We strive to provide you with honest and unbiased reviews of baitcasting rods. We base our reviews on real customer feedback, so you can be confident that you’re getting an objective look at the products you’re interested in.
At a Glance:
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That’s why we don’t promote the most expensive products just to earn more commissions – we want you to be able to make an informed decision based on the experiences of real customers.
To help you easily compare different baitcasting rods, we assign each product a score out of 100 based on our research. This rating allows you to quickly scan through various products and get a sense of which ones are the best options.
With our comprehensive reviews, you can save time and effort by finding the right baitcasting rod without spending hours reading through multiple reviews online.
The Evolution of Baitcasting Rods
Baitcasting rods, also known as casting rods, have undergone significant development in recent years in order to improve the angling experience. Here are some key areas that brands have focused on in the development of these rods:
Sensitivity:
This refers to the ability of the angler to feel movements or changes at the end of the line. This could include detecting bites or making contact with the bottom of the water body.
Weight:
Brands have made efforts to reduce the weight of baitcasting rods, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time. These rods are now lighter, yet also stronger than ever before. Durability:
A rod’s durability is determined by its materials and craftsmanship. A durable rod can withstand the rigors of targeting large fish in heavy vegetation and will last for years.
Design:
Many anglers have preferences when it comes to the appearance of their rod. Brands have taken this into consideration and are now designing rods with a focus on aesthetics as well as functionality.
While baitcasting rods continue to advance and improve, the cost of these high-tech rods can be steep. It’s important to keep in mind that you don’t have to break the bank to get a rod that can help you land plenty of fish.
In fact, some of the more expensive rods may only offer minor benefits that may not be noticeable to the average angler.
Fortunately, there are now several brands that offer rods with moderate price tags but still offer top-notch performance. This has made the $100 price range one of the most competitive in the fishing rod market.
If you’re looking to purchase a baitcasting rod within this price range, it’s important to consider what features are most important to you and do your research to find the best options.
We’ve highlighted some top contenders in this price range, but there are certainly other impressive rods worth considering. Be sure to read reviews and consider the opinions of other anglers before making your decision.
- The Evolution of Baitcasting Rods
- Sensitivity:
- Design:
- Recommendation Best Baitcasting Rods under 100 Dollars
- UglyStik GX2 Casting Rod
- Falcon Rods HD Casting Rod
- SHIMANO FXC 2 piece casting rod
- Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting
- Gonex Fishing Rods Spinning Rod
- BUDEFO Travel Portable Baitcasting Fishing Rods
- SHIMANO SLX CST 72 M XF
- KastKing Brutus Spinning Rods
- Here are the specifications for this rod:
- Abu Garcia Veritas Baitcasting Rod
- Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baitcasting Rod under $100
- Length:
- Action and Power:
- Weight:
- Guides:
- Reel Seat:
- Grip/Handle:
- Length
- Shorter Rods (6’6″ – 6’11”):
- Medium/Long Rods (7’+):
- Action and Power
- Medium-Light Action:
- Medium/Moderate Action:
- Medium-Heavy:
- Heavy:
- Weight:
- Guides:
- Reel Seat:
- Grip/Handle:
- Conclusion:
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recommendation Best Baitcasting Rods under 100 Dollars
| Award | Design | Fishing Rods | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best baitcaster rod | Best Pick  | Check Price | |
| Best casting rod | Staff Pick  | Check Price | |
| Good casting rods | Budget Pick  | Check Price | |
| Best bait caster fishing pole |  | Check Price | |
| Best bait caster rod |  | Check Price | |
| Good baitcasting rods |  | Check Price | |
| A best light baitcasting rod |  | Check Price | |
| Best baitcaster rod medium light |  | Check Price | |
| Best baitcasting rods for beginners |  | Check Price | |
| Great baitcaster rod |  | Check Price |
UglyStik GX2 Casting Rod
Best PickBest baitcaster rod
Thank you for your question. The UglyStik GX2 is a high-quality baitcasting rod that is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
It is made with a combination of graphite and fiberglass, which gives it a strong and durable construction that can hold up to 50 pounds of weight. It is available in a range of sizes from 5’6″ to 7’6″, with medium, heavy, and light power options for 25 lbs.
