This guide will help you pick out the best pier fishing rod so that you’ll never be disappointed with your catch again!
Fishing on the pier might seem like it would be easy, but if you want to bring home a lot of fish every time you head to the pier, you need to have the right equipment and know what’s going on in the ocean water.
Your fishing rod plays an important role in how well you can use it to catch fish. There are so many different rods out there, that it can be difficult to know which one is right for you, especially if you don’t know what to look for in a fishing rod!
This article will give you some tips on how to find the perfect pier fishing rod and what to look for when choosing one.
List of Top 10 Best Pier Fishing Rods For The Money
Image | Product | Feature | Price |
---|---|---|---|
best overall
|
Ugly Stik Elite Pier Spinning Fishing Rod
|
If you are looking for a great spinning pole that won’t break your budget, then the Ugly Stik Elite is an excellent choice. | Check On Amazon |
Pier Fishing Rod Under 100
|
Quantum Reliance Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Review
|
The graphite composite construction of both pieces makes them lightweight but extremely durable, while their corrosion resistance means they’ll last even longer in saltwater environments. | Check On Amazon |
Under $50
|
Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rod Review
|
These rods are made with carbon fiber and fiberglass composite bodies to make them more durable and resistant to damage. | Check On Amazon |
Under $150
|
X5 Series Adventure Fishing Rod Review
|
The X5 Series is a set of five different rods that can be used together or separately. The combination of these rods will give you a total of 15 different possibilities to catch more fish. | Check On Amazon |
best For Saltwater
|
Dr.Fish Saltwater Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
|
This Surf Fishing Rod Combo includes; a 1-7′6′′ or 8′ rod, 1-high density carbon fiber blank, 1-Fuji SIC guides, 1-stainless steel reel seat, Spinning Fishing Reel, and 1-large arbor design. | Check On Amazon |
Pier Tenkara Fly Fishing Rod
|
DRAGONtail Shadowfire Pier Fishing Rod
|
The dragon tail Shadowfire 365 is a great lightweight alternative to heavier Tenkara rods. | Check On Amazon |
Under $100
|
B’n’M Sam Heaton Super Sensitive Pier Fishing Rod Review
|
The Heaton Super Sensitive is well-suited to a variety of pier fishing techniques and provides a sensitive, accurate bite. | Check On Amazon |
Rod and Reel Combo
|
EatMyTackle Sabiki Rig Fishing Rod and Baitcaster Reel Combo Review
|
This combo includes a 7-foot-long rod, an adjustable bait caster reel, and 40 Sabiki rig beads. | Check On Amazon |
best for beginner
|
Ardent Tournament Pro Series Fishing Rods
|
The Ardent Tournament Pro Series Rods are a highly durable, low-maintenance series of tournament-grade casting rods designed for use in all types of freshwater and saltwater locations around the world. | Check On Amazon |
best rated
|
Moonshine Spin Fishing Rod with Carrying Case
|
Best Fishing Rods for Pier Fishing. Moonshine Rod Co. The Rambler Series is designed to be a rod for spinning your lure and bait on any pier. | Check On Amazon |
#Best Overall Pier Fishing Rod
1- Ugly Stik Elite Pier Spinning Fishing Rod
If you are looking for a great spinning pole that won’t break your budget, then the Ugly Stik Elite is an excellent choice.
These rods have been used by fishermen all over and come with lifetime warranties so you can rest assured that you will be getting your money’s worth from these premium products.
They also come with some interesting features like open channel stripper guides and Fuji aluminum oxide guides to help reduce line twists and ultimately improve casting accuracy.
The handles of these poles are made from cork which offers a comfortable grip even when you are out on your boat for hours at a time.
They also feature split grips which allow anglers to adjust their grips in order to prevent fatigue when they need it most.
The Ugly Stik Elite comes in several different lengths ranging from 6 feet all the way up to 10 feet, so there is sure to be one that fits your needs perfectly.
Key features
- Its cork handle is designed to absorb shock from large fish while still providing plenty of comfort during long days out on the water.
