10 Best Saltwater Rods 2025 in the United States

The Penn 7’ Pursuit IV Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a solid choice for saltwater anglers looking for a durable and reliable setup. With a 7-foot length, the rod provides a good balance between control and casting distance. The graphite composite construction offers a lightweight yet strong build, complemented by a size 4000 reel that comes with a smooth gear ratio of 6.2:1, ensuring efficient and hassle-free operation.

The fast action and medium power make it versatile for different kinds of fish, and it handles a line rating of 10-17 pounds well. The EVA handle is comfortable and suitable for both right and left-handed users, adding to its usability. Additionally, the 8 single-piece PENN Dura-Guides are designed to prevent line fraying, making it a dependable option for frequent use. However, at a weight of 0.51 kilograms, it might feel slightly heavy during prolonged fishing sessions for some.

The rod being a 2-piece design also means it’s easier to transport and store. This combo is best suited for adult anglers of all skill levels aiming to catch bass and similar saltwater species.

The PENN 7' Wrath II Fishing Rod and Spinning Reel Combo is designed for versatility, making it a good option for targeting a variety of species like crappie, bass, and catfish in both freshwater and saltwater environments. One of its significant strengths is its corrosion-resistant graphite construction, which makes it lightweight and durable. The graphite composite rod offers good flexibility and strength, while the anodized aluminum spool enhances its longevity.

With a medium-light power and extra-fast action, this rod is suitable for quick strikes and is responsive to light bites, which is ideal for catching smaller fish with finesse techniques. The rod is also equipped with Dura-Guides, known for their toughness and resistance to insert pop outs, ensuring long-lasting use. The reel has a gear ratio of 6.2:1, providing a smooth recovery rate of 35 inches per crank, aided by two shielded stainless steel ball bearings and one instant anti-reverse bearing. This combination ensures smooth operation and reliable performance.

The felt front drag system offers a maximum drag of 12 pounds, making it capable of handling moderate-sized fish. The line rating of 6-12 pounds and lure rating of 1/16-5/8 ounces offer versatility in terms of line and lure selection. However, the product does have some drawbacks. It may not be the best choice for very heavy-duty saltwater fishing due to its medium-light power. The PENN Wrath II is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable, mid-range rod and reel combo that can handle a variety of fishing situations with ease.

The Okuma RA-S-1202MH Rockaway Surf rod is a 12-foot spinning rod made from composite material, making it relatively lightweight at 340 grams while offering durability. This rod features medium-heavy power and moderate action, suitable for handling a variety of fish in saltwater environments. Its line weight capacity ranges from 10 to 25 pounds, and it can handle lure weights up to 4 ounces, making it versatile for surf fishing applications.

The rod is equipped with zirconium inserts, which are compatible with both braid and mono lines, enhancing its flexibility for different fishing styles. The handle is made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), providing a comfortable grip, and the split grip type design aids in balancing the rod better during use. Being a two-piece rod, it is more portable and easier to transport.

However, some users might find the 12-foot length cumbersome if they are not accustomed to handling longer rods. Additionally, the medium-heavy power might not be suitable for very large or very small fish, and the moderate action could limit its sensitivity to some extent. This rod is a good choice for adult anglers looking for a versatile and durable rod for surf fishing.