Best Fishing Rods in 2021

Whether you are looking for your very first fishing rod or want to buy a new one, we're sure that our list holds a lot of options. A lot of fishing rods and reels can last a lifetime, handle a wider variety of fish, and can take a beating. That is why we've handpicked these items to make sure we have something for everyone.

Read along to check out these affordable fishing rods, built by anglers for aspiring and experienced anglers. We also created a buying guide to make sure you have all the information you need to choose the right one for you.

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Best all-around fishing rod

1. Ugly Stik Elite

Rod Lengths: 4'6” to 7'6”

Rod Material: Composite (35% more Graphite)

Rod Power: Ultra-Light to Medium-Heavy

The Ugly Stik Elite is a spinning fishing rod with excellent strength and durability.

What we like about the Ugly Stik Elite is that it is built to last and is available in lots of sizes that suit a variety of fishing styles and situations. It features 35 % more graphite, meaning it is lighter but still retains its strength. It also has premium cork handles or grip for maximum control and comfort, along with Ugly Tuff guides for enhanced durability. This rod has a solid fiberglass clear tip which is extremely durable and sensitive, making it so appreciated by anglers. It can be used with all types of lines due to its strong components, and will surely hold up to many long fishing battles. It is flexible, feels sensitive, and can catch both little and large fish. It is user-friendly and quite easy to move around. Along with its cork handle are new and enhanced stainless steel guides, which will help you achieve the ideal equilibrium. Furthermore, the Ugly Stik Elite has a clear tip design to improve efficiency in reaction time. It can be used in saltwater and freshwater. The Ugly Stik Elite's actions are fast, meaning they will recover fast and will not bend at the lower part. Although, it is very sensitive, even to the lightest bites.

What we do not like about the Ugly Stik Elite is that it has some flexibility issues and can snap when used roughly. But overall, you will have no problem catching moderately large fish with it. It has a strong tip and it is very versatile, which can accommodate anybody's style and will suit both experienced anglers and beginners. It is also a fantastic choice for big-game fishing. Finally, it is built to last with proper care and maintenance, and it comes at a friendly price point.

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Best baitcaster combo

2. Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcast

Rod Lengths: 6'6” to 7'

Rod Material: Graphite

Rod Power: Medium to Medium-Heavy

The Abu Garcia Black Max is the best baitcasting rod and reel combo, and will offer excellent responsiveness and feel.

What we like about the Abu Garcia Black Max is that because it is a combination of a rod and reel, you do not have to worry about reel compatibility. This combo is made of graphite, which is super lightweight so you can cast all day without your arms getting tired or your shoulders getting sore. It has an angled handle and drag system to provide you with a comfortable feel. Plus, it features stainless steel bearings and guides to ensure that it will last for years. The Black Max is a very good bass fishing baitcaster with a very durable setup that will last for a very long time with proper care. It is easy and simple to use, handles really well, and is versatile for use with crankbaits, for flipping, or pitching. Furthermore, the reel features four stainless steel ball bearings and a roller bearing for better casts, and a machined aluminum spool to cut down weight. It also uses a disk drag system to help with pulling. Its handle is very ergonomic and slightly bent, thus reducing strain on your wrist. Finally, it has a compact and very effective design that works well for many anglers.

What we do not like about the Abu Garcia Black Max baitcaster combo is that it only comes in a 6.4:1 gear ratio, and its reel is not as smooth as high-end reels. All in all, this is a baitcasting combo recommended by professionals. It is not heavy nor awkward to hold. Besides, it is versatile, can handle almost anything, is easy to use, and affordable.

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Best spinning rod

3. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Fishing Rod

Rod Lengths: 4'8” to 9'

Rod Material: Composite

Rod Power: Ultra-Light to Medium-Heavy

The Ugly Stix GX2 is one of the best spinning fishing rods and is full of value and recent upgrades.

