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10 Best Surf Casting Rods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PENN Squadron III 9’ Surf Spinning Fishing Rod; 2-Piece, 12-20lb Line Rating, Medium Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3/4-3 oz. Lure Rating, Titanium/Red/Gold

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,191
Power
Material

Most important from
984 reviews

Power
Despite initial concerns, the rod's stiffness doesn't hinder bite detection, offering a good balance for casting and feeling bites.
Material
This rod feels lightweight yet durable, capable of casting over 100 yards with ease.

The PENN Squadron III 9’ Surf Spinning Fishing Rod is designed for versatility and reliability, making it a solid choice for both new and experienced anglers. Its two-piece graphite composite construction makes it lightweight and highly sensitive, which is ideal for detecting subtle bites. The rod has a medium power rating and a moderate fast action, providing a good balance between flexibility and strength, suitable for handling line weights of 12-20 lbs and lures between 3/4 to 3 ounces.

The PENN Dura-Guides are durable and protect the fishing line in both fresh and saltwater environments, while the rubber shrink tube grip ensures a steady hold during intense battles, preventing slippage without snagging on clothing. The rod’s graphite reel seat is dependable and enhances the lightweight feel of the rod. However, some users might find the moderate fast action to be less responsive for certain fishing techniques that require quick hook sets. Additionally, while the two-piece design adds convenience for transport and storage, it might not be as robust as a one-piece rod.

With a high customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, this rod demonstrates strong user satisfaction. Its stylish titanium/red/gold color scheme adds a touch of elegance. Ideal for surf fishing, this rod performs well in various conditions, making it a versatile addition to any angler's gear.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,191
Power
Material

Most important from
984 reviews

Power
Despite initial concerns, the rod's stiffness doesn't hinder bite detection, offering a good balance for casting and feeling bites.
Material
This rod feels lightweight yet durable, capable of casting over 100 yards with ease.
#2

PENN Prevail III 10' Surf Spinning Rod; 2-Piece Fishing Rod, Durable Graphite Composite Construction, Durable Stainless Steel Guides

Rating
10.0
Action
Material
Guides

Most important from
341 reviews

Action
Typical Penn quality with good action, making it a highly recommended, purpose-built rod.
Material
The graphite construction is impressively strong, handling even a 20+ lbs stingray without breaking.
Guides
One downside noted is the lack of a guide on the bottom half, which makes setup slightly more cumbersome.

The PENN Prevail III 10' Surf Spinning Rod is a commendable choice for surf casting, offering a blend of strength, durability, and comfort. The rod's 10-foot length provides an excellent reach for casting from the shore, while the medium-heavy power and moderate-fast action make it versatile enough to handle various coastal fishing situations, including battling sizeable fish. The graphite composite construction ensures a robust yet lightweight build, which is crucial for prolonged use without fatigue.

Additionally, the rod's 2-piece design makes it convenient for transport and storage, although some users may prefer a single-piece rod for maximum strength and sensitivity. The inclusion of six durable stainless steel guides enhances the rod’s resilience in both fresh and saltwater environments, ensuring smooth line movement and reducing wear and tear. The handle features a premium type C rubber shrink tube, offering a comfortable and secure grip, which is essential during lengthy fishing sessions.

The rod's relatively high price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious anglers. The PENN Prevail III offers great value for those seeking a durable and high-performing surf-casting rod.

Rating
10.0
Action
Material
Guides

Most important from
341 reviews

Action
Typical Penn quality with good action, making it a highly recommended, purpose-built rod.
Material
The graphite construction is impressively strong, handling even a 20+ lbs stingray without breaking.
Guides
One downside noted is the lack of a guide on the bottom half, which makes setup slightly more cumbersome.
#3

OKUMA VSS-S-1004H Voyager Signature Surf Travel Rods, Black, 10' H

Rating
9.9
Power
Material

Most important from
53 reviews

Power
Sensitive, strong, and visually appealing, this rod handled small bass and a 12-pound carp effortlessly.
Material
Lightweight and durable with great sensitivity for feeling even the slightest bites.

