The Best Bass Fishing Rods of 2024 - Buyer's Guide to Find the Perfect Rod

In this article, we have shared with you our list of 4 Best Bass Fishing rods based on our extensive research. You will get all your questions answered about bass rods & fishing along with our comprehensive Bass Fishing Rod Buyer’s guide.

Introduction

Bass fishing is one of the most popular types of fishing, and for good reason – it's a lot of fun, but it can be difficult to find the right bass rod for your needs. But don't worry – we're here to help.

We've tested out several bass fishing rods and in this article, we'll be discussing some of the best rods for bass fishing on the market by the best rod manufacturers, and we'll also be giving you our thoughts on each one.

So whether you're a beginner or an experienced fisherman, read on to learn more about the best bass fishing rods out there.


Douglas XMatrix - Best Bass Spinning Rod

Model: DXS 6103XF 

  • LENGTH: 6'10"
  • POWER: MEDIUM LIGHT
  • ACTION: EXTRA FAST
  • Line Weight 6-12 lb.
  • Rod Weight: 3.7 oz.
Check Price on Bass Pro Shops

The Douglas XMatrix DXS 6103XF Spinning Rod is a top-quality product that offers several features that make it stand out from the competition.

  • Engineered with an innovative design and extreme strength-to-weight ratio, sets it apart from the competition. It is agile and responsive, with an exquisitely balanced action. It has been designed to give the fisherman every advantage when out on the water.
  • The welded CC Alconite tip-top prevents line wrap, while the quality Fuji reel seat with hidden threads ensures a solid and sturdy connection between rod and spinning reel. Additionally, the ergonomic high-density EVA grips provide a comfortable grip even when wet.
  • This rod has Braid-friendly Fuji CC Alconite guides. This means that the rod can be used with a braided fishing line, which is stronger and more durable than other types of fishing line. The Alconite guides on this rod are also designed to provide smooth, efficient casting and trolling.

Overall, the Douglas XMatrix DXS 6103XF Spinning Rod is an excellent choice for serious anglers who demand the best performance from their fishing gear.

What's Great

This rod is designed for extreme strength and durability. It has a high strength-to-weight ratio that makes it perfect for use in any fishing environment. Whether you're fishing for big game fish or smaller fish, this rod will give you the performance you need to land your catch.

This rod features a high-quality Fuji reel seat with hidden threads. This design ensures that your reel stays securely in place while you're fishing. The hidden threads create a streamlined look, so your rod looks sleek and professional.

This rod is designed for comfort and performance. The ergonomic high-density EVA grips provide a secure, comfortable grip.

So if you're looking for a top-of-the-line rod that can handle anything you throw at it, look no further than the Douglas XMatrix DXS 6103XF Spinning Rod.


Douglas LRS - Best Bass Bait Casting Rod

Model: SC724XF 

  • LENGTH: 7'2"
  • POWER: MEDIUM
  • ACTION: EXTRA FAST
  • Line Weight 6-12 lb.
  • Rod Weight: 4.1 oz.
Check Price on Bass Pro Shops

The Douglas LRS SC724XF Casting Rod is a top-of-the-line casting rod that offers several features and benefits for anglers. Its tactical, ergonomic design ensures a superior strength-to-weight ratio, while its lightweight composite rod, durable graphite/hybrid multi-modulus blank provides great sensitivity and responsiveness.

  • This rod is compatible with Braided fishing lines and comes with Fuji CC Fazlite guides that make for smooth casting and retrieval. Additionally, the welded Fuji CC Fazlite tip top prevents line wrap.
  • The Douglas LRS SC724XF rod is equipped with ergonomic high-density EVA or cork grips. This design feature provides increased comfort and reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions.
  • Finally, this bass rod boasts a quality reel seat with hidden threading. Its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a perfect choice for serious anglers.

What's Great

What makes the best bass rods so special? Its superior strength-to-weight ratio, of course! This means that it's not only sturdy and durable but also light and easy to handle. So whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, this rod is sure to give you a great fishing experience.

This rod is designed for anglers who demand the best in terms of strength and durability. The graphite/hybrid multi-modulus blank provides superb sensitivity and action, while the light weight ensures perfect balance and handling.

