If bass is the kind of delicacy you want to see on your plate more often, then you are better off catching it yourself.
Now, doing that may not be as easy as it sounds but with first-rate equipment, you are bound to succeed.
For instance, you want to get the best bass fishing rods,as they will play a crucial part in ensuring that you make a good catch.
Pay attention as we guide you through the buying process.
Best Bass Fishing Rods 2023: Comparison Table
What kind of rod would you like to use to fight the feisty fish that is bass? Here’s our table of the 12 leading choices currently.
| Ranking | Name | Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KastKing Perigee II O-Ring Line Fishing Rods | 6 Feet 7 Inches | 3.3 pounds |
| 2 | Abu Garcia Veracity Casting Rod | 7 Feet | 3 pounds |
| 3 | Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting,Red | 7 Feet | 0.975 pounds |
| 4 | Enigma Fishing Phenom Titanium Bass Fishing Rods | 7 Feet | 2.7 pounds |
| 5 | Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod | 6 Feet 6 inches | 0.4 pounds |
| 6 | Kastking Pro Tournament Series Bass Fishing Rods | 7 Feet 6 Inches | 3.4 pounds |
| 7 | KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rods | 8 Feet | – |
| 8 | St Croix PS70MF Premier Spinning Fishing Rod | 7 Feet | 1.5 Pounds |
| 9 | Entsport E Series – Camo Legend 2-Piece Casting Rod | 7 Feet | 0.8 pounds |
| 10 | KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo | 5 Feet 7 inches | – |
| 11 | St. Croix MJS68MXF Mojo Bass Spinning Fishing Rod | 6 Feet 10 inches | – |
| 12 | Cadence CR6B Baitcasting Rods Fast Action Fishing Rods | 7 Feet | 0.27 pounds |
1. KastKing Perigee II O-Ring Line Fishing Rods
First on our list is the KastKing Perigee O-ring Line Fishing Rods. This is one of the best rods on the market today for seasoned anglers. This unit provides you with quite a number of beneficial features and also has attention to detail style that anglers will appreciate. Let’s do a brief review to give a better understanding of this Kastking Perigee II Fishing Rod.
Product Description
KastKing Perigee O-Ring Line Fishing Rods is made from high-quality carbon fiber material. This is one o the best material and has taken tend in most industries for those who want a rod that has enhanced power and performance.
In addition, the manufacturer has included two different rod designs in this unit. This allows you to choose between the medium-light rod or the heavy rod. This makes the pole convenient, versatile, and ideal for all types of fishing.
Other Features and Benefits
To start with, the KastKing Perigee O-Ring Line Fishing Rods feature a power transition system that helps in transitioning the power in the entire blank. Another feature that enhances its power and performance is the computer wrapping control at the four angles.
Also included in this fishing rod is the high-density EVA grips that provide a better grip and comfort when using it. You will also get value for your money because you will receive two fishing rods for a lower price compared to most models.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Resistant and durable
- High-quality design
- Feels like a single piece
Cons
- Comes without a case
2. Abu Garcia Villain & Veracity Casting 2.0 Fishing Rod
Another great option is the Abu Garcia Villain & Veracity Casting 2.0 Fishing Rod. Abu Garcia is popular for producing high-quality products at an affordable price. The Abu Garcia Villain & Veracity Casting 2.0 Fishing Rod is no different.
Product Description
For starters, you will notice that this light and medium villain has a good amount of power so it can muscle even the biggest fish. Another great thing is that the Abu Garcia Villain & Veracity Casting 2.0 Fishing Rod is super sensitive so you can easily identify the fish.
If this will be your first time to fish with an Abu Garcia rod, you should note that their medium light version might be too stiff than a regular rod. With that in mind, we would call this fishing rod medium.
Other Features and Benefits
One important quality about this veritas rod its versatility. You may use it for baitcasting or for jigging. Besides that, this medium rod is lightweight, which will make your angling experience a breeze. The rod is constructed from graphite, making it really sensitive.
So, it will give you an advantage over the fish since it offers you a great deal of awareness. Because it has a durable construction, you can use this fishing rod for years. Another notable feature is that the Abu Garcia Villain & Veracity Casting 2.0 Fishing Rod features micro guides that are built of Titanium alloy, which further enhances its durability.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Very sensitive
- Great guides and handles
Cons
- Might be too light for some anglers
3. Berkely HD Cherrywood Casting Rod
Next up is the Berkely HD Cherrywood Casting Rod. The good thing about this rod is that it comes with multiple length options starting for 5 feet all the way to 7 feet long. However, despite the difference in lengths, they are all considered to be medium length.
