Best Shakespeare Fishing Rods of 2026

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

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Shakespeare is a well-known brand in the world of fishing, offering a wide range of fishing rods suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. Their fishing rods are made with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and strength while fishing. Shakespeare's fishing rods come in different lengths, weights, and actions, making it easy for anglers to choose the perfect rod for their fishing needs. Whether you're fishing in freshwater or saltwater, Shakespeare has a fishing rod that will help you catch your next big fish.

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
Tripquips 6.9ft Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Cover #TOP 2
Tripquips 6.9ft Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 3
Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shakespeare 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
#TOP 2

Tripquips 6.9ft Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

XHG2.1-LZ
6.9ft
Tripquips 6.9ft Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Cover
Tripquips Fishing Pole Combo, 6.9ft 2Pcs Telescopic Rods Set, Collapsible Fishing Rods, 2PCS Spinning Reel Set with Carrier Bag Freshwater Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Kits(Blue and Purple)

The Tripquips Telescopic Fishing Set is perfect for anyone who enjoys fishing and wants gear that's easy to carry. The rods are made from carbon fiber, making them strong and durable for different fishing trips. Each rod extends to 6.9 feet but collapses so you can easily store or travel with them. The set includes two spinning reels with handles that can be switched from left to right, giving you more control and comfort no matter your preference. Plus, you get a tackle box filled with various lures, hooks, and extra line, so you’re ready to fish right away without needing extra gear.

What We Like
Easy setup and use
Lightweight and portable case
Telescopic, compact storage
Includes full starter kit
Good value for beginners

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 4

Ugly Stik Elite 7’ Spinning Rod

USESP702UL
Brown/Black
Ugly Stik Elite 7’ Spinning Rod Cover
Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Elite Spinning Rod, Two-Piece, 2-6lb Line Rating, Ultra Light Power, Medium Fast Action, 1/32-1/8 oz. Lure Rating,Brown/Black

The Ugly Stik Elite Rod offers a clear tip design that strengthens the most vulnerable part of the rod, giving you extra confidence when fighting fish. Its construction includes added graphite, which makes the rod lighter and more sensitive, so you can feel even the slightest bites. The stainless steel guides are built as a single piece, making them tough and long-lasting while preventing inserts from popping out, reducing maintenance worries. Additionally, the exposed blank reel seats come with cushioned stainless steel hoods, providing a comfortable and secure grip on your reel during long fishing sessions.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Excellent casting distance
Great value for price
Strong and flexible tip
Ideal for larger fish

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
Excellent sensitivity
Durable ultralight build
Great value for money
Handles big fish easily
Versatile with various reels
#TOP 6

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

Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos

1.8mHBSXY with bag-CA
5.91 ft
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
Easy setup and use
Lightweight and portable
Good value for money
Quality lures included
Compact telescopic design
#TOP 8

Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod

USCBICE36ML
Black/Red
Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod Cover
Ugly Stik 36" Carbon Ice Spinning Rod, 1 Piece Fishing Rod, Medium Light Rod Power, 2-6 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 9

KastKing Zephyr Dual Tip Fishing Rod

Black
Spin-7'0"- 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, 7' 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 10

Ugly Stik 36" GX2 Ice Spinning Rod

USGXSPICE36MH
Black/Red
Ugly Stik 36" GX2 Ice Spinning Rod Cover
Ugly Stik 36" GX2 Ice Spinning Rod, 1-Piece Fishing Rod, Medium Heavy Rod Power, 6-10 lb Line Rating

Features
ENHANCED SENSITIVITY: An Ergonomic Reel Seat With Exposed Blank Provides A Better Hand Feel And Increased Sensitivity. EVA Rod Handles Are Lightweight And Slip-Resistant.
UGLY STIK 36" GX2 ICE SPINNING ROD: The Next-Gen Ugly Stik, Featuring Better Balance And Improved Components For Enhanced Durability. From The Makers Of The #1 Rod Series In The World.
UGLY TECH DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Constructed From Graphite And Fiberglass For A Better Balanced Weight Rod, While Maintaining Legendary Toughness And Strength. Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rods Are Covered By A 10 Year Warranty You Won't Find Anywhere Else.
UGLY STIK CLEAR TIP: 1-Piece Fishing Rod Features Ugly Stik Clear Tip Design For Strength And Sensitivity. 6 - 10 Lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Power. Built Tough To Stand Up To What's Next.
6 DURABLE UGLY TUFF GUIDES: PVD-Coated One-Piece Stainless Steel Guides Provide Excellent Corrosion Resistance And Durability To Reduce Line Fray.
Buying Guide Image

