Best Freshwater Fishing Rods of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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For those who enjoy the peacefulness of a day spent by the lake or river, freshwater fishing is the perfect pastime. And to fully enjoy this experience, you need a high-quality fishing rod that can handle the challenges of freshwater fishing. These freshwater fishing rods are designed specifically for this purpose, with features such as lightweight construction, sensitive tips, and sturdy handles. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, these rods will help you catch more fish and make the most of your time on the water.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Abu Garcia Lightweight Carbon Spinning Rod Cover #TOP 1
Abu Garcia Lightweight Carbon Spinning Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod for Trout Fishing Cover #TOP 2
Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod for Trout Fishing
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod Cover #TOP 3
Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Freshwater Fishing Rods

Abu Garcia Lightweight Carbon Spinning Rod

1216277
Black
2.13m | 5-15g
Abu Garcia Lightweight Carbon Spinning Rod Cover
Abu Garcia Devil Spinning, Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Allround Fishing,Classic Lightweight Carbon Spin Fishing Rod With Cork Handle - Freshwater and Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 2.13m | 5-15g

The Abu Garcia Spinning Rod is crafted with a carbon composite blank, making it both light and resilient. This feature ensures that you can fish for extended periods without feeling fatigued. It also comes with TS quality guides, which are perfect for braided line use, providing smooth performance and reducing line tangles. The cork handle adds comfort and grip, making it easy to handle even in wet conditions. With excellent value for money, this rod is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable design
Great for braided lines
Comfortable cork handle
Suitable for various waters
Excellent value for money

Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod for Trout Fishing

Mitchell
1446207
Black
1.80m| 2-12g
Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod for Trout Fishing Cover
Mitchell Epic Spinning, Spin Fishing Rod for Saltwater and Freshwater, Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Trout Fishing, Trout, Unisex, Black, 1.80m| 2-12g

The Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod is specifically designed for trout anglers, ensuring every feature meets your needs when fishing in rivers, streams, and lakes. Its high-performance blank construction, made from 30T carbon, delivers exceptional sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the lightest bites. The enhanced reel seat and grip provide secure handling, ensuring comfort during long fishing sessions. Additionally, the elegant black and gold finish not only adds style but also makes this rod a stunning choice for your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Designed for trout anglers
High sensitivity and precision
Comfortable grip for long sessions
Stylish black and gold design
#TOP 3

Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod

BERKLEY
1531524
1.7m | 2-7g
Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod Cover
Berkley Cherrywood Spinning Rod, Lightweight with Cork Handle - Saltwater and Freshwater Spin Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Predator Fishing, Unisex, red, 1.7m | 2-7g

The Berkley Cherrywood Rod is designed with a lightweight and well-balanced blank, making it ideal for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Its medium action provides versatility, allowing you to adapt to various fishing techniques effortlessly. The lightweight stainless steel rings enhance durability and reduce wear, ensuring a smoother experience while casting. Additionally, the cork handle offers a comfortable grip, giving you better control during your fishing trips. With these features, you can enjoy a more enjoyable and successful fishing experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and well balanced
Versatile medium action
Durable stainless steel rings
Comfortable cork handle

RIGGED AND READY S MID Big Fish Travel Rod

RIGGED AND READY S MID Big Fish Travel Rod Cover
RIGGED AND READY S MID Carp Big Fish Hi-Carbon Travel Fishing Rod. Powerful Predator, Carp, Light Sea and freshwater angling + 2 tips + Case. 320 cm (10.5') and 270 cm (8.85') rod options

The RIGGED & READY S MID Rod is an exceptional choice for mobile anglers targeting big fish in both freshwater and saltwater. With its lightweight design and compact carry size, you can easily transport it anywhere. The unique British design features a Hi-Carbon rod blank and premium spigot joints, ensuring strong and reliable performance. Plus, the two interchangeable tips allow you to adapt your fishing style to different conditions, so you can maximise your angling success.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Interchangeable tips for versatility
Durable construction for reliability
Suitable for various fishing styles
#TOP 5

Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod

BERKLEY
1531526
1.8m | 10-35g
Berkley Cherrywood Lightweight Spinning Rod Cover
Berkley Cherrywood Spinning Rod, Lightweight with Cork Handle - Saltwater and Freshwater Spin Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Predator Fishing, Unisex, Red, 1.8m | 10-35g

The Berkley Spinning Rod is designed with a lightweight and well-balanced rod blank, making it easy for you to handle during your fishing adventures. Its moderate-fast action enhances versatility, allowing you to use it for various fishing techniques. The lightweight stainless steel guides ensure smooth line flow, which can improve your casting distance and accuracy. Additionally, the cork handle grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions.

What We Like
Lightweight and balanced design
Versatile for various fishing techniques
Smooth line flow with guides
Comfortable cork handle grips
#TOP 6

Mitchell Adventure II Durable Spinning Rod

Mitchell
1558842
Black/Orange
1.8m | 4-15g
Mitchell Adventure II Durable Spinning Rod Cover
Mitchell Adventure II Spinning Rod, Fishing Rod, Allround Fishing, Durable Glass Composite Spin Fishing Lure Rods for Freshwater and Sea Fishing, Unisex, Black/Orange, 1.8m | 4-15g

The Mitchell Adventure II Rod is designed for beginner and junior anglers, offering a great balance of durability and affordability. Its two-piece glass composite construction ensures strength, allowing you to handle powerful casts and fight hard fish without worry. The stainless steel guides are saltwater proof, reducing rust and corrosion, which helps you achieve smoother casts. Additionally, the EVA handle grips provide a soft and ergonomic touch, enhancing your control over the rod while reeling in your catch.