Product Description
This Berkely HD Cherrywood Casting Rod has a rustic look and wooden grip with black fittings and plastic. Beyond the grip, this narrow rod is almost fully metallic red. The design makes it quite sturdy and durable.
The body is built with aluminum oxide SS304, which is less than half heavier and 20 times tougher than common aluminum oxide. On top of that, this casting rod has a hybrid design that adds to the agile yet tough body.
Other Features and Benefits
This first notable feature is that this unit moderately powerful since the total length plus the design makes it agile enough to allow the bail to move around seamlessly but also stiff enough to move around heavy baits.
The main differentiator of this model is its natural cork look. This feature allows you to hold it on the front when pulling by stabilizing the rod and enhancing the grip while moving it around. So you can carry a variety of motions, and you don’t have to worry about the rod wobbling out of control.
Finally, as earlier mentioned, it is fitted with a rustic handle that’s quite cheap and simple, but it’s light, which makes it easy to hold and get the job done.
Pros
- Value for money
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Durable and strong design
Cons
- Not ideal for saltwater as it may corrode
4. Enigna Phenom High-Performance Bass Titanium Fishing Gen2 Fishing Rods
The other item to earn a spot on this list is the Enigna Phenom High-Performance Bass Titanium Fishing Gen2 Fishing Rods. The rod has a high-quality design and amazing features to give you an amazing angling experience.
Product Description
Enigna Phenom High-Performance Bass Titanium Fishing Gen2 Fishing Rod is built from a high-quality material, which gives it the durability and sturdiness needed for most bass species. So you can fish with this rod for a long time, and it will stay in good condition.
This Enigna Gen2 contains eyelets that are made from zirconium and coated with titanium. This further makes this model corrosion/resistant and durable, which means, unlike our previous option, you can use this one on salty water.
Other Features and Benefits
To start with, most customers have noted that this rid is quite sensitive and lightweight. The extra sensitive is super important because no matter how small the fish is, your line will feel it and hook it. On top of that, it is lightweight, so you won’t get too fatigued while angling.
You can confidently this Enigna Phenom High-Performance Bass Titanium Fishing Gen2 Fishing Rods because it is backed by superior design and a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Lightweight
- Affordable price
- Super-sensitive
Cons
- Limited length options
5. Ugly Stik Ultra-Light Elite 6’6” Spinning Rod
The Ugly Stik Ultra-Light Elite 6’6” Spinning Rod is for anglers who want to catch large and medium challenging fishes. If you want to know more about this spinning rod by ugly stik then check out the review below.
Product Description
The Ugly Stik Ultra-Light Elite 6’6″ Spinning Rod is made of graphite and fiberglass though the manufacturer claim that it has 35% more graphite compared to another spinning rod. Although this spinning rod is not completely made with full graphite, it is quite tough and durable.
Additionally, there are multiple sizes to choose from this spinning rod. It starts from 4’5″ to 7’5″ so you can select the size that best fits your fishing type. The 5’5″ size is quite popular among anglers. Also, most sizes come in 2-piece or 2-piece so you can pick the one you are most comfortable with bearing in mind that does not affect the price.
Other Features and Benefits
At times holding a spinning rod for a long time while fishing can be quite tiring as it might start feeling heavy on your hand. No need to worry about this when using the Ugly Stik Ultra-Light Elite 6’6” Spinning Rod because the handle is made of cork, which makes it possible for you to hold the handle for a long time without getting tired.
Though this unit might seem exceptional, it is ideal for all kinds of anglers. It is an excellent option for professional anglers and also for those who spend their leisure time angling. Besides that, it comes at an affordable price because it is neither cheap nor overpriced.
However, the fishing reel seat is shorter than other options on the market. Also, the braided lined tends to tear guides apart, so if you like using a braided line, then it might not be a great choice.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Sensitive
- Lightweight construction
- Easy to carry
Cons
- Short reel seat
6. Kastking Pro Tournament Series Speed Demon Bass Fishing Rods
Kastking Pro Tournament Series Speed Demon Bass Fishing Rod takes the fishing rod construction process to a whole new level through new experience and technology. This fishing rod is made to make your angling experience easier and more effective.
