10 Best Surf Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The PENN Battle IV 8-foot spinning rod and reel combo is designed for surf fishing enthusiasts who want a durable and powerful setup to handle medium-heavy saltwater species like redfish. Its 8-foot length provides good casting distance and control along the shoreline. The rod is made from a graphite composite, which strikes a nice balance between lightweight and strength, helping reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions. It features six PENN Dura-Guides that resist corrosion and wear in both fresh and saltwater environments, ensuring smooth line flow. The combo's medium-heavy power rating means it can manage larger fish without feeling too stiff or too flexible.

The reel complements the rod well, boasting a strong full metal body, CNC gears for smooth operation, and an HT-100 drag system that handles up to 25 pounds of pressure, which is useful when reeling in strong fighters. With a gear ratio of 5.6:1, it offers a decent line retrieval speed without sacrificing control. The combo weighs around 5 pounds, which is reasonable for surf fishing gear, but could be slightly heavy for anglers who prefer ultra-light setups. The two-piece rod design makes transportation easier but may slightly reduce sensitivity compared to one-piece rods.

This combo is well-built to last and perform in tough saltwater conditions and is best suited for anglers targeting medium to large species rather than beginners or those after ultra-light finesse fishing. Customer reviews generally praise its durability and power, though some mention the weight and feel may take a little getting used to. It proves to be a solid, reliable choice for anglers wanting a rugged surf fishing rod and reel combo that can handle big fish and rough conditions without breaking the bank.

The PENN 9’ Pursuit IV fishing rod and reel combo is designed with surf fishing in mind, offering a solid balance of length, power, and durability. At 9 feet long, the rod is well-suited for casting beyond shore breaks, which is important for surf fishing. Its medium-heavy power and moderate fast action mean it can handle larger fish and heavier lines, giving you control and strength without being too stiff or tiring to use.

The rod is made from a graphite composite, which keeps it both lightweight and sensitive, helping you feel bites while still being durable enough for saltwater conditions. The split EVA handle comfortably fits both right- and left-handed anglers and allows for a good grip even when wet. The reel features a size 6000 with a smooth 5.6:1 gear ratio and solid drag system, making it easier to reel in fish smoothly. The six durable PENN Dura-Guides reduce line wear and work well with both braided and monofilament lines.

The rod may feel a bit on the heavier side at nearly 1 kilogram, which could cause fatigue on long fishing days. Also, while the combo is robust, it is positioned more for intermediate anglers rather than absolute beginners or pros needing ultra-specialized gear. This combo serves as a dependable, versatile choice for anglers looking to get reliable distance and strength in their surf fishing without breaking the bank.

The PENN Spinfisher VII combo pairs a 10-foot, two-piece spinning rod with a 6500 size reel, making it a strong choice for surf fishing enthusiasts targeting larger species like salmon. Its heavy power rod and moderate-fast action provide good control and strength to handle heavy lines and bigger fish in rough surf conditions. Made from durable composite material, the rod offers solid break resistance without being too heavy to cast comfortably. The handle and guides are designed to withstand stress, with six durable Dura-Guides helping reduce line wear.

The reel features a sealed IPX5 design to resist saltwater spray and sand intrusion, which is critical for surf fishing. The CNC-cut brass main gear and six sealed stainless steel bearings ensure smooth retrieves and reliable performance. It has a max drag of 30 pounds, suitable for fighting strong fish, and a decent line capacity that fits the 15-30lb line rating. With a gear ratio of 5.6:1, it offers a balanced retrieval speed, good for various lures in the 1-5 oz range.

While the rod’s length and power suit surf fishing well, the two-piece design might slightly reduce sensitivity compared to one-piece rods. The combo weighs over a kilogram, which could cause fatigue during extended sessions. Some users report a moderate learning curve to maximize the reel’s features. This combo is a durable, reliable setup for saltwater surf fishing, especially for those targeting medium to heavy fish species. Beginners might find its features a bit advanced, but intermediate users will appreciate the robust build and smooth operation.