The number of bass fishing rod manufacturers in todays day and age is staggering. Every pro angler recommends the rods they use, but lets be real: theyre sponsored and get paid to promote the product. Of course, the guy with a boat wrapped with brand X logos says theyre the best.

　　Furthermore, one rod may excel in one application but struggle in another. Theres a reason professionals often have 10 or more rods on deck at a time. They need them, and despite what your significant other thinks, its always better to have more rods.

　　I spent months testing over 15 different rods in a myriad of fishing situations. From fishing small creeks and rivers to big water on bass boats, I was able to test rods while fishing for wintering bass, pre-spawn bass, and spawning bass. It became clear which rods performed best in different situations, including cranking rods, swimbait rods, and finesse rods.

　　This guide covers individual rod models. Each of these rods is available in both casting and spinning models, but I cannot speak to other models in the same line. The best rod I tested, the G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR, possesses some voodoo magic, making it perfect for those looking for a do-all baitcaster. On the spinning rod side of things, I found the Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA to provide unmatched sensitivity.

　　A final note: if you need a reel to pair with your new rod, check out my Best Bass Fishing Reels of 2025 buyers guide.

　　Top Picks Best Overall Bass Fishing Rod G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR 9.8/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro Shops Best Bass Fishing Spinning Rod Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA 8.3/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at FishUSACheck Price at Sportsmans Warehouse Best Budget Baitcaster Fenwick Eagle EGLB73MH-FC 7.5/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Pure Fishing Best Budget Spinning Rod Dobyns Fury FR702SF 7.8/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at FishUSACheck Price at Sportsmans Warehouse Best Large Swimbait Rod Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glide Bait 7.9/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro Shops Best Crankbait Rod Shimano Curado Glass CDC72MHGA 8.0/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Fish USACheck Price at Bass Pro Sho Best Bang for the Buck Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature 71MHTF 7.9/10 Rating

　　Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Bass Pro Shops See more picks G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　9.8 How we rate products Specifications Length: 7 Power: Heavy Action: Fast Lure Range: 1/4-1 Pros Fast action that is also parabolic, creating the most versatile rod out there Can throw a wide range of lures Premium lightweight guides CI4+ Reel Seat transmits bites into the anglers hand Made in the USA Cons Price Morgan Nowels The G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR ($650) is the most versatile bass fishing rod that has ever crossed my path. Somehow, this rod has a fast action that is also parabolic. The result? A rod that is fantastic for everything.

　　Most rods are either great for bottom contact baits or moving baits, but not both. That isnt the case here. The fast action makes the Loomis a great jig fishing rod, with its Spiral X graphite construction providing the best sensitivity available for even the most subtle bites. However, this rod is also excellent for throwing moving baits like chatterbaits, spinnerbaits, and even crankbaits.

　　You read that right. A fast-action rod that can easily pass as a crankbait rod. Even though this rod is fast-actioned, I found it has plenty of give to avoid ripping moving baits out of a fishs mouth. I had a day of great crankbait fishing for post-spawn fish with this rod and bounced very few fish.

　　Although its labeled as a heavy power rod, it has a recommended lure range of 1/4 to 1 oz.. I didnt believe that at first, so I tested it out on the lower limits. To my surprise, I was able to throw shaky heads and micro-jigs on this rod without losing noticeable casting distance. Its a baitcaster that can throw heavier finesse baits as well as flip and pitch into cover with heavy weights.

　　Loomis says this rod has a Multi-Taper design, which protects stress points while also eliminating excess material. Aside from the durability and weight savings, I think it also gave this rod its unique action that makes it so versatile. While yes, the rod is expensive, youre really getting multiple rods in one.

　　When I first picked this rod up, it felt like a feather. If youre like me, you probably make fun of people who stress about the weight of a fishing rod. I mean, can you really tell a difference in ounces? Ive always thought thats silly, but this rod is noticeably lighter than anything else. That is due to the multi-taper design, ultralightweight titanium stripper guides, RECOIL guides, and the carbon fiber reel seat. This rod was designed with nothing but performance in mind, and it shows.

　　Im obviously in love with the G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR. Made in the USA, it is as close to perfect as a bass fishing rod can get and comes with a great warranty in case you accidentally break it. Even though it has a high price, I think its worth it, which goes against my usual thrifty attitude towards bass fishing gear.

　　Best Bass Fishing Spinning Rod Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA Check Price at FishUSACheck Price at Sportsmans Warehouse

　　8.3 How we rate products Specifications Length: 7 Power: Medium Light Action: Fast Lure Range: 1/8-7/16 oz. Pros Performs just as well as rods with a higher price point Hallow grip provides increased sensitivity Same CI4+ reel seat found on premium rods further increases sensitivity Great for drop shots to micro jigs Cons Rod labels are in annoying places Hook keeper is small Morgan Nowels Sensitivity is the name of the game when it comes to the Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA ($219). Im an unashamed spinning rod lover and am more than happy to switch over to finesse tackle when the bass arent cooperating. After a few months of testing different rods, I found myself reaching for the Zodias more than any other spinning rod.