- It has enough backbone to handle big catfish and bass, but also provides a delicate touch when you’re trying to reel in panfish or trout.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used on both freshwater and saltwater bodies of water.
Pros
- Excellent power
- Very responsive
- Ultralight
- Ideal size
- Smooth action
- Sturdy
Cons
- Short size
Why we choose this product
The Ugly Stik Elite is one of our favorite piers. This 7-foot pole feels great in your hands and can really take a beating. It casts pretty far, too.
The manufacturers claim it can cast as far as 300 feet but we’ve gotten good distance with it up to 50 yards without any problems. It’s also very sensitive, so you’ll feel any nibbles or pulls that indicates you’ve got a fish on your line.
Related Post: Best Rod and Reel Combo for Saltwater Pier Fishing
#Best Pier Fishing Rod Under 100$
2- Quantum Reliance Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo Review
Available With These Components
- Durable
- Graphite Rod with Cork Handle
- Saltwater
- Freshwater Ready with Fully Sealed
- Fishing Reel
The graphite composite construction of both pieces makes them lightweight but extremely durable, while their corrosion resistance means they’ll last even longer in saltwater environments.
Both pieces are also equipped with aluminum oxide guides to ensure smooth casting and excellent durability. The reel comes with a 2-speed gear ratio of 5.2:1 and 6.3:1, which makes it easy to cast even in strong winds.
It also features Quantum’s Power Roller III line roller technology, which reduces friction when casting or retrieving lines.
You can use it to fish with small panfish, perch, trout, crappie, walleye, or even salmon. It has an ergonomic handle that provides a firm grip while reeling in your catch.
Key features
- The Quantum Reliance Saltwater Rod is a great choice for anglers looking to go light on long excursions.
- It’s telescopic, so you can easily store it away in your backpack without taking up too much space.
- And at 6-7 feet, it’ll get your line far enough into waters deep enough for one of those fish of a lifetime.
- Whether you are an avid fisher or just want to give it a try, Quantum has all your needs covered with its affordable and high-quality rods.
Pros
- Good action
- Durable
- Portable
- Good response
- Firm grip
- Smooth reeling action
Cons
- Short casting
Why we choose this product
This is a solid set up at a good price point. This combo combines a sturdy spinning reel and high-quality Quantum rod in one easy purchase.
The Reliance comes with an anti-reverse system, which will help prevent you from spooling in any line by accident when casting.
The 6.6:1 gear ratio gives you plenty of lines to play with on your next fishing trip, and you won’t have to worry about tangles or other issues.
Related Article: Best Pier Fishing Rod Holder
#Best Pier Fishing Rod Under $50
3- Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rod Review
These rods are made with carbon fiber and fiberglass composite bodies to make them more durable and resistant to damage.
They also have EVA grips that allow you to hold onto your rod without feeling any discomfort. They come in several different sizes, ranging from 6’0 all the way up to 7’6, so you can get one that fits your needs perfectly.
The double-footed ceramic guides help keep your line in place as you reel it in. There is also an adjustable hook keeper at the end of each handle, which allows you to keep your hooks safe while not using them.
The Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rods are designed specifically for pier fishing, but they work great on land too!
Key Features
- This rod is great for a 3 to 4-pound test line.
- It has a graphite reel seat and stainless steel guides ring inserts for better durability.
- The rod has a tip action which makes it a good buy for backpacking and fishing because of its power to weight ratio.
- This product comes in different sizes, lengths, and actions depending on what your fishing needs are.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sensitive
- Good action
- Rustproof
- Good griping
- Easy to carry
Cons
- Null
Why we Choose This Product
When it comes to pier-fishing rods, you need a rod that is short enough to cast, yet long enough to feel like you’re hooked up with something that is substantial.
The Okuma Tundra Surf Glass Spinning Rods (in 2-, 3-, and 4-weight versions) are exactly what you need. Lightweight and sensitive, these rods will have you catching all kinds of inshore species in no time.