What we like about the Ugly Stix GX2 is that it comes with a wide range of configurations. Its recent upgrades include redesigned guides into a single piece stamped stainless steel for durability and a balance point shift to the butt-end of the rod. Plus, it is light and easy to cast. The GX2 features a grip with EVA material, which means it is even comfortable after hours of castings and retrievals. This dual EVA grip works well in wet conditions and is easy to clean. Another upgrade on the GX2 is the matte black finish and a classic diamond winding pattern to help you easily identify the rod in a huge stack. The rod also features UglyTech technology, which is a combination of fiberglass and high-modulus graphite for more strength and durability. It is also very versatile and works with braided, carbon, and monofilament files since the guides suit everyone. Additionally, it is very sensitive due to its clear tip, which means it is possible to feel even the lightest strike. The rod is also designed not to interfere with the casting distance. It comes in a 1-piece or 2-piece blank that will suit your needs. Plus, it has massive lifting power that can handle fish up to 100 lbs. Finally, it is a medium-action rod with a strong backbone, which can be used for bass fishing, cranking, jigging, and even for topwater.

What we do not like about the Ugly Stix GX2 is that its grip consists of thick foam, which may reduce sensitivity and provoke some issues may when used with braided lines. But overall, this rod's sensitivity remains pretty good, and it is very durable, lightweight, and affordable.

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Best beginner fishing rod

4. PENN Battle II

Rod Lengths: 6'5” to 10'

Rod Material: Composite

Rod Power: Medium-Light to Heavy

The Penn Battle II is one of the best fishing rods for beginners as it offers quality build and durability.

What we like about the Penn Battle II is that it comes with a carbon fiber HT-100 drag system that will give you power. At the same time, it will give you a smooth intake, larger drags, and a longer casting range, thus making it ideal for heavy loads. It features a full metal body, rotor, and side plate for added durability. Its spinning reel has five sealed, stainless steel ball bearings, and an instant anti-reverse bearing to allow you to pull in fish without experiencing any pullback. A nice feature of the Penn Battle II, especially for beginners, is the line capacity markings on the reel, which will allow you to know exactly how much of the line is off the spool. The Battle II also has an aesthetically pleasing look. Plus, its drag provides a lot of range so you can change it to the way you prefer. Besides, the reel can hold many fishing lines and takes a lot of diameters. It is smooth at retrieval and very easy to cast, which makes it a good fishing rod and reel for beginners.

What we do not like about the Penn Battle II combo is that it is a bit heavy, and is not the most high-end. But, it is tough and holds up well, especially in saltwater. Overall, the durability, strength, and long-lasting properties of the fiberglass, along with the extremely sensitive graphite make it one of the best combinations of rod materials.

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Best fishing rod for kids

5. PLUSINNO Kids Fishing Pole

Rod Lengths: 3.94' to 4.92'

Rod Material: FRP, ABS, Soft Rubber

Rod Power: N/A

The PLUSINNO Kids Fishing Pole is the best starter kit for aspiring young anglers.

What we like about the PLUSINNO Kids Fishing Pole is that it has everything you need to introduce this sport to your little one. The fishing rod is telescopic, is 3.94 feet long, and only weighs 2.2 ounces. It folds down into a very compact 14.5-inch package and comes with a bag, which is good for storage and transport. This PLUSINNO combo comes with a spincast reel that you can mount for either right- or left-hand use. This reel has a simple design but is ideally suited to teaching kids how to cast. It is also less complicated than a baitcaster, and less susceptible to line twists and tangles than a traditional open-faced spinning reel. It gives an aspiring young angler the right balance of power and speed. This whole kit consists of a fishing line and tackle, and includes a selection of crankbaits, float bobbers, jig heads, soft lures, swivels, and sinkers that are suited to many various fishing conditions.

What we do not like about the PLUSINNO Kids Fishing Pole is that its coil is not of the best quality. But all in all, it casts surprisingly well, is lightweight, works just like a regular adult fishing rod, and is perfect for kids to learn and get started with the sport.

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Best saltwater fishing rod

6. Penn Squall Lever Drag Combo

Rod Lengths:  6' to 7'

Rod Material: Graphite

Rod Power: Medium to Heavy

The Penn Squall Lever Drag Combo is the best rod and reel combo for saltwater angling.

What we like about the Penn Squall Lever Drag is that it can be used to catch a variety of species thanks to its two lengths and two power ratings. It is also ideal for inshore and offshore angling. This rod is made of a lightweight graphite frame and durable sideplates that can withstand corrosion from saltwater, and it is not as stiff as aluminum, which will allow for a bit of flex. It features a forged and machined aluminum spool with line capacity rings so you know how much line you have left on your spool. The Squall Lever Drag uses all stainless steel gears, which have proven to be stronger than bronze, but are more prone to corrosion. It also uses the Dura Drag system, which will give extra durability due to a special coating on the carbon washers that can reduce friction and increase smoothness. The Squall Lever Drag comes with six stainless steel bearings, and the reel has a silent double dog for the anti-reverse system, which will provide you with a backup and distributed pressure, so that there will be less wear and tear on the reel. Furthermore, it features a Versa-handle design to allow you to set the handle in two different positions for retrieving, and a frame-flush ratcheting lever drag to keep the drag from sliding.

