Best Kayak Fishing Rod to Buy

Important Considerations Choosing a Kayak Fishing Rod

Length:

Rods range between 4ft all the way to 14ft. The idea is if you want to cast far, you need a long fishing rod while if you want to cast a short distance, a short fishing rod is ideal. When fishing in a kayak, you will need all the stability possible when reeling in a big fish. 

Therefore, you will need a fishing rod from 6-8ft long. Being in close combat with the fish does not require a very long or very short rod. With a mid-length fishing rod, you have the best of both worlds between the long and short rods allowing you to get good cast distance but still being able to easily maneuver the poll around. 

If you need to save on space and don’t need to cast a long distance a short fishing rod is more applicable. Your rod length is also dependent on the lure type and the species of fish you are trying to catch.  

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Fishing Rods

These two types of rods are distinct to each other. This is because fishing rods used in saltwater are more prone to corrosion because salt is brutal to metallic parts. Fishing rods tend to be made of fiberglass, graphite, and composite materials with stainless steel guides. 

If you use a freshwater reel in saltwater, it will definitely get corroded. Always rinse your fishing rod and reel with fresh water if you use it in saltwater.

The price of saltwater fishing rods is much higher than a freshwater fishing rod. So, if you want maximum functionality, it is better to go with saltwater fishing rods since they can be of use universally. Additionally, saltwater fishermen will typically be trying to catch larger fish.

Fishing Kayak Holders

Before you bring your fishing rods on board, it is essential that you have a secure place for them. This is because you can’t hold the rods the entire time and navigate the waters at the same time. If you have a fishing kayak, the holders will already be installed probably in the back of the seat. 

But if you need to install your rod holders, first know the number of rods that you will be bringing. You have two choices in rod holders that include flush mount and deck mount bases. 

Flush mount holders are not adjustable so you will need to install adjustable rod holders in the deck of the kayak. 

Which is better: Fishing Rod Leash or Rod Floater?

If your kayak flips over or you accidentally drop your rod overboard, you will probably lose it. This is where a rod floater and leash comes in. A rod floater is preferred if you have a small kayak since they will not get in the way unlike when you are using leashes as they can get tangled. 

But it depends on what you like. The idea is to make sure you keep your fishing rods with you since losing one will spoil your trip. 

Best Fishing Rods in 2021

1. Cadence Fishing CR5 Spinning Rods

If you are looking for a well-rounded fishing rod, a CR5 spinning rod may be the perfect addition to your fishing kayak. It uses premium materials that will guarantee performance and reliability in various environments.

With a construction from 30-ton graphite and stainless-steel guides, this fishing rod is destined for longevity especially if you plan to catch redfish, seatrout, and flounder. It will survive in the salt water and keep performing as good as new for a long time. 

This model comes with a Fuji reel seat that is ergonomically designed to keep your hands supported and fatigue-free. You will also like working with the EVA handles that offer either a full grip or a split grip.

You can have the Cadence CR-5 in a variety of configurations including the different length, power ratings, action, and lure weight. These features allow you to choose the most ideal to suit your specific needs. 

2. Kastking Perigee II Fishing Rods 2-Piec

Perigee II is a set of two fishing rods with construction from 24-ton carbon. This is a favorite material since it can withstand inshore and some offshore fishing. You will notice that they are aesthetically appealing thanks to the smooth black and white finish.  

These are highly-valuable fishing rods that have two tips. You can choose from the medium model that comes with a medium light tip or the medium-heavy tip. We like the Fuji O-ring guides, robust reel seats, and the high-density EVA handles that allow you to fish for hours without any fatigue. 

With a wide array of choices, you can pick one of the fishing rods in the Kastking line and make it your favorite kayak fishing pole. Whether it is a baitcaster or a spinning rod, this brand has your back. With the help of the KastKing PTS spigot joints, power is transitioned smoothly throughout the fishing rod. This gives you a dynamic way of fishing as you can set out in any fishing ground and bring in a lot of fish. 

3. Ugly Stik Fishing Rod

The Ugly Stik Fishing Rod is associated with beginners because it is lightweight and more manageable. Even then, it is a highly-functional kayak fishing rod as we consider the best fishing rods. It has a fiberglass tip that is definitive of the features it brings to the table. 

This fishing rod blends in fiberglass with an increased level of high-modulus graphite. It is crafted to be in good condition for a long time and also improves its sensitivity to give you the finesse you need in fishing activities. 

It uses stainless steel, Ugly Tuff, guides that are engineered to be a single piece. This means they do not have a weak point; thus improving their durability. You can work with fluorocarbon, monofilament, and braided lines as the guides allow for smooth running no matter the type of fishing line you are using

This model also follows through with dual EVA handles that are super grippy in wet conditions. Better still, it has graphite reel seats that can either be twist-locking or have the conventional locking for proper securing of the reel.

The Ugly Stik fishing rod speaks volumes about giving you a memorable time on the water. It’s a great choice for beginners and pros as well.

 4. PLUSSINO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

If you are experienced in kayak fishing, you will want something more portable and sophisticated to match your casting needs. The PLUSSINO Rod and Reel Combo is an excellent pick as it provides improved casting accuracy. 

You get to choose from six different size rods for your specific situation. The fishing pole is telescopic to allow for portability. It includes graphite blank construction to increase its overall sensitivity so that you can guide in fish without spooking them. 

What’s more, it has aluminum oxide guide inserts that guarantee smooth gliding along with the stainless steel reel seats. The EVA foam grips are designed to offer you one-handed casting that is straightforward and convenient whether you are using a sit-in or sit-on-top kayak. 

We like that it has an anti-reverse function so that you can strike without the chance of losing tension on the line. 

PLUSSINO Rod and Reel Combo has lots of credible features that we except on one of the best kayak fishing rods.

5. Sougayilang Fishing Rod Reel Combos Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing

Looking for a travel fishing rod can be difficult and time consuming with so many to pick from. But with the Sougayilang Fishing Rod Reel Combos, all you need is pack up your gear and fish from anywhere on the planet. The telescoping design makes it ideal for travel as it can fit in almost any carryon-bag. 

This rod can extend up to 9.3ft. It is a nice pick for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The rod boasts a construction from aluminum and carbon fiber. It has a medium-light power that you can use with lures from 30-60g. We don’t find it limiting since you can catch most small and medium-sized fish with ease. 

This model comes with a full metal reel that includes a one-way clutch and 13+1 ball bearing pieces. The cast control is fully adjustable and is complemented by 5.2/5.5:1 gear ratio. Not to mention, it has an outstanding line lay oscillation system. 

With this model, you can fish from a kayak and get powerful performance if you are around reefs or rocks. Sougayilang strikes a balance between being sturdy, lightweight, and durable. 

Final Thoughts:

We have covered the best kayak fishing rods for the ultimate angling experience. These models include short fishing rods that are durable, efficient, and packed with flexible features. If you spend lots of time on the water, these fishing rods are all you need for your excursions. 

We recommend the CR5 spinning rods as the most premium model for experienced and novice anglers alike. It has a high-quality design which promises flawless performance. 

If you are looking for portability, the PLUSSINO and Sougayilang Fishing Rod Reel Combos are an excellent pick. We believe each of our choices is unique in its design. You can now bring home a grat catch with our top picks for the best kayak fishing rods.