Want to start trout fishing but don’t know where to start? Since you are new to trout fishing, I would recommend you start off with a spinning rod. It is much easier to master, and more cost-effective especially since you are a beginner.
First, beginners should understand the difference between a spinning rod and a fly fishing rod. The most common way to fish for trout is with a spinning rod and reel. A spinning rod and reel are easy to use and are very versatile. They can be used for many different types of fishing, including trout fishing. Another type of rod that can be used for trout fishing is a fly rod. Fly rods are longer and thinner than spinning rods and they are used to cast flies. Fly fishing is a very popular way to fish for trout and it can be very rewarding.
When choosing a trout fishing rod, beginners should consider the following factors:
- Rod length: Trout fishing rods typically range from 6 to 9 feet in length. Shorter rods are more accurate and suitable for smaller streams, while longer rods are better for larger rivers and lakes.
- Power and action: Power refers to the rod’s strength, while action refers to the flexibility of the rod. For trout fishing, a medium power rod with a fast or medium-fast action is ideal.
- Material: Trout fishing rods are typically made of graphite or fiberglass. Graphite rods are more sensitive and lightweight, while fiberglass rods are more durable and forgiving.
- Handle: The handle should be comfortable and provide a good grip. Cork handles are popular for their comfort and durability.
- Reel seat: The reel seat should securely hold the reel in place and be compatible with the type of reel you plan to use.
What Kind of Spinning Trout Rod Is Best for a Beginner?
​If you’re just getting started in the fun world of trout fishing, you’re probably wondering what kind of rod is best for trout. Below are my top 10 picks based on the criteria below.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall – St. Croix Premier Trout Rod
- Best Overall, Runner Up – St. Croix Triumph Trout Rod
- Best Sensitivity – Ugly Stik Elite Trout Rod
- Best Strength – Ugly Stik Gx2 Trout Rod
- Best Budget Option – Okuma Celilo Trout Rod
- Best 2-Piece Rod – Fenwick Eagle Spinning Rod
- Best Budget 2-Piece Rod – Kastking Perigee Ii Trout Rod
- Best Splurge Option – G.Loomis Classic Trout Rod
- Best Durability – Cadence CR5 Spinning Rod
- Best Lightweight – Kastking Calamus Ultra
Best Overall – St. Croix Premier Trout Rod
The St. Croix Premier Trout Rod is a top choice for avid trout fishermen, offering a perfect balance of power and sensitivity. Built with premium quality SCII carbon, this rod features Kigan Master Hand 3D guides with slim, strong aluminum-oxide rings and black frames. The Fuji DPS reel seat with frosted silver hoods and premium-grade cork handle provide comfort and durability. Available in various spinning models, there’s a rod for every freshwater species. The Premier series is known for its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of fishing situations. Its fast action and medium power make it ideal for casting lightweight lures and detecting subtle bites. Overall, the St. Croix Premier Trout Rod is an excellent investment for serious trout anglers seeking a high-quality, reliable rod.
Pros
- Best overall
- Perfect balance of power and sensitivity
- Versatile
Cons
- Some users reported minor issues like loose tip guides or reel seat tightening
Best Overall, Runner Up – St. Croix Triumph Trout Rod
The St. Croix Triumph Trout Rod is an excellent alternative to the Premier series, offering great power and sensitivity at a reasonable price. Constructed with SCII graphite and featuring hard aluminum-oxide guides with black frames, this rod is designed for freshwater fishing. The Fuji DPS reel seat and premium-grade cork handle ensure a comfortable grip and lasting durability. The Triumph series is known for its impressive performance, making it a popular choice among experienced anglers. Its medium power and fast action make it suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, from casting small lures to drifting live bait. The St. Croix Triumph Trout Rod is a solid option for those seeking a high-quality rod without breaking the bank.
Best Sensitivity – Ugly Stik Elite Trout Rod
The Ugly Stik Elite Trout Rod is known for its exceptional sensitivity, making it ideal for detecting subtle bites. With its Ugly Tech construction, a combination of graphite and fiberglass, this rod offers both strength and durability. The Ugly Tuff guides are made from stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance. The cork handle provides a comfortable grip, making it a popular choice among trout fishermen. The Elite series is designed for anglers who demand both sensitivity and strength in their rods. Its medium power and fast action make it suitable for a wide range of fishing situations, from casting small spinners to drifting live bait. The Ugly Stik Elite Trout Rod is a reliable and affordable option for those seeking a high-performance rod with a proven track record.
