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There is no question that surf fishing can be an incredibly rewarding experience, especially when you’re able to land a big fish. However, if you’re looking to maximize your chances of success while surf fishing, it’s important to use the right gear. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best surf fishing rods on the market today. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right rod for your needs.
However, if you’re in a hurry and you just want to know what is the best surf fishing rod, then it’s the Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 2-Piece. This rod offers these standout features making it our top choice:
- The rod looks and feels professional, making you feel confident when using it.
- The guides on both rods are in perfect condition, ensuring that your line will not get tangled while casting.
- The rod is a lot lighter than other rods, which makes it easier to handle in the surf.
- Casting has massively improved with this rod, allowing you to cast farther distances than ever before.
- The rod is very sensitive and has a lot of backbone, making it the perfect choice for landing big fish.
Still not convinced? Then continue reading for other options and more information on how to choose the best surf fishing rod.
Best Surf Fishing Rods
- Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 2-Piece
- Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rod
- Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 4-Piece
- Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rods
- Hurricane Bluefin Spinning Surf Rod
- Penn Prevail Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
- Shakespeare Tidewater Spinning Fishing Rod
- Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 3-Piece
- Okuma’s Solaris Surf Fishing Rods SS-C-1102H-2
- Okuma’s Solaris Surf Fishing Rods SS-S-1202MH-1
- Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod 2-Piece
- Fiblink Surf Casting Fishing Rod 2-Piece
- Penn Carnage II Surf Casting Fishing Rod
- Saltwater Surf Fishing Rod “Black Magic” 10′
- Agepoch Telescopic Fishing Rod
- Okuma Tundra Surf Spinning Combo
- Sea Striker ST5080 Surf Spin Combo
- Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo 2-Piece
1. Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 2-Piece
It’s ideal for boat fishing thanks to the tough construction and tuned action. Plus, it has stainless steel and ceramic guides that are perfectly aligned and prevent the line from getting stuck. The guides minimize friction and allow smooth and long casts while also transferring vibrations from the line to your hand.
The rod features a non-slip rubber shrink tube handle. It has a tapered rear grip and tip-over-butt ferrule connection that allows durability and strength.
Its wheel seat has stainless steel tapered hood transitions that protect the cap. The transitions are above and below the reel seat. Overall, we think this is the best rod for surf fishing.
2. Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rod
The Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rod is also a versatile and affordable rod that can be used for a variety of fishing applications. We’ve used it for surf and also for catfishing. We were able to catch a lot of fish with this rod, including some big ones.
With this rod, we paired it with a heavy braid and it worked well. The reel that works great with this surf fishing rod would be the Penn Pursuit III & Pursuit IV Spinning Fishing Reel. We found this reel to be well-made and affordable, while still providing a great drag system. I like that this surf rod has good action and is sensitive enough to detect even the lightest nibbles.
The downside of this product is that it’s cheap. And yes, an affordable rod is good, but that also means the quality isn’t as good as some of the other rods out there. For instance, the knob fell off when we were using it. It’s not a big deal, but something to keep in mind. The surf rod was also a bit too heavy for us, which made it difficult to handle. The last thing that we weren’t too fond of is that it was a little too stiff in the tip. We would have liked it to be a bit more flexible.
All in all, the Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rod is a good and affordable option for those looking for a versatile surf rod. It’s sensitive, has good action, and can handle big fish. However, keep in mind that it’s cheap for a reason and the quality isn’t as good as some of the other options out there.
3. Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 4-Piece
The carbon fiber construction of the Fiblink Surf rod is one of the toughest on the market. It features increased sensitivity and improved tuned action.
It features stainless steel and ceramic guides for smoother and longer casts. The combination minimized friction and prevents the line from getting stuck in the guides. This also helps with transferring vibrations from the line to your hand.
All the guides are well-aligned on the bottom of the spine of the blank. Everything is perfectly straight which enhances the smooth performance.
The pole features a non-slip rubber cork handle with tapered rear grip. Plus, its tip-over-butt ferrule connection provides durability and strength for the long run. It also has a wheel seat with stainless steel tapered hood transitions.
It has medium to heavy power and 15-30lb line weight.
4. Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rods
It’s a durable glass fiber construction that’s strong and sturdy, yet flexible enough to handle big fish. It’s smooth and easy to work with thanks to the overall combination of its features and specifications.
