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Inshore fishing is a common practice among anglers, regardless of their experience. It is a good way to spend some time fishing with friends, and family or going solo. It also takes less gear and time to start fishing.
So you can get in and out in no time. You simply need an inshore reel, light tackle, and the rod, of course. It takes some time to find the right combinations.
But don’t despair. We will help you with the latter. Here you have the best spinning rods for inshore fishing.
Our Top Picks:
- Best Premium Option: PENN Fishing Battalion II
- Best Overall: St. Croix Rods Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
- Best Budget Option: Ugly Stik® Inshore Select Spinning
Factors to consider when choosing an inshore spinning rod
Knowledge is power when choosing the best inshore fishing rod. Hence, it is important to take some time to gather all the essential information to make an educated decision. Sadly, it might take quite some time. But don’t worry.
We’ve got your back. Here you have everything you might need to get yourself the best inshore spinning rod.
Let’s get started.
Rod Power
Power is among the most relevant attributes of any fishing rod. Also known as weight, it measures how stiff the rod is. There are several distinctive ratings: ultralight, light, medium-light, medium, and so on.
Naturally, ultralight fishing rods bend at the slightest touch. Conversely, heavy rods can handle a hefty amount of weight before bending. So, it is wise to choose the power depending on the fish you are after.
Bear in mind that this doesn’t mean that you can’t use a light pole to catch a large fish. Or a heavy rod to muscle a tiny fish. But it will take greater rod skills to do so. Go for medium or medium-heavy when in doubt.
Rod Action
Action, along with power, tells a lot about the performance of the rod. In this case, action refers to how much of the rod bends. Other anglers know it as how fast the rod gets back to its natural state.
A rod can either be fast if only the top quarter bends. Moderate if it bends around the middle and slow if it bends along its entire length. As you might have guessed, fast-action rods get back to their natural state fairly quickly.
Rod Length
The length of the pole influences maneuverability and casting. For instance, shorter rods are known for being quite maneuverable. Additionally, they are more suitable for casting small lures. In contrast, longer poles are the best option for long casts and bulky lures.
The pole length also helps with weight distribution. Hence, longer poles are more suitable for heavy fish.
A 7′ and 8′ long inshore fishing pole is a good all-rounder. With it, you can cast many lures and cover a wide variety of distances.
Rod Guides
Line guides are responsible for keeping the line aligned with the pole and handling most of the fish’s weight. So, one could say that landing a fish greatly depends on the line guide’s quality. Let’s understand why.
Your fishing line will squeeze through the guides. This can only mean one thing: Friction. Now, this rubbing will wear the line, making it more likely to snap. Hence, guide inserts should be as smooth as physically possible to decrease the friction between the line and the guide.
Furthermore, the line itself has to have a strong yet sensitive build. In other words, it has to handle weight and strain. But it should also transmit vibrations. Stainless steel, aluminum oxide, and Fuji are the most common guide found in inshore spinning rods.
Rod Blank Construction
We’ve talked a great deal about rod construction and features. But we haven’t mentioned the structure of the rod itself until now.
Fiberglass and graphite are the most common materials found on inshore fishing rods. The fish is stronger and tougher than the latter. Fiberglass rods are typically heavier and handle hits and drops better. Graphite, on the other hand, helps in keeping the weight down. Additionally, it is more flexible, making the rod more sensible.
So, which construction is better? Well, if you value sensitivity, flexibility, and lightweight, then carbon fiber rods are a better deal altogether. That’s why most high-end inshore fishing rods have a graphite blank. In contrast, go for a fiberglass pole if you want something that can withstand a great deal of abuse.
Some brands offer composite inshore fishing poles. These are rods that have a mixture of graphite and fiberglass as blank.
Rod Grip
Most anglers often neglect handles. While they don’t have a notorious impact on performance, they are important to some degree. First, a handle should offer a secure and split-free area to hold the rod.
It also has to be comfortable. Lastly, the handle should be large enough to accommodate your hand and take advantage of the leverage effect. EVA foam and cork are the most common materials used here. Neither has a clear edge here. Hence, it all comes down to your personal preference.
