7 Best Trolling Rods – Reviews and Buying Guide 2023

Last updated on December 21st, 2022 at 01:45 pm

Every fisherman would like to invest in good trolling rods. They are the key to their fishing experience. An excellent trolling rod will hold the line well and catch your fish with ease and comfort. 

However, finding one of the best trolling rods for yourself won’t be easy. The market is growing, and so is the competition among the companies. Every manufacturing firm wants a good market share, and they are striving to get it. 

This all may sound good, but it has certain disadvantages. The increasing number of trolling rods is enough to confuse an experienced fisherman. That’s why we came up with a solution. In this article, we listed the best trolling rods that are selling like crazy in 2022. I believe these products will be suitable for your trolling reels. 

7 Best Trolling Rods At A Glance

IMAGE	PRODUCT	SHOP
Okuma	Okuma Classic Pro GLT & Rods Benefits: Constructed with the highest quality materials, Light and comfortable, Easy to carry, Durable and long-lasting, Strong and sturdy, Titanium oxide guide inserts, Choice of many anglers worldwide	Shop Here
St. Croix	St. Croix Rods Mojo Benefits: Mid-range beast, Performs like high-end rods, Solid construction, Lightweight, Comfortable and long-lasting, Unlike most of its competitors, very durable, It comes with five years warranty	Shop Here
Fiblink	Fiblink Saltwater Trolling Fishing Rod Benefits: Rust and corrosion-resistant, Solid and powerful, Fast action rod, Best for hunting big fish, Tough construction, Designed to withstand the harsh environments, Comfortable in hand	Shop Here
X 11	X 11 Cork Trolling Rod Benefits: Versatile in nature, Best for the lazy and on-a-budget type of people, Constructed with high-quality materials, Lightweight and comfortable, Long-lasting and value-for-money product, Corrosion-resistant, You can also attach your spinning reel to it	Shop Here
Okuma White	Okuma White Diamond Trolling Rod Benefits: Strong and durable construction, Lightweight and easy to hold, Stainless steel guide frames and inserts, Increases angler’s visibility, Best trolling rod for the money	Shop Here
Lamiglas	Lamiglas Kokanee and Trolling Rod Benefits: Lightweight, Super-strong fiberglass construction, Stainless steel frame, Durable and long-lasting, Applicable for multiple applications	Shop Here
B&M	B&M Duck Commander Crappie Benefits: IM6 graphite construction, Durable and strong, Comfortable in hand, Lightweight, Stainless steel guide, Affordable to everyone	Shop Here

We’ve also added a few basic stuff about the trolling rods and a complete Buyer’s Guide. So, let’s begin. 

The Best Trolling Rods of 2022

As I’ve mentioned above, every fisherman will like to invest in a good fishing rod. It’ll allow them to catch big fish and earn a good profit. Unfortunately, due to some reasons, it is not easy to find an excellent trolling rod for yourself these days, but luckily we have the solution. This article contains a list and reviews of the best trolling rods available in the market. These products have satisfied a vast majority of the audience, and we highly recommend them. 

1. Okuma Classic Pro GLT & Rods – Best Trolling Rod

If you’re an angler, I bet you’d already be familiar with Okuma products. There’s no doubt about the quality of their products. Their manufacturers never compromise on anything. Okuma trolling rods are best, and Classic Pro is no exception. This rod is at the top of our list, and we highly recommend it.

Features:

Okuma Classic Pro GLT is a fascinating trolling rod. It is made from the highest quality materials. The rod has a durable glass fiber blank construction, making it lighter and comfortable to hold. Okuma Classic Pro also offers double foot guides with titanium oxide inserts. Even more, it has a rubber shrink tube butt section that makes the rod more durable and long-lasting. 

The Okuma Classic Pro is used by professionals worldwide. It is also tested for quality and reliability before supplying. Moreover, the rod also contains a stainless steel hooded reel seat along with graphite cushions. Okuma Classic has everything to be at the top and the first choice of anglers around the globe. 

Buyer’s Response:

To be honest, I am also a fan of Okuma Classic, and I used it multiple times. It is undeniably one of the best trolling rods in my collection. Almost ninety-four out of one hundred are satisfied with this product and recommend using it. Besides, it is one of the top-rated trolling rods in the world. 

