Surf Fishing Rods Compared

Why Surf Fishing Requires Specific Rods

When you are surf fishing, there are some unique obstacles you have to overcome to land a fish. The biggest challenges are distance and the force of crashing waves. Surf fishing rods have been designed to meet these barriers head-on.

These rods are often longer to allow for further casting, and they are also strong for throwing heavy terminal tackle that can overcome waves and land that big fish. Often, because of their size, these rods are meant to be stuck down into rod holders in the sand or run off of a fighting belt, so their butt end is built to accommodate that too.

Surf Fishing Rod Buyer’s Guide

Build/Frame Quality

The build and frame quality of a rod will determine how it performs. Most rods are made of either graphite, fiberglass, or a composite of the two. This is where it gets complicated though. Even a rod advertised as being made of just graphite requires more scrutiny.

For example, how many layers of graphite were used, and what is the quality of the build? When shopping, keep in mind that fiberglass rods are generally cheaper and more durable than graphite, but graphite rods are lighter, more sensitive, and have a faster action.   

Casting Distance

Casting distance is a product of rod length. Shorter rods in the 7-10 feet range won't cast as far, but they will be more accurate and provide greater leverage on big fish. Longer rods in the 11-15 feet range will cast further and keep your line out of the surf. These longer rods are heavier, though, and provide you with less leverage on a catch.

Target Species & Size

Your target species and size is the first thing you need to consider before buying a surf rod. The key question is, will you need a rod for big fish? If you don't have a particular fish size or species in mind, that is perfectly fine too. In that case, you might prefer a versatile middle of the road rod that can handle most fishing scenarios.

Preferred Baits or Lures

Flexibility & Sensitivity

Flexibility and sensitivity are a product of the rod material and length. Good quality graphite rods are usually the most sensitive but also have a faster action, which means they are less flexible. Shorter rods also tend to be more sensitive yet less flexible. A fast action is often good for helping to quickly set a hook on the bite while longer, more flexible rods are great for longer casts.

Rod Length & Weight

As discussed, rod length primarily determines casting distance and accuracy. A longer rod will cast further but with less accuracy while a shorter rod will do the opposite. Length can also play a role in the sensitivity and action of the rod.

As far as weight is concerned, graphite rods are the lightest, but they are also less durable and more expensive. Balancing length and weight is a matter of preference and personal need. 

Rod Action & Power

A rod’s action refers to where the rod bends under pressure. This is known as the speed of the rod with fast rods bending close to the tip and quickly stopping the bend and slow rods bending all the way near the grip. Fast rods quickly set hooks and are more sensitive to bites. To check the action of a rod yourself, just secure the butt of the rod and bend the tip, you'll see where it starts to give.

The power of the rod, also known as its weight, refers to how much pressure the rod can take before it bends. You can have two fast action rods, but one is light and the other is heavy, meaning it will take a lot more force to bend the heavy rod in the same place as the light rod. A medium to medium-heavy rod is your best choice if you don't have a particular species in mind. Otherwise, you'll want to pick something appropriate for what you are fishing.

Other Features

There are other features you should consider, as well. Check that the reel seat is sturdy and well built, that the rod guides are strong and straight, and that the handle (probably either cork or EVA foam) is a size and material you'll be comfortable handling.

Also, check if the rod comes as one piece or two. Many rods are two pieces that you have to fit together, but not everyone is comfortable with the durability or reliability of that kind of construction. 

Price & Warranty

Once you know a rod has all the features you want and need, you can check its value for the money. Sometimes paying a little extra is worth it, and you'll regret not doing so down the road. The rule of thumb is to buy what suits your needs.

There are some excellent $40 fiberglass rods out there, and there is nothing wrong with going that route. You should also look into the warranty provided with whatever rod you are considering. Some companies offer excellent guarantees that make a higher price tag very worth it.

9 Best Surf Fishing Rods Reviewed

Surf fishing requires the right equipment if you want to bring home a catch. Watch our video and read our reviews below to get the best rod for your beach fishing adventures.

1. Okuma Longitude LC-C-1202H-1

The Okuma Longitude LC-C-1202H-1 is our top pick for the best surf fishing rod because it boasts excellent functionality and construction.

The rod itself is very sensitive to each bite because it is made of a graphite composite that transmits vibration and motion. The aluminum oxide guide inserts, double footed stainless steel guide frame, and stainless steel hooded reel seat all contribute to the strength and durability of the rod.

It is comfortable to handle too with a cork wrapped non-slip fore and rear grips and a Pac Bay rubber butt cap that prevents slippage. All of this comes together to make one solid, functional, and easy to handle rod that can land the fish your after.