　　With spinning tackle, performance comes down to sensitivity, and this rod has it in spades. When dragging light ned rigs on the toughest days, I noticed imperceptible bites that Im fairly certain I had been missing for years. You know when youre fishing and think, Huh, that felt weird. Was that a bite, or bottom? With the Zodias, that thought turns into, Oh, that is definitely a fish. I could not only tell the difference between fish and structure, but also what type of structure my bait was on. I knew when I was on wood vs. rock.

　　Much of the sensitivity is driven by the unique handle on this rod. Rather than having a split grip, it has a single handle, just big enough for your casting hand. Below that, the handle is entirely constructed of a hollow carbon material. Shimano did not place any material over the carbon. The result is a lighter rod, with nothing dampening vibration between the rod and the angler.

　　This rod also has the same CI4+ reel seat found on the most expensive rods on the market. The carbon on the reel seat transmits vibration more effectively into the reel, providing anglers with even greater sensitivity.

　　I am constantly annoyed by the placement of the rod labels. I like to have the rod labels stand out on the lower portion of the rod blank so that I can easily identify which rod is which on the boat deck. Shimano put it in tiny lettering on the bottom side of the handle. If you had two different powered Zodias rods on your deck, it would be almost impossible to differentiate them at a quick glance.

　　This is a medium-light rod, but it is rated to throw heavier finesse lures. I found that on the upper end of its limit, the increased weight will start to deaden some of the sensitivity. Even though it still provides passable performance, a medium power rod will be better for heavier finesse tackle. But if youre throwing ultra-finesse baits the Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA, provides the ultimate performance.

　　Best Budget Baitcaster Fenwick Eagle EGLB73MH-FC Check Price at Pure Fishing

　　7.5 How we rate products Specifications Length: 73 Power: Medium Heavy Action: Fast Lure Range: 1/4-3/4 oz. Pros Price Most comfortable handle we used Sensitivity Great guides for a budget rod Bombs casts Cosmetics are unmatched for the price Cons Struggles on the lighter end of its lure rating Action is more xtra fast, rather than fast Morgan Nowels The Fenwick Eagle EGLB73MH-FC ($99) was one of the better baitcasters I tested, despite its low price. For an all-around rod, you cant go wrong with it. I think its a great fit for new anglers or those who are adding another rod to their arsenal, so they dont have to swap baits as much.

　　My favorite thing about this rod is the handle. The contours are perfect for your hand to naturally fall on it, and your pointer and middle finger land square on the exposed blank on the bottom portion of the handle. The exposed blank is larger than what youll find on other rods. Most only leave enough exposed for one finger to contact the blank. On the Eagle, two full fingers land on the blank.

　　This leads to increased sensitivity when fishing bottom-contact baits. Overall, the sensitivity I experienced with this rod is fantastic. It has landed in my arsenal as a dedicated jig rod due to that.

　　The only complaints I have with the rod arent really complaints, but rather an identification of a mislabel. Fenwick calls this a fast-action rod, but compared to rods from other manufacturers, Id label it as extra fast. Thats not necessarily a bad thing, as its great for quick hooksets. But its further away from a good moving bait rod than other fast-action rods.

　　The rod also struggles on the lighter end of its lure weight spectrum, and I struggled with casting 1/4 oz lures any distance. Again, thats not a problem, as thats pretty light for most baitcasters. A solid spinning rod is usually better for that, anyway.

　　In addition to the Fenwick Eagles top-notch sensitivity, it boasts cosmetics that surpass its price. I appreciate a good looking rod, which is hard to find on a budget. This one looks classy.

　　Best Budget Spinning Rod Dobyns Fury FR702SF Check Price at FishUSACheck Price at Sportsmans Warehouse

　　7.8 How we rate products Specifications Length: 7 Power: Medium Light Action: Fast Lure Weight: 1/8-1/2 oz Pros Price Offers sensitivity well above its price point Durability Cons Struggles with heavier lures Hook keeper placement Morgan Nowels With a recent price increase, the Dobyns Fury 702SF ($149) is on the upper end of the budget rod spectrum, but I think it still offers incredible value. I have used the entire Dobyns Fury line of rods for years as guide rods, and the 702SF is my favorite.

　　The reason the 702 stands out so much is its sensitivity when using ultra-finesse techniques. The fast-action tip is very responsive, and the entire blank transmits vibration and movement into the anglers hands. The other rods in the spinning line are great as well, but this particular one is noticeably more sensitive than the others.

　　This rod can take an absolute beating. Like I said, I use it as a guide rod. That means it gets abused with clients doing all manner of things that should have broken it. It keeps trucking. The guides have been bent on this rod numerous times from going in and out of rod tubes on various boats. All I do is bend them back. I keep expecting one of them to snap, but they are somehow still managing to hold on.

