best lightweight
Our #1 Choice
best for bass fishing
Fishing requires both a rod and reel, and the type matters. Baitcasting rods are great for heavier and larger fish because the reel is placed on top, which gives the angler better control over casting.
It also helps anglers maintain control while fighting a strong fish. Read on to find the right baitcaster for you at an affordable price.
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Baitcasting Rods Under $50 Compared
Preview | Model | Rod Length | Line Weight | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
KastKing Perigee II | 6’6” | 10-17 Lbs. | ||
Piscifun Torrent | 6’9” | 10-20 Lbs. | ||
Entsport E Series Rattlesnake 2 | 7’ | 6-14 Lbs. | ||
KastKing Blackhawk II | 7’1” | 10-20 Lbs. | ||
Abu Garcia Vengeance | 7’ | 10-20 Lbs. |
A Quick Guide to Baitcasting Rods
A baitcasting rod is designed to sit on top of the reel. This gives the angler more control when working with a fighting fish or heavier fish. It keeps the eyelets from getting pulled off despite the pressure from the fish on the line.
Baitcasting rods are great for power bass fishing and for catching heavier fish such as salmon, catfish, or other large saltwater fish. Make sure that your baitcasting rod has a sturdy handle for a firm grip. Baitcasting rods tend to be more difficult to cast than spinning rods, so beginners will have to practice.
Before heading out to fish, read over our guide on how to get started fishing. Knowledge is critical when it comes to handling powerful fish with your new baitcasting rod.
Choosing a Quality Baitcasting Rod Under $50
Rod Material Composition
Fiberglass rods are less expensive than graphite rods. Fiberglass rods are also more durable; however, they are also more lightweight. Anglers who intend to use a baitcaster rod and hunt for heavier fish species will probably prefer a graphite rod if they can afford one.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
Most anglers prefer a one-piece baitcasting rod; however, the two-piece baitcasting rod is great for anglers who intend to fish from the bank. We recommend the one-piece baitcasting rod for most anglers who intend to fish in various places as well as from boats.
Fishing Environment
Baitcaster rods are great for both saltwater and freshwater environments. However, freshwater rods will not work in saltwater, while saltwater rods will work in freshwater areas. Most baitcaster rods tend to be geared towards saltwater use because saltwater rods hold heavier lines. We recommend choosing a baitcasting rod for the environment you plan to fish in the most.
Rod Length
Most baitcasting rods are approximately five to eight feet long. When choosing a baitcasting rod length, we recommend first deciding where you plan to fish. If you are going to be making short casts in areas around docks or other confined spaces, then you will want a shorter rod. However, if you plan to cast on the open water, then you will want a longer rod.
Casting Distance/Accuracy
Baitcasting rods perform well when it comes to casting distance and accuracy. Longer rods will offer greater casting distance, while shorter rods will provide better accuracy. However, with practice, anglers can cast accurately with longer rods as well. Choose based on where you plan to fish (open water look for longer rods, shorter confined spaces look for shorter rods).
Rod Action & Power
Baitcasting rods are ideally suited for heavy fish; therefore, it makes the most sense to choose a rod with a bit of weight. We recommend looking at medium, medium heavy, and heavy baitcasting rods. More experienced anglers may take an ultra-light or light baitcasting rod because they have experience with pulling in heavy fish on a lightweight rod.
Line Weight & Line Guides
Choose a heavier line weight for your baitcasting rod. Heavier line weights will perform better with the rod and help you reel in powerful fish. Check for lines that have low friction for a smoother cast when fishing.
Handle/Grip
All baitcasting rods come with a handle or grip. Consider how comfortable and ergonomic the handle is in comparison to other models. Fishing all day can be tiring, and a comfortable and ergonomic handle can go a long way towards making your fishing experience enjoyable.
Price & Warranty
Baitcasting rods come in various prices from under $50 to $200+. The warranty on each rod varies, but typically longer warranties are attached to more expensive rods. Consider the value for your money when purchasing a new rod by evaluating both the cost of the baitcasting rod as well as its warranty.
5 Best Baitcasting Rods Under $50 Reviewed
These are the best cheap models for baitcaster rods.
Read our reviews below or watch our YouTube video to find the top rod for your requirements.
1. KastKing Perigee II
best baitcasting rod under $50
Rod Length | 6’6” |
Line Weight | 10-17 Lbs. |
Handle Type | Full grip |
Material | Carbon fiber |
One Piece Or Two Piece | Two piece |
Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
The KastKing Perigee II is the best baitcasting rod under $50 on our list. This baitcasting rod is built with 24-ton carbon fiber for reliability, power, and strength. The rod comes with Fuji O-ring line guides, which ensure that your line stays in place during difficult reels. This baitcasting rod has a medium weight and power, which is perfect for catching bass and catfish.
