Best Fiberglass Fishing Rod

Fiberglass fishing rods – Buying Guide, Reviews, and Comparison

 

If you are looking for the best fiberglass fishing rod for the money, but you are short on time, we are here to lend you a hand. After assessing the market by looking at what previous users had to say about some of the best-rated models out there, we have concluded that the Berkley Big Game 7′ Medium Heavy is the unit you should consider getting. This rod has a durable fiberglass construction that many anglers like and it includes frames that were made of stainless steel and aluminum oxide inserts. On top of that, the handle of the choice is rubberized and slip-proof. If this device is out of stock at the time you are doing your shopping, we recommend that you take a good look at the SHIMANO FXS 2 Piece as it has also received positive reviews from those who have tried it so far.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

3 Best Fiberglass Fishing Rods (Reviews) in 2023

 

Most of the consumer reports that we have gone through speak highly of the following products as they seem to be able to meet the expectations of anglers looking for good-quality fiberglass rods. If you have the time and haven’t made up your mind on a particular model, maybe you should check them out.

 

 

1. Berkley Big Game Spincasting Fishing Rod

 

If you are looking for a medium heavy rod that is affordable and practical, this might be just what you need. This option features stainless steel guide frames that are durable and it has a fiberglass construction that you are prone to like.

Overall, it measures 7 ‘ and it is made out of two parts that come together easily. This way, you can travel with it easily whenever you decide to take a fishing trip alongside your angler friends. The handle of the choice is also quite practical as it is made of rubber. As a result, you won’t have to worry that it will slip off your hand at the wrong time.

A larger version that measures 7’6″ and a smaller 6’6″ option are also available for those interested. Most buyers that are fans of fishing gear manufactured and sold by Berkley speak highly about this model.

One of the biggest advantages of this product is its lightweight design that makes it effortless to handle by all anglers, regardless of their skill level and/or experience. It works perfectly when it comes to catching sizable fish that put higher pressure on the backbone of the rod.

Pros

This choice is affordable, yet durable as it was manufactured using high-quality materials that can pass the test of time.

Plus, the unit was designed to be used for casting bait for larger fish. So, it is the go-to product for those looking for a powerful rod that they can use in various situations.

This item measures 7 ‘ but the rod is also available in two other sizes that those interested can choose from.

Because it has a two-part design, this device is suitable for those anglers that like compact fishing gear that can be easily traveled with.

Cons

Even though there were numerous buyers who were impressed with the lightweight construction of this model, some said that the item is rather heavy.

Another reviewer noted that there was a mix-up with his order. Instead of receiving the medium heavy choice, he said that he was shipped the medium one.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

2. Shimano FX Series Rod

 

Another two-piece alternative that might also catch your attention is the SHIMANO FXS. This model is described as a medium, fast action rod that is sturdy and reliable. The durability of the unit is certain as it was made using aero glass, a material that is known for its unquestionable backbone.

The choice also includes a locking graphite reel seat and reinforced guides that are made of aluminum oxide. The handle of the unit was made of EVA foam, which makes this rod very comfortable even when used for hours on end. What is more, this product is backed by a one-year warranty policy.

Additionally, it should be stated that this particular rod is available in three different sizes. 5 ft., 6 ft., and 6 ft and 6 inches. All the models have a 2-piece design. Therefore, those interested in can select the one that they believe best suits their needs. Extra technical details that can help you make up your mind between the three sizes are provided by the seller.

This rod is quite versatile as it can be used for river, lake, stream or for saltwater applications.  The option was specially crafted to be easy to handle by fishers regardless of their age or experience.

Pros

If you are in need of a rod that is very versatile and that can be used by children, as well as by adults, this choice might fit your needs.

The unit has a two-piece design and it is available in three distinct sizes so that you can select a model that caters to your needs perfectly.

Moreover, the item is made of high-quality materials that won’t corrode or break easily, which is a plus if you plan on gifting it to a complete novice.

The rod has EVA handles that are very comfortable and that will surely feel nice in your hands no matter how many hours you spend fishing.

Cons

It is a known thing that the products that include EVA handles tend to be not as durable because the foam can break apart after consistent use or improper maintenance.

There was a former buyer who argued that this rod is not medium weight but rather heavyweight.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

3. Eagle Claw Unisex’s Featherlight Fly 4-5 Parab Fishing Rod

 

If you’re in need of a somewhat smaller fly rod, perhaps the Eagle Claw Featherlight might do you good. It’s versatile, made out of good-quality materials, and has been found to offer more than enough value for the money.

Something that has to be added about this choice is that it is not entirely made out of fiberglass as the manufacturing company has added some graphite to the construction. While some anglers argue that this is what made it a tad heftier, the fact is that the combination has managed to increase the sensitivity that you’ll feel when using the pole.

As is the case with some of the other choices we’ve showcased in our selection, this one boasts stainless steel guides and a 2-piece design. It’s reassuring to know that Eagle Claw is backing the product with a one-year warranty, so if you ever feel dissatisfied with what it does for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with customer support.

Pros

As a strong, reliable, and durable alternative, this Eagle Claw unit should be one of those you ought to bear in mind when prospecting the market for a new fiberglass pole.

Because this is a 6-ft 6-in alternative, it’s destined for species that are on the smaller side, but it does the trick under most circumstances and will have you catching more fish.

The guides are made out of stainless steel, which is an indicative in regards to the quality and resilience of the unit.

This two-piece rod seems to be a great alternative for streams and lakes, which is why many owners have reported catching a good deal of panfish with its help.

Cons

Various fishermen and women have complained about the fact that the rod does not come with a carry case as it would have been much appreciated.

