Quick Summary: We selected the PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod as the best fishing rod for beginners. It is perfect for seawater and freshwater. It will not corrode or rust. It has medium heavy power and an anti reverse system. The spool is made from aluminum and provides lightness and durability. This kit comes with a carrying bag and lures.
Fishing is the favorite pastime of many people around the world. Fishing may seem complicated to first-time anglers, but that doesn’t have to be the case. As long as you have the proper equipment, you’ll be good to go.
If you’re interested in getting started with fishing, then you need to choose the best fishing rod for your needs. But, doing this is not that simple. As a beginner with limited knowledge about fishing, it can be difficult to choose the best rod for your needs.
There are hundreds of rods available on the market, and each manufacturer claims that their rod is what you need to make your first great catch.
So how can you decide which rod is right for you? Don’t worry, we got it covered. We prepared a list of the best beginner fishing rods currently available on the market.
We carefully reviewed each one and pointed out who the rod is best suitable for, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each model. We also made sure to include affordable as well as high-end options, to cover all types of budgets.
With the information in this guide and a bit of gear, you’ll be ready to go on your first fishing trip this weekend.
Quick Navigation:
- 10 Top Beginner Fishing Rods Comparison
- Reviews of 10 Top Beginner Fishing Rods
- How To Choose The Best Fishing Rod for Beginners
- FAQs
- Final Verdict
10 Best Beginner Fishing Rods Comparison
 | 1. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod Carbon Fiber Telescopic Rod (Best Overall)One of the best fishing rods for beginner fishing, this durable fishing rod has medium action power and includes the rod and the reel. Instant anti-reverse and power drive gears for high strength. | Read Our Review |
 | 2. Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic (Best Budget)This rod and reel combo is lightweight and comes with a carrier bag and all accessories for a great fishing experience. Perfect for beginners, as the kit contains everything a beginner needs. | Read Our Review |
 | 3. Crystal River Fly Fishing Combo KitThis fly fishing rod and reel combo kit offers great value and makes fishing fun for everyone, no matter what their skill level. Dependable and affordable, and a perfect fishing rod for beginners. | Read Our Review |
 | 4. NetAngler Fly Fishing Rod Reel ComboOne of the best fishing rods for fly fishing, this rod combo comes with a tackle box, fishing lines, flies, and a fishing case. Made of aluminum alloy, this is a durable fishing pole. | Read Our Review |
 | 5. Sougayilang Portable Spinning Telescopic RodPerfect for saltwater and freshwater types of fishing, this telescopic rod is light and fits easily in your car trunk, boat hatch or backpack. Perfectly balanced and suitable as a beginner fishing rod. | Read Our Review |
 | 6. Ugly Stik GX2 Rod and Spinning Reel ComboSpinning reels work best in a combo, and this one has a 6 feet medium spinning combo, a 2-piece spinning rod construction and a 5:5:1 ratio. The compression ball springs increase the reel life span. | Read Our Review |
 | 7. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod Reel Fiber Telescopic RodA telescopic rod with power drive gears for strength, this rod features instant anti-reverse and has a deep aluminium spool with double color and one line hole. | Read Our Review |
 | 8. Penn Battle II & Battle III Reel and Rod ComboBig saltwater game fish can be caught with this fishing gear. The full metal body and heavy-duty aluminum bail wire are strong and durable with a powerful drag system. | Read Our Review |
 | 9. PLUSINNO Telescopic Rod and Reel Combos Full KitThis type of rod is telescopic, portable, and has a closed length design so it's easy to carry around for a beginner. The power is medium and it has an anti-reverse system. | Read Our Review |
 | 10. ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole & Portable Telescopic Rod ReelThis is the best rod for kids, with its attractive spincast fishing tackle kit containing crankbaits, float bobbers, jig heads, soft lures, swivels and sinkers, in its own carry bag. | Read Our Review |
Reviews of 10 Top Beginner Fishing Rods
Here’s a list of the top fishing rods for beginners we found on the market:
Best Overall
1. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod
What You Will Love: The PLUSINNO Fishing Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod is a mixed rod with carbon fiber and fiberglass making it supremely durable.
The PLUSINNO Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod is the best overall choice because it has a reel seat made from stainless steel and it is hooded.
