10 Best Surf Fishing Rods 2026 in the United States

The PENN 8’ Pursuit IV fishing rod and reel combo is a solid choice for saltwater surf fishing, especially for anglers who want a durable yet lightweight setup. With an 8-foot length, it offers good reach and control for casting in surf conditions. The rod’s medium-heavy power and moderate fast action strike a nice balance, making it versatile enough for handling a range of fish sizes commonly targeted in surf fishing. Made from graphite composite, the rod is both strong and light, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. The split EVA handle is comfortable and designed for both right- and left-handed users, which adds to its user-friendliness. The six single-piece PENN Dura-Guides are tough and help prevent line wear, accommodating both braided and monofilament lines well.

The included size 5000 reel features a smooth 5.6:1 gear ratio and a reliable HT-100 front drag system, capable of holding a good amount of line with a 12-25 lb rating, suitable for medium to larger saltwater species. On the downside, the combo’s weight of 1.9 pounds might feel a bit heavy to some, especially beginners or anglers who prefer ultra-light gear for long days on the beach. Also, while it’s sturdy and built to last, more advanced anglers might find the features somewhat basic compared to higher-end models.

This set is best suited for casual to intermediate saltwater anglers looking for a dependable, no-fuss rod and reel that can handle a variety of surf fishing situations without breaking the bank.

The SHIMANO TIRALEJO XX is an 11-foot surf fishing rod designed with medium-heavy power, making it suitable for handling larger marine fish commonly targeted in surf fishing. Its two-piece design makes it convenient to transport without sacrificing much in terms of strength or sensitivity.

The rod features Shimano’s Hi-Power X construction, which helps reduce twisting and increases durability—important when casting long distances and fighting strong fish. The Fuji SiC guides are high quality and smooth, which helps prevent line friction and improves casting performance. A Fuji DPS reel seat with a locking nut ensures your reel stays firmly in place, and the custom 3D ergonomic cork handle provides a comfortable grip for long fishing sessions.

On the downside, the rod weighs about 5 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some anglers during extended use. This rod fits well for anglers looking for a solid and reliable surf rod that balances power and comfort, especially if you target medium to large saltwater species and want a trustworthy brand backing your gear.

The PENN Spinfisher VII combo pairs a 10-foot, two-piece spinning rod with a 6500 size reel, making it a strong choice for surf fishing enthusiasts targeting larger species like salmon. Its heavy power rod and moderate-fast action provide good control and strength to handle heavy lines and bigger fish in rough surf conditions. Made from durable composite material, the rod offers solid break resistance without being too heavy to cast comfortably. The handle and guides are designed to withstand stress, with six durable Dura-Guides helping reduce line wear.

The reel features a sealed IPX5 design to resist saltwater spray and sand intrusion, which is critical for surf fishing. The CNC-cut brass main gear and six sealed stainless steel bearings ensure smooth retrieves and reliable performance. It has a max drag of 30 pounds, suitable for fighting strong fish, and a decent line capacity that fits the 15-30lb line rating. With a gear ratio of 5.6:1, it offers a balanced retrieval speed, good for various lures in the 1-5 oz range.

While the rod’s length and power suit surf fishing well, the two-piece design might slightly reduce sensitivity compared to one-piece rods. The combo weighs over a kilogram, which could cause fatigue during extended sessions. Some users report a moderate learning curve to maximize the reel’s features. This combo is a durable, reliable setup for saltwater surf fishing, especially for those targeting medium to heavy fish species. Beginners might find its features a bit advanced, but intermediate users will appreciate the robust build and smooth operation.