Crankbaits are great if you want to catch the type of fish that eat smaller fish. If you’re using them then you might want to consider a crankbait specific rod. They work best with crankbaits and increase your chances of success while fishing. So, which one should you buy? Our Buyer’s Guide and FAQs provide plenty of information on how to choose the best crankbait rod. You’ll also find a list of features and accessories. We hope our reviews of the best 10 crankbait rods on the market will help you choose a crankbait rod to suit your fishing needs and your budget.

Popular Choice

Glass Champion Series DOBYNS

★★★★★DOBYNS RODS 704CB Glass Champion Series with AA-grade cork handles best crankbait rods

Top PickMost Popular

IMX-Pro G.LOOMIS

★★★★★

G.LOOMIS IMX-Pro Moderate Fast Carbon Fiber best crankbait rods

Best Value

Ugly Stik Elite Combo SHAKESPEARE

★★★★★

SHAKESPEARE Ugly Stik Elite Premium cork handle best crankbait rods Combo

ALL THE CRANKBAIT RODS THAT WE TESTED

G.LOOMIS IMX-Pro

OUR TOP PICK

G.LOOMIS IMX-Pro Moderate Fast Carbon Fiber best crankbait rods

General Impression

Boasting multi-taper-technology blanks, this crankbait rod turned out to be quite lighter and more powerful than its predecessors. Thanks to the cutting-edge materials used in the production of the blanks, the crankbait rod is pretty fast-responding and offers a nice level of sensitivity, with moderate to fast action. It works well with line weight from 10 – 20lb and lure weight of 3/8 – 1oz.
The handle on this model is made of premium-grade cork, plus, thanks to the Fuji K-frames guides, your line will stay put and tangle-free, letting you enjoy your fishing session to the fullest.

Specifications

ACTION: Moderate Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 16 oz
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 20lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon Fiber

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable
  • Made in the USA
  • Quality-made

CONS

  • Might not be suitable for women
  • A bit expensive

SHAKESPEARE Ugly Stik Elite Combo

BEST VALUE

SHAKESPEARE Ugly Stik Elite Premium cork handle best crankbait rods Combo

General Impression

Ugly Stik is one of the best-known names in fishing and there is a reason, they have been making quality affordable crankbait rods & reels for over 100 years. The Elite Combination is the latest is a long line of well-loved products from a trusted name and makes a great choice for any angler searching for a balance of strength and sensitivity.

The crankbait rod is manufactured from a graphite and fiberglass composite, although it contains 35% more graphite than previous designs. This increase in graphite improves sensitivity without making it so light that bigger catches will snap it at the same time as your dreams. Finishing the rods are signature “UglyTuff” stainless steel guide system and a premium cork handle. The included bait caster reel has a 2+1 ball bearing system, 12-pound star drag, and anti-reverse level. With a line weight or 10 to 14 lbs. you can tackle a wide range of bass, panfish and other smaller species of gamefish with confidence.

Specifications

ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium-Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 14 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite / Fiberglass Composite

PROS

  • Graphite/fiberglass composite offers a great balance of strength and sensitivity
  • The 6’06” length is long enough for accurate casts from shore and short enough to carry on the boat
  • Premium cork handle offers all day long comfort

CONS

  • The rod is of a higher quality than the reel
  • Baitcaster reel does have a bigger learning curve before it can be mastered

DOBYNS RODS 704CB Glass Champion Series

General Impression

Dobyns Rods are developed by veteran tournament angler Gary Dobyns. With decades of experience and over 100 major victories under his belt, he knows what makes a quality, fish-catching rod. The Champions series is the culmination of that knowledge.

