While surf fishing is popular, it is tricky to do it right, especially using the wrong rod. Surf fishing rods should be long, strong, and sensitive enough to set your hook behind the breakers and pull out some monster fish. If surf fishing interests you but you’re unsure where to start, we’ve got you covered. Below we examine the best surf fishing rods that’ll improve your fishing success.
The best surf fishing rods are:
- St. Croix Avid Series Surf Casting Rod, VSC – Best overall
- PENN 10’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Casting Rod – Best St Croix Avid alternative
- Okuma Celilo Graphite Salmon/Steelhead Spinning Rods – Best light-tackle surf rod
- Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod – Best mid-range spinning rod
- Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod – Best budget spinning rod
- Tsunami Airwave Surf Rod
- St Croix Legend Surf Spinning
- BerryPro Surf Spinning
- Penn Battle III Spinning Reel And Fishing Rod Combo
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The best overall  | The best St Croix Avid alternative  | Best light-tackle surf rod  | Best mid-range spinning rod  | Best budget spinning rod  |  |  |  |  | |
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th |
| Rating /5 | |||||||||
| Durability (quality) | 4.9/5 | 5/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.2/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Length: weight | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Power: action (sensitivity) | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 | 4..6/5 |
| Comfort | 5/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Affordability (value for money) | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.4/5 | 3.45/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Review | The St Croix Avid Series surf casting rod is our overall best baitcasting rod for surf fishing. | Although PENN rods are not as well established as St Croix, the PENN 10’ Battalion II is an excellent example of what a surf casting rod should be. | If you're looking to fish croaker, corbina, or surfperch with Carolina rigs, the Okuma Celilo spinning rod is the fishing pole for you. | The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Bigwater spinning rod is a fantastic mid-range spinning pole. | Fiblink surf spinning fishing rods are great for beginners and those trying to break into surf fishing without large budgets. | If the St Croix Avid is out of your budget, but if you want a good quality spinning rod, the Tsunami Airwave surf rod might be the best option. | The St Croix Legend surf rod is an excellent spinning rod that improves on the aesthetics of the St Croix avid; however, thanks to its significantly higher price (the highest on this list), it's low down on the ratings. | The BerryPro surf spinning rod comes in various sizes (9’ to 13’). Most anglers prefer the 11’ (or 13’) rods as they provide a suitable length rod for casting behind the breakers, particularly if you’re interested in catching leopard sharks. | The Penn Battle spinning reel and rod combo is an excellent package deal for those who want to try surf fishing but are unsure where to start. |
St. Croix Avid Series Surf Casting Rod, VSC
Pros
- 15-year warranty.
- Great quality materials and manufacturing.
- Lightweight, sensitive, and strong.
Cons
- Two-piece fishing rods.
- These are not budget-friendly fishing rods (expensive).
- Less aesthetically appealing than the Legend.
- These rods work with baitcasting reels, not spinning reels.
The St Croix Avid Series surf casting rod is our overall best baitcasting rod for surf fishing.
Thanks to the high-modulus SCIII carbon (graphite) blanks, these rods are immensely sensitive yet retain their strength. Although two-piece, these rods are as sensitive and durable as single-piece blanks. They also feature a cork handle for comfort and better sensitivity.
Further improving durability, these rods feature Fuji® K-Series KW tangle-free guides with Alconite® rings and Fuji® DPS Deluxe reel seat, reducing the overall weight. These rods are double-coated in resin, enhancing durability without compromising performance.
In the “sweet spot” length range (10′, 11′, or 12″ models), they provide anglers with a suitable platform for maximum casting distances. These large rods are a fantastic weight at around 11 oz. While they excel at bait casting, the St Croix Avids cannot accommodate spinning reels.
They have excellent handling, coming in medium, medium-heavy, and heavy power ranges, with a fast to moderate action, providing anglers with a sensitive rod with enough backbone to reel in larger fish.
The Avid series rods accommodate various line weights (10 to 60 lb.) and lure weights (1 to 16 oz).
PENN 10’ Battalion II Surf Conventional Casting Rod
Pros
- Well-priced rods (moderately expensive).
- Well-made with good quality materials.
- Lightweight and sensitive, yet strong.
Cons
- These rods are also two-piece, reducing some of the durability and sensitivity.
- The handles are of rubber shrink tubes, which may become slippery over time.
- Limited to baitcasting tackle (no spinning).
- Slightly heavier than graphite rods.
Although PENN rods are not as well established as St Croix, the PENN 10’ Battalion II is an excellent example of what a surf casting rod should be.
