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10 Best Trolling Rods 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Okuma Classic Pro GLT Copper/Lead core Trolling Rod (12- 27 Lbs), Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,103
Power
Material

Most important from
1371 reviews

Power
The rod's stiffness and weight are more pronounced than expected, which may affect handling for some anglers.
Material
Offers excellent value with a strong build ideal for salmon trolling.

The Okuma Classic Pro GLT trolling rod is built for anglers looking for durability and strength on the water. Its e-glass blank construction makes the rod tough and less likely to break during heavy use. The rod features premium grips on both ends, helping you hold it comfortably even when wet. A sturdy stainless steel hook keeper is a handy touch to keep your bait or hook in place, while the stainless steel hooded reel seat with graphite inserts adds to the rod’s durability and reel security. It comes in two pieces, making it easier to transport.

The power rating is given as 12-27 pounds, which suggests it can handle medium to heavier fish. This rod suits anglers who want a strong, reliable rod with solid build quality, but if you need precise information on length or action, you might want to confirm those before buying.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,103
Power
Material

Most important from
1371 reviews

Power
The rod's stiffness and weight are more pronounced than expected, which may affect handling for some anglers.
Material
Offers excellent value with a strong build ideal for salmon trolling.
#2

Ugly Stik 7' GX2 Casting Rod, 2 Piece Fishing Rod, 8-20 lb Line Rating, Medium Light Rod Power, 1/4-3/4 oz Lure Rating

Rating
9.8
Power
Action

Most important from
3284 reviews

Power
The rod offers impressive toughness without sacrificing the ability to feel every strike clearly.
Action
Its flexible tip enhances bite detection while maintaining durability for demanding fishing conditions.

The Ugly Stik 7' GX2 Casting Rod is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable, medium-light power rod suited for bass fishing. At 7 feet long, it offers good reach without being cumbersome, making it versatile for various fishing spots. Built with a blend of graphite and fiberglass, the rod strikes a nice balance between strength and sensitivity, so you can feel bites clearly while still handling bigger catches without worry. It supports line weights from 8 to 20 pounds and lures between 1/4 to 3/4 ounces, fitting well for medium-light fishing situations but not ideal for very heavy or ultra-light setups. The rod features the famous Ugly Stik Clear Tip design, which adds to its durability and bite detection.

Its medium action allows the rod to bend moderately, providing a mix of control and flexibility that works well for many casting techniques. The guides are made from one-piece stainless steel with a protective coating to resist corrosion and reduce line wear, which is great for both freshwater and light saltwater use. The handle uses a full grip shrink tube EVA material that feels comfortable and slip-resistant, helping you hold on even when the fishing gets tough. One thing to keep in mind is the lure weight range is somewhat narrow compared to some rods, so if you plan to use significantly heavier lures, you might want to consider other options.

Backed by a 7-year warranty, this rod is designed to last and is ideal for beginners and intermediate anglers who want a dependable casting rod that offers a good mix of sensitivity, power, and toughness without breaking the bank.

Rating
9.8
Power
Action

Most important from
3284 reviews

Power
The rod offers impressive toughness without sacrificing the ability to feel every strike clearly.
Action
Its flexible tip enhances bite detection while maintaining durability for demanding fishing conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Rods

Choosing the right trolling rod is essential for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience. Trolling rods are specifically designed for trolling, a method of fishing where lines with baited hooks are drawn through the water. The right rod will depend on the type of fish you're targeting, the environment you'll be fishing in, and your personal preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a trolling rod.
Rod LengthRod length is the measurement from the tip of the rod to the butt. It is important because it affects casting distance, leverage, and control. Shorter rods (6-8 feet) offer better control and are ideal for trolling in smaller boats or when targeting larger fish. Medium-length rods (8-10 feet) provide a balance between control and casting distance, making them versatile for various fishing conditions. Longer rods (10-12 feet) are great for covering more water and are often used in open water or when targeting smaller 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 withstand pressure and is often categorized as light, medium, or heavy. This spec is crucial because it determines the size and weight of the fish you can handle. Light power rods are suitable for small fish and light lures, medium power rods are versatile and can handle a variety of fish sizes, and heavy power rods are designed for large, powerful fish. Select the power based on the species you are targeting and the type of lures you plan to use.
ActionAction describes how much and where the rod bends when pressure is applied. It is important because it affects the rod's sensitivity and hook-setting ability. Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip and are very sensitive, making them ideal for quick hook sets and detecting subtle bites. Medium action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance of sensitivity and strength, suitable for a variety of fishing techniques. Slow action rods bend throughout the entire length, providing a more forgiving and flexible experience, which is great for fighting larger fish. Choose the action based on your fishing style and the type of fish you are targeting.
MaterialThe material of the rod affects its weight, sensitivity, and durability. Common materials include fiberglass, graphite, and composite. Fiberglass rods are durable and flexible, making them ideal for beginners and for trolling in rough conditions. Graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, providing better performance and feel, but they can be more fragile. Composite rods combine the benefits of both materials, offering a balance of strength, sensitivity, and durability. Consider the material based on your experience level and the fishing conditions you expect to encounter.
Line WeightLine weight indicates the range of line strengths that the rod is designed to handle. This spec is important because using the correct line weight ensures optimal performance and prevents damage to the rod. Light line weights (2-10 lbs) are suitable for small fish and light lures, medium line weights (10-20 lbs) are versatile for various fish sizes, and heavy line weights (20+ lbs) are designed for large, powerful fish. Choose the line weight based on the species you are targeting and the fishing conditions.
GuidesGuides are the rings along the rod that direct the fishing line. They are important because they affect casting distance, accuracy, and line management. More guides generally provide better line control and smoother casting. High-quality guides made from materials like ceramic or stainless steel reduce friction and increase durability. Consider the number and quality of guides based on your fishing style and the type of line you plan to use.

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