11 Best Catfish Rods To buy in 2024
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products— this post may contain affiliate links you can view our affiliate disclosure here
Are you an avid catfish angler looking to up your game? Or maybe you're just starting and need the perfect gear? Either way, you've come to the right place! We've compiled a list of the best catfish rods available on Amazon, each with its unique features to suit your fishing needs. So, let's dive right in and discover the perfect rod for catching those monster catfish!
The Ultimate Guide to Catfish Rods: Everything You Need to Know
Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure in pursuit of those whiskered giants lurking beneath the water's surface? If so, having the right gear is essential for a successful catfishing experience, and a high-quality rod is the foundation of your fishing setup. In this ultimate guide to catfish rods, we'll cover everything you need to know, from understanding rod features to choosing the perfect rod for your catfishing needs.
1. Understanding Rod Features
Before you can select the perfect catfish rod, it's crucial to understand the various features that make up a rod. Here are some essential aspects to consider:
Power and Action
Power refers to the rod's resistance to bending, while action describes where the rod bends. Catfish rods generally have medium-heavy to heavy power to handle the size and strength of catfish. Fast action rods bend near the tip, while moderate action rods bend in the middle. Fast action rods provide more sensitivity, while moderate action rods offer better casting distance.
Rod Length
Longer rods provide better casting distance, while shorter rods offer more control and leverage when fighting big fish. A good catfish rod typically ranges from 7 to 9 feet in length.
Handle Material
Handles on catfish rods are usually made of cork or EVA foam. Both materials provide a comfortable grip, but cork tends to be more sensitive and durable, while EVA foam is lighter and less expensive.
Reel Seats
Reel seats secure your reel to the rod. Ensure that the reel seat on your catfish rod is sturdy and compatible with your preferred reel type (spinning or casting).
2. Spinning Rods vs. Casting Rods
Spinning rods are generally more user-friendly and versatile, making them an excellent choice for beginners or those who prefer a simpler setup. They can be used with spinning reels, which are easy to use and suitable for various fishing techniques.
Casting rods are preferred by more experienced anglers who want better control and accuracy when casting. They are designed to be used with baitcasting reels, which offer more control but require more skill to use effectively.
3. Choosing the Right Rod for Your Fishing Style
When selecting the perfect catfish rod, consider your preferred fishing style:
- Bank fishing: If you're fishing from the bank, a longer rod (8-9 feet) with medium-heavy power and moderate action will provide better casting distance.
- Boat fishing: For boat fishing, a shorter rod (7-8 feet) with medium-heavy to heavy power and fast action offers more control and leverage when fighting big fish.
- Float fishing: For float fishing, a sensitive rod with medium-heavy power and fast action is essential for detecting subtle bites.
- Trolling: For trolling, choose a rod with heavy power and moderate action to handle the stress of dragging lures through the water.
4. Top Brands and Recommendations
Some popular brands for catfish rods include St. Croix, Ugly Stik, Abu Garcia, Okuma, and Bass Pro Shops. We recommend the following rods based on their features and user reviews:
- St. Croix Mojo Cat Casting Rod
- Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
- Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Casting Rod
- Okuma Cedros CJ-65S Spinning Rod
- Bass Pro Shops CatMaxx Casting Rod
5. Caring for Your Catfish Rod
To keep your catfish rod in tip-top shape, clean it regularly with mild soap and warm water, and dry it thoroughly before storage. Check for damage, such as cracked guides or loose reel seats, and repair or replace any damaged parts as needed. When not in use, store your rod in a protective case to prevent damage from impacts or environmental factors.
6. Pairing Your Rod with the Right Reel and Line
Selecting the right reel and line for your catfish rod is crucial to ensure optimal performance:
- Reel type: Choose a spinning reel for spinning rods and a baitcasting reel for casting rods. Make sure the reel has a sturdy drag system to handle the power of catfish.
- Line weight: Your line should match the recommended line weight for your rod. For catfishing, a 20-40 lb monofilament or braided line is typically sufficient.
- Line visibility: Catfish rely primarily on their sense of smell and taste, so line visibility is less critical. However, low-visibility lines, such as green or clear, can still be beneficial in clear water conditions.
7. Tips for a Successful Catfishing Experience
With your perfect catfish rod in hand, here are some tips to help you reel in those whiskered giants:
- Bait selection: Use stinky, natural baits like cut bait, chicken liver, or stink bait to attract catfish, as they have a keen sense of smell.
