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 Bigwater Conventional Fishing Rod is a 10-foot, two-piece rod designed for extra heavy power and fast action, making it suitable for strong, large fish, especially in deep sea fishing. Constructed with Ugly Tech materials, which generally include a mix of fiberglass and graphite, this rod offers durability and strength while remaining relatively lightweight at 0.74 kilograms. The rod can handle line weights between 40-80 pounds, aligning well with its extra heavy designation for serious fishing contexts.

The Ugly Stik Clear Tip is featured on select models, providing added sensitivity at the tip for better bite detection. The Ugly Tuff Guides are designed to be durable and reduce the likelihood of insert pop-outs, which is essential when dealing with heavy lines and big catches. The inclusion of a Fuji Reel Seat ensures a secure and comfortable placement for your reel, while the durable rubber gimbal, available on select models, provides stability when placed in a rod holder or against your body during tough fights with fish.

The rod's extra heavy power and fast action may not be suitable for small or medium fish, and its size and power might be overkill for casual fishing. Despite these points, for those who target large game fish and need a robust, reliable rod, the Ugly Stik Bigwater is a compelling choice. Its components and construction suggest it is built to withstand tough conditions and provide a reliable tool for dedicated anglers.

The Okuma CP-LT-762M Classic Pro GLT Lake Trolling Rod is a 7-foot, 6-inch rod designed for lake trolling, offering a moderate-fast action and medium power. Made from durable glass fiber with stainless steel components, this rod is built for reliability and quality.

Its stainless steel hooded reel seat with graphite cushion inserts and double foot guides with titanium oxide inserts enhance durability and performance. The EVA butt with a shrink tube makes it easy to remove from rod holders, and the tip-over-butt ferrule connection provides additional strength.

This rod supports a line weight of 10 to 20 pounds, making it versatile for various fishing conditions. Some may find the medium power and moderate-fast action slightly limiting compared to higher-end, more specialized rods. It's a solid choice for both amateur and experienced anglers looking for a dependable trolling rod for lake fishing.