Check This One: Best Rod for Surf and Pier Fishing
#Best Pier Travel Fishing Rod Under $150
4- X5 Series Adventure Fishing Rod Review
Also, Use For…
- Nano-Carbon Fishing Rod
- Combinations for All Your Fishing Needs
- Spin Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Ledger Fishing
The X5 Series is a set of five different rods that can be used together or separately. The combination of these rods will give you a total of 15 different possibilities to catch more fish.
Each rod is designed with Nano-Carbon technology, making them extremely sensitive and strong. These rods are great for traveling and allow you to fish in many locations without having to carry multiple rods.
5 ball-bearing steel reel seats for each rod allows for smooth casting and retrieval. They also have EVA handles for comfort while reeling in your big catch.
Key Features
- On any trips where space is a premium, use your lightweight X5 travel fishing rod that can easily fit into any small crevice in your bag without worrying about damaging it or taking up too much space.
- The poles are designed with non-slip EVA handles so you don’t have to worry about dropping them in any water conditions either!
- It has an impressive strength-to-weight ratio of 20 times greater than steel, which means it will last longer while being easier to handle.
Pros
- Excellent power
- Ultralight
- Sturdy
- Smooth action
- Comfortable
- Good response
- Portable
Cons
- Short length
Why we Choose This Product
The X5 Series Travel Fishing Rod is a solid, versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways. If you’re looking to fish from a boat or shoreline, you can easily adjust its length and use it as an extension rod.
This particular model has been made with Nano-Carbon fiber, which allows it to be both lightweight and sturdy. It also comes with protective covers for both ends of the line, making storage easy when not in use.
It breaks down into four sections so you can pack it away in your luggage without taking up too much space.
View More: Best Spinning Rod for Pier Fishing
#Best Pier Fishing Rod For Saltwater
5- Dr.Fish Saltwater Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
Available With These Components
- Full Kit
- 12ft Heavy Surf Rod
- Carbon Fiber
- 10000 Spinning Reel
- Heavy Duty
- Big Game Offshore
- Inshore Fishing
- Outfit GT Popper
This Surf Fishing Rod Combo includes; a 1-7′6′′ or 8′ rod, 1-high density carbon fiber blank, 1-Fuji SIC guides, 1-stainless steel reel seat, Spinning Fishing Reel, and 1-large arbor design.
The Fuji guides are lightweight and have a stainless steel frame that is durable and will hold up to years of use.
These rods are built with high-quality components making them extremely strong and able to handle any fish you can throw at them.
The Dr.Fish Surf Rods come in two different lengths; 7’6′′ or 8′, depending on your preference and what type of fish you’re trying to catch.
Key features
- Dr. Fish’s H2-Saltwater spinning rod is particularly great for anglers who have to hike long distances to reach their favorite fishing spot.
- The 9-foot, the 2-inch model has a proprietary shock lock casting system that makes it much easier to cast than traditional rods of its size.
- The thick line guide and sensitive blank also let you feel even light bites.
Pros
- Super compact
- Ultralight
- Rustproof
- Super adjustable
- Good comfort level
- Super sturdy
- Fit for all ages
- Long casting angle
Cons
- Soft tip
Why we choose this product
Dr.Fish Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos offer anglers an affordable way to fish from a pier or jetty without breaking their budget.
Each combo is made from premium stainless steel and comes in five different sizes.
They are designed with a comfortable foam handle that makes it easy to hold onto even when wet, while both reel seats and handles include braided lines which reduce tangling when you’re fighting a big catch!
#Best Pier Tenkara Fly Fishing Rod
6- DRAGONtail Shadowfire Pier Fishing Rod
The dragon tail Shadowfire 365 is a great lightweight alternative to heavier Tenkara rods.
It weighs in at only 2.5 oz and comes in a very nice protective case that makes it easy to carry in your backpack while you’re out and about.
The 10-foot length makes it perfect for anglers who don’t have a lot of space on their boat or in their truck to bring longer rods with them.
Key features
The tenkara-style fishing rod has been around for quite some time and is one of the best products in terms of backpacking fishing rods.
The rods are so light you won’t even notice them in your backpack and can cast a nice long line with ease. If you don’t want to use conventional tackle on your trip, then consider investing in tenkara-style fishing rods.