What we do not like about the Penn Squall Lever Drag rod and reel combo is that it is prone to corrosion, so make sure you wash it after each use. All in all, it is the best rod and reel combo for saltwater fishing. It is well-built, feels strong, is durable, and handles really well. Plus, it is an inexpensive choice for anyone who is up for some saltwater fishing.

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Best collapsible fishing rod (for backpacking)

7. Goture Xceed Travel Fishing Rods

Rod Lengths: 6'6” to 9'

Rod Material: Fiberglass

Rod Power: Medium to Medium-Heavy

The Goture Xceed is the best fishing rod for backpacking or travel as it is lightweight and durable.

What we like about the Goture Xceed Travel Fishing Rods is that you can choose what rod power you prefer and whether you like a casting or spinning rod. On top of that, it comes in a variety of lengths. It consists of a 4-piece rod design to make it more compact and transportable. It is also lightweight and feels balanced in your hand. Besides, it is designed with 30-ton carbon matrix for sensitivity, strength, and power, in addition to reel seats made of high-quality ABS material, and EVA split grips to provide you all-day comfort. Additionally, it has 7 1 corrosion-resistant guides with ceramic inserts that are perfectly spaced for a friction-free line flow and optimum casting performance.

It also comes with a great travel case that also seems to be durable. Although the rod has an adequate amount of flex, it is strong and casts excellently. Plus, it packs down to a length of 24 inches in its storage case, and it is perfect for both beginners and professional anglers. Finally, it is a fiberglass rod with a telescopic design that is capable of handling larger fish as it is sensitive enough and designed for efficiency.

What we do not like about the Goture Xceed Travel Fishing Rods is that the travel case can only fit the rod, which means you have to store the reel elsewhere. Other than that, this combo is very enjoyable to use, comes in both casting and spinning options, and offers a wide range of sizes. It is great for bass fishing, and it can be used on a boat or the bank.

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Best ice fishing rods

8. Shakespeare Glacier Ice Fishing

Rod Lengths: 26” and 30”

Rod Material: Fiberglass

Rod Power: Light and Medium

The Shakespeare Glacier is a rod and reel combo that is best for ice fishing use.

What we like about the Shakespeare Glacier is that it is available in 26 or 30 inches and with light or medium rod power. The rod is made of fiberglass, which is nice and durable and will last for a long time if cared for properly. Also, it bends well and doesn't break under pressure. Besides, the guides are stainless steel and the handle is made of EVA material, which is soft and fairly comfortable.

Since ice fishing is not the same as other fishing styles, the Glacier rod-and-reel combo is exclusively designed for ice fishing and is perfect for quick retrieval of fish of all shapes and sizes. It also comes with plastic reel holders to help lower the overall weight. Plus, it has a hook keeper, an extended stem for more clearance, and a 15-degree tilt orientation to create optimum line flow, so that your ice fishing line won't catch or tangle.

What we do not like about the Shakespeare Glacier rod-and-reel combo, however, is that its plastic holders are not long-lasting. But other than that, this is an ultra-flexible rod that is made with solid fiberglass and equipped with stainless steel guides with blue inserts to offer you a great ice fishing experience.

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Best jigging rod

9. St. Croix Mojo Jig Graphite

Rod Lengths: 5'8” and 6'6”

Rod Material: Graphite

Rod Power: Medium to Extra Heavy

The St. Croix Mojo is the best jigging rod as it offers the best value and performance.

What we like about St. Croix Mojo is that it is built to tire out the fish; not the angler. It is made with premium-quality SCII graphite with a Fortified Resin System, combined with Advanced Reinforcing Technology to deliver incomparable strength and durability. It has true saltwater-grade components for corrosion protection and saltwater stamina. It boasts SeaGuide guides with corrosion-resistant SS304 frames and aluminum-oxide rings to prevent deterioration, along with a Fuji PSS-SD palming reel seat with a black hood on the conventional models, and a Fuji DPS reel seat with black hoods on the spinning versions. Both reels are comfortable and reliable while jigging and fighting fish.