- Location: Catfish often hide in cover or structure, such as submerged trees, rock piles, or deep holes. Focus your efforts on these areas to increase your chances of success.
- Time of day: Catfish are typically more active during the early morning, late evening, and at night. Adjust your fishing schedule to match their feeding patterns.
- Patience: Catfishing can require a lot of patience. Be prepared to wait for bites and adjust your tactics as needed.
By following this ultimate guide to catfish rods, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any catfish challenge that comes your way.
With the right gear, knowledge, and a bit of patience, you'll soon be reeling in those whiskered giants and creating unforgettable memories on the water. Good luck, and tight lines!
Our Top Picks for the Best Catfish Rods
1. St. Croix Mojo Cat Casting Rod
St. Croix Mojo Cat Casting Rod is a top choice among catfish anglers. This high-quality rod features medium-heavy power, an ideal balance of strength and flexibility for catching big catfish. Its carbon fiber construction ensures durability while the cork handle provides a comfortable grip.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power for battling big fish
- Carbon fiber construction for increased durability
- Comfortable cork handle
Cons:
- Higher price point
Why we recommend it: The St. Croix Mojo Cat Casting Rod is perfect for serious catfish anglers looking for a reliable, high-quality rod.
Fun fact: St. Croix is a family-owned company with over 70 years of experience in crafting premium fishing rods.
2. Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is a popular choice among catfish anglers, known for its durability and versatility. Its medium-heavy power and action make it suitable for catching both channel cats and blue catfish. The rod's foam handle ensures a comfortable grip during long fishing sessions.
Pros:
- Durable and versatile for various catfish species
- Medium-heavy power and action for handling big catfish
- Foam handle for a comfortable grip
Cons:
- May be too stiff for some anglers' preferences
Why we recommend it: The Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is an excellent option for anglers seeking a durable and versatile catfish rod at an affordable price.
Fun fact: Ugly Stik is known for its Clear Tip design, which adds extra strength and sensitivity to the rod tip.
3. Okuma Cedros CJ-65S Spinning Rod
Okuma Cedros CJ-65S Spinning Rod is designed specifically for catfish anglers. Its medium-heavy power allows you to catch big catfish with ease, while the high-quality reel seat ensures your spinning reel stays securely in place. The longer handle provides added leverage when battling big fish.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power for handling big catfish
- High-quality reel seat for secure spinning reel attachment
- Longer handle for added leverage
Cons:
- May be too heavy for some anglers
Why we recommend it: The Okuma Cedros CJ-65S Spinning Rod is ideal for catfish anglers looking for a powerful rod with a secure reel seat and longer handle for added leverage.
Fun fact: Okuma is a global company with over 30 years of experience in manufacturing high-quality fishing gear.
4. Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Casting Rod
Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Casting Rod is a versatile rod, perfect for catching various catfish species. Its medium-heavy power and strong carbon fiber construction make it suitable for catching big catfish, while the EVA foam handle ensures a comfortable grip.
Pros:
- Versatile rod for different catfish species
- Carbon fiber construction for added strength and durability
- Comfortable EVA foam handle
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a cork handle
Why we recommend it: The Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Casting Rod is an excellent option for anglers who need a versatile and comfortable rod for catching big catfish.
Fun fact: Abu Garcia has a long history in the fishing industry, dating back to 1921 when the company was founded in Sweden.
5. Lew's American Hero Baitcast Combo
Lew's American Hero Baitcast Combo is a complete package for catfish anglers, including a casting rod and reel. The medium-heavy power rod is perfect for battling big catfish, while the reel's smooth performance ensures an enjoyable fishing experience.
Pros:
- Comes with a casting rod and reel
- Medium-heavy power for handling big fish
- Smooth reel performance
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a separate rod and reel
Why we recommend it: The Lew's American Hero Baitcast Combo is an ideal choice for anglers seeking a complete package for catching catfish.
Fun fact: Lew's is dedicated to supporting veterans, and a portion of the profits from the American Hero series is donated to support veteran programs.
6. PENN Battle II Spinning Combo
PENN Battle II Spinning Combo is another complete package for catfish anglers, including a spinning rod and reel. The medium-heavy power rod is suitable for catching big catfish, while the reel's high-quality construction ensures durability and performance.
Pros:
- Comes with a spinning rod and reel
- Medium-heavy power for handling big fish
- Durable and high-performing reel
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a separate rod and reel
Why we recommend it: The PENN Battle II Spinning Combo is perfect for anglers who want a high-quality spinning rod and reel combo for catching catfish.
