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Picture this.
It’s a beautiful spring day and you’re hiking back to your favorite backwoods spot to get in a little bit of trout fishing.
The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and you feel like you have everything in the world you could need or want. An exciting day of fishing awaits you!
But then you step down off a rock, tripped over a root, and your long, cumbersome fishing rod gets tangled in the branches above.
And it snaps into two pieces.
Now don’t get me wrong – there are plenty of excellent two-piece rods on the market.
But chances are, if you didn’t buy your rod this way, you probably don’t want it to end up that way in the middle of the woods!
A telescoping fishing rod will put all your other rods to shame because it’s easier for you to take it on any fishing adventure with you.
The best telescopic fishing rod will not only get the job done out there on the water, but it will also telescope down into a collapsible, portable rod that can fit into a backpack, hiking bag, carry-on, or storage compartment.
Ready to start shopping for the most versatile fishing tool you’ll ever have?
10 Best telescopic fishing rods in 2024
Here are the best telescopic fishing rods for you to consider:
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What to Look for in a Good Telescopic Fishing Rod
If you’re on the hunt for the best telescopic fishing rod, the first thing you need to understand is what a telescopic rod is.
Put simply, a telescopic fishing rod is one that can collapse or fold down into a tiny portion of its fully extended length.
There is no limit on how large or small these might be – you might find a 12-foot rod that can press down into just two feet or some that are even larger or smaller.
Here are some of the characteristics you need to keep in mind while you are shopping.
Power & Action
As with all fishing rods, power and action are the key considerations that you need to make when you are shopping for a telescopic rod.
The best action and power will give you all the energy you need to put up a good fight against an aggressive fish.
Generally, a telescopic rod will have more power when the diameter of the rod increases.
Otherwise, you can find three power categories – light, heavy, and medium.
Medium power is a good bet if you are fishing for most species, but if you’re going after heavier or lighter species you may have to adjust accordingly.
Rod Length & Comfort
Think about how you plan to use your telescopic fishing rod when you are selecting the best length for your rod.
Plan to cast long distances? Go for a longer rod.
Are shorter distances more your style? A shorter rod will do.
Length affects distance because the distance will be impacted by how hard you swing.
As a result, you should also look for a handle that gives you enough room for both of your hands. If you can apply pressure with both of your hands, you will be able to swing harder and further.
Telescopic rods vary in length. They are usually offered at anywhere from six to twelve feet.
Experiment a bit and see what works best for you. As a beginner, a rod that is a shorter to medium-length (around seven to eight feet) will likely be ideal.
A telescopic rod of an average length will let you play around as you learn how to cast and will also be relatively well balanced.
Think about comfort, too. A handle that is equipped with an ergonomic material like EVA foam is best.
Also Read: Which Portable Fishing Rod is Right For You?
Reel Seat
The reel seat is the portion of the rod where you attach your reel, positioning it to your ideal location.
When you are selecting your rod, think carefully about what kind of reel you plan to use with it.
A baitcasting reel, the favorite option among professionals, works along with the weight of your bait, helping you catch and reel in larger fish.
A spinning reel is good for beginners as it can handle lightweight baits and is perfect for catching fish.
If you plan on giving this telescopic rod to a small child, look for one that can handle a spinning reel. Young children do best when they can fish with spinning reels for sure!
A final reel option is a spin-cast reel. These are also pretty easy to use. All you need to do is press a button and the bait will push the line out of the reel for you.
No matter what kind of reel you’re interested in, make sure the telescopic rod you select is equipped to work well with it.
Blanks, Guides and Ferrules
Blanks are super important when you are shopping for a telescopic fishing rod.
As a general rule of thumb, the more blank piece a rod has, the better a rod will carry.
This is because blanks allow the rod to collapse into a smaller, more portable unit. The more blanks, the more eyelets you’ll have, too.
Also known as guides, eyelets help increase the stability of a rod. More eyelets also help take some of the pressure off the reel to improve your casting ability.
Guides can be made out of a variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, and plastic. They are usually found on the bottom of the rod.
No matter what kind of telescopic rod you ultimately select, make sure the guides are made out of quality materials and operate smoothly, allowing the line to move out with ease.
You may also want to consider the ferrules on the rod. On a telescopic rod, you will usually find that there are two ferrules – one is male, and one is female, coming together to fuse the pieces of the rod.
