Shark fishing is an exhilarating and challenging experience that requires the right equipment to ensure a successful catch. One of the most important pieces of gear for shark fishing is the fishing rod, as it provides the strength and control needed to reel in these massive creatures. With so many different types of shark fishing rods on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best for your needs. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the best rods available, and provide insight into what features you should consider when selecting the perfect rod for your next shark fishing adventure.
Buyers Guide
If you’re in the market for a shark fishing rod, it’s important to choose one that can handle the strength and weight of these massive creatures. Here are some key features to consider when selecting a shark rod for your needs:
- Length: The length of your rod will depend on where you plan to fish. For boat fishing, a shorter rod (around 6-7 feet) may be sufficient. For shore or pier fishing, a longer rod (8-12 feet) may be necessary to cast farther into the water.
- Power: The power of a fishing rod refers to its ability to handle the weight and strength of the fish, and the force needed to reel it in. When it comes to shark fishing, you’ll need a rod with a higher power rating, typically in the heavy or extra-heavy range.
- Action: The action of a fishing rod refers to how much it bends when pressure is applied to the tip. A fast action rod, which bends mainly in the top third of the blank, is generally recommended for shark fishing as it provides more power and control when fighting larger fish.
- Material: Fishing rods can be made from various materials, including graphite, fiberglass, and composite materials. Graphite rods tend to be more lightweight and sensitive, but may be more brittle and prone to breakage. Fiberglass rods are more durable and forgiving but may be heavier and less sensitive. Composite materials offer a balance between sensitivity and durability.
- Handle: The handle of a fishing rod should be comfortable and provide a good grip, especially during extended fishing trips. Most shark fishing rods have a long handle, often made of EVA foam or cork, to provide a comfortable grip and absorb shock when reeling in a large fish.
- Guides: The guides on a fishing rod are the small rings or eyelets that help to guide the fishing line along the rod. For shark fishing, you’ll want to ensure that the guides are strong and able to handle the weight and strength of the fishing line. Look for guides made from durable materials such as stainless steel or ceramic.
- Reel seat: The reel seat is part of the rod where the fishing reel attaches. Make sure the reel seat is sturdy and able to accommodate the size and weight of your chosen reel. Look for a reel seat made from a durable material such as steel or aluminum.
By considering these key features, you can choose the fishing rod for your needs, and enjoy a successful and safe shark fishing experience.
What are Our Top Picks for the Best Shark Fishing Rods?
Penn Squall Lever Drag Conventional Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
PENN
If you want the absolute gold standard for shark fishing rod and reel combo, you should check out the PENN Squall saltwater fishing combo. Built off a heavy-duty graphite blank, this PENN boat rod will be sufficient, no matter the shark fishing situation. You get a size 60 reel made by PENN, which is smooth as butter. Furthermore, the squall reels are known to be bulletproof, and fully capable of taking larger-sized sharks. With this fishing rod combo, you will be able to take on pretty much any shark you want at half the price of professional setups!
- Inner rings inside reel tell you how much line you have left
- 30 LB's of drag puts the stop on most large sharks
- Fantastic priced combo
- Can target most species of shark
- This setup isn't fantastic for casting far distances
- 6' Heavy 1 PC
- Rod rated from 30-80 LB test
- Size 60 Squall
- 30 LBS of drag
- Line Capacity of 50LB/370 yards
PENN Fishing Squadron III Surf Conventional Shark Fishing Rod
PENN
There is a huge relation to PENN as we look deeper into what makes a satisfactory shark rod. This rod comes in at 12' long and is rated heavy, perfect for pulling in those monster sharks. Furthermore, this rod will give you more than enough casting distance due to its enormous length. You will be able to take advantage of its stiff backbone, all while having the casting benefit and leverage of a 12-foot rod! Not to mention you get the even bigger benefit of being made for a conventional style reel; which means you can get a bigger style reel that can handle these awesome predators.
- Very sleek looking rod
- Great grip due to outside heat shrink
- Easy to transport due to it's 2 piece design
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Not rated much past 40lbs in the surf conventional style and if you can find them they sell out fast
- 12' 2p Conventional style rod
- Heavy rated
- 20-40lb
- Heat shrink handle
Fiblink 7' 2-Piece Saltwater Spinning Rod
Fiblink
You can use this Fiblink 8' 2-Piece spinning heavy action rod to fish any type of way, such as soaking bait from the shore to drifting live bait. With more than enough length-to-backbone ratio, you will have a greater advantage of landing quality sharks. Moreover, the heavy action will absorb the brunt of the angry shark. This type of rod would pair great with any size 6000 or larger spinning reel.
- Powerful
- Flexible
- Decent guides
- Not offered in longer lengths
- 8'
- 2 Piece
- Line Weight: 30-50Lb
- Lure Weight: 4-7oz
- Heavy action
- EVA grip
- Rod gimble
Ugly Stik Tiger Elite Spinning 7ft Shark Fishing Rod
Ugly Stik
Ugly Stik's "Tiger Elite" rods are one of the most well-rounded saltwater spinning rods of all time. Shakespeare makes a nearly indestructible rod, which is needed for dealing with the abuse that shark fishing causes on your gear. Furthermore, this 7' 1-Piece heavy action spinning rod comes at such an affordable price, for the quality you get as well. Lastly, this would be a fantastic shark rod for soaking bait from shore, you can even use it for other species and applications, which is the beauty of the Ugly Stik!