The rod has a comfortable ergonomic handle design that makes it easy to grip and maintain grip even while struggling with fighting fish. The connection between both of these pieces is perfect for someone who wants the power of one rod, but the flexibility of two rods. The power transition system on these rods operates smoothly, so casts are gentle and long.
Chris wrote on KastKing,
This rod is awesome! Very comfortable in your hands and for the price you can’t beat it. Paired it with a KastKing Megatron for saltwater fishing. Feels like some of my high end gear but at an affordable price.
This double rod set does not come with a case for storage, though. Anglers have also said that the tip is prone to breakage on these rods, so we recommend handling the end of the rod with care. The KastKing Perigee II comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which protects anglers from defective rods.
Pros
Cons
2. Piscifun Torrent
best lightweight baitcasting rod under $50
Rod Length | 6’9” |
Line Weight | 10-20 Lbs. |
Handle Type | Split grips |
Material | Graphite and Fiberglass composite |
One Piece Or Two Piece | Two piece |
Warranty | Yes, one-year limited warranty |
The Piscifun Torrent is the best lightweight baitcasting rod under $50. The 6’9” two piece medium set is our favorite of the group because it has the perfect balance between medium and heavy for bass fishing. The EVA ergonomic split grip is comfortable to hold and lightweight so your arm won’t tire after a long day of casting.
Two different options for holding on the rod and getting a strong grip. The stainless steel guides keep your line in place while you fish. An anti-line twist tip is affixed to the end to help with casting distance. This baitcasting rod also has a safe hook keeper, which makes it easy to hook baits and also keeps the hook out of harm’s way when not fishing.
Harry wrote on Piscifun,
The torrent rod is strong and sensitive. Great products, the reel is a beast.
Anglers have noted that this rod tends to break at the joint over time. This is a typical wear and tear issue that may be found in other rods as well. Taking care of the rod and storing it properly after use can help avoid this problem. The Piscifun baitcasting rod comes with a one-year limited warranty. This is not a long warranty but is standard for baitcasting rods at this low price point.
Pros
Cons
3. Entsport E Series Rattlesnake 2
best baitcasting rod for bass fishing
Rod Length | 7’ |
Line Weight | 6-14 Lbs. |
Handle Type | Split grip |
Material | Graphite |
One Piece Or Two Piece | Two Piece |
Warranty | Yes, one-year limited warranty |
The Entsport E Series Rattlesnake 2 is the best baitcasting rod for bass fishing on our list. This baitcasting rod is made out of graphite, which makes it one of the strongest rods on this list. This baitcasting rod is also long at 7 feet and is perfect for experienced anglers who want to cast long.
Three different tips are included with this rod, which makes it more customizable than any other rod on our list. This is also great if a tip breaks because it can be easily replaced. A stainless steel guide keeps all lines in place. The guide system eliminates friction for a smooth cast. The split-grip cork handles are comfortable and easy to hold while fishing.
Anglers have reported that this pole can break at the joint over time. This issue usually occurs with rods over a significant period and is a common issue when it comes to wear and tear. Unfortunately, this rod only has a one-year limited warranty that is unlikely to cover a futuristic break.
That said, most baitcasting rods in this price range have a one-year limited warranty. We recommend this rod for anglers who want a graphite rod with three different tip options for customizable fishing at an affordable price.
Pros
Cons
4. KastKing Blackhawk II
best telescopic baitcaster under $50
Rod Length | 7’1” |
Line Weight | 10-20 Lbs. |
Handle Type | Full grip |
Material | Carbon and graphite |
One Piece Or Two Piece | One piece |
Warranty | Yes, limited lifetime warranty |
The KastKing Blackhawk II is the best telescopic baitcaster under $50. This baitcasting rod is long at 7’1” and perfect for anglers who want to cast far. The carbon and graphite rod is powerful and durable. There are multiple floating lines on this model to ensure that each cast is friction-free and smooth. The telescopic rod is portable and can easily be moved.
You won’t need to re-rig this rod. Simply retract the rod into itself and expand it later on. Stainless steel line guides keep heavy lines in place. The EVA handle is soft yet firm and remains comfortable after a long day out on the boat. A hook holder keeps anglers safe by providing a safe place to store the hook. This model also comes in a clean black aesthetic with gold touches, which is a nice option for anglers who want a professional style baitcasting rod.
Dylan wrote on KastKing,
I got this rod and it is the best thing ever, easy to use and very durable for bigger fish. It is very easy to carry around. I ride my bike to the lake and it is easy to hold.
