Best_Kayak_Fishing_Rods

The number one advantage of fishing from a kayak is that you can access some of the most lucrative yet hard to reach fishing spots. Of course, you can also go kayak fishing on the open water. No matter where you take your fishing kayak, the kind of fishing rod you have will determine how successful and enjoyable your fishing experience will be. 

To help you make the most of your kayak fishing excursions, we’ve compiled a list of the best kayak fishing rods to choose from. Due to the confined space that’s a kayak, the best rod for kayak fishing is short and portable. In the buying guide further down, we discuss the key features to consider to pick the perfect rod that will maximize the fun and minimize frustrations.

1

OUR TOP PICK

UglyStik GX2

UglyStik GX2


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Summary

The Shakespeare Ugly stick GX2 fishing rod is the most durable kayak fishing pole you can get. Innovative construction with a blend of fiberglass and graphite makes the rod blank virtually unbreakable. The rod lengths options ranging from 4'8" to 7' are also the ideal lengths for kayak fishing. As a bonus, the rod comes complete with a well-matched fishing reel. 

Construction Quality 

The combination of both fiberglass and graphite is responsible for the legendary durability of Ugly Stick rods. Even the two-piece rods feel like one-piece rods and can withstand rough treatment without breaking. The included reel is also good quality and features a machined double-anodized aluminum spool with an oversized bail wire. 

Features and Performance 

Another great thing about the GX2 rod is the smooth casting performance, and impressive casting distance no matter what fishing line you're using. Thanks to the graphite and fiberglass composition, the rod has good sensitivity for detecting even subtle strikes and a strong backbone for handling fish. Featuring three bearings and a one-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing, the reel delivers a smooth reeling experience as well.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Unparalleled strength and durability
  • Graphite and fiberglass rod has both strength and sensitivity
  • Rod comes complete with a decent-quality fishing reel
  • Perfect length options (4'8
  • Solid yet lightweight rod with a comfortable handle
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Lengths: 4’8″, 5′, 6′, 6’6″, 7′
Power: Ultra Light, Light, Medium, Medium Heavy
Configuration: 1 and 2 pcs
Construction: Graphite and Fiberglass

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Ugly Stik Elite

Ugly Stik Elite


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Summary

What sets the Ugly Stik Elite fishing rod apart from the other Ugly Stick rods is that it's constructed with 35% more graphite. Because of this, it feels lightweight and well-balanced in the hand and has exceptional flexibility and sensitivity. With short fishing rods lengths ranging from 4'6" to 7'6", it's one of the very best rods for kayak fishing in any environment.

Construction Quality

Since most of the rod is composed of fiberglass, the Elite still retains the incredible durability Ugly Sticks are known for and doesn't break easily despite the higher graphite content. It can survive hanging up in trees and snagging on rocks without breaking. To cap it off, the cork handle feels good in the hand, allowing you to fish for as long as you want. 

Features and Performance

Thanks to the higher graphite composition and clear tip design, the Elite is more responsive and sensitive than regular Ugly Stick poles. The one-piece stainless steel eyelets work well with any fishing line and eliminate insert popout issues. Casting is smooth and accurate and the flexible tip makes it easy to bring a jig or lure to life. As for pulling large fish, the rod is still stiff enough and has a good backbone. 

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: A more sensitive and flexible Ugly Stik rod
  • 35% more graphite content for improved sensitivity and comfort
  • Cork handle provides all-day fish-fighting comfort
  • Single-piece stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs
  • The clear tip is very strong and flexible, great for working lures
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Lengths: 4’6″, 5′, 6′, 6’6″, 7′, 7’6″,
Power: Ultra Light, Light, Medium, Medium Heavy
Action: Fast and Medium Fast
Construction: Graphite and Fiberglass

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3

BEST VALUE

PLUSINNO

PLUSINNO


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Summary

Featuring a top-level quality PLUSINNO fishing rod and reel combo that is offered at a great price, the PLUSINNO is one of the best fishing poles for kayak when considering value for money. On top of this, the collapsible rod in its protective case is perfect for storing in a kayak. Above all, this combo handles fish like a high dollar set up, despite being lightweight, compact, and affordable.

