Best Ultralight Fishing Rods for Serious Anglers: Top 7 Picks for 2023

Action

It remains true that ultralight rods have limited power, but in the hands of a more experienced angler, an average ultralight rod can catch 5 to 8-pound fish. The action points to the rod’s possibility to bend when casting. Most ultralight fishing rods feature a fast or moderate action meaning they have a sensitive tip prone to bending quickly.

Though action remains a matter of preference, the majority of anglers select fast or extra-fast action ultralight rods as these are the most sensitive. This is mainly because fast-action rods work well for larger fish as well.

Moderate-action ultralight fishing rods are known to provide less control but offer better shock absorption. That’s why action preferences will differ from one angler to another at the end of the day.

Rod Length

Most manufacturers make ultralight rods up to 7 feet long to maintain proper casting accuracy. In general, the longer the length of the rod, the casting distance is greater and the casting accuracy is lower.

The most common lengths used for ultralight rods are 5 and 6 feet. Why? Because these lengths are excellent for accurately casting lightweight lures over short distances. The short length is also ideal for small creek or pond fishing.

If you are interested in purchasing one of the longer 7-feet rods, choose one with a stiffer backbone.

Line Guides

The lines for these ultralight rods should not be very thick, but it’s important that they are thick-braided.

Ultralight rods often have between 8 to 10 line guides, and some of the best models feature lightweight guides. For anglers fishing in saltwater, looking for corrosion resistance is recommended.

Having more guides on the rod is advisable, offering uniform bending and power while allowing anglers to cast further. More guides mean more money, but they are helpful when fighting a big fish.

Power

The main factors determining the rod’s power are the strength of the main line and the heavy lures. The rod’s power refers to its lifting or strength. The power rating varies between ultralight, light, medium light, medium, medium heavy, and heavy.

Ultralight rods can bend pretty easily, meaning even a small 2-pound fish will be enough to get your attention. However, don’t be fooled by the name, as ultralight should not be confused with weak.

Line and Lure Weight

Matching the line and lure is quite specific. Always pair slender ultralights with lighter lines and smaller lures. The line weights of the rod should be between 2 to 6 pounds, while acceptable lure sizes vary between 1/64 oz to 1/4 or 1/2 oz.

Material

Rods differ in material, with some being made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, or graphite, while others use composite construction.

Carbon fiber is the most expensive, both the strongest and lightest material of all, and comes at a hefty price.

Graphite is the second-best choice, and it is ultralight yet stiff and strong and makes a durable option.

Fiberglass is the least expensive and heaviest option but offers solid strength.

Handle

Ultralight fishing rods feature either a cork or EVA foam handle and which one feels more comfortable entirely depends on personal taste. Some anglers prefer the cork handle, while others find the EVA handle more comfortable. It offers them a connected feel and doesn’t diminish the sensitivity.

Reel Selection

You can expect an ultralight rod to always be paired with a spinning reel. This is because spinning reels offer less friction than alternatives such as close-faced reels and bait casters. Spinning reels of 1000 to 2500 are often suitable for ultralight rods.