Best Telescopic Fishing Rods – Expert Buying Guide (2023)

Number Of Sections

A telescopic fishing rod with fewer sections gains more strength and decreases the chances of sudden snapping. On the other hand, multiple sections mean that a telescoping rod can be made much shorter – a perfect fit for many small space storages.

Action And Power

The telescopic rods action is determined by the tip’s bending ability, and the best telescopic fishing rods have varying degrees of flexibility. Therefore, a high-flex rod tip bends only in the tip area of the rod, while medium-action rods stretch the bending ability up to half of the rod. Finally, a slow-action rod, which is usually the case with telescoping fishing rods that have an extensive number of sections, will have your whole rod bending (from the handle to the tip).

Most best telescopic fishing rods you’ll encounter are medium-heavy-powered. However, you should choose the power level according to the fish you plan on reeling. For example, medium-heavy-powered is ideal for panfish, but bigger fish require heavy-powered rods.

Reel Seat

Choose a strong and wide reel seat, such as stainless steel for durability, or aluminum for saltwater fishing. Avoid carbon fiber as it lacks durability for the best telescopic fishing rods.

Extended and Collapsible Lengths

The more extended length rods enable excellent long casting distance. But if surf fishing isn’t of your interest, look for a telescopic rod with a collapsible length to fit your gym bag or backpack.

Line Guides

For the best telescopic fishing rods, it’s important to have a pole with a greater number of guide rings. Look for a line guide that comes with a solid build and the correct fixture for the fishing rod. When choosing the material of the guide, options include ceramic, metal (aluminum oxide guides), or plastic guides.

Comfortable Handle

The cork and EVA foam handles provide the ultimate comfort to anglers. These materials are very light and nice to the touch. However, both come with certain drawbacks – with time, both materials will wear and tear.

There are also wooden-handle telescopic rods that bring a certain beauty to the overall design of the rod. The wooden handles are non-slippery and durable but tend to scratch easily.

Target Species

The choice of a telescopic fishing rod is closely connected to your target species. This is a feature that takes into consideration different aspects: the fish’s weight, the rod’s action, length, etc.

Durability

The durability of the rod depends on the materials used for its build. Today’s market offers telescopic rods made of stainless steel, carbon fiber, aluminum, or graphite. Each of these materials offers durability, specific strength, and flexy features.

Size

Telescopic poles come in various sizes, usually ranging from 5 to 9 ft. Though it’s a rare find on the market, there are specific brands that offer 10-12 feet long telescopic rods. Longer rods excel in long-distance casting but aren’t as precise. Shorter rods give you extra precision but aren’t good for long-distance casting.

Mobility

Mobility is one of the main reasons anglers go for telescopic rods. Their lightweight, collapsible design makes them easy to pack and store away.

Lightweight

Telescopic fishing rods are usually lightweight. This is one of their leading characteristics since these rods signify easy packing and carrying around. Though, the rod’s weight is in close relation to the materials used for its construction.

Affordability

Telescopic rods are known as budget-friendly rods (ranging between $17 and $60+) that offer the whole package. Even if you aim toward higher-tier telescopic poles, you still won’t break the bank.