Construction Quality 

While the price is one of the best things about this setup, there's nothing cheap about its build. A blend of carbon fiber and fiberglass makes the rod hard and durable, yet lightweight and flexible. As for the components, it has a stainless steel hooded reel seat, aluminum oxide guide inserts, and a comfortable EVA foregrip.

Features and Performance

Don't let the collapsible design of the fishing rod cause you to dismiss it. PLUSINNO has a reputation for high-performance fishing rods, and they didn't drop the ball with this one. Even when extended fully, the rod has amazing action, sensitivity, and backbone. It also comes with the best kayak fishing reel featuring instant anti-reverse, power drive gears, and a deep spool with an awesome s-curve oscillation line winding system.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Oustanding value for money
  • High-quality kayak fishing combo with a top tier rod and 3000 reel
  • EVA fore handle gives you a comfortable and slip-resistant grip
  • Telescopic fishing rod collapses for easy storage in a kayak
  • High-strength yet lightweight carbon fiber and fiberglass rod
  • Solid and corrosion-resistant stainless steel hooded reel seat
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Lengths: 5.91, 6.89, 7.87, 8.86 feet
Power: Medium
Line Capacity: mm/M 0.20/240 0.25/200 0.30/140.
Construction: Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass

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4

Sougayilang Full Kit

Sougayilang Full Kit


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Summary

The Sougayilang kayak fishing package comes with everything you need to start fishing from a kayak. Beyond the fishing rod and reel, the kit includes a fishing line, several lures, and a carrier bag to accommodate everything. This makes it the best fishing rod for beginner kayak anglers. Additionally, the 5-piece, 6-piece, and 7-piece kayak rod designs are very convenient for carrying around in a kayak.

Construction Quality

The Sougayilang rod and reel can be summed up as strong and durable yet lightweight. The fishing rod is made of a high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass, while the reel features a hardened metal main shaft and a computer balanced spool with hollow frame design. 

Features and Performance

A fantastic thing about the rod is that the guides feature top-tier SIC ceramic inserts with superior heat dissipation. Due to this, the casting performance is exceptionally smooth. To further improve on this, the rod tip is fast enough for long casts. Equipped with 13 + 1 ball bearings and precision machined gears, the reel is also buttery smooth and gives you plenty of fish fighting power.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Complete beginner kayak fishing package
  • Kit includes fishing rod, reel, line, lures, and carrier bag
  • 5, 6, and 7-pieces configuration for convenient storage
  • Reel and rod feature a strong yet lightweight construction
  • SIC ceramic inserts on the guides dissipate heat very well
  • Included foam padded bag accommodates everything for compact packing
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Lengths: 5.91, 6.89, 7.87 feet
Power: Medium
Configuration: 5, 6, and 7 pieces
Construction: Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass

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5

PLUSINNO Telescopic Kayak Fishing Pole

PLUSINNO Telescopic Kayak Fishing Pole


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Summary

The best thing about this particular PLUSINNO kayak fishing pole and reel outfit is the top-level quality. Not only is the telescopic rod incredibly strong and the guides sturdy, but the fishing reel is also of top-notch quality. What else makes it a top rated kayak fishing pole is that it collapses small enough to fit easily in a kayak.

Construction Quality

The rod is constructed with 24-Ton carbon fiber that is reinforced with fiberglass, making it incredibly strong while still maintaining elasticity. Even the rod tip is strong enough to withstand snagging on rocks or brush. Another fantastic thing about this PLUSINNO rod is that the reel seat is CNC machined aluminum. 