The ergonomic design of the Douglas LRS SC724XF is perfect for anglers who want the perfect blend of form and function. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip while the unique design ensures maximum pole strength and sensitivity.

For those passionate about fishing, line wrap can be a frustrating issue. However, this baitcasting rod features a Welded Fuji CC Fazlite rod tip that prevents line wrap, so you can focus on enjoying your time spent fishing.


Ugly Stik GX2 - Best Bass Fishing Rod for the Money

Model - USSP702M

  • LENGTH: 7'
  • POWER: MEDIUM
  • ACTION: FAST
  • Line Weight 6-15 lb.
Check Price on Amazon

For anglers on a budget, the Ugly Stik GX2 is the best bass rod for the money. The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is the latest addition to the famed Ugly Stik rods. Like its predecessors, the GX2 is designed for strength and durability, with a blank made from graphite and fiberglass composite.

These enhancements help to improve sensitivity and responsiveness, while still providing the renowned strength and reliability that Ugly Stik fans have come to expect. Whether you're an experienced bass angler or just starting out, the Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is sure to provide a top-notch fishing experience.

  • The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is perfect for anglers who demand the very best. This top-of-the-line rod is made from sensitive, lightweight materials that are virtually unbreakable.
  • Clear fiberglass rod tips provide added power and sensitivity, while its high-tech construction ensures a durable and reliable fishing experience.
  • Graphite and fiberglass rods deliver exceptional casting performance, while 1-piece stainless steel inserts provide strength and durability.
  • Guides with 1-piece stainless steel inserts offer superior protection against wear and tear.

What's Great

This affordable rod has a Clear fiberglass tip for added power and sensitivity. The clear fibers transmit vibrations better, so you can feel those bites, and the extra power helps you set the hook. The graphite and fiberglass blank on this rod makes it extra versatile.

You can use it for a variety of different fish, making it a great choice for anglers of all levels. This rod is made with 1-piece stainless steel inserts. This material is durable and ensures a long lifespan for the rod. Anglers can rely on this rod to perform well, time after time.


Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Rod and Reel Combo - Best Bass Fishing Rod Reel Combo

Model - JPT3000/JMP69MS

  • LENGTH: 6'9"
  • POWER: MEDIUM
  • ACTION: FAST
  • Line Weight 4-12 lb.
Check Price on Bass Pro Shops

We have divided our review for this rod into 2 parts - the Reel features and Rod features

Reel Features

This rod and reel combo features a solid 1-piece aluminum frame, balanced, super-lightweight rotor, and hollow stainless steel bail wire.

  • The double-anodized aluminum spool ensures smooth operation, while the micro-pitched gearing system provides ultra-quiet performance.
  • Stainless steel main shaft and hard zinc drive gear provide added strength and durability, while the brass pinion gear ensures lasting performance.
  • The premium 11-bearing (10+1) system delivers exceptional smoothness and power, and the water-resistant felt/aluminum drag ensures consistent drag pressure. And thanks to the machined aluminum handle with Soft Touch knob, you'll enjoy hours of comfortable fishing with this combo.

Rod Features

The Bass Pro Shops Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is a high-quality, lightweight option for anglers who want the best of both worlds.

  • It features a premium RTX5 graphite blank, 5 layers of carbon sheeting, and Fuji SiC guides for an unbeatable combination of strength and sensitivity.
  • The reel seat is also made from Fuji aluminum with Soft Touch coating to provide extra comfort and grip, while the line ID system at the rod butt makes it easy to keep track of your line at all times.
  • And if you ever run into any tangles while fishing, the no-tangles hook keeper will take care of them in a snap.

What's Great

The Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is a great choice for anglers who demand the best in terms of quality and performance. This combo features a solid 1-piece aluminum frame, a balanced, super-lightweight rotor, and a host of other premium features that make it perfect for serious anglers.

The Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature is designed to be more affordable than other top-performing brands, without compromising on quality! This rod is perfect for those who demand strength, durability, sensitivity, and precision. This rod is extremely sensitive, allowing you to detect even the slightest bites.


