10 Best Salmon Trolling Rod 2025 in the United States

The Okuma Classic Pro GLT Downrigger Rod is well-regarded for its quality and durability, making it a solid choice for both amateur and experienced anglers. The rod measures 7 feet 6 inches in length, which is a versatile size for various trolling techniques. Its medium-light power offers a good balance between sensitivity and strength, suitable for targeting species like salmon, trout, and walleye. The rod’s fast action ensures quick and responsive hook sets, which is beneficial for trolling in deeper waters where precision is key.

Constructed from durable glass fiber with stainless steel components, it promises longevity and resilience, even under rigorous fishing conditions. The stainless steel hooded reel seat with graphite cushion inserts adds to the rod’s sturdiness and comfort during use. The inclusion of stainless steel double foot guides with titanium oxide inserts enhances the rod's guide durability and reduces line friction, which is essential for smooth casting and retrieving.

The handle, made from stainless steel with a full wells grip, provides a secure and comfortable hold, even when wet. The EVA butt covered with shrink tube helps with easy removal from rod holders. On the downside, the rod is a one-piece design, which might be less convenient for transportation and storage compared to multi-piece rods. Additionally, while the blend material construction is robust, some may prefer rods made entirely of high-modulus graphite for a lighter feel. Nevertheless, this rod is particularly suitable for anglers looking for a reliable and durable trolling rod that performs well in various fishing scenarios.

The Ugly Stik Bigwater Conventional Fishing Rod is designed for users who enjoy casting and need a durable and reliable rod for salmon trolling. This 7-foot, medium-heavy rod has a tension level of 30-50 pounds and is crafted from plastic, which may not be as robust as some high-end materials but still provides a good balance of durability and flexibility. The rod's fast action makes it responsive, which is an asset when trying to catch larger fish like salmon.

The Ugly Tech Construction and Ugly Stik Clear Tip enhance sensitivity and strength, allowing for better control and feedback when a fish bites. The rod features Ugly Tuff Guides, which are known for their durability and ability to withstand rough conditions. The Fuji Reel Seat adds to the rod's quality and ensures a secure fit for the reel, which is crucial during intense fishing sessions. The durable rubber gimbal, available on select models, can be a useful feature for stability and comfort over long periods of use.

The handle is made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, providing a comfortable grip, but some users might prefer other materials for a more premium feel. At 0.5 kilograms, the rod is lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver. However, being a one-piece rod, it might be less convenient to transport compared to multi-piece rods. This rod is a good choice for unisex-adult users looking for a reliable and well-balanced salmon trolling rod. Despite some limitations in material and transport convenience, it offers solid performance and durability for its price range.

The Shakespeare Ugly Stik 9’ Elite Salmon/Steelhead Spinning Rod is specially designed for targeting salmon and steelhead, making it a strong contender in its category. With a rod length of 9 feet, it offers substantial reach, which is beneficial for trolling. The medium-heavy power and medium-fast action make this rod versatile and capable of handling a wide range of conditions, providing a good balance between sensitivity and strength.

The rod’s construction includes 35% more graphite than the previous Ugly Stik GX2 model, making it lighter without sacrificing toughness. The blend of graphite and fiberglass ensures durability, and the rod is backed by a 7-year warranty, highlighting the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity. The Ugly Stik Clear Tip design enhances strength and sensitivity, which is a noted advantage for detecting strikes while trolling.

The rod features eight durable one-piece stainless steel guides that resist corrosion and eliminate insert pop-outs, ensuring smooth line flow and durability under rough conditions. The conventional reel seat with cushioned stainless steel hoods and the premium type-F cork handle provide comfort and a secure grip. For users specifically interested in trolling, the medium-heavy power might be less ideal compared to heavier options that offer more control over larger fish. Additionally, while the rod’s lightness is a strength, some anglers might prefer a more robust feel. If ease of transport is a priority, the two-piece design is beneficial, although it may slightly compromise the rod’s strength compared to a one-piece model. The Ugly Stik 9’ Elite combines durability, sensitivity, and comfort, making it a suitable choice for those targeting salmon and steelhead, especially in diverse fishing conditions.