10 Best Trolling Rods 2025 in the United States

The PENN Carnage III Boat Conventional Fishing Rod is a durable and robust trolling rod designed for serious anglers. At 7 feet in length with medium-heavy power and fast action, it is suitable for handling large catches in open water. The rod is constructed using SLS3 blank construction, which ensures strength while remaining lightweight at just 0.42 kilograms. The Fuji K-Series and HB-Series guides with SiC inserts help to prevent line tangles and enhance the rod's performance. Additionally, the Fuji DPS and Sea-Guide Aluminum HBS reel seats offer reliable support for your reel, depending on the model you choose.

The rod is designed for casting techniques and is built as a single piece, which enhances its strength and sensitivity but may make it difficult to transport for some users. The color scheme of silver, black, and gold gives it a sleek and professional appearance. The PENN Carnage III is rated for line weights between 40-80 pounds, making it a versatile choice for various fishing conditions.

However, the single-piece design and relatively high price point might not suit everyone, especially those who prioritize portability and budget. This rod is ideal for adult anglers who are serious about their trolling and need a high-performance rod that can handle hefty fish with ease.

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.

The Okuma PCH Custom Carbon Glass Blended Trolling Rod is designed for serious anglers targeting big game fish, thanks to its medium-heavy power and fast action. It measures about 5 feet 6 inches long, a manageable size for trolling that offers good control and sensitivity. The rod’s construction blends 24-ton carbon with e-glass, which provides a nice balance between strength and responsiveness — meaning it can handle strong fish but still lets you feel bites clearly.

The 3K woven carbon butt section adds extra toughness, making it more durable than standard carbon rods. It’s equipped with ALPS RX series roller guides with stainless steel rollers, which help reduce line friction and make reeling smoother during long trolling sessions. The handle features a carbon fiber grip and durable shrink tube fore grips, offering comfort and a secure hold even when wet.

One potential downside is that the rod is relatively heavy at 27.2 ounces, which might cause fatigue during extended use. Also, the line weight rating of 60-130 lbs means it’s best suited for larger species, so it may be more than needed for casual or light trolling. This rod represents a solid choice for those seeking a durable, high-quality trolling rod built to handle big fish with good sensitivity and smooth line handling.