The Top 5 Fishing Poles
For some people, fishing is a relaxing pastime. For others, it's is an intense sport that pits their wits against the powers of nature. Yet, whether you're an avid fisherman or a total beginner, all those that seek to fish will first need a quality fishing pole. The market is flooded with different options and it can be quite overwhelming to try to find the perfect pick. Thus, we've done the research and found the best of the best. Read on to discover our top five favorites, from the best travel kit to the best for kids.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo
Behold the beauty of the Ugly Stik
Many a fat catfish have been caught with the Ugly Stik GX2. That’s because this powerful pole sports the best in strength, speed, and comfort. For example, the smooth-spinning spool is made out of an anodized aluminum and has an over-sized bail wire for longer casts. Better yet, the rod itself is constructed out of a durable graphite and fiberglass blend that’s both flexible and strong. Considering the price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fishing pole of this caliber that delivers such durability. It also features superb sensitivity, so you can respond quickly to a tug or a nibble. Of course, it’s a light action rod so you probably won’t be catching any sharks with this thing. Nonetheless, those looking for an awesome fishing pole for angling in freshwater and trawling a line, go with the Ugly Stik Gx2.
Pros
- Durable
- Strong and flexible rod
- Smooth reel
Cons
- Reel is small
- Reel stem isn’t super strong
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos, Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole, Spinning Reel 12 + 1 Shielded Bearings
A prem-o pole for a prem-o price
Fishing poles can be expensive… really expensive. In fact, it wouldn’t be too difficult to spend a couple grand on the latest-and-greatest reel alone. However, once you get into that price range, you’ll have to start piecing together the pole yourself. Fortunately, there are still some high-performance poles that come as a complete rod-and reel combo. This option from Plusinno is comprised out of high-quality hardware and an exceptional reel. It can handle 8- to 12-pound lines and sports a buttery-smooth and lightning-fast operation. Better yet, this reel, the HA 3000, features a collapsible handle, corrosion-resistant ball bearings, and a fully-metal construction. The telescoping rod is also lightweight and strong, and hosts durable metal eyelits. And as an added bonus, this option comes with a protective carrying case.
Pros
- Ultra-smooth reel
- Lightweight and balanced
- Includes case, sinkers, lines, hooks, and lures
Cons
- Relatively pricey
Kalex Telescopic Fishing Kit & Combo
Small price, huge catch
Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll never go hungry again. Of course, he’ll also need a pole. For those broke folks out there pining to get into the fish game, fear not. This option from Kalex is less than 25 dollars and comes complete with rod and reel. Lightweight and telescopic, it’s a popular pick for those that want a cheap rod to toss in their backpack. But don’t confuse cheap for low-quality. The Kalex 2000 is six-and-a-half feet of sturdy graphite and aluminum construction. And although it’s not quite as flexible or sensitive as the pricier options, it’s strong enough for 12- to 15-pound lines and can reel in some serious weight.
Pros
- Collapses for travel
- Great value for the price
- Reel is compact and smooth
Cons
- Small reel doesn’t hold much line
- Guides aren’t evenly spaced
Kids Fishing Pole, Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos with Spincast Fishing Reel
Little hands catch big fish
Fishing is a great way to bond with your kid but we don’t recommend handing the little one an expensive name-brand pole and sending them off into the wilderness. Those interested in recruiting a youngster into their fishing foray will need a pole specially-suited for their small hands and easily-encumbered fingers. This option from Plusinno is only 3.2-ounces in weight and features an ergonomic, non-slip EVA handle. Better yet, the plastic-hooded reel is button-release for a super simple cast. It even compacts down into kid-sized dimensions, with an extended length of 3.9 feet and a collapsed length of 1.3 feet. And funny as it may seem, this is even a popular option for those that want a collapsible pole to keep in the trunk of their car. It would seem Plusinno’s high reputation for quality extends even to their kids’ fishing poles.
Pros
- Safe, hooded reel
- Non-slip grip
- Lightweight
- Telescopic
Cons
- Won’t cast very far
Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit
For fishing on the go
Unlike Henry David Thoreau, we can’t all just fish right out of the backyard. Many of us anglers must travel a great distance to find the perfect fishing spot. To those looking for a portable pole, we recommend the Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager. This option comes with a hardy nylon carrying case and can be assembled or broken down in a jiffy. Better yet, the included tacklebox and Voyager reel each have their own foam sections in the case. Of course, we wouldn’t recommend a fishing pole based on the portability alone. This is another great overall choice with great value for the price. The cork handle is comfortable and the reel is smooth and strong. Best of all, the assembled pole is 6 feet in length and sports surprisingly high action for whipping in the winners.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Assembles and collapses easily
- Includes hardy carrying case
- Cork handle
Cons
- Tacklebox is small
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the action of a fishing pole?
A fishing pole’s “action” is the amount that the pole will flex when reeling in a fish. A pole with a slow action will bend considerably, sometimes greater than 90-degrees. A pole that only bends a little when subjected to the same amount of pull is considered to have a fast action.
Those fishing for trout or panfish prefer the former type, since light lures can be cast further with the flex of a slow-action pole. Alternatively, a fishing pole with a fast action is best for beginners. These poles are more sensitive to nibbles and can be whipped up to hook fish more easily.
Which fishing pole is best for beginners?
All of the options on our list are good for beginners. We specifically chose fishing poles that came complete with rod and reel. Many of the above options even come with tackle and fishing lines.
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