Pros
- Ultra-Light
- Good action
- Perfect size
- Smooth
- Portable
- Long casting
- Sensitive
- Good griping
Cons
- Null
Why we choose this product
The tenkara-style fishing rod has been around for quite some time and is one of the best products in terms of backpacking fishing rods.
The rods are so light you won’t even notice them in your backpack and can cast a nice long line with ease. If you don’t want to use conventional tackle on your trip, then consider investing in tenkara-style fishing rods.
#Best Pier Fishing Rod Under $100
7- B’n’M Sam Heaton Super Sensitive Pier Fishing Rod Review
The Heaton Super Sensitive is well-suited to a variety of pier fishing techniques and provides a sensitive, accurate bite.
With IM6 construction, it is sturdy enough to catch fish without being too heavy or bulky. Rod Length: 10 feet. Line Weight: 8-17 lbs.
Material: Fiberglass/Composite/Graphite rod. It provides smooth action that makes casting easier. It weighs 6 ounces and has no guides on it whatsoever.
You can feel everything with these rods, which makes them perfect for piers fishing where you want to know if you have a bite or not at any given moment.
Key features
- The rod is able to handle bigger fish as it has strong blanks, as well as wide tip-top thread and cork handles.
- It comes with a protective tube that makes it easy to carry around.
- It also comes with a lifetime warranty so you can be sure that you are getting your money’s worth.
- This rod can be used by both professional fishermen and beginners alike because of its ease of use and quality construction.
Pros
- Robust blank
- Very sensitive
- Excellent lifting power
- Durable
- Responsive
- Ideal size
- Easy to use
Cons
- Crack-able handle
Why we choose this product
This rod is sensitive and light, making it ideal for casting with lighter lures. Its lightweight design makes it easy to cast, while its sensitivity provides you with a detailed connection between you and your lure.
The IM6 graphite construction of these B’n’M Sam Heaton Super Sensitive 10-Feet 2 Piece IM6 Rods helps you to feel even minuscule changes in your bait’s position in relation to underwater obstacles.
The built-in Fuji reel seat gives you an extra level of comfort as well as stability when reeling in that trophy catch.
#Best Pier Fishing Rod For Baitcaster
8- EatMyTackle Sabiki Rig Fishing Rod and Baitcaster Reel Combo Review
This combo includes a 7-foot-long rod, an adjustable bait caster reel, and 40 Sabiki rig beads.
The setup is lightweight enough to cast easily, yet strong enough to catch some pretty big fish.
Even though it’s a fixed-spool reel, it has plenty of room for braided line up to 80-pound test strength because it comes with 50 yards of the 60-pound monofilament leader line.
This tackle box set also includes 30 pre-tied Sabiki rigs that are ready to use right out of the box. With an ergonomic design and a comfortable EVA grip, you can fish all day without getting tired.
This tackle box set makes an excellent gift for both novice anglers and seasoned pros alike!
Key Features
The reel is equipped with a ball bearing system that ensures smooth operation.
It also comes with 4 different hooks (1 treble hook and 3 circle hooks) that you can use to attach them to your line when it comes time to cast them out into open water.
It comes with an integrated lanyard loop so you can attach it easily without worrying about losing it in case something happens to drop off into the water.
Pros
- Super light
- Strong blank
- Smooth reeling
- Comfortable grip
- Portable
- Durable
Cons
- Low casting diameter
Why we choose this product
The Sabiki Rig is a classic way to catch baitfish and is perfect for targeting your favorite species of minnow. It’s a great way to fill up your bucket with bait while you’re out on a larger fishing trip.
The Sabiki Rig comes in three different sizes: 6′′, 8′′, and 10′′. All are made from strong fiberglass that can withstand heavy use without breaking or cracking under pressure.
The reels have smooth gears so they won’t slip during casting, even if there is tension on your line. This means less time untangling lines and more time fishing!
