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4 Best Muskie Rod 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

St. Croix Rods Mojo Musky Trolling Rod, Grey Haze, 7'0"

The St. Croix Rods Mojo Musky Trolling Rod is a well-crafted piece designed specifically for muskie fishing. At 7 feet in length, this rod strikes a good balance between control and reach. Its extra-heavy power rating makes it ideal for handling large and powerful fish like muskies. The moderate action provides versatility and a good mix of flexibility and stiffness, ensuring effective hook sets and control during the fight.

One notable strength is its construction, featuring a premium SCII carbon blend that combines durability, lightweight properties, and sensitivity. This is complemented by a super-premium linear S-glass construction, which enhances the rod's strength and performance without adding excessive weight. The EVA handle ensures comfort during extended fishing sessions and provides a secure grip even when wet.

Additionally, the rod features Sea Guide guides with stainless steel rings and black frames, as well as a Fuji DPS reel seat, adding to its premium feel and functionality. The one-piece design enhances its durability and performance, although it may be less convenient for transport compared to multi-piece rods. While the rod is relatively expensive, its 5-year warranty offers peace of mind. Its specialized design makes it best suited for serious muskie anglers rather than casual fishers. If you're looking for a sturdy, high-performance rod for targeting large muskies, this is a strong contender.

#2

St. Croix Rods Premier Musky Casting Rod, 7'0" (PM70HF2) Classic Black Pearl

Rating
9.8
Handle Type

Most important from
27 reviews

Handle Type
The cork handle is very soft to the touch and provides excellent quality.

The St. Croix Rods Premier Musky Casting Rod in Classic Black Pearl is a well-rounded choice for musky fishing enthusiasts. It has a 7-foot length, which provides a balance of casting distance and control. The rod’s power is rated as 'Heavy,' making it suitable for handling large and powerful fish like muskies. The 'Fast' action means it is quick to respond when a fish bites, which is advantageous for setting hooks effectively. Constructed from SCII carbon fiber, the rod is not only lightweight but also durable and sensitive, allowing you to feel even the slightest of nibbles.

The premium-grade cork handle ensures a comfortable and firm grip, which is especially important during long fishing sessions or when battling a big catch. Additional features like the Fuji reel seat and Kigan hook-keeper add to the rod's functionality and ease of use. However, at a weight of 7.9 ounces, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially if they are used to lighter rods. The two-piece design makes it convenient for transportation but might slightly affect the rod’s sensitivity compared to a one-piece rod. The rod is also backed by a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind regarding its durability. Priced for those looking for high performance without breaking the bank, this rod stands out as a reliable option for serious anglers targeting musky fish.

Rating
9.8
Handle Type

Most important from
27 reviews

Handle Type
The cork handle is very soft to the touch and provides excellent quality.
#3

Shimano Sojourn Muskie, Freshwater, Muskie, Trolling, 9'0", Heavy, Telescopic pcs, (SJCMTR90HTC) Fishing

Rating
9.7
Rod Length
Power
Action

Most important from
11 reviews

Rod Length
This Sojourn 9 ft muskie casting rod is perfect for not only muskie but also makes short work of big catfish.
Power
The rod worked out great for bringing in large fish, such as a 35-pound yellowtail and a 42-pound white seabass.
Action
The handle is just the right size for a comfortable grip, and the reel seat locks the reel down securely, ready for action.

The Shimano Sojourn Muskie Fishing Rod is designed specifically for freshwater muskie trolling, making it a solid choice for anglers targeting this challenging fish. At 9 feet long, it provides an excellent reach, which is beneficial when trolling for muskie. The rod's heavy power and moderate action mean it can handle large, fighting fish while providing a controlled and stable performance during the retrieval process.

Made from graphite, the rod is both lightweight at 9.6 ounces and durable, ensuring it can endure the demands of muskie fishing. The telescopic design is convenient for transport and storage, adding versatility for anglers who travel to their fishing spots. The full cork rear grip and EVA foregrip offer comfort and a firm hold, even during extended fishing sessions, while the double-foot guides and wire-frame components enhance the rod's durability and performance.

The rod being a single piece might be less convenient for some users compared to multi-piece rods that are easier to carry. The one-year limited manufacturer warranty provides additional peace of mind. The Shimano Sojourn Muskie rod’s attributes like heavy power, moderate action, and durable materials make it well-suited for serious muskie anglers, although its single-piece design might be a drawback for those needing a more portable option.

Rating
9.7
Rod Length
Power
Action

Most important from
11 reviews

Rod Length
This Sojourn 9 ft muskie casting rod is perfect for not only muskie but also makes short work of big catfish.
Power
The rod worked out great for bringing in large fish, such as a 35-pound yellowtail and a 42-pound white seabass.
Action
The handle is just the right size for a comfortable grip, and the reel seat locks the reel down securely, ready for action.

Buying Guide for the Best Muskie Rod

Choosing the right muskie rod is essential for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience. Muskies are large, powerful fish, so you need a rod that can handle their strength and size. When selecting a muskie rod, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Rod LengthRod length is the measurement from the rod's tip to the butt. It is important because it affects casting distance, accuracy, and leverage when fighting a fish. Rods typically range from 6 to 9 feet. Shorter rods (6-7 feet) offer better control and are easier to handle in tight spaces, making them ideal for beginners or those fishing in smaller areas. Longer rods (8-9 feet) provide greater casting distance and leverage, which is beneficial for experienced anglers targeting larger muskies in open waters.
PowerPower refers to the rod's ability to handle weight and its resistance to bending. It is crucial because it determines how well the rod can handle the size and strength of a muskie. Power ratings range from light to extra-heavy. For muskie fishing, medium-heavy to extra-heavy power rods are recommended. Medium-heavy rods are versatile and suitable for various lures and techniques, while heavy and extra-heavy rods are better for larger lures and bigger fish.
ActionAction describes how and where the rod bends when pressure is applied. It is important because it affects the rod's sensitivity, casting distance, and hook-setting ability. Action is categorized as slow, moderate, or fast. Fast action rods bend near the tip and are more sensitive, making them ideal for quick hook sets and working lures with precision. Moderate action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance between sensitivity and flexibility, suitable for a variety of techniques. Slow action rods bend throughout the length, providing more flexibility but less sensitivity, and are less common for muskie fishing.
MaterialRod material affects the rod's weight, sensitivity, and durability. Common materials include fiberglass, graphite, and composite blends. Fiberglass rods are durable and flexible but heavier and less sensitive, making them suitable for beginners or those on a budget. Graphite rods are lighter, more sensitive, and provide better performance, ideal for experienced anglers. Composite rods combine the benefits of both materials, offering a balance of sensitivity, weight, and durability.
Handle TypeHandle type influences comfort and grip during long fishing sessions. Handles are typically made from cork, EVA foam, or a combination of both. Cork handles are lightweight, comfortable, and provide a good grip, even when wet. EVA foam handles are durable, comfortable, and resistant to wear and tear. Choose a handle type that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a secure grip for extended periods.

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