　　While I love the superior sensitivity when fishing with very lightweight techniques, this rod starts to feel dead when throwing things like shaky heads and Texas rigs. The weight of a heavier lure bends the soft tip too much, and it becomes difficult to feel much. Its still passable, but the performance you get with lighter lures spoils you.

　　The hook keeper placement below the handle annoys me. That may be a me thing. I dont see people complaining about hook keepers as much as I do. But, its a pet peeve of mine if it takes longer than a millisecond to stow my bait away. That also brings up a tip. If you are someone who hooks your bait to a rod guide, hook it to one of the arms, not the guide itself. Running a barbed hook will damage the internal fitting and create nicks in the material. Those nicks will start to cut and fray your line. Use a hookkeeper.

　　Despite those few annoyances, if I were on a budget and needed a rod for finesse fishing, Id put full trust in the Dobyns Fury 702SF.

　　Best Large Swimbait Rod Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glide Bait Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　7.9 How we rate products Specifications Length: 79 Power: Heavy Action: Moderate Lure Range: 1-4 oz. Pros Price Textured handle provides superior grip Relatively thin blank and light weight Performs well throughout recommended lure range Cons Micro guides are bad for heavy lines Morgan Nowels Deciding to get into the large swimbait game can be an expensive endeavor, but the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glide Bait ($129) rod will lessen the blow without sacrificing performance. The Carbonlite 2.0 rod series was one of the most popular out there, and recently, Bass Pro updated the line to include technique-specific rods. This one is for big baits, and big fish.

　　Many times youll find a swimbait rod struggles on one end of its lure rating. Some struggle with smaller swimbaits, and others fall apart when casting the real big ones. I had an experience unrelated to bass that demonstrated the Carbonlite Glidebait rods ability to perform throughout its entire range.

　　I was guiding a client who wanted to fish for muskies on a small river while his daughter fished for smallmouth bass. He spent hours with this rod, and in classic musky fashion, had nothing to show for it. Then, we had a hot fish run down his 2 oz. glidebait right back to the boat. After an unsuccessful figure-eight, the fish lurked away. I quickly switched his lure to a small 1 1/4 oz Magdraft, resulting in another follow but no eat. So I went back to a bigger glide bait. Again, no commitment from the fish. In a last-ditch effort, I switched the bait over to a massive 4-oz. swimbait, and the fish disappeared.

　　In the space of 10 minutes, we threw baits covering the entire spectrum of this rods lure rating. There was never any loss of casting distance, and my client told me the rod felt solid while casting all of them. I still think about that fish.

　　The rod also features a fantastic handle. Its a synthetic material that maintains gripiness even when wet. I also appreciated the size of the blank. Many budget swimbait rods are the size of a pool cue. Thats not an exaggeration: they look like theyre made for marlin fishing. The Carbonlite features a relatively thin blank in the realm of swimbait rods, and it doesnt feel cheap or heavy.

　　However, this rod loses points for using micro guides. When fishing with big swimbaits, I prefer using 65-pound braid with a 25-pound fluorocarbon leader. That creates a bulky line to leader connection that does not feed well through tiny guides. When fishing that setup, I have to utilize the infamous FG knot to get seamless casting with the Carbonlite. Its my favorite braid to leader connection, but have fun learning how to tie it. If you opt for straight fluorocarbon on your reel, you wont notice the guides.

　　I understand the desire to save weight with small guides. But this rod is designed to throw lures heavier than a small crappie. No one cares about weight. Aside from that problem, anglers looking to start throwing giant baits for giant bass will get great value from the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glide Bait rod.

　　Best Crankbait Rod Shimano Curado Glass CDC72MHGA Check Price at Fish USACheck Price at Bass Pro Sho

　　8.0 How we rate products Specifications Length: 72 Power: Medium Heavy Action: Moderate Lure Range: 3/8-1oz Pros Fiberglass construction gives perfect parabolic action for treble hooked baits Extra length makes casting long distance a breeze Can handle small 1.5 crankbaits up to smaller deep diving crankbaits Cons Heavy Foam handle material Limited to one technique Morgan Nowels My first fish catch on the Shimano Curado Glass CDC72MHGA ($189) was the most memorable of any of the rods I tested. I was cranking a DT6 around rock and came tight to what I thought was a giant. But, it turned out to be the ol double with a four-pounder and a dink both latched onto my crankbait.

　　The soft fiberglass blank handled it perfectly. Despite the little fish hanging on for dear life as the bigger one went airborne with treble hooks flying through the air, both fish stayed pinned. The moderate action on this rod is not only perfect for fighting fish on treble-hooked baits, but also for the hookset. When you feel a fish while cranking with this rod, you can lean hard into it, and the Curado has plenty of give to ensure the bait doesnt get ripped out of the fishs mouth.

　　The slightly longer length provides excellent casting distance. Covering water is what crankbait fishing is all about, and I found myself burning down the bank with the extra casting distance this rod allowed.

