What Types of Fishing Rods are Best for Saltwater Fishing in Florida?

Angler 360 has the right saltwater fishing rod for you.

The right saltwater fishing rod can make all the difference between a successful catch and a frustrating day. Deepwater anglers must overcome unique challenges, such as tough winds, big waves, powerful currents, and corrosive saltwater. Any one of these factors quickly wears down equipment if it is not specifically made for deepwater fishing.

The best saltwater fishing rods make each cast and reel the best one ever, regardless of the type of bait. Certain rods are tailored to certain techniques. That is why a partner like Angler 360 is so important. Selection and value are important but not as important as the advice we give. We usually base our advice on your skill level, type of fishing, and your budget. Working together, we’ll find the right saltwater fishing rod for you.

Saltwater Fishing Rods Basics

Let’s start with rod length. Shorter rods, perhaps six or seven feet long, give offshore anglers more power. Longer rods (seven feet, nine feet, or even longer) produce longer casting distance and create more leverage.

Rod action refers to how much the rod bends when pressure is applied. Live bait fishing anglers usually prefer fast-action rods, which bend mostly at the tip, providing greater sensitivity and quicker hook sets. Medium-action rods bend more throughout the middle, ensuring the rod is prepared for quick and hard strikes when surf fishing or trolling bait. Slow-action rods bend deep into the blank, making them more suitable for fighting big and powerful fish in deep or open waters.

In terms of rod construction, light rods are made to cast lures into the mangroves for Snook. Heavy rods are better for bigger fish. Additional options include a one-piece rod, known for excellent sensitivity and accuracy, or a two-piece rod, where portability and stronger durability are an advantage.

Each rod is designed with precision for your targeted species, but they are all manufactured in a similar way. Most consist of fiberglass, graphite, or a combination of both. Fiberglass rods are durable and flexible, making them ideal for tough fights. On the other hand, graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, offering better casting accuracy.

Popular Saltwater Fishing Rod Brands

To narrow your search a bit, let’s examine a few of the best-known leaders in saltwater fishing rods.

Inshore anglers should consider the Star Rods Plasma II, which is suited for inshore fishing. This strong and durable, yet lightweight, rod is also a good-looking piece of equipment. G-Loomis’ E6X is also an excellent inshore saltwater fishing rod. A different model, the IMX-PRO, is designed for bigger fish and bigger obstacles.

Bull Bay Rods, a newer name in the saltwater fishing equipment industry, sells quality equipment and also offers an excellent warranty. In direct contrast, Shimano has been around for years, but the company offers some of the most innovative products on the market.

High-end Fenwick rods are very popular among saltwater anglers. Many consider the Elite, HMG, and Eagle lines to be some of the best saltwater fishing rods around.

Penn’s Battalion and Pursuit lines are amongst their most popular, known for their proven performance and affordability. Penn is a staple at nearly every bait and tackle store, as well as retail stores like Walmart.

We also encourage anglers to mix and match. For example, you might use a Penn Conflict paired with a Mojo inshore rod from St Croix.

For more ways to maximize your outdoor experience, contact Angler 360.