Its reinforced double footed guides feature ceramic inserts for long casting and smooth operation. These prevent the line from getting stuck while you’re pulling your catch out.
The pole has medium to heavy action and can support 10lb to 30lb line weight with 2oz to 8oz lure weight. It features the five-plus tip and a fold-down stripper guide for some added convenience. Plus, the EVA foam rear and fore grips make it easy to hold even when wet.
5. Hurricane Bluefin Spinning Surf Rod
The Hurricane Bluefin is a spinning surf pole with a graphite reel seat and stainless steel cushioned hoods. It’s durable, long-lasting and easy to work with in various conditions.
This pole is among the most popular thanks to its double-dipped E-glass blank. The construction is combined with solid power wrap tip and aluminum oxide guides for smooth performance.
It’s a simple-looking rod that might not look like much at first. However, the two-piece combo is 12’ long which usually works great for all kinds of fish and fishing conditions. It has medium to heavy power with a line weight of 20lb to 40lb. Its lure weight is 4oz to 7oz.
The non-slip cork wrap handle is perfect for wet conditions, so it’s still easy to work with even when it’s wet.
6. Penn Prevail Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
The graphite composite blank construction is quite strong. It’s durable and won’t break under the weight of heavy fish. It’s still sensitive and flexible enough as well.
This one stainless steel guides with aluminum-oxide inserts. It’s suitable for both braided lines and monofilament depending on what you prefer the most.
Another thing worth mentioning is the DPS reel seat. It has a stainless steel hood and a reliable connection between pole and reel. The combination is durable and enhances the longevity of the fishing pole.
It also has rubber shrink tube grips that help with using the rod in wet and slippery conditions.
7. Shakespeare Tidewater Spinning Fishing Rod
It works with 10 to 25lb lines with its five guides precisely aligned along the spine. The Shakespeare tidwater surf rod features anodized aluminum Stuart roller guides and stainless steel rollers. The combination provides smooth performance and prevents the line from getting stuck.
It might be a bit tricky to master if you’re up against some larger fish, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it with a little practice. It has durable solid glass blank and is perfect for traveling.
8. Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod 3-Piece
It has stainless steel and ceramic guides for smooth performance. The guides help in preventing the line from getting stuck. They also minimize friction for long and smooth casts while transferring vibrations from the line to your hand.
The rod features a non-slip rubber shrink tube handle. The tapered rear grip butt ferrule connection allows durability and strength.
It has a plastic wheel seat along with stainless steel tapered hood transitions below and above the protective cap. Overall, it’s well-designed and quite easy to use when traveling.
9. Okuma’s Solaris Surf Fishing Rods SS-C-1102H-2
It has Fuji guides and aluminum oxide inserts that keep the line operating smoothly. It helps prevent the line from getting stuck while also allowing vibration transfer.
The pole features cork-wrapped non-slip rear and foregrips. These make it easy to work in wet and slippery conditions.
This one is easy to travel with as it’s lightweight and durable, so it won’t show any signs of wear after some rough handling. Plus, it’s a two-piece so you can keep it in your truck for an occasional cast.
It’s great for large fish since it has medium to heavy power. Also, it’s well-balanced and sensitive for long casts.
10. Okuma’s Solaris Surf Fishing Rods SS-S-1202MH-1
This one features Fuji aluminum oxide guide inserts for smooth performance. These prevent the line from getting stuck while you battle with your catch. On top of that, it has stainless steel double footed guide frames for added support and easier operation.
Another thing most anglers love is the cork-wrapped non-slip grip. It’s featured on both rear and foregrips. This helps you use the rod with more freedom as it won’t become slippery when wet.
It’s suitable for line weight of 20lb to 40lb and lures weight of 3oz to 8oz. Overall, it’s quite durable, and its strong backbone will pull out fish as heavy as 50lb.
11. Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod 2-Piece
If you’re an experienced angler, you’ve probably had a Penn product in your gear at some point. Their Battalion Surf spinning rod is among those you should definitely consider if you’re looking for a quality piece.
This one has two pieces in one, so it’s easy to travel with. It’s quite lightweight as well, so you won’t have issues with carrying it around in your truck for just in case.
It’s a 9’ pole with medium power designed for ½-2oz lures and 12lb to 20lb line. It has seven guides for smoother operation, so your line doesn’t get stuck anywhere.
