Best Bamboo Fishing Rods of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Bamboo fishing rods are a classic and traditional option for anglers who appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of a handcrafted rod. Made from high-quality bamboo, these rods offer a smooth and accurate casting experience, while also being lightweight and durable. They are perfect for fishing in streams, rivers, and lakes, and can handle a variety of fish species. Bamboo fishing rods are also environmentally friendly and sustainable, making them a great choice for eco-conscious anglers. With their timeless design and superior performance, bamboo fishing rods are a must-have for any serious angler.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shakespeare Micro 5'6" Spinning Rod Cover #TOP 1
Shakespeare Micro 5'6" Spinning Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 2
Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 3
Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Bamboo Fishing Rods

Shakespeare Micro 5'6" Spinning Rod

Shakespeare
MCRSP562L
Black
5'6" - Light - 2pc
Shakespeare Micro 5'6" Spinning Rod Cover
Shakespeare Micro 5'6" Spinning Rod, 2-Piece Fishing Rod, Graphite Composite Blank, Light Rod Power, Comfortable Full Cork Handle

The Shakespeare Micro Rod is designed for anglers who prefer lighter lures and lines, ensuring a fun and engaging fishing experience. With a line rating of 4-8 lbs, this rod offers reliable performance while being lightweight and easy to handle. Its graphite composite construction provides both durability and flexibility, making it ideal for light and ultra-light fishing. Additionally, the rod features six stainless steel guides that resist wear and tear, enhancing your fishing trips even in tough conditions. You'll appreciate the comfortable full cork handle, which allows for all-day use without sacrificing grip or comfort.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Comfortable cork handle
Reliable performance
Six stainless steel guides

Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod

1121420
Multi
8 feet
Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod Cover
Berkley 8’ Big Game Spinning Rod, Two Piece Surf Rod, 12-30lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 1-4 oz. Lure Rating

The Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod is an 8', medium-heavy 2-piece rod with an X-veil high modulus blank that provides strength and sensitivity for catching big game fish. The rod also features a Fenwick custom ergonomic reel seat, titanium guides with slim profile zirconium inserts, and an EVA and TAC split grip handle for comfort during long fishing trips. With a limited lifetime warranty, this rod is perfect for serious anglers who want a reliable and durable tool for their fishing adventures.

What We Like
High modulus blank for strength and sensitivity
Ergonomic reel seat for comfortable handling
Titanium guides with zirconium inserts for smooth line flow

Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Fishing Rod

CWD2-702MS
7' - Medium - 2pc
Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Fishing Rod Cover
Berkley 7’ Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod, One Piece Spinning Rod, 6-14lb Line Rating, Medium Rod Power, Fast Action, 1/8-3/4 oz. Lure Rating, red

The Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Fishing Rod is a 2-piece, medium action fishing rod with a hybrid design construction. The blank through handle construction provides unmatched sensitivity and it is equipped with lightweight stainless steel guides and inserts. The cork handles offer added comfort and grip for a more enjoyable fishing experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and sensitive
Excellent value for price
Well-built and sturdy
Fast shipping
Comfortable handle grip
#TOP 4

Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod 7' - Medium

USESP702M
Multicolor
7' - Medium - 2pc
Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod 7' - Medium Cover
Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Elite Spinning Rod, Two-Piece, 6-14lb Line Rating, Medium Power, Fast Action, 1/4-5/8 oz. Lure Rating

The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod 7' - Medium is a great choice for anglers looking for a reliable and durable fishing rod. It features Ugly Tech construction with added graphite for lighter weight and increased sensitivity, Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides for maximum durability, and cork handles for comfort during lengthy fishing outings. It has a line rating of 8-17 pounds and is suitable for spinning technique. Customers have praised the rod for its good value, comfortable handle, and great quality.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Great sensitivity
Comfortable grip
Well-balanced performance
Good for various fishing types

Jenseits 7'0" Medium Heavy Spinning Rod

Spin fishing rod
black
Jenseits 7'0" Medium Heavy Spinning Rod Cover
Jenseits 7'0" Spinning Fishing Rod – 2-Piece Carbon Fiber, Medium Heavy Power Extra Fast Action, 3A Cork Handle, Ceramic Guides – Precision Rod for Bass & Salmon Fishing

The Jenseits 7'0" Spinning Rod is designed to give you quick and precise control, perfect for catching bass, salmon, and other larger freshwater fish. Its medium heavy power and extra fast action let you react instantly when a fish bites, helping you set the hook with confidence. The rod features a high-quality 3A cork handle, which feels comfortable in your hand and reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions. Plus, the ceramic guides smooth out your line’s movement, allowing for longer and more accurate casts. This rod is built to enhance your fishing experience with speed, comfort, and precision.

