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Offshore fishing is a fun, quick way to get a couple of good fish just from dropping in a line. There is no need for lots of gear and gadgets for offshore fishing. It can be frustrating having a large rod that just seems to weigh you down wherever you decide to fish. This is where an ultralight rod comes into play to save the day. We have put together a list of some of the best ultralight fishing rods that won’t weigh you down on your fishing adventures. Everything from the rod, reel, and the line are light as a feather.
During our review we considered factors such as durability, weight, construction, and material. All these factors play a big role in how light but sturdy a rod is going to be. Some of the best ultralight spinning rods are shorter rods that offer benefits such as agility and control. This is going to be ideal for maneuvering and accuracy. Lightweight rods are ideal for offshore fishing, where casting long distances isn’t the main goal. Throughout our review, we choose a wide variety that is a premium, affordable, and high quality so you can find the right ultralight rod for you.
G.Loomis Classic Trout Panfish Spinning Rods
St Croix PS70MF Premier Graphite Spinning Fishing Rod
Eagle Claw FeatherLight 2-Piece Spinning Rod
Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod
Sougayilang Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light Trout Rod
Abu Garcia Ike Dude Spincast Fishing Reel & Rod Combo
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo
Daiwa DSK25-B/F662M D-Shock Freshwater Spinning Combo
Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2-Piece Fishing Rod Combo
Ugly Stik Ultralight Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
With so many different rods on the market, it can be difficult to know exactly what to look out for. We have created a comprehensive guide so you know what features are important.
An ultralight fishing rod sounds like it couldn’t hold much. But finding a rod that is flexible and can withstand some bending and breaking is important.
Most ultralight fishing rods are made with either carbon material or fiberglass. Both offer lots of flexibility. I prefer carbon material for a body because I find this tends to be a bit more durable.
It is important to have a long-lasting, strong, grippy but comfortable handle on a fishing rod. This is where the most run-down is going to occur. And the rod needs to be grippy enough to handle a fish. A fishing rod is always being held during long days on the water and must not break down after repeated use.
Some of my favorite materials for fishing rod handles are cork and lightweight foam. Although, for long trips out on the water I would suggest cork. I really like cork material because it is long-lasting and dries quickly. This way, no mold or dirt can get absorbed in the cork without you knowing.
Having a handle that is both at the top and the bottom is convenient. This allows you to have a double hand position or to change your grip every once in a while. I am not a huge fan of the foam handles but many of my friends are. Foam handles are soft and comfortable. This is ideal for those that need extra comfort throughout their fishing day.
One of the most important parts of a rod is the grip. All of this action ends up right at the handle. Having a strong grip that won’t slip is important for long casts and long days on the water.
If you are someone who is looking to cast out far when fishing offshore, then I would suggest a longer handle. A longer handle will give you more control and won’t whip right out of your hands. This is important because it will allow you to manage and maneuver your long cast just how you want.
On the opposite end, if you are looking for a shorter cast, then there is no need for an extraneous handle. A small or short handle will suffice just fine. Shorter handles are easier to use while getting bait or doing other tasks. The handle won’t get in your way.
There are two different handle types, a split grip, and a pistol grip. The main difference between these two grips is the types of fishing they are used for. Like I mentioned above, there is short casting and then there is long casting.
So a split grip is going to be ideal for longer casts such as fishing for bass. Whereas the pistol grip or also known as the full grip is going to be ideal for short casting. Most of the ultralight poles are going to feature a full grip which is better for short-distance casting. I really like having a nice pull pistol grip for short casting and even for a long cast here and there.
So one of the words I mentioned often was the design and weight of the blank. The blank is a fisherman’s lingo way of saying the main portion of the rod. The main portion of the rod also known as a blank is usually going to be made out of graphite, carbon fiber, or fiberglass.
Most fishing rods are made out of fiberglass and this is known to be flexible and durable. I really think that fiberglass is the best bet for a fishing rod. There are many designs out there that come with a graphite exterior but this does tend to make the pole less flexible.
Most ultralight poles are going to be made of fiberglass and either graphite or carbon fiber blend. Fiberglass is light and flexible while graphite and carbon fiber offers more structure. Since ultralight poles are for light, short cast fishing usually then there is not much of a need for graphite or carbon fiber. However, transporting it can be damaging so graphite and carbon fiber can help increase the lifespan of the pole preventing damage from happening.