This type of fishing rod is perfect for seawater because it does not corrode. This is a great beginner rod because the grip is comfortable and while the rod telescopes, it is also portable.
Most noteworthy is that it has a design where it closes. It has moderate power, so not too much for a newbie, but something with which you can grow. Another feature is it has an automatic anti-reverse.
The spool is made from aluminum and provides durable lightness. Finally, this is a full kit complete with a lure, mono fishing line, reel, rod, and carrying bag. It has everything you need to get going on your first fishing adventure.
Pros:
- Great pole for a child.
- There are upgrades available to add to the rod.
- The handle is changeable for the left or right hand.
- Excellent customer service with a one year warranty.
Cons:
- This beginner rod is not meant for larger, heavier fish.
- This rod may not last a long time.
Best Budget
2. Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole
What You Will Love: The Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combo with Telescopic Fishing Pole has an adhesive that is epoxy resin to make the guide ring smooth and solid.
The Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combo with Telescopic Fishing Pole is a budget freiendly set up because it comes with everything you need in one set.
It comes with the rod, reel, fishing lures, hooks, fishing line, and a fishing bag to carry all these gears. You do not need much more than that to go fishing.
The rod is a carbon fiber that is high density combined with fiberglass allowing the pole to be durable while remaining lightweight. The guide ring is ceramic providing a better dissipation of heat. Most noteworthy is that the handle is changeable from right to left hand.
The handle is comfortable and non-slip, so you do not have to worry about it coming out of your hand. The ball bearings are resistant to corrosion and super smooth. Another feature is the gears are precisely matched and have a 5:5:1 ratio.
Finally, the spool is aluminum with a design of honeycomb giving you strength without any extra weight. You can easily pack this rod in your backpack or anywhere else you would like.
Pros:
- Offer a one year warranty that is worry-free.
- Complete set perfect for beginners at a great price.
Cons:
- This is not a heavy-duty rod.
- This rod is intended for lightweight only.
3. Crystal River Fly Fishing Combo Kit
What You Will Love: The Crystal River Fly Fishing Combo Kit is the perfect kit for individuals at all skill levels.
The Crystal River Fishing Combo Kit is the right beginner rod and spinning reel combos because while this set is durable and strong.
This type of fishing rod offers a great value for an exceptional fly fishing rod. This is only intended for use with the right hand.
This is a great rod to learn how to fly fish without sinking a ton of money into it. Most noteworthy is this rod weighs only one pound. This is a multi-color and mixed material rod.
Pros:
- This is a great first step into fly fishing.
Cons:
- Does not come with a backer line.
- Plastic teeth on the reel create drag.
4. NetAngler Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
What You Will Love: The NetAngler Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo comes with a 35 pieces and a hard carrying case.
The NetAngler rod and spinning reel combo is the best beginner travel rod and reel combo for bass fishing because it is a full kit with a plastic carrying case, which is waterproof and remains dry.
Most noteworthy is all the pieces included in the set, such as flies, backing, fishing tools, and fishing line. The rod is in four sections, all of which are made of carbon fiber to keep it light.
The handle is a lever design and the surface resists corrosion. The handle remains in your hand even when it is wet. Another feature is the oval handle which takes the pressure off your hands. The ring is made from chrome that is the highest grade for smooth movement.
The guides help minimize friction and keep heat as minimal as possible. Finally, the reel itself is an aluminum alloy with a roller bearing to engage one-directional drag.
Pros:
- The reel is CNC machined so it remains precise.
- This makes an excellent gift.
Cons:
- The reel seems like cheap plastic to some.
- Cannot hold up to heavier weights.
5. Sougayilang Portable Spinning Telescopic Rod
What You Will Love: The Sougayilang Fishing Rod – 24 Ton Carbon Fiber is a machined aluminum that provides precise fitting every time.
The Sougayilang Fishing Rod – 24 Ton Carbon Fiber is the perfect beginner saltwater spinning rod because it is a highly dense combined material that is balanced perfectly and allows you to have maximum power.
This type of fishing rod is a great beginner freshwater spinning rod because it has three-point welds with guides. Another feature is the guides that are ceramic and perfect for braided or mono fishing lines.