You can choose either a one-piece or a two-piece configuration, with the two-piece option being more convenient for shipping, storage, and access.
The rod is lightweight at around 3.5 pounds, making it easy to handle and cast. It is suitable for catching a variety of fish, including catfish, with a lure weight range of 5 to 80 oz.
Overall, the UglyStik GX2 is a popular choice for baitcasting due to its impressive features and updated model.
Falcon Rods HD Casting Rod
Staff PickBest casting rod
The Falcon HD Casting Rod is a top choice for anglers looking for a high-quality, affordable option for baitcasting.
Made with a durable graphite blank and suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, this rod is perfect for catching a variety of species.
It features a medium to large backbone and action, making it ideal for lures weighing between ¼ and ½ ounce. The cork handle comes in different sizes depending on the model, and the line rating is between 8 and 17 lbs.
Despite its strength and durability, the Falcon HD Casting Rod is also lightweight and sensitive, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.
It is especially well-suited for coastal fishing and is known for its ability to handle hard-mouthed fish and deliver powerful hook sets. This rod also comes with a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind.
SHIMANO FXC 2 piece casting rod
Budget PickGood casting rods
Shimano FX casting rod is an affordable and versatile option for anglers of all levels, particularly those looking for a rod that is suitable for inshore saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing in streams, rivers, and lakes.
It has a medium power and fast action, making it suitable for casting heavier lures and catching a variety of fish, including catfish and smallmouth.
It has a fiberglass blank and reinforced aluminum oxide guides, as well as a line rating of 6-15 lb and a maximum length of 7’. It is an excellent value for the price and a reliable choice for any angler.
Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting
Best bait caster fishing pole
The Berkley Cherrywood HD casting rod is a popular choice among both professional anglers and recreational fishermen.
Its construction features a cherrywood handle and fiberglass body, making it lightweight, durable, and strong. The overall length of this rod is 7 feet, but it is available in a range of lengths and weights.
One of its standout features is its guides, which are 55% lighter than aluminum oxide guides, making it easier to handle and cast. The medium action of this rod is suitable for bass and other types of fishing, and it can be used with a braided line baitcasting reel.
The affordable price of the Berkley Cherrywood HD casting rod makes it a great value for those looking for a high-quality rod without breaking the bank.
Gonex Fishing Rods Spinning Rod
Best bait caster rod
I recently used the 6’6″ medium heavy spinning rod to land a bass, and I was very impressed with its performance. The rod was very responsive and sturdy, with great action.
It easily yanked the fish to the bank without any problems. I was amazed by the quality of this rod considering its price. I would even compare it to rods that cost between $60 and $80.
My fishing buddy was even a little jealous when I used this rod to power in a fish on some topwater frog action. I think he’ll probably end up getting one too.
One thing I don’t particularly like about this rod is that it’s a two-piece design. However, the pieces are extremely well-fitting and snug, so it’s actually convenient to throw in my truck and bang around.
Considering how affordable it is, I would definitely consider getting another one for my next rig. Overall, this is a great option for anyone looking for a high-performing rod that won’t break the bank.
BUDEFO Travel Portable Baitcasting Fishing Rods
Good baitcasting rods
It took me over a month to receive this 4-piece, 10-foot rod. When it arrived, I was pleased to see that it was extremely well-packaged, with a cloth carry bag inside a thick PVC tube that was cushioned with foam and packed inside a cardboard box.
The rod itself is an attractive black hi-carbon material that is light and easy to assemble. I’ve been using it for freshwater fishing on a small inland lake. The sections fit together securely and the reel was easy to mount.
It’s nice that there is a built-in measure on the rod, although I did notice that the word “length” is misspelled on the specifications stamped onto the rod.
The rod also has a small section of hard foam cushioning to make casting more comfortable.
However, one expert fisherman in my family pointed out that the butt end of the rod is longer than most rods, which makes it more difficult to cast.
It seems like this rod is more suited for surf fishing rather than inland lake fishing, and the light nature of the rod doesn’t seem sufficient for reeling in larger fish.
SHIMANO SLX CST 72 M XF
A best light baitcasting rod
I was so impressed with this baitcasting rod that I bought four more in different powers. I use a medium heavy rod for catching stripers and a medium power rod for largemouth bass.
