15 Best Surf Fishing Rods: Tested and Reviewed
If you’re considering surfing, it’s crucial to have the appropriate gear, particularly a high-quality surf fishing rod.
This article will delve into the best surf fishing rods, outlining the various types of rods and essential characteristics to consider when selecting a surf fishing rod.
What Are the Types of Surf Fishing Rods?
Surf fishing rods come in different types, each designed for specific fishing tactics, conditions, and personal preferences.
Here are the most common types of the best surf fishing rods:
- Spinning Rods: Spinning rods are the most popular type of surf fishing rods. They are easy to use and versatile, making them ideal for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Spinning rods come in different lengths and actions, and you can use them for casting lures or bait.
- Conventional Rods: Conventional rods are less common than spinning rods, but they are more powerful and can handle heavier lines and lures. They are ideal for fishing in rough surf conditions or targeting larger fish species.
- Fly Rods: Fly rods are designed for fly fishing, a technique that involves casting a lightweight fly lure with a weighted line. Fly fishing is less common in surf fishing, but it can be a fun and challenging way to catch fish.
What Are the Features of the Best Surf Fishing Rods?
Here are some of the most important features to consider when choosing the best surf fishing rods:
- Length: The length of the rod is an important factor to consider, as it affects the casting distance and the amount of leverage you have when fighting a fish. Longer rods are ideal for casting longer distances, while shorter rods are better for casting in tight spaces or fishing in shallow water.
- Action: The action of a rod refers to how flexible it is. Fast-action rods are stiffer and more sensitive, making them ideal for casting lures and detecting bites quickly. Slow-action rods are more flexible and forgiving, making them better for casting bait and fighting larger fish.
- Power: The power of a rod refers to its strength and ability to handle heavy lines and lures. Light power rods are ideal for catching small to medium-sized fish, while heavy power rods are better for targeting larger fish species.
- Materials: The materials used to make the rod affect its weight, sensitivity, and durability. Graphite and fiberglass are the most common materials used for surf fishing rods, with graphite being lighter and more sensitive, and fiberglass being more durable.
- Handle: The handle of the rod should be comfortable and provide a good grip, even when wet. Cork and EVA foam are the most common materials used for handles, with cork being more comfortable and EVA foam being more durable.
What Are the Best Surf Fishing Rods in 2023?
If you are short of time, here is a summary of the best surf fishing rods.
| Category | Product |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | St. Croix Avid Surf Casting Rod |
| Best for Beginners | Okuma Cedros Surf CSX Graphite Surf Fishing Rod |
| Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo | Okuma Celilo Salmon/Steelhead |
| Other Top Picks | St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod |
| Shimano Tiralejo XX TRJXS96M | |
| Tsunami Airwave | |
| Penn Battle III LE Rod and Reel Combo | |
| Carnage III | |
| Tica UGSA Series Surf Spinning Rod | |
| Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod | |
| Fiblink Surf Spinning Rod | |
| St. Croix Legend Surf Spinning | |
| St. Croix Seage SES106MHMF2 | |
| Okuma Rockaway SP |
Now let’s discuss each of these surf fishing rods in detail:
St. Croix Avid Surf Casting Rod
The St. Croix Avid Surf Casting Rod is a top-quality surf fishing rod designed for maximum casting distance and superior fish-fighting performance.
So why does the St. Croix Avid Surf Casting Rod rank as one of the best surf fishing rods? Let’s have a look.
Features:
- Length: Available in various sizes to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent casting distance.
- Superior fish-fighting performance.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
Okuma Cedros Surf CSX Graphite Surf Fishing Rod
The Okuma Cedros Surf CSX Graphite Surf Fishing Rod is a great option for beginners looking to get started in surf fishing.
It features in our list of the best surf fishing rods for its ease of use, low maintenance, and long casting capabilities.
Features:
- Length: Suitable for beginners, around 9-11ft.
- Power: Medium power for versatility.
- Construction: Made with graphite for strength and sensitivity.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Long casting capabilities.
- Suitable for beginners.
- Comfortable handle.
Cons:
- Limited power options.
- May not be suitable for experienced anglers.
Okuma Celilo Salmon/Steelhead
The Okuma Celilo Salmon/Steelhead is a versatile surf fishing rod and reel combo that offers great value for money.
It is designed for targeting salmon and steelhead, but can also be used for surf fishing.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths for different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with durable materials for long-lasting performance.
- Reel: Included reel with smooth operation and line capacity suitable for surf fishing.
