First off, why are swimbaits so popular? Well, they’re incredibly versatile and can mimic various types of forage, from small baitfish to large prey. They come in different sizes, shapes, and colors, making them an excellent choice for different fishing conditions and species. But to get the most out of your swimbait fishing, you need a rod that can handle the weight of these lures and provide the right action for a lifelike presentation.
When it comes to choosing the best rod for swimbaits, there are several factors to consider. The size and weight of the swimbait, the type of fishing you plan to do, and your personal comfort and preference all play a role.
Firstly, the size and weight of the swimbait are crucial. If you’re using larger, heavier swimbaits, you’ll need a rod that can handle the weight and provide enough backbone for a solid hookset. A rod in the 7’6″ to 8′ range with a heavy or extra-heavy power rating is often a good choice for these larger baits.
For smaller, lighter swimbaits, a shorter rod with a medium or medium-heavy power rating can be a better choice. A rod in the 7′ to 7’6″ range can provide a good balance of casting distance and control.
The type of fishing you plan to do also affects your rod choice. If you’re fishing in heavy cover or targeting larger fish, a heavier rod can provide the power you need to pull fish out of cover and handle their weight. If you’re fishing in open water and targeting smaller fish, a lighter rod can provide more sensitivity and a more enjoyable fight.
10 best rod for swimbaits
- Daiwa DXSB801XXHFB DXSB XX
- Okuma Guide select swimbait
- Okuma Scott Martin Concept TCS Tournament Rods
- Dobyns Fury Series
- Dobyns Rods Fury Series FR 795SB
- Entsport Camo Legend 2-PC 7-Feet Casting Fishing Rod
- Abu Garcia Fantasista Beast Casting Rod
- Fenwick Elite Tech Predator Casting Rod
- Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Rod
- KastKing Royale Legend Casting and Spinning Fishing Rods
You can also check Swimbait Reel Reviews.
Top 10 Swimbait Rods With Details.
1- Daiwa DXSB801XXHFB DXSB XX
Daiwa Dxsb swimbait rods are designed to meet the needs of freshwater and saltwater anglers who are looking for a specific action to launch all different sizes and weights of swimbaits. With this swimbait rod, you will take a lot of guesswork out of the way. Most importantly, it is extremely affordable. This is my personal favorite rods for swimbaits.
Pros
- Specifically designed hook keeper is ideal for large baits
- Fuji aluminum oxide guides
- 5-year warranty
- Fuji reel seat
- Im-7 graphite construction
- Extremely budget friendly
- It is accurate
Cons
- This rod doesn’t have too much buyer exposure
2- Okuma Guide select swimbait
Okuma is another great fishing gear. It has been chosen by many anglers as their ideal swimbait fishing rod. The swimbait is appropriate for medium-sized swimbait fishing and can effectively fish on middle layers of water.
Pros
- Strong enough to withstand vibrations in relation to the action and movement of the swimbait
- It has a good length to ensure just right long-distance launching of the swimbait
- Its action is restricted to moderately fast
Cons
- Somewhat expensive considering the fact that it has limited features
- Even though UFR is provided, it must be handled with care; therefore, it is ideal for professionals and not beginners
3- Okuma Scott Martin Concept TCS Tournament Rods
These tournament roads were made after Okuma engineers and Scott Martin teamed up.
Pros
- They are designed by Scott Martin for tournament concept fishing. The rods in this series are specific to their application in tournaments
- These rods are made from 30-ton graphite in ultrasensitive construction
- With the tough aluminum oxide inserts, these rods can be used along braided lines
- It also has a custom EVA slip grip and foregrip which helps in reducing the heaviness of the rod
- Stainless steel Alps guide frame
- To improve knot clearance, the sizing of the rod has been done with immense attention to detail
- They are designed by Scott Martin for tournament concept fishing. The rods in this series are specific to their application in tournaments
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy action in salty lakes
4- Dobyns Fury Series
These fishing rods are known to be extremely light and suitable for fishing in a range of baits and lures.
Pros
- Sensitive yet lightweight and strong, Dobyns Fury series has a balanced feel that makes it easy for users to handle it.
- It is made of high-modulus graphite blank which transmits vibrations from the faltering bites of fish so that you can easily follow up with a strong set of the hook after skillfully playing the fish.
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to hold without experiencing hand fatigue even during extended waiting periods.
- The rod also has a Fuji reel seat which provides a secure and safe reel attachment as well as a wobble-free reel performance with just the right affixation
Cons
- Ideal for small fishing reels
5- Dobyns Rods Fury Series FR 795SB
These fishing rods are designed specifically for smaller swimbaits. Actually, it is currently placed under the category of the medium-heavy rod and has a slightly slower action. Known for its exceptional value, it has a lightweight appearance, reliable sensitivity, balanced and strong.