- Sensitive tip with enough backbone to land monsters
- Durability to the max
- Absolutely bulletproof
- Can do it all
- Longer sizes of the tiger elite are harder to come by so 7' is standard
- Spinning
- 7' - Heavy - 1pcs
- Stainless steel guides
- EVA foam handle
Fiblink Conventional Shark Fishing Rod 6' Heavy
Fiblink
If you're in the market for a shark fishing rod, look no further than this conventional option that boasts an incredible price-to-quality ratio. At 6 feet long and made of durable materials, this 1-piece heavy rod is specifically designed to tackle even the largest sharks. Its strength and power make it an ideal choice for shark fishing, but its versatility extends far beyond that. Whether you're casting from shore or out on a boat, this rod is capable of handling a variety of saltwater angling scenarios with ease. Despite its impressive capabilities, what really sets this rod apart is its affordability. In fact, its combination of high-quality construction and low price makes it one of the best values on the market. It's rare to find a fishing rod that can deliver such top-notch performance at such an accessible price point.
- Great budget rod
- Quality aluminum parts
- Quality guides
- Rod gimble isn't the greatest rod end they could have added
- Conventional style 6' 1pc
- Heavy- 80-120LBS
- Aluminum alloy reel seat
- One Year Warranty
Fiblink Saltwater 6'6" Heavy Action
Fiblink
One of the standout features of this rod is its rollers, which are designed to work in tandem with up to 80 LB test lines. This means you'll have plenty of pulling power to reel in even the largest sharks. Additionally, the all-aluminum construction ensures that this rod will hold up against the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing, making it a reliable choice for serious anglers. What's more, Fiblink has managed to check all the boxes when it comes to what makes a great shark fishing rod, without breaking the bank. From its sturdy construction to its ability to handle heavy lines and powerful fish, this rod offers everything you need to take on the challenge of shark fishing. But affordability doesn't come at the cost of quality, as evidenced by the one-year warranty that comes with this rod. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected against any unexpected issues.
- Cool design
- Roller tips for more power and leverage
- Insane price point
- Can use as a multi fish type of rod
- Very heavy
- 6'6 -50-80lb rated
- Aluminum parts
- Roller guides
- EVA camo rod handle
- One Year Warranty
Okuma Longitude Surf Fishing Rod 12' Heavy Action
Okuma
One of the great features of this rod is its 2-piece design, which makes it much easier to travel without sacrificing the ideal length of the pole. Whether you're heading to your favorite surf fishing spot or embarking on a more ambitious adventure, this rod is a great option for anglers on the go. Another key advantage of this rod is its high-quality guides, which work together to provide smooth line guiding for efficient and effective casting. Additionally, the comfortable cork grip ensures that you can fish all day long without experiencing any discomfort or fatigue. But that's not all. This rod also boasts a sensitive tip that makes it easier to feel bites, giving you the edge you need to hook your prey quickly and efficiently. With its combination of strength and sensitivity, this surf rod is sure to exceed your expectations.
- Sensitive tip to see bites
- Quality aluminum oxide guides
- Comfortable cork grip rear
- Not available in higher line ratings past 40 LBS
- 12' 2 Piece
- Heavy action
- 20-40LB
Penn Battle III Spinning Reel and 7' Medium Heavy Fishing Rod Combo
PENN
If you're a fan of PENN's legendary fishing equipment, then this rod and reel combo is sure to impress. At 7 feet long and medium-heavy in weight, this spinning rod is the perfect choice for targeting common shark species with ease. Designed with a bulletproof construction, the CNC'd reel is capable of casting smoothly while still providing enough drag-stopping power to handle even the strongest sharks. Its streamlined design means that there's no unnecessary fluff or gimmicks, just the features that matter most when it comes to shark fishing.
- Lightweight rod for easy casting
- Great for smaller sized sharks on light tackle
- Dependable
- Tip of rod is on the thinner side
- Graphite blank
- CNC'd reel
- Textured grip handle
Maintaining and Caring for Your Shark Fishing Rod
Maintaining and caring for your shark fishing rod is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips to keep your shark fishing rod in top condition:
- Rinse your rod with freshwater after each use to remove any salt or debris. This will prevent corrosion and prolong the life of your rod.
- Store your fishing rod in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or damage. Avoid storing your rod in direct sunlight or damp areas.
- Check your rod for any damage or signs of wear before each use. This includes inspecting the guides, reel seat, and rod blank. If you notice any damage, take your rod to a professional for repair or replacement.
- Lubricate the reel seat and guides with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth casting and reeling.
- Avoid putting excessive stress on your rod. While these rods are designed to handle the weight and strength of larger fish, they are not indestructible. Avoid lifting or pulling excessively hard on your rod, as this can cause it to break or become damaged.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your shark fishing rod stays in top condition and performs well for years to come.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Shark Fishing
Now that you have an idea of what to look for when choosing the best shark fishing rod, it’s time to learn some tips and tricks for successful shark fishing. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Bait selection: Sharks are attracted to a variety of baits, including live or dead fish, squid, and chum. The type of bait you use will depend on the species of shark you’re targeting and the location you’re fishing in. It’s important to research the feeding habits of the sharks in your area to choose the best bait.
- Casting techniques: When casting your line, it’s important to make sure you have a strong and smooth cast. Using a long, sweeping motion and releasing the line at the right time can help you cast farther and more accurately. Additionally, you may want to use a baitcasting reel with a high gear ratio for faster and more powerful retrieves.
- Safety precautions: Shark fishing can be a dangerous activity, so it’s important to take proper safety precautions. Always wear a life jacket and make sure your equipment is in good condition before heading out. When handling a shark, be sure to use heavy-duty gloves and avoid touching the gills or eyes. It’s also important to release the shark back into the water quickly and safely after catching it.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to a successful and safe shark fishing experience using the best shark fishing rods.