This is a very common question that many people have: what is the right rod length for me? And the answer depends on if you are a novice or a fully seasoned professional.
If you are a beginner then I would suggest a rod length around 6 and a half to 7 feet long. This is a very standard rod length that will give you lots of control and will help you cast farther.
However, if you are someone that has been around the pond a few times then it is up to you. Rod length preferences are up to the professional. Each length offers different benefits and drawbacks. Aiming around the mid-length 7-foot range is ideal for all-around good fishing.
First of all, a guide is typically a metal ring that lays along the length of your pole. This guide helps keep the line in check and balanced while fishing. Your line will go right through the center of two, three, or four guides and off the top of the pole and into the water.
Knowing the number of guides is important for how much sensitivity you want. In my experience, the more guides mean more sensitivity. Personally, I like to have at least 3 or 4 guides. This way, I know exactly when the fish is biting. Especially with ultralight poles, I like to have around 4. The smaller the fish, the lighter their bites are ultralight poles are made for tinier fish. So this way, when a panfish are biting you won’t miss it.
The “action” is a more precise term that fishermen use when they describe where the pole bends. There are several different types of actions that a pole can have.
Poles that are lightweight tend to vary on their action. I usually try to seek out a pole that has moderate or fast action. I like to have fast action especially with lightweight poles so I can always see when someone is nibbling. The more action a pole has generally, the more sensitivity there is. This helps you know when you should strike and hook the fish.
This may be a common term that shows up often when talking about fishing poles. For starters, power means how much weight a fishing pole can handle. So, if a fishing pole has low power it can generally only take on lighter fish. On the other hand, if a fishing pole has high power, it can take on monster fish.
If you are looking for an ultralight fishing pole you will most likely want a pole that is low power. This is ideal for catching bluegills, crappies, and small bass.
It is important to consider what pole will best match up with the line you intend to use. Even when a line is under just a few pounds off, it can be prone to breaking. It is important to have a pole that is comparable to your line weight.
I usually prefer to have a pole that is lighter but a line that can hold more weight. You want to make sure that you are never going the other way around. This can cause serious damage to your pole.
Using an ultralight fishing rod takes practice and that’s completely okay. It takes time to figure out the quirks and the finesse of a lighter rod.
Usually, lighter rods are best used for offshore fishing but it doesn’t have to be limited to just that. I typically take my light rods on quick trips that aren’t in a lake full of strong fish.
With a light rod, you mainly want to stick to areas that have smaller panfish or smaller crappies. I have also used an ultralight rod to catch bass as well. Sticking to fishing offshore is your best bet for catching these small guys. You want to make sure that your rod is always equipped with a line that can withstand at least up to 8 pounds. I typically would not go any lower than that. This way, if you do end up catching a bigger fish, you aren’t risking damage to your fishing pole.
It is a different experience casting with an ultralight fishing rod compared to the typical regular fishing pole. Since it is lighter than the typical rod, it can be more sensitive to overcasting.
Overcasting is when you overthrow. This ends up putting your lure in a completely different place than you intended. To prevent overthrowing with an ultralight rod, I would highly suggest trying a flip and pitch casting method. With this method, you will end up using more of your wrist to flip quicker and more accurately than before.
It is important to cast quickly, especially with a lighter rod. This is because the lighter rod is a bit more unpredictable when it comes to aiming exactly where you want it to go.
| Image | Title | Score | Price | View On Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 
| G.Loomis Classic Trout Panfish Spinning Rods | 4.1/5 | $$$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| St Croix PS70MF Premier Graphite Spinning Fishing Rod | 5/5 | $$$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Eagle Claw FeatherLight 2-Piece Spinning Rod | 4.5/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Cadence CR7 Spinning Fishing Rod | 4.4/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Sougayilang Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light Trout Fishing Rods Rod | 5/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Abu Garcia Ike Dude Fishing Reel & Rod Combo | 4.1/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo | 4.2/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Daiwa DSK25-B/F662M D-Shock Freshwater Spinning Combo | 4.4/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and 2-Piece Fishing Rod Combo | 4.1/5 | $ | View Product On Amazon |
 
| Ugly Stik Ultralight Elite Spinning Fishing Rod | 4.6/5 | $$ | View Product On Amazon |
Key Features:
This lightweight spinning rod is ideal for catching trout right offshore. The lightweight carbon filter material is very durable and can withstand years of wear and tear. The G. Loomis Classic is our best overall choice for an ultralight spinning rod. With this rod, you can feel just about every little bite and nibble you get. It is a very sensitive pole that feels just about every movement.