With a good price, a limited lifetime warranty, and a versatility and durability that far exceeds other rods, this rod was an easy choice for our top pick for best surf fishing rod.     

2. Penn Spinfisher V & VI

3. BERRYPRO

The BERRYPRO Monster Surf Fishing Spinning Rod would be a great rod at three to four times the price, so the fact that you can get it so cheaply is almost a steal. It is the best surf fishing rod for anyone on a budget and not wanting to break the bank. 

The rod is constructed with IM7 X-Carbon technology blanks, which make it very sensitive and powerful. The guides are enhanced stainless steel with ceramic rings to make casting more smooth. The guides are also precisely aligned along the bottom of the spine of the blank to minimize friction between the line and the guide so any cast will transfer from your hand to the tackle seamlessly.

The rod is outfitted with a high-strength reel seat, high-density EVA grips, non-slip shrink tube design, textured carbon fiber rod surface, and an anti-wear rubber butt cap for comfort and stability. This is a rod that has been meticulously planned out and constructed so that you get maximum functionality out of it for the lowest price possible.

The manufacturers make a point to highlight that "Quality, durability, affordability" are what they are all about. That is their focus, and it shines through in this rod.

4. Okuma’s Solaris SS-C-1102H-2

The Okuma Solaris SS-C-1102H-2 is a rod that performs well for surf fishing and especially pier fishing. Its IM-6 graphite blank construction makes it sensitive and powerful enough for most fish species, while the Fuji aluminum oxide guide inserts contribute to the overall durability of the construction. 

Stainless steel double footed guide frames bolster the aluminum oxide inserts for stable and true guides ensuring each cast flows smoothly and accurately. Finally, the cork wrapped non-slip fore and rear grips offer that traditional sure grip that many anglers are accustomed to. This is the second Okuma rod to warrant a spot on this list because Okuma is one of those tried and true brands that has become synonymous with quality.

The Solaris line of rods, in particular, are known for their strength sporting some of the most powerful actions in the Okuma surf rod lineup. Reviews speak for themselves with people saying this Okuma fishing rod has great backbone or loading up on those 3 to 5 ounces of weight that is being launched to the open surf, and the action and distance with this rod is fantastic. 

5. PLUSINNO

The PLUSINNO surf fishing rod is almost like a piece of equipment from the future. As a rod and reel combination on its own, it is great for surf fishing, especially for beginners. However, this rod has a trick up its sleeve: it is fully telescopic.

Constructed as a single expanding and contracting unit, this rod can be condensed for transport and then telescoped out when you are ready to cast. The telescopic rod also comes equipped with a quality spinning reel. The rod itself is a high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass making it sturdy and durable even with all its moving parts.

This powerful rod also comes with a stainless steel hooded reel seat that is anti-corrosive and an EVA foregrip for comfort. The included reel has instant anti-reverse with power drive gears equipped for high strength.  

The reel also has a thick coiled bail spring and an s-curve oscillation system for optimal line winding. This great value combination also comes with other equipment included when you buy it. You get a nice carrier bag, a spool of fishing line, and a small case with a selection of fishing lures. With just this kit alone, you could start surf fishing!

6. Fiblink

The Fiblink travel fishing rod is made from a sturdy solid carbon fiber construction that lends it the sensitivity and performance you need under pressure. Stainless steel and ceramic make up the guides so that lines flow smoothly with minimal friction for longer, more accurate casts.

This is helped by the fact that the guides are precisely aligned along the bottom of the spine of the blank. The non-slip rubber shrink tube handle with tapered rear grip provides a solid hold on the rod under any conditions, and the reel seat is built in stainless steel with tapered hood transitions above and below the reel seat protecting cap. 

This rods design philosophy is based on a robust and powerful performance. The Fiblink is made so that you can take it with you on the go. It is durable enough to withstand travel, a full day's fishing, more travel, and repeat. It is also made to handle many different fishing styles.

Fiblink makes a powerful, fast action rod that holds up against tough fish in harsh environments. Borrowing again from Fiblink this cost-effective rod is all about “Powerful actions for big surf duty.”     

7. Okuma CSX-S-1102MH Cedros

Here we are with another Okuma making the list. These rods just don't quit, and their quality speaks for itself. The Okuma CSX-S-1102MH Cedros is a tough rod and earned our spot as the most durable rod against saltwater. As any angler very well knows saltwater is pernicious and over time, it can eat away at your gear if you aren't careful.