Most noteworthy is this rod resists corrosion and gives you the best control. Finally, this rod is telescoping but is easy to pack up and carry with you. Sougayilang completely stands by its product and to prove it offers a one year warranty making your experience completely free of worry.
Pros:
- The carbon fiber gives you a powerful pull.
- Very nice looking rod.
Cons:
- Breaks easily, use caution.
- The rod feels a bit stiff.
6. Ugly Stik GX2 Rod and Spinning Reel Combo
What You Will Love: The UglyStik GX2 Spinning Fishing Reel and Rod Combo has a clear tip giving you ultimate strength and extra response.
The UglyStik GX2 Spinning Fishing Reel and Rod Combo is the perfect rod and reel for beginner bass fishing because it has three ball bearings and a clutch that is one way that prevents automatic reversing to give you the smoothest operation.
This is a great recreation spinning rod because it is light and the handle has a grip that is EVA giving you the most comfortable grip no matter how long you fish.
Another feature is the rod is made of fiberglass and graphite combination giving it a sensitive feel. This rod has a spinning rod and reel sizes of 40 and 50 making it great for anyone, no matter your level of skill or expertise.
The spool is machined to be a double anodized spool of aluminum to provide you durable long-lasting use.
Most noteworthy is the ball springs are compression giving them a longer life.
Pros:
- Great price for the product.
- Graphite and fiberglass construction.
- Good quality.
Cons:
- Not the best customer service.
- Many receive defective shipments.
7. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod
What You Will Love: The PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Fishing Rod is telescopic but with a closed design to make it easy to travel.
The PLUSINNO Fishing Rods and Reels are perfect for freshwater fishing off the shore because you can take this rod anywhere.
Due to its closed design, you can carry it virtually anywhere you would like to fish. This is an affordable price for a complete set. It has everything a beginning fisher needs, including a carrying bag.
Another feature is the gears driven by power for extra strength. The reel is a mixed fiber of carbon and the reel seat is rust resisitant that prevents corrosion in seawater. Most noteworthy is the reel has a body that is short and a spool that is large.
Finally, this rod has a medium amount of power, which is perfect for someone new to fishing.
Pros:
- Excellent customer service with a one year warranty.
- The handle is changeable for the left or right hand.
Cons:
- After use, the handle becomes stiff.
- This breaks easily.
8. Penn Battle ii & Battle iii Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
What You Will Love: You’ll love that this is a great rod if you want to catch large saltwater game fish with this rod reel combo.
This powerful Penn Battle ii set features a 5+1 stainless steel bearing system and is made for catching large fish such as tuna and shark. A simple spray down with some fresh water at the dock and the rod is ready for action.
Sturdy construction
The full metal body, side plate, rotor, and the heavy-duty aluminum bail wire are all strong and durable.
Smooth drag
The drag system is HT-100 and allows for a powerful drag while still being smooth. The line rating of Penn Battle ii is 4-10.
Smooth cranking
5 stainless-steel ball bearings and the instant anti-reverse bearing allow for smooth cranking when reeling in your fish.
Pros:
- The superline spool doesn’t require any backing and is braid ready.
- line capacity rings are marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity for ease of use.
- Fills a gap between surf reel and light tackle.
- Very few winds knots with the use of braided line.
Cons:
- Not really suitable for surf fishing ice fishing, or other than for large fish.
9. PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Full Kit
What You Will Love: You’ll love that this kit includes a carrier bag, a rod, a fishing reel, a fishing line, and fishing lures. Everything for a beginner to get going, and it’s small, medium light, and compact. Casting is easy and the reels are smooth.
This moderate power kit is one of the best rod reel combos, with a high tensile strength plastic body and 12 + 1 shielded bearings of stainless steel. Perfect for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Solid construction
The high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass makes this pole durable and tough, yet still flexible live bait for catfish, trout spinners, or most sea fishes.
Won’t corrode
The stainless-steel hooded reel seats offer protection against seawater corrosion.
Powerful
The instant anti-reverse and power drive gear provide high strength. The gear ratio is 5.2:1 and there’s more short body with a large spool and large line capacity.
Pros:
- Deep aluminum spool with double color and one line holes.
