Going the Extra Mile: 5 Best Surfcasting Rods for Distance

Last Updated on September 20, 2023

Hey there, sea wolves! Coming at you with another reel-y exciting post! Today, we’re diving head-first into the surf with the salty breeze in our hair and the promise of a tight line in our hearts. Yes, you’ve guessed it, we’re talking surfcasting – that exhilarating battle of wits between angler and aquatic adversary, all from the comfort of the shore.

Nothing gets the adrenaline pumping quite like launching bait into the horizon and waiting for that epic bite. But, as any seasoned surf angler will tell you, the key to a successful day on the beach starts with the right gear.

And what’s the star of the show? You’ve got it, the rod! It’s the Excalibur to your King Arthur, the magic wand to your Harry Potter. So, let’s talk about the best surfcasting rods for distance because who doesn’t want their bait to soar like an eagle?

Table of Contents

Understanding Surfcasting Rods

Before we dive into the reviews, let’s get our hooks into the nitty-gritty of surfcasting rods. What gives one rod the edge over another when it comes to flinging your bait into the blue yonder? Well, it’s all about length, power, action, and the materials used in construction.

For surfcasting, you’ll want a longer rod, typically between 9 and 14 feet. Why so long, you ask? Well, longer rods allow for longer casts, simple as that. It’s like a trebuchet, catapulting your bait out to where the big boys are playing.

Materials matter, too. Graphite is lightweight and sensitive but can snap like a twig under high pressure. Fiberglass is tougher than a sailor’s handshake but isn’t as sensitive. Then you have composite rods, which offer the best of both worlds – sensitivity, and strength. Like a perfectly cooked steak, it’s all about finding the right balance.

Top Surfcasting Rods for Distance

Alright, let’s reel in some of the top surfcasting rods that’ll help you cast farther than a gossip spreads rumors.

TICA UEHA Surf Fishing Rod Series

Best Overall
This one’s a beaut, folks. Its high modulus graphite construction, high-grade titanium oxide guides, and non-slip cork handle to make it a fantastic choice.

The TICA UEHA is like a dependable old truck – not too flashy, but it’ll get you where you need to go. Plus, it’s lightweight and perfect for smaller fish, but don’t be fooled… this rod can also land the big ones!

Pros:

Affordable: One of the more affordable surf fishing rods on the market, yet offers many features found in expensive rods.
Quality Material: High-modulus graphite construction, providing durability, sensitivity, and lightness.
User-Friendly: Non-slip cork handles are comfortable and provide a secure grip.

Cons:

Limited Power: While suitable for smaller fish and larger fish, it may not handle the biggest catches as well as some other rods

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

OKUMA Longitude Surf Graphite Rod

High-End Rod for the Money
OKUMA has outdone itself with this rod. The graphite composite blanks and premium cork handles make it both strong and sensitive. It’s received a lot of love from the community, with users praising its power, castability, and versatility.

It’s like the Swiss Army knife of rods – ready for any situation.

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Pros:

Versatile: A balance of strength and sensitivity makes it suitable for both small and large fish.
Durable: Made of materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Comfortable: The non-slip premium cork handles ensure comfort during use.

Cons:

Guide Issues: Some users reported issues with the guides wearing down the line.
Responsiveness: The rod may not be as responsive or sensitive as some other options

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

BERRYPRO Surf Spinning Rods

Best for Long Casts
If you’re planning on making long casts, you can’t go wrong with the BERRYPRO. It’s like the longbow of surfcasting rods – lightweight, responsive, and with enough power to catch even the big guys.

Its high-density EVA grips will keep your hands comfortable even on the longest fishing trips.

Pros:

Long Casts: These rods are noted for their excellent castability over long distances.
Comfortable: High-density EVA grips provide a comfortable, strong grip.
Good Customer Support: The rods come with a one-year warranty, and customer support has been praised.

Cons:

Grip Preference: While comfortable, some people feel premium cork provides a better grip than EVA foam.

