Surf fishing is carried out in shallow waters and requires you to catch fish while surfing in a kayak or standing on the shore. If you search online for the best surf casting rod you will be overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available. There are so many brands competing with each other and you might get confused so as to which one to go for.
However, we have made things easy for you as we have done all the research. Let us look at the best surfcasting rod that will fetch awesome fish for you.
Quick Overview – Best Surf Casting Rod
- Best All Around Surf Casting Rod: Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
- Best Value Surf Casting Rod: Daiwa Beefstick Surf Rod 2 Piece
- Best Surf Casting Rod for Distance: Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
Quick Comparison – Best Surf Casting Rods
Buying Guide
The surf fishing rods come in different lengths, weights and specifications and are used for saltwater fishing. These rods are designed to catch fish from a distance so that the anglers can catch fish from the shoreline. You can select the one that best matches your needs.
We have come up with some parameters that you should keep in mind before investing in a surf fishing rod. Read on to know more about each of these parameters.
Length
Surf fishing rods are relatively longer as compared to rods that are used for boat fishing. It is because the longer the rod the farther you are able to cast. The extra length also helps in keeping the line safe as it rests in a sand pike or a PVC holder. If you are looking forward to catch flounder, redfish or pompano then you need a rod that is approximately 8 to 10 feet long. On the other hand, if you want to catch stripers, smaller sharks, and jacks then you should prefer larger lengths of about 10 to 13 feet.
So before deciding which rod you should opt for, it is important to keep in mind the fish that you want to catch and the distance from the shore. However, you should also consider your physical limitations when investing in a rod. For instance, if you are shorter then go for an average sized rod for a smooth fishing experience. A 10 feet rod generally works well for both short and long people alike.
Power or Weight
The power or the weight of a surfcasting rod is dependent on how stiff the rod is and is generally referred to as flex per unit of weight. For surf fishing you need a rod that is medium to extra-heavy so that you can comfortably manage the larger fish that are sometimes very aggressive.
Your choice of rod power or weight will depend on the fighting ability of your intended target species and the lures’ weight. Make sure to also choose a matching line because rods with heavier power need heavier lines.
Reel Seats and Handles
Many a times people tend to ignore this feature when investing in a surfcasting rod but it needs careful consideration. Generally, the reel seats are made up of graphite as it is non-corrosive. You can also go for metal alloy reel seats; however, they may become corrosive with the passage of time. So, graphite seats are perfect for surf rods and most of them are made up of graphite.
Also, surf fishing rod handles are made up of cork or foam and are usually very long. So, they require two-hand casting enabling you to launch baits across long distances.
Rod Guides
Rod guide layouts are another important consideration as you are looking forward to invest in a surfcasting rod. The guides depend on where the reel is located on the fishing rod. The location of the guide varies from a spinning rod to a casting rod and also depends on the type of surfcasting rod you go for. The other options for rod guides include ceramic ones and the ones made with aluminum oxide.
The Best Surf Fishing Rod – Our Top Picks
The Best All Around Surf Casting Rod
Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
Pros
- Has sensitive graphite compost banks that help you cast longer distance comfortably
- The butt sections are made of premium cork for a steady grip and non-slip fore.
- Comes with limited one year warranty
- Choose from a wide available variety of lengths and actions
Cons
- Some of the customers have reported a missing protective ring on the very first guide, rendering the product useless, because without the ring the guide will cut the line as it is very sharp
If you are looking for a durable and sensitive surf casting rod then Okuma Longitudinal Surf Graphite rod is the best choice. This rod is designed keeping your comfort in mind and lasts much longer than an average surf casting rod. These rods are made up of sensitive graphite compost blanks that help you cast longer distance effortlessly and also help you feel the lightest of fish bites.
If you are wondering whether this rod is good enough for harsh weather conditions then you need not worry as it has premium components that are designed to stand the rigors involved in day to day fishing. The guides are made of aluminum oxide inserts and are braid compatible. Moreover, the line runs straight with the help of stainless-steel guide frames.
The manufacturers have ensured that you don’t get tired casting all day so the butt sections are premium cork for a steady grip and non-slip fore. Moreover, the reel seat is made up of stainless steel and it keeps the reel in pace for casting and winding down on large fish.