What We Like
Fast, precise hooksets
Extra fast tip sensitivity
Comfortable 3A cork handle
Ceramic line guides
#TOP 6

Zebco Z-Cast Casting Fishing Rod

ZCASTC56TEL
5'6"
Zebco Z-Cast Casting Fishing Rod Cover
Zebco Z-Cast Casting Fishing Rod, Extendable 17-Inches to 5-Foot 6-Inch Telescopic Durable Z-Glass Fishing Pole, Comfortable EVA Rod Handle, Shock-Ring Guides, Medium Power, Red

Zebco Z-Cast Casting Fishing Rod, also known as the Zebco Z-Cast Rod, is a versatile and durable fishing pole that is perfect for on-the-go fishing trips. With its telescopic design, this rod can easily extend from 17 inches to 5 feet 6 inches, making it convenient to store and travel with. The balanced EVA rod handle provides all-day comfort, reducing grip-fatigue and allowing you to fish comfortably for longer periods of time. Constructed with Zebco's Z-Glass, a durable and flexible fiberglass, this rod offers medium power and the ability to cast longer distances while maintaining quality hook-setting power. The Twist-Lock reel seat and durable shock-ring guides ensure lightweight precision and can withstand even the toughest fish. Whether you're catching panfish or trout, the Zebco Z-Cast Rod is ready to help you reel in your prized catch every time. Trust in Zebco, a company that has been inviting people to explore the outdoors since 1949.

What We Like
All-day comfort
Powerful and flexible
Lightweight precision
#TOP 7

Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod

USCBICE36M
Black/Red
36" - Medium - 1pc
Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod Cover
Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod, 1 Piece Fishing Rod, Medium Rod Power, 4-8 lb Line Rating

Features
Ugly Tech Construction Featuring 100% 24-Ton Graphite For A Lightweight And Well-Balanced Rod.
UGLY STIK CARBON ICE 36" SPINNING ROD: Combines Trusted Ugly Stik Toughness With Crisp Action And Increased Sensitivity Tailored For Ice Fishing Applications.
SOLID GRAPHITE TIP: Provides Heightened Sensitivity, Allowing You To Detect Even The Lightest Bites For Improved Response Time.
GRIP DESIGN: The EVA And Golf Style Split Grip Handle Design Offers Better Grip And Unmatched Durability For Superior Comfort, Control, And Confident Handling All Day Long.
6 PVD Coated Ugly Tuff One-Piece Stainless-Steel Guides With A Smooth Hard Coating Reduces Line Fray.
#TOP 8

KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Fishing Rod

Black
Spin-6'8"- M/MH
KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Fishing Rod Cover
KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Fishing Rod, Lightweight KastFlex IM6 Graphite Spinning & Casting Rod, Fuji O-Ring Guide, Dual Tips Section for Different Powers, EVA Grip, 6'8" M & MH Spinning Rod