The Bottom Line:

As you must have noticed by now, the Okuma Classic Pro is by far the best trolling rod you can buy in 2022. It is built for targeting moderate size fish. However, you can also hunt large species, but I won’t recommend it daily. The rod is light, strong, and easy to carry, which makes it suitable for various environments, and we highly recommend it.

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2. St. Croix Rods Mojo – Best Trolling Rod for Tuna

The mojo, in its price range, represents an outstanding value. It is widely known for its sensitivity and sturdiness. This amazingly created product is also famous for offering versatility. Let’s find more about St. Croix trolling rod,

Features: 

In terms of features, this mojo rod is not different from expensive high-end rods. As mentioned earlier, it offers versatility to its users. One can use St. Croix for many applications. EVA and Cork handle allows anglers to feel comfortable and fish for hours without tiring the hand. 

Furthermore, the premium SCIII Carbon construction and IPC mandrel technology make the rod very durable and robust. Also, the St. Croix features Hero Hi-grade guides with thin aluminum-oxide rings. 

Buyer’s Response: 

The St. Croix Rod lies just above the mid-range products. People expect a lot from products that cost them this much. The same is the case with St. Croix Rod, and it meets the expectations of the people. This product is classified as one of the top-rated of its category. Ninety-three out of a hundred people are satisfied with their investment, and they also recommend St. Croix. 

The Bottom Line: 

To be honest, I was never a fan of St. Croix until I tried it. The rod features almost everything that is considered essential for trolling purposes. It is comfortable, light, and strong enough to target tuna easily. 

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3. Fiblink Saltwater Trolling Fishing Rod – Best Saltwater Trolling Rod

The third product on our list is known for power and action. The Fiblink Saltwater trolling rod is considered one of the best for harsh environments. It is also suitable for targeting large species. All these traits come at a very reasonable price, making it one of the best trolling rods for saltwater.

Features:

The features of a rod decide whether or not it will rule the market, and Fiblink Saltwater trolling rod is offering almost all of them. This unique and fantastic product is loaded with everything an angler would dream of. It is undeniably the best saltwater trolling rod. 

First of all, the Fiblink saltwater rod features excellent and top-quality 1-piece E-glass graphite blanks. It also features a machined aluminum alloy reel seat. Furthermore, this rod features heavy-duty roller guides, making it best suitable for targeting prominent and notorious giants of the water. The EVA foam handle and foregrips make the rod comfortable. 

Buyer’s Response:

Nearly everyone who bought it loved the firm grip of the Fiblink Saltwater trolling rod. The construction of the rod really captured the eyes of every angler. Not everyone can afford it. That’s the reason why it’s not in every angler’s hands. It is designed to win battles against large saltwater species, and it serves its purpose well. This rod is undoubtedly one of the best saltwater trolling rods, and anglers love it. 

The Bottom Line:

One thing is sure, whoever bought it will guarantee you Fiblink Saltwater rod’s power and strength. This rod is power, well-designed, durable, and best for harsh environments and conditions. Almost all the anglers are satisfied with it, and I recommend it specifically for saltwater. 

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4. X 11 Cork Trolling Rod – Best Trolling Rod for Salmon

Most of you will be searching for a perfect rod to target The Notorious Salmon. If that’s the case, then your search stops now. I’ve found you the best trolling rod for targeting salmon. X11 Cork is designed to target this fish and steelhead. Let’s see what else this rod can offer, 

Features:

The X11 Cork is suitable for various applications and fishing conditions. The manufacturers of this product engineered a fine rod that matches the boating techniques of anglers. It is a multi-purpose rod, meaning it offers versatility to anglers. Besides, it is specially designed for targeting steelhead and salmon. 

It features IM6 graphite construction that makes the rod lightweight. X11 Cork also features deep pressed stainless steel guides for efficiency. The structure and features of this rod make it unique and versatile. 

Buyer’s Response:

The remarkable work of X11 Cork’s manufacturers shines in the shape of customer’s remarks. It is one of the top-rated products of its category, and anglers love it. It is applicable for almost every condition and environment, making it one of the best trolling rods for the money. 

The Bottom Line: 

If you’re a lazy man or on a budget, then this rod is for you. X11 Cork is designed for people like us who want to have just one rod for everything. However, its versatility doesn’t make it wrong in different environments. In fact, it works well in every condition you try. So, I will highly recommend the X11 Cork.