The OKUMA VSS-S-1004H Voyager Signature Surf Travel Rod is a solid choice for surf fishing enthusiasts looking for a reliable and portable rod. With a length of 10 feet and a heavy power rating, it suits those who need to cast heavier lines (17-40 lbs) and tackle larger fish. The light and responsive 24-ton carbon rod blanks ensure sensitivity and control, making it easier to detect bites and manage your catch effectively. Its four-piece design allows for convenient transportation, which is a big plus for anglers on the go.

The Fuji Tangle Free guide frames with FazLite inserts enhance casting distance while reducing the chance of line tangles, a common annoyance in fishing. The Fuji DPS reel seat adds to the rod’s reliability, ensuring your reel stays securely attached during use.

While the rod's construction is commendable, some users might find it a bit stiffer than expected due to its heavy power rating, which may not suit everyone, especially beginners who may prefer a more forgiving rod. Additionally, the EVA grip, while providing decent comfort, may not meet the preferences of anglers who favor cork handles for their traditional feel.

Rating
9.9
Power
Material

Most important from
53 reviews

Power
Sensitive, strong, and visually appealing, this rod handled small bass and a 12-pound carp effortlessly.
Material
Lightweight and durable with great sensitivity for feeling even the slightest bites.

Buying Guide for the Best Surf Casting Rods

Choosing the right surf-casting rod can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Surf-casting rods are designed to cast bait or lures from the shore into the surf, and they need to be strong enough to handle the powerful fish that inhabit these waters. When selecting a surf-casting rod, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your time fishing to the fullest.
LengthThe length of a surf-casting rod is crucial because it affects casting distance and leverage. Surf-casting rods typically range from 9 to 15 feet. Shorter rods (9-11 feet) are easier to handle and are suitable for smaller fish and shorter casting distances. Medium-length rods (11-13 feet) offer a balance between casting distance and control, making them versatile for various conditions. Longer rods (13-15 feet) provide maximum casting distance and are ideal for reaching deeper waters and targeting larger fish. Choose a length based on your fishing environment and the type of fish you aim to catch.
PowerPower refers to the rod's ability to handle heavy loads and is often categorized as light, medium, or heavy. Light power rods are suitable for smaller fish and lighter baits, offering more sensitivity. Medium power rods are versatile and can handle a wide range of fish sizes and bait weights. Heavy power rods are designed for large fish and heavy baits, providing the strength needed to reel in big catches. Consider the size of the fish you are targeting and the type of bait you will be using when selecting the power of your rod.
ActionAction describes how much and where the rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip, providing quick hook sets and better sensitivity, making them ideal for targeting fast-moving fish. Medium action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance between sensitivity and casting distance, suitable for a variety of fishing situations. Slow action rods bend throughout the entire length, providing maximum flexibility and are best for casting light baits over long distances. Choose the action based on your fishing style and the type of fish you are targeting.
MaterialSurf-casting rods are typically made from graphite, fiberglass, or a composite of both. Graphite rods are lightweight, sensitive, and provide excellent casting distance, making them ideal for detecting subtle bites. Fiberglass rods are more durable and flexible, suitable for handling larger fish and rough conditions. Composite rods offer a balance of sensitivity and durability, making them versatile for various fishing environments. Consider the conditions you will be fishing in and your preference for sensitivity versus durability when choosing the material of your rod.
GuidesGuides are the rings along the rod that direct the fishing line. The number, size, and material of the guides can affect casting performance and durability. More guides generally provide better line control and casting accuracy. High-quality materials like stainless steel or ceramic reduce friction and increase the lifespan of the guides. Choose a rod with guides that match your fishing style and the type of line you will be using to ensure smooth casting and retrieval.
HandleThe handle of a surf-casting rod affects comfort and control. Handles are typically made from cork, EVA foam, or a combination of both. Cork handles are lightweight and provide a good grip, even when wet. EVA foam handles are more durable and comfortable for extended use. Some rods feature longer handles for two-handed casting, which can help achieve greater casting distance. Consider the material and length of the handle based on your comfort preferences and casting style.

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