　　I also appreciated this rods ability to handle a variety of crankbaits. Oftentimes, you need a crankbait rod for standard cranking, and a deep cranking rod for depths below 15 feet. However, the Curado can handle a 6XD and many of the smaller deep-diving crankbaits. I also threw 1.5-sized squarebills on it with no problem. It would be undergunned for the huge 10XD, but thats a specialized lure.

　　Due to its glass construction, it is heavier than other rods, but thats an inherent quality of the softer actioned material. However, I do dislike the foam handle. Foam handles have always seemed cheap to me, and youd think for almost two bills you could get some decent cork.

　　Minor annoyances aside, the Shimano Curado Glass CDC72MHGA is the best cranking rod Ive used yet. It replaced the Dobyns cranking rods I was dedicated to for years.

　　Best Bang for the Buck Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature 71MHTF Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　7.9 How we rate products Specifications Length: 71 Power: Medium Heavy Action: Fast Lure Range: 3/8-1 oz. Pros Made in the USA Price Warranty Lightweight Great sensitivity for a baitcaster Grippy Handle Cons Some components feel cheap Not as versatile as the NRX+ Reports of handle de-laminating Morgan Nowels If best bang for the buck sounds like a cop-out award, thats because it kind of is. However, I liked the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature 71MHTF ($199) so much that I wanted it to be featured, even though it couldnt match the performance of the more expensive NRX+. So, bang for the buck really means, best overall for us mere mortals with a reasonable budget.

　　Some people care about this and others dont, but this rod is made right here in the U.S.A.. There arent many rods in this price point that can make that claim. Solid points for American manufacturing.

　　This rod is also very lightweight, and I could feel every fish. You know when you feel that tap, tap and think come on, do it, do it! when a fish is messing with your bait. I experienced that a lot when fishing lightweight Texas rigs for smallmouth with this rod. It carries that sensitivity over to virtually every technique I fished with it.

　　Bass Pro backs this rod with a 10-year warranty that covers breakage under normal fishing conditions. As I stated in the best bass reels article, I know of individuals who have gone into a Bass Pro store with a broken rod and walked out with a brand-new one. To be clear, Bass Pro has not outright said that to me or put in writing that you can do an in-store exchange. Im just saying it has occurred. With most manufacturers requiring you to ship a broken rod and incurring long wait times for a replacement, this is a significant benefit. If you have a Bass Pro or Cabelas near you, there will be no downtime without your favorite rod.

　　I love the grippy handles on this rod. When it gets hot and humid and I get sweaty hands, this rod is still glued to my palm, which helps with aggressive, unexpected bites. There are reports online of the handle delaminating, but I never experienced that. And if I did, Id utilize that nifty warranty.

　　The Bass Pro Johnny Morris Platinum Signature 71MHTF has a great action that makes it a passable chatterbait and spinnerbait rod. Its not as perfect as the NRX+ for those things, but at less than a third of the price, its a great value.

　　Other Sweet Bass Rods I Tested Fenwick Elite ELB71M-XFS Check Price at Pure Fishing

　　8.1 How we rate products Specifications Length: 71 Power: Medium Action: Extra Fast Lure Range: 1/8-3/8 oz. Pros Great cosmetics Casting distance Performs well with jig head minnows A very versatile spinning rod Cons Rod Handle A touch less sensitive than the Zodias Price Morgan Nowels It was so difficult choosing between the Fenwick Elite ELB71M-XFS ($259) and the Zodias for the best spinning rod award. There is a case to be made that I should have switched them around in the rankings, as this is a phenomenal rod. In fact, it may be a better fit for you than the Zodias. Ill explain why.

　　Sensitivity is where the Zodias stood out, but versatility is the name of the game with the Elite. That isnt to say that the Elite isnt sensitive, because it provides plenty of sensitivity. If I were rating sensitivity on a scale of 1-10, the Elite would be 3/4 of a point lower than the Zodias. You still feel just about everything with this rod. I had to cast them side by side for hours to realize that the Zodias gave me a touch more sensitivity with lighter baits. To be fair, the Elite I was testing was a medium-power model, and the Zodias was a medium-light model. That could account for that difference.

　　Despite the Zodias winning out there, it lost out in versatility, which is ironic because the medium-light Zodias claims to have a wider lure range. It doesnt, though. When throwing heavier jig head minnows, the Elite performed great. I was able to bomb casts out with heavier jig heads and never once felt like I was pushing the rod to its limits. The Zodias, on the other hand, started to feel spongy.

　　So, why did the Zodias win out? It came down to two factors: handle design and price. Both of these rods feature unique handles that you wont find anywhere else. I liked the Zodias handle because it didnt affect comfort and added loads of sensitivity. The partially caged handle on the Elite (the best way I can describe it) may have added sensitivity, but I found it uncomfortable. The Elite is also $40 more.