Additionally, it features a Kigan hook-keeper to secure the biggest jigs. Although the Mojo only comes in two sizes, it offers four options in terms of power — MMF (Medium Power with Medium Fast Action), MHMF (Medium Heavy power with Medium Fast Action), HMF (Heavy Power with Medium Fast Action), and XHMF (Extra Heavy power with Medium Fast Action). Other features of the St. Croix Mojo Jig include line guides which come with under wraps to protect the rod blank and a standard double-flex coat to protect it from the elements.

What we do not like about the St. Croix Mojo Jig is the limited choice of lengths. However, both lengths are acceptable for vertical jig fishing. Additionally, the removal of the finger grip on the casting rod may improve its use. Overall, this jigging rod works best for flat fall iron fishing to pick up tuna, and is affordable and durable. It provides you a high-speed reel and a strong rod to get good results and have the perfect action for a great overall experience.

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Best surf fishing rod

10. Okuma Longitude Surf

Rod Lengths: 8' to 12'

Rod Material: Graphite Composite

Rod Power: Medium to Heavy

The Okuma Longitude Surf is an affordable, versatile ocean or inshore fishing rod.

What we like about the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite is that it is available in 9 to 12-ft lengths and is made with graphite composite core, which is strong and flexible. Plus, it has aluminum oxide guide inserts that are braid compatible, and double-footed stainless steel guide frames to keep your line straight. Besides, it has a strong backbone and it is pretty long so you can reach those larger fish at the deep end.

Even though the rod is long, it can still be broken down into two pieces for easier storage and transport. The butt section of the rod is wrapped in premium cork with a non-slip design that feels comfortable.

Also, the rod itself is well-balanced, which reduces strain while casting and fighting. The stainless hooded reel seat also keeps the reel in place as you cast. Finally, the Okuma Longitude Surf fishing rod has a relatively fast action, which will help sense smaller fish.

What we do not like about the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite is that the size of the rod requires you to have a heavy reel. The action may also be too stiff for some. But all in all, it is one of the best surf fishing rods as it feels extremely well balanced, provides excellent sensitivity, and is perfect for the surf, the beach, and large rivers. It is also tough and can withstand many fights thanks to the materials incorporated in the rod.

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Best telescopic fishing rod

11. KastKing Blackhawk II

Rod Lengths: 6'6” to 8'0”

Rod Material: Graphite

Rod Power: Medium to Heavy

The KastKing Blackhawk II is one of our favorite telescoping fishing rods as it provides optimum performance and durability.

What we like about the KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod is that it gives you a lot of value for your money. Indeed, its budget-friendly price tag will satisfy anyone looking for the best affordable fishing rod or the best value fishing rod. It is an ideal choice for any angler, regardless of their skill level. It offers a wide range of lengths, as well as power, and action combinations to make sure there is something for everyone.

Besides, you can also opt for a casting or spinning version. Even though the Blackhawk II is a telescopic rod, it still feels premium and looks like a high-end fishing rod. It features a 24-Ton carbon fiber construction with a solid fiberglass core for increased strength. All Blackhawk II models can be collapsed to reach 21.7 to 26.8 inches in length, making them somewhat longer than those you can take for backpacking.

However, this rod weighs less than 6 ounces, meaning you can still carry it anywhere you go. It also has 7-9 stainless steel guides depending on the model you get, along with ceramic inlets and a floating guide, which are perfect for high dissipation and reducing friction. Furthermore, it features a reinforced graphite seat, a hook keeper, and an EVA foam handle.

What we do not like about the KastKing Blackhawk II is that its tip flexes a bit too much, which may be a deal-breaker for some anglers. All in all, this is still a reliable telescopic fishing rod that offers a lot of options to choose from, depending on your needs. It is extremely light with superb sensitivity to allow you to feel even smaller fish.

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Best fishing rod: Comparison table

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FAQs

What is a good size fishing rod?

For short, accurate casts, a 6 feet long rod or less is better. Meanwhile, a rod over 7 feet long is best if pinpoint accuracy is less critical. A shorter rod performs best in dirty water and heavy cover, where it requires a short-range accuracy.

How much does a good fishing rod cost?

A good, high-quality fishing rod costs somewhere around US$ 203, but will range between $30 and $550, which seems to be the average price for popular models.

