BEST SPINNING RODS 2023

Ugly Stik is certainly one of the best spinning rod brands, which explains why its Elite Spinning rod may be the best spinning rod under $50.

The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning follows in the footsteps of its brethren, as the rod possesses the power of a Greek God. Its compound blank, which is created with a graphite interior, and fiberglass exterior, doubles as both sensitive and durable. The unique combo allows anglers to feel gentle nibbles, while also giving them the chance to pull absolute monsters out of the water.

Though it is not adorned with fancy features like many of the other modern rods, the Elite Spinning is a well-rounded piece, and perhaps the best medium-heavy spinning rod for inshore fishing. Its stainless steel eyes, comfortable handle, and clear tip design allow for anglers to make the most of any fishing situation.

LENGTH: 4’6, 5’, 6’, 6’6, 7’, 7’6
ACTION: Moderate, moderate-fast, fast
POWER: Ultra-light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 6.2 oz

Daiwa’s Back Bay Series is crafted as inshore spinning and casting rods, best to be used at the countless back bays of the East Coast. Fashioned out of rather light and sensitive, yet super-fast blanks with a lot of backbone, Daiwa’s Back Bay rod also features FAZ ring guides for a tangle-free fishing experience. The one-piece cork handle vouches for a firm grip, easily movable in any direction.
Coming with a limited 5-year warranty, it’s a neat pick for both pros and newbies, men or women.

LENGTH: 7’6”
ACTION: Extra Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 8 oz

St Croix is in the business of making excellent quality fishing rods. And it does just that with the Triumph series spinning rods.

The Triumph is a SCII graphite rod that is magnificently lightweight and sensitive. Like other models from St Croix, the rod is reinforced with two applications of Flex-Coat to provide extra durability and weather resistance. As a result, it could be the best 2 piece fishing rod for combating the elements.

Additionally, the Triumph is packed with other high-quality features such as aluminum oxide guides, a Fuji reel seat, and a 5 year warranty in case the piece incurs any damage.

LENGTH: 5’, 5’6, 6’, 6’6, 7’, 7’6
ACTION: Moderate, fast
POWER: Ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 2.1-5.8 oz

Let the truth be told with the Abu Garcia Veritas.

The Veritas, which is one of Abu Garcia’s leading models, possesses several admirable qualities that qualify it as a potential contender for the best 7ft spinning rod.

Most noticeable is the model’s SubLayer Armor technology, which is designed to provide incredible strength and toughness. Such a material allows the rod to take an absolute beating, without sustaining any noticeable damage. The second most noticeable trait is the zirconium guide inserts, which allow for the line to pass through without any friction.

Finally the rod is finished off with a low profile hook keeper to attach bait to. Due to its superior sensitivity and solid feel, the tool could perhaps be the best two piece spinning rod.

LENGTH: 6’3, 6’6, 6’9, 7’
ACTION: Moderate, fast
POWER: Medium-light, medium, medium-heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 4.7 oz

KastKing pulls no punches with any of its products, never abandoning high quality and durability. The Perigree II is another great in its line of superior products.

The Perigree II is an incredibly balanced carbon matrix rod that may even be the best two-piece spinning rod on this list. The model is created by precision engineering which weaves the fibers at four different angles to provide the maximum amount of durability and control. As such, the rod is extremely reactive, but also impressively durable.

Due to it’s standard construction, the Perigree is an ideal piece for most types of freshwater fishing. It can easily catch bass, salmon, catfish, pike, and many others. Many sport anglers may even claim that it’s the best freshwater spinning rod for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

LENGTH: 4’6, 5’, 5’6, 6’, 6’6, 6’7, 7’, 7’1, 7’6
ACTION: Moderate-fast, fast
POWER: Ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy, heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 4.5 oz

The Fenwick Eagle is a rod built on tradition and history, which truly represents 60 years of relentless testing and improvement.

From a purely aesthetic perspective, the Eagle is a beautiful rod to look at. Its finely polished golden exterior catches the eye from a mile away, while its hardened b2 burled cork appears every bit as hardy as it is.

