If you’re a saltwater inshore fishing fan like me, then you know that saltwater inshore fishing presents its own set of challenges (and opportunities!), requiring specialized gear to tackle the diverse species and conditions found in coastal waters – especially here in Florida and the Gulf Coast. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any angler is your fishing rod. To help you navigate the sea of options, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite top five saltwater inshore fishing rods. This article is a combo with my article on the best saltwater inshore fishing REELS. Together, if you cast with any of these, and you’re sure to hook a big one!
What is “Inshore” Fishing?
Before we get started I’ll clarify that I’m talking about “inshore fishing” as the type of fishing you might do from a boat, kayak, or shore in which the water is 1 to 6 feet deep and you’re generally fishing about some type of structure (mangroves, grass flats, oyster beds, docks, sea wall, etc). So it’s not ‘surf’ fishing from the beach or offshore fishing – both of which would use different gear. For inshore fishing, I prefer a 7 to 7’6″ rod with a light to medium action and pretty light tackle – that may or may not include a bobber/float, small weight, and small-medium hooks. We’re generally targeting things like Redfish, Sea Trout, Snapper, Snook, Mackeral, and the like. These fish are in the 6 to 40 inch range so we’re not talking monsters here, but they are sure a lot of fun to catch!
Now that we’re on the same page, let’s talk about some great RODS for this type of fishing…
St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
The St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod is a top contender for anglers targeting saltwater species in shallow coastal waters and the Mojo 7’6″ Medium/Fast version is a rod I find myself using a lot.
Crafted with premium SCII graphite, this rod offers exceptional strength and sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel even the subtlest of bites. The rod features specialized saltwater-grade components, including corrosion-resistant guides and a durable Fuji DPS reel seat. With models ranging from 7 to 8 feet in length and various power and action options, there’s a Mojo Inshore rod to suit every angler’s preferences and fishing style.
Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
Don’t let the low price fool you. Renowned for its legendary toughness, the Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod is an excellent choice for saltwater inshore fishing enthusiasts on a budget.
Constructed with a combination of fiberglass and graphite, this rod offers unmatched durability, capable of withstanding the rigors of saltwater environments. The rod’s clear tip design provides added sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect even the faintest strikes. Available in lengths ranging from 6 to 7 feet and varying power ratings, the Ugly Stik GX2 offers versatility and performance at an affordable price point. For this rod, I prefer the 7′ medium action rod.
Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod
Engineered for serious inshore anglers, the Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod combines strength, sensitivity, and precision to tackle a wide range of saltwater species. Constructed from a lightweight and durable graphite composite blank, this rod offers exceptional sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect subtle bites and movements. The rod features Fuji aluminum oxide guides and a Fuji reel seat, ensuring reliable performance in harsh saltwater environments. With models available in lengths ranging from 7 to 8 feet and varying power ratings, the Penn Battalion offers versatility and performance for anglers of all skill levels. I’d choose the 7 or 7’6″ rod here.
St Croix Triumph Inshore Spinning Rod
The St. Croix scores another place on my list with theirTriumph Inshore Spinning Rod. Having two of the five best on my list is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and performance. Here again I’m going with the 7’6′ medium/fast as my first choice.
Built with a premium SCII graphite blank, the Triumph offers exceptional sensitivity and responsiveness, allowing anglers to detect even the most subtle strikes. The rod’s Fuji DPS reel seat ensures a secure and comfortable grip, while the corrosion-resistant stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts provide smooth line flow and durability in harsh saltwater environments. With a range of lengths, powers, and actions available, the St. Croix Triumph Inshore Spinning Rod is a versatile option for anglers targeting a variety of saltwater species. Whether you’re casting lures for snook along the mangroves or jigging for flounder in the bay, this rod delivers the performance and reliability you need to succeed on the water.
KastKing Estuary Inshore Saltwater Fishing Rods
The first 4 rods are all winners, but my personal fav and the one I find myself choosing again and again is actually the KastKing Estuary Inshore Saltwater Fishing Rod. This rod has a great feel, it casts FAR, and I’ve caught some of my best fish with this rod!
With a variety of lengths, powers, and actions available, there’s a KastKing Estuary rod to suit every inshore fishing scenario – as with the others, my preference is the 7’6 medium/fast rod.
The KK Estuary Inshore rod offer anglers a winning combination of performance, durability, and value. Crafted with high-quality graphite blanks, these rods provide the perfect blend of sensitivity and strength, allowing anglers to feel even the subtlest of bites while maintaining the power needed to tackle saltwater species. The rod’s stainless steel guides with zirconium oxide rings ensure smooth line flow and minimize friction, while the ergonomic reel seat provides a comfortable and secure grip during long days on the water.
Whether you’re targeting speckled trout in the flats or battling bull redfish in the marshes, the KastKing Estuary Inshore Saltwater Fishing Rods deliver the performance you need to reel in the big ones.
Conclusion:
When it comes to saltwater inshore fishing, selecting the right rod is essential for success on the water. Each of the five rods highlighted in this review offers unique features and benefits to suit different angling preferences and styles. Whether you’re targeting trout in the grass flats or casting a chunk of mullet for redfish along the mangroves, there’s a rod on this list that’s sure to meet your needs. So, grab your gear, hit the water, and get ready to reel in the big ones with me out on the water.
Remember to also see my article on the best saltwater fishing REELS too…