10 Best Portable Backpacking Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The Ugly Stik 5’ GX2 Travel Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is designed with portability in mind, making it an excellent choice for backpackers who enjoy fishing. Its 5-foot, 3-piece design is compact and easy to carry, fitting well into travel bags. Weighing just 0.86 kilograms, it’s lightweight enough for those long treks. The rod's Ugly Tech construction combines graphite and fiberglass to deliver a balance of strength and sensitivity, which is great for detecting bites while ensuring durability during use.

User-friendly features, like the multi-stop anti-reverse system and EVA handle, enhance the fishing experience, ensuring comfort and control while reeling in fish. The combo includes a size 25 reel with a smooth 4-ball bearing system, providing effective operation. Additionally, it has a decent line rating of 4-10 lbs, making it suitable for various target species, particularly bass.

While the 5-foot length is practical for backpacking, it may not be ideal for all fishing situations, especially if you're looking to cast longer distances. Its light power might limit the rod's effectiveness against larger fish. Furthermore, while the Ugly Stik brand is known for durability, some might prefer a more specialized rod for specific fishing techniques or larger species.

The PLUSINNO Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is designed for novice anglers looking for a complete fishing kit that emphasizes portability and ease of use. With a rod length of 8.86 feet and a medium power rating, it's well-suited for catching a variety of species, particularly bass. The combination of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass makes the rod both durable and flexible, providing good sensitivity during fishing. Its telescopic design is a standout feature, allowing for easy storage and transport, making it perfect for backpacking trips.

One of the major strengths of this product is the all-inclusive nature of the kit. It comes with a fishing rod, reel, fishing line, lures, hooks, and a convenient carrier bag, meaning beginners won’t need to make additional purchases to get started. The stainless steel reel seats resist corrosion, which is beneficial for saltwater fishing. Additionally, the EVA fore grip ensures comfort during use.

There are some areas where the PLUSINNO combo might fall short. While the kit is designed for beginners and includes essential accessories, more experienced anglers might find the rod's medium power and action limiting, especially if they prefer targeting larger species or using specialized techniques. The absence of a fishing rod holder may also be a drawback for some users, as it requires an extra purchase. In terms of weight, at 267 grams, the rod is relatively light, contributing to its portability. Yet, the combination kit weighs about 1.14 kilograms in total, which could be slightly heavy for extended hikes.

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos stands out as a solid choice for travelers and hobbyists seeking a portable fishing solution. With its 1.8-meter length, it provides a good balance for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it versatile for various fishing environments. The rod is made from a mix of high-density carbon fiber and fiberglass, which makes it both hard and durable while maintaining a lightweight profile at just 1.21 pounds. This is a key strength for backpacking anglers who need to keep their gear light and manageable.

The telescopic design enhances portability, allowing it to easily fit into a car trunk or backpack, ideal for those on the move. The included accessories, such as the fishing reel, lures, line, and a carrier bag, make it a convenient all-in-one package, especially beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a ready-to-go setup.

On the performance side, the fishing reel features 13 + 1 corrosion-resistant ball bearings and a 5.5:1 gear ratio, ensuring smooth operation and a pleasant fishing experience. The reel's aluminum handle and spool design add to its durability and comfort during use. There are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users might find the rod’s action less responsive compared to higher-end models, particularly when targeting larger fish. Additionally, while the accessories included are beneficial, they may not meet the expectations of more experienced anglers who prefer specific brands or types of fishing lures and lines.

Despite these minor concerns, the Sougayilang Fishing Rod Combos delivers good value for its price, making it a noteworthy option for casual anglers and backpackers looking to enjoy fishing without the burden of heavy gear.