Features and Performance

Besides durability, you can count on superior casting accuracy and distance with any fishing line thanks to the welded stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts. Featuring 12 +1 bearings and a thick bail wire, the reel performance is also silky smooth. All these qualities make this one of the best fishing rods for kayak fishing.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Top-level quality kayak fishing outfit
  • Strong and stiff yet elastic and sensitive fishing rod
  • Powerful 300 reel with 12 +1 bearings and a thick bail wire
  • Tough enough for both saltwater and freshwater use
  • Telescoping rod design and collapsible reel handle
  • CNC machined aluminum reel seat is solid and comfortable
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Length: 5.91, 6.89, 7.87, 8.86 feet
Power: Medium
Line Capacity: mm/M 0.20/240 0.25/200 0.30/140
Construction: Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass

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6

PLUSINNO

PLUSINNO


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Summary

What differentiates this PLUSINNO kayak fishing rod from the one preceding it is that the guides have zirconium oxide rings. The package is also slightly more affordable and scores extra points when it comes to portability. The rod has a telescoping design, the reel handle is collapsible, and the package comes with a carry case that easily stows in a kayak.

Construction Quality 

Just like all the other PLUSINNO fishing rods we've featured here, the rod is made of a high-density 24-Ton carbon fiber that's reinforced with fiberglass to give it strength and durability without sacrificing elasticity. The reel seat is also top-notch, as it's made of CNC machined aluminum. 

Features and Performance

In terms of performance, the welded stainless steel guides with Zirconium Oxide rings to ensure your casting experience will be smooth and your lures will be delivered as far out as you need them. The included reel is a 3000 series with 12+1 ball bearings, and a zinc alloy drive gear, so the reeling performance is also smooth.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Full package with a rod, reel, and carrier case
  • Strong and durable rod yet still elastic and sensitive
  • 3000 reel with 12+1 bearings and zinc allow drive gear
  • CNC machined aluminum reel seat is solid and comfortable to handle
  • SuperPolymer handles are comfortable, durable, and slip-resistant
  • Telescoping design and fold-up reel handle for easy storage
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Lengths: 5.91, 6.89. 7.87, 8.86
Power: Medium
Action: Medium Light
Line Capacity: mm/M 0.20/240 0.25/200 0.30/140
Construction: Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass

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7

OKUMA Classic Pro GLT

OKUMA Classic Pro GLT


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Summary

For trolling from a kayak, the OKUMA Classic GLT trolling rod is the best kayak fishing pole for the job. It's stiff enough to handle trolling and a top rated trolling rod for big fish like salmon and striper. At the same time, it’s sensitive enough to detect subtle bites by smaller fish. 

Construction Quality

Like most rods from OKUMA, the GLT is a quality trolling rod at an accessible price. The combination of a fiberglass blank and a stainless steel reel seat makes it strong enough to hold up to the demands of trolling and pulling big game fish.

Features and Performance

The medium light flex at the tip is perfect for trolling, while the medium flex in the rod keeps a steady tension on the fish when bringing it in. Adding to the strength for pulling fish are the double-footed guides with titanium oxide inserts and a tip-over butt ferrule. Finally, the unique grip feels good in the hand giving you great control.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Trolling from a kayak
  • High-strength fiberglass build with a stainless steel reel seat
  • Double-footed guides with titanium oxide inserts
  • Rubber shrink tube butt for easy removal from a rod holder
  • Tip over butt ferrule connection enhances rod strength
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Length: 7’6 to 10’6″
Action: Medium/Medium Light
Power: Medium/Medium Light
Line Capacity: 8-20 to 12-30lbs.
Material: Fiberglass

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8

Okuma NOMAD Travel

Okuma NOMAD Travel


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Summary

The Okuma Nomad kayak fishing rod is the perfect combination of quality, versatility, and portability you need in a kayak fishing pole. The three-piece configuration makes the rod very easy to stow inside a kayak. This isn't at the expense of sturdiness though. Thanks to European spigot ferrules, it feels and performs just like a one-piece rod. 

Construction Quality

This is a high-end rod from Okuma, and the quality of workmanship and finishing is outstanding. Made of heavy-duty aluminum, the rod is strong enough to handle large pelagics and features premium components for rock-solid durability. 