- EVA Fore Grip for comfort.
- Closed length design means it’s easy to take with you.
- Several lengths to choose from.
- Right/left interchangeable handle.
- Works for bass fishing.
- Easy to use.
- Users report excellent customer service.
Cons:
- The twist and lock mechanisms may wear out quickly.
10. ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole, Portable Telescopic Rod and Reel Combo Kit
What You Will Love: You’ll love the value for money of this all-in-one fishing kit for kids. This kit is one of the top spinning rods for children as it has been made with them in mind. Suitable for total beginners as well as more skilled young fishing enthusiasts.
Kids need rods that are sturdy and attractive, and this kit delivers both. Its epoxy construction combined with soft EVA and plastic makes it durable while being lightweight.
Designed for kids
This rod has a bright and colorful design that kids will appreciate, with EVA grips for small hands so that even when wet, beginners won’t lose their rod.
Easy to carry
The collapsible design makes it simple to carry wit you when going out and about. The blue carrying bag holds the pole as well as all of the other accessories.
Simple to use
One of the best and easiest rods for children to use, and it comes with a beginner s guide.
Pros:
- The tackle box comes with crankbaits.
- Float bobbers.
- Jig heads.
- Soft lures.
- Swivels and sinkers .
- Suited to catching more than one type of fish.
Cons:
- The rod could be a little more sturdy.
How To Choose The Best Fishing Rod for Beginners
When you are looking for the best fishing rod, there are many available to you. There are some specific features to which you should pay attention when searching for the right rod. Keep the features listed below in mind when you looking for:
The Length Of The Fishing Rod
The length of the rod makes a big difference depending on the type of fishing you want to do. Typically, fishing rods are anywhere from 6 to 12 feet. For a beginner fisher, it is recommended that you start with a 7-foot rod.
Rod Construction Material
The material of the rod is incredibly important as you want a rod that is strong and durable. However, you do not want a rod that is so durable that it is stiff or heavy. That would take away from your ability to cast and hold on to the rod for long periods of time.
The Action Of The Rod
The action of the rod is where it bends when you apply pressure or weight to it. If it is a fast action rod, it bends at the top third. If it is a medium heavy action rod, it bends in the top half. If it is a slow action rod, it bends in the lower third of the rod and near the handle.
The Rod Power
The power of a rod is the resistance or stiffness, it has to bend under a specific amount of weight. You see terms such as light and ultra-light when describing it. For a new fisher, you want something that has moderate power. They handle a large number of lures and are perfect for beginners.
Rod Lure Weight
This means the perfect weight for loading the rod when you cast it. If your lure is too light, the rod does not load properly and you have a shorter cast. If your lure weight is too heavy, your cast is sluggish. When you have the proper weight, your rod loads properly and you can have a perfect cast.
Different Types Of Fishing Rods
As you can guess, there are many different kinds of fishing rods available on the market. It is important that you get the right rod for your fishing goals.
There are different rods specifically for certain types of fish. The same fishing gear which is great for trout may not be suitable for bass fishing. Knowing the proper power, action, and lure weight helps you make the best decision for your fishing needs.
Related Reading: Best Fishing Line For Trout
FAQs
What Size Fishing Rod For Beginner?
Fishing rods typically vary in size from 6 feet to 12 feet. If you are a beginner, you should stay around 7 feet until you become more proficient.
What Is A Good Brand Of Fishing Rod For A Beginner Teen?
The Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo is the best beginning rod for a teenager.
When To Buy A Fishing Rod?
You should buy beginner rod and reel combos whenever you or someone you love becomes interested in fishing. If you want to fish and have never tried it before, you should start with a beginner rod.
How Much To Spend On A Fishing Combo?
A beginner rod and reel combos can drastically range in price based on the brand and features. You can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $150.
Final Verdict: Best Beginner Fishing Rods
We have looked for the options out of the vast number of choices available on the market. We know it may be difficult to figure out which one is the best fishing rod when you are just starting. We understand that when looking for a beginner rod, you do not want to spend a lot of money.
You want something that is easy to use and encourages you to fish more. We understand that you need something durable, yet light. We hope these beginner rods and reels options meet your needs and help you enjoy your fishing activities.
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