 

Buying guide

Parts of a fishing rod

Learning about each part of a fishing rod will help you understand the factors you should consider when choosing a fishing rod.

• Female ferrule
  If a fishing rod breaks down into two pieces or more, a ferrule is a joint where the two sections of the rod fit together. Thus, a female ferrule is the lower part of the rod, and fits onto the male ferrule.

• Male ferrule

It is the bottom part of the rod's upper section. Male ferrules have a slightly flared shape to slide a female ferrule onto it in order to create a solid connection between two sections of a fishing rod.

• Guide rings
  These are little rings on the rod that “guide” the line through the length of the rod, from the butt to its tip. The exact amount, spacing, and size of the guides vary depending on the kind of rod.
  
  
• Windings
  These are string-like fasteners that attach the guides to the rod.
  
  
• Tip
  The tip is the thinnest and most flexible uppermost part of the rod. It is the nearest part to the tip top.
  
  
• Tip top
  This is the last guide at the very tip of your fishing rod, and also the tiniest. It will help you sustain an accurate casting.
  
  
• Butt
  The butt is the thicker end of your rod, which is closest to the handle.
  
  
• Butt guide
  This is the first guide, closest to the handle of your rod and at the butt or thickest part of the rod.
  
  
• Butt cap
  This is the bottom cap of the handle, which is made with either rubber or cork. The butt or bottom cap is the end you can press against your abdomen as you fight a strong fish.
  
  
• Handle
  This part is sometimes called the “grip” because it's where you hold the rod. A handle comes in cork, foam, or a combination of both.
  
  
• Reel seat
  This is where a reel attaches to the rod. Reel attachments to this reel seat may differ.
  
  
• Hook keeper or keeper ring
  It is a big safety feature which purpose is to give you a place to attach your unused hook to and keep it from swinging around and poking your skin.

 

Length

This is the first factor that you should look at when buying a fishing rod. It is important to determine the type of fishing you are getting into to find the right length for you. The length will also affect casting, accuracy and hook set leverage.

Short fishing rods:

• More power, which means using less leverage against the fish you are fighting
• High casting accuracy
• Easier to move around
• Shorter and slower lure travel, so less stress on your wrist and arm
• Easier to transport and store
• Lightweight and well-balanced

Long fishing rods:

• Greater distance in casting
• Best for shore or surf fishing as you want to cover as much distance as possible
• More initial leverage
• Greater rod stroke
• Greater line speed when casting 
• More fishing line clearance
• Transport is convenient for some anglers
• Casting may take more practice
• Weight becomes an issue over time
• May put stress on your wrists and arms

 

Rods' material

The material of a rod greatly impacts its performance, which is why you have to know the pros and cons of each type of material.

• Fiberglass

This material has been around for ages and can take a beating as it is strong and enduring. Fiberglass rods are easy to make, thus very affordable. However, they have a pliable nature and provide limited feedback, which makes it a lot harder to detect lighter bites.

• Graphite 

Graphite rods are a lighter alternative to fiberglass rods. They are very sensitive to bites and make casting and overall handling a breeze. However, they are stiffer and can be a lot more brittle.

• Composite

Composite is a mixture of graphite and fiberglass and will offer you all the flexibility you need, without adding weight nor sacrificing sensitivity. They are very versatile and a great choice if you are fishing in various waters.

 

Action

Action is one of the key performance components defined by the shape of the rod and material. It dictates how much and where your rod will bend, and controls the speed at which the rod transitions from “loaded” to its original position.

• Fast action (heavy)

• • Bends at the uppermost part, right below the tip
  • Sensitive to the lightest bites and will send vibrations straight to your hand
  • Can snap back very quickly, making it ideal for powerful hook setting
  • Works well with single hooks, worms, and large jigs
  • Has a strong backbone and fast-moving tips

 

• Medium action

• • Bends in the top half of the pole
  • Provides good hook setting capabilities and feedback
  • Allows you to cast decently far
  • Moves a bit slower than fast-action rods
  • Works well with multiple hook setups
  • Gives the fish more time to bite
  • Adds versatility to catch big and small fish in different waters

 

• Slow action (light)

• • Bendable all the way to the butt or bottom of the rod
  • Makes battling even the smallest critter really fun
  • Suitable for fishing panfish or trout
  • Allows for very impressive casts, but requires to match your lure size to the rod when casting
  • Needs time to lodge the hook inside a fish's mouth, thus the need for small lures
  • Not particularly easy to set the hook with
  • Requires you to pull back farther if a fish bites

 

Rod power

This is the rod's capability to withstand pressure, or its resistance to flexing. It relates to the thickness of the rod blank, therefore, heavier rods are best for larger fish and lighter ones are best for smaller fish. Power rating correlates with lure weight and fishing line weight.