　　Despite those two downsides, I would still highly recommend this rod. If you value versatility over sensitivity, the Fenwick Elite should be your choice. Its a solid do-everything spinning rod.

　　Abu Garcia Veritas Tournament Edition VXTS70-5 Check Price at Pure FishingCheck Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　6.9 How we rate products Specifications Length: 7 Power: Medium Action: Fast Lure Range: 3/16-5/8 Pros Can throw many lures usually relegated to baitcasters Handle design puts rod blank on a large surface area of your hand Great guides Cons Not as sensitive as other rods in its price point Price Morgan Nowels I believe the Abu Garcia Veritas Tournament Edition VXTS70-5 ($199) is a rod that will be a good fit for thousands of anglers. From a super technical, sensitivity-based standpoint, it struggles against the competition in its price range. What it does offer, though, is a rod that functions as a baitcaster for anglers who only use spinning equipment. Let me explain.

　　Spin fishing rods are all about feel with lighter lures. This rod doesnt necessarily excel in that area, but it provides passable performance. The other side to that is that most spinning rods absolutely fail when fishing heavy jigs, spinnerbaits, and other power fishing techniques. Thats why bass fishermen have baitcasters.

　　But what about the scores of pond hoppers and weekend warriors who are intimidated by baitcast equipment and pound fish exclusively with spinning gear? There are a lot of those people out there. And I think this is the rod for them.

　　With the Veritas, I was able to have beginner clients effectively fishing jigs and other baits usually relegated to baitcasters. Its a stiff rod, which is why I think its not as good as others in the pure spinning category, but that same stiffness is what gives it power to perform double duty.

　　Its not a total clunker on the spinning side. The handle on the rod was thought out well, and your entire thumb and a chunk of your palm naturally rest on a section of exposed blank. That does allow you enough sensitivity to feel lightweight lures on the bottom. The best sensitivity? No. But it was enough to get the job done.

　　The Abu Garcia Veritas Tournament Edition VXTS70-5 features titanium guides with zirconium inserts that will stand up to the test of time. If I were looking for a single rod for bass fishing and didnt know how to throw a baitcaster, this is the rod I would pick.

　　Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Carbonlite Frog Check Price at Bass Pro Shops

　　7.5 How we rate products Specifications Length: 69 Power: Heavy Action: Fast Lure Rating: 1/4-1 oz. Pros Short length allows anglers to walk baits with ease Power capable of pulling bass out of any cover Grippy Handle Warranty Cons Shorter length reduces casting distance Cant double as a flipping and pitching rod like other frog rods Morgan Nowels Topwater bites make me grin ear to ear, and the Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Frog Rod ($119) has been making a lot of those smiles happen lately. Frog rods come down to a lot of personal preference, especially regarding length. Here are my thoughts on it and how this rod stacks up.

　　Many people recommend longer frog rods for casting distance. I understand that. However, for some anglers, longer rods make working walking baits very difficult. For guys who are perched high above the water on a boat deck, it doesnt matter too much. But for those low to the water, a 76 rod makes walking almost impossible. For years, I fished out of a kayak and on the bank, and guess what? Those long rods werent functional. At all.

　　Another rod in the new technique-specific carbonlite series, the Bass Pro Frog Rod comes in at a very manageable 69. This length made walking frogs a breeze, whether I was on the bank, in a small raft, or on my bass boat. Im of the opinion that for most anglers, a short rod is better.

　　There are downsides to it though. I cant cast this rod as far as some of my longer frog rods. That is tough when covering vast expanses of water. The shorter length also means you have to pack a bit more punch into your hookset. However, I can overcome those obstacles. I cant overcome a rod being too long to use while in a small vessel functionally, so Bass Pro gets a nod from me on the length.

　　Oftentimes, I use frog rods for flipping and pitching. This one is too short for that. Its a dedicated topwater stick.

　　The Bass Pro Johnny Morris Carbonlite Frog Rod is a powerhouse, and you can pull fish out of any cover with it. When you set the hook, it feels like youre driving the fish into a cement wall. If you want a rod that makes walking a bait easier, the search is over.

　　Best Bass Fishing Rod Comparison Chart

　　(Photo/Morgan Nowels) Weve all done it: you go into a tackle shop looking for a new rod and give it the ol wiggle test. Maybe you pin the rods to the ground to check out the differences in action. In reality, this doesnt tell you a single thing about the rods performance, but its all you can do without buying the rod.

　　Fortunately, I was able to get all of these rods out on the water. Id say that testing rods with actual fish involved gives a lot more insight than just holding them in a rod aisle.

　　Who I Am

　　(Photo/Alexis Totin) Im a bona fide fishhead and spend more time on the water in one year than most people do in ten due to poor life decisions. My fishing obsession began in childhood, and I started working in the fishing industry while in college thirteen years ago. I have worked in it ever since as a fishing guide, outdoor writer, and sales rep.