The company has been around since 1932, so you can be sure you’re getting a product from a reliable manufacturer. The Battalion Surf spinning rod is among their best-selling models currently on the market.
12. Fiblink Surf Casting Fishing Rod 2-Piece
Much like other Fiblink rods, this one has stainless steel and ceramic guides. It enhances the smoothness and reduces the possibility of the line getting stuck in the process. This also helps pass the vibrations to your hand, so the line doesn’t shake as much.
The non-slip rubber shrink tube handle has a tapered rear grip. The tip-over-butt ferrule connection enhances the overall durability and strength. Another thing worth mentioning is its wheel seat that’s made with stainless steel tapered hood transitions.
13. Penn Carnage II Surf Casting Fishing Rod
The Carnage II surf casting rod is one of Penn’s best-selling products, so it’s definitely worth your attention if you’re looking for a quality piece. It’s a new generation of lightweight but powerful poles that deliver smooth performance.
It’s engineered to be versatile meaning you can even use braided fishing line. This one can take extra strain if you’re planning on catching some bigger fish.
One thing it stands out for is the Sis3 blank construction. It provides a thin diameter blank that’s more ergonomic, lightweight and easy to use.
The Carnage II pole features Fuji K guides along with Alconite inserts. These allow smooth performance and prevent the line from getting stuck as you tackle the big catch. It also has a non-slip fore grip that makes it easy to use in slippery conditions.
14. Saltwater Surf Fishing Rod “Black Magic” 10′
The Black Magic is constructed with quality components that are resistant to corrosion. This allows you to use it in the most aggressive salt waters without any problems.
It features sever oversize guides that make it easy to cast straight and farther than before. Plus, these allow smooth performance and prevent the line from getting stuck which usually tends to happen more often than not.
Another thing worth mentioning is the reel seat made of quality components that are also corrosion resistant. The grip features EVA foam for added comfort and ease of use.
15. Agepoch Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Agepoch rod is made from carbon fiber and fiberglass, so it’s durable, strong and lightweight. It has high-quality components and is one of the best selling products from the brand.
The rod has quality gold-colored guide loops that are corrosion resistant. These allow smooth throwing and reduce the possibility that the line could get stuck in the process.
It also features the lotus thread ring that’s quite precise and makes the overall operation easier. You can adjust the position up and down until you find the way it’s most practical to you.
The brand chose the high-grade extended non-slip handle. It’s breathable and comfortable so you won’t feel any stress on your hand after prolonged fishing.
Overall, it’s easy to travel with and keep in a bag or suitcase. You can also carry it in your truck for occasional throws from the beach.
16. Okuma Tundra Surf Spinning Combo
The corrosion-resistant graphite spool and glass fiber blank construction are strong and sturdy. Since these are the most important components, you’ll notice their good quality and ease of use.
Another thing worth mentioning is the multi-disc oiled-felt drag system. It allows you to battle bigger fish without any problems. Plus, the EVA foam fore and rear grips make it easy to maneuver with even in wet and slippery conditions.
The rod is 10 foot long, and its 80-sized spinning reel can hold up to 260 yards and 25lb test. It has ceramic guide inserts that keep the line going smoothly, preventing it from getting stuck.
17. Sea Striker ST5080 Surf Spin Combo
Sea Striker surf spin combo is ideal for those fishing for large fish. It’s easy to use and travel with, so you can carry it in your truck for an occasional throw whenever you want to.
It’s a 2-piece that’s 8ft long and has medium power. In most cases, it’s suitable for a wide variety of different fishing and weather conditions. You can use different line and lure, which allows you to experiment a little with both.
It’s an affordable combination that’s suitable for beginners as well as for more advanced anglers. Overall, it might take you some time to get used to its stiffness. You can use it in different waters and upgrade it to your liking.
18. Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo 2-Piece
It’s a blank fiberglass construction that’s quite long-lasting and strong. It can take a beating, so you can use it to catch some larger and heavier fish.
The aluminum-oxide guides help with the smooth operation as they prevent the line from getting stuck in the process. Plus, its EVA foam grip makes it easy for you to battle the heavy catch since it’s easy to hold on to even in wet and slippery conditions.
The reel it comes with has a stainless steel ball bearing drive and is suitable for a wide range of different fishing methods.
Popular Surf Fishing Rod Brands
The best brands for surf fishing rods are the following: Penn, Fiblink, Okuma, Shakespeare, and St. Croix.
