When tarpon fishing, you need to be patient and knowledgeable of these species. Tarpon can be predatory and fussy eaters. They do not always take the bait, so you need a bit of expertise to get this fish. Furthermore, they get startled easily, so a careless angler will startle them and end up without any fish.
A good rod is a plus for a successful fishing experience. A rod that can withstand the fighting power of these fish and still cast precisely doesn’t just come by. It would be best if you had a quality, durable and robust rod. Keep reading and identify some of the best rods for tarpon rods.
Here is the comparison table of top 6 tarpon rods. We have thoroughly researched and picked the best available models in the market. A lot of factors including quality, materials, performance, durability, customer experience were taken into consideration while choosing the rods. If you are in a hurry, you may choose your right rods for tarpon fishing from the table below
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Best Overall  |
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Best Fly Rods For Tarpon Fishing  |
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Budget Friendly  |
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1. PENN Carnage II Boat Spinning Fishing Rod
The PENN carnage II rods are perfect for tarpon fishing. These rods are made of graphite, giving them a lightweight and powerful feel. This lightweight improves the sensitivity of the rod so you can feel every bite.
The new generation rod features an Sls3 blank construction that provides a very thin diameter blank that results in a thinner and smaller rod that is easier to handle. In addition, this rod is made to be used with a braided line since it can take the strain created by these lines.
The rod features a nonslip foregrip and Pacbay aluminum reel seats that ensure the angler’s comfort, while the fuji K guides ensure maximum durability.
Pros
- The rod has a nonslip foregrip.
- It offers a silky smooth and powerful drag system.
- The rod is lightweight and strong
Cons
- The rod is a little expensive
2. Ugly Stik Carbon Casting Fishing Rod
Ugly Stik fishing rods have been available for years and always stand out due to their quality and durable rods. The Ugly Stik Carbon series is no exception. This rod is the lightest Ugly Stik rod you will find with impeccable strength at an affordable price. In addition, its material is 100% graphite, so you can enjoy a lightweight rod with superior strength to withstand Tarpon fish.
It’s lightweight and solid graphite tip help increase the rod’s sensitivity so you can feel every movement of the bait. The rod also features a one-piece stainless steel ugly Tuff guides that maximize the durability of this rod.
You can use this rod with different lines, and it works perfectly in eliminating insert pop-outs, so you have an easy time Tarpon fishing. The Fuji reel seat is also incorporated in the Ugly Stik rod that helps enhance your comfort.
Pros
- This is the lightest rod you will find.
- Ugly Stik is the best budget-friendly rod
- This rod has increased sensitivity
Cons
- The rod feels a little stiff
4. Piscifun Sword Graphite Fly Fishing Rod
The Piscifun sword fly fishing rods are perfect for different anglers since they vary in action and weight. This 9 feet rod comes in four different weights.
4wt-8’6″ delivers slow action, and it works great for smaller fish.
5wt/6wt-9’ delivers medium action and is perfect for beginners.
7wt-9’ delivers medium-fast action.
9wt-9’ delivers fast action.
This rod stands out for its high performance due to its material and gears. It is backed by ceramic stripping guides inserts and chrome guides that ensure this rod’s durability and smooth fly lines’ gliding when Tarpon fishing.
This rod is designed with white dots on the fly rod that helps you align the guides easily and accurately. This rod comes with a four-piece design making it easy to store and carry. Its 3A grade cork handle is comfortable, and it ensures a firm grip. Additionally, this handle improves the sensitivity of the rod, letting you feel even the small bites.
The rod boasts a powerful graphite construction with aluminum reel seat and ceramic steel guides.
The reel seats improve the angler’s comfort. The ceramic insert and chrome guides ensure the durability and smooth gliding of the fly lines.
3. Piscifun Sword Graphite Fly Fishing Rod
The Piscifun sword fly fishing rods are perfect for different anglers since they vary in action and weight. This 9 feet rod comes in four different weights.
4wt-8’6″ delivers slow action, and it works great for smaller fish.
5wt/6wt-9’ delivers medium action and is perfect for beginners.
7wt-9’ delivers medium-fast action.
9wt-9’ delivers fast action.
This rod stands out for its high performance due to its material and gears. It is backed by ceramic stripping guides inserts and chrome guides that ensure this rod’s durability and smooth fly lines’ gliding when Tarpon fishing.
This rod is designed with white dots on the fly rod that helps you align the guides easily and accurately. This rod comes with a four-piece design making it easy to store and carry. Its 3A grade cork handle is comfortable, and it ensures a firm grip. Additionally, this handle improves the sensitivity of the rod, letting you feel even the small bites.
The rod boasts a powerful graphite construction with aluminum reel seat and ceramic steel guides.
The reel seats improve the angler’s comfort. The ceramic insert and chrome guides ensure the durability and smooth gliding of the fly lines.
Pros
- The rod is travel-friendly
- The white dot design helps you align the guides.
- The rod is light and well balanced
Cons
- The tips are not very durable.
4. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
You will never go wrong with an Ugly Stick rod. With this rod, you can deal with the largest fighting fish without worrying about the rod breaking. The Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod is the best overall rod for Tarpon fishing. It features ugly tuff guides that offer maximum durability while eliminating insert pop-outs.
