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Daddy by day, fisherman at night.
Having the right gear can make or break your fishing experience. Knowing what rod and lure you need for your fishing trip is a necessary preparation. But first, you should know what your target fish for the day is. That way, you can prepare the perfect fishing equipment that will surely bring you some catch.
To get more acquainted with the best gear offered on the market, especially for walleye-catching enthusiasts, read on. We prepared the best walleye rods that you can find today!
Top 3 Best Rods for Walleye
Best Overall
Cadence CR5 Spinning
- Designed with Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank
- Effective with freshwater and saltwater fish
- Extra smooth power
- Great for packing and transport
Best Sensitivity
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing
- Great weight and smooth reel
- Wonderful action
- Spinning reel design for easy casting
- Available left- and right-hand models
Best for Larger Fish
Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye
- Great TAC and cork handle design that works even in wet conditions
- Available in multiple lengths and actions
- Extremely lightweight titanium frame guides
- Excellent rod for jigging
Top 7 Best Walleye Rods for the Money
1. Cadence CR5 Spinning – Best Overall Walleye Rod
2. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing – Best Combo Walleye Rod
3. Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye – Best Lightweight Walleye Rod
4. Daiwa Bass AirdX Spinning Rod (2-Piece) – Best Casting Walleye Rod
5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite – Best Spinning Walleye Rod
6. St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament – Best Premium Walleye Rod
7. Okuma Classic Pro GLT – Best Budget Walleye Rod
Table of Contents
Our Reviews of the Best Walleye Fishing Rod
#1 Best Overall - Cadence CR5 Spinning
WHY WE LIKE IT: Like most walleye fishing rods, the Cadence CR5 Spinning is made from carbon matrix graphite blank but features durability and sensitivity on a whole other level. It is a solid road, even though it is lightweight.
- Material: Stainless steel
- Weight: 0.1 pounds
- Color: Red
- Action: Fast
- Fishing Technique: Spinning
- Grip Type: Split
- Style: 6 available, including 7’0″-medium Heavy-fast-2 Piece and 7’0″-medium-fast-1 Piece
Pros
- Designed with Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank
- Effective with freshwater and saltwater fish
- Extra smooth power
- Great for packing and transport
Cons
- The locking ring assembly is not strong enough
- The handle is a bit smaller compared to their usual lightweight rods
- The joint between the two pieces of the rod is too lose
BUYING ADVICE: Although it is a thin rod, it has a solid handle that gives you a good hand grip and a lot of control.
We tried it out in our local pond and test-cast it several times. The construction was solid, the casting distance was perfect, and we got bass and a couple of walleyes. Overall, we were surprised by how light and flexible the rod was. If you want to couple these walleye jigging rods with good lures, read our review on the best walleye lures.
FEATURES: Aside from the beautiful craftsmanship of this road, what exceeds the competition is the well-thought combination of cork and EVA. This allows for optimal performance and comfort, making this rod the overall best on the market.
#2 Best Combo - Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing
WHY WE LIKE IT: This ultra-balanced medium power rod is one of the best walleye rods you can use if you are a fan of ice-fishing walleye. The fact it is made of the famous Ugly Stik blank and stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts was the deal maker for us.
- Material: Aluminium
- Color: Black
- Action: Fast
- Fishing Technique: Ice-fishing and Spinning
- Style: 28″ -Medium
- Grip Type: Full Grip
Pros
- Great weight and smooth reel
- Wonderful action
- Spinning reel design for easy casting
- Available left- and right-hand models
Cons
- The tip can break after several times using it
- Low durability
- The length may be smaller compared to other ice-fishing rods
BUYING ADVICE: If you want a reliable, flexible rod that is great for ice fishing, this is the right choice. The Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing rod has great weight and can reel in fish in a smooth and easy way.
To test it, we went for a walleye fishing trip on a frozen lake. Like most walleye anglers, we can confirm that the reel is really smooth, and the high-visibility tip for improved bite detection works well.
FEATURES: The design of this rod allows for improved line flow and better casting, setting it aside from the competition. In fact, the Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing’s well-made twist lock reel seat and the perfectly balanced GX2 drag system are what makes it distinctive. To check out similar products, read our article for the best walleye ice-fishing rods review.
#3 Best Lightweight - Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye
WHY WE LIKE IT: This medium-light rod has an extraordinary Hidden Handle Design reel seat that combines comfort and functionality in this rod. Plus, the cork handle provides support and a sure grip compared to other walleye spinning rods.
- Material: Blend
- Action: Fast
- Fishing Technique: Spinning
- Style: 4 available, including 6’3″ – Medium Light – 1pcs and 6’6″ – Medium Light – 1pcs
- Grip Type: Split
Pros
- Great TAC and cork handle design that works even in wet conditions
- Available in multiple lengths and actions
- Extremely lightweight titanium frame guides
- Excellent rod for jigging
Cons
- Not a practical rod for heavy lures
- Poor packaging
- Not practical for all types of fishing
BUYING ADVICE: For those looking for a medium rod that has excellent durability and is surprisingly lightweight, this is the one for you!