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod

Best for Big Fish
Don’t let the name fool you – this rod is a looker. But more than that, it’s a beast when it comes to landing big fish. Its graphite and fiberglass blend, combined with lightweight EVA grips, make it a tough contender in the surfcasting world.

Pros:

Strength: This rod is designed to handle large fish, offering great power.
Comfort: Lightweight EVA grips provide comfort for long fishing trips.
Affordable: This rod offers a good balance of price and performance.

Cons:

Sensitivity: It’s not the most sensitive rod, which may not suit anglers who rely heavily on feeling bites.

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

OKUMA Tundra Surf Glass

Best for Durability
For those seeking a long-lasting surf spinning rod, the OKUMA Tundra Surf Glass is a strong contender. Its 3-piece construction makes for easy transport, and its fiberglass material offers excellent sensitivity and strength.

This rod is also noted for its durability and suitability for long-distance casting.

Pros:

Durable: This rod is noted for its durability.
Transportable: The 3-piece construction makes it easy to transport.
Good for Long-Distance Casting: It’s well-suited for long-distance casting.

Cons:

Limited Information: There’s limited user feedback available to identify potential cons for this rod.

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

Choosing the Right Surfcasting Rod for Distance

Selecting the perfect surfcasting rod is a lot like picking the right dance partner. It’s got to match your rhythm, follow your lead, and help you deliver an unforgettable performance. But instead of dazzling the dance floor, we’re aiming to make a splash on the shore.

You might also want to read » Are Custom Fishing Rods Worth It?

First, consider your skill level. Are you a newbie nibbler or a seasoned sea-fishing shark? If you’re just starting, something user-friendly like the OKUMA Longitude Surf Graphite Rod is a great choice. It’s versatile, strong, and has a good blend of graphite and fiberglass, making it both durable and sensitive.

But if you’ve had more hooks in the water than you can count, a professional-grade rod like the TICA UEHA Surf Fishing Rod Series could be your best bet. It’s lightweight and has high-grade titanium oxide guides that won’t wear down your fishing line. Plus, it’s long enough for casting a country mile.

Next, think about your target species and fishing conditions. If you’re after the big fish and need a heavy-action rod, the Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Rod is up to the challenge. It’s got the power to reel in the big ones, even if they put up a fight.

If your fishing adventures often take you to corrosive saltwater environments, you’ll need a durable rod that can withstand the elements. The OKUMA Tundra Surf Glass is built like a tank, making it an excellent choice for those briny expeditions.

How Far Can a Surf Rod Cast?

The casting distance of a surf rod can depend on many factors including the length and action of the rod, the weight and type of the line, the aerodynamics of the bait or lure, and, of course, the skill and technique of the angler. However, with the right conditions and equipment, an experienced angler can cast a surf rod up to 100 yards or more.

Tips for Casting Further

Alright, we’ve talked about the tools of the trade, now, let’s dive into the art of casting. Here’s the secret sauce – it’s all in the technique.

First, practice your casting stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly forward. This helps keep your body balanced and adds power to your cast. Next, hold the rod like a handshake, with a firm yet relaxed grip. Remember, it’s a surfcasting rod, not a hand-crushing contest.

When it’s time to cast, use your whole body, not just your arm. Start the cast by turning your body towards the target. As you swing the rod forward, rotate your hips and shoulders. This creates a whipping action that launches your bait into the surf.

Now, about that bait. Don’t skimp on quality. Premium bait can mean the difference between a nibble and a bite. But remember, the best bait in the world won’t help if you can’t cast it far enough. So, consider using a heavier line and weight to add distance to your cast.

And finally, practice, practice, practice! Even the most seasoned anglers didn’t reel in the big ones on their first cast.

Final Words

And there you have it, folks, a crash course in surfcasting for distance. Remember, the right rod can make all the difference between an average day at the shore and a trophy-worthy catch. So, don’t skimp on your surfcasting rod.

Invest in quality, and it’ll pay off with those far-reaching casts that bring in the big fish.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced angler looking to up your game, I hope this guide helps you make a splash on your next surfcasting adventure. Remember, the sea is full of fish, but the real catch is the thrill of the cast!

Happy fishing!