Welcome to our reviews of the Best Bass Fishing Rods Under $200!
Stay right here if you are looking for a new fishing rod for bass. We have reviewed some of the top-rated fishing rods on the market to help you choose the right one for your next trip.
If you are in a hurry:
St. Croix Mojo is the Best Bass Rod Under $200.
- ADVANCED SCIII GRAPHITE CONSTRUCTION: For a serious angler...
- INTEGRATED POLY CURVE (IPC) TOOLING TECHNOLOGY: Eliminates...
- FEATURES: Slim-profile ferrules; Kigan Master Hand 3D guides...
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
First up, here is our list of the top bass fishing rods under $200, $150, $100, and $50.
Our Top 9 Picks
- St. Croix Mojo Bass Casting – Best Bass Rod Under $200
- KastKing Speed Demon Pro – Best Bass Rod Under $150
- Fenwick Eagle Spinning – Best Bass Rod Under $100
- Entsport E Series Casting – Best Bass Rod Under $50
- Okuma Rockaway Surf Spinning – Best for Surf Fishing
- KastKing Perigee II Spinning – Best for Beginners
- Penn Battle II Spinning – Best Combo Under $200
- Abu Garcia Black Max – Best Combo Under $100
- Sougayilang Helios Casting – Best Combo for Beginners
9 Best Bass Fishing Rods Under $200 Reviews
Now, let us move on to the detailed reviews.
1. St. Croix Mojo Bass Casting
- Blank Material: Graphite
- Guides Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Handle Material: Cork
- Warranty Period: 5 Years
St Croix Mojo is one of the most popular fishing rods on the market. It is built with SCIII graphite which makes it lightweight, sensitive, and durable. The IPC tooling technology further improves its strength and sensitivity.
We picked the 6’8″ rod with medium power and fast action to test it out on our inshore fishing trip to California. It is an all-around rod designed for jerkbait but you can use it in most fishing conditions. We paired it with the Shimano Curado K reel. Using this setup, we caught quite a few Sand Bass and Calico Bass weighing up to 8 lbs.
The Kigan Master Hand 3D guides allow the line to flow freely during casting and retrieving. The Fuji ECS reel seat is compatible with most baitcasting reels out there. The cork handle is sensitive and responsive. It’s very comfortable and fits well in the hand.
We are happy to recommend St Croix Mojo to anglers looking for a strong and durable fishing rod. The surprisingly affordable price makes it the Best Bass Fishing Rod Under $200 on the market. We test many fishing rods on every trip, and most rods of this quality come at 3X the price.
2. KastKing Speed Demon Pro
- Blank Material: Composite
- Guides Material: Fuji
- Handle Material: EVA
- Warranty Period: Limited Lifetime
KastKing didn’t hold anything back when crafting Speed Demon Pro rods. The carbon blanks use the Nano Resin technology to improve lifting strength by 30%. Yet is more sensitive and lightweight than earlier models.
The rods come in 15 different styles of length, actions, and power. We suggest you pick the right model as per your specific needs. Any of the models can help you catch big fish with no problem.
We tested the 7’3″ jig/worm medium-power fast-action rod. It is an excellent all-around rod you can use for throwing a variety of baits. We matched it with the KastKing Valiant Eagle reel to catch a 7.8 and a 6.9lb bass. The setup works well with lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits as well as chatterbaits.
The Fuji line guides let you can cast and retrieve smoothly without the lines ever fraying. The Winn grips provide excellent experience and comfort while holding the rod.
We are happy to recommend KastKing Speed Demon Pro if you are looking for the Best Bass Fishing Rod Under $150. It’s a quality rod designed for Bass fishing and does it well. You can use it time and time over without worrying about performance or durability.
3. Fenwick Eagle Spinning
- Blank Material: 24-Ton Carbon
- Guides Material: Stainless Steel
- Handle Material: Cork
- Warranty Period: 5 Years
Fenwick is a premier brand with over 60 years of experience in building rods that stand the test of time. The Fenwick Eagle is a 2-piece fishing rod suitable for novice as well as experienced anglers.