It also features important features which many anglers need. These include high modulus graphite black, the Kevlar wrapping, AA-grade cork grip, and Fuji reel seat.
Pros
- Ideal fishing rod for anglers who carry heavy baits
- Well-balanced and lightweight
- Kevlar wrapping
- Works perfectly well for 2 to 4 oz swimbaits
- Affordable value
Cons
- Cork is missing on handle
6- Entsport Camo Legend 2-PC 7-Feet Casting Fishing Rod
This is an amazing fishing rod with 2 tips that allow users to adjust their casting weight. It suits different fishing conditions and actions, and it’s versatile. Made out of 24 Ton carbon fiber, this fishing rod is extremely durable and lightweight.
It features the right balance between sensitivity and strength. This means that the fishing rod will last longer and detect the slightest movement. It also comes with a full exposure reel seat made of aluminum, making it resistant to erosion for extra durability.
Pros
- Travel-friendly design with two tips
- Its carbon fiber construction is durable
- Comfortable handle
- The improved reel seat and corrosion-resistant hoods
Cons
- Tightening bold is not durable
7- Abu Garcia Fantasista Beast Casting Rod
This fishing rod is suitable for catching inshore species such as trout, musky and other large fish found in freshwater. It has a strong carbon construction for durability yet is ultra-sensitive and lightweight. The premium components used on Abu Garcia Fantasista Beast Casting Rod provide a technique-specific action for providing precision power. It also comes with Fuji aconite guides that make it easy to handle fighting fish, not to forget the Fuji reel seat which offers comfort all day.
Pros
- It has a tetra-axial carbon construction for durability and strength
- Fuji reel seat for comfort
- Fuji Alconite guide system
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Some users have complained of the rod’s performance
8- Fenwick Elite Tech Predator Casting Rod
The ultimate combination of balance, lightweight, power, and blank stiffness allows anglers to fish throughout the day without getting tired. It features strong stainless steel guides to prevent insert “pop-out” to provide many years of quality performance. They also feature innovative handle designs with sculpted TAC material as well as EVA inserts at crucial locations. The model is designed specifically to help anglers take their large species skills to another level.
Pros
- Hidden handle design reel allows for the co-existence of comfort and function
- The stainless steel guides are strong, corrosion-resistant and lightweight
- Perfected actions designs for catching large aggressive species
- EVA and TAC handle design provides a good grip when the handle is wet
Cons
- Slightly pricey
9- Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Rod
This fishing rod combines the best features to give users the most comfortable casting rod. The whole rod is made out of 30-ton graphite and the spiral carbon core construction improves the break strength of the rode greatly. Aside from being lightweight, it is also well-balanced because of its Titanium alloy guides that have SiC inserts.
Pros
- One of the most important aspects of this fishing rod is the fact that it is lightweight
- It has a stainless steel frame which makes it durable
- Improved break strength
- Ability to support different types of lines
Cons
- It is a one-piece rod, which means that it is not flexible enough
10- KastKing Royale Legend Casting and Spinning Fishing Rods
If you have not seen the beauty behind Kastking royal legend, fishing will never be a fun activity. These fishing rods have strong and sensitive kastflex blank. They are made from 24-ton carbon matrix KastFlex technology which gives the rod which gives the rod increased power and sensitivity. Laser-focused manufacturing techniques help in ensuring high quality and consistency in performance that is expected by serious bass anglers.
Pros
- Strong & sensitive kastflex blank
- High-quality Fuji lines guides
- 1 piece Bass Technique actions and lengths
- 2 piece Rods that perform like 1 piece rods
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some users say it is heavier
When it comes to choosing a rod for swimbaits, there are a few key factors to consider:
Power rating
Before choosing the power rating of your swimbait rod, you need to note the lure capacity. Since you are likely to fish with larger lures, you should never disregard this spec. Failure to take this into consideration might get your rod broken.
So, Swimbait rods need to have enough backbone to handle the weight of the lure and the fight of the fish. A medium-heavy to heavy power rod is typically recommended.
Action
Since there are a number of swimbaits in the market today, the action of the rod must be taken into account. The action of the rod determines the point at which the rod begins to flex and stop.
For example, your system when fishing along with a soft swimbait or single hoot is not synonymous with when you are fishing with a hard swimbait or treble hook. If you can master the action of the rod, then you are likely to get more fish in your boat.
In the meantime, an extra fast to fast action is suggested when fishing with single-hooked, medium-sized and small swimbaits. With fast action, you are able to load upright on the hook set it in their mouth.