The cork, which is fashioned from a specialized compound, is significantly harder than its raw form, giving it extended durability and control. The hardened exterior ensures that the handle can’t be cracked or chipped. Those features help contribute to the Eagle’s superior performance, as it has a relatively fast action for snagging trophy fish. Countless other spinning rod reviews also attest to the Eagle’s greatness, as the piece really does serve as the ideal spinning rod.

LENGTH: 5’6, 6’, 6’6, 7’, 7’6, 8’
ACTION: Moderate, moderate-fast, fast
POWER: Ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 3.88 oz

The St Croix Mojo is a spinning rod that easily competes for the title of the best 2 piece spinning rod.

What makes the Mojo interesting compared to other similar makes is that all models are fairly long. The shortest length is 6’8, which is significantly longer than many of the other popular models on the market. Nevertheless, the rod is extremely sensitive and powerful, as it is fashioned from high-quality SCIII graphite.

To further increase the piece’s durability, it is supplemented with two layers of Flex-Coat to ensure that it can withstand the elements. Those hunting for big fish can easily rely on the medium heavy model, which offers a unique blend of power and sensitivity.

LENGTH: 6’8, 6’10, 7’1, 7’3, 7’6, 9’6
ACTION: Moderate, fast, extra-fast
POWER: Medium-light, medium, medium-heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 3.6-4.8 oz

Designed as a saltwater rod, it’s particularly used for inshore fishing off the coast. Stripers, bluefish, porgy, black sea bass, tautog, redfish, and snook are some of the fish this baby can reel in for you. Boasting 30-ton graphite, carbon-packed blanks, the rod is layered with carbon thread adding an extra oomph of strength and accuracy. The Fuji guides with alconite inserts ensure a carefree fishing session, while the guide rings help the fishing line to stay in place and knot-free.

LENGTH: 7′
ACTION: Fast
POWER: Medium
ROD WEIGHT: 5.6 oz

Boasting a lightweight design of the 24-ton carbon-packed blank will ensure a nice sensitivity level, letting you feel the nibbles without disturbing the process.
Sensitive yet flexible and sturdy, the Epixor can reel in bigger fish, thanks to the 12-15 lbs line, and the 3/8 – 1 oz lure weight.
Detailed with Fuji stainless steel guides with inserts made of aluminum oxide, this spinning rod will deliver smooth navigation, leaving behind knots and scrapes. Epixor’s long-lasting fore and rear cork grips make for a comfortable grip to let you enjoy your fishing adventure longer.

LENGTH: 7′
ACTION: Moderate Fast
POWER: Medium Heavy
ROD WEIGHT: 5.6 oz

What is a spinning rod?

A spinning rod is a variant of the traditional fishing pole that is equipped with a rotating reel and guides aligned along the underside of a rod blank.

The anatomy of a spinning rod can be broken down into four main sections. The blank, handle, reel seat, and guides.

The blank of a spinning rod is the main graphite, composite, or fiberglass piece which other features are mounted on. The blank material often determines the rod’s flexibility, responsiveness, and sensitivity.

Once the blank is selected, it is then supplemented with a handle, which is made of either cork or hardened foam. In between the handle is where the reel seat lies, which is the place holder and key element for spinning reels.

Finally the rod is finished with a set of guides, which hold the line once it is cast. All four elements work in tandem to create a rod which can both cast, retrieve, and reel in fish.

Due to their simplicity and ease of use, spinning rods are the most common on the market. Anglers of all ages can easily learn the sport with any of the top rated spinning rods mentioned above.

Target species

The target species can often be a determining factor to what model of spinning rod to purchase.

The size and habits of a species are often the defining factors when choosing appropriate gear. Size, which is the more obvious factor, relates directly to the amount of power needed behind a rod. Smaller species, such as crappie, bluegill, and perch can easily be wrestled in with a smaller rod, that can be as short as 5’.

Larger species, such as catfish, trout, salmon, pike, and largemouth bass often require a heavier set of equipment. Good spinning rods that range from 6-8’ are more appropriate for such species, as they provide more leverage to fight fish that are stronger and heavier. Such species may even require a heavy action spinning rod, which can help differentiate the difference between being stuck on the lake bed or hooked to a fish.