Fishing Rod Buying Guide

As you get ready to purchase your first rod, it's important to understand the different types available and what will best suit your needs. In this buying guide, we will provide an overview of the different types of rods and help you decide which is the right one for you. We'll also discuss factors to consider when making your purchase, such as budget and experience level.

Here we have listed the 6 different types of rods:

Spinning Rod

The most frequently used type of rod is the spinning rod. They are designed for use with spinning reels, which are attached to the top of the rod. A Spinning rods are also known as “open face” or “spin cast” rods.

Spinning rods is a type of rod that is most versatile rod and easy to use. It is lighter and shorter than a casting rods and can be used in both fresh and saltwater. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, a spinning rod is a good rod choice for your next fishing trip.


Baitcasting Rod

Baitcasting rods are the most common type of rod used by experienced anglers and are paired up with a baitcasting reel. They are designed for use with baitcasting reels, which are attached to the bottom of the rod and allow the fisherman to accurately place bait or lure in water.

Baitcasting rods are suited for catching Smallmouth bass, and other warm water species. Whether you are just getting started in fishing or you are an experienced angler, a Baitcasting rod can be a great addition to your tackle box.


Telescopic Fishing Rod

Telescoping rods are a type of rod that is becoming increasingly popular. They are designed to be compact and portable, making them ideal for anglers who want to be able to travel with their gear.

When extended, telescopic rods can reach up to 20 feet in length, but when retracted, they are only 2 feet long. This makes them easy to pack up and take with you when you hit the road. In addition, telescopic rods are popular among anglers who just want to have everything compact and ready to travel with as they allow a very long rod to be easily folded up for transportation and storage.


Surf Fishing Rod

A surf rod is a specialized type of rod that is designed for use in saltwater conditions. Unlike a traditional rod, a surf rod is much longer, typically 12 feet or more in length. This extra rod length helps to cast the line further out into the waves. In addition, surf rods are usually much thicker and sturdier, to withstand the powerful waves and strong currents.

Most surf rods also have a heavy sinker attached, which helps to keep the line from being swept away by the waves. With the right surf rod, you can enjoy a successful day of fishing even in the roughest conditions.


Fly Fishing Rod

Fly fishing rods are a specialized type of rod that is designed for use with fly fishing reels. Fly rods are usually made of carbon fiber composites which makes them much thinner and more flexible, while still being strong enough to handle the heavy fly line.

In addition, fly rods include special eyes called snake eyes that assist to direct and avoid tangles when you cast. As a result, fly fishing rods are an essential piece of equipment for any angler looking to fish in this unique and exciting style.


Rod Components

As a fisherman, you know that your success depends on the quality of your rod material and the components used. There are various components to a rod. The most important part is the blank, which is the actual fishing pole.

Other components include the Handle, Reel Seat, Guide, and Butt Cap.

Each of these components has a specific function and plays an important role in the overall performance of the rod. Learning about each component will help you select the right rod for your needs and ensure that you are getting the most out of your fishing experience.

Rod Blank

A rod blank is the core of a rod, around which the rest of the components are built. Blanks are typically made from graphite or fiberglass, and they come in a variety of lengths and action types to suit different styles of fishing.

Graphite Rod Blanks are considered to be more rigid and better for power, while fiberglass is said to be ideal for faster action rods. The length of the blank determines how far you can cast, while the action type affects the flexibility of the rod and determines what kind of fish you can catch.

When choosing a blank, it's important to consider the type of fishing you'll be doing and what kind of fish you're hoping to catch. With so many different options on the market, there's sure to be a blank that's perfect for your needs.

Handle

A fishing rod handle is one of the most important parts of the rod. It is the part that you grip when you are casting your line into the water. The material of the handle will determine how comfortable it is to hold and how well it gripes in your hand. Cork and EVA foam are two of the most common materials for handles.

Cork provides a good rod grip and is very comfortable, but it can be expensive. EVA foam is less expensive, but it does not provide as good of a grip and can be less comfortable. Wood and metal handles are also available, but they are not as common because they are more difficult to grip and can be slippery when wet.

When choosing a fishing rod handle, consider what material will work best for you based on your budget and needs.

