If you’d like to win almost all fights with feisty bass, your best bet is to invest in a baitcasting rod along with a baitcasting reel. That’s because this style of fishing provides you with better control over the cast.
This added freedom and control can make you a more confident angler. But even with that said, it’s always important to find the best baitcasting rod under 50. Why 50 bucks? You might be wondering.
Well, that’s the budget range which in our view represents the sweet spot in terms of value and quality.
If you go for a rod that’s priced well below this price point, you are likely to end up with cheap knockoff.
Top-Rated Baitacsting Rods Under 50 in 2023: Comparison Table
Want to start casting further and better? The following comparison table can provide you with a rough idea of what reel you need to spend your money on.
| Ranking | Name | Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Entsport E Series | 7 Feet | 7.2 ounces |
| 2 | Ugly Stik Elite Casting Rod | 6 Feet 6 Inches | 8 ounces |
| 3 | Entsport 2-Piece Casting Rod Graphite Baitcast Rod | 7-Feet | 5.6 ounces |
| 4 | Entsport E Series Rattlesnake Casting Rod | 7-Feet | 6.4 ounces |
| 5 | Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting | 7 Feet | 33.6 ounces |
| 6 | Akataka 1 Piece Baitcasting Rod | 7 Feet 1 Inches | 70.4 ounces |
| 7 | Shakespeare UglyStik GX2 Casting Rod | 5 Feet 6 inches | 4.8 Ounces |
1. Entsport E Series 2-Piece Carbon Fiber Fishing Rod
What do you look for when investing in a rod? Well, if versatility is a top priority to you, you might like what this rod from Entsport has to offer.
For starters, it comes with 2 tips. That way, you can choose whichever works best for you depending on your level of experience.
On top of that, it boasts some comfy high-density EVA handles. These are handy and help a lot when one is planning to spend long hours fishing.
Pros
- 2 tips to choose from
- Light in weight
- Reasonably priced
- Comfortable
Cons
- It’s a 2-piece rod, not as strong as 1-piece rods
2. Ugly Stik Elite Casting Rod
This rod comes from Shakespeare which is one of the leading rod manufacturers currently. Indeed, the Shakespeare Ugly Stik line of rods is known for its quality Clear Tip design.
On top of that, the rod comes with added graphite which can go a long way in enhancing its durability. Its awesome design also makes it ideal for saltwater use.
In our view, this is one of the rods that can withstand anything you throw at it.
Pros
- Durable, 1-piece design
- Sensitive tips
- Well-made stainless steel guides
Cons
- Heavier than average
Also read: 10 Best Baitcasting Rod Under $150 – Reviewed & Compared
3. Entsport E Series Inshore Baitcasting Rod
This may not be the toughest thing out there but if you’re planning to fish in freshwater surfaces, it can easily exceed your expectations. We generally like its build quality.
Its carbon blank makes it relatively strong. Plus, it comes with good quality EVA handles which enhance comfort as you use it for long hours.
Its stainless steel guides aren’t too bad either. They can withstand corrosion and that means they can protect your fly fishing line in the long-run.
Pros
- Reliable quality
- Comfortable and ergonomic
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not suited for saltwater conditions
- Doesn’t seem long-lasting
4. Entsport E Series Rattlesnake 2 Piece Casting Rod
This has to be the best choice reviewed so far for anyone who is looking to get maximum bang for their bucks. It comes with 3 tips so you get to choose which one works best for you.
Of course, that presents a downside in the sense that this rod has to be a 2-piece unit. It is, therefore, not a badass as far as durability is concerned. Fortunately, you can use it for several years if you only head out to the water once in a while.
Pros
- Professional design
- Good performance
- Parabolic bend
Cons
- May break if used against large fish
- Feels cheaply made
5. Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod
Its hybrid design is probably what makes it stand out from the pack. But besides that, this unit packs some SS304 line guides which are just as tough as aluminum oxide ones yet lighter!
For that reason, this Cherrywood rod does a good job of transmitting sensitivity. On top of that, it ensures that your lines last long.
On the flip side, though, it comes with a cork handle design. While this provides you with a good grip, it also means that you’ll not enjoy the comfort that EVA cushioned handles offer.
Pros
- Seems toughly built
- Well-made line guides
- Easy to use
Cons
- Its cork handle isn’t as comfortable
- Only 1 tip is provided
6. Akataka 1 Piece Baitcasting Rod
This is a good rod only that it’s underrated. It seems like most people are yet to learn about it.
However, that doesn’t stop us from seeing the beauty in it. It is quite durably made and can be used in saltwater and freshwater conditions.
It’s also light in weight meaning it is ideal for long sessions of fishing.
Pros
- Great design
- Highly sensitive to changes
- Can be used for saltwater fishing
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Some Shimano reels don’t fit into it
7. Shakespeare UglyStik GX2 Casting Rod
This is yet another fine one from the Ugly Stik family on our list. It is well made and feels quite light. But don’t let its light weight fool you – the badass packs a lot of awesome power.
The rod is made from a combination of fiberglass and graphite. So, it’s strong and sensitive.
Pros
- Quality construction
- Ideal for saltwater fishing
- Good grip
Cons
- Some complain that it’s a bit too stiff for their liking
How to Choose a Good Baitcasting Rod
If you’re targeting the under 50 variety, you’ll have to settle for the basic features that matter. Here we’re talking about good build-quality.
We’re also talking about the ability of the rod to handle abuse and almost anything you throw at it. And above all, you need to look for a rod that offers good quality construction. Other features to consider include:
Tips: 2 or more tips offer versatility
Piece: 1-piece construction is stronger but less versatile than 2-piece
Comfort: A comfortable rod is one that’s light in weight and with a good handle
Which One Is The Best?
At this point, we’d now like to pick just one rod that we happen to think offers the best value for money. That one has to be the Entsport E Series 2-Piece Carbon Fiber Fishing Rod.
It’s affordably priced and comes with 2 tips so you can switch them whenever you need to. That’s good value for money in our view.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a tough rod for bass fishing or a simple one for freshwater fishing, we hope that the list above has been of help. What you need to know is that the best baitcasting rod under 50 doesn’t have to be a cheap knock off.
There’s a lot of good quality stuff available at this price range – if only you look close enough!