The first thing you will notice is that this crankbait rod includes only the best components. Kevlar wrapped proprietary graphite blanks, Fuji reel seats, Kigan tangle free guide inserts, and aa-grade cork grips. Each feature is selected for performance as well as style. The result is a standard-setting rod in terms of sensitivity, balance, strength, and weight. The soft tip allows for easy detection of lure action as well as soft mouthing by weary bass. The cork handle provides superior control and comfort. Even on windy days, the Kigan guide inserts reduce tangles to a thing of the past. If at any time you are unhappy with the construction each rod is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Specifications

ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 8 – 17 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Kevlar wrapped graphite

PROS

  • Excellent performance on both the cast and retrieval
  • Each component is a top-notch and high performing
  • Superior sensitivity without sacrificing strength
  • AA-grade cork handles for all-day fishing comfort

CONS

  • Lure weights limited to ¼ to ¾ ounces
  • Not as well suited for deep-running crankbaits

KASTKING Speed Demon Pro

General Impression

Kastking may be a relative newcomer to the fishing tackle market but they have garnered a lot of fanfare and gained a few loyal followers along the way. So it should come as no surprise that one of the innovative offerings has made the list. Of course, what matters is whether the hype can be backed up. The simple answer is “Yes, it can.”

At first glance, the Speed Demon Pro looks great. Looks appear to be a top priority with a matte black finish and bright orange accents this is a rod that catches the eye. Even the grips include custom engraved designs. Closer inspection reveals that there is more than meets the eye. The components are all high end and selected to allow this rod to perform as well as it looks. Fuji Alconite line guides, custom Fuji reel seats, Fuji foregrips & custom Winn Grips all mounted on a proprietary carbon blank. The result is a well-balanced crankbait rod with large two-handed grips, allowing for impressive casting distance even with large baits. Once you have a fish on the line it has the backbone to wrestle it to the boat. It may seem like a lot of show, but in the end, it delivers in performance as well so why not look good doing it?

Specifications

ACTION: Moderate, Moderate-Fast, Fast
POWER: Medium-Light, Medium, Medium-Heavy & Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 4.60 to 6.95 oz
LINE WEIGHT: 6 – 80 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

PROS

  • Top-notch components including Fuji and Winn Grips
  • Extra-large reel locking nut for easier use when wet or wearing gloves
  • Well balanced guide placement reduced possibility of line tangles
  • Custom grips are as functional as they are stylish

CONS

  • Can be difficult to used bait keeper with larger hooks & lures
  • One-piece design makes larger models difficult to transport

DOBYNS RODS Fury Series Casting Rods

General Impression

The Fury is a tournament favorite among professional anglers; featuring a Portugal cork handle that ensures firmness of grip, anglers won’t have to worry about adjusting their grip. Also, using only high-quality materials ensures high performance, namely, the graphite blank, the Fuji reel seat, and the kevlar wrapping translate to quality, performance, and ease of use. It’s recommended for line weight from 10-17 lb and 1/4-3/4 oz of lure weight.
All in all, the Fury model is a crankbait rod that’s a fine choice for everyone that’s after a light yet stable and powerful fishing rod that’ll last for quite some time. Plus, the limited lifetime warranty is a nice addition.

Specifications

ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medum Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 17 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • Ambidextrous
  • Comfortable
  • Quality-made

CONS

  • Not for larger fish

ST. CROIX Premier Casting Rod

General Impression

Thanks to the mid-modulus graphite fiber that boasts an elevated strain rate compared to commonly used fibers, the Premier model comes in lightweight and enduring yet sensitive enough. Due to the handle being made of high-quality cork, anglers can rest assured their grip is firm yet comfortable enough.
The Premier model also comes with sturdy aluminum oxide guides that reduce friction level, so the line can be smoothly released. This 6-feet-6-inch, 2-piece crankbait rod model features a premium stainless steel reel seat with a silver hood and a Kigan hook holder.
Plus, the 5-year warranty and the fact that it’s US-made make this particular model the go-to choice for many anglers.

Specifications

ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 4.7 oz
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 20 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Graphite

PROS

  • Nice sensitivity
  • Quality-made
  • 5-year warranty
  • Made in the USA
  • Exceptionally strong
  • For men and women

CONS

  • Not for beginners

ABU GARCIA Vengeance Casting Rod

General Impression

Anyone familiar with Abu Garcia should not be surprised to find the Vengeance on this list. It has been the talk of the town since hitting the market and with good reason. The 30-ton graphite blank provides a lightweight, balanced design without sacrificing strength. The spiral carbon core offers a 22 percent increase in break strength over earlier models and an impressive 30 percent increase in tip strength. Stainless steel guides fitted with Zirconium inserts are as versatile as they are durable. Whether you prefer braid, monofilament or fluorocarbon this rod can handle it with ease. The micro click reel hood provides a solid connection between the crankbait rod & reel and the high-density EVA grip provides better comfort and control.

