10 Best Baitcasting Rods 2026 in the United States

The G Loomis NRX+ 853C JWR is a 7'1" baitcasting rod designed mainly for bass fishing, featuring a medium-heavy power rating and fast action. This combination makes it versatile enough to handle a range of lures, especially jigs and worms, allowing for good control and sensitivity when casting and retrieving. The rod uses a blend material, likely combining strength and lightweight properties, which helps reduce fatigue during longer fishing sessions.

Its handle is made of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) with a split grip design, offering a comfortable and secure hold that suits various casting styles. The rod supports line weights between 17-25 pounds, making it suitable for catching medium to larger bass. The rod's weight is listed at 6 pounds, which seems quite high for a 7'1" casting rod and might feel heavy during extended use.

Additionally, the product details mention a generic brand name despite the G Loomis model designation, which could cause some confusion about its authenticity or exact origin. For anglers looking for a high-tension, fast-action rod for precise baitcasting, this model fits well, but those prioritizing a lighter setup might want to consider other options.

The Okuma PCH-C-761XH is a 7'6" baitcasting rod designed for heavy-duty fishing, especially suited for targeting large saltwater species like tuna and halibut. Its extra heavy power and fast action make it strong and responsive, which helps when you need to set the hook quickly and handle big fish. The rod is made from a composite material with a 24-ton carbon blank, giving it a good balance of strength and lightness.

Zirconium inserts in the guides allow it to work well with both braided and monofilament fishing lines, offering versatility depending on your preference. The handle features a full Wells grip made from EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), which is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip even when wet.

A potential downside is its relatively high line rating (30-60 lb), which means it’s not ideal for lighter or finesse fishing techniques. Also, being a one-piece rod, it might be less convenient to transport compared to multi-piece rods. For anglers who need strength over finesse, this Okuma model offers good performance and quality materials at a reasonable weight suitable for serious saltwater casting.

The KastKing Perigee II 7ft baitcasting rod is a solid choice if you’re looking for a versatile, medium to medium-heavy power rod with a fast action, which means it’s responsive and good for casting with control and sensitivity. Its length of 7 feet is a common sweet spot for baitcasting, offering a good balance between casting distance and accuracy. Made from high-quality carbon fiber and graphite, this rod promises strength and lightweight handling, so you won’t tire easily during long fishing sessions.

The rod's 3-piece design, including an extra tip, makes it convenient to transport and gives you a choice between medium and medium-heavy power options, adding flexibility for different fishing conditions or species. The handle features a comfortable, split high-density EVA grip and ergonomic graphite reel seat, which together help reduce fatigue and keep your hand comfortable. One thing to note is that while the rod uses premium components like Fuji guides and advanced blank technology for smooth power transfer, some anglers might prefer a two-piece rod for a slightly stiffer feel.

This rod is well suited for various freshwater species like bass, walleye, and catfish, and can even handle light saltwater use. It’s a great pick for intermediate anglers who want a quality rod that performs well without being overly specialized or complicated.