This 7’ rod has a graphite construction giving the rod a lightweight feel and better pulling power. These versatile rods feature the Ht 100 carbon fiber drag washers giving the rod a powerful drag to get your Tarpon fish out of water. Additionally, the rod features convectional reel seats with stainless steel cushioned hoods that improve your overall comfort while fishing.
This rod also comes with EVA grip handles with diamond shrink tape that provides a firm grip and ensures your comfort even after long hours of fishing. The rod also offers maximum sensitivity so that you can feel even the slightest bites.
Pros
- The EVA grip handles ensure all-day comfort.
- The rod is lightweight with incredible pulling power.
- The Ugly tuff guides ensure maximum durability
Cons
- Poor packaging.
5. KastKing Estuary Inshore Saltwater Fishing Rod
The KastKing Estuary fishing rod is the newest series of the KastKing rods. It is made for inshore saltwater fishing and is equipped to fight species like Tarpon, redfish, and Trout.
The rod comes with full-length AAA EVA cork handles equipped with protective end caps that ensure the angler’s comfort. This rod also boasts Kastflex technology blanks reinforced with Nano Resin technology, increasing its strength by about 22% while reducing its weight.
The guides on this rod are the American Tackle microwave Air MW20 guides that are corrosion resistant and compatible with all spinning rds. In addition, these guides deliver line control, distance, and accuracy in casting.
These rods also feature the American Tackle G2 Apex reel seats that give you extra comfort while Tarpon fishing. In addition, you can be confident while tarpon fishing since the U-shaped hook keeper secures the lures and hooks. What’s more, the rod is also protected by an Aluminum butt cap that is also very attractive.
Pros
- Double-coated wraps protect the guides
- The rod is lightweight and sensitive
- It has improved line control distance and accuracy.
Cons
- Its warranty is limited
6. Fenwick HMG Inshore Casting Fishing Rod
This rod is ideal for any freshwater angler looking for a fantastic time in the waters. The strength and power of these rods make it possible for anglers to deal with all fish species. In addition, it can handle fighting and heavier fish species without getting any damages.
The 7’ medium action rod is powered by the 30 Ton graphite blanks that increases the rods’ strength. The reel seat on this rod is the Sea-guide soft-touch alien seat with a positive lock design that enhances added comfort. To improve on the rod’s convenience, there is also the AAA Cork full grip handle that also ensures a firm grip.
Pros
- The carbon-bound blanks ensure additional strength.
- The AAA cork grip handle enhances a firm grip
- The performance is great for its price.
What to look for while choosing a Tarpon Fishing Rod
Price
Price is an essential consideration while making any buying decision. With a Tarpon fishing rod, you should get an affordable rod
Rod components
Components like reel seats, handle, and guides ensure the proper functioning of a rod. While choosing a rod, check on the quality of its components. This will ensure the comfort and durability of the rod.
Weight
Tarpon fishing with a lightweight rod will ensure more success while maintaining your overall comfort. Especially if you fish for long hours, getting a rod that does not tire you will help you enjoy the day.
Sensitivity
When tarpon fishing, you need a sensitive rod so you can feel every movement and bite on the rod. A highly sensitive rod will ensure your success and keep you on your toes.
Transportation and storage
Getting a travel-friendly rod and easy to carry goes a long way in increasing the longevity of the rod. Four-piece or two-piece rods are foldable, making them travel-friendly and easy to store.
Care and Maintenance of Tarpon Fishing Rods
When indulging in tarpon fishing, you need to ensure that your rod is cared for and well maintained. The first step in maintaining a fishing rod is by properly cleaning it after fishing. While cleaning your tarpon rod, use lukewarm water as cloth, vinegar, and mild detergent.
Next, fish with the guides aligned so that you can reduce wear on your rod.
Banging the rod on the boat or other surfaces may result in breakages and other damages. Therefore, avoid hitting since rods are fragile.
Always rub your tarpon rod joints with candle wax and paraffin to reduce friction.
Finally, store the rods vertically on a rod rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of rod do you use for Tarpon Fishing?
When tarpon fishing, you need a strong rod with 50 to 65lb. Also, get a heavy sealed rod that does not corrode in saltwater and has a 50-pound test braided line.
2. Best size fly rod for Tarpon?
Hen fishing in the mangrove where most tarpon fish are found, a 10, 11, or 12 weight rod will work perfectly. This rod delivers a light presentation and has the strength to handle even adult tarpons.
3. What is theBest Action rod for Tarpon?
For tarpon fishing, use a medium-heavy action rod. The medium-heavy action rod provides excellent balance and extra-fast action making your tarpon fishing experience worthwhile.
Final Verdict
Are you looking to raise the bar higher by exploring bigger fish? You do not have to worry anymore; you can easily catch predatory fish like Tarpon with the right equipment and expertise. A good rod goes a long way in ensuring your success and comfort while tarpon fishing. Brands like Ugly stick, Kastking, and Fenwick are built with the strength and power to withstand predatory species like Tarpon.
