If you’re new to the world of bass fishing then you may have come to realize that it can be overwhelming when it comes to selecting and purchasing your gear. There are hundreds of different rods and reels out there including rod and reel combos, so how would you know what to choose?
That’s where we’re going to step in and help you out. We’ve got a list of rods below that will help get you out on the freshwater and fishing in no time.
We’re going to go in-depth talking about them and what they do best.
On top of that, we’re also going to cover a little bit about bass fishing and the different features of rods that you can find. So, check out the article below to see which one is going to be the best rod for you and your style of fishing!
Table Of Contents
What Is A Bass Rod?
Bass rods are made up of several different parts. However, the main components are the butt, blank, reel seat, and tip.
Some rods will come in one piece while others could be able to be broken down into two or even three pieces.
The butt of the rod is located on the bottom. This is going to allow you to have any leverage you might need in order to land any big fish.
If you have a large bass at the end of your line this is where your hand will be holding so you won’t lose the fish.
The seat of the rod is where you’re going to place the reel. On here are two corkscrews that allow you to secure the reel to the rod.
This way you can remove the reel for cleaning or replacement without having to throw the rod away.
The blank is the rest of the rod. These could be made of fiberglass, graphite, or even a combination of the two.
The blank is also where the guides of the rod are. These contain the line and allow for accurate and far casting distance and retrieval of your lure or fish.
The tip is the very end of the rod. These are usually easily removed since this is the part that most often breaks.
Most companies allow cheap or even free replacements of the tip. This all depends on the company as well as the warranty on the rod.
How To Choose The Best Bass Rod For You
Since we’ve gone over the main components of what a bass rod is, let’s talk more about some of the best features of a bass rod. The following information will help you determine which rod is going to be the best one for you.
Durability
Graphite rods and fiberglass rods are the two many materials used to make bass rods. You’ll find that fiberglass is very flexible but it is much heavier than graphite.
This means that you’ll sacrifice some durability as well as sensitivity if you use fiberglass.
That being said, fiberglass will also be cheaper. So, if you’re just starting out then picking a fiberglass rod wouldn’t be such a bad decision.
Graphite is the rod that most anglers are going to want. It is more durable and also more sensitive.
Meaning you can pick up on any subtle bite that may occur. Don’t feel pressured to buy a more expensive rod when just starting out though.
Take your time and then make the decision when the tie is right.
Rod Action
The action of your rod refers to where the rod will start to bend when put under pressure. Meaning a fast action rod will bend closer to the tip.
Making it ideal for going after smaller fish since it is so sensitive, but it won’t be great for chasing larger fish. These come in all different levels.
Extra fast all the way down to extra slow.
Rod Power
The power of the rod refers to how much pressure is needed to make the rod bend. These range from ultra-light to ultra-heavy.
Most times in bass fishing you’ll be using something in the medium power range. You’ll also find hybrids such as medium-heavy.
Once you get into more special fishing then you could be using a heavy power or even a light action.
Brand Names
When choosing your rod it will pay off if you choose a brand name over a generic model. This is especially true if you plan on getting a lot of use out of your rod or if you plan on keeping it for a long period of time.
Most of these brand names will have an eva handle or a split grip handle which is a cork grip as well. These are very comfortable.
Don’t feel like you have to spend hundreds of dollars on a brand name, but if you see a solid rod that’s $40 and a generic rod for $20, then go ahead and get the name brand one. Chances are it will last you longer.
What Rod’s Do I Need For Bass Fishing?
Now that we’ve gone over a few different features, let’s talk about what rods you need in order to get into bass fishing. Below, we’re going to cover spinning and baitcaster rods. As well as the differences between them.
Spinning
The most popular rod in bass fishing has to be the spinning rod. This is because it is easier to use a spinning reel than a baitcasting reel.
Beginners can use these really easily and you’ll be able to throw just about any lures, or live bait that you can think of. Spinnerbaits, or other light lures are best. The lighter lures work best on spinning rods.
These are great at hooksets as well and versatile.
Casting
These baitcasting rods need to be used with a baitcasting reel. Typically you’ll be throwing only lures with this such as crankbaits, heavy jigs, and topwater.
This type of setup won’t work with lighter weights or finesse so you need to ensure your bait is heavy enough or you won’t be casting very far.
What Size Rod Should You Use?
It all depends on what type of fishing you plan on doing. Typically, a shorter rod is going to be better when fishing in narrow conditions or for making short casts.
It also is much easier to pack in and out. So, if you’re fishing from a kayak then a five and half foot rod might be ideal.
