Best fishing rod

fishing rod
(Image credit: Amazon)

A good fishing rod (and reel) is the way you get to enjoy one of the world’s oldest and most loved activities - fishing. There are so many pieces of equipment and accessories around fishing - from lures to boats - that it’s easy to lose focus on the importance of the rod and reel. 

The best rods are made from high-tech composite materials that can handle the biggest catch you can dream of and should last for years. It also makes them versatile enough to catch a wide variety of fish. Here are the fishing rods we recommend.

Best overall

fishing rods

(Image credit: Amazon)

PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Strong and flexible

This high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass rod is designed to be durable with perfect elasticity. It’s telescopic for portability with a convenient closed length for carrying. The stainless steel hooded reel seat won’t get corroded by seawater. Instant anti-reverse, it has power drive gears equipped for high strength. 

Best value

fishing rods

(Image credit: Amazon)

Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2-Piece Fishing Rod Combo

Durable and well-equipped

A 5.5ft durable fiberglass rod with split cork/EVA handle, this two-piece has Medium power and is ideal for panfish, trout, walleye, bass, catfish, striper, and some saltwater fishing. The all-metal gears should last for years and there are dual ceramic pick-up pins for a smooth retrieve and long life. A quickset anti-reverse gives a solid hookset with a changeable right or left-hand retrieve. and bite alert.

Best for beginners

fishing rods

(Image credit: Amazon)

Sougayilang Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

Good for saltwater and freshwater

This fishing starter kit comes with a composite carbon fiber and fiberglass telescopic rod, an aluminum reel plus 100m fishing line, lures, hooks and a carrier bag to keep it all in, The rod has stainless steel guides and Zirconium Oxide rings for superior casting distance. It’s designed for saltwater and freshwater fishing.

Best for fly fishing

fishing rods

(Image credit: Amazon)

Wild Water Fly Fishing 9 Foot, 4-Piece, 5/6 Weight Fly Rod

Everything for fly fishing

With a 9ft, four-piece graphite rod and 85mm diameter aluminum reel this is a great fly fishing starter set and comes complete with a rod case and bag, and a fly box. The fly box includes nine flies. The package is ideal for trout, panfish, small bass, small to medium streams, ponds, and backpacking.

Bottom line

You can trust Advnture Our expert reviewers spend days testing and comparing gear so you know how it will perform out in the real world. Find out more about how we test and compare products.

For a pastime that’s all about escaping from the stresses of modern life to spend a peaceful spell in nature, it’s easy to get confused with all the different options and paraphernalia around fishing. But by getting a good rod and reel set you can forget the complexity and get on with the relaxing business of catching some fish. The fishing rod we would recommend to most people is the PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo. This affordable set has everything you need to start fishing and is centered around a good quality rod and durable reel that should set you off on your fishing odyssey. 

If you’re looking to get started in fly fishing the Wild Water Fly Fishing 9 Foot, 4-Piece, 5/6 Weight Fly Rod. It’s a good package for this often intimidatingly complex style of fishing and should have you tying flies and casting off in no time.

Advnture team

Launched in July 2020, Advnture is the ideal destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're into epic hikes through the wilderness, camping trips with the family, climbing with your friends, or looking for a trail running personal best, our team of experts will point you in the right direction, with top buying advice and in-depth guides to help you get the most of your time in the backcountry.