Best Composite Fishing Rods of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Composite fishing rods are a popular choice among anglers due to their durability and versatility. These rods are constructed using a combination of materials such as graphite, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, resulting in a lightweight yet strong design. The composite construction allows for increased sensitivity and better control when casting and reeling in fish. Additionally, composite fishing rods are able to handle a wide range of fishing techniques, making them a great option for both novice and experienced anglers. Whether you're fishing in freshwater or saltwater, a composite fishing rod is a reliable choice for a successful fishing trip.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shakespeare Micro 7' Spinning Rod Cover #TOP 1
Shakespeare Micro 7' Spinning Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PENN Squadron III Surf Rod Cover #TOP 2
PENN Squadron III Surf Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Sougayilang Chikani FS Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 3
Sougayilang Chikani FS Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Composite Fishing Rods

Shakespeare Micro 7' Spinning Rod

Shakespeare
MCRSP702L
Black
7' - Light - 2pc
Shakespeare Micro 7' Spinning Rod Cover
Shakespeare Micro 7' Spinning Rod, 2-Piece Fishing Rod, Graphite Composite Blank, Light Rod Power, Comfortable Full Cork Handle

The Shakespeare Micro Fishing Rod is designed for anglers who enjoy using lighter lures and lines. With a line rating of 4 to 10 lb, this rod provides reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. Its lightweight graphite composite construction ensures easy handling and responsiveness, making it ideal for light and ultra-light fishing. The rod features six durable stainless steel guides, which help reduce friction and withstand tough conditions. This means you can fish with confidence, knowing your gear can handle the wear and tear. Plus, the full cork handle offers a comfortable grip, allowing you to fish for hours without discomfort.

What We Like
Lightweight and responsive
Durable stainless steel guides
Comfortable full cork handle
Budget-friendly performance
#TOP 2

PENN Squadron III Surf Rod

SQDSFIII1530C10
Titanium/Red/Gold
PENN Squadron III Surf Rod Cover
PENN 10’ Squadron III Surf Conventional Casting Rod, 2-Piece Graphite Composite Fishing Rod, Titanium/Red/Gold

The PENN Surf Rod is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced saltwater anglers. With its medium-heavy power and a line rating of 15-30LB, it offers the strength needed to tackle moderate-sized fish. The rod’s moderate fast action provides a perfect balance of flexibility and responsiveness, making it easier for you to cast lures weighing between 2-6 ounces. Built from durable Graphite Composite, it promises reliability even under tough conditions. Plus, the 8 PENN Dura-Guides ensure your line stays secure, preventing frustrating insert pop-outs during your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Durable Graphite Composite construction
Medium-heavy power for versatility
Flexible with moderate fast action
PENN Dura-Guides for reliability
#TOP 3

Sougayilang Chikani FS Fishing Rod

YJS225
Spinning
Sougayilang Chikani FS Fishing Rod Cover
Sougayilang Spinning & Casting Rods, Strong Carbon&Glass Composite Fishing Rod with Stainless Steel Line Guides for Bass, Trout, Panfish, Catfish - Spinning- 7'6"

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod offers a versatile and reliable option for anglers looking to enhance their fishing experience. Its lightweight design, thanks to high-density carbon fiber combined with fiberglass, allows for better energy transmission and increased sensitivity, ensuring you feel every nibble. This rod is available in various sizes and strengths, making it suitable for catching everything from trout to catfish. Additionally, the comfortable cork grips provide a secure hold, even when wet, allowing you to fish with confidence. Finally, the durable construction ensures that this rod can withstand the test of time and usage.

What We Like
Lightweight and sensitive design
Versatile for various fish types
Comfortable cork grips
Durable construction
#TOP 4

Sougayilang 24-Ton Carbon Fishing Rod

MJC602
6'0"
Sougayilang 24-Ton Carbon Fishing Rod Cover
Sougayilang Fishing Rod 24-Ton Carbon&Glass Fiber Composite Spinning and Casting Rod, 2 Piece for Bass Trout Crappie Travel Fishing- 6'0"- Casting- Golden

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod combines durability and convenience for an enjoyable fishing experience. Its composite glass and carbon fiber construction ensures you can tackle tough conditions without compromising performance. The innovative 2-piece design makes it easy to transport, so you can take it anywhere. With an extended EVA handle, you’ll enjoy comfort during long fishing trips, while the graphite reel seat keeps your reel secure under pressure. Plus, the enhanced front grip gives you the leverage needed to reel in larger catches with confidence.

What We Like
Durable materials
Portable 2-piece design
Comfortable EVA handle
Secure graphite reel seat
Enhanced grip for big fish
#TOP 5

Sougayilang Fishing Rod 2Pc Graphite

LHMC-G-2.1Q-US
Grey-Casting
Sougayilang Fishing Rod 2Pc Graphite Cover
Sougayilang Fishing Rod - Medium 2Pc Graphite Composite Blank Spinning & Casting Rod, Camouflage EVA Grip, Smooth Transition Fishing Pole-Grey-6'10''-Casting

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod is designed to enhance your fishing experience with its medium action and moderate power. Its two-section construction and Graphite Composite Blank ensure that you enjoy both durability and sensitivity, making it easier to feel every bite. Choose between 5'10" and 6'10" lengths to find the perfect fit for your fishing style, whether you prefer spinning or casting. The stylish Camouflage EVA grip not only provides comfort but also a secure hold, so you can focus on reeling in your catch without worrying about losing your grip.