　　I began seriously bass fishing a decade ago, seeking something to focus my angling efforts on beyond my full-time job as a fly fishing and ice fishing guide. Years ago, I dabbled in tournaments, fishing as a co-angler before I bought my own boat. While I no longer fish in tournaments, I do guide bass fishing trips in Middle Tennessee in both my bass boat and a small raft on secluded rivers. P.S. you can find a set of slick shades like mine in our best fishing sunglasses buyers guide.

　　My Testing Grounds and Process

　　With the Cumberland River minutes from my house, I was able to get out most evenings to test the best bass fishing rods; (Photo/Alexis Totin) I tested these rods on lakes and river systems in the Middle Tennessee area. These include Percy Priest, Old Hickory, the Cumberland River, and smaller creeks and rivers that will remain nameless. This gave me valuable insight for both the guy who carries one or two rods while creek fishing and the guy who has 20 rods stuffed into a bass boat.

　　Bass rods are diverse. Some are better suited for specific techniques than others, and I wanted to ensure that I covered a wide range of lure types during different seasons. I threw crankbaits, chatterbaits, A-Rigs, glide baits, football jigs, dropshot rigs, ned rigs, etc, on these rods. You get the picture.

　　I also put them in the hands of clients to gauge their thoughts. They provided me with great feedback on which products work best for beginner and intermediate anglers.

　　Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Bass Fishing Rod

　　(Photo/Morgan Nowels) There are more bass fishing rods than any other category of rod in the world. This is due to the fact that the bass is one of the most pursued fish in the United States. The limitless options can be daunting to pick through, and it can seem like there is a specialty rod for every situation (because there is). Below are some key considerations to keep in mind when purchasing a rod.

　　And if youre looking for a reel to pair with your new rod, check out my Best Bass Fishing Reels of 2025 buyers guide.

　　Spinning Rod Vs. Baitcasting Rod

　　Baitcast rods like the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature are tougher for beginners to use, but they excel at casting heavy lines. (Photo/Alexis Totin) The first decision you need to make is whether to purchase a spinning or baitcasting rod. Spinning rods are the traditional fishing rod most people are familiar with. The reel hangs underneath the rod and is controlled by a bail. A baitcasting rod has the reel on top and is controlled by thumbing the spool.

　　Spinning rods excel at finesse fishing. That means using light lines and lures with presentations that rely on sensitive rods, such as the Fenwick Elite ELB71M-XFS. In the bass world, spinning rods are associated with lighter lines. As such, they should be used more in open-water situations. Often, you will not have a heavy enough line on a spinning rod to pull bass out of a thick cover.

　　Baitcasting rods excel at power fishing techniques. With baitcasters, anglers fish with heavier lines and heavier baits. Baitcasting rods give you better accuracy and line control and are better for flipping and pitching.

　　Devout bass guys will often carry at least five of each, and most bass anglers will end up purchasing at least one of each: a spinning rod for finesse baits and a baitcaster like the G-Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR for power fishing.

　　You dont have to have one of each to go chase bass. Its possible to fish with lures that most people would use on a baitcasting rod on a spinning rod and vice versa. You need to follow the lure weight recommendation on the rod, though.

　　Lure Weight Recommendation

　　The best overall rod, the G-Loomis NRX has a huge range of lures it can throw; (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Before picking up your next rod, consider what size lures you plan on throwing with it. You dont have to follow the recommendation to a T, but you shouldnt deviate too far from the recommended weight. Throwing lures outside of the recommended weight will result in a loss of effective casting distance and, in the case of going too heavy, can break the rod.

　　Some specialty rods have a limited range of lure weights. While that may seem like a downside to a beginner bass fisherman, it usually means that the manufacturer designed that rod to excel at what it does. For example, the Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA is the best drop shot rod I fished by a mile. Anglers who specialize in a particular technique find great value in technique-specific rods.

　　Other rods, such as the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature JPL71MHTF, have a wide range of lure weight recommendations. These are often generalist rods that allow you to throw numerous baits with a single rod.

　　Bass Fishing Rod Power

　　Medium-heavy powered rods like the Fenwick Eagle pictured offer diverse applications; (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Rod power is directly correlated to the lure weight recommendation on the rod. It refers to the rods backbone and the weight it can handle. Youll see it described in two ways: a clear-cut label that says light (L), medium light (ML), medium (M), medium heavy (MH), heavy (H), and extra heavy (XH), or a number system like youll see on the Dobyns Fury 702SF. The number systems are manufacturer-specific and similar to the standard label, with lower numbers being lighter than higher numbers.

　　To illustrate rod power, imagine rods being held parallel to the ground with a 2-ounce weight attached to them. An ultralight rod would flex so much that the weight would hit the ground. A swimbait rod with a heavy action, like the Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glidebait Rod, would bend minimally and keep supporting the weight in the air.

　　Rod power is not standardized across manufacturers. For example, the medium-heavy Fenwick Eagle EGLB73MH-FC feels more like a heavy. You can use the rod power to get a general idea and then focus specifically on the exact lure weight the manufacturer recommends.