Related Article: Best Pier Fishing Reels To Buy
9- Ardent Tournament Pro Series Fishing Rods
- Medium-Heavy Casting Rod
- 1 Piece Design
- Stainless Steel line Guides
- 9” Golf Style Split Grip Handles
- 1-Year Warranty
The Ardent Tournament Pro Series Rods are a highly durable, low-maintenance series of tournament-grade casting rods designed for use in all types of freshwater and saltwater locations around the world.
The TP Series has been developed in collaboration with Team USA and these are used by professional anglers on tour.
These highly-durable precision-machined graphite blanks have a high-quality anodized finish which helps to minimize corrosion and wear.
You can choose from a range of models including fast action, medium action, and slow action designs that come in either spinning or casting configurations. All models feature Fuji guides and include a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.
Key features
These tournament rods are known for their power and sturdiness, making them ideal for big fish and even bigger days on rivers or streams.
The rod’s taper allows it to maximize its line recovery time, so you can throw as hard as you want and catch as many fish as possible. It comes with fighting butts that make reeling in large fish a breeze.
The reel seat is made of aluminum alloy and features stainless steel hooded guides with double-foot snake guides.
Pros
- Durable
- Long casting
- Ideal for bass fishing
- Very stable
- Corrosion-free
- Comfortable
Cons
- Null
Why we choose this product
A great tool for everything from tossing lures to smaller bottom fish, Ardent Tournament Pro Series rods are light enough to cast all day without fatiguing your hands.
They’re made of high-modulus carbon fiber so they retain their strength and flexibility even after countless hours in salt water, making them a great choice if you plan on spending lots of time at sea.
Plus, they’re built with a protective Teflon coating that prevents rusting over time.
10- Moonshine Spin Fishing Rod with Carrying Case
Best Fishing Rods for Pier Fishing. Moonshine Rod Co. The Rambler Series is designed to be a rod for spinning your lure and bait on any pier.
This rod has got a powerful action and super sensitive tip that will allow you to detect every slightest bite and set your hook fast!
With an amazing backbone, you can throw braid or any other line with confidence.
It’s strong enough so it won’t break under tough conditions. You won’t find another spinning rod like this one anywhere else!
They are made from high quality carbon fiber and premium-grade cork handle. Each of these rods comes with a lifetime warranty!
If you are looking for best fishing rod for pier fishing then look no further than Moonshine Rod Co.
Key features
- Rambler Rod comes with a heavy-duty canvas tube case that is perfect for storing and transporting your rod.
- This case will also keep your rod safe from dust, dirt, sand, and moisture while in storage.
- The case has a convenient carrying handle and a metal latch to secure it closed.
- The Rambler series is designed to be used by all skill levels of pier fishermen
- This rod is perfect for catching everything from panfish to pike and walleye on a pier or shoreline.
- The Rambler has exceptional sensitivity and action that will have you casting farther and more accurately than ever before!
Why we choose this product
The Rambler Series Spin Fishing Rod is a great choice for anyone who loves to fish from piers. It’s very light and easy to use, making it ideal for any beginner.
It’s also durable and long-lasting, so you can keep using it even after you become an expert angler. This is one of our favorite choices because it has everything that you need in a rod at a very affordable price.
How To Choose Best Pier Fishing Rod For Beginners
Finding a good fishing rod can sometimes be harder than finding a good fish. The goal of any fisherman is to find an effective rod that will last a long time, keep fish hooked and pull them in when necessary, and fit comfortably into your hand while you’re reeling them in.
There are many factors to consider when shopping for these tools—whether they are on land or on a pier over saltwater.
First and foremost, it should be durable; you don’t want something that is going to snap after a few uses.
For durability reasons, fiberglass is probably your best bet— it can withstand wear and tear from both sand and water better than most other materials (fiberglass will also retain its shape longer).
But there are some other things to think about, too. If you plan on using more than one bit at a time, look for a two-piece or collapsible model so that you have more flexibility in what you can use.
Likewise, if you plan on catching multiple types of fish with one rod (for example, bottom-dwelling fish and pelagic fish), look for a model with multiple line guides so that each kind of line has its own space.
