BEST BASS FISHING RODS 2023

The Okuma EVX is a fantastic spinning rod for bass fishing to cast and definitely in the running for the best fishing pole for bass, offering both power and fast action. It is no wonder this is the rod of choice for a lot of the pros. This is a technique specific rod and was designed for tournament anglers, so if you’ve got an itch to throw your line in the water against the best, or simply want to step up your game, this might be the rod for you.

PIECES: 2 Piece
ROD TYPE: Casting
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium / Heavy
LENGTH: 7’0”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Ultralight Carbon Fiber

This adaptable, wholesome spinning rod for bass fishing is particularly designed to be used with a baitcasting reel since it’s the go-to choice for many bass fishermen. Coming in hot with an array of sizes to choose from makes Maxim a suitable choice for both men and women. Thanks to its fast action trait and its solid hooksets, Phenix’s Maxim vouches for a nice level of sensitivity, without cutting back on being lightweight, and well-balanced – all due to its carbon fiber construction.
Especially proud of its custom-designed lockable reel seat, Phenix’s Maxim also boasts a comfy EVA anti-slip handle, along with the SiC guides that make sure the line stays in place, knot-free.

PIECES: 1 Piece
ROD TYPE: Casting
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
LENGTH: 6’10”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon

Being a technique-specific rod, the Serrano Carbon spinning rod for bass fishing is designed with a 24-ton carbon blank that ensures responsiveness and durability. Also, Okuma’s UFR tip technology made this rod one of the utmost quality, delivering extra lifting strength and power. Boasting Fuji K-concept guide frames that give this spinning rod the stability and the option for a tangle-free fishing experience, the Serrano Carbon is also detailed with Fuji FAZ-light guide inserts that ensure superb performance, suitable for using braided lines. And, last but not least, the Winn grip and the EVA rear split handle design ensure maximum comfort.

PIECES: 1 Piece
ROD TYPE: Spinning
ACTION: Extra Fast
POWER: Medium
LENGTH: 7’3”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon

This durable workhorse of the novice bass fishing world combines graphite and fiberglass to give you a strong yet flexible spinning rod for bass fishing that is durable and light enough for most adventures. EVA grips won’t let that bass slip out of your hands, and the medium power will sink your hook deep, making sure your fish doesn’t slip away either. If you want one of the best bass fishing rods for the money, one that won’t let you down, the GX2 will do the job and do it well.

PIECES: 2 Pieces
ROD TYPE: Spinning / Casting
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium
LENGTH: 7’’
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite/Fiberglass

The Ugly Stick Elite spinning rod for bass fishing is a step or two up from the GX2 offering smoother function and overall quality, backed by an incredible 7-year warranty. Similar to others in the Ugly Stick line, this bass rod is made with Graphite construction. This keeps the price lower without sacrificing too much on the durability front. Definitely one of the best bass rods for your money.

PIECES: 2 Piece
ROD TYPE: Spinning Rod
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium / Heavy
LENGTH: 7’0”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

It’s impossible to make a list like this without adding in an Abu Garcia rod. The Veritas is light, durable, and balances superbly in your hand. The 30-ton lightweight graphite design and sleek look make this a really great rod. It is also seriously affordable and feels organic in your hands. Factor this all together and the Abu Garcia Veritas finds itself in the running for the best spinning rod for bass. A medium or a medium/heavy will get the job done with fast action to let you know the fish is on the line early.

PIECES: 2 Piece / 1 Piece
ROD TYPE: Spinning Rod
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium / Heavy
LENGTH: 7’0”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

KastKing’s Perigee II has fantastic value. This bass pole not only boasts an affordable price, but it also doubles down on quality. Carbon fiber construction and Fuji O line guides give the Perigee strength and smooth operation. One of KastKings great-looking bass poles, this rod has plenty of extras to brag about. Rated as a casting and spinning rod and sold in one and two-piece construction, the Perigee II has options to suit most anglers.

PIECES: 2 Piece / 1 Piece
ROD TYPE: Casting / Spinning
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium / Heavy
LENGTH: 7’0”, 7’1”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon Fiber

A classic bass fishing rod made with a discrete and somehow elegant camo design that makes me feel like a day out fishing with my grandfather. Somehow this baitcasting rod managed to blend nostalgia with quality construction and functionality. Corrosion-free guides and 24-ton carbon fiber construction give this rod both strength and smooth functioning. Entsport makes more than just one series of good bass rods; they make three: the E, N, and T.