I love these rods because of their value for the cost. They are highly well-packaged and come with a convenient carry bag. The sections fit together securely and the reel is easy to mount.
The built-in measure is a handy feature, although I did notice that the word “length” is misspelled on the specifications stamped onto the rod.
The rod also has a small section of hard foam cushioning to make casting more comfortable. However, one expert fisherman in my family pointed out that the butt end of the rod is longer than most rods, which makes it more difficult to cast.
It seems like this rod is more suited for surf fishing rather than inland lake fishing, but I’ve been using it for both and have had great success. The light nature of the rod doesn’t seem to be an issue for reeling in larger fish.
Overall, I’m extremely happy with these rods and would definitely recommend them to others. The price is unbeatable for the quality you get, and I think these rods can hold their own against more expensive options on the market.
KastKing Brutus Spinning Rods
Best baitcaster rod medium light
KastKing’s Brutus fishing rod is designed to be one of the toughest on the market, with braid-ready guides and corrosion-resistant stainless steel rings that can withstand even the harshest conditions.
Ttip-top guides are made of Zirconium Oxide, which provides extra strength for your line and can withstand higher pressure due to its high metal content. The durable graphite seats keep the reel firmly fixed during any kind of casting.
Despite its toughness, this rod doesn’t sacrifice performance or feel. The composite blanks have been designed for extreme conditions, hard-fighting fish, and anglers who need superior strength.
The rod has a very reasonable price tag and offers dependable performance day after day. It’s perfect for baitcasting, as it provides great sensitivity for finesse fishing while also being stiffer (fast action) for the ability to reel in larger fish.
Here are the specifications for this rod:
- Length: 7’6″
- Power: Medium heavy
- Action: Moderate fast
- Pieces: 1
- Line weight: 12-25 lbs.
- Lure weight: 3/8-1 1/4 ounces
- Rod weight: 5.5 ounces
Abu Garcia Veritas Baitcasting Rod
Best baitcasting rods for beginners
The Abu Garcia Veritas Series is a great choice for anglers looking for a durable rod that won’t break the bank. With 16 models to choose from, there’s an option for every fisherman. These rods are well-built without sacrificing performance, so you can trust that they will last through years of fishing.
If you’re unsure which model is right for you, the following specifications are a good starting point:
- Rod length: 7’3″
- Power: Medium-heavy
- Action: Fast
With a variety of lengths, powers, and actions available, you can find the perfect Abu Garcia Veritas Series rod to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this series has something for everyone.
Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod
Great baitcaster rod
Abu Garcia is a well-respected brand in the world of fishing, and this rod is a testament to their commitment to creating high-quality gear at an affordable price. With excellent sensitivity and backbone, this rod gives anglers everything they need to feel confident in their hookset.
If you’re interested in purchasing this rod, here are some recommended specifications to consider:
- Rod length: 7′
- Power: Medium heavy
- Action: Fast
- Line weight: 12-20 lbs.
This rod is perfect for those looking for a combination of affordability and quality performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate the sensitivity and backbone of this rod. It’s a great all-around option that is sure to become a favorite among anglers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baitcasting Rod under $100
While baitcasting rods under $100 may not have the latest technology or the highest sensitivity, they can still be excellent options for anglers on a budget. To help you make the best choice, here are some key factors to consider when looking at rods in this price range:
Length:
The length of the rod can affect its versatility and the types of fishing techniques it can be used for. Consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing and choose a rod that’s appropriate for your needs.
Action and Power:
The action of a rod refers to the way it flexes when pressure is applied, while power refers to its strength and ability to handle heavy lures or fish. Consider the type of fish you’ll be targeting and choose a rod with the appropriate action and power.
Weight:
A lighter rod can be easier to use for extended periods of time, but a heavier rod may have more power and sensitivity. Consider your own physical capabilities and the type of fishing you’ll be doing when deciding on the right weight for your rod.
Guides:
The guides on a rod help guide the line as it’s being cast and retrieved. Look for rods with high-quality guides that are smooth and durable.
Reel Seat:
The reel seat is where the reel is attached to the rod. Look for a rod with a secure and comfortable reel seat.
Grip/Handle:
The grip or handle of a rod should be comfortable to hold and allow for a secure grip. Consider the material used and the overall design when deciding on a rod.