The Abu Garcia Vengeance offers a lightweight, balanced and durable rod perfect for a wide range of anglers. Whether you are casting from shore, dock or the deck of your boat this rod provides the perfect combinations of length, action, and power to bring the trophies home.

Specifications

ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium, Medium-Heavy & Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 30 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: 24 Ton Graphite

PROS

  • Variety of length option allows you to get the perfect rod for your fishing style
  • Hook keeper allows for easy transportation when rigged
  • EVA handles provide slip-proof handling even when wet
  • Includes a three-year limited warranty

CONS

  • One-piece design can be difficult to transport
  • EVA grips are comfortable but tend to break down faster than cork

ST. CROIX Avid Series

General Impression

St. Croix crankbait rod is one of the premier names when it comes to fishing rods and the Avid Series is no exception. Easily recognized as one of the top crankbait rods they are made from only the best components, each selected for performance as well as style. Plus, St. Croix utilizes the latest technology to set their rod designs apart from the rest.

One of the most interesting, and useful, features is the Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) technology that allows the user to fine-tune the flex of the rod. This allows you to take an already great crankbait rod and make it even better based on your specific situation and style. It also makes this rod a great choice for those looking to throw lipless crankbaits into heavy cover. Premium SCIII graphite blanks, aluminum oxide insert guides, Fuji reel seats, and select-grade full cork handle provide the strength, comfort, and dependability you seek.

Specifications

ACTION: Moderate, Fast & Extra-Fast
POWER: Medium, Medium-Heavy & Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 3.8 to 5.1 oz
LINE WEIGHT: 10 – 25 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: SCIII Graphite

PROS

  • IPC technology allows the rod to finely tuned for your specific style
  • Excels at popping and ripping lipless crankbait through cover
  • Poly curve action ensures fish will stay hooked
  • Specifically designed for crankbait fishing

CONS

  • Price, one of the more expensive models
  • Well perfect for crankbaits it is not a good all-purpose rod

EAGLE CLAW Skeet Reese Crankbait Rod

General Impression

Eagle Claw Wright & McGill, a leader in top quality fishing gear, teamed with award-winning angler Skeet Reese to create a rod that provides the day to day angler with tournament circuit performance. These crankbait rods are constructed from a lightweight, durable carbon blank. Zirconium line guides allow for use with a wide range of line types including braided. The patented double trigger handle provides superior casting distance and increased accuracy. The oversized fighting butt allows for better control when battling large fish in deep cover.

The wide range of available actions, line weights and lengths make this one of the most versatile crankbait rods on the market. Whether you need a shorter rod for casting from the boat deck or an extra-long model for hitting far away targets from shore there is a model that will fit your needs.

Specifications

ACTION: Moderate-Fast, Fast
POWER: Medium
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 8 – 30 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Carbon

PROS

  • Extremely durable design yet sensitive enough to feel subtle hits
  • The double trigger allows for longer distance and increased accuracy
  • Oversized fighting butt is a rare find on a freshwater rod in this class

CONS

  • A bit heavier than competitors
  • Only available in a very bright yellow color
  • Not the best for tossing lighter lures

HALO FISHING Crankin' Series II

General Impression

Due to it being both bendy and soft-tipped, you can be in charge of controlling the big fish, without breaking or damaging the crankbait rod, withstanding from 8-20 lbs of line weight.
High-quality-made and durable, the stainless steel line guides are carefully placed along the rod to ensure maximum casting precision without sacrificing the power and sturdiness of the rod while using a braided line.
The nicely-made crankbait rod seat provides a comfy and suitable base for the real, with no gaps between your hand and the reel, while the EVA-foam handle makes sure your hand is comfortable enough to hold the rod.