What We Like
Durable Graphite Composite Blank
Comfortable Camouflage EVA grip
Two size options available
Smooth casting and reeling
#TOP 6

OKIAYA Slayer Big Game Rod

OKIAYA
30-50lb Tuna Series
Black and Gold
5.5 Feet
OKIAYA Slayer Big Game Rod Cover
OKIAYA COMPOSIT 80-130LB The Slayer Saltwater Big Game Roller Rod

The OKIAYA Big Game Rod is designed for serious anglers who want reliability in every fishing battle. Its advanced construction features aircraft-grade alloys, ensuring strength during your toughest fights with trophy fish. The composite fiber main shaft offers enhanced sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest nibble. Smooth stainless rollers enhance your casting experience, while durable hardware maintains the rod's attractive appearance over time. This rod meets all IGFA standards, making it a perfect choice for big game competitions. Plus, it comes with a premium rod cover for added protection.

What We Like
Strong and reliable construction
Enhanced sensitivity
Smooth casting experience
Durable and attractive design
Includes rod cover

13 FISHING Wicked Pro Ice Rod

PS-42MH
Black
13 FISHING Wicked Pro Ice Rod Cover
13 FISHING - Wicked Pro Ice Rod - 42" MH (Medium Heavy) - Composite Blank - Split Grip Handle with Evolve Reel Seat - PS-42MH, Black

The 13 FISHING Ice Rod features a composite blank construction, making it both durable and lightweight for easy handling. You will appreciate the custom Evolve reel seat with its soft touch finish, which provides a comfortable grip during extended fishing sessions. The premium cork grips are hand-selected for quality, ensuring a secure and pleasant hold. Additionally, the lightweight stainless steel guides with polished inserts enhance casting performance and reduce line friction, allowing for smoother retrievals. These thoughtful features combine to elevate your ice fishing experience.

What We Like
Durable composite construction
Comfortable Evolve reel seat
High-quality cork grips
Lightweight stainless steel guides
#TOP 8

Lew's KVD Casting Fishing Rod

LKVDCC4
Multi
One Size
Lew's KVD Casting Fishing Rod Cover
Lew's KVD Casting Fishing Rod, IM8 Graphite/Glass Composite Blank with Stainless Steel Guides, Split Grip EVA Handles

The Lew's KVD Rod is designed for serious anglers, featuring premium IM8 graphite blanks that ensure strength and sensitivity. This allows you to feel even the subtlest bites, enhancing your fishing experience. The full contact reel seats on casting models improve blank contact, giving you greater control and responsiveness while reeling in your catch. For spinning models, the rear locking reel seats provide a secure and comfortable fit between the rod and reel, minimizing any wobble. Additionally, the specially designed actions cater to the specifications of Kevin VanDam, ensuring expert performance every time you hit the water.

What We Like
Strong and durable construction
Enhanced sensitivity for better bites
Improved control and responsiveness
Comfortable reel fit
#TOP 9

PENN Battalion II Surf Rod

BATSFII2040C12
Black/Gold
PENN Battalion II Surf Rod Cover
PENN 12’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Casting Rod, 20-40lb Line Rating, 2 Piece Graphite Composite Fishing Rod, Black/Gold

The PENN Surf Rod is designed for strength and versatility, making it perfect for your fishing adventures. With a line rating of 20-40 lbs and a lure capacity of 4-10 ounces, this rod balances power and flexibility, allowing you to tackle various fish sizes with ease. Its durable Graphite Composite construction ensures longevity, even in saltwater conditions. The rod features nine robust Fuji Alconite guides that maintain line strength under pressure, whether you're in fresh or saltwater. Additionally, the lightweight Fuji graphite reel seat provides a reliable anchor for your reel, enhancing your control during fights with big catches.

What We Like
Durable Graphite Composite construction
Strong and flexible performance
Lightweight and dependable reel seat
Robust guides for line strength
#TOP 10

Berkley Shock Casting Rod

BCSHK701MH
Orange
7'-Medium
Berkley Shock Casting Rod Cover
Berkley 7’ Shock Casting Rod, 1 Piece Composite Medium Heavy Power Fishing Rod for Freshwater or Saltwater Fishing, Shock Absorbing Tip, Orange

The Berkley Shock Rod is designed to help you tackle tough fishing conditions with ease. Its one-piece construction enhances sensitivity and responsiveness, allowing you to feel every nibble. The shock-absorbing tip minimizes strain, especially when using braided lines, ensuring that you maintain control during intense battles. With stainless steel guides featuring titanium oxide inserts, you can expect improved strength and smoother casting. Plus, the textured rubber handle offers comfort and grip, reducing hand fatigue while providing a stable connection to your reel.

What We Like
Shock-absorbing tip
Durable stainless steel guides
Comfortable rubber handle
Responsive one-piece design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are composite fishing rods any good?

Like graphite, composite rods can also be high-powered, making them ideal for windy conditions and larger streams. Less likely to snap than graphite but less bendy than fiberglass, composite fishing rods are a great compromise if you just can't choose.

2. Which material is best for fishing rod?

Fiberglass and composites are the most durable and affordable fishing rods on the market but you'll have to manage the extra weight and lack of sensitivity that would come with a carbon fiber or graphite fishing rod.

3. What are the strongest fishing rods made of?

Adding to tougher resins, stronger graphite fibers are increasing strength and reducing weight while improving performance. Recently, Century released rods made with graphene.

4. What are carbon fishing rods used for?

Carbon Fishing rods are an exceptional alternative to fiberglass and composite rods. They are at least as tough, if not tougher, and can give you all the fish-fighting power needed to land your next big catch. However, they are more rigid than the fiberglass/ composite rods but also lighter.

Editor's Notes

During our composite fishing rod research, we found 24 composite fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 11,822 customer reviews through our big data system to write the composite fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose composite fishing rods with an average price of $47.14.

The composite fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of composite fishing rods, including Shakespeare, PENN, Sougayilang, OKIAYA, 13 FISHING. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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.