PIECES: 2 Piece
ROD TYPE: Casting
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium / Heavy
LENGTH: 7’0”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon Fiber

Lew’s American Hero is one of those fishing rods that’ll provide fast action with perfect accuracy. The American Hero can easily withstand weight ranging from 20 to 40 lbs. It features a zero-reverse, one-way clutch bearing, which translates to having a powerful 6-bearing system of stainless steel, double-shielded bearings. Also, by including the famous Lew’s graphite skeletal reel seat, this sturdy fishing rod will ensure the mono line stays in place and vouch for a knot-free fishing experience. Plus, the split-grip EVA handle delivers a comfortable feel that adjusts nicely to the hand, regardless of how long you use it.

PIECES: 1 Piece
ROD TYPE: Casting
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
LENGTH: 7’6”
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

It’s not unusual to read about companies claiming to have the best bass casting rod, the best bass spinning rod. What most of us really want to know is, what specifics do I need to look for to tell me what the best bass fishing rod is for my budget? We all want value for our money. The answer is simple; there is no best fishing pole for bass. Like it or not, whether you have a G.Loomis in your hand and your buddy has an Ugly Stick, your ability to read the lake, weather patterns, and practiced skill with your gear all play factors in your success. That being said, let us get you a little bit closer to the ultimate set up for your budget. A professional list of best bass rods should factor in action, power, length, construction materials, and ease of transport.

Good bass fishing rods have fast or extra-fast action. This means that when a fish takes your bait, the tip of your rod will bend first, letting you know early that you have a fish on, and allows you to react quickly in setting your hook. It is easy to lose a bass with a slower action rod unless the bass goes after your bait aggressively. The faster the rod action, the sooner you can react. To simplify power, it is essentially how much flex is in the rod, so when you pull to set your hook, you can drive it deep into the mouth of the fish. If you have a light rod, it will flex and won’t drive in the hook. This is ok when you are jigging for fish well beneath your boat because the force will come from a hard upward motion. Bass tend to be in the sunny areas close to the surface where there is some structure, and you need to set your hook deep quickly, so you don’t lose your fish.

Length is essential for a few reasons; mostly, it will depend on the location you are fishing. The best bass fishing rods for long casts are longer rods. They create a more significant arc and give your bait the height and distance. It’s a great feeling to cast a long bass pole and watch your bait fly, but it’s an equally nice feeling to hit the perfect drop shot. The best bass fishing rods for drop shots, dealing with overhead hazards, or playing near the dock are shorter bass poles. They don’t have the casting distance but are far superior for technical fishing and for fishing in areas with overhead hazards or limited space for rod movement.

Traveling and transport will always be an issue when choosing the length and number of pieces. Good one piece bass rods can be extremely handy tools and aren’t tough to transport, but once you start looking at seven or eight-foot rods, things can get tricky. Breakage is always a concern, so if you decide to go with a longer one-piece, make sure to look at cargo carrier options or keep it on site. Two-piece poles are the best rods for bass fishing if you are looking for versatility. They pack down nicely, and there are lots of carrying case options out there. No matter what you decide, make sure there is a plan for protecting your investment.

1. How are bass fishing rods different from normal rods?

The odds are that you will always pull a few different species out of the water no matter what rod you are using, but if you want to focus on bass, there are a few standouts to look for that will set it apart from the other rods in your arsenal – specifically, action and power. A good bass fishing rod has fast or extra-fast action. A fast action rod lets you know there is a fish on the line early, and those fractions of a second could mean the difference between pulling up and setting your hook deep or that trophy bass you’ve been dreaming about spitting your bait back into the reeds. Nobody likes to be the angler who talks about the fish that got away. Not to mention the frustrations we all feel when having to rebait our hook every 5 minutes. Being fast is only part of the solution; now, you’ll need the power to set the hook quickly. Go with a medium/heavy rod to generate the force required. Lighter rods can do the job, but when you’re fishing in the shallows, you’re going to need something more substantial to drag your challenger out of the weeds, and you’ll be glad your hook is sunk in deep when it jumps.

2. How do I choose a spinning rod for my bass?

If you have the opportunity, it’s best to give each reel a few spins to see how they feel. You are looking for smooth, fast rotation. Cheap or poorly maintained reels have a grinding feel to them that can frustrate you after a few dozen casts. When buying online, check to see how many ball bearings they included in the build. The more bearings, the less free space inside for movement and dirt collection, creating a smoother spin that will make you feel like a pro out on the water. 5 is a good number to keep in mind for a good quality reel. It might sound like a good idea to have a heavy rod with a light reel, but it’s not. It is vital to keep your rod balanced, so it rests comfortably in your hand and doesn’t tip aggressively in any direction. To create the best balance, seek out a reel that is designed for the size of the rod. If you are using a medium/heavy rod, use a similar reel.
We can spend a lot of time talking about drag for your spinning reel, ultimately, make sure it is adjustable, most newer rods should be. High-end reels will have better drag systems, but a savvy angler will have it vset correctly.