Habits of a fish can also play a critical role in which piece to choose. Those searching for fish that reside in shallow areas can rely on a medium action spinning rod, which provides a unique mix of sensitivity and power.

In contrast, those seeking species that reside in deep water, such as catfish, are better off with a slow action rod that absorbs the hit, and bends in a parabolic shape when the fish rolls in the water.

Environment

When choosing from the top spinning rods, an angler must take into consideration what kind of environment they will be fishing in.

On a grand scale, the environment can be broken down into saltwater and freshwater. However, that macro level of analysis is just the first factor when choosing an appropriate piece.

The second factor to consider is what the local vegetation and shrubery is like. If a body of water is littered with shrubs, mangroves, and trees, then it can be difficult to maneuver even a 1 piece spinning rod. As a result, anglers must search for a rod that is both short enough, and powerful enough, to aid them in their quest for the local species.

Conversely, those searching for fish in relatively open bodies of water have the freedom to choose larger and more powerful pieces. Those fishing in open reservoirs can rely on lengths around 6-8’, as they are likely the best spinning fishing rods for such an environment.

Environments that require anglers to cast great distances, such as docks or jetties, also require a certain type of rod. In such situations, the best two piece fishing rods seem to get the job done right, as they provide enough casting distance, as well as power to reel in big fish.

Power and action

Power and action are crucial points to consider when angling.

At a basic level, power is nothing more than the overall lifting strength of a rod. Thus, big fish need a heavier power, whereas smaller fish require a lighter power.

Action is somewhat related to power, though it is a separate feature in its own way. Action can be defined in the simplest terms as where the rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend in the top third of the blank, whereas slow action rods bend as far down as the handle. The action also refers to the speed at which the material snaps back to its original position once pressure is removed.

Fish that require a hard hook set, such as largemouth bass, require a moderate to fast action. Species such as catfish, which have soft mouths and often make winding runs, are better fought with a slow action rod.

For a deeper explanation of each factor, or to better understand each, head over to the Best Casting Rods of 2023.

How to clean your spinning rod?

It is imperative to clean a fishing rod after a day on the water. Those who fail to do so, often end up with pieces that rapidly diminish in quality.

The first step to cleaning a piece, is washing it with warm freshwater. This can either be done with a spray, or a wet cloth. This removes the dirt and debris which catches on the outside of the rod.

If a proper wipe down doesn’t remove all of the exterior contents, then a soft brush may be used to remove the rest. Take caution while brushing though, as too much applied force can potentially damage the piece.

After a rod dries, wax can be applied to the joints to ensure that the materials don’t grind against one another. The wax, or oil, can also help protect the pieces from drying out too much and losing their natural qualities.

How to store your spinning rod?

Storing a spinning rod properly can extend its lifeline by years, or even decades. If not done appropriately, even the best spinning rod can be destroyed in a matter of months.

Like prior mentioned, the first step is cleaning a rod. After that, handlers can prepare it for storage.

Though it is not always mandatory, many anglers remove the reel and line before storage. However, those who wish to keep the reel on can do so, as long as the line is removed.

The next key step is to remove the line from the guides, and either wrap it around the reel, or cut it off entirely. This prevents the rod from bending while being stored, and taking on an unnatural shape or curve.

The final step is to store the rod in an area which is protected from the elements. Garages and sheds are often suitable, but an indoor location is even better. If the piece can be stored vertically or horizontally, it can maintain its natural shape and features.

1. What’s the difference between a casting rod and spinning rod?

Though there are other variants, the two main types of rods are casting and spinning.

A traditional spinning rod mounts both the reel and guides on the underside of the blank. The reel works in a spinning action, gradually winding the line around a spool. Once the line is cast, it flows through the guides on the underside of the rod.

Casting rods on the other hand, mount the reel and guide directly atop the rod blank. Yet unlike a spinning rod, a casting rod is equipped with a baitcasting reel. Such a reel has a higher gear ratio, and winds the line along a frictionless wheel rather than a spool.