Our Reviews: The 10 Best Spinning Rods For Inshore Fishing
In this section, we’ll be discussing the top 10 inshore spinning rods currently available on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, these spinning rods are sure to provide you with a great fishing experience.
Read on to find the perfect inshore spinning rod for your needs!
St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
- Premium quality SCIII carbon with FRS for...
- hard aluminum-oxide guides with...
- fuji dps reel seat with black hoods on spinning...
Features:
- Available lengths: 6’6”, 7’0”, 7’6”, 7’9”, and 7’11”
- Available actions: Fast and moderate
- Available powers: From light to extra heavy
- Single-piece graphite rod
- Weight (Ounces): From 3.9 to 8.6
- Aluminum-oxide guides
- Fuji reel seat
- Split cork handle
The St. Croix Mojo inshore spinning reel is a sight for sore eyes. It has every feature you need for inshore fishing and much more. The downside, however, is that it is not cheap at all. To give you an idea, the most affordable model retails for around 160 bucks.
But let’s talk about the inshore spinning rod itself. It features an SCII carbon blank with a medium modulus. In other words, the frame is durable and powerful without being heavy or unresponsive.
Corrosion buildup is unlike due to the aluminum-oxide guides with black frames. The same goes for the reel seat, which has a black-hooded Fuji construction. Lastly, the cork handles are large and comfortable. The split design gives you more leverage to effortlessly make those long casts from afar. There is a Kigan hook-keeper just above the split cork handles.
Pros:
- Premium marine-proof construction materials
- Frictionless casting
- Superb sensitivity
- Plenty of models to choose from
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
- Cork tends to peel off after some time
PENN Fishing Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod
- PENN BATTALION II 7’ SPINNING ROD: Ultralight,...
- 6-12LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM LIGHT POWER: Extra Fast...
- PROPRIETARY SLC2 CARBON FIBER one-piece rod blank...
Features:
- Available lengths: 7’0”
- Available action: Moderate fast
- Available power: Medium-light
- Single-piece graphite rod
- Weight (Ounces): 4.7
- Split cork handles
- Fuji graphite reel seat
- Fuji Alconite guides
Featuring a similar construction as the St. Croix Mojo inshore spinning reel, we present to you the Battalion II by PENN. Thankfully, this time, we are talking about a rod sitting just beneath the 100 dollars tag.
The single-piece blank is of SLC2 carbon fiber, something that translates into superior sensitivity. The medium-light power is the only problem we find here. It is just enough for medium to small fish. Look elsewhere if you are after larger species.
Cork is the chosen material for the split handles. The size is large enough to accommodate a single hand at a time.
Casting with the PENN Battalion II inshore spinning rod is as smooth as it can be. The Fuji Alconite guides do a superb job at reducing friction and dissipating heat under load.
Pros:
- Great casting experience
- Feather-like weight
- Good sensitivity
- Durable blank
Cons:
- Rather short handles
- Not suitable for large fish
- Fragile tip
Cadence Inshore Spinning Rod
- What You Get From Cadence: Cadence fishing poles...
- Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank: All...
- Ultra-High Quality 30-TON Carbon Fiber Blank: All...
Features:
- Available lengths: 6’0”, 6’6”, and 7’0”
- Available actions: Moderate fast and fast
- Available powers: Light to medium heavy
- Single and 2-piece 30-ton carbon fiber rod
- Two configurations for the handle
- Stainless steel guides with SiC inserts
- Fuji reel seat
Going to a more affordable range, we have the Cadence CR5-30 inshore spinning rod. It features a 30-ton carbon fiber construction. Therefore, durability and power are two things that you can expect from it. It is an ideal rod for inshore species such as speckled trout and redfish.
Cadence offers the CR5-30 with two different handle configurations. The first is a carbon split grip. While it is comfortable, we think that the full cork/EVA composite version is a better option altogether.
The stainless steel guides with SiC have a decent performance in terms of friction reduction. However, they are not as resistant to corrosion as other materials. Thus, remember to rinse the rod with freshwater after using it.
