10 Best Surf Casting Rods 2025 in the United States

The PENN 9’ Pursuit IV Surf Spinning Combo offers a solid choice for saltwater anglers looking for a reliable and durable fishing rod and reel setup. With its 9-foot length and medium-heavy power, this rod is well-suited for surf casting, allowing you to target species like bass, and its moderate-fast action provides good sensitivity and responsiveness when feeling for bites. The two-piece design makes it easy to transport, which is a plus for anglers on the go.

One of the standout features of this combo is its lightweight graphite composite rod and reel seat, which helps reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions while maintaining strength. It is equipped with six rugged PENN Dura-Guides, designed to handle both monofilament and braided lines without fraying. The 5.6:1 gear ratio ensures smooth retrieval, which many fishermen appreciate, especially when reeling in larger catches.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the rod's medium-heavy power is great for a variety of fish, more experienced anglers might find it lacking for heavy-duty applications. Additionally, the split EVA handle, while comfortable for many users, may not suit everyone's preferences, particularly those who favor a different grip style. The PENN 9’ Pursuit IV is a dependable spinning combo ideal for casual anglers and those newer to surf fishing, balancing performance and convenience in a durable package.

The St. Croix Legend Surf Casting Rod in Belize Blue is a solid choice for anglers focused on surf casting, thanks to its thoughtful design and quality materials. At 10 feet 6 inches, its length provides good casting distance and control, which is important when fishing from the shore. Its medium-heavy power and moderate-fast action strike a balance that allows for versatility—strong enough to handle larger saltwater fish while still being sensitive enough to detect bites.

The rod is made with a high-strength SCIV carbon blend using St. Croix's Fortified Resin System, ensuring durability without feeling overly heavy. It features Fuji K-Series guides with slim, corrosion-proof SiC rings and titanium frames, which help reduce line tangles and withstand harsh saltwater conditions. The custom neoprene handle offers a comfortable grip that stays secure even when wet, adding to overall handling comfort during long sessions. One minor trade-off is that this rod comes in two pieces, which is great for portability but might slightly affect balance or sensitivity compared to a one-piece rod.

Its line weight rating between 12-25 lbs and lure weight 2-6 ounces make it best suited for medium to larger fish species, so it might not be ideal if you’re targeting smaller species. The rod is backed by a 15-year transferable warranty, reflecting confidence in its build quality. For anglers seeking a dependable, well-made surf casting rod that performs well in saltwater environments and offers good comfort and durability, the St. Croix Legend is an excellent option.

The PENN Carnage III Surf Spinning Rod is a 12-foot, heavy-power rod designed for surf fishing, ideal if you're targeting larger saltwater species like tuna, halibut, or salmon. Its length is great for casting long distances from the shore, which is essential in surf fishing. This rod has a fast action, meaning it responds quickly when you set the hook, helping with better control and quicker hook sets. The rod features a durable SLS3 blank construction that provides strength without adding too much weight, and it weighs just under half a kilogram, making it manageable during long fishing sessions.

It uses quality Fuji K-Series guides with silicon carbide inserts, which reduce line friction and help prevent tangles, improving your casting experience. The handle is fully wrapped in rubber for a comfortable grip, even when wet, which is useful in a surf environment. The reel seat is from Fuji as well, ensuring a secure fit for your reel.

This rod is on the heavy side with a line rating of 30-50 lbs, so it's not suitable for light fishing or small fish species. Also, at 12 feet and two pieces, it might be a bit bulky for some to carry around easily. For anglers needing a strong, reliable rod for serious surf casting and handling bigger fish, this rod delivers good value with solid build quality and user-friendly features.