Power:	Line Weight:	Lure Weight:
Ultra Light	1 to 4 lb. Test	1/64 - 1/16 oz.
Light	4 to 8 lb. Test	1/32 - 18 oz.
Medium	4 to 12 lb. Test	1/8 - 3/8 oz.
Medium Heavy	8 to 14 lb. Test	3/16 - 1/2 oz.
Heavy	15 to 25 lb. Test	Up to 1 1/2 oz.
Ultra Heavy	20 lb. Test and Up	1 1/2 oz. and Up

Rod markings

Almost all fishing rods have clear markings on them, and these numbers and letters will tell you all you need to know about the rod.

The first three or four numbers you will usually see refer to the rod length. The type of action comes second, and the last numbers refer to the recommended line and lure weights.

 

Types of fishing rods

• Casting rods

• • For circumstances that require pinpoint placement of bait or the lure
  • Have guide rings on top of the rod
  • The reels sit on top of the rod
  • Come in two sub-categories:
    
    
• Spincasting rod

This is a true beginner or kids fishing rod. It features smaller guide rings and a forefinger trigger grip. Its design combines a pin casting reel with a covered spool.

 

• Baitcasting rod

This one is for advanced anglers. It features a guide ring close to the reel and is bigger than a spin cast rod. It uses an open-spooled baitcasting reel and has a strong backbone/butt, which allows a lure to rip through vegetation or hook into tough fish.

• Spinning rods
  Spinning rods are shaped like casting rods but are thinner and lighter. They range from 5 to 9 feet (2.74 meters) in length. The reel on such a rod attaches and hangs off the bottom of the rod. It has a larger guide ring closest to the reel, which reduces friction on the line as you cast. Most beginners find it easy to learn with and comfortable enough.

 

• Fly rods
  Those are considered advanced anglers' rods, come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, and are designed for fly-fishing. Fly rods are thin, flexible, and lightweight, which will allow you to complete a specific method to mimic a fly moving just above the surface of the water. They use your wrist action to snap the rod forward and then back. The most distinctive feature of a fly rod is the lack of a butt section, which will help you make accurate casts.

 

• Ocean fishing rods
  These are either short if used on boats, or long if used from the shore, and are designed for the ocean. They are heavy duty with a thick and long butt section for fighting large, strong fish. These rods have distinctive and large guide rings to handle thick fishing lines. Additionally, the heaviest ocean fishing rods can target even a shark.

 

• Surf rods
  For fishing at a beach, this is the kind of rod for you. It's a subcategory of an ocean rod and is super long with a long butt and handle. This allows a heavy sinker and bait to be cast a long way offshore. This rod closely resembles a heavier, longer version of a spinning rod. 

 

• Trolling rods
  Those are used to drag lures behind a moving boat, which means you are attempting to entice fish to strike moving “food.” This is a good choice for a rod if you are fishing on a boat and targeting massive tuna. A long, heavy trolling rod with a fast action is best.

 

• Ice fishing rods
  Those look like spinning rods but they are much shorter and don't use a reel. Such a rod has a hook attached to it, and another one you cast out under the ice. To reel in the line, you have to wind in the line by hand. An ice rod is 24 to 36 inches (91 cm) long, and has possesses guide rings.

 

• Telescopic rods
  These are designed to be compact. A telescopic rod extends out from the handle for use, and folds up into itself to be stored or transported. Its packed length is around one to two feet long, and up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) long when expanded. These rods typically are simple spinning rods with fewer guide rings and a flexible tip. Although, some don't come with guide rings and have the line through the center of the rod. This is particularly popular with surf fishermen because it is long and easy to transport and store.

 

• Pen rods
  These are the most compact fishing rods and are similar to telescopic ones in terms of functionalities. As the name suggests, a pen rod resembles a large pen that can fit in a pocket or backpack if closed. They are super lightweight and only extend a few feet. A pen rod's performance will depend on the quality of the line and reel you use.