Specifications

ACTION: Medium
POWER: Medum Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: N/A
LINE WEIGHT: 8 – 20 lbs
PRIMARY MATERIAL: Blend

PROS

  • Light
  • Comfortable
  • Quality made
  • Ambidextrous

CONS

  • Might not be suited for beginners

BEST CRANKBAIT RODS
Buyer's Guide

As with almost any aspect of fishing having the correct gear can make the difference between filling the creel and being empty-handed at the end of the day. While it is possible to toss crankbaits with a string tied to a broom handle it is not the most productive means of catching fish. Having a dedicated rod specifically designed for throwing crankbaits is always the preferred route. However, if you are looking for a general-purpose rod that will get the job done it is important to keep in mind the features crankbait rods possess.

Action

Action refers to where the rod will start to bend. A slow action rod will bend at or near the base. A fast action rod will bend near the tip. For a crankbait rod, you want to select an action that is moderate or moderate fast. If the action is too slow it will not handle deep diving baits as well. Likewise, if the action is too fast it will reduce casting distance and limit your ability to properly set heavy treble hooks.

Power

Power refers to how much force is required to bend the rod and is relative to the line weight and lure weight used. Each of these limitations is stamped on the blank and can be expressed in either the desired range or an upper limit. For crankbaits, you need a medium to heavy power. A lighter power is likely to cause to much flex or even breakage when casting larger lures.

Line Rating

Many anglers tend to prefer lighter line as it casts better and is less likely to be detected by fish. However, when using a crankbait, it is important to remember these lures tend to weight more and are fished differently. A deep-diving crankbait will add increased pressure on the line when retrieved. Add think cover or structure and lighter lines are likely to break before a fish is even hooked. Look for a rod that allows for slightly higher line weight. You can counter this to come degree by selecting a rod that is suitable for use with thinner braided line.

Casting or spinning reel?

Most, if not all, crankbait rods are designed for use with a baitcasting reel. This is not to say you can not effectively throw crankbaits with a spinning outfit but is not the best equipment for the task. Baitcasting rods usually have lower profile guides with wider openings, features that help with both the casting and retrieval of crankbaits.

BEST CRANKBAIT RODS
FAQs

1. What is a crankbait rod?

Crankbait rods are specifically designed to provide the features necessary to work best when paired with crankbaits. The action, power, line weight, and length are all combined to allow the crankbait to perform at its best while increasing your chances of hooking & landing the fish targeted.

2. Why choose a crankbait rod?

It’s about having the right gear for the task at hand. Consider the analogy of a wrench verse a pair of plyers. While the plyers can loosen the same bolt, the wrench will do so more efficiently.

3. How do I choose a crankbait rod?

The ideal crankbait rod will offer a moderate to moderate fast action, medium to heavy power and ability to handle larger line weights. Due to the larger line weight, the ability to use braided line is an advantage. Most will be designed for use with a bait caster reel.

4. What is the best choice for a crankbait rod?

LEW’S Tournament Performance TP-1 is our Top Pick. It offers the best combination of performance, construction, and price. Although there are more expensive options available few will outperform the TP-1 when it comes to day to day angling. Unless you are fishing the tournament circuit the extra cost is unlikely to gain you a noticeable advantage.

5. What is the best crankbait rod for under $100?

Again, the Lew’s Tournament Performance TP-1 is out Top Pick and often available for under $100. A close second is the Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Rod. The latter is made by a leader in the fishing tackle world and provides a top-quality rod designed for crankbaits without breaking the bank.

6. What is the best crankbait rod for bass?

The best crankbait rod for bass is without a doubt the St. Croix Avid. These rods are specifically designed for crankbaits by a manufacturer who made a name for itself producing specialty rods.

7. What is the best crankbait rod & reel combo?

The Ugly Stik Elite Combo tops our list of crankbaits rod & reel combos. Not only it is an excellent rod designed with all the features need to get the most out of your crankbaits it is both time tested and economical.

best crankbait rods

REACH OUT

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!

David Stefanoski

David Stefanoski is an avid outdoorsman who loves to explore the deepest, most exciting crevices of nature and then write about them. From the maximum depth that a scuba suit can go, to the maximum heights that his legs will take him, David enjoys the outdoors in its warmest, sunniest days on the prairie, to the iciest, dampest little spots in Eastern Europe. After 15 years of trudging, his favorite outdoorsman activity is still chopping wood due to his large body size. He says it's like splitting toothpicks!

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