　　Medium-light and medium are common power ratings for spinning rods. The heavier rods usually refer to baitcasters. A medium-heavy is your standard, do-it-all, versatile stick. It wont excel on the edges of its limits, but there are a lot of baits and techniques that pair well with a medium-heavy rod.

　　XH rods are power-houses, made to cast huge baits like plastic swimbaits or very heavy punching rigs.

　　Rod Action

　　Parabolic rods, like the Shimano Curado Glass in the photo, bend deeply when fish are hooked; (Photo/Alexis Totin) Rod action refers to where the rod bends. It is labeled as moderate, fast, extra-fast, or a combination of those. It is different than rod power. You can choose a medium-heavy rod with either a fast or moderate action. The rods have the same amount of backbone and lifting power, but they will bend in different spots when subjected to a load.

　　Under pressure, rods with a moderate action bend lower in the blank and are described as having a parabolic action. I guess some bass dudes took a pre-calc class.

　　Moderate rods are best for crankbaits and other treble-hooked baits. Rods with this action, like the Shimano Curado CDC72MHGA, are more forgiving on the hookset, and the deeper bend keeps the treble hooks from getting ripped out of a fishs mouth. It also gives more flex during the fight, which helps keep fish pinned with lures like jerkbaits that are notorious for falling out.

　　Extra-fast action rods are on the other end of the spectrum. They bend at the very tip of the rod. These are best for situations where quick, powerful hooksets are needed. Take, for example, flipping into thick lily pads or cattails. An extra-fast rod will ensure rapid, deep hook penetration.

　　You can find rods that fit between those options to give you exactly what youre looking for. However, if youre a beginner, dont feel like you have to get a certain rod for every little thing. It is absolutely possible to fish a crankbait on an extra-fast rod and catch fish. You should focus on the types of baits you throw the most and make your decision based on that.

　　Bass Fishing Rod Length

　　Heavy and extra heavy powered rods designed to throw heavy lures are often longer, like the 79 Johnny Morris Carbonlite Glidebait rod; (Photo/Morgan Nowels) Bass fishing rods range from 68 to 8 long, with the majority of them landing in the 7-76 range. There are some key benefits to longer and shorter rods.

　　Longer rods (73 and up) cast further, have more power, and excel at setting the hook at a distance. They are best for techniques that demand long casts, such as deep-diving crankbaits and swimbaits.

　　When setting the hook, the tip of a longer rod covers more distance and thus picks up more line, resulting in a better hookset. Length is also how many manufacturers beef up heavier-powered rods.

　　Shorter rods (68 and up) will cast more accurately and make it easier to manipulate lures with the rod itself. A great example is a jerkbait. To fish a jerkbait, you pop the rod tip and then reel in the slack. Shorter rods make this much easier, as long rods can be unwieldy and smack things as you work the bait.

　　Handle Type

　　My favorite spinning rod, the Shimano Zodias has a unique handle that increases sensitivity;(Photo/Morgan Nowels) Many rods on the market offer multiple handle options, including straight and split grips.

　　This ultimately comes down to personal preference. A split grip allows for greater sensitivity, as you can feel the blank itself while fishing. A full cork grip is a classic look that really comes down to that- looks.

　　While a split grip allows for a touch more sensitivity, I dont really notice as big a difference as some people make it out to be. Even with a split grip, your hand is still on a cork handle. The only rod I tested that I felt gave me increased sensitivity in spades was the Shimano Zodias ZDS70MLA, but its not really a split grip. It has one handle, and the rest of it is exposed plastic material that doesnt dampen vibration like standard handles do.

　　Most handles are constructed with cork or foam. Again, it comes down to personal preference. You shouldnt let the handle type dictate your rod choice. You should select a rod based on the above factors and then choose the handle type you prefer, if the manufacturer offers different options.

　　Bass Fishing Rod Material

　　Carbon fiber rods like the Fenwick Elite offer lightweight sensitivity; (Photo/Alexis Totin) In modern times, almost all bass fishing rods are built with carbon fiber, whereas in the past, rods were made of fiberglass. Carbon is lighter, more sensitive, and stiffer than fiberglass.

　　There are some rods on the market today that are made from fiberglass: dedicated crankbait rods. Remember when we were talking rod actions and said moderate actions were better for treble-hooked baits? Fiberglass is a slower material, so it works great for techniques that need slower actions.

　　Plan on getting carbon fiber rods exclusively, except for cranking rods. where there are some great fiberglass and glass/carbon hybrids on the market, like the Shimano Curado CDC72MHGA, hands down my favorite cranking rod.

　　Price and Value of the Best Bass Fishing Rods

　　Premium rods will have the best components, like the RECOIL guides found on the G-Loomis NRX+; (Photo/Morgan Nowels) You can find bass rods for dirt cheap, or spend your life savings while trying to fill your rod lockers. However, not every single one of your rods needs to be the most expensive. There are guys fishing the Bassmaster Elite Series with nothing but budget rods on their boat deck. Consider what benefits you need from more expensive rods before making a purchase.