We tested the 6’6” medium-power rod as part of our reviews. We matched it with Pflueger President XT and a 12lb test. You can use this setup for targeting a variety of fish. It has enough backbone for bass yet it is light enough for panfish.
We were able to catch many 6-10 lbs bass using this rod. The graphite blank and stainless steel guides make it so sensitive that you feel every bite. But it has enough strength to reel in even big fish with ease. It feels sturdy and balanced thanks to the cork and TAC grips.
Fenwick uses the newest and most innovative materials seen in the market today. We suggest Fenwick Eagle to any angler looking for the Best Bass Fishing Rod Under $100. It is comparable to high-end rods on the market but comes at an extremely affordable price.
4. Entsport E Series Casting
- Blank Material: 24-Ton Carbon
- Guides Material: Corrosion Resistant
- Handle Material: EVA
- Warranty Period: 1 Year
Entsport E Series is a 2-piece 7-feet casting rod constructed from 24-ton carbon fiber. It comes with two different power tips medium and medium heavy. It is like getting two different rods in one so it is a good pick for beginners who may not be sure what power rod to get.
The carbon fiber construction makes the rod lightweight and sensitive. Although the rod looks sleek, it has a solid backbone. We used it to throw small to medium size baits for targeting bass. It also handles spinnerbaits, cranks, and worms quite well. We were able to catch quite a few largemouth bass up to 5 lbs easily with this rod.
The Finesse series guides reduce line friction to improve casting range and sensitivity. The EVA handles help you control the rod better and let you comfortably spend time on the water.
Overall, Entsport E Series is a standard rod that just gets the job done. But, for the price, it is very hard to resist. It is the Best Bass Fishing Rod Under $50 as per our reviews. If you visit any online marketplace, you will find hundreds of positive reviews from satisfied customers.
5. Okuma Rockaway Surf Spinning
- Blank Material: Composite
- Guides Material: Stainless Steel
- Handle Material: Cork
- Warranty Period: 1 Year
Okuma Rockaway is a powerful saltwater rod that allows you to get the most out of your surf fishing trip. The lightweight 3-piece design makes it easy to store and carry. You can assemble or disassemble it within minutes.
We tested the 10′ medium-heavy rod during our recent surf fishing trip to target striped bass. We paired it with a Penn Slammer III reel for throwing Lucky Craft 115 lures. The length makes it easy to let you cast far enough.
We used this setup to catch quite a few fish. It has such a solid backbone that we even landed a monster 30″ striped bass. The rod feels very well balanced in hand. It feels so solid, you will get motivated to hit the water more often.
Overall, Okuma Rockaway is one of the Best Surf Fishing Rods as per our reviews. The rod breaks down into 3 pieces so you can easily store it under your vehicle’s seat or trunk. Just pull over to the side of the road and walk down to that lovely beach to throw a few casts with this rod.
6. KastKing Perigee II Spinning
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Guides Material: Fuji O-Ring
- Handle Material: EVA Foam
- Warranty Period: Limited Lifetime
KastKing Perigee II is a versatile fishing rod suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It comes in 29 different sizes from ultralight to heavy. You can choose a rod that suits your fishing style.
The two-piece rod comes with two tips so you get medium-light power with a medium tip or a medium-power with a medium-heavy tip. In a way, you get two fishing rods in one package. But it may take you a while to get used to the concept.
We tested the 7’4″ heavy power and fast action rod on our recent saltwater jetty fishing trip. We paired it with a 3000-size reel spooled with 300 yards of 10lb Power Pro line. Using this setup, we were able to catch several nice largemouth bass fish with ease.
The 24-ton carbon fiber construction makes it strong, sensitive, and lightweight. The Fuji O-ring line guides keep the lines tangle-free so you can cast and retrieve the line smoothly. The power transition system spreads the power throughout the blank so even a two-piece rod feels like a one-piece.