Penn rods are known for their quality and durability. They offer both conventional and spinning models in a variety of lengths and weights to suit any angler’s needs.
Fiblink rods are also well-known for their quality construction. They are available in both telescopic and collapsing designs, making them easy to transport and store.
Okuma rods are a great value for the price. They are durable and well-made, yet still affordable.
Shakespeare rods are popular among beginner anglers. They are affordable and durable, but may not be as high-quality as some of the other brands listed here.
St. Croix rods are considered by many to be the best rods on the market. They are very high-quality and durable, but also quite expensive.
Buying Guide: Surf Fishing Rods
There are several factors to consider when purchasing a surf fishing rod. Below, we will go over some of the most important considerations when making your purchase.
Action
A moderate-action surf rod is ideal because you want to maximize casting distance as bites are harder to detect in the surf.
Surf Fishing Rod Length
For surf fishing in moderate surf, a rod that is 8 to 10 feet long should work well. If you are fishing in rougher surf, you may need a longer rod length.
Power
A medium-heavy power rod rating with a 2-6 oz lure rating is needed for larger fish. It’s critical that your rod is tall enough so the line doesn’t get caught in the surf breaking along the beach.
Reel
You’ll want a reel with 500 yards of 25-pound braid on it. You’ll need a reel in the 6000-8000 size range to meet this requirement. The amount of line that can be spooled is the most essential feature of a surf reel.
Guides
The guides are what help to transfer the energy from the fly line to the rod, and they need to be strong enough to handle the stress. A good guide will also have a smooth surface, which will help to reduce friction and minimize wear on the line.
Materials for Surf Fishing Rods
Graphite: Graphite material on surf fishing rods is important for sensitivity. When a fish bites, the graphite will transmit the feeling to your hands so you can set the hook.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass material is also important for sensitivity on a surf fishing rod. Like graphite, fiberglass will transmit the feeling of a fish bite to your hands. Additionally, fiberglass is strong and durable so it can withstand the abuse of salt water fishing.
Hybrid: Hybrid rods are made with a combination of graphite and fiberglass. This gives you the best of both worlds with sensitivity and strength.
When choosing a surf fishing rod, you’ll need to decide what material is most important to you. Graphite rods are sensitive to bites, while fiberglass rods are strong and durable. If you’re not sure which material is right for you, consider a hybrid rod that combines the best of both materials. Whichever material you choose, be sure to get a rod that is suited for your experience level. Novice anglers should start with a shorter rod while experienced anglers can use a longer rod for better casting distance.
Casting Distance
The key is to get the bait or lure past the breaking waves where the water contains more fish. It’s also easier to work with your lure in this water because it’s relatively calm.
However, this means you’ll have to throw far and also maintain the accuracy when you cast. The two most important things that impact your distance are length and action.
A longer pole can significantly improve your distance which is why most models measure between 9 to 15 feet. Those with slower actions usually help increase your casting range, which is why smaller poles are easier to work with in terms of accuracy.
Bait Used
If you use a lightweight rod with fast action, you should only choose lightweight plugs and small spoons. On the contrary, heavier lure and bait requires heavier power and slower action.
You might want to think about your preferred bait and lure before opting for a pole. This way, you can be sure that the rod of your choice can actually work with your favorite lure and bait since not all of them do.
If you’re into small lures, you should go for a spinning rig instead of a baitcasting rig. You lose backlash entirely, although you might lose some casting distance as well.
Final Thoughts on the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
As you can see, surfing rods are entirely different than the simple fishing poles you may use for other methods. This is because surf fishing is a bit more demanding, so your pole has to be able to put up with the process.
Still, choosing one shouldn’t be a problem for anyone as long as you carefully consider your needs and preferences. Think about what your favorite lure is and what fish you’re targeting. The distance you’re trying to reach is another factor you should keep in mind since it helps determine the size that would work for you.
Overall, the products we reviewed above are the best surf fishing rods that the market has to offer. They range in size as well as price, so we’re sure there’s one for you on that list.
Josh Hassell
There's nothing better than going out to the lake early in the morning, and catching some fish! Like many other anglers, I find fishing to be very therapeutic. I've been fishing since I was about 10 years old, and fell in love ever since. I hope to share my expertise and knowledge with the community, and help everyone become better anglers.