To make sure that it’s really as light as it’s advertised, we decided to take this great rod with us and pair it with a 4 lb line. We noticed that the micro guides provided excellent line management and that the rod had a very natural cast.
FEATURES: The TAC and cord handle make the Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye perfect for any weather condition. Add to this the 24-ton carbon blank construction and titanium frame guides, and you have the best walleye rod that is truly different from the alternatives.
#4 Best Casting Rod - Daiwa Bass AirdX Spinning Rod (2-Piece)
WHY WE LIKE IT: A durable backbone and overall high-quality graphite blank construction are the reel-in points of this black bass and walleye catching rod. Moreover, it can be used for various fishing techniques, but it is proven to work best with casting.
- Material: Graphite
- Color: Black
- Handle Material: Aluminium
- Fishing Technique: Spinning and casting
- Size: 7 inches
- Grip Type: Spilt
Pros
- Offers strength, sensitivity, and power
- Great friction reduction
- Smooth line movement
- “Braiding-X” construction
Cons
- Some anglers don't like that the hook latch is below the reel
- The reel seat locking ring is thin
- Not recommended for large game fish
BUYING ADVICE: In the market for a lightweight rod that would go perfectly with your casting technique? The Daiwa Bass AirdX Spinning Rod (2-Piece) is a great example of this! It offers the best combination of strength, power, and sensitivity, making it an excellent choice for those that want to fish for walleye in freshwater.
We tested this medium-power action rod with a 15.4 pounds dummy load and felt the rod’s sensitivity firsthand. However, we will describe it as a medium light rod since the bass we caught was around 5 pounds.
FEATURES: The aluminum oxide guides, graphite composite blank, and solid tip make this rod fitting for every fishing style. The rod length, rod power, and holder are perfectly balanced compared to many similar fishing rods in the industry which makes it best walleye rod for casting.
#5 Best Spinning Rod - Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite is a newer model in the Ugly Stik series. It can be used by fishermen of all skill levels and offers a mix of power and sensitivity. We liked that it is lightweight and straightforward, making it perfect for spinning.
- Material: Blend
- Size: 9 available, including 6′-Medium-2pc, 6′-Medium Heavy-1pc, and 6’6″-Medium-1pc
- Grip Style: Split
- Color: Multi
- Fishing Technique: Spinning
- Handle Material: Cork
Pros
- It has a 7-year warranty
- Tailored reel seat for increased comfort
- 35% more graphite for a lighter weight
- Ultra-high sensitivity of the line
Cons
- Not suitable for 1/4 oz or fewer lures
- Poor packaging
- It may be too light for some users
BUYING ADVICE: For those that want a spinning rod that can help them catch various types of fish, not just walleye, the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite should do the trick. It is more lightweight than other rods in this review and has tailored reel seats to double the comfort.
We tested the casting from a kayak and liked its accuracy. We also tried the shorter rods, which were slightly better than the longer rods, and very sturdy under load.
FEATURES: A fantastic attribute of the Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite is that it can be paired up with any line. It comes with 35% more graphite to elevate the lightness of this rod but still keep its sturdy feel. The added clear tip for additional strength sets this rod apart from the other walleye spinning rod options and makes it best walleye rod for spinning.
#6 Best Premium - St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament
WHY WE LIKE IT: The St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament has a unique taper design, which provides optimal power and lifting strength. It’s among the best walleye rod choices because it is made from quality materials and has advanced reinforced technology to boost its game.
- Material: Blend
- Color: Tournament Blue Pearl
- Fishing Technique: Casting
- Action: Heavy/Mod-Fast
- Grip Type: Split
- Handle Material: Cork
Pros
- Easy casting rod
- Very long durability
- Good strength
- The solid cozy grip gives a lot of control
Cons
- The craftsmanship of the handle is uncomfortable
- Maybe too powerful for novice anglers
- It is only accessible in one length and one power option
BUYING ADVICE: When looking for a rod that has that premium feel in all aspects, the St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament goes at the top of the list. The advanced reinforcing technology, together with the integrated poly curve (IPC) technology, make this rod smoother, stronger, and more sensitive.
To see what the fuss is all about, we took this walleye fishing rod for a spin. After 12 hours, we can conclude that it has an effortless and accurate cast, even at a longer distance.
FEATURES: The St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament comes equipped with premium components, including Sea Guide X2 guides and Fuji reel seats, for maximum performance and stability. There are Alconite rings and corrosion-control matte frames, as well as several other top-quality features that clearly set it aside from the competition.
#7 Best Budget - Okuma Classic Pro GLT
WHY WE LIKE IT: Okuma Classic Pro GLT & Rods are excellent reliable, long-lasting, and high-performance walleye rods for anyone’s budget. The heavy-duty E-glass blank fabrication and superior strength and sensitivity allow anglers to feel even the slightest bites.