Pros:
- Versatile for targeting multiple fish species.
- Good value for money.
- Smooth reel operation.
- Durable construction.
Cons:
- Limited length options.
- May not be suitable for specialized surf fishing.
St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod
The St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod is a high-performance surf rod that provides great value for serious anglers.
It is specifically designed for extreme fishing conditions, which is why it ranks among the best surf fishing rods.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent performance and value.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Fast action for increased sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
Shimano Tiralejo XX TRJXS96M
The Shimano Tiralejo XX TRJXS96M is a high-quality surf fishing rod designed for maximum casting distance and accuracy.
It is made with advanced materials and technology to provide superior performance and durability.
Features:
- Length: 9ft 6in length for long casting distance.
- Power: Medium power for versatility.
- Construction: Made with advanced materials for strength and sensitivity.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- Superior casting distance and accuracy.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Made with advanced materials for strength and sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited power options.
Tsunami Airwave
The Tsunami Airwave is one of the best surf fishing rods in the market in 2023. The rod offers excellent sensitivity and power.
The rod is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions.
Features:
- Length: Available in various sizes to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent sensitivity and power.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Fast action for increased sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
Penn Battle III LE Rod and Reel Combo
The Penn Battle III LE Rod and Reel Combo is a high-quality surf fishing combo that offers excellent performance and value.
It is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Reel: Included reel with smooth operation and line capacity suitable for surf fishing.
Pros:
- Excellent performance and value.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Smooth reel operation.
- Suitable for catching larger fish.
Cons:
- Limited length options.
- May not be suitable for specialized surf fishing.
Carnage III
The Carnage III couldn’t miss in our list of the best surf fishing rods.
It is a high-performance surf fishing rod that offers excellent sensitivity and power.
It is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent sensitivity and power.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Fast action for increased sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
Tica UGSA Series Surf Spinning Rod
The Tica UGSA Series Surf Spinning Rod is a high-quality surf fishing rod that is constructed from high-modulus TC3 graphite. It is designed to throw hard baits such as topwater and spoons over long distances.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with high modulus TC3 graphite for strength and sensitivity.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Able to throw hard baits over long distances.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Made with high modulus TC3 graphite for strength and sensitivity.
Cons:
- Limited Length Options
- May Not Be Suitable for Heavy Lures
Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod
The Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod is a versatile surf fishing rod that offers great value for money.
It is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions and highly regarded as one of the best surf fishing rods.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- Versatile for targeting multiple fish species.
- Good value for money.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Suitable for catching larger fish.
Cons:
- May Be Heavy for Some Anglers
- May Not Be Sensitive Enough for Some Fishing Situations
Fiblink Surf Spinning Rod
The Fiblink Surf Spinning Rod is a budget-friendly surf fishing rod that offers good performance and value.
The Fishing rod is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- Good performance and value.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Suitable for catching larger fish.
Cons:
- Ferrule Guides May Require Sanding
St. Croix Legend Surf Spinning
If you’re looking for a high-performance surf fishing rod with great sensitivity and power, the St. Croix Legend Surf Spinning is definitely worth considering.
It’s widely regarded as one of the best surf fishing rods out there, thanks to its design specifically for catching larger fish in surf conditions.
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent sensitivity and power.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Fast action for increased sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
St. Croix Seage SES106MHMF2
The St. Croix Seage SES106MHMF2 is a high-quality surf fishing rod designed for maximum casting distance and accuracy.
It is made with advanced materials and technology to provide superior performance and durability.
Features:
- Length: 10ft 6in length for long casting distance.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Construction: Made with advanced materials for strength and sensitivity.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for easy handling.
Pros:
- Superior casting distance and accuracy.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Made with advanced materials for strength and sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited power options.
Okuma Rockaway SP
The Okuma Rockaway SP is a high-performance surf fishing rod that offers excellent sensitivity and power.
It is designed for catching larger fish in surf conditions. Here is why it ranks as one of the best surf fishing rods:
Features:
- Length: Available in various lengths to suit different fishing conditions.
- Power: Medium to heavy power for catching larger fish.
- Action: Fast action for quick hook sets and increased sensitivity.
- Construction: Made with high-quality materials for durability and strength.
- Handle/Grip: Comfortable and ergonomic handle for a secure grip.
Pros:
- Excellent sensitivity and power.
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle.
- Fast action for increased sensitivity.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
- Limited length options.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Surf Fishing Rods
Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind when choosing among the best surf fishing rods.