Best Strength – Ugly Stik Gx2 Trout Rod
The Ugly Stik GX2 Trout Rod is renowned for its strength and durability, thanks to its Ugly Tech construction. This rod features Ugly Tuff guides made from stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance. The clear tip design provides added sensitivity, while the EVA handle ensures a comfortable grip. Despite its slightly heavier weight and older technology, this rod remains a reliable option for trout fishing. The GX2 series is designed for anglers who prioritize strength and durability over sensitivity. Its medium-heavy power and moderate-fast action make it suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, from casting heavy lures to drifting live bait. The Ugly Stik GX2 Trout Rod is a solid choice for those seeking a durable and affordable rod that can withstand the rigors of trout fishing.
Best Budget Option – Okuma Celilo Trout Rod
The Okuma Celilo Trout Rod is an excellent budget option for trout fishermen, offering good performance at an affordable price. Constructed with sensitive graphite composite blanks, this rod features aluminum oxide guide inserts and stainless steel hooded reel seats. The cork handle provides a comfortable grip, making it a popular choice for those looking for a cost-effective trout fishing rod. The Celilo series is designed for anglers who want a reliable rod without spending a fortune. Its medium power and fast action make it suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, from casting small lures to drifting live bait. The Okuma Celilo Trout Rod is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly rod that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Best 2-Piece Rod – Fenwick Eagle Spinning Rod
The Fenwick Eagle Spinning Rod is a top 2-piece rod option for trout fishing, featuring high-quality construction and materials. Built with B2 burled cork handle design, this rod offers a comfortable grip and increased durability. The stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts ensure smooth line flow, while the graphite blank provides sensitivity and power. This rod is slightly more expensive than other options but offers excellent performance. The Eagle series is known for its reliability and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of fishing situations. Its medium power and fast action make it ideal for casting lightweight lures and detecting subtle bites. The Fenwick Eagle Spinning Rod is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality 2-piece rod with a proven track record.
Best Budget 2-Piece Rod – Kastking Perigee Ii Trout Rod
The KastKing Perigee II Trout Rod is a budget-friendly 2-piece rod that offers good performance for the price. Constructed with Toray 24-ton carbon matrix KastFlex technology, this rod provides power and sensitivity. The Fuji O-ring line guides, ergonomic graphite reel seat, and high-density EVA handle ensure a comfortable and durable fishing experience. While not as durable or sensitive as higher-priced options, this rod is a solid choice for budget-conscious anglers. The Perigee II series is designed for anglers who want a reliable rod without spending a fortune. Its medium power and fast action make it suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, from casting small lures to drifting live bait. The KastKing Perigee II Trout Rod is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly rod that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Best Splurge Option – G.Loomis Classic Trout Rod
The G.Loomis Classic Trout Rod is a high-end option for those willing to splurge on their trout fishing gear. Constructed with high-quality materials, this rod offers excellent sensitivity and power. The Fuji Alconite guides and reel seat ensure smooth line flow and a secure reel attachment. The cork handle provides a comfortable grip, making this rod a popular choice among experienced trout fishermen. The Classic series is known for its premium performance and craftsmanship, making it suitable for serious anglers who demand the best. Its medium power and fast action make it ideal for casting lightweight lures and detecting subtle bites. The G.Loomis Classic Trout Rod is a top-of-the-line option for those seeking the ultimate trout fishing experience.
Best Durability – Cadence CR5 Spinning Rod
The Cadence CR5 Trout Rod offers excellent customer service and good performance for the price. Constructed with 30-ton carbon, this rod provides a balance of power, strength, and sensitivity. The stainless steel guides with SiC inserts ensure smooth line flow, while the Fuji reel seat and premium-grade cork handle offer comfort and durability. While not as durable or sensitive as higher-priced options, this rod is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with reliable customer support. The CR5 series is designed for anglers who want a reliable rod without spending a fortune. Its medium power and fast action make it suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, from casting small lures to drifting live bait. The Cadence CR5 Trout Rod is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly rod with excellent customer support.
Best Lightweight – Kastking Calamus Ultra
The KastKing Calamus Ultra-Light Rod is a lightweight option for trout fishermen, offering good performance at an affordable price. Constructed with IM7 micro-polished 30-ton graphite, this rod provides sensitivity and power. The titanium guides with Zirconium inserts ensure smooth line flow, while the ergonomic reel seat and EVA handle offer comfort and durability. Although not as durable or sensitive as higher-priced options, this rod is a popular choice for those seeking a lightweight and cost-effective trout fishing rod. The Calamus series is designed for anglers who prioritize weight and sensitivity. Its light power and fast action make it ideal for casting lightweight lures and detecting subtle bites. The KastKing Calamus Ultra-Light Rod is a great option for those seeking a lightweight rod that doesn’t compromise on performance.