bend. Depending upon individual casting technique, a surf rod that bends in the center may be better than one that bends at the tip. Generally speaking, most surf rods are best equipped to bend at the tip, offering a more fluid cast.
Power
This is particularly important for surf fishing, as the ocean environment can be somewhat unpredictable. Anglers that are fishing for smaller fish species often find themselves hooking larger, unexpected species instead. The best surf rods will be well-equipped to handle medium to heavy pressure. Not only does this allow for variation in fish species, but it also helps ensure that the rod will remain durable and intact when used amidst large waves.
Conclusion
Surf fishing is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable fishing methods. By standing in the surf, on the beach, or on a pier, anglers can bring in a vast variety of fish species while enjoying the unique scenery that surf fishing provides. Of course, the best way to experience surf fishing is by using the right equipment. Finding the best surf rod is the best way to work towards a thoroughly productive and fulfilling surf fishing experience.
Looking for the best surf rods often involves examining the top-rated surf rods that have gathered high amounts of praise for durability, strength, and performance. In analyzing the top 5 surf rods, any angler will find themselves in the best position to choose the best surf rod for their surf fishing excursions.
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