A difference between the CR5-30 and the previous models is that now you can choose between a single piece and a 2-piece rod. So, portability won’t be an issue with this option.
Pros:
- Several models to choose from
- Portable
- Convenient handle configurations
Cons:
- The blank is not as strong as the one found on other, more expensive, rods
- The line guides are not 100% corrosion resistant
PENN Squadron II & III Inshore Spinning Rod
- PENN SQUADRON III 7’ SPINNING ROD: Built for...
- 10-17LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER: Fast action for...
- GRAPHITE COMPOSITE rod blank is among the most...
Features:
- Available lengths: 7’0” and 7’6”
- Available actions: Fast
- Available powers: Light to heavy
- Weight (Ounces): 6.7 to 10.1
- Single and 2-piece composite blank
- EVA foam handles
- Aluminum oxide guides
- Graphite reel seat
The Squadron II and III are another set of affordable inshore spinning rods that offers a lot of value for your money. The carbon and glass fiber composite blank is not the most sensitive. But nothing too extreme.
There are two pole sizes: 7’0” and 7’6”. The larger is better for inshore fishing since you can make longer casts. Plus, you can choose whether you want a single or 2-piece rod. Needless to say, the second option is more suitable if portability is important to you.
You get aluminum oxide guides with either model. They are an exceptional conduit for vibrations. Similarly, both versions come with a strong and sensitive graphite reel seat. Lastly, the oversized EVA foam handle offers plenty of space to move your hands.
Pros:
- Great value for your money
- Smooth line transition
- Comfortable and large handles
Cons:
- Heavy rod
- The sections don’t fit tightly
- Not the most sensitive rod
G. Loomis E6X Inshore Fishing Rod
![Gloomis Fishing E6X 902S Xf Inshore [12760-01]](https://luremefish.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/image.php?url=YUhSMGNITTZMeTl0TG0xbFpHbGhMV0Z0WVhwdmJpNWpiMjB2YVcxaFoyVnpMMGt2TVRGc2QxWk9TM05QVVV3dWFuQm58MTcxMzc4NTg1MQ=)
- E6X 902S XF
- Multi-Taper Design: A series of micro-tapers...
- LURE WEIGHT: 1/4-1/2
Features:
- Available lengths: 6’0’’, 7’0” and 7’6”
- Available actions: Moderate fast, fast and extra-fast
- Available powers: Medium, medium-heavy, and heavy
- Single-piece graphite rod
- Split cork handles
- Fuji reel seat
- Fuji aluminum oxide guides
The G. Loomis E6X packs a lot of premium features. But it comes with a hefty price tag. So feel free to skip this one if you are not willing to spend more than 150 bucks on a single rod.
The rod features a multi-layer high-modulus carbon fiber blank. Although they don’t show the rod’s weight, we found it to be pleasantly light. Something that needs to be said is that the power ratings are off. For instance, the heavy power rod feels more like a medium-heavy, and so on.
The rest of the rod is brilliant in every way. The Fuji aluminum oxide guides decrease friction which increases casting distance. And let me tell you, the G. Loomis E6X inshore spinning rod is perfect for long-range casting.
Pros:
- Premium built
- Perfect for long casts
- Lifetime warranty
- Oversized cork handles
Cons:
- The power rating is off
- Expensive
Ugly Stik Inshore Select Spinning Rod
- UGLY STIK 7’ INSHORE SELECT INSHORE ROD: Extra...
- 8-20LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER: Built tough to...
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Constructed from graphite...
Features:
- Available lengths: 7’0” and 7’6”
- Available action: Fast
- Available powers: Medium and medium-heavy
- Single-piece composite rod
- Weight (Ounces): 7.9 and 8.6
- One-piece stainless steel line guides
- Cork handles
Every angler in the world knows the Ugly Stik line of rods. There is a model for every need, inshore fishing included.
Like all Ugly Stik rods, the Select inshore features a fiberglass blank combined with some carbon fiber. The result is a heavy and nearly indestructible rod. Nevertheless, what you gain in durability, you lose in sensitivity. Still, it is a superb rod, especially for beginners.