Length
The length of a baitcasting rod can greatly affect its performance and suitability for different fishing techniques. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of different rod lengths:
Shorter Rods (6’6″ – 6’11”):
- These rods are ideal for fishing in cover where precise casting accuracy is necessary.
- Shorter rods are easier to control, making them a good choice for techniques that require more precise casts, such as throwing jerkbaits or spinnerbaits.
- Shorter rods also have more pulling power, which can be helpful when trying to get fish out of vegetation or cover.
Medium/Long Rods (7’+):
- A rod with a length of around 7 feet is a good all-purpose casting rod that can be used for a variety of techniques.
- Longer rods allow for longer casts, which can be useful when fishing reaction baits and trying to cover a lot of water.
- Longer rods also give anglers more flexibility in changing the angle of retrieval when fighting a fish or retrieving a lure and can improve hook setting by allowing the angler to take up more line and set faster.
Action and Power
The action of a baitcasting rod refers to the amount it bends from the tip under pressure. Different actions are better suited to different techniques. Here are a few examples:
Medium-Light Action:
- This action is great for finesse techniques, as it has more flex for throwing lighter presentations.
- Presentations such as weightless wacky worms, drop shots, and shaky heads can be effectively fished with a medium-light action rod.
Medium/Moderate Action:
This action is a popular choice for casting crankbaits, as it provides enough flex to ensure a crisp hookset while retrieving.
Many crankbait rods have a medium or moderate action, as the parabolic action of this type of rod is well-suited to setting treble hooks.
Medium-Heavy:
This is a versatile activity that can be used for a variety of techniques.
It provides a strong backbone for flipping and pitching in heavy cover, as well as dragging a Carolina rig along a rocky bottom.
Heavy:
This action is ideal for casting heavier lures and is also a good choice for flipping and pitching in heavy cover.
It provides a fast and crisp hookset, which can be helpful for getting fish out of hazardous areas quickly.
Weight:
Brands are constantly working to reduce the weight of baitcasting rods in order to make them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
When shopping for a rod, be sure to consider the weight and choose one that feels light in your hands. In our rod reviews, we try to provide feedback from anglers on the weight of the rod to give you an idea of how it feels to use.
Guides:
Guides are an important feature of any quality rod. Many affordable rod options now feature advanced, lightweight guides, so even if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can still expect durable and reliable guides from well-known brands.
Reel Seat:
The reel seat is where your baitcasting reel is attached to the rod. It’s important to choose a rod with a sturdy reel seat that holds the reel securely in place without any looseness.
Skeletal reel seats are a more modern design that allows the reel to be in direct contact with the blank. This can improve sensitivity and is becoming more common in baitcasting rods.
Grip/Handle:
The grip or handle of a rod is another important factor to consider when shopping for a new one. There are several different materials and styles to choose from, and it often comes down to personal preference. Here are a few options:
Cork: This is a common material used for freshwater fishing rod handles. It’s lightweight, stylish, and comfortable. Cork handles are often mounted onto a metal frame with a trigger to improve control and comfort.
EVA foam: This is a dense, lightweight material that provides good shock absorption and water and slip resistance. It’s also resistant to stains and changes in temperature and can be shaped with sandpaper for an even more ergonomic feel. Many anglers prefer EVA foam for its durability and sensitivity.
Split grips and full handle grips: These are two different styles of grips that are suited to different techniques. Split grips are often preferred for longer casts, while full-handle grips may be more comfortable for some anglers.
Conclusion:
When looking for a baitcasting rod, it is important to consider the length, power, action, and price of the rod.
You should also consider the materials used in the construction of the rod, as well as any additional features such as guides and grip style.
By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision on the best baitcasting rod for your specific needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a baitcasting rod?
There are several factors to consider when looking for a baitcasting rod:
1. Length: Choose a rod length that is suitable for your intended fishing technique. Shorter rods are better for casting accuracy, while longer rods are better for longer casts and hook setting.
2. Action and power: The action of a rod refers to how much it bends from the tip. Choose a rod action that is suitable for your intended fishing technique. Heavier rods are better for casting heavier lures and flipping and pitching in heavy cover.
3. Weight: Lighter rods are more comfortable to fish with, so consider the weight of the rod when making your selection.
4. Guides: The guides of a rod help to guide the line as it is being cast and retrieved. Look for rods with sturdy, corrosion-resistant guides.