These blanks are constructed from a composite material (a combination of carbon fiber and fiberglass), resulting in a strong/durable rod with great sensitivity. Their rubber shrink tube handle provides a comfortable grip and is almost as sensitive as cork.
However, it may become slippery when wet (especially with wear over time). While this model comes in several lengths (10′ to 12′), the 10′ is rated the best for beach fishing. It can accommodate 12 to 20 lbs. lines and weighs 13 oz.
These rods are rated medium power, and moderate-fast action, improving their sensitivity but reducing their overall strength.
These rods are slightly heavier and less sensitive than the St Croix; however, they are equally strong (thanks to the fiberglass). Additional features improving durability and handling include Fuji alconite guides and a Fuji graphite reel seat (which helps lighten the rod).
Some anglers may not enjoy the stiffness of this rod for casting.
Okuma Celilo Graphite Salmon/Steelhead Spinning Rods
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Light and sensitive.
- Portable.
- Great for fishing lighter rigs.
Cons
- These rods are great for lighter rigs but won’t cast as far nor handle larger fish.
- Not as great quality materials as the St Croix or Penn rods.
- Two-piece construction.
If you’re looking to fish croaker, corbina, or surfperch with Carolina rigs, the Okuma Celilo spinning rod is the fishing pole for you.
While there are several lengths, most angles aim for the 8’ rods for surf fishing light tackle. These rods have a medium power rating and are moderate-fast action.
The power, coupled with the graphite blanks, means that these rods are light and sensitive, allowing you to feel subtle bites. While they don’t have the same durability as composite blanks, they have more than enough backbone for the size fish you’d expect to catch on 8 to 17 lbs. line and ¼ to ⅝ oz lures.
Unfortunately, there are some quality issues with these rods, like the aluminum oxide guides, which are not as durable as Fuji guides, and the stainless-steel reel seat, which adds a bit of extra weight.
However, the stainless-steel hook keeper is a convenient touch, and the cork handle improves sensitivity.
Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Fishing Rod
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- A strong rod that supports larger fish catching, thanks to the composite material.
- Portable.
- 7-year warranty.
Cons
- Occasionally the clear tip breaks/reduces durability.
- Two-piece construction reduces sensitivity and often durability.
- These rods are heavy for their lengths.
The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Bigwater spinning rod is a fantastic mid-range spinning pole.
Constructed from composite material, the Ugly Stik has a wonderful amount of bend while remaining rigid enough to be sensitive. These rods were designed to cast heavy lures as far as possible and to endure tough fights from large fish.
Thanks to the EVA foam handles, these rods transfer bite vibrations well (although not as well as cork handles).
However, these rods are two-piece, which often reduces sensitivity and durability. They also use stainless steel guides, further increasing rod weight.
These rods come in 8′ to 12′ lengths and weigh around 11 oz (upwards). They have a range of power levels from medium to heavy, and a moderate fast action, making them ideal for surf conditions that pull and push on the line and larger fish who put up a fight.
These rods are rated to use lines that weigh between 12 and 40 lbs. (model dependent), allowing you to cast heavier lures/bait (1 to 8 oz).
Fiblink Surf Spinning Fishing Rod
Pros
- Affordable.
- Good range of lengths.
- Sensitive, lightweight, and strong.
- Portable (two or four-piece).
Cons
- They don’t cast as far as bait caster lines.
- Not as durable as St Croix rods (some inferior components).
- Not as flexible as fiberglass/composite rods.
- Two-piece rods.
Fiblink surf spinning fishing rods are great for beginners and those trying to break into surf fishing without large budgets.
Fiblink surf rods are constructed from carbon fiber and are immaculately sensitive, light, and strong. These rods are perfect for spinning and related techniques thanks to their sensitivity. However, graphite rods are less adept at managing larger fish than composite blanks.
These two-piece rods have a plastic reel seat, which may hamper sensitivity and reduce durability.
Unfortunately, carbon fiber may snap under pressure, while composite has more bend. Further, these rods use stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts, a slightly heavier material. Their handles are rubber-shrink tubing, which may become slippery when wet.
These rods come in lengths of 9′ to 15′ and weigh 14 to 24 oz. Their moderate-fast action and medium-heavy to heavy power ratings improve the spinning experience (particularly for catching smaller fish that may not bite as hard).
Tsunami Airwave Surf Rod
Pros
- More affordable than St Croix.
- Their guides cater to braids.