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5. Okuma White Diamond Trolling Rod – Best Trolling Rod for the Money

I don’t think there’ll be a man who could refuse a value for money product, and that’s precisely what Okuma White Diamond is. It provides most of the premium rod features. Moreover, it lasts longer than its competitors. All in all, Okuma White Diamond is a significant investment. 

Features: 

Starting from the basics, Okuma White Diamond features a durable and robust carbon and glass blank construction. These materials are of high quality and provide value, and the UFR increases the rod’s lifting power and offers incredible strength. 

The Okuma White Diamond trolling rod comes with Low profile stainless steel guide frames and inserts. On top of that, it has a white upper blank section that increases the angler’s visibility. The rod also features cushioned stainless steel hooded reel seat. Besides, the EVA foregrip is comfortable and allows the angler to fish for hours without tiring. 

Buyer’s Response:

Everybody likes a value-for-money product because they provide more benefits than their cost. Okuma White Diamond is a well-known value-providing product, and almost all anglers like it because it is loaded with many features and provides durability. 

The Bottom Line: 

Will I recommend you Okuma White Diamond? Obviously, I will. Without a doubt, the White Diamond is one of the best options for your trolling reels. It is light, powerful, and costs half of a premium rod with almost all the same features. I highly recommend this trolling rod. 

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6. Lamiglas Kokanee and Trolling Rod – Best Trolling Rod for Trout

The Lamiglas is a lightweight and good-looking trolling rod. It comes with everything that an angler wants at a mid-range price. Even more, this rod is one of the top-rated in its category. Let’s learn more about this fantastic product. 

Features:

Just like X11 Cork, the Lamiglas also offers versatility. You can install your best baitcaster on it if you want to. The Lamiglas trolling rod is best for various freshwater techniques and applications. The super-strong fiberglass construction of the rod makes it durable. 

This brilliant product features a Nylon molded trigger grip reel seat, making it even more durable and long-lasting. Furthermore, the Lamiglas features stainless steel guide frames. It also features a classic cork handle type. These features and construction of Lamiglas make it one of the most versatile trolling rods. 

Buyer’s Response:

Ninety-six percent of Lamiglas users are pleased with the results. The rod performs well and is capable of catching trout very quickly. People believe that this rod is one of the best for targeting trout. 

The Bottom Line: 

Undoubtedly, the Lamiglas trolling rod is one of the best for its job. It will definitely meet your expectations. This amazing product holds the honor of satisfying its customer, and it will please you too. 

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7. B&M Duck Commander Crappie – Best Cheap Trolling Rod

If you are finding a suitable trolling rod for crappie, then here’s what you need. The B&M Duck Commander trolling rod. This product is specifically designed for targeting crappie. This popular fishing rod has satisfied its customers. Due to this, the Commander is considered the best cheap trolling rod for crappie. 

Features:

This rod is specially designed for targeting crappie. It has a robust IM6 graphite blank construction, making it durable and long-lasting. Even more, the rod features Dyna-FloStainless steel guides. The B&M Duck Commander also offers a Genuine Portuguese Cork handle, making it comfortable. Anglers like this type of cork handle because it allows them to fish for hours without tiring. 

Buyer’s Response: 

The B&M Commander is very popular. It meets buyers’ expectations, and they call it a decent fishing rod. In fact, it is one of the people’s favorites. Whoever bought it was satisfied by the rod’s performance. 

The Bottom Line:

We all want to invest our money in a decent rod. It’s not about how much money we pay; It’s about how good an item we bought. The B&M Commander is the best trolling rod. Without a doubt, it’s inexpensive, not cheap in quality. If you’re on a budget, then I recommend this brilliant rod. 

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The Suitable Trolling Rod for You

There are various kinds of trolling rods made for different purposes. Which is the most suitable for you? The answer to this question is “it depends.” However, choosing a suitable trolling rod is very crucial for enjoying your fishing experience. 

In this part of our article, I will tell you about a few points that you should keep in mind for buying a suitable trolling rod for you:

Construction: 

First thing first, there are hundreds of trolling rods made from different materials. If you are a saltwater angler, then the best rod for you is the one that can withstand the harsh environment and sand. However, if you’re a fan of freshwater trolling, any strong material will suit you. 

Strength:

If you are going to target a tournament-winning fish, then you need a strong trolling rod. The standard freshwater rods will not be able to catch a monstrous fish. However, keep in mind more power costs more money. 