Product Description
Kastking Pro Tournament Series Speed Demon Bass Fishing Rod has elite carbon blanks and nano resin technology. This feature is quite beneficial because it means that that it can tackle blank graphite rods easily.
More on that, it makes the rod, which means you can use it for a long time without getting tired. Besides that, it makes it easy for you to carry it when going for your fishing expenditure. The nano resin system makes it one of the most sensitive fishing rod on the market today.
Other Features and Benefits
The rod comes with fuji guides plus WINN grips and fuji reel seats, which ensure that your reel stays steadily in its place. You get 15 lengths and actions with this Kastking Pro Tournament Series Speed Demon Bass Fishing Rods.
It is constructed with a blend of high-quality graphite and S-glass, which makes it sturdy and durable. You just need to make sure you keep tightening the line guide with this option, but apart from that, this fishing rod by Kastking has a great reputation and an aesthetic finish.
Pros
- Beautiful finish
- Quite versatile
- High quality and Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Produces noise after using it for long
7. KastKing Telescope Blackhawk II Fishing Rods
Our eighth, seventh item is the KastKing Telescope Blackhawk II Fishing Rods. The rods perform well on water because it has excellent balance and smooth casting abilities. Let’s take a look at the rod’s features and benefits.
Product Description
The KastKing Telescope Blackhawk II Fishing Rods available in fourteen different actions and lengths so you can easily find the right match for your style of fishing. This rod is designed for serious anglers who are searching for a collapsible setup.
You will find lightweight options, dainty poles are also available, and then there are heavy-duty rods for casting heavy tackle to larger. Another good thing is that this model has impressive ratings for its great casting and sensitivity.
Other Features and Benefits
KastKing Telescope Blackhawk II Fishing Rods contains a carbon matrix blank, which makes it sturdy and durable. Though sturdy, it is flexible enough to function effectively in any type of fishing. It can be used in saltwater and freshwater without having to worry about it breaking or rusting.
After adjusting the length, you don’t need to re-rig it, which makes it easy to setup. When it comes to use, the unit features a comfortable EVA handle so you can use it for a long time without your hands getting tired.
Being easy to set up and exceptionally durable, the KastKing Telescope Blackhawk II Fishing Rods is one of the best rods out there. The only thing we did not like about this rod is that its eyelets tend to rotate when angling constantly.
Pros
- Attractive design
- Single piece construction
- Excellent casting abilities
- Sturdy reel seat
Cons
- Eyelets may rotate
8. St Croix Premier Spinning Rods
St Croix is well known for developing rods that are well-made, provide high quality, and ideal for both professionals and novice. This St Croix Premier Spinning rod is no different, as we will see in the review below.
Product Description
This particular model is made with new technology, so it’s not just an ordinary fishing rod. However, what makes this rod an ideal option is the fact that it comes in multiple sizes with different speeds and different power ratings.
So it is ideal for any angler who’s searching for a brand new fishing rod. In addition, the St Croix Premier Spinning Rod is suitable for professionals, beginners, and also intermediate anglers.
Other Features and Benefits
St Croix Premier Spinning Rods is built with premium-grade graphite, which is high quality and is one of the best materials used in making all types of rods. Furthermore, it is incredibly strong yet lightweight, so you won’t get tired when carrying it around.
The material also helps to improve the rod’s sensitivity making it an ideal choice, especially when an angler needs extra sensitivity when fishing. Additionally, it has guides that are made of aluminum oxide, which further makes it strong and also helps to reduce friction.
Also, the handle is built from high-quality cork, so it can withstand heavy-duty usage, and you can also use it for all types of weather conditions. Some customers have reported that they received their St Croix Premier Spinning Rod with some damages on the handle, which did not affect the rod’s overall performance.
Pros
- Comes in different sizes
- Lightweight
- Durable construction
- Handcrafted Design
Cons
- Too sensitive
9. Entsport Camo Legend 2-piece E Series Baitcasting Fishing Rod
The Entsport Camo Legend 2-piece E Series Baitcasting Fishing Rod is a bit pricier than most of the items on this list, but it provides you with quality features that justify its price. Check out this detailed review to get a better understanding of the rod.
Product Description
First of all, the Entsport Camo Legend 2-piece E Series Baitcasting Fishing Rod comes professional yet unique design. It has two tips, which means you are getting two power rod tips. There is the medium-heavy, and the other one is medium.
