Best Shad Fishing Rods of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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Shad fishing is a popular form of angling for those looking to catch this elusive fish. Shad fishing rods are specifically designed for this purpose, with features such as lightweight construction, sensitive tips, and fast action. These rods are perfect for casting light lures and jigs, and their sensitivity allows anglers to feel even the slightest bite. Whether you are an experienced angler or just starting out, shad fishing rods are an excellent choice for targeting this exciting species.

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 Traxx MX2 Spinning Rod for Predatory Fish Cover #TOP 2
Mitchell Traxx MX2 Spinning Rod for Predatory Fish
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Mitchell Adventure II Surf Fishing Rod Cover #TOP 3
Mitchell Adventure II Surf Fishing Rod
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shad 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
#TOP 2

Mitchell Traxx MX2 Spinning Rod for Predatory Fish

Mitchell
1542809
Grey
2.13m | 2-10g
Mitchell Traxx MX2 Spinning Rod for Predatory Fish Cover
Mitchell Traxx MX2 Lure Spinning Rods, Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Predator Fishing, Perch, Zander, Pike, Trout, Unisex, Grey, 2.13m | 2-10g

The Mitchell Traxx MX2 Rod is an excellent choice for anglers targeting predatory fish. Its versatile design allows you to fish for species like perch, zander, pike, and trout with ease. Constructed from good M24 carbon material, this rod is both durable and lightweight, ensuring you can fish for longer without fatigue. The fast blank actions provide quick responsiveness, allowing you to feel even the slightest nibble. Additionally, the sensitive and responsive blanks enhance your overall fishing experience by improving your catch rate.

What We Like
Versatile for various predatory fish
Durable M24 carbon construction
Quick and responsive actions
Lightweight for extended use

Mitchell Adventure II Surf Fishing Rod

Mitchell
1558856
Black / Blue
3.9m | 80-150g
Mitchell Adventure II Surf Fishing Rod Cover
Mitchell Adventure II Tele Surf Rod, Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Allround Fishing, Durable and Strong Glass Composite Surf Fishing Rods, Saltwater Proof, Unisex, Black/Blue, 3.9m | 80-150g

The Mitchell Adventure II Rod is an excellent choice for beginner and junior surf anglers. Its two-piece glass composite construction ensures durability, allowing you to handle powerful casts and fight tough saltwater fish with confidence. The stainless steel guides are saltwater proof, minimising rust and corrosion while providing smoother casts. Additionally, the comfortable EVA handle grips give you better control when reeling in your catch, making your fishing experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Durable glass composite construction
Saltwater-proof stainless steel guides
Comfortable EVA handle grips
Ideal for beginners and juniors
Affordable entry-level option

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

Sougayilang Feeder Rod with Multiple Tips

Black
Sougayilang Feeder Rod with Multiple Tips Cover
Sougayilang Feeder Rod with 3 Tips, Portable Fishing Rod, Spinning, Casting, Travel Rod, Full Assortment, Action Set, Carp, Coarse Rod

The Sougayilang Feeder Rod is designed for versatility and performance. With seamless reel seats and tangle-free guides, you will enjoy better connection and line management while fishing. Made from 30 Ton carbon fibre and featuring AAA-grade cork handles, this rod ensures a comfortable grip and durability. The high-quality Japanese FUJI guides provide superb wear resistance, contributing to a smoother fishing experience. Ideal for various coarse fishing situations, this rod promises to enhance your angling adventures.

What We Like
High performance with durable materials
Portable and travel-friendly design
Responsive with reduced hook pulls
Tangle-free guides for ease of use
Various strength options for versatility

PENN Wrath II Boat Spinning Rod for Sea Fishing

1581618
Assorted
2.13m | 30-50lb
PENN Wrath II Boat Spinning Rod for Sea Fishing Cover
PENN Wrath II Boat Spinning Rod, Fishing Rod, Sea Fishing, Boat Fishing Rods, Sea Bass to Halibut, Made With Strong and Responsive Blanks and Quality Components, Unisex, Assorted, 2.13m | 30-50lb

The PENN Wrath II Rod is designed for serious sea anglers. Its strong and responsive blanks allow you to cast accurately over long distances while easily detecting bites. The k-frame stainless steel guides with titanium oxide inserts enhance performance, ensuring smooth line flow. With options for different weight classes, you can choose the right rod for your specific target species. This high-performance rod delivers excellent value for money, making it a fantastic addition to your fishing gear.