Finally, while you might not need a fancy reel right away, make sure that whatever reel comes with your rod can handle large fish.
You don’t want to get halfway through reeling in a big catch only to realize that your equipment isn’t up to snuff!
Comparison Table of Top Picks
UGLY STIK ELITE SPINNING ROD | QUANTUM RELIANCE ON SPINNING ROD | OKUMA TUNDRA SURF SPINNING RODS | X5 SERIES TRAVEL FISHIN ROD | DR. FISH SALTWATER ROD REEL COMBO | |
LENGTH | 6’ | 7’2’’ | 7-12 FT | 7’2’’ | 12 FT |
SECTIONS | 1 | 1 | 2 | 5 RODS | 3 |
KEY
FEATURES |
Graphite blank, medium-heavy power, cork butt, sensitive tip | Telescopic, durable, aluminum body, fast action, long casting, Cork handle | Portable, telescopic, durable, fiberglass material, moderate action, long casting | Carbon blank, spin casting reel, smooth and fast action, sensitive tip | For heavy lures heavy power, carbon fiber robust blank |
WEIGHT | Ultralight | Super light | Lightweight | Lightweight | Lightweight |
DRAGON TAIL SHADOW FIRE FISHING ROD | BNM SAM HEATON ROD | EAT MY TACKLE SABIKI | ARDENT TOURNAMENT PRO RODS | MOONSHINE FISHING COMBO | |
LENGTH | 12 ft | 10’ | 7’ | 6’10’’ | 7 |
SECTIONS | 8 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
KEY
FEATURES |
Collapsible, rigged and ready, sturdy blank, fly fishing rod | Portable, durable, flexible, cork butt | Spinning reel, light, durable, ideal for minnows, strip baits, etc | Medium-heavy, casting, stainless steel guides, graphite blank, split grip, | GRAPHITE Blank, durable, portable, medium-heavy action |
WEIGHT | 2.9 oz | Lightweight | Super light | Lightweight | Ultralight |
FAQs
1- What is the best setup for pier fishing?
With many options available, it can be hard to choose which setup is best for pier fishing. There are a variety of rods, reels, and line sizes that you can use.
The two most important factors when choosing your equipment are what type of fish you want to catch and how far out in the water you’ll be standing.
If you’re looking for small fish such as perch or bluegill, then a medium-sized rod will work well. A medium-sized rod will also work well if you plan on catching larger fish but won’t need to cast very far out into deeper water.
2- Are surf rods good for pier fishing?
Not many people will be surprised to hear that surf rods are not well suited for fishing from a pier. Surf poles have long handles and large reels, which makes them difficult to maneuver in tight quarters.
It’s best to purchase a pole specifically designed for use on piers if you plan on landing fish while on one.
3- How do you catch big fish on a pier?
In order to catch big fish from a pier, you will need an efficient rod and reel setup. You want to use a braided line with at least 50 pounds of test strength. You should also have a spinning reel that is capable of holding at least 250 yards of line.
If you are not sure how many lines your rig can hold, it is best to err on the side of caution and get one that holds more than enough. Your rig should be equipped with 4-6 pound test hooks in size 2/0 or 1/0 depending on what type of bait you are using.
4- How long should a pier fishing rod be?
You’ll want a decent length rod for pier fishing. The longer your rod, the more weight you can cast out and control, so keep that in mind as you browse for one.
If you’re going to be casting out long distances with little to no weight, then a 7-footer is probably best. If you’re casting out a little less far but might want to throw some extra bait out at times, then a 6-footer will do just fine.
5- What size hook should I use for pier fishing?
If you’re fishing off a pier, it doesn’t really matter what size hook you use, although smaller hooks are better for baitfish. Larger hooks tend to snag more on underwater structures, which isn’t fun when you have a heavy rod to reel back in.
Conclusion
A good fishing rod is important when pier fishing. A good rod should allow you to cast a line very far and be easy to reel in. Choosing a strong fishing rod that works for you will help you catch fish more easily. We hope we have been able to help you find a good pier fishing rod for your next trip out onto your favorite fishing pier! Happy Fishing!