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If you’re looking to land that next big catch, it’s no secret that saltwater is where the big boys are.
However, unless you have a large boat that can take you many miles out into the ocean, you are going to need to fish from the shore.
Inshore fishing has a lot of appeal for the novice or budget-conscious anglers. Not only do you not need a boat, but there’s minimal other equipment you need, too.
You just need one of the best inshore spinning rods to get started.
If you aren’t sure where to look – or what to look for! – don’t worry. This guide can help you get started. Here’s everything you need to know about the best inshore spinning rods.
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The Best Inshore Spinning Rods
Short on time and want to skip the buying guide? These are the best inshore spinning rods available on the market:
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The 5 Best Inshore Spinning Rods Reviews
Here are our choices for the top all-round inshore spinning rods on the market today.
St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod
With cork handles and stainless steel construction, the St. Croix Mojo Inshore Spinning Rod is built to last a lifetime.
This specialty pole is designed with inshore fishing in mind – if you’re looking for a pole to last you an entire fishing career, then this is the rod for you.
Designed specifically for saltwater fishing, this rod has corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel guides. It offers durability, longevity, and best of all, versatility to all anglers.
The rod comes in two different sizes: 7 feet or 7 feet 6 inches. The 7’6” option is perfect for inshore angling as it allows you to cast just far enough without compromising your comfort while fishing.
It is a lightweight rod made out of high-quality graphite. The guides are resist corrosion, making them perfect for saltwater fishing.
The St. Croix Mojo has a comfortable, ergonomic handle made out of premium cork. The rod is a medium-power, fast-action option.
This rod comes with a Fuji DPS reel seat along with hard aluminum-oxide guides. These are also corrosion-resistant.
A great rod for fishing with poppers, jig heads, weighted paddle tails, and more, this rod only weighs about 5 ounces, making it perfect for weekend anglers.
Pros:
- Comfortable cork handle
- Has corrosion-resistant stainless steel guides
- Weighs less than 5 ounces
Cons:
- Some customers complain about St. Croix customer service
Berkley Inshore Spinning Rod
Unless you are brand-new to fishing, you’ve probably heard the name Berkley before. A household name, Berkley offers a superior inshore spinning rod.
This rod offers it all – available in lengths from 6’6” to 7’6”, this rod is unrivaled when it comes to sensitivity and strength.
Plus, the Berkley inshore spinning rod is built with components that are perfectly designed for the rugged saltwater fishing environment.
It has corrosion-resistant Fuji guides with ceramic inserts. There are nine stainless steel guides altogether.
This rod is constructed with 100 percent carbon fiber blank. It has a reel seat that is designed for comfort, reducing fatigue with its ergonomic design.
The handle grip is soft yet textured enough to provide for a good grip. It is completely rubberized.
A fast action rod, the Berkley Inshore Spinning Rod bends at the tip of the rod, allowing you to cast precisely and accurately.
The rod has power ranging from medium-light to medium-heavy. Consider the line size and weight of the lures you will be using to decide which power rating is best for you.
If you are looking for a rod that is durable yet high-performing, look no further than the Berkley Inshore Spinning Rod.
Pros:
- Constructed with 100% carbon fiber blank
- Reel seat is comfortable and ergonomic
- Available in multiple lengths and powers
Cons:
- Can be a bit too heavy duty for some inshore fishing applications
Entsport E Series – Sirius Spinning Rod
The Entsport E Series – Sirius Spinning Rod is another great choice for anglers seeking a rugged option.
This pole is a bit heavy, but it’s still highly portable as it breaks down into two pieces.
Perfect for travel, this 7’ rod has medium-heavy power and is made out of graphite and solid carbon fiber construction.
Maximizing sensitivity while still prioritizing strength, this lightweight rod comes with 6+1 guides made out of stainless steel with ceramic inserts.
You won’t have to worry about your line getting caught up in the guides of this rod. They’re intelligently designed and spaced to allow for line flow without any friction at all.
The reel seats of this rod are ergonomically designed and come with corrosion-resistant hoods.
You won’t have to worry about your fingers getting hurt or sore while you’re fishing with this line.
With an EVA foam grip handle, you’ll be able to fish all day without getting tired.
This spinning rod isn’t just for inshore fishing, either. It can be used in all kinds of settings.
However, because it is built out of corrosion-resistant materials, you’ll find that it is highly functional in a saltwater environment.
A heavy-duty spinning rod for inshore fishing with a rugged reputation to boot, the Etnsprot spinning rod is the perfect choice for travelers – it even comes with a carrying case.
Pros:
- Breaks down into two pieces and comes with a durable carrying case
- Has stainless steel guides
- Made out of corrosion-resistant materials
Cons:
- Somewhat heavy to carry
Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod
The Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod is a top pick by Penn, a leader in fishing equipment for anglers at all levels.
This rod has enough backbone to handle just about any species – plus, it has a super-fast action for precise casting.
Available in lengths ranging from 6’6” to 8’0”, this rod is perfect for saltwater fishing.
The Battalion line of fishing rods from Penn is made out of 100% graphite rod blanks for exceptional sensitivity and strength – you’ll love the lightweight feel of this rod for sure.
