Best Fast Fishing Rods of 2025

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

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Fast fishing rods are a must-have for any serious angler. These rods are designed to be lightweight and highly responsive, allowing for quick and accurate casting. They are perfect for targeting fast-moving fish species such as bass, trout, and salmon. Fast fishing rods come in a variety of lengths and power ratings, making it easy to find the perfect rod for any fishing situation. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, a fast fishing rod can take your angling game to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods Cover #TOP 1
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods
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
Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod 7' - Medium Cover #TOP 3
Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod 7' - Medium
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fast Fishing Rods

#TOP 1

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods

AMEP-Crixus Rod-8
Black
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods Cover
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods, Spinning Rod 7ft -Medium Heavy - Fast-2pcs

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods are powerful, sensitive and budget-friendly. The rods range in power from lightweight to heavy with 5' to 7'6'' lengths. They are perfect for any freshwater species and saltwater fishing. SuperPolymer handles provide maximum control over the fishing rod in all conditions. The rods include high-quality stainless-steel guide frames with Zirconium Oxide rings that deliver long, smooth casts with fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braided fishing line. There are 20 different power, action, and length combinations available.

What We Like
Budget-friendly with high-quality performance
Comfortable and slip-resistant SuperPolymer handles
Stainless-steel guide frames with Zirconium Oxide rings for long, smooth casts

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
#TOP 3

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 Spinning Rod, 6-14lb Line Rating, Medium Rod 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
Ugly Tech construction with added graphite for lighter weight and increased sensitivity
Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides for maximum durability
Cork handles for comfort during lengthy fishing outings
Good value and great quality
#TOP 4

KastKing Spartacus II Fishing Rod

Stryker Green
6'8" - MH Power
KastKing Spartacus II Fishing Rod Cover
KastKing Spartacus II Twin Tip Fishing Rods, Cast - 6'8" - MH Power - Fast

The KastKing Fishing Rod is designed for your comfort during long fishing sessions, featuring a slip-resistant rubber cork handle. It is constructed from strong 24-ton carbon fiber and IM6 graphite, ensuring you can feel even the slightest bites, which helps improve your catch rate. With the PTS Power Transition System and tangle-free stainless steel guides, you can enjoy greater casting distance and accuracy. Additionally, the ultra-thin Zirconium Oxide Rings minimize friction and prevent line tangling, giving you a smooth casting experience every time you head out on the water.

What We Like
Comfortable grip
Strong and sensitive
Smooth casting
Extra tip included
#TOP 5

Ugly Stik Carbon Casting Fishing Rod

USCBCA701MH
Ugly Stik Carbon Casting Fishing Rod Cover
Ugly Stik 7’ Carbon Casting Rod, One Piece Casting Rod, 12-20lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Fast Action, 1/4-1 oz. Lure Rating, Red

The Ugly Stik Carbon Rod is a one-of-a-kind fishing rod that every angler should have. It features a solid graphite tip, which increases sensitivity while maintaining the legendary toughness that Ugly Stik is known for. The Ugly Tech construction, made of 100% 24-ton graphite, makes this rod lightweight and well-balanced, perfect for long hours of fishing. The one-piece stainless steel Ugly Tuff guides provide maximized durability for use with all types of line, including braid, and eliminate insert pop-outs. The Fuji reel seat adds to the comfort and convenience of using this rod. With the lightest weight ever, this fishing rod is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast.

What We Like
Lightweight
Durable
Sensitive tip

Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod

CWD2-702MHS
Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod Cover
Berkley 7’ Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod, One Piece Spinning Rod, 8-17lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Fast Action, 1/4-1 oz. Lure Rating,Red

The Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod is a one-of-a-kind fishing rod that offers remarkable feel and exceptional performance. Designed with a fast action and a medium-heavy power, this rod is perfect for increased reactivity and versatility. The hybrid design construction provides unmatched sensitivity and responsiveness, while the lightweight design ensures a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience. With its stainless steel guides and inserts, this rod offers added strength and control, resulting in smoother casts every time. The spinning reel seat and Type-C Cork rod handle provide added balance and maximum comfort, reducing hand strain. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, the Berkley Cherrywood HD Spinning Rod is a reliable and dependable choice for your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Remarkable feel
Versatile and reactive
Unmatched sensitivity
#TOP 7

KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods

PG2-2S7MMH New
black
KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods Cover
KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods, Spinning Rod 7ft - Medium and Medium Heavy - Fast - Twin-tip Rod (2 Pcs+ Extra Tip)

KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods feature an amazing quality carbon fiber blank that is strong and accurate, with premium components including world-renowned Fuji O-Ring line guides and tuned ergonomic graphite high-strength reel seats. The PTS hybrid spigot joints transition power smoothly throughout the fishing rod blank, providing smooth power. Available in 29 sizes ranging from ultra-light to heavy power, these rods are great for freshwater and saltwater fishing. They are also very light and have a comfortable grip. KastKing offers a total peace of mind warranty.

