Best Kayak Fishing Rods for the Money

Length

Choose a size between 6 1/2 and 8 feet long to get the best kayak fishing rod. However, the type of fishing and fish species ask for a specific rod length. Short, heavy rods are suitable for thick covers, while a longer rod is usually used for longer casts on open water.

Weight

Good kayak fishing rods are usually under 2 pounds. Depending on the rod power, the line can be 1-12 lb for lighter rods and 20-100 lb for medium-heavy power to heavy ones. You can use additional weights if you want to try bottom fishing techniques.

Power

When selecting a rod’s power, you must consider your target species. Light or ultralight rods are best for panfish; medium power is suitable for medium-sized fish, and heavy power rods are used for catching trophy fish. Generally, it would help to have a durable rod with medium light to medium power for best results.

Action

Many kayak anglers choose fast to medium fast action rods to feel the movements of the fish. The sensitivity of the fast action rods gives you greater control over the lure when the fish start attacking it. However, if you decide to go kayak fishing in places like docks, thick trees, or vegetation, you will need a stiff rod with moderate to slow action.

Material

Kayak fishing rods are made from materials that are lightweight and durable. These include carbon fiber, graphite, and fiberglass. Most fishing rods are constructed from graphite because it is a solid, robust, and light material. Fiberglass is a bit heavier but quite flexible, and there is a graphite and fiberglass composite that is also very tough and lightweight.

Handle

The handles are usually made from cork or EVA foam because they are sturdy materials but soft and gentle on anglers’ hands. Depending on the design, they can be split, full-grip handles, or long handles.

Ferrules

Ferrules are the application points that allow you to assemble and disassemble rods so you can transport them. Generally, they are made from metal, such as brass or aluminum, and are available in various sizes and shapes.

Guides

Guides are metal rings attached to the fishing rod in a line pattern from the handle to the tip. They have aluminum oxide inserts that keep the line from tangling and reduce friction as it is cast and retrieved. Often manufacturers use ceramics like silicon carbide and metals such as aluminum oxide and stainless steel for the guides.

Reel Seat

The reel seat is the fixation point for the reel, with a collar that needs to be tightened to secure the reel. It’s usually made of metal or graphite and can be either fixed or sliding. It is essential to choose a reel seat that’s comfortable to use and is designed to fit your reel correctly.

Price

Considering that all premium quality products are expensive, this also applies to fishing gear. However, there are decent kayak fishing rods at an affordable price too. With a bit of research, you can find low-priced, reliable fishing rods.

Unique Challenges of Fishing from a Kayak

Size Matters

Size does matter when fishing from a kayak. But not just that, the environment you fish in also impacts the rod’s length. So generally, rod sizes vary from 6’6″ to 8′, considering your kayak length and personal fishing style.

Target Species

Since you can kayak fish in freshwater and saltwater, you can catch a wide range of fish. The most common fish species that kayak anglers target are bass, red drum, pike, walleye, bluefish, etc. You can also target spotted sea trout, king mackerel, cobia, and great barracuda.