This rod benefits from its 30-Ton carbon, ultra-sensitive and responsive blank construction and ALPS stainless steel double footed guide frames, which make it so durable. Other features like the non-slip rubber shrink tube handle with tapered rear grip and the ALPS blazing Zirconium guide inserts complete the rod. 

This rod was tested with extreme saltwater conditions in mind. The stainless steel used in the rod delivers incredible corrosion-resistance by having been tested over 1200 hours (50 days) of continuous salt spray and emerging completely corrosion-free. It is this level of attention and commitment to quality that makes Okuma rods so reliable.

8. Tsunami Airwave Elite

This elite rod holds up against all types of fish and all styles of fishing. It is a versatile and well-constructed rod that earns and maintains its status. If high-end fishing gear is your preference, then the Tsunami Airwave Elite is the way to go.

9. Shimano Tiralejo

The Shimano Tiralejo is a long casting rod through and through. Actually, that’s what tiralejo means in Spanish, to cast far. The rod was designed as part of Shimano’s Long Cast Concept. The actions and guide settings of the Tiralejo series were designed to match perfectly with the Shimano Ultegra XTD and Ultegra Ci4+ surf reels.

The rod itself takes advantage of Shimano's all-new C4S blank construction, which utilizes a high modulus blank and wraps four outer layers of 90-degree graphite. This technique increases the hoop strength for maximum pulling power while maintaining sensitivity.

The Tiralejo series has also been designed to use the PowerPro Line which has approximately 5 times the strength of a Monofilament line of the same diameter, while also lacking the stretching qualities. This all comes together to improve the experience of the fisherman.

The rod has a Fuji® reel seat with Fuji Alconite guides as well. It’s all these little features that come together and make anglers realize that this rod is a great choice. The rod easily adds 20-30 yards to your cast.

Surf Fishing Rod Setup

How To Use Surf Fishing Rods - Tips & Techniques

Your main goal when using a surf fishing rod is to land your bait or lure in or past the surf as best as possible. This is just like your regular casting style but with an emphasis on distance. A simple overhead cast using both arms is your best method for getting the best cast, and with time and practice, you'll achieve greater distances.

To do this, just open your bail, place a finger on the line to secure it, hold the rod in both hands, bend your arms to bring the rod tip slightly over your shoulders and then flick the pole forward quickly releasing your finger from the line as you do so.

This will send your bait or lure flying out towards the surf. Once it lands where you want, just flip the bail back over, and you are ready to reel in when you get a bite. Check out this great first-person tutorial if you want to see how it is done. 

Practice this a few times, and you will quickly become proficient. Remember, longer poles will get you longer casts, but so will practice. Also, keep in mind that wind conditions will affect the distance and accuracy of your cast. 

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Does a longer rod cast further?

Yes, generally speaking, a longer rod will cast further than a shorter rod. Rod length isn't the only factor affecting casting distance, though. The weight of your terminal tackle can help or hinder your cast as can the strength and direction of the wind. Experience also plays a part in this because of the subtle nuances of body mechanics and casting technique coming into play.   

What are the best surf fishing rod holders? What about for trucks?

What size reel should I get for surf fishing?

You can use a wide range of reel sizes for surf fishing so the answer, in short, is go with what you have. Generally, though many experienced anglers recommend around a 5000-6000 size reel for surf fishing because of the line capacity. You might not start out using its full potential, but with practice, you might. 

How should I cut bait for surf fishing?

When is it best to choose surfcasting fishing rods over a spincast rod?

A spincast rod is basically a casting rod fitted with a spincast reel. This is a basic setup that is best suited for easy fishing. This is often what new kids and new anglers learn to fish with. It would not hold up to the long casting or harsh saltwater conditions of surf fishing. A surfcasting rod, on the other hand, is equipped for a spinning reel and is usually longer to assist in those long casts that are necessary to get over the surf.

Are there any special maintenance steps for keeping my rod in good condition?

The biggest enemy of all surf fishing equipment is salt water and sand. After every outing, make sure to wash down all of your gear with fresh water and then lightly oil any moving parts. Occasionally check the guides as well to make sure that none are bent or twisted. This can eventually lead to them breaking or snagging your line. 

How do I clean and store my surf fishing rod?

Who makes the best surf fishing rods, and where can I buy them?

Some of the best surf fishing rod manufacturers are featured in this review, like Okuma, for instance, who took our number one spot as well as a couple of other positions on this list. The best place to buy these brand's products is through Amazon. You can easily check reviews and see what other experienced anglers think about the equipment.    

Conclusion