You need to make sure the guides lineup to attach the pieces – this will prevent a crooked cast.
Material
As with all fishing equipment, looking at the material out of which your rod is constructed is vital.
The best telescopic fishing rods will be made out of a composite material consisting of a high-tech graphite and fiberglass blend.
However, you might also choose a telescopic fishing rod made out of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or just graphite. All of these will work.
Graphite rods tend to have more power. Professionals generally prefer graphite rods for this reason.
That being said, they tend to break more often than other materials. Just be careful if you choose this kind of rod as a beginner.
A fiberglass rod will offer more durability, but you also add some weight with that level of protection.
It’s definitely a trade-off!
On the flip side of things, try to avoid selecting a rod that is made solely out of aluminum. Also, avoid rods built out of corrosion-prone metals.
Flexibility
When it comes to a telescoping fishing rod, flexibility is key.
If your rod doesn’t have the flex and bend necessary to move with the weight of the fish you have on your line, you’re going to find that it doesn’t last all that long.
Buy a rod that is rated as being very flexible – and holds up well to pressure, based on customer reviews.
Warranty
Telescopic fishing rods tend to be not only more expensive but also more fragile than their non-telescopic, rigid counterparts.
As a result, you should look for a rod that is backed by a good manufacturer’s warranty.
Of course, this should not be the top thing on your list when you are searching for a good rod – but it should be somewhere on your list of priorities.
Further Reading:
Top Choices for Bank Rod Holders – https://www.ontrackfishing.com/bank-fishing-rod-holders/
Top 10 Telescopic Fishing Rods
Here are the top 10 telescopic fishing rods on the market today.
1. KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod – Quality designed travel rod
The KastKing Blackhawk II is a line of telescopic fishing rods that are sure to give you your money’s worth.
Perfect for beginners, the KastKing is a telescopic, collapsible fishing rod with a gorgeous design.
Not only does it have an elegant design, but its black coat will make you feel like an expert angler while you are holding it.
A portable fishing rod, it’s retractable and can easily fit into a pocket of your backpack.
With 24-ton toray carbon fiber blanks and a 90-degree vertical compression layer, this rod will give you everything you could ever need.
It’s a one-piece rod so you don’t have to worry about losing the various pieces of it. It includes durable, lightweight guides made out of resilient stainless steel.
With a 180-degree horizontal strength, it also has a crack-resistant layer. You’ll be able to catch fish from all over with this rod, which can cast more than seven feet.
The KastKing Blackhawk II line of telescopic fishing rods are also easy to assemble. Extending it starts at the tip – simply extend each section while aligning each guide slowly.
Extend each tip section until it stops, align the guides, repeat.
When you’re ready to collapse this rod, all you need to do is start at the bottom and twist, working your way up the rod.
Easy peasy!
Pros:
- Comes in multiple sizes and actions
- Has a smooth, consistent taper
- Quick and easy to assemble
Cons:
- Too long to fit into carry on luggage
2. PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod Retractable Fishing Pole
Another one of the best telescopic fishing rods for you to consider is this model by Plussino. Not only is it a fully telescopic and collapsible fishing rod, but it’s portable.
What makes it truly stand out is its length. When you purchase, there are a variety of sizes that you can choose from.
The largest size reaches close to 11 feet! It’s one of the best and biggest travel rods you will find.
While you don’t need to spring for such a large size if you’re only a beginner, this massive length can give you all the stretch you need to go after some far away fish.
Perfect for saltwater fishing, offshore fishing, and even fly fishing, this telescopic fishing rod has a ton of awesome features.
Not only does it have reel seats that are made out of stainless steel and resistant to corrosion – yes, perfect for saltwater fishing! – but it also has a fiberglass and carbon fiber design to add to its strength and durability.
That’s not it, either. This rod has a handle that is built with comfortable EVA foam – you will always be comfortable while using it.
With a gear ratio of 5.2:1 this telescopic rod has the perfect blend of materials to resist anything you might throw at it.
It has a line capacity of 200m x 140m x 240m, too – you can use it with just about any type of line.
A favorite among expert anglers, this rod offers elasticity and efficacy. It has aluminum oxide guide inserts and will last for many years, throughout all your spectacular fishing adventures!