The Select inshore spinning rod features the classic one-piece stainless steel guides of the Ugly Stik line. They are strong, unlikely to break, and fairly resistant to corrosion. Make sure to rinse the rod after every use, though.
Lastly, you get a decent cork handle. Nothing fancy. And a graphite reel seat with stainless steel hoods for increased durability.
Pros:
- Long-lasting built
- Strong rod, great for large fish
- A large handle equals more leverage
Cons:
- The fiberglass makes the rod heavy
- Unresponsive rod. Not the best option for small fish
TFO Inshore Spinning Angler Fishing Rod
Features:
- Available length: 7’0”
- Available action: Fast
- Available powers: Medium
- Single-piece graphite rod
- Weight (Ounces): 5.8
- Fuji guides with Fazlite inserts
- Graphite reel seat
- Split cork handle
You might be wary of paying over 150 bucks for an unknown brand rod. But rest assured. The TFO inshore fishing rod is worth every penny.
It has a pleasantly light carbon fiber frame that feels strong to the touch. The medium power and fast action are an ideal combination for most inshore fishing applications. Unlike most carbon fiber rods, the TFO inshore has a light blue body.
The Fuji line guides have Fazlite inlets. The blue rings perfectly match the rod’s body. In case you are wondering, Fazlite is Fuji’s new technology. It offers silk-like smoothness, especially when using a braid. Plus, they are cheaper than Alconite inserts. But they are not as good.
To top it all, the cork handles are quite large and sit at either side of the graphite reel seat.
Pros:
- Good value for your money
- Lighter than most 7′ poles
- Beautiful craftsmanship
- Comes with a hook keeper
Cons:
- Expensive
- Fairly unknown brand
- Mediocre reel seat
Fliblink Inshore Saltwater Fishing Rod
- Sensitive and Solid Carbon Fiber...
- Unique Design--Specialized inshore saltwater rods...
- High-quality Ceramic Guides--Stainless steel...
Features:
- Available lengths: 6’0”, 7’0”, 8′.6”
- Available action: Fast
- Available powers: Medium-heavy, heavy, and extra heavy
- Single and 2-piece rods
- Weight (Ounces): From 10.2 and 16.9
- Stainless Guides with ceramic inlets
- DPS reel seat
- EVA foam handles
If you are looking for an inshore spinning rod for under 50 bucks, then this is your opportunity. The Fiblink inshore features a carbon fiber blank. Despite being graphite, the rod sits on the heavier side. Therefore, it might start feeling a little uncomfortable after some time.
The reel rests in a DPS seat with stainless steel hoods. It might not be the most premium hardware. But it gets the job done. Besides, remember the price range we are moving in.
Stainless steel line guides with ceramic inserts and a golf-like EVA handle make for the rest of the rod. The ceramic rings help to decrease friction and heat. Plus, it increases the rod’s fairly low sensitivity.
Pros:
- Affordable; great for beginners
- Polymer grips enhance slip resistance
- Portable poles
- Great for big fish
Cons:
- Lack of sensitivity
- Extremely heavy for a graphite pole
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rods
- 【KastFlex IM6 Graphite Blanks】 - Fish like a...
- 【Golf Style SuperPolymer Handle 】– Crixus...
- 【Stainless Steel Guides w/Zirconium Oxide...
Features:
- Available lengths: 5’6”, 6’0”, 6’6”, 7’0”, and 7’6”
- Available actions: Moderate fast and fast
- Available powers: From light to heavy
- 2-piece graphite rod
- Stainless steel guides with zirconium oxide rings
- Graphite reel seat
- Super polymer handles
Any fishing guide is not truly completed without a KastKing product. This time, we will talk about the KastKing Crixus rods for inshore fishing.
The breakable pole comprises two IM6 graphite sections. While it is not the most sensible of all rods, it is more than ok for the price. In terms of power, it has plenty of it stored in its backbone, especially for medium-sized fish.