Length and Power
The length and power of a surf fishing rod are two of the most important factors to consider.
Generally, longer rods are better for surf fishing because they allow you to cast your line farther out into the water.
However, longer rods can also be heavier and more difficult to handle, so it’s important to find a length that works for you.
In terms of power, a surf fishing rod should have enough backbone to handle the weight of the fish you’re trying to catch.
Ideally, you want a rod that is strong enough to reel in a big fish, but not so stiff that it’s difficult to cast.
Material
Surf fishing rods can be made from a variety of materials, including graphite, fiberglass, and composite materials.
Graphite rods are lightweight and sensitive, making them a popular choice for many anglers. Fiberglass rods, on the other hand, are more durable and can handle heavier fish.
Composite materials offer a blend of both materials and can be a good choice for those looking for a balance between sensitivity and strength.
Reel Seats and Guides
The reel seat and guides on a surf fishing rod are also important factors to consider.
The reel seat should be sturdy and able to hold your reel securely in place.
Look for a reel seat that is made from corrosion-resistant materials, as saltwater can be tough on fishing gear.
The guides on a surf fishing rod should be made from high-quality materials and be able to handle the weight of your fishing line.
Look for guides that are designed to reduce friction and prevent tangles.
How Should You Maintain Your Surf Fishing Rod?
It’s not sufficient to just acquire the best surf fishing rods.
To ensure that they have a long lifespan and perform optimally, proper maintenance is crucial. The following are some helpful tips.
Cleaning
After every use, it is important to clean your surf fishing rod to remove any salt, sand, or other debris that can damage the rod over time.
Here are the steps you should follow to clean your surf fishing rod:
- Rinse the rod with freshwater to remove any salt or sand.
- Use a mild soap or detergent to clean the rod, reel, and guides.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to gently scrub the rod and guides.
- Rinse the rod and guides thoroughly with freshwater.
- Dry the rod and reel with a soft cloth.
Storage
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Store your surf fishing rod in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid storing your rod in direct sunlight, as this can cause the finish to fade or crack.
- Store your rod in a rod holder or rack to prevent it from getting bent or damaged.
- When storing your surf fishing rod for an extended period of time, it is recommended to loosen the drag on your reel to prevent the line from becoming stretched or damaged.
Along with the tips mentioned above, it’s important to steer clear of these errors to prevent damaging your fishing rod.
The Best Surf Fishing Rods in a Nutshell
You now have a better understanding of what to look for when selecting from the best surf fishing rods.
Consider the length, power, and action of the rod and match it with your target species and fishing technique.
A rod that is too short or too long can negatively impact your casting distance and accuracy, while a rod that is too light or too heavy can make it difficult to catch your desired species.
It’s also important to consider your budget. While some of the top-performing surf fishing rods can be expensive, there are also plenty of high-quality options available at more affordable price points.
If you need bass fishing tips to begin, make sure to see our recent post. Also, we’ve discussed the best surf fishing rod and reel combo here.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Surf Fishing Rods
What are the top-rated surf fishing rod and reel combos?
There are several top-rated surf fishing rod and reel combos available in the market. The PENN Battle II Combo, Okuma Cedros CJ-65S Spinning Reel and Rod Combo, and the Daiwa Beefstick Surf Spin Combo are some of the best options available.
Which surf fishing rod offers the best value for the money?
If you are looking for a surf fishing rod that offers the best value for the money, then the Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is a great option. This rod is affordable, durable, and has excellent sensitivity.
What is the ideal length for a surf casting rod?
The ideal length for a surf casting rod depends on your personal preference and the type of fish you are targeting. However, most surf anglers prefer rods that are between 9 and 12 feet long.
What are the best surf fishing rods for catching larger fish like sharks?
If you are targeting larger fish like sharks, then you will need a surf fishing rod that is strong and durable. The St. Croix Mojo Surf Rod, Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Rod, and the Tica UEHA Surf Spinning Rod are some of the best options available.
What is the difference between a 12ft surf fishing rod and a shorter one?
The main difference between a 12ft surf fishing rod and a shorter one is casting distance. A 12ft surf fishing rod will allow you to cast further than a shorter one. However, shorter rods are more maneuverable and easier to handle.
Which surf rod from Shimano is the best for surf fishing?
The Shimano Tiralejo Surf Spinning Rod is one of the best surf rods from Shimano for surf fishing. This rod is designed to provide maximum casting distance and accuracy, and it is also lightweight and durable.
