6 Best Catfish Rods In 2021 | Landing on a monster catch effortlessly!

Catching a catfish is a great achievement for every angler given their monster size and fierce fight. Landing one is never a walk in the park without the right gear in place. The catfish are known to be strong, stubborn, and resilient in nature. Casting your rod may sound easy, but if an angler is not ready with the best catfish rods, you might feel its bite but never reel it on. A lot of patient, power, and skills are also needed in order to succeed.

Note that the largest that is on record weighed 646 pounds and measured 9 feet long. Sincerely speaking, if you are to reel in this kind of fish, a sturdy road with much power and fast action is needed. But finding one can be a challenge given the many options available in the market. Picking a pole for the sake of it might land you in a rod that will disappoint in a crucial moment. Just imagine hooking up this monster fish and failing to pull it out as a result of the rod breaking or the line getting cut. You will blame yourself for this! 

In order to avoid such problems ever arising, READ THROUGH THIS GUIDE to get the perfect catfish pole for you. Here we review the top six poles and provide the buyer’s guide for the same, to enable you to make an informed decision. First, let us look at the summary of the products that we are going to look at in this article.

Top 6 Catfish Rods In 2021 (Best Picks)

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In-Depth Review of Top Six Catfish Rods 

The review of each of the six products has been done after thorough research to get only the best catfish poles in the market. The outstanding features of the rods will help you pick one that will match your needs and of course, help every angler to catch catfish without much fight. Thoroughly go through every product and choose one that best describes your fishing style.

01- Ugly Stik Catfish Casting Fishing Rod

This pole uses a ugly construction design, which is well known to be more sturdy and durable under harsh conditions. This is what makes it perfect for catfish angling. It measures 7ft. long that is not too short or extended to provide a balance between casting distance and action needed for a monster catch.  In order to avoid losing sensitivity in joints, this rod comes as one piece which offers superb performance. 

Ugly Stik Catfish pole features medium-heavy action, EVA handles with rubber gimbals, stainless steel guides, and clear tip design to ensure you get perfect and long-lasting services.  The lure rating is 0.5-3 ounces with a line capacity of 15-30lbs. This is quite ideal for catching large species of fish. With moderate action, you are good to embark on catfish angling excursion.

Key Features

  • Ugly Tech construction which is known to be sturdy and durable
  • EVA handle grip for comfortable long-day fishing
  • Medium-heavy power with moderate fast action that is ideal for fighting the catfish
  • Eight stainless steel guides for maximum strength and durability
  • Clear tip design for superior sensitivity 

Specifications

  • Brand: Ugly Stik
  • Model: 1366949
  • Weight: 12.8 ounces
  • Length: 7 ft.
  • Power: Medium-heavy
  • Action: moderate fast
  • Lure Rating: 0.3-3
  • Line rating: 15-30lbs
  • Guides: 8 stainless steel
  • Construction: Ugly Tech

For more information and current pricing, click here.

02- LurEra Catfish Casting Rod

LurEra catfish poles combine the power of strength and sensitivity in catching large species. Constructed using sturdy 30T carbon fiber blanks, you are certain of durable services. The reel seats are also strong to match up with the poles to provide lightweight and long-lasting products. The stainless steel inserts are non-corrosive, and they have ceramic pull-outs that help in reducing friction and ensuring the line is well protected. 

Never for a moment will catfish detect that a trap is being set. This is because the EVA handle is camouflaged with a high-density rubberwood base. The length is 7 feet coming as a 2-piece rod for easy carrying and storage. Get it an affordable price and enjoy the breakthrough you get in your catfish angling expedition. 

Key Features

  • 30T crab on fiber construction that is strong and highly sensitive
  • High-strength lightweight reel seats which keep the connection between the poles and the spool firm and secure
  • Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts for line protection and smooth casting
  • Camouflaged EVA handle for undetectable and comfortable fishing 

Specifications

  • Brand: LurEra
  • Weight: 0.58lbs
  • Length: 7 feet
  • Power: Heavy 
  • Action: Fast
  • Guides: 5+1
  • Pieces: 2
  • Lure weight: 1-4oz.
  • Line weight: 50-80lbs

For more information and current prices, click on this link.