The cork handle doesn’t seem to be made out of the best material in the world.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

Buying guide

 

Even if you have taken the time to go through dozens and dozens of the best fiberglass fishing rod reviews, you might not have learned everything there’s to know about such poles. To make things a bit easier, we’ve compiled all the relevant information you ought to take into account in a comprehensive buyer’s guide. Take the time to read the following fiberglass and learn to pick the best fiberglass fly rods available for sale these days.

Freshwater or saltwater

Unlike other anglers, you’ve already made up your mind. You are looking for a good-quality fiberglass rod. So, you needn’t worry about the material that the pole has been made out of. In that case, you might want to know that graphite alternatives are bad choices if you plan to engage in serious ocean fishing as they can’t put up with the abuse of larger fish.

Aside from the actual pole, you need to consider its components and the materials they’ve been constructed of, as well. Ideally, the guides and inserts have to be made out of stainless steel or ceramic in order to offer you the durability you’re probably interested in getting from the product. The rest of the parts also have to be given some thought to, especially if you plan to opt for a multiple-piece rod.

 

Consider your reel

Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced angler, you might be aware of the fact that not all reels work with all rods. Often times, the matter of compatibility needs to be addressed from a different standpoint; the design isn’t all that matters. However, the capabilities of the reel have to be correlated with those of the rod.

For example, a spincast reel works best when employed with a rod of a length ranging from five to six feet. The same rule does not apply in the case of baitcasters as they work best with rods that are eight feet long or more. While the latter can handle heavier and larger fish, the first can’t do the same; spinning reels have some limitations, as do the poles they have to be used with.

 

Rod action and power

The action refers to how much a rod can bend when making a cast. It can be either fast, or slow, but all of this matters less as the action impacts the way one can reel in the fish. Inaccurate reeling is usually a result of the angler’s inexperience, although if the latter uses a fast action rod, it’s understandable. In most cases, beginners prefer moderate action rods as they are good investments.

As for the rod power, it is a good indicative as to the weight that can be handled by the pole. Light power models have to be used for smaller species, whereas heavy ones work best for larger ones.

However, one should be wary of choosing a certain rod strictly because of these factors as everything adds to the overall weight of the pole. With the line, lures, floaters, and everything else, you might find that holding a high-power rod in your hands is cumbersome.

 

How about portability?

Sometimes, it all boils down to the way that the product can serve you. Having and using a one-piece rod isn’t a problem for those who have the space to store it and the means to transport it from home to wherever they are going to use it.

Most anglers prefer a bit of convenience in this sense, though, which is why they’ll choose a model that can be broken down into two or more pieces or that boasts a telescopic design. Keep in mind that sometimes, a unit that has garnered the best fiberglass rod reviews might just as well not be the best one for you.

 

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Berkley TDS762UL

 

Whether you want to catch some panfish, salmon, or trout, it’s very likely that you will be impressed by the quality of this rod. It’s been designed to offer you the benefit of sensitivity and usability as it doesn’t weigh in a lot and won’t be too cumbersome to handle.

What’s more, both the inserts and the guides boasted by this alternative have been made out of stainless steel, which means that the friction will be reduced, to some extent. Also, the split handle is easy to use and will enable you to get a good grip on the whole situation without putting in too much effort.

Because this is a moderate action, ultralight rod, it manages to meet and even exceed the expectations of most anglers. The 7’6” size appears to be quite versatile and will allow you to target a broad array of species, whether you prefer relying on its services for lake or river fishing.

Pros

Having been made out of sturdy materials, the Berkley choice can offer you plenty of durability, thus enabling you to utilize it for many seasons to come.

This ultralight, moderate action rod boasts as many as nine guides and has a length of 7 feet and 6 inches.

The guides and inserts have been constructed of stainless steel, which gives a pointer as to whether or not the unit will last a good deal of time.

The model is both lightweight and sensitive enough for you to feel whenever the fish bites the bait.

Cons

While some owners have argued that this alternative is less affordable than others they might have stumbled upon, the fact of the matter is that the Berkley Trout Series offers plenty of value for the money.

This pole might not be a good choice for anglers who prefer baitcasting instead of spinning.

 

 

 

Shakespeare TSP20

 

If you’re planning to go on a crappie fishing trip, maybe you ought to take a look at the specs of the Shakespeare Wonderpole as it is primarily designed for stationary fishing and will put up with anything you throw at it. It’s both durable and reliable, so it can offer you the performance and reassurance you might have looked for in other poles.

The six-piece 20-ft rod has a portable design as you will encounter no issue when taking it apart and carrying it to your car. In actuality, there have been anglers who have reported that they have noticed that the collapsed size of the pole is just four feet.

As for versatility, it really doesn’t seem to be a reason to worry about as there have been owners who have purchased this Shakespeare model for purposes other than fishing, such as installing a vertical antenna. Given that in both cases, most users say that the quality is excellent, perhaps the product is indeed worth considering.

Pros

Based on what we have found about it, the TSP20 seems to be made with the needs of extreme anglers in mind. Its fiberglass construction is rugged and will prove to be stronger than many of its graphite or carbon fiber counterparts.

It’s far more budget-friendly compared to other models we have seen, so it won’t ruin your budget.

This model can be split up into as many as six pieces, which can offer you the convenience you might require in terms of ease of transportation.

The TSP20 seems to be the perfect choice for stationary fishing although there have been owners who have used it for trolling.

Cons

When it comes to the performance and quality of this pole, there don’t seem to be too many complaints. However, there have been consumers who reported that the smell let out by the rubber grip and end caps is awful.