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10 Best Surf Casting Rods 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Okuma RA-S-1102M Rockaway Surf, Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Power
Action
Material

Most important from
708 reviews

Power
Handles well with both 2 oz and 3 oz weights, providing good casting distance and sensitivity.
Action
The rod's tip is super sensitive yet has plenty of backbone, making it suitable for a variety of fish sizes.
Material
Exceeded expectations with its lightweight design and impressive balance, making it great for surf fishing.

The Okuma RA-S-1102M Rockaway Surf rod is a solid choice for those interested in surf-casting, with a length of 11 feet which offers good casting distance. Its medium power makes it versatile for handling a variety of fish species, and the moderate-fast action provides a good balance between sensitivity and strength. Made from composite material, it is durable yet lightweight, weighing 318 grams, making it easy to handle for prolonged periods.

The rod features zirconium inserts, making it compatible with both braid and mono lines, adding to its versatility. The handle, made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate with a split grip type, provides comfort and a secure grip even in wet conditions. The rod comes in a two-piece design, enhancing portability without sacrificing performance, though some may find the butt ferrule connection to be less sensitive than a one-piece rod.

With a 1-year warranty and good customer reviews (4 out of 5 stars from 693 ratings), it appears to be a reliable option. Its best-seller rank might not reflect its true potential due to the competitive nature of the market. This rod is suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers looking for a versatile and reliable surf-casting rod.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Power
Action
Material

Most important from
708 reviews

Power
Handles well with both 2 oz and 3 oz weights, providing good casting distance and sensitivity.
Action
The rod's tip is super sensitive yet has plenty of backbone, making it suitable for a variety of fish sizes.
Material
Exceeded expectations with its lightweight design and impressive balance, making it great for surf fishing.
#3

Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods (Large, Black/Blue/Silver)

Rating
9.7
Length
Power
Action

Most important from
1804 reviews

Length
Excellent casting distance, especially with the 12 ft version paired with a Shimano 8000 series spinning reel.
Power
Handles heavy baits well, making it ideal for targeting larger fish like pikes and muskies.
Action
Sturdy and stiff enough for setting hooks effectively, especially useful for working bucktails.

The Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods are designed to meet the demands of serious surf anglers. One of the standout features is the sensitive and durable graphite composite blanks, which provide the necessary strength to handle heavy baits while still being sensitive enough to detect light bites. This makes the rod both versatile and reliable for various fishing conditions. The aluminum oxide guide inserts and double footed stainless steel guide frames enhance durability and ensure smooth line running, which is essential for long casting distances often required in surf fishing.

The premium cork handle offers a non-slip grip, making it comfortable to use for extended periods, and the stainless hooded reel seat keeps your reel firmly in place even when hauling in big fish. The rod comes in multiple lengths and actions, catering to different casting needs and preferences. However, the two-piece design, while convenient for transport, might not be as sturdy as a one-piece rod for some users.

With a medium-fast action and heavy power, the rod is well-suited for targeting larger fish species from the shoreline. Despite its strengths, some users may find the rod a bit heavy at 14.72 ounces, and its composite material, while durable, may not appeal to those who prefer pure graphite rods. Given its features and specifications, the Okuma Longitude Surf Rod is an excellent choice for surf anglers looking for a high-quality, versatile rod that can handle tough fishing conditions.

Rating
9.7
Length
Power
Action

Most important from
1804 reviews

Length
Excellent casting distance, especially with the 12 ft version paired with a Shimano 8000 series spinning reel.
Power
Handles heavy baits well, making it ideal for targeting larger fish like pikes and muskies.
Action
Sturdy and stiff enough for setting hooks effectively, especially useful for working bucktails.

Buying Guide for the Best Surf Casting Rods

Choosing the right surf-casting rod can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Surf-casting rods are designed to cast bait or lures from the shore into the surf, and they need to be strong enough to handle the powerful fish that inhabit these waters. When selecting a surf-casting rod, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your time fishing to the fullest.
LengthThe length of a surf-casting rod is crucial because it affects casting distance and leverage. Surf-casting rods typically range from 9 to 15 feet. Shorter rods (9-11 feet) are easier to handle and are suitable for smaller fish and shorter casting distances. Medium-length rods (11-13 feet) offer a balance between casting distance and control, making them versatile for various conditions. Longer rods (13-15 feet) provide maximum casting distance and are ideal for reaching deeper waters and targeting larger fish. Choose a length based on your fishing environment and the type of fish you aim to catch.
PowerPower refers to the rod's ability to handle heavy loads and is often categorized as light, medium, or heavy. Light power rods are suitable for smaller fish and lighter baits, offering more sensitivity. Medium power rods are versatile and can handle a wide range of fish sizes and bait weights. Heavy power rods are designed for large fish and heavy baits, providing the strength needed to reel in big catches. Consider the size of the fish you are targeting and the type of bait you will be using when selecting the power of your rod.
ActionAction describes how much and where the rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip, providing quick hook sets and better sensitivity, making them ideal for targeting fast-moving fish. Medium action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance between sensitivity and casting distance, suitable for a variety of fishing situations. Slow action rods bend throughout the entire length, providing maximum flexibility and are best for casting light baits over long distances. Choose the action based on your fishing style and the type of fish you are targeting.
MaterialSurf-casting rods are typically made from graphite, fiberglass, or a composite of both. Graphite rods are lightweight, sensitive, and provide excellent casting distance, making them ideal for detecting subtle bites. Fiberglass rods are more durable and flexible, suitable for handling larger fish and rough conditions. Composite rods offer a balance of sensitivity and durability, making them versatile for various fishing environments. Consider the conditions you will be fishing in and your preference for sensitivity versus durability when choosing the material of your rod.
GuidesGuides are the rings along the rod that direct the fishing line. The number, size, and material of the guides can affect casting performance and durability. More guides generally provide better line control and casting accuracy. High-quality materials like stainless steel or ceramic reduce friction and increase the lifespan of the guides. Choose a rod with guides that match your fishing style and the type of line you will be using to ensure smooth casting and retrieval.
HandleThe handle of a surf-casting rod affects comfort and control. Handles are typically made from cork, EVA foam, or a combination of both. Cork handles are lightweight and provide a good grip, even when wet. EVA foam handles are more durable and comfortable for extended use. Some rods feature longer handles for two-handed casting, which can help achieve greater casting distance. Consider the material and length of the handle based on your comfort preferences and casting style.

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