- EVA handles and Fuji alconite reel seats.
Cons
- Although cheaper than the St Croix, these are moderately expensive fishing rods.
- Two-piece construction.
- Not as sensitive as St Croix.
If the St Croix Avid is out of your budget, but if you want a good quality spinning rod, the Tsunami Airwave surf rod might be the best option.
Although these rods come in various lengths, many anglers prefer the 11′ rod for surf spinning. They accommodate 20 to 40 lbs. line and lures between 3 and 5 oz.
These carbon fiber rods lean towards sensitivity and lightweight rods. High-pressure techniques used in manufacturing improve durability. Although not terrible, the aluminum oxide guides are heavier than Alconite.
However, their Fuji alconite reel seats and EVA handles are a great addition, providing comfort and strength.
Tsunami Airwaves have a fast action, which, although it improves the sensitivity, may be less than ideal in a surf environment, particularly if there are strong currents/winds.
Unfortunately, these rods are two-piece constructions, often reducing sensitivity and compromising durability. Their medium-heavy to extra-heavy power rating makes up for the faster action, providing a stronger backbone.
St Croix Legend Surf Spinning
Pros
- Incredibly light.
- Fantastic power-to-sensitivity ratio.
- 15-year warranty.
Cons
- Very expensive.
- Graphite rods are often not as durable as composite.
- Two-piece construction.
The St Croix Legend surf rod is an excellent spinning rod that improves on the aesthetics of the St Croix avid; however, thanks to its significantly higher price (the highest on this list), it’s low down on the ratings.
Anglers who want a well-made, light, sensitive rod and have the budget for it will enjoy the range and capacity these rods provide.
Many love the 11′ medium-heavy rod with its moderate fast action for spinning because these rods are sensitive enough to feel delicate bites while possessing enough backbone to hoist your line past the breakers.
They accommodate 15 to 40 lbs. line and 3 to 8 oz lures/bait, making them ideal for distance casting.
The graphite blank is rendered more durable thanks to the two-coat resin, while Fuji K-Series KW tangle-free surf guides (with titanium frames) improve handling and durability. The neoprene handle and Fuji reel seat are also excellent additions to these rods.
BerryPro Surf Spinning
Pros
- Affordable.
- Great for unique species fishing.
- Portable.
Cons
- Unfortunately, quality control is not always great/materials used are not always great.
- Carbon fiber rods are often not as durable as composite.
- Two (or four) piece construction reduces sensitivity and durability.
The BerryPro surf spinning rod comes in various sizes (9’ to 13’). Most anglers prefer the 11’ (or 13’) rods as they provide a suitable length rod for casting behind the breakers, particularly if you’re interested in catching leopard sharks.
These IM7 X carbon fiber rods are sufficiently light; however, they are often not as durable as composite rods (or other better-quality graphite rods). However, graphite is more sensitive, meaning you’ll pick up on subtle bites.
Although these rods have stainless steel guides lined with ceramic, they are slightly heavier than Fuji guides. The EVA grips with rubber shrink tubing are comfortable (if not slippery when wet). Many anglers feel that the handle is slightly too long, making handling awkward.
The BerryPro rods come in casting or spinning varieties, catering to your preferences. The 11′ rod has a heavy power rating with fast action, making it ideal for spinning in calm to moderate conditions.
The most significant draw of these rods is their price. They are budget-friendly rods, so anyone who wants to break into surf fishing but doesn’t have the budget for a “high-end” rod will appreciate what the BerryPro offers.
Penn Battle III Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
Pros
- Convenient and practical set.
- Composite blanks improve durability.
- Portable.
Cons
- Moderately expensive.
- The rod is heavier than some competitors.
- Restricted in reel selection.
The Penn Battle spinning reel and rod combo is an excellent package deal for those who want to try surf fishing but are unsure where to start.
Ranging between 6’ and 10’, these rods are made from composite material, significantly enhancing their durability while maintaining a good degree of sensitivity. However, the rod is significantly heavier than carbon fiber rods, and the stainless-steel guides don’t help reduce the weight.
The reel is fantastic, and the rod casts well. The 10′ rod has an ideal moderate-fast action, and heavy power rating, making it a fantastic rod for pulling out larger fish and casting heavier lures (and line) further.
Although new anglers will appreciate the convenience, experienced anglers may be limited by the 10’ maximum height.
Unfortunately, these rods do not accommodate smaller reels, so you won’t be able to downsize. They also use Winn Grips on the handle, which is slightly less optimal in the comfort department.