This great feature makes this unit versatile. It is suitable for carrying a single rod, and in case you accidentally break its base section, you don’t need to panic because you will have an additional tip with you. It is advisable to have spare tips for replacement and varied fishing action.
Other Features and Benefits
Entsport Camo Legend 2-piece E Series Baitcasting Fishing Rod is made of carbon fiber, which makes it extremely lightweight but also offers it adequate strength. Additionally, the carbon fiber design maintains sensitivity and also helps to increase its strength.
Moreover, it is fitted with a reel seat that is constructed from rust and corrosion-proof aluminum hoods so it can be used in both freshwater and saltwater. It also has a smooth touch finish and comes with “FINESSE” 6 and “K-R” corrosion-resistant guides for improved casting performance and frictionless flow.
Also worth noting is that this model contains high-density EVA handles that provided durability and optimum sensitivity, thus making your fishing experience super easy and comfortable. Unlike our previous option, the Entsport Camo Legend 2-piece E Series Baitcasting Fishing Rod is a bit difficult to asset up and may take time.
Pros
- Durable
- Corrosion resistant
- Lightweight yet strong
- High-quality construction
Cons
- Lacks a hook keeper
10. KastKing Reel Combo and Crixus Fishing Rod
Another Kastking rod on this list is the KastKing Reel Combo and Crixus Fishing Rod. This option is not only well constructed, but it is also easy to set up and maintain. It is a great option quite beneficial for a beginner who wants something that’s durable and economical.
Product Description
KastKing Reel Combo and Crixus Fishing Rod is constructed with long-lasting IM6 graphite that makes it sensitive and lightweight. This means you don’t have to worry about your getting fatigued while fishing. In addition, it makes it portable and easy to carry around.
This might not be the best fishing rod for catching extremely bid fish but is quite effective for medium and small-sized bass. KastKing Reel Combo and Crixus Fishing Rod have stainless steel guides, which further makes it durable and helps in offering smooth.
Though this unit is a two-piece, it features the power transition system, which makes it feel like a single piece.
Other Features and Benefits
KastKing Reel Combo and Crixus Fishing Rod have an aluminum spool, double-shielded ball bearings, and carbon drags for enhancing its performance. On top of that, this unit comes in multiple power ratings, so you can suit one that best suits your fishing type.
Another notable feature is that this model features a super polymer handle that is a durable, super comfortable, and exceptionally anti-slip. This offers you optimum control and grip over your rod even in the wettest conditions.
Pros
- High quality
- Lightweight
- Smooth
- Great for casting
Cons
- Not ideal for larger fish
11. St Croix Mojo Bass Spinning Rod
The St Croix Mojo Bass Spinning Rod is quite lightweight hence offering a great balance when fishing. This option also has a great look and is a great choice for all types of anglers. To know more about the rod read on!
Product Description
The eyelet guides are constructed from durable and strong aluminum oxide. Additionally, they are corrosion resistant, which prevents them from rusting as the years go by. This helps to keep the structure strong and durable.
Other Features and Benefits
St Croix Mojo Bass Spinning Rod is lightweight and durable, so you can use it for a long time without getting fatigued. Besides that, it is quite sensitive, which makes it easy to fell even the smallest fish on your line.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Beautiful look
- Comfortable on the hand
- Durable
Cons
- A bit stiff
- Its line guides could have been better made
12. Cadence CR6B Fast Action Baitcasting Fishing Rod
Our last item is the Cadence CR6B Fast Action Baitcasting Fishing Rod. Cadence is a less known brand compared to other brands on this list, but that does not mean it is less when it comes to quality and performance.
Product Description
Cadence CR6B Fast Action Baitcasting Fishing Rod is a great casting rod for more advanced anglers and beginners. The great thing is that it is available in multiple sizes, which allows you to select the size that suits you best.
Other Features and Benefits
This might not be the cheapest option out there, but the quality ratio is higher than the price. In addition, this Cadence CR6B Fast Action Baitcasting Fishing Rod is made of 30-ton graphite, making it durable and lightweight. Finally, it has stainless steel eyelets that prevent it from corroding and rusting if properly maintained.