The line guides are not as premium as the ones found in other models. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the Crixus inshore rod retails for less than 50 bucks. Therefore, you must settle with stainless steel with zirconium rings. They keep things smooth. But they are not an ideal conduit for vibrations.
Pros:
- Comes with a hook keeper
- Affordable
- Plenty of models to choose from
- The breakable design makes the rod more portable
Cons:
- Short handles
- The upper quarter is prone to break
St. Croix Avid Inshore Saltwater Spinning Rod
- PREMIUM SCII CARBON CONSTRUCTION: Perfect for...
- INTEGRATED POLY CURVE (IPC) TOOLING TECHNOLOGY:...
- FEATURES: Kigan Master Hand Zero Tangle guides w/...
Features:
- Available lengths: 6’6”, 7’0”, 7’6”, and 8’0”
- Available actions: Fast and moderate
- Available powers: From light to heavy
- Single-piece graphite rod
- Weight (Ounces): From 3.8 to 7.7
- Kigan Master guides with aluminum oxide inserts
- Fuji DPS reel seat
- Split cork handle
Well, it looks like you can’t go wrong with St. Croix’s inshore fishing rods. But this is something to expect given the premium price you have to pay for them.
The signature SCIII graphite makes for the rod’s spine. In addition, the integrated poly curve technology enhances sensitivity and produces smoother bends. Plus, the Kigan Master guides paired with zirconium rings serve as a highway for vibrations. In short, you will feel even the slightest movement.
At either side of the Fuji DPS reel seat, you find a set of grips. The premium cork keeps the rod comfortable after prolonged use. Additionally, the large area increases the leverage effect. Thereby; decreasing the strength needed to land a fish or cast.
Pros:
- Large handle area
- Comfortable rod
- Incredibly light, including the longer poles
- Built with the very best materials
Cons:
- Expensive
Conclusion:
- Premium quality SCIII carbon with FRS for...
- hard aluminum-oxide guides with...
- fuji dps reel seat with black hoods on spinning...
Each of the top 10 inshore spinning rods discussed in this article has its own unique features and benefits. It’s important to choose a rod that fits your personal needs and preferences, taking into account the type of fishing you plan to do and the conditions you’ll be fishing in.
Based on the factors discussed in this article, the best inshore spinning rod for most anglers is the St. Croix Rods Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod.
FAQs
Is everything clear? Don’t worry if it isn’t. We’ve come up with some common questions that people usually have about inshore fishing rods. Here you have them.
What is an inshore fishing rod?
It will be easier to answer what inshore fishing really is. This style involves fishing within a few miles of shore. You will be casting light tackle in water less than 30 feet deep.
Hence, an inshore fishing rod is a pole you use to fish within a few miles of the shore. Typically, such a rod is more suitable for casting light tackle. Plus, it must have corrosion-resistant construction.
What is the best power for inshore fishing?
As you will be casting in relatively shallow water with little to no cover, a medium or medium-heavy rod will get the job done.
And what about the action?
From moderate to extra fast are the wisest options. Here a sensible tip is key. It is the only way to feel those subtle nibbles and movements.
Can I use a freshwater rod for inshore fishing?
Nothing prevents you from doing it. But keep in mind that freshwater rods can’t handle corrosion as well as inshore fishing rods. Hence, try your best to avoid this. Unless you want to be constantly buying new rods.
What’s best for me: a single or a 2-piece rod?
Most people think that breakable poles are not as strong as a single piece, solid blank. It might be true for some cheap models. But some 2-piece fishing rods are equally or more reliable than 1-piece inshore fishing rods.
However, keep in mind that breakable poles do tend to wear more quickly. The bright side is that they are more portable than a single-piece inshore rod. Hence, do go for them if you value easy transport above anything else.
What is the best size rod for inshore fishing?
All you need to know is that long rods are more suitable for long casts. In contrast, shorter poles offer more control over the cast.
As you might know by now, inshore fishing involves fishing near the shore. Hence, long castings are common. Here, anything between 6.5 to 7 feet will get the job done.