To ensure excellent casting distance, the rod has Fuji SV and Y stainless steel frames, plus aluminum oxide inserts.
These inserts work phenomenally well with both monofilament and braided types of lines. You can use this rod for fishing in just about any setting or any kind of fish.
You can purchase this rod in various power ratings, including medium-light, extra-light, medium, and light.
Each type of rod has a Fuji ACS reel seat that is soft to the touch along with ergonomic grips made fully out of cork.
Furthermore, the Battalion line of Inshore Spinning Rods has a unique “E” handle style.
This means that they have rubber gimbals that are durable, soft to the touch, and able to prevent some of the normal aches and pains that come with traditional gimbals, which are made out of metal.
You also won’t have to worry about the gimbals scratching your boat! Now that’s something to write home about.
Best for any type of inshore fishing, you can also use this rod for other settings, too.
It resists salt water damage that tends to happen over time, like corrosion and regular wear and tear, and has all the power you need to bring your fishing to the next level.
With a graphite core and aluminum guides, this rod is rugged and able to withstand the demands of inshore fishing.
Pros:
- Rubber gimbals are comfortable and prevent damage
- Comes in various lengths
- Available in a variety of power ratings
Cons:
- Not the most portable, as a one-piece rod
Okuma Nomad Xpress Inshore Rod
The Okuma Nomad line of fishing rods are designed for people who like to travel on their fishing adventures.
It is strong, possessing all the backbone you need for battling monstrous fish, but it’s also portable – you can take it with you wherever you go, including on airplanes.
A balanced rod, it is 7’ long. It breaks down into three pieces for easy portability and is made out of graphite carbon-fiber blank construction.
The Nomad line of rods by Okuma are unique because they have European Spigot Ferrule connections.
These connections bring together the various species of the rod and make it feel just like a one-piece rod with durability and strength – yet are more portable.
Also, this rod has six aluminum oxide guides that resist corrosion. It has rubber gimbals for a secure mount along with a pipe-style reel seat.
With foam EVA grips that fit your hand with ease, this ergonomic rod will allow you to fish all day in total comfort – even in wet conditions.
A lightweight inshore fishing rod, this spinning rod has a medium-heavy action along with excellent tip sensitivity. It’s perfect for inshore fishing and can be used with a variety of lines and lures.
Pros:
- Comes with a waterproof canvas carrying case and shoulder strap
- Has a three-piece breakdown design
- Built with rubberized gimbals
Cons:
- Blank does not go completely inside joining piece
What to Look for in an Inshore Spinning Rod
The information below will acquaint you with the most important features to look for in an inshore fishing rod.
Length
When you’re shopping for an inshore rod, look for one that is about 7’ to 7’6”.
This rod length hits the sweet spot – not only will it allow you to cast with ease (and cast far!) but it will also be fairly simple to manage.
Plus, it will have all the backbone you need for fighting tough fish!
Action
Action refers to how fast a rod returns to its normal state when its flexed – as well as how much it will flex in general.
A rod that has a slow action will bend throughout the entirety of the rod, while a fast action rod will be stiffer in the rod butt and will only bend in the last few feet.
For inshore fishing, you will want a rod that is moderate-fast to extra-fast.
It can be tough to evaluate the stiffness of a rod without actually holding it in your hands, but a rod with one of these actions is a good place to start.
Related: Best Saltwater Inshore Spinning Reels
Power
A rod’s power rating will tell you how strong it is. Typically, power will include ultra-light, light, medium, medium light, medium-heavy, and heavy.
If you’re doing some inshore fishing, you will want to avoid a rod that is heavy or ultralight. These are too extreme for most species.
Depending on the exact type of fish you are going after, a rod that is somewhere in between should get you by.
Again, you will want to be able to hold the rod in your hand to get a clear picture, but a rod that is of medium power is generally the best for inshore fishing.
See Also: 5 Top Rod & Reel Combos for Bass
Line and Lure Weight
It can be tough to evaluate the quality of a rod for inshore fishing based on its line and lure weight, but it’s necessary.
Both the line and lure weight rating of a rod will give you a good idea of the rod’s power.
In general, you’ll want to spool inshore rods with 15 to 30 lb braid. Make sure the rod you select can handle that size line.
Also, lure weight can give you an idea of how far the rod can cast, as well as a picture of its potential casting performance.
Why You Need an Inshore Spinning Rod
If you live close to the ocean and are planning on engaging in inshore fishing regularly, then you need to purchase one of these inshore spinning rods without a doubt.
The best inshore spinning rod will allow you to go after just about any type of fish without having to worry about damage being done to your equipment in the harmful saltwater conditions.
Not only will having the proper equipment makes it easier for you to head out on the water whenever the urge strikes you, but it will allow you to enjoy your fishing experience to the fullest.
Even though you might not be coming face-to-face with some of the behemoth monsters found in the deep sea, inshore fishing is a great way to explore the joys of saltwater fishing – even if you don’t have a boat.
Grab one of these best inshore spinning rods, and see for yourself!
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