Pros:
- Can be used for both fresh and saltwater fishing
- Resists saltwater corrosion
- Reaches up to 11 feet
Cons:
- Should not be used for deep-sea fishing
3. Sougayilang Fishing Rod – Portable Telescopic Super Hard Ultralight Fishing Pole
The Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod is incredibly portable, designed for travel and engineered to be incredibly long-lasting.
It is a little bit heavier than some of the other telescopic rods I will review, but the extra weight is worth it when it comes to how well this rod works.
It offers an impressive length of nine feet – but folds down to just 17 inches! The perfect rod if you are seeking a massive reach without sacrificing portability, this rod includes high-density carbon blanks that are 24-ton.
The reel seat of the Sougayilang Portable Fishing Rod is built out of corrosion-resistant CNC machined aluminum.
This type of aluminum is extra durable and has the potential to add years to the life of the rod. It also has stainless steel guides that are three-point welded along with ceramic inserts.
The Sougayilang Portable Fishing Rod has a strong, comfortable EVA foam handle. It is easily adjustable and can be used right or left-handed.
This rod is highly elastic, retaining its spring and efficacy no matter how long you use it. It’s even backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty!
This telescopic rod could very well be the product you have been looking for. A portable telescopic rod, it’s perfect for both freshwater and saltwater fishing alike.
Pros:
- Portable option
- Has a comfortable formal handle
- Lightweight and sensitive
Cons:
- Should not be used for saltwater fishing
4. TROUTBOY Black Warrior Fishing Rod
The name says it all – this telescopic fishing rod is perfect for anglers wishing to go after trout!
While it’s a bit smaller than some of the other options, keep in mind that the Black Warrior can be purchased in six different sizes.
It has a smaller handle that is perfect for tiny hands and a reel seat made out of machined aluminum.
Along with the guides, which are made out of stainless steel, the reel seat is resistant to corrosion.
The guides are backed by ceramic inserts and can handle just about any kind of line.
The rod is easy to store and even easier to carry. Since it’s available in so many lengths, you’ll be able to find a rod that perfectly matches your fishing goals and experience.
With a super comfortable grip, this rod has an EVA fore handle. It has plenty of other exceptional features, too, including E-glass and 24-ton carbon fiber to add to its overall strength and durability.
Pros:
- Easy to pack and carry
- Lightweight and durable
- EVA foam handle
Cons:
- Not the best for beginners
5. Burning Shark Fishing Rods, 24-Ton Ultra Lightweight Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Burning Shark Fishing Rods come in a variety of sizes, starting at just under 6 feet and all the way up to 12 feet!
Made out of high-density 24-ton carbon and glass fibers, these fishing rods are perfect for saltwater use. The reel seat is made out of aluminum that is CNC machined.
In addition, these rods have stainless steel guides that offer consistency and strength.
The Burning Shark Fishing Rods have an EVA Fore Grip for added comfort along with a unique Human Mechanics Design. It’s easy to cast and troll with one of these rods for sure.
A super lightweight telescopic fishing rod, it is easy to stash this into your car trunk or your backpack.
Perfect for anglers at any level, this rod is backed by a one-year product assurance guarantee.
Pros:
- Has a lengthened hollow handle
- Awesome appearance with a laser engraving logo
- Has a soft EVA handle
Cons:
- Some complaints about the durability of the reel seat
6. Thkfish Telescopic Fishing Rod – Retractable Fishing Pole
Yes, it looks like the name of this rod is missing a few letters – but don’t let that worry you. It’s an excellent telescopic rod that you might want to consider for your next fishing adventure.
It’s made out of special carbon, a unique material that offers unparalleled durability. The thkfish telescopic fishing rod is strong and firm without sacrificing flexibility.
Plus, it can reach nearly eleven feet!
A compact yet highly effective telescopic rod, this option is perfect for travel.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to carry
- Available in several lengths
- Can haul in heavy fish
- The thkfish telescopic fishing rod can reach almost eleven feet.
Cons:
- Has some sharp edges
7. Eagle Claw PK555SP Pack-It Telescopic Spinning Rod
The Eagle Claw is the perfect telescopic fishing rod for packing into backwoods ponds.
It’s made out of durable glass construction and has strong ceramic guides. It’s just 5’6” long, which is perfect for young kids.