- Material: Stainless Steel, Glass
- Color: Black
- Weight: 0.52 pounds
- Fishing Technique: Casting
- Grip Type: Split
- Handle Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Style: 7 available, including Down Rigger, Precision Trolling, and Salmon
Pros
- Stainless steel frames for more support
- All rods feature a custom mirror-finished rod blank
- You can apply various fishing techniques
- Stainless steel hook keepers for more prominent security
Cons
- Poor packaging
- Low durability
- The top guides may break
BUYING ADVICE: The Okuma Classic Pro GLT is a good walleye trolling rod that is friendly for anyone’s budget. Moreover, you don’t sacrifice quality over price here, as this walleye rod is made of stainless steel.
When we decided to test this great walleye rod, we needed time to get used to the triangular grip. We paired it up with a 20dx line counter reel and set ourselves up for some lake fishing. We armed our rod with spoons and dodgers, which caught us a lake trout around 5-6 lb.
FEATURES: The durable titanium oxide guide inserts make this rod one of the toughest in the fishing trade. This unique attribute makes the Okuma Classic Pro GLT one of the most long-lasting rods compared to alternative ones.
Different Types Of Walleye Rods
Spinning
High-quality rods for spinning must be created with carbon fiber. That is because carbon can be adjusted to take on various rod action features.
Jigging
A walleye jigging rod should have fast action, meaning it will need to bend at the tip primarily. Experienced anglers use a medium-power rod with quick action that is usually 7 feet long.
Trolling
The perfect walleye fishing rod for trolling should have a thicker tip. Medium and medium-heavy rods of 7’10” up to 10′ feet long with graphite or fiberglass blanks make great trolling rods for catching walleye.
Selecting the Ideal Walleye Rod: A Guide
Length
The length plays a crucial rod in your overall fishing experience. Of course, it mainly depends on the type of technique you will use.
A good length for a trolling rod for catching walleye is usually 7’10” up to 10’ feet. When it comes to a rigging rod, the ideal length for a comfortable catch is 7’ to 7’6” feet. Last but not least, when you select a great length for a jigging rod, it should be between 5’9” and 6’ feet.
Power
The power of a rod is measured by its stiffness. So ideally, the best rods for catching walleye are trolling rods, jigging rods, and live bait rigging rods. However, you should take into consideration the heaviness of the rod, too, as it plays a key part in the power.
Namely, the jigging rods are lightweight in design, the rigging ones are light to medium-light rods, and the trolling rods are medium to medium-heavy.
Action
You will choose the rod’s action depending on the environment you plan to fish for walleye and the time of the year. Choose between fast or extra fast action, moderate action rod, and slow action one.
For example, if you plan to fish in deep waters or swift currents, you should take the medium-heavy rod that bends more in the middle of the blank.
Line Weight
The weight line can be chosen depending on your rod, its specifications, and, of course, the weight of the catch you plan on taking home. There are also other factors, such as how visible it is in the water, so you won’t spook the fish.
One of the more affordable lines is 6 – 8 Monofilament. On the other hand, pro anglers and experienced ones believe that the top line for catching walleye is 8-12 pound test fluorocarbon since it is not visible in the water.
Durability
Generally, fishing rods must last 10-15 years, but they can last even longer with appropriate maintenance – up to 20 or 50 years. The feature that plays a key role in determining a rod’s durability is naturally the material from which it is made.
Materials
Usually, manufacturers create rod models with graphite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a composite blend of the mentioned materials. Out of these, fiberglass is the strongest material, guaranteeing long years of use. However, it also means that it’s the heaviest and least sensitive.
Best Walleye Rods: Final Thoughts
Personal and subjective, selecting a best walleye rod revolves around two key questions: maximize bite rate and minimize lost fish. Scrutinize each element to avoid sacrificing durability or sensitivity for aesthetics. Surprisingly, overlooked rods often excel as my top choices for peak walleye fishing performance.
1. Cadence CR5 Spinning – Best Overall Walleye Rod
2. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing – Best Combo Walleye Rod
3. Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye – Best Lightweight Walleye Rod
4. Daiwa Bass AirdX Spinning Rod (2-Piece) – Best Casting Walleye Rod
5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite – Best Spinning Walleye Rod
6. St. Croix Rods Legend Tournament – Best Premium Walleye Rod
7. Okuma Classic Pro GLT – Best Budget Walleye Rod
Walleye Rod Frequently Asked Questions
What size rod is best for walleye?
For beginners, using a lighter rod and reels will be an excellent combo. But in all cases, you can buy a 6-inch mid-light, quick-action spinning rod with a medium-sized 30 reel and monofilament fishing line with a test strength of 8 to 12 lbs.
How big can walleyes get?
Generally, male walleye grow out to 24 inches. Females mature when they are 4 years of age and grow to 15 inches long.
Do I really need different rods for walleye fishing?
Not necessarily, but depending on the technique you use for walleye fishing, some rods work better than others.