What We Like
Durable construction for longevity
Saltwater proof guides
Comfortable EVA handle grips
Great for beginners and juniors
Affordable price point
#TOP 7

Sougayilang SD4 Portable Carp Fishing Rod

Black
Sougayilang SD4 Portable Carp Fishing Rod Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Rod, Porable High Carbon 4 Pieces Blanks Carp Fishing Rod for Travel Freshwater Saltwater Fishing

The Sougayilang SD4 Rod is a versatile hybrid fishing rod, perfect for both spod and marker fishing. Its lightweight carbon fibre construction ensures easy handling while providing a powerful 3.75-pound test curve, giving you excellent control during your fishing sessions. With carefully designed guides, you can enjoy longer casts with enhanced accuracy, making your fishing experience more enjoyable. Additionally, the high-quality components allow compatibility with various fishing lines, ensuring you have the right setup for any situation.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Exceptional casting accuracy
High-quality construction materials
Versatile for different fishing techniques

Sougayilang 3.6M Carbon Fiber Carp Rod

Sougayilang 3.6M Carbon Fiber Carp Rod Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Rod Carbon Fiber Spinning Fishing Rod,with Super Smooth Guide Ring,(3M/3.6M) 6/7 Section Portable Travel Fishing Pole for Saltwater or Freshwater Carp Rod-3.6M

The Sougayilang Carp Rod is crafted from high-quality carbon fibre, ensuring remarkable strength and pressure resistance. This lightweight rod, weighing only 3.5LB, is ideal for long fishing trips, allowing you to search for the best spots without hassle. It features a comfortable non-slip EVA handle for a secure grip during your fishing endeavours. Additionally, the smooth ceramic guide rings protect your line from wear, enhancing sensitivity and providing a better fishing experience by transferring vibrations directly to your hand.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Durable non-slip handle
Smooth ceramic guide rings
High-quality carbon construction
Suitable for various fishing locations
#TOP 9

FISSION 2 Piece Spinning Fishing Rod Range

Red / Black
FISSION 2 Piece Spinning Fishing Rod Range Cover
FISSION - 2 Piece Spinning Fishing Red Rod Range (From 20g up to 80g) - General Use All Round for Sea and Freshwater (2.7m / 8ft 50-80g cw) [12-02270]

The FISSION Spinning Fishing Rod is perfect for both sea and freshwater fishing. It is designed as an all-rounder, making it ideal for starter anglers or as a reliable backup. With options available in 7ft and 8ft lengths, you can choose the right rod for various fishing conditions and target species. The rod features a stylish red gloss finish and an abbreviated EVA handle for comfortable use, providing both good looks and functionality at an affordable price.

What We Like
Versatile for sea and freshwater
Available in multiple lengths
Stylish and affordable design
Comfortable EVA handle

Sougayilang 3M Portable Carbon Fishing Rod

Sougayilang 3M Portable Carbon Fishing Rod Cover
Sougayilang Carp Fishing Rod Carbon Fiber 3M 5 Section Portable Carp Fishing Rod with EVA Comfortable Handle for Saltwater or Freshwater Carp Fishing - 5LH

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod is designed to enhance your fishing experience with its lightweight and durable carbon fibre construction, ensuring strength and toughness when battling large fish. Its high-quality ceramic guide rings reduce friction for smooth, long casts while improving sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest nibble. The ergonomic EVA handle is non-slip and sweat-proof, providing comfort during extended fishing sessions. Additionally, its portable five-section design makes it easy to transport, so you can enjoy fishing wherever you go.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Smooth, long casts
Comfortable, non-slip handle
Portable, easy to transport
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size rod is best for freshwater fishing?

Rods under 6'6” are ideal for trout, panfish, and younger anglers. Longer rods over 7' are popular for some bass fishing techniques such as using swimbaits and crankbaits and longer rods are also the go-to choice for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead.

2. What kind of fishing pole do you need for freshwater fishing?

Based on what you're looking for, you may need one of the following types of freshwater fishing rods: Bait-Casting and Closed-Spin Casting Rods for Still Fishing and Trolling. Carbon-Fiber Fishing Rods for Precise Casting. Fiberglass Fishing Rods for Flexibility that Allow Baits to Pull Further.

3. What is the difference between saltwater rods and freshwater rods?

The main difference between freshwater and saltwater rods is that rods made for saltwater are made of corrosion-resistant materials. Yes, you can use saltwater rods for freshwater and vice versa, but just make sure to rinse and dry your rods off after every trip (especially saltwater trips).

4. How long should a freshwater fishing rod be?

A short (6 feet or less) rod is ideal if you want to make short, accurate casts. When pinpoint accuracy is less critical, a long rod (over 7 feet) is the way to go. Dingy or dirty water and heavy cover are two situations where short-range accuracy is part of the recipe for success, and a shorter rod can really shine.

Editor's Notes

During our freshwater fishing rod research, we found 145 freshwater fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,977 customer reviews through our big data system to write the freshwater fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose freshwater fishing rods with an average price of £28.50.

The freshwater fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of freshwater fishing rods, including Abu Garcia, Mitchell, BERKLEY, RIGGED & READY TRAVEL FISHING, Sougayilang. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 379 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.