10 Best Trolling Rods 2025 in the United States

The Ugly Stik Bigwater Conventional Fishing Rod is a 10-foot, two-piece rod designed for extra heavy power and fast action, making it suitable for strong, large fish, especially in deep sea fishing. Constructed with Ugly Tech materials, which generally include a mix of fiberglass and graphite, this rod offers durability and strength while remaining relatively lightweight at 0.74 kilograms. The rod can handle line weights between 40-80 pounds, aligning well with its extra heavy designation for serious fishing contexts.

The Ugly Stik Clear Tip is featured on select models, providing added sensitivity at the tip for better bite detection. The Ugly Tuff Guides are designed to be durable and reduce the likelihood of insert pop-outs, which is essential when dealing with heavy lines and big catches. The inclusion of a Fuji Reel Seat ensures a secure and comfortable placement for your reel, while the durable rubber gimbal, available on select models, provides stability when placed in a rod holder or against your body during tough fights with fish.

The rod's extra heavy power and fast action may not be suitable for small or medium fish, and its size and power might be overkill for casual fishing. Despite these points, for those who target large game fish and need a robust, reliable rod, the Ugly Stik Bigwater is a compelling choice. Its components and construction suggest it is built to withstand tough conditions and provide a reliable tool for dedicated anglers.

The Okuma CP-LT-762M Classic Pro GLT Lake Trolling Rod is a 7-foot, 6-inch rod designed for lake trolling, offering a moderate-fast action and medium power. Made from durable glass fiber with stainless steel components, this rod is built for reliability and quality.

Its stainless steel hooded reel seat with graphite cushion inserts and double foot guides with titanium oxide inserts enhance durability and performance. The EVA butt with a shrink tube makes it easy to remove from rod holders, and the tip-over-butt ferrule connection provides additional strength.

This rod supports a line weight of 10 to 20 pounds, making it versatile for various fishing conditions. Some may find the medium power and moderate-fast action slightly limiting compared to higher-end, more specialized rods. It's a solid choice for both amateur and experienced anglers looking for a dependable trolling rod for lake fishing.

The Shimano Tallus Trolling Standup Saltwater Fishing Rod is designed specifically for trolling, making it a solid choice for anglers targeting powerful saltwater species like Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, and Billfish. At 5'6" in length, it is compact, allowing for ease of handling in the high-tension environment typical of trolling. Its extra heavy power is especially beneficial for fighting large, strong fish. The fast action of the rod provides quick response and sensitivity, ideal for detecting bites and setting the hook effectively.

Constructed with TC4 material, this rod combines a core of T Glass with high modulus graphite, offering a strong yet lightweight build. This composition is particularly designed to pair well with Power Pro lines, enhancing strength without adding unnecessary weight. The rod's guides include AFTCO Roller Stripper and Tip Guides along with Fuji O Guides, which are robust components that help in smoothing out line retrieval and reducing friction, essential for maintaining line integrity under stress.

The aluminum reel seat and gimbal provide sturdy points for securing the reel and stabilizing the rod, respectively. However, at 5 pounds, the rod is on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for those who prioritize lighter gear. Additionally, its single-piece design promotes strength and durability but may be less convenient for transport compared to multi-piece rods.

Given its features and specifications, it is best suited for serious anglers who frequently fish in saltwater and require reliable performance from their gear. Though not the lightest, its balance of strength, responsiveness, and durability makes it a valuable tool in the arsenal of any dedicated saltwater fisherman.