Best Trolling Rods: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

By: FishUSA Staff

January 7, 2025

Trolling rods are designed to handle the unique demands of trolling, offering the strength and proper action needed for dragging lures or bait through the water at varying depths and keeping fish hooked under a lot of pressure. Whether you’re targeting salmon, walleye, musky, crappie, or other species, the right trolling rod can make a significant difference. This guide features the best trolling rods for different applications and provides tips to help you make an informed decision.

Top Picks for the Best Trolling Rods

How to Choose the Best Trolling Rod

Conclusion

Top Picks for the Best Trolling Rods

Best Overall: FishUSA Flagship Trolling Rods

The FishUSA Flagship Trolling Rods deliver exceptional performance and versatility. Made with a 24-ton graphite composite, these rods offer the perfect balance of sensitivity and strength, so you can see light bites, land big fish, and get the most out of your trolling experience. The large variety of powers ensures there is a Flagship Trolling Rod model available for your favorite technique, while the lightweight construction reduces fatigue during long trolling sessions. Whether you’re targeting walleye, salmon, steelhead, musky, or trout, these rods are an excellent all-around choice.

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Best Budget: Okuma Classic Pro GLT Trolling Rods

The Okuma Classic Pro GLT Trolling Rods combine durability and affordability, making them ideal for anglers on a budget. Constructed with a durable fiberglass blank, these rods provide excellent strength for handling large fish. The stainless steel guides and comfortable EVA grips ensure reliable performance in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

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Best Ultralight: Lamiglas Ultra-Light Casting & Trolling Rods

The Lamiglas Ultra-Light Casting & Trolling Rods are perfect for anglers targeting smaller species like trout or kokanee. These ultralight rods offer exceptional sensitivity for detecting subtle bites, while their flexible design allows for precise control of lightweight lures. Despite their delicate feel, these rods are built to handle the rigors of trolling.

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Best for Salmon: G. Loomis GCX Salmon Trolling Rod

The G. Loomis GCX Salmon Trolling Rod is designed specifically for handling the powerful runs of salmon. Featuring high-performance graphite construction, this rod delivers unmatched sensitivity and strength. The moderate action is ideal for trolling heavy lures or bait rigs, while the durable components ensure longevity even in challenging conditions. The variety of models makes this rod eqaully ideal for both 360 trolling in waters of the Pacific Northwest or tackling Great Lakes salmon trolling applications.

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Best for Musky: St. Croix Mojo Musky Trolling Rod

The St. Croix Mojo Musky Trolling Rod has the power necessary to handle the heavy lures needed to troll for musky, as well as landing these beasts quickly. Constructed with SCII graphite, the moderate action but heavy powers of these rods keeps muskies hooked well without sacrificing a strong backbone. The oversized guides and reel seat ensure compatibility with heavy-duty trolling setups.

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Best for Crappie: BnM Fishing Pro Staff Trolling Rod

The BnM Fishing Pro Staff Trolling Rod is perfect for spider rigging or long-lining for crappie. Its lightweight design ensures easy handling, while the sensitive tip detects light bites. The durable construction and moderate action make it versatile enough to handle various trolling techniques for panfish and other small species.

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How to Choose the Best Trolling Rod

Consider Your Target Species

The species you’re targeting determines the rod’s power and action. For smaller fish like crappie or trout, choose ultralight rods with soft tips. For larger species like musky or salmon, opt for rods with heavier power and stronger backbones.

Rod Length

Longer rods (9 to 11 feet) provide better leverage and line control, making them ideal for open water trolling. Shorter rods (6 to 8 feet) offer more control and are better suited for tight spaces or downrigger setups.

Material

Fiberglass rods are durable and forgiving, making them ideal for trolling large lures or heavy lines. Graphite rods are lightweight and sensitive, offering better bite detection. Composite rods combine the benefits of both materials for versatile performance.

Handle Design

Handles made of cork or EVA foam provide a comfortable grip during long fights and fishing sessions. Look for handles that are long enough to offer good leverage and control when battling large fish.

Action and Power

Moderate action rods are ideal for trolling because they provide flexibility to absorb sudden strikes and keep lures moving naturally. Choose the power rating (light, medium, or heavy) based on the size of the fish and the weight of the lures or bait you’re using.

Guides and Reel Seats

Durable guides and reel seats are essential for trolling rods, as they must handle heavy loads and frequent use. Stainless steel or ceramic guides and corrosion-resistant reel seats ensure longevity and reliable performance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right trolling rod can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Whether you’re targeting crappie, salmon, or musky, the options in this guide cater to a wide range of species and techniques. Consider your target species, preferred techniques, and budget to select the perfect trolling rod. With the right equipment, you’ll be well on your way to a successful day on the water!

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