Pros
- Multiple sizes
- Lightweight
- Durable
- High quality
Cons
- A bit pricey
Buying Guide for Best Bass Fishing Rods
We want to take you through the important factors that you need to consider when looking to buy the best bass fishing rods. They include:
Your Level of Expertise
Most beginners in angling prefer to use spinning rods and reels. Why? Because they are easier to maintain, handle, and will hardly tangle even if they are not properly cast.
With the rise of new technology, there are now options like the braided fishing line that is smaller and durable.
What this means for you as an angler is that you can use a stronger line on a spinning reel since the line is smaller. Of course, if you hook a fish that is too large, you risk breaking the eyelets.
You can always target larger bass fish as long as your rod can endure the force. If you are a beginner at angling, we still recommend sticking to a spinning rod.
If you have more experience in the field, you have more options to choose from including a casting rod and reel.
Fishing Site
Where do you plan to fish? If it is in a wide-open water body,then it does not matter if you choose a spinning rod or casting rod.
However, if you will be doing offshore fishing, you will have to cast in particular areas and this necessitates the use of a casting rod.
This is because when used correctly, casting rods are more accurate compared to spinning rods. Moreover, if you need to cast your line further away from your boat, the casting rod will work better.
Simply put, casting rods are better for hitting spots that are further away and have a higher level of accuracy hence making them the best option if you are looking for precision.
Category of Bass
Bass fish fall into the category of large fish species and spinning rods do not do much when it comes to catching large fish.
If you are targeting small mouth bass and you are sure they will not be too large, you can go ahead and use either type of reel and rod.
However, if your aim is to catch large mouth bass, or large striped bass, we highly recommend using a casting rod.
Tips for Catching Bass
Targeting bass is not the easiest thing to do for an angler, but we have several tips here that can help you be more precise with your target.
Look out for Cover
Where there is cover, you expect to find bass. These fish tend to take cover boat docks, rocks, grass, and whatever else you may think of.
As you fish, you need to lookout for such things to increase your chances of catching this particular fish. Of course, they can roam out in the open but it will not be easy to locate them that way.
Use Lures that Mimic their Prey
Bass fish prey on different things from bluegill to shad. It would therefore make sense to use a lure that looks like their prey.
We recommend using a silver-colored swim bait or crank bait if your targeted bass feeds on shad.
Be Open-minded
The most successful anglers are always willing to try new ideas and fishing methods. This calls for you to experiment with everything from waters to fishing equipment and make it a continuous process.
Understand the Relationship between Bass and the Weather
You want to be awareas to how bass fish behave under different weather conditions. For instance, bass are more active when it is cloudy so expect them to come out in large numbers for purposes of feeding.
On the other hand, these fish will stay under cover when the weather is hot. By knowing such facts, you will be able to know when the best time to fish is.
Be Mindful of Water Temperatures
Depending on what time of year it is, temperatures can vary significantly from one place to another. The feeding pattern and activity level of bass also relies on water temperature.
Use slower moving baits when water temperatures are cooler and faster moving ones when temperatures are warmer.
Understand the Impact of Wind on Bass Fishing
You will realize that when wind blows harder, it becomes harder to fish but that should not stop you from participating in your favorite hobby or catching that bass that you so badly want to eat.
Did you know that wind actually stimulates bass and encourages them to come out of hiding? Besides, the commotion on the water surface caused by windacts as some sort of camouflage for your moving boat making it easier for you to catch the fish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We know you have a question or two in respect to this topic and rightfully so. We answer a few below that we believe can be of some help.
Which is best for bass fishing? Casting rod or spinning rod?
If you are a beginner, we would recommend a spinning rod. Casting rods are perfect for anglers with more experienceand those that want more precision when casting.
Casting rods also work better of you are targeting large fish and since bass fall under that category, we recommend casting rods.
Should I go for a shorter or longer rod?
It depends on the size of fish you are targeting. Shorter rods are ideal for smaller fish because they are more sensitive and allow you to feel smaller bites.
Longerrods provide more flex and casting distance for reeling in larger fish.
What is the best rod size for bass fishing?
The best size would be a 7 1/2-foot rod. Why? It allows for easier pitching of baits.
Which One Is The Best?
There’s something beautiful about Kastking’s workmanship. This is evident even when you look at the KastKing Perigee II O-Ring Line Fishing Rods overall construction, aesthetics, and quality. That’s why we’d like to rank it as our top favorite choice on this best bass fishing rods list.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to go about the buying process for bass fishing rods, nothing should stop you from doing it.
You can always refer to this guide when in doubt.