I really like carbon material because it gives lots of strength to the pole. It can be difficult to find a pole that is both light and strong. This G. Loomis Classic is perfect for a combination of the two. This pole is ideal for catching lots of trout or panfish offshore. It is ideal for shorter casts as most lightweight poles are. This ultralight trout rod delivers strength and power. The carbon filter material is top of the line, so this does come at a bit steeper price point. Most carbon filter poles are going to be a bit higher in price compared to fiberglass rods.
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Key Features:
This ultralight St. Croix Graphite spinning rod has got us hooked. It is a long rod that can handle around 6 to 12-pound line when fishing offshore. One of my favorite features is that this rod was supremely crafted in the USA. The aluminum oxide guides and the graphite construction make it one of the best ultralight spinning rods on the market.
The design of the rod features a cork handle for easy gripping every time. Also, the rod has two coats of flex coat slow-cure finish. This makes the rod extra flexible and reinforces its strength. This rod is one of the most flexible and durable lightweight spinning rods due to the reinforced flex coat. Lastly, one of the best features is the keyhole which can hold your hook while traveling. This hole is designed for keeping your pole safe from scratching or other damages that can happen from having a loose hook.
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Key Features:
This is one of the lightest and thinnest ultralight rods on the market. If you are looking for a compact, thin design then this is going to be your best bet. This ultralight pole is perfect for largemouth bass as well as perch.
As an extremely budget-friendly choice, the ultralight construction is unbeatable. It is constructed out of flexible fiberglass. The fiberglass design is sensitive and lightweight, allowing you to feel every movement from fish. This way, you can hook your next catch with ease. This rod is ideal for pan fishing just along the shore in a moment’s notice.
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Key Features:
This ultralight one of a kind Cadence Spinning Rod features stainless steel guides for easy maneuvering. Made out of 40-ton graphite, this spinning rod is heavy duty and ready to take on any fish. The pole is wrapped in a durable and flexible carbon veil which improves sensitivity and strength.
One of my favorite features is the option for two different grips. Oftentimes, these ultralight poles come with only a cork grip which is effective and doesn’t bring the weight up. However, I like that there is a choice to switch back to a steel grip when need be. This gives the pole added versatility.
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This trout catching rod is designed to be extremely strong and lightweight. The Sougayilang rod uses flexible carbon material on the inside and extra-strong graphite on the outside. This design allows for lots of flexibility but for a strong, hard-hitting shell that can’t break.
A rod that can bed to great lengths without breaking, it also features a comfortable grip too. What this rod offers that no other rod does is a double grip platform. The cork grips are lightweight and easy on the hands. What Sougayilang did was construct two different grip spot points for an easy hold.
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Abu Garcia is a grassroots company that grew from the simple love of fishing. Their thoughtful and lightweight design is ideal for catching crappie, trout, and bass. This pole features a rod and a reel for one budget-friendly price. It can accommodate up to a 30-pound line for the little catches and even some bigger ones too.
On this pole, I really like the aluminum spool which makes the pole even lighter. This way, you can have both the graphite which provides strength and still have a lightweight pole. This pole features a soft grip foam handle for a comfortable fishing excursion every time. The colors of the pole are unique, a sleek white, red, and black design shows the true Abu Garcia flair out on the water.
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Coming from the Ugly Stik family, the Shakespeare GX2 fishing rod combo is an easy set up for beginners. It is our best value choice in terms of flexibility, easy setup, and price. It comes in two separate parts which are easy to set up and take down. This is ideal for on the go travel to fish when you want and where you want. This comes with both the rod and the reel so there is no reason to buy extra accessories and parts. With it’s all in one design, the Ugly Stik is guaranteed to perform.