　　Budget Budget bass fishing rods fall in the $70-$150 range. There are rods cheaper than that. However, they wont be specifically designed for bass. In this price range, you get a solid, dedicated bass rod.

　　Budget rods tend to be heavier and less sensitive. Manufacturers have to use lower-quality carbon fiber to keep costs down, so you lose out on the benefits of the latest carbon technology.

　　You will also find lower-quality reel seats and guides. The reel seat is primarily cosmetic and doesnt affect performance too much, but for bougie folks, a plastic reel seat can be a noticeable downgrade.

　　The lower-quality guides make a real difference. Less durable rod guides can become chipped or develop grooves over time, potentially snapping your line at the worst possible moment. Most rods in this category have serviceable guides; however, over a long period, you may start to experience line fray.

　　These rods may also not have a warranty or replacement program, so if you break one, youre out of luck.

　　The real advantage of budget rods in bass fishing is the ability to get more rods to cover a wide range of applications. If I were starting out and had a $200 rod budget, I would rather get one budget baitcasting rod and one budget spinning rod over a single mid-tier rod. And there are some real hidden gems in this category, such as the Dobyns Fury 702SF, which offers amazing sensitivity at an unbeatable price.

　　Mid Tier This is where most dedicated bass fishermen live. A mid-tier rod in the $150-$300 range will provide a step up in technology, offering increased sensitivity and lighter materials. The blank will be thinner and feel lighter in hand. Some rod manufacturers, like Bass Pro Shops, top out in this price range and offer the highest-quality rod they make, such as the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature rods, which are manufactured in the USA.

　　In this range, youll start to find more technique-specific rods, which will give you the best performance possible for a singular fishing application. As anglers get more specialized and figure out what techniques they fish the most, they often opt for a higher-quality rod that fits their style.

　　At this price point, youll receive a warranty that covers defects, as well as a replacement program for accidental breakage. For example, the Shimano Zodias is part of the Shimano Express Program that covers unintentional breakage. With this program, Shimano will replace your broken rod for 50 percent of the rods MSRP.

　　However, premium rods have better replacement programs. Mid-tier rods also are not on the cutting edge of technology, with the best of everything. You may not have the latest and greatest in rod blank technology, the lightest rod guides, or classy cosmetics.

　　Premium Premium bass fishing rods are going to give you the most sensitive rod out there. Sensitivity can be key for anglers who want to feel even the slightest bites, and if thats you, a rod in the $450+ range is the way to go.

　　They will also be the lightest rod you can find, with lightweight, durable titanium guides and lightweight reel seats. When you pick up a premium rod, you can immediately tell a difference in the in-hand weight.

　　These rods are backed with great replacement programs. Our best overall rod, the G-Loomis NRX, has a no-questions-asked replacement program. Loomis ships a replacement rod to you for a fee of $175, which is about 25 percent of the MSRP.

　　These rods are a real treat to have, but most people cant afford to fill their rod lockers with them. Some guys carry over twenty rods on their boat. The NRX runs at a steep $650. You do the math.

　　Because of the specialized nature of bass rods and the number I carry, I limit the amount of premium bass fishing rods I have. I prefer premium rods in two situations: when fishing with finesse and sensitivity-focused techniques, and when Im carrying one rod on foot and want to have the best.

　　Frequently Asked Questions

　　(Photo/Morgan Nowels) Why do bass anglers have so many rods? Bass anglers have multiple rods because they fish such a diverse range of lures. Bass lures can range in weight from 1/16th oz finesse baits to huge 8 oz swimbaits. No single rod can cast that wide of a range, so bass anglers need to get specialized rods for different lure sizes and techniques.

　　Is a spinning rod or a baitcaster better for bass? Neither is better, they just do different things. Spinning rods are better for finesse fishing and baitcasters are better for power fishing.

　　If you had to have one rod for bass fishing, a 7 medium heavy fast action baitcasting rod would be best, as it will cover a wider range of lures and techniques better than anything else. However, baitcasters can be intimidating for new anglers so many newcomers will settle on a 7 medium fast action spinning rod.

　　Are expensive bass rods worth it? Expensive rods do have some clear benefits over their budget-friendly counter parts. They will be the most sensitive rods youll find, which translates to detecting subtle bites that youd miss on less expensive rods. They also often come with great warranty and replacement programs in the event you break your rod.

　　If youre on a tight budget though, its best to get multiple lower cost rods for different techniques than one expensive rod.

　　What three rods for bass? If youre limited to three rods, you should be able to fish most techniques and lures with the following: A 7 medium power, fast action spinning rod for finesse fishing, a 7 medium heavy, moderate action baitcaster for moving baits, and a 7 heavy power, fast action baitcaster for everything else.