Features and Performance

Casting is silky smooth thanks to the guides featuring stainless steel frames and Zirconium guide inserts. Pair it with a powerful reel and you have the best fishing pole for kayak setup to take on even the largest species. As a bonus, the rod comes with two interchangeable tips with different actions.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Big game fishing and trolling
  • Great strength and rigidity for handling big fish
  • Three-sections configuration for easy storage in a kayak
  • European spigot Ferrules ensure one-piece performance
  • The package includes two tips with different actions
  • Comes secured in a custom padded and waterproof case
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Length: 7 feet
Power: Medium/Medium Heavy  
Line Capacity: 15~30 / 20~60lbs.
Construction: Aluminum

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9

OKIAYA COMPOSIT 30-50LB Kayak Spinning Rod

OKIAYA COMPOSIT 30-50LB Kayak Spinning Rod


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Summary

The Okiaya The Big Slayer kayak fishing rod is a powerful fishing rod capable of handling big game fish, and yet it's inexpensively priced. Despite the low price, it's a top rated fishing pole for big game fishing and trolling. It meets all IGFA standards for big game competitions. Best of all, the 5'6" length is perfect for fishing from a kayak. 

Construction Quality 

OKIAYA offers high-quality fishing gear at great prices and the Slayer is no exception. It's constructed with CNC machined aircraft-grade alloys making it a high-strength rod and the best kayak fishing rod for saltwater use. At the same time, the composite fiber shaft gives it adequate sensitivity.

Features and Performance

Since this rod is designed for big game fishing, its main characteristic is stiffness. It's a one-piece, heavy-action rod featuring five stainless roller guides and a roller tip. This makes it strong enough to hold its own when bringing in trophy catches.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Affordable big game saltwater fishing rod
  • Confidence-inspiring strength and stiffness for trophy catches
  • Fulfills IGFA standards for big game fishing
  • Nice stainless roller guides for a smooth performance
  • Comes wrapped in a protective rod sock
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Length: 5’6″
Action: Heavy
Line Rating: 30-50lb
Construction: CNC Machined Aircraft Grade Alloys

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10

Okuma Nomad Inshore Graphite

Okuma Nomad Inshore Graphite


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Summary

Finally, the OKUMA Nomad Inshore is the best kayak fishing baitcaster rod. It's a 7 feet long rod with a three-piece design and a padded and waterproof case for easy transportation. Above this, it features warm and comfortable cork grips, comes with two-rod tips with different actions, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Construction Quality

Featuring a graphite rod blank with a carbon outer wrap, the Nomad Inshore is lightweight and very easy to handle. The other components are top-notch as well. It boasts ALPS guides with Zirconium inserts and a machined aluminum trigger real seat. All this plus the seven feet length makes it the best kayak fishing rod even for sea fishing.

Features and Performance

The number one advantage the graphite rod blank offers is superb sensitivity. You can feel every little bump at the end of your fishing line. Even though it's a three-piece rod, the Nomad Inshore still feels like a one-piece rod. This is due to the use of European spigot ferrules.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Best For: Kayak fishing baitcasting rod
  • Incredibly lightweight and sensitive thanks to a graphite blank
  • Portable 3-section rod blank with a protective case included
  • European spigot ferrules offer the feel of a one-piece rod
  • Two tip sections with different actions make it two rods in one
  • Comfortable and durable cork fore and rear grips
  • Rock-solid durability backed by a lifetime warranty
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Rod Length: 7 feet
Actions: M/MH
Configuration: 3 pcs
Construction: Graphite Blank, Carbon Wrap

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How To Choose The Best Rod For Kayak Fishing – Buying Guide

How_To_Choose_A__Kayak_Fishing_Rod

Length

Because of the tight space when fishing on a kayak, a short fishing rod of around 6 feet is ideal when fishing off a kayak. Such a compact fishing rod for kayak will be easy to handle when seated inside a kayak. For ease of storage inside your kayak, it’s also a good idea to look for a telescoping fishing rod or a rod composed of multiple pieces that break down into a compact size.  

Shorter Butt Section

The butt section of kayak fishing rods is the part that sticks out underneath the reel. Due to the limited space on a kayak, the best rod for kayak fishing have shorter butt sections to allow you plenty of maneuverability while inside your kayak, and ensure the rod doesn’t get caught in your fishing vest. 