When fishing in deeper water or when you need a long cast, then you should be looking for a longer rod. You can cover more water with these and when you’re on a large bass boat this could make the difference between a good and bad day of fishing.
Best Bass Fishing Rod Reviews
Now that we’ve gone over what a bass fishing rod is, let’s talk about the different products. Below, we have five different rods.
Each of them is going to have its own pros and cons so think about what you need then apply that to the list below.
1. KastKing Perigree II
These rods come in both a spinning and casting rod. Making it perfect for bass anglers who want to have both rods in their boat so that they can be prepared for any type of fishing situation that may come up during the day.
The carbon fiber blanks are the latest and greatest in rod technology. They have incredible strength, power, as well as casting accuracy.
You’ll also find that this rod comes in 24 different sizes. Allowing you to pick the perfect size for you. The Fuji O ring guides are perfect for containing your monofilament or fluorocarbon line as it shoots off the spool.
These are high-quality guides, so you don’t have to worry about your heavier line wearing down over time. The rod blanks are also very light so you can cast all day without wearing out your arm.
For the value, these might be the best rods out there. They’re going to hold up for years to come and currently are some of the best-priced rods on the market.
If you don’t want to drop three figures on a rod then this is the way to go.
Buy The KastKing Perigree II On Amazon
2. Shimano Expride
The Hi-Power X construction uses diagonally wrapped tape. This forms an X on the rod blanks outer layer.
Where the rod is wrapped is tuned to target different species. This allows Shimano to move wraps around depending on what type of fish you plan on chasing.
This rod also comes in multiple sizes and actions. Allowing you to fully customize this rod to every need that you could have.
While the price is higher than some other rods on this list you will not be disappointed in this purchase.
Keep in mind that this is a one-piece rod. So, when traveling you need to ensure that a 5’-7’ 6” rod will able to fit somewhere.
Also, make sure you have a one-piece case large enough to fit this rod. This will help protect the tips as well as the guides during travel.
Buy The Shimano Expride On Amazon
3. KastKing Speed Demon
These are great carbon blanks and also come with resin technology. This helps to reduce the weight of the rod and will also increase the lifting and breaking strength of the rod itself.
Meaning you will have fewer rod breaks while using it.
The Fuji guides and casting reel seat ensures that the reel will stick to the rod when fishing and the lines will never fray while in use. This is unlike some of the more inferior guides and reel seats out there.
There are fifteen different lengths and actions. Each rod is designed to handle a certain style of fishing so don’t feel like you need to settle on something because it might be ok for your favorite style of bass fishing.
These are a tried and true rod. Use these a few times over the summer, or break them out on the tournament trail.
The Speed Demon is going to be your workhorse and will help you catch fish year-round.
Buy The KastKing Speed Demon On Amazon
4. St. Croix Mojo Bass Rod
One of the best-known names in the world of bass fishing rods. St. Croix has been producing great rods for a while now and the Mojo is no different.
Many weekend warriors and experienced anglers look to Mojo when fishing for big bass.
The SCIII graphite blank construction produces a strong, durable, corrosion-resistant and lightweight rod. Perfect for anglers who have high expectations for their gear while also ensuring that the rod is a good value too.
The integrated poly curve technology eliminates all of the transitional points in the rod. This allows for smoother casting actions, increased strength as well greater sensitivity for detecting those light bites.
Buy The St. Croix Mojo Bass Rod On Amazon
5. PLUSSINO Elite Hunter Rod
This is a great rod if you’re looking to get started in bass fishing. The price point is low enough that you don’t have to fret about only using it a few times a year.
However, the rod is nice enough that it could get you through a couple of good seasons before you need to upgrade.
Each rod is made of carbon blanks. This gives each casting and spinning rod incredible performance, sensitivity, as well as power.
The stainless steel guides also help for a smooth cast that will help prevent fishing line fraying.
The double-locking reel seat will help keep your reel locked into place when fighting big fish. The locking mechanism will also help keep it in place when traveling or when on a bumpy boat ride out to your spot.
Buy The PLUSSINO Elite Hunter Rod On Amazon
Conclusion
After going over all of the information above you hopefully now have a better understanding of what a bass rod is and how you should choose the best one for you. There are many different types and you should choose one that meets your fishing needs.
Feel free to check out these models and makes as well. Ugly Stik, Abu Garcia, Shakespeare, G loomis, or the Ugly Stik gx2. These can all be found on Amazon.
Use this as a guide to help find the best rod for you. There are many different ones out there so don’t be afraid to ask questions or take your time when picking on out.