If you’re targeting catfish you need a heavy-duty rod that can not only handle the abuse that comes with fighting large trophy fish but also has good control to finesse fish smaller catfish as well. Having the proper gear is extremely important if you want to catch more fish. Here we will take a look at some of the best catfish rods available.
Best Catfish Rods
- Ugly Stik Catfish Casting Fishing Rod
- Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
- Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rods
- Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod
- Shakespeare Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Rod
1. Ugly Stik Catfish Casting Fishing Rod
Product Features
Brand Name: Ugly Stick
Rod Length: 7′
Power: Medium Heavy
Number of Pieces: 1
The Ugly Stick Catfish Casting Rod is our number one spot. This is a medium-heavy rod that measures approximately 7′ long. It’s has a moderate fast action and is made specifically with catfish in mind. The rod tip provides excellent sensitivity, while the rod itself is built to be strong and durable enough for large cats. The stainless steel guides provide smooth flowing lines. Overall this is a pretty sturdy rod at a great price. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly catfish rod, this is our top choice.
2. Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Product Features
Brand Name: Abu Garcia
Rod Length: 7′
Power: Medium Heavy
Number of Pieces: 1
The Abu Garcia Catfish Commando Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is out number two spot. This is a medium heavy powered rod measuring 7′. The rod is balanced and sturdy enough to lifting large catfish. It also has comfortable EVA handles. This one is a rod and reel combo so it also comes with a baitcasting reel that has a smooth 2 ball bearing system reel with powerful drag. This is one of the better values you are gonna find since you get a rod and reel at a pretty great price. The only drawback is the lack of other options.
3. Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rods (2-Piece)
Product Features
Brand Name: Okuma
Rod Length: 7’6″ – 8′
Power: Heavy
Number of Pieces: 2
Our third spot goes to the Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rods. These are heavy powered rods available in a 7 foot 6-inch model, and an 8-foot model. The rods themselves are made from E-glass blanks that provide durability and power. The guides are made from stainless steel and the rod also features an EVA foregrip and cork rear grip for comfort and ease of handling. Overall this is a great rod that excels when you’re targeting large catfish. If you’re going after trophy cats, this might just be the rod for you.
4. Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod
Product Features
Brand Name: Berkley
Rod Length: 8′
Power: Medium-Heavy
Number of Pieces: 2
The Berkley Big Game Spinning Fishing Rod takes our number four spot. This is an 8′ medium heavy power rod. The rod is made from a fiberglass blank that provides strength and flexibility. The ergonomic reel seat and EVA/TAC grip provides comfortable control even in wet weather. Overall there is nothing too fancy about this rod, but it is one of the cheaper one’s you will find that is sufficient enough for catfish. So if you’re looking for an affordable rod, this might be perfect for your needs.
5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Tiger Casting Rod
Product Features
Brand Name: Ugly Stick
Rod Length: 7′
Power: Medium
Number of Pieces: 1
The final spot is the Ugly Stick Shakespeare Tiger Casting Rod. This is a 7′ medium power rod. It is strong while maintaining a good sensitive feel. It has stainless steel guides and comfortable EVA grips. This baitcasting rod is specifically designed for big game. It works great if you’re going after larger fish. Overall a solid rod for a well-respected company .
How To Choose a Catfish Rod
When buying a catfish rod, there are a few different things you want to look for.
- Rod Type
- Power
- Action
- Length
- Construction
Rod Type
Catfish are most often caught using baitcasting gear, however, you can successfully fish them with spinning gear as well. If you’re already comfortable fishing with casting gear, then we would recommend a casting rod. However, if you are somewhat new to fishing, a spinning rod will be much easier to work with.
Power
You will need a rod with a good amount of backbone when fishing catfish. Especially when going after large catfish it can create a lot of force on your rod. That is why you stick with rods that are either medium, medium-heavy, or heavy power rods.
Action
This will ultimately depend on the kind of catfish and lures you are using. If you are using heavy weights and going after larger fish, you probably will want a slower action rod. However, if you’re finesse fishing with lighter baits and fishing for smaller fish, a faster action rod is probably more desired.
Length
You will probably want to use a rod around 7′ to 8′ feet for targeting catfish. This will give you the best performance when it comes to casting, setting your hook, and lifting your fish.
Construction
Rods can either be made of graphite, fiberglass, or a combination of the two. Graphite rods tend to be a little more sensitive and better for shallower waters and smaller fish. Fiberglass is a little bit stronger, which makes it better for larger fish. However, these rods aren’t as sensitive so you may not be able to feel light bites quite as well.
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