What We Like
Strong and responsive blanks
High-performance k-frame guides
Multiple weight class options
Great value for money

Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod for Trout Fishing

Mitchell
1446208
Black
2.10m| 5-15g
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, 2.10m| 5-15g

The Mitchell Epic Spinning Rod is specifically designed for trout anglers, ensuring that every feature meets your needs while fishing in rivers, streams, and lakes. Its high-performance 30T carbon blank construction provides exceptional sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bites. The enhanced reel seat and grip offer secure and comfortable handling, perfect for long fishing sessions. Plus, the elegant black and gold finish not only enhances its performance but also makes you look stylish on the water.

What We Like
Designed for trout fishing
Excellent sensitivity and precision
Comfortable grip for long sessions
Stylish and elegant design

Sougayilang Carbon Fiber Carp Fishing Rod

Sougayilang Carbon Fiber Carp Fishing 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-3M

The Sougayilang Fishing Rod is crafted from high-quality carbon fibre, making it exceptionally strong yet lightweight at just 3.5LB. This design ensures that you can confidently pursue larger fish without fear of breakage. Its non-slip rubber EVA handle offers comfort during long fishing sessions. Additionally, the rod's portable 6/7 section design makes it convenient for travel, easily fitting into your backpack. The high-quality ceramic guide rings enhance the rod's sensitivity and protect your fishing line, ensuring a smoother experience while fishing.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable design
Comfortable non-slip handle
Durable ceramic guide rings
Strong carbon fibre construction
#TOP 9

Abu Garcia Tormentor Spinning Fishing Rod

1520996
Black
1.83m | 10-30g
Abu Garcia Tormentor Spinning Fishing Rod Cover
Abu Garcia Tormentor Spinning Rod, Fishing Rod, Spinning Rods, Slim Blank, Premium Cork Handle, All-Round Predator Fishing Rod, Unisex, Black, 1.83m | 10-30g

The Abu Garcia Tormentor Rod features a powerful 24T carbon construction, ensuring durability and strength for your fishing adventures. Its slim blanks with semi-progressive action provide excellent sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bites. The quality LTS SIC guides enhance line flow, reducing friction and ensuring smooth casting. Additionally, the premium-grade cork handle offers a comfortable grip, making long fishing sessions more enjoyable. With these features, you can enhance your fishing experience and improve your chances of catching that elusive predator.

What We Like
Durable carbon construction
Sensitive and responsive action
Smooth line flow
Comfortable cork handle

PENN Prevail III LE 212 Boat Fishing Rod

1589205
Assorted
2.10m | 30-50lb
PENN Prevail III LE 212 Boat Fishing Rod Cover
PENN Prevail III LE 212 Boat Rod,Spincasting rods, Sea Fishing Rods, Long-Lasting Durability, Perfect for Boat Fishing for Bass, Cod, Pollack, and More Unisex, Assorted, 2.10m | 30-50lb

The PENN Prevail III Rod is designed to deliver exceptional strength and versatility for sea fishing. Its unique dura-guides enhance durability, ensuring it remains intact even in harsh saltwater environments. You’ll appreciate the easy-to-clean x-shrink tube grip, providing excellent handling, especially in cold and wet conditions. Additionally, the sturdy graphite reel seat keeps your reel secure, giving you confidence while fishing. With three weight classes available, this rod offers impressive power reserves for catching bass, cod, pollack, and more.

What We Like
Durable in saltwater
Excellent grip in wet conditions
Secure reel seat
Versatile weight options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do you use for shad fishing?

The best bait for American shad are small, artificial lures including jigs, spinners, spoons and similar lures. Shiny or brightly colored lures work best, although shad also are known to bite a shiny bare hook, especially attached to a swivel to give it some swaying action.

2. Do you use a weight with a shad?

Shad darts are the common lure used. They can range in weight from 1/64 ounce to 3/4 ounce. The very light darts will need a sinker on the rig to be able to cast them and to get them down in the water column. The heavier darts will probably have enough weight for the river.

3. What size hooks for shad fishing?

Tackle. For smaller elf a 4/0 hook is adequate. When the bigger blue elf are specifically targeted, nothing smaller than a 6/0 will satisfy the experienced angler. To prevent the elf from biting through your nylon trace use 8 – 10 cm of piano or plastic-coated wire between your line and your hook.

Editor's Notes

During our shad fishing rod research, we found 55 shad fishing rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 11,676 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shad fishing rods list. We found that most customers choose shad fishing rods with an average price of £31.63.

The shad fishing rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shad fishing rods, including Abu Garcia, Mitchell, Sougayilang, Penn. 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.