This baitcasting rod also comes with KastKing’s limited lifetime warranty. Anglers have noted that the handle is long and smaller hands may find it frustrating to fish with this particular rod. Other anglers have said that although this is a telescopic travel model, the rod is sensitive to quickly collapsing.
In other words, it is important to be gentle when collapsing the rod to avoid breaking it. Anglers who want a more durable telescopic model will need to pay significantly more. We recommend this model to anglers who want a travel baitcasting rod at an affordable price.
Pros
Cons
5. Abu Garcia Vengeance
best entry level baitcasting rod under $50
Rod Length | 7’ |
Line Weight | 10-20 Lbs. |
Handle Type | Full grip |
Material | Graphite |
One Piece Or Two Piece | One piece |
Warranty | Yes, one-year limited warranty |
The Abu Garcia Vengeance is the best entry level baitcasting rod under $50. This baitcasting rod is made out of graphite, the most durable material available for fishing rods. The graphite construction makes it possible for the rod to handle powerful fish while still maintaining a fairly lightweight feel. Stainless steel guides protect the line and allow for medium heavy pressure.
Many users like the metallic coloring on this rod because it is easy-to-see and stands out from other rods. The full grip handle is made out of EVA material for reliability and comfort. Anglers have said that they really like the feel of casting with this rod because it is smooth and steady. This rod also has a hook keeper to safely store your hook when not fishing.
Alex remarked on Abu Garcia,
I recently bought the vengeance rod to combine with my pro max. I love how flawless the rod feels. The new design compared to last year’s design is unbelievable. I am very happy with the rod.
Unfortunately, some anglers have said that their tips have snapped after repeated use while fishing. A solution to this problem would be to reattach new tips. This baitcasting rod comes with a one-year limited warranty. This is a wonderful rod for anglers who want a medium heavy baitcasting rod with a graphite build.
Pros
Cons
Baitcasting Rod Vs. Other Fishing Rods
Baitcasting rods are the best choice for anglers who plan to fish for bass or catch more substantial fish. Baitcasting rods place the baitcasting reel on top, which makes it easier to fight fish. These rods are also designed to hold heavier lines and have strong handles.
Spinning rods are meant to be paired with lighter lines and have smaller, more compact handles. Spinning rods are lighter in general and are best for smaller fish. Both baitcasting rods and spinning rods are comparable in price.
Baitcasting Tips for Beginners
Choosing a line for your baitcasting reel is essential and where we recommend beginning. Most baitcasting reels do best with a heavier line (15-18lb). Heavier lines are easier to cast, which is something that most beginner baitcasters struggle to do correctly.
Once you have set-up your reel and rod with guided lines (and attach a lure), it’s time to make adjustments. Press on the thumb release to let the line fall. Check how your lure falls to the floor. Does it fall gently, not at all, or quickly? The goal is for the lure to fall gently to the ground. Make adjustments until you achieve this type of fall with your lure.
Once this is done, you are ready to begin casting on open water. Try casting with a sidearm throw and an overhead throw. Both work and the optimal method comes down to personal preference. As you cast out, make sure you hold the line and wait to release it until you reach the halfway point of your casting arc. Baitcasting is more difficult than spinning techniques and will require practice to make perfect.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Does a longer rod cast further?
Yes, a longer rod will cast further than a shorter rod. Even if the difference is only a ½ foot, the cast will still be longer on the longer rod. However, some anglers prefer shorter rods because they are more manageable. The best rod choice depends on the type of fish you plan to catch.
What are the best-rated casting rod brands under $50?
The best-rated casting rod brands under $50 are Abu, KastKing, Piscifun, Entsport, Shakespeare, and Shimano. You can find all of these brands on Amazon.
Do bass fishermen use baitcasters?
Yes, bass fishers typically use baitcasters. Baitcasters are best for heavier fish, and bass is a heavier fish. Most professional bass anglers use baitcasters, but will occasionally use spinning tackle and light crankbaits.
Can I put any casting reel onto any casting rod?
You can; however, we do not recommend putting a baitcaster on a spinning rod. Spinning reels are bigger compared to baitcaster rods and therefore have different line sizes. To learn more check out this video by TackleJunky81.
How do you stop backlash on a baitcaster?
The best way to stop backlash on a baitcaster is to adjust the brake system as well as the spool. Then, try a cast and see if you experience any backlash. Continue adjusting and casting until you like the rod’s response.
Conclusion
Purchase your baitcasting rod today and begin fighting those powerful fish out on the open water. Our top pick for your bass fishing, catfish fishing, and powerful saltwater and freshwater fishing needs is the KastKing Perigee II.
This two piece baitcasting rod is strong, sturdy, and made with carbon fiber. It is durable and comes with a limited lifetime warranty while remaining under the $50 price point.