Mounting

When choosing a rod to use when fishing off a kayak with rod holder, it’s important to make sure that the mounting system on your fishing kayak and the fishing rod you choose are compatible. This will ensure the fishing pole/kids fishing pole you get will fit inside your rod holders. 

Leashes

Even with a kayak with rod holders, getting a leash for your fishing rod for a kayak is a great security measure. A leash will keep the rod attached to your kayak and minimize the risk of losing the rod in the event it slips out of your grasp and falls into the water or the kayak capsizes.   

Rod Action

The action of a fishing rod refers to how much curvature the rod has when it’s under tension from a fish. The action ranges from fast to slow. A fast action rod is incredibly sensitive and ideal when targeting fish with finicky bites. On the other hand, a stiff rod with a slow action can handle large and heavy fish species.  

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Material

Most of the best kayak fishing rods are made of either fiberglass or graphite or a mixture of both materials. This is because these materials are highly flexible but also incredibly durable. Graphite rods are lightweight and have a high level of sensitivity, while fiberglass makes for the most durable rods. Line guides and reel seats made of stainless steel or aluminum are ideal. As for the handle, both EVA and cork are great materials for kayak fishing rods. 

Type

There are two types of kayak fishing rods to choose between spinning and baitcasting rods. Spinning rods are ideal for casting lighter lures, while baitcaster models work well with heavier baits and large fish species. Due to the limited space when fishing from a kayak, it’s a good idea to go for foldable or telescoping rods. The best kayak fishing rods composed of multiple pieces will still give you great feel and strength. 

Rod Length and Weight

Fishing on a kayak requires more maneuverability so short fishing rods for kayaks around five and six inches are ideal. A lightweight fishing rod is also ideal, as it’s easy to handle when fishing from the confines of a kayak. Graphite fishing rods are lighter in weight than fiberglass fishing rods.

 

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FAQs

What_Is_The_Difference_Between_A_Regular_Fishing_Rod_And_Kayak_Fishing_Rod

Q: What Is The Difference Between A Regular Fishing Rod And Fishing Rod For Kayaks?

A: 

The main difference is that a kayak rod is shorter than a regular fishing rod. Additionally, kayak fishing rods have shorter handles from the reel seat to the butt. Most kayak fishing poles also have a telescoping design or are designed to break down into pieces. Such a packable rod will be easier to store in a kayak than a regular one-piece rod.

Q: Is Fishing On A Kayak Safe?

A: 

As long as you observe the safety precautions and are well prepared with the right gear including a kayak fishing life jacket, fishing on a kayak is a safe experience.  However, it's important to know about kayak fishing safety and learn how to do a kayak self-rescue.

Q: What Equipment Besides A Rod Will I Need For Fishing On A Kayak?

A: 

Besides a good fishing rod, you will also need a fishing reel, fishing line, hooks, lures or baits, kayak fishing net for landing fish, and a kayak cooler for preserving your catch. You will also need fishing tools such as a fish lip gripper and fishing pliers and accessories such as rod holders.

Q: What Is The Best Length Rod For Kayak Fishing?

A: 

The best kayak fishing rods for kayaks are between 4'6" and 8 feet in length. The ideal fishing rod length to go for will depend on where you fish. If you fish on the open water, a longer rod will enable you to cast your bait far out. If you fish in rivers and creeks with overhanging branches, shorter kayak rods are ideal to prevent snagging.

Q: Where Should A Kayak Rod Holder Be Placed?

A: 

Rod holders for a kayak can be placed on the front of a kayak, on the side of the kayak, or behind the kayak angler. The most important thing is that the kayak rod holder should be within easy reach but out of the way of paddling. That said, a holder on the rear is ideal for trolling, while a holder placed in the front works best when casting lighter lures.

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Having the best equipment is essential for an enjoyable, successful, and safe kayak fishing experience. To go with the best fishing kayak, you will need the best fishing rod for kayak too. Hopefully, this guide and reviews have given you the information you need to buy the best kayak fishing rod for your needs.

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