Overall, we are happy to recommend KastKing Perigee II as the Best Bass Fishing Rod for Beginners. The performance is on par or better than most other rods at this price. But getting two tips in a single rod is extremely helpful for beginners.
7. PENN Battle II Spinning
- Blank Material: Composite
- Guides Material: Aluminum Oxide
- Handle Material: Cork
- Warranty Period: 1 Year
Penn Battle II comes with a top-rated spinning rod and reel for Bass anglers. We like the high quality of materials used in construction. Carbon fiber is always a good choice for rods as it gives you an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
The spinning reel sports a full metal body, side plate, and rotor. The HT-100 carbon fiber drag system provides a smooth and powerful drag. The drag washers come treated with grease to deliver great performance out of the box.
The reel features 5 stainless steel ball bearings and an instant anti-reverse bearing. The gears are smooth. The braid-ready Superline spool has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity.
Overall, PENN Battle II is the Best Bass Fishing Combo Under $200 on the market. All the components are well made. But, it’s the attention to detail that makes it an excellent pick.
For instance, you often experience pullbacks with other reels, but Penn solves this using an instant anti-reverse bearing. With such great features, you can’t go wrong with this bass fishing rod and reel.
8. Abu Garcia Black Max
- Blank Material: Graphite
- Guides Material: Stainless Steel
- Handle Material: Polymer
- Warranty Period: 1 Year
Abu Garcia Black Max is one of the Best Bass Fishing Rods and Reels out there on the market. It is a great pick for anglers who use heavy tackle for bass fishing.
The 6’6″ one-piece medium power rod is unlike anything we have ever tested. It feels like the rod is a part of your arm and you can feel even the slightest movement in the water. The 24-ton graphite rod is lightweight and sensitive.
But the sensitivity comes with a trade-off in strength as it’s not a unibody design. The stainless steel guides allow the line to come closer to the rod. It enhances the responsiveness of the fishing rod.
The reel comes with a graphite frame and side plates. It has 4 stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing for smooth casts. The 6.4:1 gear ratio provides a smooth drag.
Abu Garcia Black Max is the Best Bass Fishing Combo Under $100 as per our reviews. The rod has great handling and responsiveness. The reel design is excellent. The spool runs smooth and you never experience any binding in the gears.
9. Sougayilang Helios Casting
- Blank Material: Carbon Fiber
- Guides Material: Ceramic
- Handle Material: EVA
- Warranty Period: 1 Year
Sougayilang Helios is a specially designed combo that comes with everything you need to get started with Bass fishing. The full kit includes a casting rod, reel, fishing lures, a carrying bag, and 110 yards of line.
The carbon fiber rod is strong enough to resist extreme shocks during fishing. The baitcasting reel comes with 12+1 ball bearings and an 8.1:1 gear ratio.
We took the 6.89-ft rod to our local lake to test it out. Overall, we were very impressed by its performance. We didn’t land any monster fish but caught a lot of Bass up to 5 lbs on this rod. Thanks to the grip, you can control and handle the rod even in wet conditions.
As per our reviews, Sougayilang Helios is the Best Bass Fishing Combo for Beginners. It is a great pick for anyone looking to get started without spending a ton on equipment. You get almost all the gear you need to start, and you get quite a lot for the price.
Everything comes neatly organized in the bag. Now, you won’t be a pro right away, but it offers enough for an enjoyable fishing experience.
Baitcasting vs Spinning Rods for Bass Fishing
Baitcasting and spinning are the two main types of rods you can choose for bass fishing. Both types of rods are effective and proven for catching bass.
So we suggest you understand their differences and pick one as per your skill, experience, and specific fishing conditions.
Casting Distance and Accuracy
Baitcasting rods are generally better for long casts and accurate placement. They allow for more control over the cast, which can result in greater accuracy and distance. So if you plan to fish in open water, such as a large lake, we suggest you pick a baitcasting rod to target specific spots.
