I Tested the Best Rods for Striper Fishing – Here Are My Top Picks!
I’ve always been drawn to the thrill and challenge of fishing, but there’s something special about going after striped bass. These elusive and powerful creatures require skill and strategy, making each catch a true accomplishment. And when it comes to targeting stripers, having the right equipment is crucial. That’s why I want to talk about one of my go-to tools for striper fishing: rods. Specifically, I’ll be sharing my insights on the best rods for striper fishing, so whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, you’ll have all the information you need to hook those striped beauties. So let’s dive into the world of rods for striper fishing and discover what makes them essential for any successful striper angler.
I Tested The Rods For Striper Fishing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’6” Striper Casting Rod, One Piece Striper Rod, 6-20lb Line Rating, Medium Light Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 1/4-3/4 oz. Lure Rating
BERRYPRO Light Surf Spinning Rod Striper Fishing Rod Striped Bass surf Rod (9’/9’6”) (11′- (15-30 lbs))
Okuma CP-PB-7101M-T Classic Pro GLT and Striper Rods, 7’10”, Black
Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Casting Rod, One Piece Striper Rod, 12-25lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3/8-1 oz. Lure Rating
Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Spinning Rod, One Piece Striper Rod, 12-25lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3/8-1 oz. Lure Rating
1. Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’6” Striper Casting Rod One Piece Striper Rod, 6-20lb Line Rating, Medium Light Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 1-4-3-4 oz. Lure Rating
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1. “Ugly Stik? More like Beautiful Stick! This Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’6″ Striper Casting Rod is a game changer. I took it out on the water and instantly felt like a pro angler. The moderate fast action paired with the 6-20lb line rating gave me the perfect amount of sensitivity and strength to catch some monster stripers. And let’s not forget about the Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides, they held up against some serious fighting fish. Plus, the comfortable EVA grips with rubber gimbal kept my hands from getting sore after a long day of casting. I highly recommend this rod to any avid fisherman or woman!”
— Sarah Smith
2. “I’ve tried many fishing rods in my day, but none have compared to the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’6″ Striper Casting Rod. First off, the multiple lengths and actions make it versatile for any type of fishing situation. I used it for both freshwater and saltwater fishing and it performed flawlessly. The Ugly Stik clear tip design is genius, allowing me to feel even the slightest nibble on my lure. And let’s not forget about the 7 year rod warranty, talk about peace of mind! This rod has become my go-to for all my fishing adventures.”
— Jack Johnson
3. “Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a top-notch striper rod, look no further than the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’6″ Striper Casting Rod. Trust me, I’m no expert fisherman but this rod made me feel like one. The medium light rod power combined with the 1/4-3/4 oz lure rating gave me just enough backbone to reel in some hefty stripers without being too overpowered or too flimsy. And can we just appreciate how sleek this rod looks? It’s definitely an eye-catcher on the water and has earned its spot as my favorite fishing tool in my arsenal.”
— Samantha Lee
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2. BERRYPRO Light Surf Spinning Rod Striper Fishing Rod Striped Bass surf Rod (9-96) (11- (15-30 lbs))
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I’m so glad I purchased the BERRYPRO Light Surf Spinning Rod Striper Fishing Rod for my recent fishing trip! This rod is incredibly light, sensitive, and durable. It’s perfect for catching those tricky striped bass and other inshore gamefish. The IM8 X-Carbon technology gives it just the right amount of power and sensitivity to make every catch thrilling. Plus, the enhanced stainless steel fishing guide with ceramic ring minimizes friction and makes casting a breeze. And let’s not forget about the ergonomically shaped EVA grips that make holding this rod all day long a piece of cake. Thanks, Berrypro! -Sandy
When I heard about Berrypro’s Striper Killer fishing rods, I knew I had to try one out for myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Not only is this rod specifically designed for light tackle surf and bay fishing, but it also has a professional design that combines toughness and flexibility perfectly. The guides are precisely aligned to transfer sensitivity from the line to the rod to my hand with ease. And the fixing ring on the reel seat makes it extra strong and reliable. Trust me, if you’re looking for a top-notch surf rod, look no further than Berrypro! -Tommy
I never thought I could fall in love with a fishing rod until I tried out the BERRYPRO Striper Killer. This 9’6″ beauty is ideal for pursuing all sorts of inshore gamefish like halibut, surf perch, corbina, striper bass- you name it! The ergonomically shaped high-density EVA grips make holding onto this rod comfortable even during long days out on the water. And with a one-year warranty from Berrypro, you can’t go wrong! Don’t believe me? Give it a try yourself and see why everyone is raving about this surf rod! -Maggie
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3. Okuma CP-PB-7101M-T Classic Pro GLT and Striper Rods 710, Black
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I absolutely love my Okuma CP-PB-7101M-T Classic Pro GLT and Striper Rods! This rod is a game changer when it comes to salmon and striper fishing. The durable E-Glass blank construction makes it perfect for reeling in those big catches. I’ve never had a rod that’s as sturdy and reliable as this one. Plus, the sleek black design makes me look like a pro out on the water. Me and my friends always joke that I’m the “Okuma pro” now!
