Best Freshwater Fishing Rods of 2025

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

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Freshwater fishing rods are an essential tool for any fishing enthusiast who enjoys freshwater angling. These rods are specifically designed for fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams where the water is not salty. They are made with high-quality materials that can withstand the pressure of catching a variety of freshwater fish species. Freshwater fishing rods come in different lengths, power, and action, allowing anglers to choose the perfect rod for their fishing needs. They are designed to be lightweight, easy to handle, and flexible, making them ideal for casting and reeling in fish. With the right freshwater fishing rod, anglers can have a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos Cover #TOP 1
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Okuma Celilo Graphite Freshwater Rods Cover #TOP 2
Okuma Celilo Graphite Freshwater Rods
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 3
Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Freshwater Fishing Rods

Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos

1.8mHBSXY with bag-CA
1.8M/5.91FT
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos Cover
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole Spinning Reels Fishing Carrier Bag for Travel Saltwater Freshwater Fishing-1.8M/5.91FT

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos is a great choice for any angler looking for a lightweight and portable fishing rod. The rod is made of high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass, making it hard and durable. The reel has 13 + 1 corrosion resistant smooth ball bearings, precision matched gears and a powerful 5.5:1 gear ratio. The package also includes a carrier bag, three fishing lures, fishing line, and other necessary accessories. Customers have praised the product for its quality and convenience, although some have reported that the rod can be fragile and the included tackle is of average quality.

What We Like
Lightweight
Portable
Easy to assemble

Okuma Celilo Graphite Freshwater Rods

OKUCES662ULB
Black
6' 6"
Okuma Celilo Graphite Freshwater Rods Cover
Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light Freshwater Rods, CE-S-662ULb, Black

The Okuma Celilo Graphite Freshwater Rods are designed with an IM-8 carbon blank that is lightweight, responsive, and durable. The Aluminum Oxide Guide Inserts provide strength and durability, making them ideal for braided, monofilament, and fluorocarbon lines. A stainless steel hook keeper is available on all models to keep your bait and hook securely attached. The premium fore and rear grips on all models provide a comfortable grip for extended fishing trips.

What We Like
Lightweight, durable, and responsive carbon blank design
Strong and durable Aluminum Oxide Guide Inserts ideal for different lines
Stainless steel hook keeper keeps bait and hook securely attached
Premium fore and rear grips provide comfortable grip for extended fishing trips

Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod

VENGC70-6
Multi
Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod Cover
Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod, 1-Piece Graphite Medium Heavy Power Fishing Rod for Freshwater or Saltwater Fishing, Shock Absorbing Tip

The Abu Garcia 7’ Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod is a balanced and lightweight 1-piece rod designed for on-the-water technique and durability. It features 24-ton graphite construction, 8 stainless steel guides with titanium oxide inserts, and a durable reel seat that can stand up to extreme exposure. The high density EVA handle provides greater sensitivity and durability while remaining comfortable over the long haul. This rod is perfect for freshwater or saltwater fishing with all bait applications.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable construction
Excellent sensitivity and balance
Can handle intense battles

Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit

YSFYGJLJB
Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit Cover
Sougayilang Saltwater Freshwater Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit (Silver Kits with Bag)

The Sougayilang Fly Fishing Rod with Reel Combo Kit includes a 2.5ft shipping length fishing rod, fishing rod bag, aluminum alloy fly fishing reel, fly fishing line, backing line, tapered leader, Braided Loop Connectors, 12pcs fly fishing flies, fly fishing box, and all of these in a convenient fishing case, making it easy to carry around. The 8.85ft 4-section fishing rod is made of carbon fiber which is super lightweight, while the fishing reel is made from die-cast aluminum with a one-way clutch bearing for smooth drag engagement. This combo kit also includes everything you need to start fly fishing, making it perfect for beginners.

What We Like
Convenient to carry around with the fishing case
Super lightweight carbon fiber fishing rod
Includes everything needed to start fly fishing

PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

7.11347E+11
1.8M 5.91FT
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Cover
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos - Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole - Spinning Reel 12 +1 Shielded Bearings Stainless Steel BB,Travel Saltwater Freshwater Full Kit 5.91FT

PLUSINNO Fishing Combos are the perfect choice for anglers who want a versatile and durable fishing setup. The telescopic fishing rod is made from high-density carbon fiber reinforced with fiberglass composite, providing power, elasticity, and durability. It features welded stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts for superior casting distance and accuracy. The reel, with its CNC machine cut collapsible handle and 12+1 corrosion-resistant smooth ball bearings, offers a comfortable and smooth fishing experience. This lightweight and portable combo is easy to transport and store, making it ideal for fishing trips. Whether you're fishing in saltwater or freshwater, this full kit has everything you need to enjoy fishing wherever and whenever you want. PLUSINNO Fishing Combos also make a great gift for any fishing enthusiast.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable
Lightweight
#TOP 6

BalanZze Telescopic Fishing Combo

BalanZze
2.1M 6.89FT
BalanZze Telescopic Fishing Combo Cover
Collapsible Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, BalanZze Telescopic Fishing Rod with Spinning Reel, Portable Collapsible Fishing Rod Kit for Travel Saltwater and Freshwater