03- KastKing KatTech Catfish Rods

KastKing KatTech poles are designed for angling competition targeting monster fish. The strength and versatility are as a result of composite construction constituting s-glass and 24T graphite. This makes it powerful and lightweight for daily angling needs. Fuji twin foot guides are used for the purpose of pulling massive catch without failing and are tailor-made for use with weightier braids.  No loose connection between the rods and the reels since the seats are also made of sturdy Fuji materials.  

The non-slip custom made rubber cork handles are comfortable to hold and are easy to detach from the rod while offering long-lasting services.  In order to ensure you have enough leverage to reel in the catch, the handle has a large foregrip with oversized fighting butt. Get this pole and detect the slightest bite with a bright chartreuse strike tip. 

Key Features

  • Composite construction of 24T graphite and s-glass for strength and versatility
  • Fuji twin foot guides with SIC rings to handle heavy loads with heavy braids
  • Fuji reels seats for robust connection of between the reels and the rods keeping the spools firmly in place even in harsh fishing conditions
  • Tailored rubber cork handle that can be detached easily from the rod and is comfortable to handle
  • Chartreuse strike tip that enhances early and subtle bites

Specifications

  • Brand: KastKing
  • Length: 8 feet
  • Power: Heavy
  • Action: Fast
  • Pieces: 2
  • Construction: composite constituting 24T graphite with S-glass

For more information and current prices, click on this link.

04- Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rods

Battle series rod from Okuma makes the perfect pole for catching different sizes of catfish. They are versatile as a result of its length, which is long enough for extended catch targeting big catch. Though storing may be a challenge, it is a small sacrifice to make for a powerful rod. 

Another outstanding feature is E-glass construction, which makes the rod highly-sensitive and long-lasting. Coupled with the length, you can easily land on a monster fish. Additionally, the handles are made of EVA foam, which makes holding comfortable with added strength. Buy this rod and use it on a wide range of line ratings and catch any size of catfish on your next trip.

Key Features

  • EVA foam handles which are comfortable and long-lasting
  • E-glass construction which gives it much strength, sensitivity, and durability
  • Additionally long for enough leverage to reel in a big catch
  • Can handle wide-range of line ratings of 15-60 pounds making it versatile
  • Durable, heavy-duty stainless steel guides

Specifications

  • Brand: Okuma
  • Model: 3823524-P
  • Line weight: 15-60 pounds
  • Pieces: 2 
  • Casting weight: 1-8 ounces
  • Construction: E-glass

For more information and current prices, click here.

05- Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

This rod is well built for avid anglers targeting monster catfish. It has pounding power and performance as a result of its composite construction and carbon matrix hybrid drag system. The Abu Garcia poles are heavy duty and come with 7ft. length, stainless steel guides, and comfortable EVA handles. The stainless steel bearings and 4-pin centrifugal brake further make casting smooth with efficient control.  The additional remarkable features include a synchronized level wind system and compact bent handle plus drag star. Buy one and get ready for your next catfish angling competition or just fish for fun.

Key Features

  • Two stainless ball bearing system for smooth casting
  • Lightweight composite construction for strength, power, and versatility
  • 4-pin centrifugal system brake for remarkably accurate cast
  • Carbon matrix drag system for smooth and reliable drag
  • High-density eve compact bent handles for comfort and durability

Specifications

  • Brand: Abu Garcia
  • Model: AMBCC-6500/701MH
  • Length: 7ft.
  • Power: Medium-heavy
  • Construction: Composite 

For more information and current prices, click on this link.

06- Championship Chop Stick Catfishing Rod 

This is a perfect rod designed for catching catfish without breaking the bank.  They are ideal for anglers who are tired of replacing low-quality rods and are using trolling, casting, drifting, or suspend fishing techniques. They come at an affordable price with medium-heavy power and moderate-fast action, providing enough strength and sensitivity to detect subtle nibbles from the catfish.   