Reel Seat

A rod reel seat is a cylindrical piece of metal or plastic that is attached to the butt end of a rod. It provides a secure and comfortable grip for the angler, as well as a place to mount the reel.

The reel seat also helps to balance the rod, making it easier to cast and present the bait. There are several different types of reel seats available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. For example, spinning reel seats are very popular among anglers because they offer a high level of sensitivity and control. However, they can be difficult to use if you are not used to them.

Baitcasting reel seats, on the other hand, offer increased power and accuracy but can be more challenging to use. Ultimately, it is up to the angler to decide which type of reel seat is best for their needs.

Guide

A rod guide is a small, ring-shaped piece of metal or other material that is attached to a rod. The guide helps to keep the line in place and to direct it during casting. It also provides a surface for the line to glide over when the rod is being reeled in, preventing the line from becoming tangled.

There are a variety of different types of guides available, each designed for a specific type of fishing. In general, however, all guides serve the same basic purpose.

Butt Cap

The butt cap is found at the bottom of the rod handle, and its primary purpose is to add balance and style to the rod. Most butt caps are made of rubber or foam, and they come in a variety of colors. Some anglers believe that a rod with a butt cap feels more comfortable to hold, while others prefer the bare feel of the rod.

In addition to adding style and comfort, some butt caps also serve as an aid when holding the rod while casting. The added weight of the butt cap helps to keep the rod stable while casting. Butt caps come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including EVA, cork, rubber, and aluminum. Whether you're looking for added comfort or style, a butt cap is a great way to personalize your rod.

Characteristics of Fishing Rods

Rod Lengths

Fishing rods come in all sorts of different lengths, from four feet to twelve feet. But the ideal length of a rod depends on several factors, including the type of fish you are trying to catch, the type of water you are fishing in, and your personal preference.

In general, shorter rods are better for smaller streams and rivers, while long rods are better for larger lakes, shore fishing and oceans. You will also want to consider the size and weight of the line you are using, as well as the size and rod weight of the lures or baits you are using.

If you are using a heavy line and large lures, you will need a stronger rod that can handle the weight. Conversely, if you are using a lighter line and smaller lures, you can get away with a lighter rod.

Usually, you can expect to have more control and accuracy with the shorter rods and the longer rods provide you with more power for better casting distance.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the ideal length for your rod is to experiment with different lengths until you find one that feels comfortable and gives you the results you want.

Rod Power

The power of a rod generally refers to the rod's stiffness or resistance to bending. The power of a rod is measured by the weight of the line it can handle. For example, a light power rod might be able to handle a four-pound line, while a heavy power rod might be able to handle a 20-pound line. The power you need depends on the size of the fish you're trying to catch.

This is important because the fish will put different amounts of pressure on the line depending on their size and the type of water they are in. The amount of pressure put on the line will determine how much the rod bends. There are different types of rods for different types of fish, so it is important to choose the right one.

The most common types are ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium power rod, medium heavy rod, and heavy rod. There is also an ultra-heavy type for very large fish. The power of the rod you choose should be based on the size and type of fish you plan on catching.

Rod Action

Any good fisherman knows that the action of the rod is important in landing a fish. The action refers to how the rod bends when pressure is applied to it. There are three different types of rod action: slow, medium, and fast. A fast action rod will bend near the rod tip, while slow action rods will more rod bend and bend further down the shaft. Each type of action has its advantages and disadvantages.

Fast action rods are better for making quick, sharp casts, but they can be more difficult to control. Slow action rods will be more forgiving, but they don't provide as much power behind the cast. As a result, the type of action that is best for a fisherman depends on his or her personal preferences and fishing style.

No matter what type of action is chosen, however, it is important to make sure that the rod is well-made and up to the challenge of landing a big fish. Otherwise, all the skills in the world won't make any difference.

Diagram of a fishing rod's power and action graph

FAQs about Bass Fishing Rods

What is the best fishing rod for bass?

We have compiled a list of the 4 best bass fishing rods according to their unique features.