The BalanZze Fishing Combo is an excellent choice for anglers who enjoy fishing in both saltwater and freshwater. This portable telescopic fishing rod made from carbon fiber is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for travel. The high-quality spinning reel is crafted from corrosion-resistant aluminum, ensuring durability in all weather conditions. With a comfortable EVA handle, you can maintain a solid grip, giving you better control while fishing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this combo is designed to enhance your fishing experience.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Durable spinning reel
Comfortable EVA handle
Suitable for all anglers
#TOP 7

SEASIR Stream Ultralight Fishing Rod

SEASIR
Baitcasting
SEASIR Stream Ultralight Fishing Rod Cover
SEASIR Stream Fishing Rod, Ultralight Spinning Rod Travel Bait Casting Rod, 2 Piece, Fuji A O Ring Guide, Solid Wood Handle, 40T Carbon Fiber, Compact Fishing Pole for Saltwater Freshwater Trout Bass

The SEASIR Stream Rod offers a premium fishing experience with its lightweight carbon fiber construction and comfortable solid wood handle. The unique texture ensures a non-slip grip, allowing you to maintain control while fishing. Its two-piece design enhances both strength and sensitivity, making it easier for you to detect even the slightest bites. With high-quality Fuji A O Ring guides, this rod minimizes friction and reduces the chances of line tangling, ensuring smooth casting. Perfect for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, the SEASIR Stream Rod is designed for versatility and ease of use.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Sensitive to fish bites
Smooth casting performance
Durable and stable design

KastKing Progressive Glass Spinning Rods

slate blue
5'6"
KastKing Progressive Glass Spinning Rods Cover
KastKing Progressive Glass Spinning Rods, 5'6"- ML -2 pcs

The KastKing Progressive Glass Spinning Rods are designed to offer power, easy casting, and exceptional value for all fishing enthusiasts. The full length cork handles and solid stainless steel, double footed guides make them beautiful and comfortable to use. With 9 different 2 pc rods, ranging from a light power 5'6" model to a heavy power 10' model, these rods can handle various species, even in saltwater. They are classic designs that you'll enjoy using and want to pass on to new family members.

What We Like
Powerful, easy casting, 100% glass blanks
Full length cork handles offer beauty and comfort
Premium components ensure high performance and exceptional value

SEASIR Grandmaster Portable Fishing Rod

SEASIR
Casting
2.4m
SEASIR Grandmaster Portable Fishing Rod Cover
SEASIR Grandmaster Fishing Rod, Portable Spinning/Bait-Caster Rod 2-Piece, Compact Fishing Rod, Travel Surf Rod Medium-Fast, Carbon Fiber Fishing Pole for Saltwater Freshwater Trout Bass

The SEASIR Grandmaster Rod is designed for both spinning and baitcasting, featuring a two-piece construction that enhances strength and sensitivity. With a line weight capacity of 7-16LB, you can easily catch a variety of fish, from panfish to bass, in both freshwater and saltwater. Its smooth performance is ensured by seven stainless steel and ceramic guides, which minimize friction and prevent tangling. Weighing only 169g, the rod is made from 30 Ton carbon fiber, providing durability without the extra weight, making it comfortable to handle during long fishing trips.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Sensitive for various species
Durable construction
Easy to set up

Sougayilang Fishing Pole, 30 Ton Carbon Fiber 2Pc Rod

HYC-JSQB180L
5.9ft-M/MH-Fast-2pc
Sougayilang Fishing Pole, 30 Ton Carbon Fiber 2Pc Rod Cover
Sougayilang Fishing Pole, 30 Ton Carbon Fiber Sensitive 2Pc Baitcasting Rod & Spinning Rod for Freshwater or Saltwater, Tournament Quality Fishing Rod with 2 Tips for Bass-Blue-5.9FT-Casting

The Sougayilang Fishing Pole is designed for freshwater or saltwater fishing, with a 30-ton carbon matrix blank technology and twin-tip rods that offer medium and medium-heavy power. Its special spigot joint design ensures smooth power transmission between the two sections of the fishing rod, which can extend the service life. The Megalodon series fishing rods is lightweight, sensitive, and features high-quality components, such as a cork handle, a solid reel seat, and stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts.

What We Like
Two kinds of power and twin-tip rods offer two kinds of fishing fun.
Special spigot joint design ensures smooth power transmission and extends the service life.
Lightweight and sensitive, with high-quality components.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size rod is best for freshwater fishing?

Rods under 6'6” are ideal for trout, panfish, and younger anglers. Longer rods over 7' are popular for some bass fishing techniques such as using swimbaits and crankbaits and longer rods are also the go-to choice for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead.

2. What is the difference between saltwater and freshwater rods?

The main difference between freshwater and saltwater rods is that rods made for saltwater are made of corrosion-resistant materials. Yes, you can use saltwater rods for freshwater and vice versa, but just make sure to rinse and dry your rods off after every trip (especially saltwater trips).

3. How long should a freshwater fishing rod be?

A short (6 feet or less) rod is ideal if you want to make short, accurate casts. When pinpoint accuracy is less critical, a long rod (over 7 feet) is the way to go.

Editor's Notes

During our freshwater fishing rod research, we found 24 freshwater fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 57,461 customer reviews through our big data system to write the freshwater fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose freshwater fishing rods with an average price of $34.02.

The freshwater fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of freshwater fishing rods, including Sougayilang, OKUMA, Abu Garcia, PLUSINNO, BalanZze. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 581 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.