Additionally, it features 7ft 6 inches length, 2-piece, and rugged construction to ensure you fight monster fish effortlessly. Dual-footed eight stainless guides are low-profile to drag heavy load and withstand thick braided lines. Never will you get tired using this special rod as a result of EVA foam handles with hard rubber butt. With Chop Stick rod, you will not look further!

Key Features

  • Rugged construction which withstands fierce fight from catfish
  • 2-piece 7ft.  6 inches long to make storage and transport easy
  • Double-footed eight stainless steel for heavy load and long-lasting services
  • EVA foam handle that is comfortable and durable
  • Glossy fiberglass finish for easy cleaning

Specifications

  • Brand: Catfish Sumo
  • Length: 7ft 6 inches
  • Power: Medium-heavy
  • Action: Moderate-fast 
  • Line rating: 10-50lbs
  • Lure weight: 1-4oz. 

For more information and current prices, click on this Link.

What to Consider When Buying the Best Catfish Rods

In order to get the best catfish rids, there are crucial features that you need to consider. This will be discussed below to help you make informed decisions.

  • Length

Longer lengths are suitable for catching catfish, given their big sizes. However, the exact measurement will depend on the size of the catch you are targeting. Generally, 7-9 feet rod makes the best rods for catfish fishing. However, one can choose longer than 9 feet if they want to cast further and catch bigger fish. Though, you should be aware that very long lengths can result in weaker rods when it comes to their strength and can, therefore, break easily.  

  • Power 

Catfish require stronger rods that do not flex easily to avoid breakage. This, therefore, requires poles with medium, medium-heavy, or substantial power. For a more versatile pole, go for medium-heavy that can catch both small and occasionally more significant catch. Just remember, the control will determine whether you will be able to reel in hooked up catfish.

  • Material

There are different materials that can be used in pole construction. The most common are the graphite, fiberglass, and mixture of the two. Fiberglass is known to be a long-lasting and affordable option. It is the material that features in most poles but can also be mixed with graphite to form a composite fabric. Keep in mind that it can be cumbersome to carry fiberglass poles around as they are known to be heavyweight.

Conversely, graphite is lightweight and robust with high sensitivity. They are the perfect choice, though come highly-priced.  The composite gives much versatility as it combines both qualities of fiberglass and graphite material. If you can afford, go for these blended poles as they are known to perform best, but they are costly. However, you can work with fiberglass rod if you need affordable products.

  • Handle

Material and length are the two aspects to look at concerning handle. When it comes to fabric, you will find cork or EVA handles in most cases. Cork is known to be stylish and comfortable with reasonably long-lasting services. The EVA handles, on the other hand, may not be suitable to the high but will give you a durable and comfortable hold. 

The length should be reasonable to give you enough leverage for reeling in a bigger catch. The more extended grip allows you to use both hands and provides much control for fight catfish. Always go for the longer lengths when given two options holding other factors constant.

  • Fishing style

You can use two different methods to catch the catfish; spinning and casting. The two techniques give you high performance, but each has its own unique features. The catfish spinning rid is suitable for novice anglers who have not yet horn enough skills to cast. They are lightweight and can easily be used to catch the small size of catfish as they do not put fierce fights.

On the other hand, catfish casting rods are suitable for experienced angles that have sufficient knowledge, skill, and techniques to use them. They tend to have a challenging learning curve compared to spinning rods. They also tend to be weightier and can, therefore, land and fight bigger fish. Always remember to match the rod with the correct reel for exceptional performance. 

  • Line Rating 

The attached to the rid is going to have an effect on the size of fish to catch. Advanced tensile sturdy lines are suitable for bigger fish though it may not be sensitive enough for a small catch. Always check the line ratings of the pole to ensure it can handle that string that you purpose to use. If you want a more versatile pole, buy those that can handle a range of line weights.