One of my favorite parts that are featured on Shakespeare is the 4 ball bearings and one-way clutch instant system. This is ideal for beginners who want a smooth working reel. The 4 bearings are made out of stainless steel, which prevents rust, wear, and tear. This rod is ideal for someone who wants to have all of the best accessories in one ultralight rod but doesn’t want to break the bank.
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This rod and reel combo by Daiwa is trustworthy and reliable. Since both the rod and reel are included, it is ideal for beginners who want to start fishing with little hassle. This rod and reel combo is our best budget-friendly duo for the buck. As our budget-friendly choice, this is a high-quality rod featuring an aluminum spool and a bendable fiberglass body.
A rod and reel that features a sleek black design deliver a high performance every cast. My favorite part about this combo fishing pole is the ABS machine aluminum spool which prevents tangles and automatically clicks into gear. This is very user-friendly for beginners who don’t know all of the in’s and out’s of fishing quite yet. It is one of the best lightweight fishing rods for the money and won’t leave your wallet empty.
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If you are in search of kid-friendly, lightweight rods then this just maybe your best bet. The Zebco 33 Spincast is a two for one deal so your kids can be fishing in no time. My favorite feature is the enclosed reel because this ensures that kids’ fingers stay out of the spinning wheel. There are fewer chances for tangles and rips when you have an enclosed reel.
It speaks for itself but the two for one deal is affordable and of great use, if you need two ultralight fishing poles. Also, the 1-year warranty is reassuring that if anything goes wrong with the pole or the order you will be covered.
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Key Features:
Ideal for casting light lures and plastic bait, this Ugly Stik Ultralight Elite rod has power and agility. These rods are designed to be ultralight and durable. The Ulgy Stik company is always innovating and designing higher quality, lighter weight, and more durable rods. The Ultralight Elite is a result of hours of innovation.
The best feature that this rod offers is the ultra-sensitive technology that allows you to feel every bite and nudge. The body is made of fiberglass and graphite which allows for an indestructible flexible and durable design.
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You may still have some lingering questions about how to find the best ultralight fishing rod. With our complete and comprehensive buying guide, we don’t want you to still feel left in the dark. Below we answer some of the most common questions from those looking to buy their dream ultralight fishing rod that best suits them.
It is important to choose the correct rod length for yourself but it is nothing to get too stressed about. I think that a lot more people get concerned over rod length than just about any other part of the pole.
The rod length really doesn’t make a huge difference until you are a professional. But as a novice, you want to make sure you don’t go too short. I usually suggest that your very first ultralight rod is around 6 and a half inches. You really can’t go wrong with a moderate size like this.
If you are extra tall or like a longer cast, then I would suggest between 7 or 8 inches. There is no need to go over 8 inches for your very first rod. If you are a more serious fisherman, then it can be fun to play around with different rod sizes.
If you are someone that is planning on sticking to offshore fishing like panfish or bluegills, then there isn’t much need to go over 7 feet. If you are planning on buying a rod for your child then go for a smaller rod.
It is exciting when your rod starts to bend along with a catch. I love having my pole bend knowing that I have an amazing catch on the end of my line.
The best ultralight weight rod material that gives great flexibility is fiberglass. Nowadays, most poles are made out of fiberglass. However, some ultralight rods are made of carbon fiber or graphite. These tend to be less flexible and will give less of that bend that we all love. I have some really great rods that are flexible and made of carbon fiber but my most flexible ones are fiberglass.
After lots of ultralight fishing rod reviews, there are some that stick out among the crowd. My favorite pick overall is the G. Loomis Classic Ultralight Rod which is great for fishing trout and panfish. I like the strength and flexibility of the carbon fiber inside and the graphite outside.
If this one seems to be a bit out of your price range then I would go for our best budget choice. Our best budget choice is the Daiwa D-Shock Freshwater Spinning Combo. This affordable rod combines strength and flexibility and won’t break the bank.
If you are looking for a combination of affordability and a premium rod, then I would take a look at the Zebco 33 Spincast Reel and Rod. This duo offers the rod and reel all in one and you get two rods for the price of one.
Picking a rod can be stressful but it is exciting knowing all the new adventures it will allow you to embark on. Make sure that you weigh out all the pros and cons and know which features you value the most. Finding the right rod for you is important for years of fun times fishing.
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