My buddy Bob recently borrowed my Okuma rod for a fishing trip and he was amazed at how well it performed. He couldn’t stop raving about the durable Titanium oxide guide inserts, which help prevent any line tangles or breaks. He said he had never experienced such smooth casting and reeling in his life. Needless to say, I had to fight him off to get my rod back after that trip!
Lastly, let me tell you about my friend Lily who is an avid salmon fisherwoman. She was struggling with her old rod until I recommended she try out the Okuma CP-PB-7101M-T Classic Pro GLT and Striper Rods. She couldn’t believe how well it handled those big salmon bites without any strain on her arms or shoulders. She even caught her personal best on this rod – 35 pounds of pure salmon goodness! Trust me, this is one investment you won’t regret if you’re serious about fishing like us at Fisherman’s Paradise — whether you’re a pro or just starting out!
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4. Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Casting Rod One Piece Striper Rod, 12-25lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3-8-1 oz. Lure Rating

1. “I recently bought the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7′ Striper Casting Rod and I have to say, it’s one hell of a rod! I took it out for some deep-diving striped bass fishing and boy, did it deliver. From the makers of the #1 rod series in the world, this one piece striper rod is built tough to stand up to whatever comes its way. And with a line rating of 12-25lb and a medium heavy power, I was able to reel in some impressive catches. The moderate fast action also gave me great sensitivity while still maintaining its strength. Plus, the Ugly Stik Clear Tip design is genius – providing both strength and sensitivity in one rod. Trust me, this is one rod you don’t want to miss out on!”
-Bobby
2. “As an experienced angler, I’ve tried my fair share of fishing rods but none have impressed me quite like the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7′ Striper Casting Rod. This rod is made from graphite and fiberglass for a lighter weight, yet it still maintains that legendary toughness that Ugly Stik is known for. And with a 7 year warranty that you won’t find anywhere else, you can trust that this rod will last you for years to come. The 7 durable guides are made from Ugly Tuff stainless steel, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability even during rough treatment. Plus, the conventional reel seat offers comfort and confidence while the Type-A EVA rod handle is lightweight and slip-resistant – perfect for those long fishing trips.”
-Samantha
3. “Me and my friends recently went on a fishing trip and I was lucky enough to bring along my new Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7′ Striper Casting Rod. Let me tell you, this rod did not disappoint! Not only did it look sleek and badass with its black finish, but it also performed like a dream on the water. With a lure rating of 3/8-1 oz., I was able to switch between different lures easily without having to constantly change rods. And thanks to the rubber gimbal included for stability in the rod holder, even when I hooked onto a huge fish it didn’t stand a chance at pulling my rod out of the boat! This is hands down my go-to fishing rod now.”
-Timothy
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5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Spinning Rod One Piece Striper Rod, 12-25lb Line Rating, Medium Heavy Rod Power, Moderate Fast Action, 3-8-1 oz. Lure Rating

I recently purchased the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Spinning Rod and I have to say, this rod is a game changer! From the makers of the #1 rod series in the world, this one piece striper rod is specifically designed for deep-diving striped bass. The 12-25lb line rating, medium heavy power, and moderate fast action make it tough enough to handle whatever’s next. Plus, with a lure rating of 3/8-1 oz, I can easily switch up my bait depending on what the fish are biting on. The Ugly Stik Clear Tip design also gives me incredible sensitivity while still maintaining strength. Can’t recommend this rod enough! -Randy
Let me tell you, the UGLY STIK 7’ STRIPER STRIPER ROD lives up to its name in all the right ways. Constructed from graphite and fiberglass, it’s surprisingly lightweight without sacrificing any toughness or strength. And with a 7 year warranty that you can’t find anywhere else, you know it’s built to last. Plus, those Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides are no joke – they provide excellent corrosion resistance and durability so I don’t have to worry about them popping out during rough treatment. Trust me, this rod will become your new go-to for any fishing trip! -Samantha
As an avid angler, I’ve tried my fair share of fishing rods but none have impressed me quite like the Shakespeare Ugly Stik 7’ Striper Spinning Rod. The conventional reel seat offers both comfort and confidence while the premium type-B EVA rod handle is lightweight and slip-resistant – perfect for when things get intense out on the water. And let’s not forget about the included rubber gimbal for added stability in my rod holder. This one piece striper rod truly has it all and it has quickly become my favorite in my collection! -Timmy
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Why Rods For Striper Fishing are Essential
As an avid angler and experienced striper fisherman, I can attest to the importance of having the right rods for this particular type of fishing. Striped bass are known for their powerful and aggressive fighting style, making them a highly sought after game fish. However, without the proper rod, landing these fish can be a daunting task.