  • Lure Weight

The catfish are known to stay at the bottom of the sea commonly. This means that you should use lures that are heavy enough to get to your anticipated water depth. Since some are found on shallow depths, you will need first to determine how deep you will be fishing in order to decide on lure weight. Check the lure rating of the pole to be sure they can handle the projected load.

  • Warranty

The warranty is very crucial, given the fragile nature of the rods. Check for repair and replacement warranty, which, to some extent, shows confidence in the quality of the product. Those that meet the other features and come with long-period contracts should be prioritized.

FAQs

Q: How do I set up my rod?

In order to start casting, you need to set up your rod correctly. Though it is not so challenging, you need to follow the following steps keenly:

Choose a reel- The first thing to do is to select the reel that matches the rod. But, if you are first time buyers, consider combi products that come with the spool to avoid mismatch. While some rods use casting reels, others use spinning reels or any. Choose according to which suits your poles.

Choose your line- A rod cannot work without a rope. Check the line ratings of the pole to ensure it matches with what you buy. 

Attach the line to the reel- Once the line is chosen, it should be attached to the spindle. This is done by tying a simple knot around the spool, and thereafter the line should be reeled in slowly. Keep it sturdy, and avoid any tangles to ensure the pole smoothly entangles when casting.

Pass the lines through the O-rings- once the streaks have been reeled in fully, feed the fishing rope through the O-rings. Ensure the line passes through all the rings to avoid challenges that may come up when fishing. 

Attach the tackle- Lastly; attach the necessary gears to the rod. This may include hooks for bait, weights, or artificial lures. This should be done tightly to avoid losing it while fishing. Once all these steps are through, you will be ready to go out prepared to catch the catfish.

Q: Can I use the catfish rod for hunting for other species?

The catfish poles can be used to catch other large size fish species. This may include muskellunge, pike and smallmouth or largemouth bass. This is because these species of fish can grow big enough to require powerful rod just like those of the catfish. The rod also needs to have long length, sturdy with high performance and made from quality materials.

Featured of the Top-Rated Catfish Rods In 2020

# Product Name  Features
1 Ugly Stik Catfish Casting Fishing Rod
Ugly tech construction
Eva handles with rubber gimbals
8 stainless steel  guides
Medium-heavy power
Moderate fast action 7 feet long
2 LurEra Catfish Casting Rod   Carbon fiber construction
Camouflaged EVA handle
Strong reel seats
Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts
2-piece 7 feet long
Heavy power Fast action
3 KastKing KatTech Catfish Rods
Graphite & s-glass composite construction
Fuji reel guides with SIC rings
Custom rubber cork handles with large foregrip
Fuji reel seats
Chartreuse strike tip which detects the slightest bite
4 Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rods Powerful and durable
E-glass blanks
Dual foot welded stainless steel guides
EVA handles
High-density stainless steel hook keeper
Cork rear grip
5 Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod and Reel Combo 2 stainless ball bearing 
Carbon matrix drag system
4-pin centrifugal brakes
Composite blank construction 
6 Championship Chop Stick Catfishing Rod 
Rugged construction
2-piece
Double-footed eight stainless steel guides
EVA foam handles
Glossy fiberglass finishing 

Final Word

Never will you experience challenges catching catfish once you buy the best fishing rod. It basically makes work seamlessly smooth, and for a moment, you might forget that catfish is monster size, which presents a fierce fight. But, in order to buy the best catfish rod that gives high performance, strength, and durability, you need to follow the guidelines provided above. 

The rod should belong, has a sturdy construction, robust with significant action, comfortable handles, and appropriate line and lure ratings. Matching all these features can be an uphill task that calls for thorough research on fishing gears. However, with this article, your work has been made easier as picking any of the rods reviewed will help you land on the monster fish effortlessly. You only need to choose one that matches your fishing style and needs. Once you have the perfect rod at hand, go out and have an experience like no other hunting for a catfish!  

Reference Links

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API