Although it’s made out of fiberglass, which is sometimes considered a heavier material, it’s perfect for stashing in your car.
It even has a ceramic foam handle (EVA foam, anyone?) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
You can reel in heavier and larger fish with this reel, despite its lightweight nature. It has ceramic guides that are resistant to corrosion and super aggressive action.
What more could you possibly want?
Pros:
- Good for beginners and experts alike
- Versatile design
- Comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons:
- Tends to be less durable than some other models
8. FISHOAKY Fishing Rod Kit, Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole
FishOaky offers a huge line of collapsible, telescopic rods. One of the best telescopic fishing rods on the market, this carbon fiber option is perfect for backpacking or day hikes.
The FishOaky kit is designed for spinning reels, something that is perfect for people who like to backpack into far-away fishing spots.
This kit offers you everything you could possibly need. You’ll get a carbon fiber fishing rod, spinning fishing reel, fishing line, a fishing bag, and various fishing baits and lures.
Oh, and you’ll get a ton of hooks, too! When all is said and done, you will have everything you need for an epic fishing adventure.
Take this kit with you on a saltwater fishing adventure, out for trout at your favorite backwoods pond, or even just down the road. It doesn’t matter – it’s highly portable!
Spinning reels are much lighter than other types of reels, so these rods are perfect for when you are on the go. Plus they collapse to just over a foot in length!
With a quality build and low weight, the FishOaky telescopic fishing rod is definitely one to consider.
Pros:
- Ultralight and exceptionally portable
- Perfect for inshore and offshore fishing
- Comes with a 12-month manufacturers warranty
Cons:
- Difficult to extend the rod sometimes
9. HURRICANE MK-706MHSPT Mako 7′ 6Pc Telescopic Rod
The Hurricane Mako Telescopic Rod offers the perfect storm of features to help you weather the conditions of saltwater fishing.
The rod can be broken down into six sections, each of which is made out of sturdy fiberglass and has its own rod blank.
It also comes with ceramic guides and a reel seat that is made out of durable graphite. The reel seat also has cushioned hoods of stainless steel.
If you like to cast long distances, this is the rod for you. It can handle the pressure from heavy fish and works well in both fresh and saltwater.
At a length of more than seven feet, the rod is perfect for casting long distances. You don’t sacrifice on sturdiness, though – the fiberglass makes it extra tough.
Another unique feature of this rod is the rod blank, which is separated into six distinct sections. Each of these has a compartment to make it collapsible and portable.
With an EVA foam handle, this rod is super comfortable to use. It’s made out of materials that are excellent at holding up to the rigors of saltwater fishing.
You can really rely on this telescopic fishing rod for exceptional performance!
It even comes with carry-on luggage. That’s right – you can take this with you in your car or on a plane!
Pros:
- One of the most portable telescopic rods
- Great for long-distance casting
- Resistant to corrosion
Cons:
- Can be considered somewhat heavy
10. ZACX Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
If you are looking for a completely grab-and-go solution to your telescoping fishing rod shopping experience, then the ZACX Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is the right choice for you.
This kit comes with everything you need to get started – including a telescopic fishing rod, reel, line, both hard and soft lures, and even hooks.
All of these items are packed into a handy carrying case! Everything you could ever want is packed into this handy package.
A high-quality, convenient rod and reel combination, the ZACK Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is the way to go.
The rod itself is made out of high-density carbon fiber, offering the best of durability as well as a lightweight feel. The reel, too, works well, operating with an efficient instant anti-reverse system.
A user-friendly product, this telescopic fishing rod is clearly one of the best.
Pros:
- Comes with reel, line, and lures
- Made out of high-density carbon fiber
- The reel has an instant anti-reverse system
Cons:
- Not designed for deep-sea fishing
Which Telescopic Fishing Rod is Right For You?
Don’t let yourself be stuck without the proper equipment. There’s nothing worse than being underprepared for a fishing trip – take it from me.
I’ve been there a time or two, and there’s nothing more disappointing than hiking or traveling for miles…only to find that your rod has broken, and you have nothing to fish with.
There is no single best telescopic fishing rod for every angler.
Instead, it’s important that you carefully weigh all your options to see what’s out there. With plenty of options to choose from, you will be able to find the perfect retractable telescopic fishing rod to meet your preferences, budgets, and needs.
Fish – and hike – onward!
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