What Makes The Perfect Surf Fishing Rod
Although personal preference plays a fundamental role in rod selection, there are some fundamental characteristics of a great surf rod.
Surf Fishing Rods Must Be Durable
Surf fishing puts significant stress on your gear, particularly your rod. Without a heavy line (and sinker), wave and wind action create havoc with your hook. So, it would be best if you had a strong rod to accommodate heavy gear.
Ugly Stik rods are well-known to be some of the toughest, most durable rods (some may even say “unbreakable”). With its composite blanks and heavy power ratings, the Ugly Stik Bigwater surf rod is the most durable rod on the list.
The St Croix Legend is the most durable of the graphite rods.
A rod’s durability also relates to the guides, real seats, and other components.
Composite Vs. Graphite Blanks
Although with modern technology, graphite, and composite rods are comparable in performance, carbon fiber (graphite) rods are usually far more sensitive.
They are usually stronger (in the same thickness as the composite rods) but become stiffer as you increase the density (thickness). Many graphite rods experience an issue: they may snap under excess weight/force.
Composite rods (fiberglass and graphite mixtures) are strong, supple, and (generally) less expensive. While less sensitive than graphite, composite rods are more “forgiving” in their bend, allowing you to target larger fish.
The difference is not as great when bait casting. However, when spinning or jigging, you’ll appreciate the sensitivity afforded by a graphite rod.
Fuji Alconite Guides
Although Titanium guides are more durable, most anglers prefer the Fuji alconite type.
They are equally strong, protect your line, and are lighter than the titanium guides, reducing the rod’s cumulative weight and improving performance. They also excel in distributing line tension across the rod.
Fuji Reel Seats
Much like the guides, many anglers swear by Fuji reel seats. They are strong enough to secure the heaviest reels while significantly lighter than stainless reel seats.
Surf Fishing Rods Must Be Functional
While a durable rod is essential, a surf fishing rod must be easy to use, versatile, and comfortable. For most forms of surf fishing, you’ll need to cast as far as possible, so a rod that allows you to set your hook deep in the surf is ideal.
You’ll want a longer rod to get behind the waves, so we recommend aiming for a rod 6 to 15 ft. Although 8 ft rods are ideal for clam water, especially when you’d like to jig, 10 to 12 ft is the sweet spot for most surf techniques.
Most anglers prefer medium-heavy power and moderate-fast to fast-action rods as the sweet spot for surf fishing.
While surf (ocean) fishing, you’ll compete with strong currents, wind and wave actions, and the substrate. These variables push and pull your line significantly, so you’ll want a sensitive rod yet robust enough to resist all of the vibrations you’ll experience.
A fast-action rod gives you more than enough sensitivity for fish with subtle bites while not moving as quickly as an ultra-fast action (which may provide inaccurate readings).
Heavier rods provide you with enough “backbone” to cast heavier tackle further while increasing the rod’s capacity to catch larger fish.
However, the best surf fishing rod is the one that enables (and enhances) your preferred style of fishing.
Techniques Used In Surf Fishing
The St Croix Avid and Legend are the top spinning and baitcasting rods.
While spinning and baitcasting are the two primary surf fishing techniques, there are numerous techniques when surf fishing that employs different types of bait/lures, lines, and rods.
These techniques include:
- Surf fishing with a Carolina rig. The Okuma Celio excels in light tackle fishing and supports a Carolina rig. Faster actions and lighter powers improve your reaction time while targeting smaller fish.
- Surf fishing while jigging and using feather rigs (like bucktail and marabou jigs) are finesse-related techniques that benefit from sensitive, light rods. The St Croix Avid is ideal, while the Okuma Celio is another great option.
- Surf fishing with lures is influenced by the type of fish you’re targeting. Ideally, a longer rod (around 10’) allows you to cast further, while a medium-heavy to heavy rod improves the size of fish you can target.
Spinning or baitcasting rods are great for lures, including the Penn Battalion and the Ugly Stik Bigwater.
Surf Fishing Rods Must Be Affordable
Your available budget plays one of the most significant roles in determining which rod is best for you. While the St Croix rods are nice, their price is not.
If you’d like to break into surf fishing but don’t have the funds for a top-tier pole, the Fiblink surf spinning rod is an affordable option.
Conclusion
The best rod overall for surf fishing is the St Croix Avid series surf caster. These rods are a fantastic blend of power and sensitivity. However, they are quite steep in price, so the Fiblink surf spinning rod will help your pocket if budget is an issue.