Fun fact: PENN is a well-known and respected brand in the fishing industry, founded in 1932.
7. Daiwa Tatula Casting Rod
Daiwa Tatula Casting Rod is a high-quality casting rod, perfect for catfish anglers who prefer a separate rod and reel. Its medium-heavy power and action make it suitable for catching big catfish, while the comfortable cork handle ensures a secure grip.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power and action for handling big fish
- Comfortable cork handle
- High-quality construction
Cons:
- Higher price point
Why we recommend it: The Daiwa Tatula Casting Rod is a great choice for anglers who want a high-quality casting rod for catching catfish and don't mind investing in a separate reel.
Fun fact: Daiwa is a Japanese company with over 60 years of experience in manufacturing fishing gear.
8. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod
Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod is a reliable and affordable option for catfish anglers.
Its medium-heavy power and action make it suitable for catching big catfish, while the cork handle ensures a comfortable grip. The Ugly Stik Clear Tip design adds extra strength and sensitivity to the rod tip.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power and action for handling big fish
- Comfortable cork handle
- Ugly Stik Clear Tip design for added strength and sensitivity
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a different brand
Why we recommend it: The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod is an affordable option for catfish anglers who want a reliable and comfortable rod.
Fun fact: Shakespeare has been a trusted name in the fishing industry for over 100 years.
9. Berkley E-MOTION Casting Rod
Berkley E-MOTION Casting Rod is a versatile rod that catfish anglers can use for different fishing techniques. Its medium-heavy power ensures it can handle big catfish, while the hybrid design grip provides a comfortable and secure hold.
Pros:
- Versatile rod for different fishing techniques
- Medium-heavy power for handling big fish
- Hybrid design grip for comfort and security
Cons:
- Some anglers may prefer a more specialized rod
Why we recommend it: The Berkley E-MOTION Casting Rod is perfect for catfish anglers who want a versatile rod that can handle various fishing techniques.
Fun fact: Berkley is known for its commitment to innovation and research in the fishing industry.
10. Dobyns Rods Fury Series Casting Rod
Dobyns Rods Fury Series Casting Rod is a high-quality rod designed for serious catfish anglers. The medium-heavy power and fast action make it perfect for catching big catfish, while the high-density cork handle ensures a comfortable grip.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power and fast action for handling big fish
- High-quality construction
- Comfortable high-density cork handle
Cons:
- Higher price point
Why we recommend it: The Dobyns Rods Fury Series Casting Rod is ideal for experienced catfish anglers who want a high-quality rod and are willing to invest in their gear.
Fun fact: Dobyns Rods is a company founded by professional angler Gary Dobyns, who has over 100 tournament wins to his name.
11. Bass Pro Shops CatMaxx Casting Rod
Bass Pro Shops CatMaxx Casting Rod is an affordable and reliable option for catfish anglers. Its medium-heavy power and fiberglass construction make it suitable for catching big catfish, while the EVA foam handle provides a comfortable grip.
Pros:
- Medium-heavy power for handling big fish
- Fiberglass construction for durability
- Comfortable EVA foam handle
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a carbon fiber construction
Why we recommend it: The Bass Pro Shops CatMaxx Casting Rod is an excellent choice for anglers seeking an affordable and reliable rod for catching catfish.
Fun fact: Bass Pro Shops is a well-known retailer in the outdoor industry, offering a wide range of fishing gear and equipment.
By including these 11 best catfish rods in your arsenal, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any catfish challenge that comes your way. Whether you prefer casting rods or spinning rods, there's a perfect option on this list for you.
Conclusion
So catfishing is an exciting and rewarding pastime that brings anglers of all skill levels closer to nature and the thrill of the catch. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you're well-equipped to choose the best catfish rod for your needs and embark on a successful catfishing adventure. Remember, the right gear, knowledge, and a touch of patience are the keys to a great catfishing experience. So grab your rod, reel, and bait, head to your favorite fishing spot, and enjoy the serenity and excitement that catfishing has to offer. Tight lines and happy fishing, friends! 🎣🐟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best length for a catfish rod?
Can I use a regular fishing rod for catfishing?
What type of line should I use for catfishing?
Can I use a spinning rod for catfishing, or do I need a casting rod?
How often should I clean and maintain my catfish rod?
Do I need a specific type of bait for catfishing?
Also check out our other top lists:
