10Best.Guide

Travel Fishing Rod

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • High quality craftsmanship.
  • Great entry-level to mid-level rod.
  • Best value for the price.
  • Lightweight and sensitive.
  • Durable and well-balanced.
Cons
  • Line and drag must be matched to the pole to avoid breakage.
  • New Triumph series rods are stiffer and lack the original "feel".
Bottom Line
St. Croix Triumph rods are high-quality, durable, and well-balanced rods that offer great value for the price. They are lightweight, sensitive, and excellent for trout fishing. However, buyers should be aware of the need to match line and drag to the pole and the possibility of some rods breaking on first use. The warranty program is excellent and provides peace of mind for buyers.
Pros
  • Virtually indestructible and can handle pretty much anything.
  • Good strength and durability.
  • Tough and extremely difficult to break.
  • Nice budget rod.
  • Durable and practical.
Cons
  • Quality control issues.
  • Exposed thread behind the reel seat.
Bottom Line
The Ugly Stik GX2 is a durable and practical budget rod that is virtually indestructible and can handle pretty much anything. However, there are some quality control issues and design flaws that buyers should be aware of before purchasing.
Pros
  • Packs up small for easy storage and transportation.
  • Good flex and sensitivity.
  • Smooth reel with good drag.
  • Beginner-friendly kit with everything needed.
  • Sturdy and well-built.
Cons
  • Breaks easily after a few uses.
  • Line tangles easily.
Bottom Line
This is a good option for those looking for a compact and convenient travel rod, but it may not be suitable for larger fish and may break easily after a few uses. It is beginner-friendly and inexpensive, but may not replace expensive fishing rods.
Pros
  • Compact and convenient for travel
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Well-made rod and reel
  • Good price
  • Tough and lightweight carbon fiber rod
Cons
  • Poor line quality and not enough line on the spool
  • No hook keeper
Bottom Line
The Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a great option for those looking for a compact and convenient travel fishing rod. While it has some drawbacks such as poor line quality and limited sensitivity, it is well-made and durable, making it a good value for the price.
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Telescoping design is convenient for travel
  • Comes with a protective cover
  • Affordable price
  • Good for catching small fish
Cons
  • Not durable for catching large fish
  • Reel may not be as high quality as expected
Bottom Line
The Plusinno telescoping rod and reel combo is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and convenient fishing rod for catching small fish. However, it may not be durable enough for larger fish and some customers have received defective products. The affordable price and unique design make it a good choice for beginners or those looking for a fun and bold accessory for their fishing trips.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Travel Fishing Rod

Overview

A travel fishing rod is a great investment for anglers who love to fish on the go. Whether you're backpacking, camping, or traveling, a travel fishing rod is a convenient and portable option that allows you to enjoy your favorite hobby wherever you go. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this guide, we'll take a look at the different types of travel fishing rods, key considerations to keep in mind, important features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Telescoping Rods: These rods collapse down to a shorter length, making them easy to transport. They are a popular choice for anglers who want a rod that is both portable and versatile.

2. Multi-Piece Rods: These rods come in multiple pieces that can be taken apart and stored in a compact case. They are a good option for anglers who want a rod that is easy to pack and transport.

3. Pack Rods: These rods are designed specifically for travel and come with a carrying case. They are a great option for anglers who want a rod that is both portable and durable.

Key Considerations

1. Length: Consider the length of the rod you need based on the type of fishing you plan to do. Longer rods are better for casting longer distances, while shorter rods are better for fishing in tight spaces.

2. Power: The power of a rod refers to its ability to handle heavy fish. Consider the type of fish you plan to target and choose a rod with the appropriate power.

3. Action: The action of a rod refers to how much it bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods are more sensitive and better for casting long distances, while slow action rods are better for short casts and fighting fish.

Features

1. Material: Look for a rod made from high-quality materials such as graphite or fiberglass. These materials are lightweight, durable, and provide good sensitivity.

2. Handle: Look for a comfortable and ergonomic handle that provides a good grip and reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions.

3. Guides: Look for guides made from high-quality materials such as ceramic or stainless steel. These materials provide good durability and reduce friction when casting.

Prices

Travel fishing rods range in price from around $20 to $200 or more. The price will depend on the type of rod, the materials used, and the brand.

Tips

1. Consider the weight of the rod when choosing a travel fishing rod. A lightweight rod is easier to transport and will reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions.

2. Look for a rod that is easy to assemble and disassemble. This will make it easier to set up and pack away when traveling.

3. Consider purchasing a travel fishing rod combo that includes a reel. This will ensure that the reel is properly matched to the rod and will save you money compared to purchasing them separately.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a travel fishing rod for saltwater fishing?

A: Yes, many travel fishing rods are designed for use in saltwater environments. However, be sure to choose a rod with the appropriate power and material for saltwater fishing.

Q: Can I use a travel fishing rod for fly fishing?

A: Yes, many travel fishing rods are suitable for fly fishing. Look for a rod with a fast action and a lightweight design.

Q: What is the best length for a travel fishing rod?

A: The best length for a travel fishing rod will depend on the type of fishing you plan to do. Consider the location, species of fish, and casting distance when choosing the length of your rod.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Great upgrade for a lower price.
  • Good for wade fishing snook, redfish, and trout.
  • Can fling soft plastics a long distance.
  • Very sensitive and can feel every nibble.
  • Portable and nearly indistinguishable from a standard rod.
Cons
  • Last segment is fragile.
  • Nightmare to set up.
Bottom Line
The BlackHawk II Baitcasting Rod is a great upgrade for a lower price and is good for wade fishing snook, redfish, and trout. It is very sensitive and portable, but the last segment is fragile and it can be difficult to set up and get the eyelits to line up.
Pros
  • Lightweight and compact for easy transportation
  • Sturdy and strong enough to catch big fish
  • Good value for the price
  • Aesthetically pleasing design
  • Good customer service
Cons
  • Reel handle is awkward and uncomfortable
  • Reels may fall apart after a few uses
Bottom Line
This fishing rod and reel combo is a good choice for beginners or those looking for a lightweight and compact option for easy transportation. However, some parts may be cheaply made and the reel handle may be uncomfortable.
Pros
  • Portable and lightweight for travel
  • Good value for the price
  • Great for beginners
  • Good for catching small to large fish
  • Okuma reel is easy to use and spool
Cons
  • Fragile and prone to breaking
  • Not as robust as other travel rods
Bottom Line
The Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit is a good value for those looking for a portable and lightweight fishing rod for travel or camping. However, it is not as robust as other travel rods and can be fragile, so it may not be suitable for heavy-duty fishing.
Pros
  • Good craftsmanship and quality materials.
  • Lightweight and easy to travel with.
  • Performs well for catching various types of fish.
  • Beautiful design and appearance.
  • Affordable price.
Cons
  • Some issues with the reel seat and guides.
  • Difficulty disassembling the rod.
Bottom Line
This travel rod is a great option for those looking for an affordable, lightweight, and easy-to-travel-with fishing rod. While there are some issues with the reel seat and guides, the overall quality and performance make it a good choice for a variety of fishing situations.
Pros
  • Great price and fast delivery
  • Comes with everything a fisherman needs
  • Lightweight and well-fashioned case
  • Practical telescopic rod
  • Good flexibility and well-fixed rings
Cons
  • Hard to store back in the case
  • Line starts going everywhere
Bottom Line
This product is a great value for the price and comes with everything a fisherman needs. However, it may have some issues with storing the line and the quality of the pole.
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