In terms of functionality, baitcasters are better for topwater and big fish, while spinning rods are better for novice anglers and those looking to finesse bait.

2. What is the best spinning rod?

The best spinning rod currently available is the KastKing Resolute.

The Resolute does far more than just meet the expectations of seasoned anglers. Its innovative design consists of IM7 graphite, microwave air guides, and a slip-resistant fighting butt. The air guides in particular grab the attention of many, as the guide system funnels air towards the tip of the rod. As a result the line is transferred far quicker with much less friction.

Yet in terms of performance, the Resolute is also a champ. The model allows anglers to easily finesse bait through shrubbery, and target fish in difficult to reach areas. For such reasons, the piece will surely appear on more than one best spinning rods of 2023 review.

3. What is the best length for a spinning rod?

Rod length can be a somewhat tricky topic for those looking to select a new piece. There is no one best length, but rather a variety of lengths that are suitable for different purposes.

Anglers that fish for species which hang out in densely vegetated areas often require very accurate casts. Even just a couple feet away from the target destination can end up in a total mess, as catching line in shrubs is no simple issue to resolve. As such, anglers are better off with shorter rods that provide more accuracy. A 5’ blank is a great length for a spinner rod that requires pinpoint accuracy.

Longer rods, such as those which are 8’, are ideal for casting bait great distances and fighting larger fish. A longer rod additionally provides more leverage and power, making it far easier to reel in big catches.

However, those looking for a comfortable balance are best off with a 6 or 7’ fishing rod. The medium sizes provide suitable blends of power and casting accuracy, two factors that are critical in most fishing scenarios.

4. Who makes the best saltwater spinning rod blanks?

The best saltwater spinning rod blanks are certainly made by Ugly Stik.

Ugly Stik, a spin-off of Shakespeare, creates blanks for a variety of fishing styles, all with one common purpose – durability. The ultra-high-quality blanks contain a unique mix of materials to provide incredible resilience, while also offering unrivaled sensitivity. The inner layer of the rod contains a thin piece of graphite, while the outer layer is fashioned with fiberglass.

Anglers wielding any variant of an Ugly Stik can detect even the most minor nibbles, as the energy flows from the line directly into the blank. Nevertheless, the delicate feel of the rod doesn’t sacrifice durability, as the saltwater spinning rods can weather sand, salt, brute force and much more.

5. How do I calculate the action of the rod?

The action of a rod is determined by where the rod bends when pressure is applied to the end.

When pressure is applied to the final guide on a rod, the blank will bend at the designed flex point. The point at where a rod bends is the ‘action point’. However, in order to group rods with similar bending points together, the process is measured by a speed scale from extra-slow to extra-fast.

A rod with a fast action bends in the top third of the piece. Fast action rods snap back into place rather quickly, which is a handy aspect for those looking to rapidly set the hook.

Moderate action rods, on the other hand, bend near the midpoint of the rod. As such, they are slightly less sensitive, but more flexible. As a result, anglers can take full advantage of the stored energy in the rod, and toss bait great distances. Many anglers swear that moderate action blanks are the best spinning rods due to their balanced features.

Then there is slow action rods, an extremely flexible variant which bends near the rod handle. Slow action rods are great when fighting small panfish or species with soft mouths that require a lighter hook set.

6. What length of grip do I need?

Though it is a somewhat minor feature, the grip length on a rod can play a critical role when angling.

Anglers that wish for more mobility are best off with a grip length that is less than 6”. A short grip length is the most ideal for maneuvering a rod around, especially if an angler is doing a lot of casting and retrieving. Yet, a short grip length sacrifices leverage, putting more responsibility on the wrist of an angler. Ideally, a grip should rest in the middle of an angler’s forearm, rather than being too close to the wrist or elbow.

Those wishing for slightly less mobility, but more leverage, are better off with a grip that falls into the range of 6-12”. The moderate grip length grants more power to anglers that wish to pull against larger and heavier fish.

Finally, those looking to have serious fighting power and leverage are best with a rod that has a grip length greater than 12”. Though such a length is ideal for leverage, it can become cumbersome and somewhat awkward to deal with.

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!