The Best Trout Fishing Rods in 2021 – Buyer’s Manual

It is difficult to find a good trout fishing rod, given the variety of available fishing rods.

We’ve done the hard work of sifting through hundreds of options and compiled a list of the top 6 rods for trout fishing. Here’s why. Here’s the complete list.

List of the Best Trout Rods

  • Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rods –Best Overall
  • Okuma Celilo Trout Rods –Extended casting
  • St Croix Triumph Spinning RodsHigh Quality
  • Ugly Stik GX2 rodsHigh Durability
  • Fenwicks Eagle Spinning Rods –Different Models
  • Cadence CR7 Spinning RodExtra Fast Action

Our Top Picks

Rod Length Grip Powers
Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rods 4’6″ to 6’6″ Cork Ultra-light to moderate-heavy
Okuma Celilo Trout Rods 4’6″-8’6″ Cork Ultralight and Light
St Croix Triumph Spinning Rods 5′-6″ to 7’6” Cork Ultra-light to moderate-heavy
Ugly Stik GX2 rods 4’8″-7′ EVA Ultra-light to moderate-heavy
Fenwicks Eagle Spinning Rods 5’6″-8′ Cork Ultra-light to moderate-heavy
Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod 5’10” to 6’6″ It all depends on the model Medium-light to moderate-heavy

These are the 6 best rods for trout fishing in 2021

1. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rods: Best Overall


Ugly Stik Elite has a range of rods to suit any type of trout. This is the best spin rod for trout, especially for beginners, because of its clear tip which increases accuracy and sensitivity, so you can feel the lightest bites.

The Elite is made of a mixture of graphite and fiberglass, making it a lightweight fishing rod that can be used for hours without any discomfort. Cork handles provide additional comfort.

You can choose from a range of Elite rods with power that is ultra-light to heavy enough to handle all trout fish. It comes in a variety of lengths, from 4’6″ to 7’6″, with different power combinations. You are certain to find the right combination.

The guides made of stainless steel aren’t the most durable and are susceptible to breaking. They are however easy to replace, which is a bright side.

Pros

  • Different models available with different power and length combinations
  • Configuration 1 or 2 pieces
  • Clear tip
  • Sensitivity is high
  • Durable

Cons

  • Guides are susceptible to breaking

Final Verdict

The combination of fiberglass and graphite makes a fishing rod that is durable, light, and sensitive. Elite’s lightweight and cork handle provide comfort so you can fish for hours without feeling fatigued.

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2. Okuma Celilo Trout Rods –Extended casting


Okuma seems to understand how difficult it can be to find a rod longer than 8′. If you are looking for a longer casting distance, the Okuma Celilo model is your best option. It comes in an 8’6″ length.

The Celilo, which is specifically designed for trout fishing and made of graphite composite, is lightweight. Similar to the Elite, it has a handle made from split cork. We’ve already said that it provides comfort.

You can choose from a range of lengths, starting at 4’6″ up to 6’6″, or the 8’6″ option for extended casting when fishing in larger lakes.

The guides, however, are made of aluminum oxide and last longer than the Elite.

Celilo’s affordability and high-quality material are two of its greatest assets. They also compete with high-end rods at an affordable price.

Keep in mind, however, that this rod was made for trout fish and cannot withstand larger fish.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Lightweight
  • Extended length
  • Rapid action

Cons

  • They are not as durable as other rods
  • It feels a little cheap in the hands

Final Verdict

Celilo’s trout fishing rod is 8’6″, which is more than any other rod. The Celilo 8’6” ultra-light rod is recommended if you are trout fishing in open areas such as lakes and rivers. For river trout fishing, models are as small as 4’6″.

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3. St Croix Triumph Spinning Rods High-Quality

It’s the name that says it all: Triumph means great victory or accomplishment, and we think that’s pretty accurate.

Because it is made of graphite, the St Croix offers high-quality material. It is lightweight and durable. For premium quality, the rod comes with Fuji reel seats with silver-hooded hood.

You can choose from a range of lengths, starting at 5’6″ and going up to 7’6″, for medium-light and medium-heavy power. This will allow you to catch fish and not just trout.

The rod’s cork handle is comfortable and the aluminum oxide guides are durable so you won’t have to worry about it breaking.

However, the downside is that it isn’t really budget-friendly. But you get what your pay for. St Croix Triumph is a rod of high quality that will last a long time.

Pros

  • Rapid action
  • Fuji reel seat with silver hood
  • High-quality materials
  • Sensitivity is high
  • Configuration 1 or 2 pieces

Cons

  • High prices
  • There is not the greatest range of lengths

Final Verdict

It is often worth spending a bit more on a product that will last a long time than purchasing a cheaper option that you would have to replace often. St Croix Triumph is a high-quality product that will last a lifetime. This rod is recommended for experienced anglers, not beginners.

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4. Ugly Stik GX2 Rods – High Durability

For its durability and affordability, the Ugly Stik GX2 spinning fishing rod is one of the most sought-after.

The rod is made of a mixture of fiberglass and graphite. It has a unique durability that is unparalleled by any other fishing rod. The graphite adds stability and balance to the rod.

For added precision, the GX2 comes with a clear tip as well as stainless steel guides.

With its power options of ultralight, light, medium and heavy, the GX2 can be used for all types of trout fish. You can also choose from lengths as low as 4’8″ up to 7′.