5. Reel seat: The reel seat is the part of the rod where the baitcasting reel is attached. Look for a reel seat that is sturdy and holds the reel firmly in place.
6. Grip/handle: The grip of a rod is important for comfort and control. Consider the material of the grip and whether you prefer a split grip or full handle grip.
What is the best baitcasting rod the market?
It’s difficult to say which is the best baitcasting rod on the market, as different rods are suited to different techniques and applications. Some things to consider when choosing a baitcasting rod include the length, action and power, weight, guides, reel seat, and grip/handle.
For length, shorter rods (6’6″ to 6’11”) may be better for fishing cover where better casting accuracy is necessary, while medium/long rods (7′ and up) are more suitable for all-purpose casting and can be good for longer casts and improving hook setting.
Action and power refer to how much the rod bends from the tip. Medium-light action is good for finesse techniques, medium/moderate action is suitable for crankbaits, medium-heavy action is an all-purpose action that can be used for various techniques, and heavy action is good for casting heavier lures and flipping/pitching in heavy cover.
Weight is an important factor, as lighter rods are more comfortable to use. Guides should be sturdy and able to withstand pressure, and the reel seat should be secure and hold the reel firmly in place. The grip/handle should be comfortable to hold and use, and there are several options such as cork, EVA foam, split grips, and full handle grips to choose from.
What length fishing rod should I get?
The length of the fishing rod you should get depends on a few factors. Here are some things to consider:
The type of fishing you will be doing: Different techniques and environments may require different rod lengths. For example, if you will be fishing in a tight cover, a shorter rod may be more maneuverable. If you will be casting long distances, a longer rod may be more effective.
Your personal preference: Some people prefer longer rods for the extra reach and leverage they provide, while others prefer shorter rods for their ease of handling and control.
The size of the fish you will be targeting: Larger fish may require a longer, more powerful rod to be able to handle the fight.
Ultimately, the best rod length for you will depend on your personal preferences and the type of fishing you will be doing. It may be helpful to try out a few different rod lengths to see which one feels most comfortable and effective for you.
How do I choose a casting rod?
When choosing a casting rod, there are several factors to consider:
Length: The length of the rod will depend on the type of fishing you’ll be doing and the type of lures or baits you’ll be using. Shorter rods are generally better for more accurate casting and for fishing in tight spaces, while longer rods offer more casting distance and can be helpful for clearing obstacles when fighting a fish.
Action: The action of a rod refers to how much it flexes when pressure is applied. Faster action rods are stiffer and better for setting hooks, while slower action rods are more flexible and better for finesse techniques.
Power: The power of a rod refers to its ability to handle different types of lures or baits and the size of the fish it’s designed to catch. Heavy power rods are better for larger lures and bigger fish, while lighter power rods are better for smaller lures and lighter fish.
Material: Rods can be made from various materials, including fiberglass, graphite, and composite materials. Fiberglass rods are generally more durable and less expensive, but they are also heavier and less sensitive than graphite or composite rods. Graphite and composite rods are generally lighter and more sensitive, but they are also more expensive.
Reel Seat: The reel seat is the part of the rod where the reel is attached. Look for a sturdy and well-made reel seat that will hold the reel securely without any looseness.
Guides: The guides are the rings along the length of the rod that the fishing line passes through. Look for guides that are made from durable materials and that are spaced appropriately along the length of the rod.
Grip: The grip is the part of the rod that you hold onto while casting. Look for a comfortable.
How do you pick a baitcasting rod length?
When choosing a baitcasting rod length, there are a few factors to consider:
Fishing technique: Different fishing techniques may require different rod lengths. For example, shorter rods are often better for techniques that require more accuracy, such as flipping and pitching in heavy cover, while longer rods are better for long casting and covering more water.
Fish species: Different fish species may require different rod lengths. For example, a longer rod may be better for targeting larger fish, while a shorter rod may be better for smaller fish.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the best rod length for you will depend on your personal preference and what feels comfortable for you to use.
To choose a baitcasting rod length, it may be helpful to try out different lengths and see which one feels most comfortable and effective for your fishing style. It may also be helpful to consult with a fishing expert or ask for recommendations from other anglers.