3. What size rod is good for bass fishing?

The quick answer is 7 feet for a versatile rod size. The long answer is, it depends on where you are fishing. When fishing from the boat or casting far out from shore, it is always nice to have a long rod. It’s a great feeling being able to cast a few feet further than your boat mates allowing you to hit an elusive spot their rods can’t get to, an even better feeling when you hit the bass hiding there. If you are fishing close to shore or in around the dock, you may want to opt for a shorter rod in your arsenal. A shorter rod will give you more accuracy and let you drop your bait in exactly where you want it in difficult situations when dealing with weeds and rocks. How short will depend on how close the quarters are and how much brush is in your way casting at your favorite spots. The shorter you go, the less casting power you will have, so if you do a lot of fishing in different situations, it’s good to have a long, short, and all-rounder in your arsenal.

4. Should I use a spinning rod or a casting rod for bass fishing?

The age-old debate. Spinning rods are great for technical fishing and will always be an essential part of your kit. They can handle small/medium-sized baits and are easy to use and learn on. This is a great rod for beginners, and a pro should always have one in the boat for when the bass are hiding in tough-to-fish areas. Casting rods are the workhorse of bass fishing, and you’ll be glad you have one or even a few set up with different baits when casting all day. Casting rods take a little longer to learn on but not by much. Once learned, casting rods offer you that long cast that will put you in the fish all day long if things don’t get too hairy.

5. One-piece or two-piece rod?

It’s hard to argue that any two-piece rod can outperform the perfect one-piece rod. Many of us that love to fish like to try out different locations, and one-piece rods can be a pain to transport in the car, plane, ATV, or even walking through the bush to remote spots. If you spend your time at the cottage and don’t have to move around a lot, it’s a bonus to have a one-piece premium rod. Otherwise, go with a two-piece, it is versatile, easy to carry, and you won’t suffer much for quality. If the only rod you own is a one-piece, you’ll be cursing it the first time you take a bush walk or cursing your friends the first time someone accidentally damages it in transport.

6. Is it better to get a blank and add the reel or to get a combo rod and reel?

For the novice fisherman, it’s best to pick up a combo. Purchasing a set that has been put together for you ahead of time means that someone who knows more about fishing than you has taken the time to match an appropriate real to an appropriate rod. They will likely be similar in quality and balanced. If it’s a combo all made by the same company, you can most likely count on it. If you’re an avid fisherman, you’ll likely know what you like, and product combos often don’t have the precise specs we are looking for. Buying a blank rod and adding a reel lets you pick the exact feel and function you want for specific types of fishing. Not even the pros can agree on one particular rod or reel being the best, or the best for one situation, so experiment and don’t be afraid to mix and match once you’ve put in the hours.

7. Which type of rod is better for boats?

Looking for the long cast to get your bait near the rocks but don’t want to get the boat too close? Then go for a longer 7+ foot rod to get your bait far out. Want stick close to shore and play in the reeds and around logs? Get something short/mid-range under 7 feet to hit those drop shots and keep control and accuracy over your casts, so you don’t get snagged up. Medium/heavy and fast/extra fast action is always recommended to set the hook fast and deep and help you haul that fighter back over to the boat through whatever obstacles may cause you friction along the way. Alternatively, Why not mix things up and try your hand at bowfishing from a boat.

8. Which type of rod is better for dock and shore fishing?

If you’re fishing from the beach and have a lot of casting room, or even from a dock on big open water, go with a longer rod to get your casts out far and give your prey an opportunity to chase the bait. If prime fishing is only a few feet away off the end of the dock or you’re dealing with tricky overhead branches, go with a shorter rod to make maneuvering easier. This will help you cast further with a clear swing and help you get the bait exactly where you want it. Long rods are fun, but when you know exactly where the fish are swimming, and they are only a few feet away, casting accurately can become difficult with a rod that is taller than you are. Try a 5-foot medium-heavy, and you will fall in love with the ability to drop your bait right in front of a bass eying up.

9. Which rod type is best for catching sea bass?

Fishing for sea bass can mean longer casting, which means heavier bait and a longer rod. An 8-foot rod can get you a lot of distance off the shore. If you’re casting far out, go for a heavier rod to give you a little extra power setting the hook. Casting rods will trump spinners in this area and handle the larger bait better as well.

10. What is the best baitcasting rod for bass fishing?

The Okuma EVX is a great rod for baitcasting and is used by amateurs and pros alike. You can hit a lot of bass from a lot of situations with a 7-foot EVX, but don’t forget to pack something for those tricky technical spots too.

As always, we create our content with you, fellow adventurers, in mind. So, how’d we do? Did you find this informative? Did it help you make a decision? Did we miss anything? We’d love to hear from you below. Thanks for reading and we hope your next adventure is a great one!