Features
FUJI O-RING GUIDE DESIGN: Finished With High-Quality, Durable Fuji O-Ring Guide, The Fishing Rods Delivery Smooth And Efficient Line Passage With Minimal Friction. The 360-Degree Protection Reduces Wear And Tear, Minimizes The Risk Of Tangles, Guaranteeing Reliable Performance With All Line Types, Braid/mono/fluorocarbon.
LIGHTWEIGHT AND HIGH-SENSITIVITY: KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Fishing Rods Are Made With Lightweight KastFlex IM6 Graphite Material, That Offer The Ideal Combination Of Power, Durability, And Sensitivity. Suitable For Anglers Of All Skill Levels And Even Experts Will Love These Rods.
VERSATILE & COMFORTABLE CONSTRUCTION: All Zephyr Fishing Rods Include A Drop Shot Hook Keeper, Located Behind The Handle. This Design Accommodates Both Drop Shot Weights, Hard Baits And Individual Hooks. The Rod Features A High-Density Black EVA Foregrip, Handle, And Rear Grip, Ensuring Maximum Comfort And Slip Resistant Performance In All Conditions.
Power Transition System (PTS): All KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Rods Are Made In Two-Pieces For Easy Transport And Storage. The Unique PTS Technology Will Make Them Feel And Perform Like One-Piece Performance Rods.
INTERCHANGEABLE DUAL POWER TIPS: The Dual Power Tips Design Offer Alternative Power Options To Adapt To Different Fishing Conditions. Each Tip Is Clearly Marked At The Joint For Easy Identification. Both Tips Feature High-Quality Fuji O-Rings To Ensure Long Casts And Line Protection.
#TOP 9

KastKing Crixus 7ft Casting Rod

Black
7 feet
KastKing Crixus 7ft Casting Rod Cover
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods, Casting Rod 7ft-Medium Heavy - Fast-2pcs

The KastKing Crixus Rod offers impressive performance for anglers, featuring KastFlex IM6 graphite construction that balances power and sensitivity. This means you can enjoy a lightweight feel without sacrificing strength, making it suitable for various fishing environments, whether freshwater or saltwater. The comfortable Golf Style SuperPolymer handle ensures a secure grip, allowing you to maintain control even in tough conditions. Additionally, the stainless-steel guides with Zirconium Oxide rings enhance casting distance and durability, accommodating different types of fishing lines. With 17 models available, you can easily find the perfect rod for your fishing needs.

What We Like
Lightweight and sensitive
Comfortable, slip-resistant handle
Durable stainless-steel guides
17 models for various fishing

PLUSINNO 24 Ton Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

FPLFBO01-FBA
1.8M 5.91FT
PLUSINNO 24 Ton Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Cover
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos -24 Ton Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole - Spinning Reel 12 +1 Shielded Bearings Stainless Steel BB-Free Carrier Bag Case, Travel Saltwater Freshwater Fishing

The PLUSINNO Fishing Rod Combo is a complete set designed especially for beginners. It includes everything you need to start fishing right away, such as a fishing rod, reel, line, lures, hooks, and a convenient carrying bag. The rod is made from high-density 24-ton carbon fiber reinforced with fiberglass, giving you strong, flexible, and durable performance for various fishing conditions. The stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts help you cast farther with better accuracy while protecting your fishing line from heat damage. The included spinning reel features smooth, corrosion-resistant ball bearings and an adjustable handle, making it easy to control your fishing experience. This combo is ready to use and ideal for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

What We Like
Collapsible and compact design
Durable construction
Smooth casting reel
Great value for beginners
Convenient carrying case
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are bamboo rods worth anything?

Yes, antique bamboo rods are unique and sought-after collection pieces. But you won't become a millionaire if you have or find one! The most expensive bamboo rod sold in an auction was about 20'000$ worth. But more generally if you get 3000$ this is a very good price.

2. Is bamboo a good fishing pole?

Bamboo fly rods are ideal for the most subtle and delicate of presentations, and for anglers who enjoy the rod's slow and very flexible action. Much like fiberglass fly rods, bamboo fly rods deliver a unique feel and experience when battling a fish. The give of the fly rod helps to protect light tippets from breaking.

3. Do they still make bamboo fly rods?

Today, more than 150 years later, Orvis still builds some of the best bamboo fishing rods on the market. These rods are dedicated freshwater quivers in the 4 – 6wt range and all handbuilt in the USA.

4. What is a split bamboo fly rod worth?

It should be noted, though, that many outstanding split cane fly rods are still being made today by a legion of dedicated craftsmen, and home builders. The quality of these rods may even exceed the quality of the old classics. These modern rods often sell for more than $1,000, and people wait in line to get them.

Editor's Notes

During our bamboo fishing rod research, we found 24 bamboo fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 82,551 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bamboo fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose bamboo fishing rods with an average price of $33.13.

The bamboo fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bamboo fishing rods, including Shakespeare, Berkley, Ugly Stik, Jenseits, Zebco. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.