Unfortunately, its downside is that EVA foam grips are not as comfortable than cork handles for long periods of time.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • High durability
  • Clear tip
  • Configurations in 1 or 2 pieces

Cons

  • EVA grip
  • There is not the greatest range of lengths

Final Verdict

The fiberglass gives the Ugly Stik GX2 an edge over other rods. The combination of fiberglass and graphite creates a powerful duo that is lightweight, durable, and stable. The GX2 is affordable and made of high-quality materials.

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5. Fenwicks Eagle Spinning Rods- Various Models

All trout fish have different sizes and colors. With its large selection of models, the Fenwicks Eagle can help you choose.

For lightweight and long-lasting durability, the Eagle is made of graphite. The Eagle comes with a cork handle to provide a comfortable grip, and stainless steel guides for precise casting.

This rod’s uniqueness is in its versatility. Its smallest length is 5’6″, making it unsuitable for smaller rivers and lakes. However, the rod’s ultra-light action makes it an ideal fishing rod for trout.

There are models that can handle larger trout than ultra-light.

Pros

  • Ultra-light can increase length up to 8′
  • Configuration 1 or 2 pieces
  • Power options from ultra-light to moderate-heavy

Cons

  • We weren’t as optimistic about its durability.
  • Guides are not strong

Final Verdict

There are many models of the Fenwicks Eagle that will suit your needs. The Fenwicks Eagle is light, durable and has a cork handle. This rod is the only one that can go up to 8 feet in ultra-light. This rod is perfect for trout fishing in open areas, and long casting.

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6. Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod – Extra Fast Action


You don’t have to be a super-light fisherman. Trout fishing is possible even with higher power powers such as medium-light, medium and heavy, which is exactly what the CR7 provides.

The rod is made of 40-ton carbon, which means it is light and sensitive. The higher the carbon tonnage, the lighter and more sensitive the rod will be.

The handle of the rod depends on its model. Each model can have either a split grip or a full grip made from EVA and cork. The rod also includes stainless steel guides and Fuji reel seats for precision and stability.

We like to think there is a pun in the rod’s name CR7, which refers to its ability to come in fast and take extra fast actions.

Pros

  • Sensitivity is high
  • Fast and more rapid actions
  • High-quality
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • A little expensive
  • It doesn’t come in light or ultra-light versions.

Final Verdict

Look no further if you are looking for an action rod that is extremely fast. Cadence CR7 is lightweight, durable, and sensitive thanks to its 40-ton carbon blank. There are a variety of models available, starting at 5’10”, and going up to 7’6″, with different power and action combinations.

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What to look for when buying a rod for trout

There is no one right answer. We cannot simply say that you need a rod with three different types of fish to catch all the trout in your area. We can tell you that there are some things you should consider before buying a trout fishing rod.

1. Rod Power

A light, medium, or ultra-light power is sufficient for trout fishing. You won’t feel the bite from a trout if you go higher than you need. Going lower will cause your rod to break and you could lose both the fish and the rod.

You can avoid this tragedy by knowing what type of trout are in your area, and which power they require to be handled.

2. Length

You can fish up to 6’6″, or any length in between, as the optimum length. You can choose shorter or longer lengths depending upon where you will be fishing. If you like long casting, rods such as Okuma Celilo can be shortened up to 8’6″. Rods such as Ugly Stik are also available in shorter lengths, so you can get it if your fishing is limited.

3. Material

Graphite is well-known for its light weight and durability. This is why it is used in the manufacture of many fishing rods. You can choose one of the Ugly Stik models, which combine graphite and fiberglass, if you want a stronger material.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a trout rod be?

The location you are fishing will determine the length of your rod. It can be difficult to determine the right length for all fishing methods because trout can be found throughout the country.

We recommend that you fish in larger lakes with longer rods. Anything longer than 7’5″ will allow you to cast further. You can also choose a shorter rod length if fishing in smaller areas such as rivers and small lakes.

The average size of a trout-fishing rod should be 6.5 inches. This will allow for most fishing locations and fishing habits.

Which is more useful: A casting rod or a spinning rod?

It is impossible to choose which one is more useful. It all depends on what you use and for what purpose.

Casting rods give you greater control over angles but you will need to learn a lot before you can master their use.

Spinning rods, on the other hand, are easier to use and have a simple design. They are easy to use and won’t cause any backlash or tangling.

What gear do I need for trout fishing?

The rod is obviously the most important thing, but it’s not the only thing. A fishing reel is also necessary to fit your rods. Most likely, you will find rods that come in a combination with a reel that will exactly fit your rod.

Hooks of different sizes will be needed depending on the size and shape of your rod. You’ll also need baits that are either natural or artificial depending on the preference of the trout.

You’ll also need spinners and lures that work well. A fishing line is also necessary. Monofilament lines are better than braided lines, as they can be seen by trout.

Last words

There is no one size fits all when it comes to trout-fishing rods. However, the ideal rod may not be right for everyone. This is why we have discussed our top picks for the best trout fishing rods on the market. Here’s a quick summary of everything we’ve discussed.

The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod is our top choice. The rod comes with a cork handle and is made of a mixture of fiberglass and graphite, which adds a level of durability that graphite cannot match.

The Okuma Celilo Trout Rods came in second place. These rods are specifically designed for trout fishing. Its cork handle makes it easy to use the rod for long days of trout fishing. It also comes in an 8’6 inch ultra-light power fishing fishing rod. This is ideal for trout fishing in open areas because it allows for long casting.

The St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod, which is well-known for its high-quality materials, came in third. The St Croix will last for many years and still look great. It is a bit more expensive than other options, but you get what your pay for.

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