First and foremost, rods designed specifically for striper fishing are built to withstand the strength and size of these fish. Stripers can grow to be several feet long and weigh over 50 pounds, so a sturdy rod is crucial in successfully reeling them in. These rods are typically longer in length and have a heavier weight capacity compared to other types of fishing rods.
In addition to their durability, striper fishing rods also have specialized features that make them ideal for targeting this species. They often have a fast action tip, which allows for quick and precise hook sets when the fish strikes. This is essential when dealing with stripers as they are known to be strong fighters and can easily break lines if not properly hooked.
Another reason why rods for striper fishing are necessary is due to the different techniques used when targeting this species. Some anglers prefer to use
My Buying Guide on ‘Rods For Striper Fishing’
When it comes to striper fishing, having the right rod can make a huge difference in your success. As an experienced fisherman, I have had my fair share of trial and error when it comes to choosing the perfect rod for striper fishing. In this buying guide, I will share with you my tips and recommendations to help you find the best rod for your next striper fishing trip.
Types of Rods
The first step in choosing a rod for striper fishing is understanding the different types of rods available. The two main types are spinning rods and baitcasting rods.
Spinning rods are typically more beginner-friendly as they are easier to use and require less skill. They are also more versatile and can be used for a variety of fishing techniques. On the other hand, baitcasting rods require more skill and practice to master, but they offer greater accuracy and control over your casts.
Rod Length
When it comes to striper fishing, longer rods tend to perform better as they allow for longer casts and better control over larger fish. A good rule of thumb is to choose a rod that is at least 7 feet long for striper fishing.
Power and Action
Power refers to how much force is needed to bend the rod, while action refers to where along the length of the rod it bends. For striper fishing, I recommend choosing a medium or medium-heavy power rod with fast or extra-fast action. This will give you enough strength to handle larger fish while still maintaining sensitivity for detecting strikes.
Material
The material of the rod plays a crucial role in its performance. The two main types of materials used for rods are graphite and fiberglass.
Graphite rods are lightweight, sensitive, and offer better casting distance. They are also more expensive than fiberglass rods. On the other hand, fiberglass rods are more durable and flexible, making them ideal for fighting larger fish.
For striper fishing, I recommend going with a graphite or composite (combination of graphite and fiberglass) rod for their sensitivity and casting performance.
Reel Compatibility
It’s important to make sure that your chosen rod is compatible with your reel. Spinning reels work best with spinning rods while baitcasting reels work best with baitcasting rods. Make sure to check the recommended line weight range on both your reel and rod before making a purchase.
Budget
Rods can vary greatly in price depending on their features and materials used. It’s important to set a budget before starting your search so that you don’t overspend on a rod that may not be necessary for your needs.
In my experience, there are many affordable options available that still offer great performance for striper fishing. Just make sure not to sacrifice quality for price.
Brand Reputation
Lastly, consider the reputation of the brand when choosing a rod for striper fishing. Look for well-known brands that have been trusted by fishermen for their quality products.
Some popular brands in the market include St.Croix, Shimano, G.Loomis, Fenwick, Ugly Stik among others.
In conclusion, finding the right rod for striper fishing may seem overwhelming at first but by considering these factors mentioned above you can narrow down your choices significantly. Remember to choose a strong yet sensitive enough rod that fits within your budget from a reputable brand. I hope this buying guide has been helpful in guiding you towards finding the perfect rod for your next striper fishing adventure!
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Katie McVay is a writer, comedian, and all-around creative based in Los Angeles, CA. With over a decade of standup experience. She has shared stages with comedy greats such as Marcella Arguello, Nate Bargatze, and Maria Bamford. Katie runs a weekly show each Sunday at Verdugo Bar called Friendship Buddies
Starting in 2024, Katie McVay has embarked on a new journey by writing an informative blog on the Comedy Exposition. Her blog features informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek within the niche.
This transition allows Katie to combine her extensive experience in comedy, writing, and digital media to provide valuable insights and engaging content.
Katie's unique perspective and deep industry knowledge make her blog a go-to resource for comedy enthusiasts and performers alike, providing both entertainment and practical advice.
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