The Best Shakespeare Fishing Rods to Buy Right Now

How to Choose the Right Shakespeare Fishing Rod

Introduction

Fishing is a beloved pastime for many people, and a Shakespeare fishing rod is a popular choice among anglers. With so many different types and styles of rods available, it can be overwhelming to try and choose the right one. In this article, we will provide some tips and guidelines to help you select the perfect Shakespeare fishing rod for your needs.

Consider Your Fishing Style

One of the first things to consider when choosing a Shakespeare fishing rod is your personal fishing style. Do you prefer to fish from a boat or the shore? Are you targeting small or large fish? Different rods are designed for different fishing situations, so it's important to choose one that will suit your needs.

For example, if you plan to fish from a boat, you may want to choose a longer rod with more sensitivity to detect bites from distant fish. If you prefer to fish from the shore, a shorter, more powerful rod may be a better choice for casting long distances and landing larger fish.

Look for High-Quality Materials

Another important factor to consider when choosing a Shakespeare fishing rod is the materials used in its construction. High-quality rods are typically made from lightweight, durable materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. These materials are strong and flexible, providing the necessary sensitivity and power for a successful fishing experience.

In addition to the materials used, pay attention to the quality of the components, such as the guides, reel seat, and handle. These components should be smooth, durable, and well-constructed to ensure that your fishing rod will last for years to come.

Consider Your Budget

Fishing rods can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. When choosing a Shakespeare fishing rod, it's important to consider your budget and choose a rod that fits your financial needs.

While it's true that high-end rods can provide superior performance, there are also many affordable options that offer excellent value for the money. Don't be afraid to shop around and compare prices to find the best deal on a quality Shakespeare fishing rod.

Test Before You Buy

Whenever possible, it's a good idea to test a fishing rod before you buy it. Many fishing stores and sporting goods retailers offer the opportunity to test out different rods before making a purchase. This can give you a sense of the rod's sensitivity, power, and overall feel, which can be helpful in choosing the right one for you.

In addition to testing the rod in-store, you can also ask friends or experienced anglers for their recommendations. They may be able to provide valuable insight and advice on which Shakespeare fishing rods are the best for your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Shakespeare fishing rod can make a big difference in your fishing experience. By considering your fishing style, looking for high-quality materials, considering your budget, and testing before you buy, you can find the perfect rod for your needs. With the right Shakespeare fishing rod, you can enjoy many successful fishing trips in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Shakespeare still make fishing rods?

And nobody knows that better than Shakespeare. For over 100 years, Shakespeare has been one of the most recognizable brands in fishing. As more and more newcomers discover the joy of fishing, Shakespeare will be there, providing the gear and inspiration to make sure that the next bite will never be the last.

2. Who manufactures Shakespeare fishing rods?

The Shakespeare Company is a subsidiary of Pure Fishing which manufactures fishing equipment. It was founded by William Shakespeare, Jr. in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1897.

3. Is Shakespeare a good fishing reel?

From my experience, Shakespeare makes excellent fishing rods and reels. I have been using Shakespeare products for years and still have the first fishing pole I bought for myself (a Shakespeare) about 6-7 years ago. It is still in fine working order; although, I must admit that it has seen better days.

Editor's Notes

During our Shakespeare fishing rod research, we found 24 Shakespeare fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 73,306 customer reviews through our big data system to write the Shakespeare fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose Shakespeare fishing rods with an average price of $46.69.

The Shakespeare fishing rods are available for purchase. The top 10 picks range in price from a low of $21.00 to a high of $64.00, find the one that fits your budget. 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.