10 Best Portable Backpacking Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and 7' Fishing Rod Combo Travel Kit is designed for anglers who want a durable, portable rod suitable for backpacking and fishing trips. This 7-foot rod offers medium power, making it versatile enough for catching bass and other similar-sized fish. Its 4-piece design breaks down easily for transport, and the included cloth travel bag adds convenience for packing and carrying. The rod combines graphite and fiberglass (called Ugly Tech Construction), which balances toughness with sensitivity—good for feeling bites while still handling rough use. Weighing just over 1 kilogram, it’s light enough to carry on long hikes without adding too much bulk.

The reel features corrosion-resistant components, a smooth retrieve rate, and is ambidextrous, which means it suits both right- and left-handed anglers. The medium rod action and 15-pound line rating suggest it’s not the best choice for very heavy or large fish. Also, while the 4-piece design aids portability, it might sacrifice a bit of stiffness compared to a one-piece rod. This combo is a solid pick for casual and intermediate fishers who want a reliable, travel-friendly rod that handles a range of freshwater fishing scenarios without weighing them down.

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos stands out as a solid choice for travelers and hobbyists seeking a portable fishing solution. With its 1.8-meter length, it provides a good balance for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it versatile for various fishing environments. The rod is made from a mix of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass, which makes it both hard and durable while maintaining a lightweight profile at just 1.21 pounds. This is a key strength for backpacking anglers who need to keep their gear light and manageable.

The telescopic design enhances portability, allowing it to easily fit into a car trunk or backpack, ideal for those on the move. The included accessories, such as the fishing reel, lures, line, and a carrier bag, make it a convenient all-in-one package, especially beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a ready-to-go setup.

On the performance side, the fishing reel features 13 + 1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings and a 5.5:1 gear ratio, ensuring smooth operation and a pleasant fishing experience. The reel's aluminum handle and spool design add to its durability and comfort during use. There are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users might find the rod’s action less responsive compared to higher-end models, particularly when targeting larger fish. Additionally, while the accessories included are beneficial, they may not meet the expectations of more experienced anglers who prefer specific brands or types of fishing lures and lines.

Despite these minor concerns, the Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos delivers good value for its price, making it a noteworthy option for casual anglers and backpackers looking to enjoy fishing without the burden of heavy gear.

The PLUSINNO Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is designed for novice anglers looking for a complete fishing kit that emphasizes portability and ease of use. With a rod length of 8.86 feet and a medium power rating, it's well-suited for catching a variety of species, particularly bass. The combination of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass makes the rod both durable and flexible, providing good sensitivity during fishing. Its telescopic design is a standout feature, allowing for easy storage and transport, making it perfect for backpacking trips.

One of the major strengths of this product is the all-inclusive nature of the kit. It comes with a fishing rod, reel, fishing line, lures, hooks, and a convenient carrier bag, meaning beginners won’t need to make additional purchases to get started. The stainless steel reel seats resist corrosion, which is beneficial for saltwater fishing. Additionally, the EVA fore grip ensures comfort during use.

There are some areas where the PLUSINNO combo might fall short. While the kit is designed for beginners and includes essential accessories, more experienced anglers might find the rod's medium power and action limiting, especially if they prefer targeting larger species or using specialized techniques. The absence of a fishing rod holder may also be a drawback for some users, as it requires an extra purchase. In terms of weight, at 267 grams, the rod is relatively light, contributing to its portability. Yet, the combination kit weighs about 1.14 kilograms in total, which could be slightly heavy for extended hikes.