Spinning rods are generally better for shorter casts. So if you plan to fish in smaller bodies of water, such as ponds or streams, then pick a spinning rod to fish in tight spaces.
Lures and Baits
Baitcasting rods are great for throwing heavier lures and baits, such as crankbaits. They are designed to provide greater power and control when retrieving heavier lures. So if you plan to go after larger bass or fish in heavy cover, then we suggest you pick a baitcasting rod.
Spinning rods are better for throwing lightweight lures and baits, such as soft plastics or small spinners. They are designed for smooth and delicate presentations. So if you planning to go after smaller bass or finesse fishing, then we suggest you choose a spinning rod.
Line Weight
Baitcasting rods are designed for handling heavier lines and braids. So if you’re planning to fish in heavy cover or deeper waters, then a baitcasting rod will be a better option.
Spinning rods are designed for handling lighter monofilament and fluorocarbon lines. They are a good choice for finesse fishing or targeting smaller bass. So if you’re planning to go after smaller bass, then we suggest you pick a spinning rod.
Ease of Use
Spinning rods are generally easier to use than baitcasting rods. They are a good choice for beginners due to the relatively shorter learning curve. So a spinning rod may be a better choice if you’re new or just getting started.
Baitcasting rods need more skill and practice. But they offer greater control once you get the hang of it. So if you’re an experienced angler, then we suggest you pick a baitcasting rod for more control. You can also check out our pick of the Best Baitcasting Reel Under 200 if you need a reel for your new baitcasting rod.
How to Choose the Right Bass Fishing Rod
Bass fishing is an exciting sport that requires the right equipment to be successful. As the fishing rod is a crucial piece, you must consider factors like rod power, action, length, construction, reel seat, and budget while choosing one.
Consider the Rod Action
Rod Action indicates where a rod bends or how easy it is for the tip of the rod to bend. Sensitivity is the key for bass anglers since you need to feel the initial nibble.
- Fast-action rods bend mostly in the top third of the rod, providing more sensitivity and a quicker hookset.
- Medium-action rods bend in the top half of the rod and offer a balance of power and sensitivity to handle various fish species and lure sizes.
- Slow-action rods bend throughout the length of the rod, offering more flexibility and sensitivity, which makes it suitable for beginners and finesse techniques.
So you need a rod that is sensitive and bends easily at the tip. Accordingly, we suggest you must go for a medium or fast-action rod for Bass fishing. The tip will bend more easily at the slightest pull for a better response.
Determine the Rod Power
Power is how much stress and weight your rod can handle. It indicates what type and weight of fish you can target with your rod.
- Ultralight power rods are best for small fish and light lures.
- Light power rods are suitable for small to medium-sized fish and lures.
- Medium power rods are versatile and can handle a range of fish and lures.
- Heavy power rods are for larger fish and heavier lures.
- Extra-heavy power rods are for the biggest fish and heavy-duty techniques such as flipping and pitching.
For a fish like bass, you’ll want a rod with medium to heavy power. It would allow you to handle even big bass in any kind of water.
If you are looking for a lightweight rod, then you can read our reviews of the Best Ultralight Fishing Rods.
Rod Length
The length of your bass fishing rod can affect your casting distance and accuracy. Typically, you will find longer rods provide greater casting distance and accuracy. Whereas, shorter rods will give you more control.
- Short rods (less than 6 feet) are ideal for tight spaces and finesse techniques.
- Medium-length rods (6-7 feet) are versatile and suitable for a range of techniques.
- Long rods (7 feet or longer) provide greater casting distance and leverage to fight big fish.
We suggest most anglers pick a rod between 6-7 feet for bass fishing. Pick a 6 ft rod if you plan to fish in a close range or an area with a heavy cover or near obstacles like trees and rocks. But if you plan to throw longer casts then go for a 7 ft model.