What We Like
Amazing quality carbon fiber blank
Premium components including world-renowned Fuji O-Ring line guides and tuned ergonomic graphite high-strength reel seats
Smooth power with PTS hybrid spigot joints transition
Available in 29 sizes ranging from ultra-light to heavy power
Very light and have a comfortable grip
#TOP 8

Ugly Stik® Elite Casting Rod

USECA702UL
Multi
Ugly Stik® Elite Casting Rod Cover
Ugly Stik 7’ Elite Casting Rod, One Piece Casting Rod, 2-6lb Line Rating, Ultra Light Rod Power, Medium Fast Action, 1/32-1/4 oz. Lure Rating

The Ugly Stik® Elite Casting Rod is a strong and sensitive fishing rod with an Ugly Stik clear tip design that provides extra strength where you need it most. Its Ugly Tech construction adds graphite for lighter weight and increased sensitivity, while the Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides offer maximum durability and eliminate insert pop-outs. The exposed blank style reel seats come with cushioned stainless steel hoods, and the cork grips are premium with a logo etched into the handle, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip.

What We Like
Extra strength where you need it most with clear tip design
Lightweight and increased sensitivity with added graphite in the Ugly Tech construction
Maximum durability and no insert pop-outs thanks to Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides
#TOP 9

Abu Garcia Vengeance 7' Casting Rod

VENC70-6
Multi
Abu Garcia Vengeance 7' Casting Rod Cover
Abu Garcia 7' Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod, 1-Piece Rod, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Fast Action, Custom Ergonomic Reel Seat, Comfortable EVA Handle, 24-Ton Graphite Blank

The Abu Garcia Vengeance Rod is designed to enhance your fishing experience with its lightweight and balanced construction, making it easy to handle throughout your time on the water. With a line rating of 12-20LB and a lure capacity of 3/8-1 oz, this rod is perfect for tackling various fishing challenges. Its 24-ton graphite build offers excellent durability while maintaining sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bites. Plus, the eight stainless steel guides ensure smooth line flow, giving you confidence when reeling in your catch.

What We Like
Lightweight and balanced design
Durable graphite construction
Excellent sensitivity
Smooth line flow
#TOP 10

PENN Squadron III 8’ Surf Rod

SQDSFIII1220S80
Titanium/Red/Gold
PENN Squadron III 8’ Surf Rod Cover
PENN Squadron III 8’ Surf Spinning Fishing Rod; 2-Piece, 12-20lb Line Rating, Medium Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3/4-3 oz. Lure Rating, Titanium/Red/Gold

The PENN Squadron III Surf Rod is designed for anglers seeking a reliable and versatile fishing experience. Its two-piece graphite construction makes it lightweight yet sensitive, allowing you to feel every nibble on the line. With a line rating of 12-20 pounds and a lure capacity of 3/4 to 3 ounces, it’s perfect for various fishing conditions. The PENN Dura-Guides enhance durability while protecting your line in both fresh and saltwater. Plus, the rubber shrink tube grip offers excellent comfort and control during intense battles, so you can fish confidently without worrying about losing your grip.

What We Like
Lightweight and sensitive design
Durable stainless steel guides
Comfortable rubber grip
Versatile line and lure ratings
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a fast fishing rod mean?

A fast action rod bends closer to the tip of the rod blank making your lure more sensitive. To be more specific, the added stiffness of fast action rods makes them less flexible, but more powerful. This helps you reel in heavier fish but requires a little more skill to master.

2. What are extra fast rods good for?

Extra-fast action rods deflect near the tip, and then taper very quickly to a stiffer mid and lower section. This design generally delivers maximum sensitivity, great casting accuracy, and the ability to make fast and powerful hook sets.

3. What is the difference between fast and extra fast rod action?

The action refers to how much a rod bends under pressure on the tip either you're casting or have a fish at the end of the line. An extra fast action rod bends just at the tip. A fast action bends in the upper 1/3 to 1/4 of the rod. A moderate-fast action rod bends over the lover 1/3.

Editor's Notes

During our fast fishing rod research, we found 24 fast fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 73,887 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fast fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose fast fishing rods with an average price of $55.26.

The fast fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fast fishing rods, including KastKing, Berkley, Ugly Stik, Abu Garcia, PENN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,221 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.