Manual or Electric: 

You have to choose your rod according to the type of linecounter you have, manual or electric. My experience says you should use the electric one for easy and precise collaboration.

Friction:

You have to be very careful about the friction. Always buy a trolling rod that helps you in friction prevention, primarily when a sharp arc is formed, and the rod is bent. Otherwise, you won’t be able to catch a monstrous fish. 

Rust-Resistant: 

Your trolling rod must be resistant to rust. We all want to invest in good products, and the rest-resistant makes the rod good products. 

The Guide Option:

Guides are a very important part of trolling rods. Without this part, a rod is useless because they support the fishing line. Picking the proper guides is also very important. It is one of the factors that define maximum success. 

Roller:

Roller guides are the best for targeting the big species that fight the battle for too long. These guides allow you to thread the line on your best-trolling rod securely. The best thing about roller guides is that they don’t put much stress on the line. 

Standard Eyes:

The simple circles attached to the rod are standard eyes or standard guides. It is the most inexpensive type of guide and perfect for targeting small fish. On the contrary, the traditional eyes put a lot of stress on the fishing line and sometimes break it. 

The Inner Flow:

As the name indicates, the inner flow design has the line in the blank or middle of the trolling rod. This makes the rod bend, and thus, easy to catch fish. However, the inner flow is the most expensive option. Not everyone can afford it, but those who do never complain. 

What is the Best Trolling Rod?

Trolling rods are different from the rest of this category. They are longer than standard rods and built explicitly to drag lures and baits for targeting big game fish. The best trolling rods will allow you to catch walleye, salmon, and tune with ease and comfort and without breaking the line. 

The Trolling Rods are not the most crucial element for trolling. If you want, you can use any rod. The boat does half of the work. However, I will not recommend it. Trolling rods offer certain features that make trolling easy. Here are a few of them.

Strong:

The first special feature of trolling rods is they are built strong. Dragging of lure through water places stress on the rod. Due to this reason, you’ll need a strong and durable rod for the trolling actions.

flexibility: 

Trolling rods are flexible. In this way, the action is fast, and the lure is not very difficult to control. If a rod is rigid and can not bend enough or adequately, your action will be slow. Moreover, managing the lure will be difficult. That’s why trolling rods are made flexible. 

Line Control:

Trolling rod allows anglers to install their reel on top, making it easy to control the line. It makes it easier to fish for giant species. Different rods feature various kinds of reel frames. Consider the material of the frame before choosing a rod because it also affects its durability. 

Guides:

We’ve already covered the Line guides in the previous section. There are three types of guides. You can select whichever is best suitable for your fishing applications and conditions. 

Butt ends:

For a secure fit in the socket, the best trolling rods feature butt ends. There are two types of it, straight butt and bent butt. 

Straight Butt:

Due to its shape, straight butt trolling rods are easily stored in the socket. It works for almost all kinds of trolling, and anglers use small rods with the straight butt. They target small, medium, and medium-large species with this type of rod. However, you can go hunting for large species if you have a long rod. 

Bent Butt:

Bent butt rods are the most suitable for targeting large species. The gimballed socket is designed for storing these types of rods. Even more, the bent butt rods are best for the heavy drag settings of the reel. You can also target small species, but I will not recommend it. 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What is the best length for a trolling rod?

trolling rods are longer than others. Usually, they are between eight to fourteen feet. 

Can you use any rod for trolling?

You can use any rod for freshwater trolling, but when it comes to offshore or saltwater conditions, you’re going to need a decent trolling rod. However, I do not recommend any rod for trolling purposes. It’ll be better if you buy the best trolling rod for you. 

Is trolling and Casting rod the same?

No, they are not. A casting rod uses a baitcaster reel, and a trolling rod uses trolling reels.

Do you need more than one trolling rod?

It’s better to be loaded correctly. More rods will give you the advantage of better coverage. However, if you’re out for a casual trip, one rod will be enough.

Conclusion: 

As you are already aware, choosing one of the best trolling rods is not as easy as it sounds. You’ve to be well aware of their features and suitable conditions. Luckily, we covered everything about trolling rods in this article. We hope you find our work helpful. If you do, leave a comment and tell us about your fishing experience. Now go on, buy one for you and bring good fish home.