The best part is that these longitude Surf Rods come in five different lengths and you can select the one that best suits your needs. So, whether you are looking for a short or a long rod Okuma rods provide you the best fishing experience. All of the models are 2-piece blanks and are available in a range of 8’ to 12’ in length. With Okuma’s great rod technology, they provide you the best surf rods available in the market.
If you are looking for a rod that has both quality and value then you should definitely go for Okuma rods. The dynamic design and the high-quality materials last longer and provide a great fishing experience. So, whether you are looking forward to catch trout, bass, and catfish or salmon, marlin, or tuna, the Okuma rods ensure that you get a great catch.
The Best Value Surf Casting Rod
Daiwa Beefstick Surf Rod 2 Piece
Pros
- Very strong carbon fiberglass blanks
- Great eye-catching cosmetics
- Stainless steel reel seat hoods
- Stainless steel guides
- Spin, cast, surf and boat rods
Cons
- May give you a problem if you cast heavier weight with this one
If you don’t want to invest much in a surf rod and still want something that works fine and lasts long then Daiwa Beefstick is a good choice. It easily allows you to cast 10 to 12 oz without facing any problems. It is well made and has a sturdy construction so that you can sail the bait to larger distances. Moreover, this rod has a great backbone enabling you to cast effortlessly.
The best part about Daiwa Beefstick is that it’s very sensitive as well a durable and so is the perfect rod if you are on a tight budget and provides the best value for your money. Also, because of its durability it provides sustainability and is great for the environment as you don’t have to invest in a new rod anytime soon. When looking for a cheap surf casting rod, check out this one, but make sure to buy it from Amazon directly if possible, as resellers often add a quite hefty markup!
Amazon
The Best Surf Casting Rod for Distance
Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
Pros
- Has S=smooth intermediate modulus carbon fiber blank
- Comprises Fuji reel skeleton and full reel seats
- Has sea guide Ss316 stainless sloped guides with Zirconium inserts
- Contains premium cork and TAC grips in split and full handle 1404018
- Comes with a 5 Year limited Warranty
Cons
- Some of the pieces delivered to the customers are missing eyelets
The Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Fishing Rod is able to comfortably cast over 100 yards. Moreover, the built of this rod is great and looks pretty. If you are looking for a rod that can be used with a braided line then this one is a good match.
It is sensitive to even the lightest bites and is relatively cheaper when compared to many other surf casting rods available online. It is a 2-piece rod that is durable and made of good quality materials. If you are looking forward to buy a gift for your family member or a friend who is a seasoned anger then the Penn Squadron II Surf Spinning Fishing Rod is a great option.
Amazon
Best Surf Casting Rod – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the length of the surf fishing rod that I should opt for?
Rod sizes will depend on the casting distances. A surf casting rod usually vary from 7 to 15 feet. A varying length of 7 – 9 feet works well for fan casting so that you can go for small to medium species of fish such as sharks and rays. However, if you are looking for a rod that is good for all surf fishing conditions then you should go for 9-12 feet length. A length of 12-15 feet is preferred for long casting.
Which material should I go for when investing in a surf casting rod?
Choose graphite over other materials as it is lighter in weight so that you can hold the rod for a longer duration without getting tired. Moreover, graphite is very sensitive and helps you detect even the lightest of bites.
What’s better for surf fishing: one piece or two-piece fishing rod?
The lesser the components in a rod the better it is, so ideally you should go for a single piece rod. However, if you have space constraints then it is better to go for a 2-piece rod as it is more compact and thus uses less space.
What is the best fishing line for surf casting to go with my rod?
Check out our recommendations for mono line, braided line and fluoro line for surf casting!
Happy Surf Fishing
Surf fishing is perhaps the most adventurous types of fishing. However, it is more demanding as compared to other forms and not only requires expertise but also a great tackle. To avoid any disappointments, it is good to have a proper fishing gear that includes a great surf casting rod and reel combo that is both efficient and durable.
We have provided you all the information that will help you select the best surf casting rod for your fishing needs. So, what are you waiting for? Get the best surf casting rod and gear up to a fun fishing experience.