  • Starting off our list is the DXS 724XF, which is our top pick for the best bass fishing spinning rod. What makes this spinning rod so great is its ability to handle a variety of different lures, as well as its sensitivity and power. Additionally, it's made with high-quality materials, which makes it durable and long-lasting.
  • Next up is the Douglas LRS SC724XF, which is our top pick for the best bass casting rod. This rod is perfect for those who want to use live bait, as it features a special design that allows for easy casting. Additionally, it has a lot of power and sensitivity, making it ideal for big bass.
  • If you're looking for the top bass fishing rod for the money, then you'll want to check out the Ugly Stik GX2. This rod is perfect for those on a budget, as it's made with high-quality materials but doesn't cost a lot. Additionally, it has good power and sensitivity, making it a great choice for to catch bass.
  • Finally, we have the Bass Pro Signature combo, which is our top pick for the bass rod reel combo. This combo is perfect for those who want the convenience of a high-quality rod and reel in one package.

What is the best action rod for bass fishing?

When it comes to bass fishing, the type of rod you use can make a big difference in your success. For many anglers, a fast-action rod is the best choice. These rods are designed to allow for quick and easy casting, and they provide plenty of power to pull in a big fish.

Additionally, fast-action rods are typically very versatile, meaning they can be used for a variety of different techniques. If you're serious about bass fishing, then a fast action rod is a good investment that will pay off in terms of both increased success and enjoyment for catching bass.

What is the best length rod for bass fishing?

Before you choose the best rod length for bass fishing, there are a few factors to consider. One important factor is the type of water you'll be fishing in. If you're fishing in open water, you'll need a longer rod for greater casting accuracy, which should be about 7 feet long rods.

However, if you're fishing in smaller ponds or streams, a shorter rod will be just as effective, which should be at least 6 feet long. Another factor to consider is the type of fish you're seeking. If you're targeting larger bass, you'll need a longer rod to give you the extra power and leverage you need to land them.

Ultimately, it's up to the angler to decide what type of fish they're after and what rod length will suit their needs best.

Is fiberglass or graphite rod better for bass fishing?

It depends on the type of bass fishing you plan on doing, but for the most part, graphite rods are considered to be better for bass fishing. Graphite rods tend to be lighter and more flexible than fiberglass rods, allowing them to flex with a fishes' movements and absorb shock when dealing with its powerful strikes.

This gives anglers more control over their line while presenting baits properly. Because they are so lightweight, they also minimize fatigue during long days of fishing. Additionally, graphite rods offer superior sensitivity compared to fiberglass ones; therefore anglers can detect bites much quicker and easier due to the vibrations that move down the length of the rod when something pulls at a bait or rigs.

With lighter weight designs and higher strength-to-weight ratios, winners of bass tournaments across America are often found armed with Graphite Rods!

However there is one downside - graphite is not as tough as fiberglass and can easily break if handled poorly or put under too much pressure from big fish. If that's something that concerns you, then investing in a high-quality fiberglass rod might suit your needs better since it offers both strength and flexibility.

Fiberglass rods have thicker walls than graphite ones which makes them harder and stronger overall; this means they will undoubtedly withstand any kind of abuse longer than a graphite rod would. On top of that, their blanks are generally larger and sturdier making them ideal for targeting bigger species such as pike or catfish where extra strength is required when casting heavy lures such as jigs or crankbaits in deep water areas with strong currents present.

No matter what kind of bass fishing you plan on doing — river/streams/lakes — having either type (fiberglass & graphite) in your arsenal will serve you well because each has its own respective qualities and benefits depending on conditions at hand!

Conclusion

Bass fishing is a popular sport, and there are many different types of bass fishing rods on the market. So, which one should you buy? Well, that depends on your personal preferences and the type of bass fishing you plan to do.

In general, however, you will want to choose a bass fishing rod that is well-made and has enough power to handle the fish you are trying to catch. You should also consider the action of the rod, as this will affect how easy it is to control.

No matter what type of bass fishing rod you choose, make sure it is comfortable for you to use and provides good feedback when casting or fighting a fish. With a little bit of practice, you will be sure to land the big one in no time.

Happy Bass Fishing!

Fisherman wearing sunglasses smiling holding a largemouth bass

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