When looking at the length of a rod, you must also consider your personal comfort and ease of use. A rod that’s too long or too short for you can be difficult to use and may affect your ability to cast and control your line.
Construction
The construction and build quality determine the performance and durability of your fishing rod. A well-constructed rod will perform better and last longer. On the other hand, a poorly built rod may span or break even while you are out on the water.
So we suggest you look for rods with solid construction and components such as the blank and line guides. Check for any weak points or flaws in the construction, such as bubbles in the blank, loose guides, or weak joints.
Look for rods designed to withstand the rigors of bass fishing. It will let you fish even in rough conditions without breaking or failing after a few uses.
Reel Seat Material
The reel seat is where you attach your reel to the rod. The reel seat material affects the weight and balance of the rod, as well as its performance under stress.
Aluminum and graphite are typically the two most popular reel seat materials. Both of them are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. You will mostly find aluminum reel seats in more high-end or premium rods. Whereas, graphite is a popular choice for mid-range and budget rods.
Sometimes, a reel seat may not fit certain reel brands or models. So we suggest you always check that the reel seat is compatible with your reel.
You can check out our pick of the Best Spinning Reel for Stripers if you need help picking a reel for bass fishing.
Affordability
The cost of a bass fishing rod can vary greatly depending on its quality, features, and brand. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive rod, here we are trying to find the Best Bass Fishing Rod for the Money.
- Entry-level rods can be purchased for under $100 and are suitable for beginners or occasional anglers.
- Mid-range rods can cost between $100-$200 and provide better performance and durability.
- High-end rods can cost $200-$500 or more, offering top-of-the-line materials and performance.
We suggest beginners or those on a tight budget pick an entry-level rod. It is a good starting point that offers excellent value for the price. You will find most rods in this range made of carbon fiber composite.
If you have some bass fishing experience, then we suggest you look at mid-range rods. Most rods in this range as general all-around rods you can use for different bass fishing techniques. Such rods typically offer a balance between sensitivity, strength, and durability.
High-end Rods rods are great for expert or pro anglers who need top performance from their gear. Our focus today is not on such premium rods as we are looking at rods under $200.
What’s the Best Material for Bass Fishing Rods?
Once you have checked out the rods on our list, you will notice that most rods use graphite, fiberglass, or composite.
Although each has its own pros and cons, a quality rod built with any of these materials will give you enough strength and sensitivity to catch bass with ease.
Graphite
Most of the top-rated fishing rods out there use graphite. Graphite rods are so sensitive and responsive that you can feel even the slightest of bites and nibbles on your bait.
Graphite rods offer excellent casting accuracy. They’re also very lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during long hours on the water. But they are often more expensive than fiberglass or composite rods.
Fiberglass
A fiberglass rod is a good choice if you’re just starting out or prefer a more forgiving rod. It is so strong and durable, you will find it difficult to break the rod even in rough conditions.
It’s also more forgiving, so it is easier for beginners to learn and improve casting techniques.
As fiberglass rods are more affordable than graphite ones, they are a good choice for anglers on a budget. But fiberglass rods are generally heavier, so you may feel fatigued on long trips.
Composite
Composite rods are made from a blend of graphite and fiberglass. They combine the best of both materials – so they’re sensitive like graphite and strong like fiberglass. So they’re a good choice for anglers who are looking for sensitivity as well as durability.
In terms of price, composite rods sit between fiberglass and graphite rods.
Our Verdict
We reviewed some of the Best Bass Fishing Rods Under $200 and our winner is the St. Croix Mojo! It checks off all the essentials of a great bass fishing rod. The rod is tough and reliable but also sensitive and responsive.
KastKing Speed Demon is another rod that we really liked. It comes with medium or heavy power depending on which model you choose. The S-glass and graphite composite make it one of the top rods out there.
In fact, you can pick any of the rods on our list and it will help you get the job done. But let us know if you need any help choosing the right rod as per your specific needs.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our reviews or testing approach. We are happy to answer all the queries that we get.
Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Victor Mays