Length
Basically, the length of the fishing rod is not really a make-or-break consideration unlike the first two. However, if you want to be able to through longer casts, then you will want to choose longer rods. In addition, longer rods will allow you to put a lot of press on the fish. A rod between 7’6″ and 8′ is generally a good choice.
Length of the handle
Since you will be casting heavy lures, using a short handle can be challenging. In this case, it is important that you consider the length of the handle. With longer handles, you will have more leverage and this will allow you to use both hands when casting.
Rod Material
Graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, while fiberglass rods are more durable and have a slower action, which can be beneficial for swimbait fishing.
General guideline Data for pairing lure sizes with rod sizes.
[Please note that these are just general recommendations and can vary based on specific conditions and personal preferences.]
- Small Lures (1/4 to 1/2 oz): These lures are best suited for a light or medium-light power rod that is 6 to 7 feet long. These rods are sensitive and allow for precise casting of small lures.
- Medium Lures (1/2 to 1 oz): For these lures, a medium or medium-heavy power rod that is 7 to 8 feet long is typically recommended. These rods provide a good balance of sensitivity and strength for casting and controlling medium-sized lures.
- Large Lures (1 to 2 oz): Large lures typically require a medium-heavy to heavy power rod that is 7.5 to 8.5 feet long. These rods have the strength needed to cast large lures and handle big fish.
- Extra Large Lures (2 oz and up): For these large and heavy lures, a heavy or extra-heavy power rod that is 8 to 9 feet long is usually recommended. These rods are designed to handle the weight and resistance of extra-large lures and big fish.
Swimbait Fishing Tips
Swimbait fishing can be a game-changer when targeting bass. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Choose the Right Swimbait: The best swimbait for you depends on the fish you’re targeting. For bass fishing, some of the top choices include the River2Sea S-Waver, the Megabass Magdraft, and the Huddleston Deluxe Trout. These swimbaits have realistic designs and swimming actions that can entice bass to bite.
- Match the Hatch: Try to match your swimbait to the size and type of forage fish in the water you’re fishing. If the bass are feeding on small shad, use a smaller, shad-colored swimbait. If they’re feeding on larger trout, use a larger, trout-patterned swimbait.
- Vary Your Retrieve: Don’t just cast and retrieve at a steady pace. Vary your speed, add pauses, and try different depths until you find what the fish are responding to.
How to Fish with Swimbaits
Fishing with swimbaits is more than just casting and retrieving. Here’s a simple guide on how to do it effectively:
- Casting: Cast your swimbait towards your target area. This could be a weed line, a drop-off, or any structure where bass might be hiding.
- Retrieving: Start with a slow, steady retrieve. The swimbait should swim naturally, mimicking a real fish.
- Burn and Kill: This technique involves retrieving the swimbait quickly (burn) and then suddenly stopping (kill), which can trigger a reaction strike from a following bass.
- Yo-Yo Retrieve: Cast out your swimbait and let it sink to the bottom. Then, reel it up quickly and let it fall back down. This up-and-down motion (like a yo-yo) can be very enticing to bass.
- Setting the Hook: When you feel a bite, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Bass often hit the bait hard and then come back to fully engulf it. Wait until you feel the weight of the fish before setting the hook.
Swimbait Fishing Line
The line you use for swimbait fishing should be strong enough to handle the weight of the bait and the potential size of the fish. A 20 to 25-pound fluorocarbon line is a good choice for most swimbait fishing situations. However, if you’re targeting larger bass or fishing in heavy cover, you might want to use a 30 to 50-pound braided line for its superior strength and abrasion resistance.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
What is a good swimbait rod?
A good swimbait rod should have a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. It should be able to handle the weight of the swimbait and the potential size of the fish while still providing the sensitivity to detect bites.
What size rod for swimbaits?
The size of the rod you choose for swimbaits should depend on the size of the swimbait you’re using. For larger swimbaits, a longer rod (around 7’6″ to 8′) is typically recommended. For smaller swimbaits, a shorter rod (around 7′) may be sufficient.
What is the best rod for large swimbaits?
For large swimbaits, a longer, heavier rod is typically needed. The Okuma Guide Select Swimbait Rod, which is 7’11” and has a heavy power rating, is a popular choice.
What is the best rod for small swimbaits?
For small swimbaits, a shorter, lighter rod may be sufficient. The Dobyns Rods Fury Series FR 795SB, which is 7’9″ and has a medium-heavy power rating, is a versatile choice that can handle a range of swimbait sizes.
What is the best rod for soft swimbaits?
Soft swimbaits require a rod that can handle their weight and provide enough sensitivity to detect bites. The G. Loomis IMX-PRO Swimbait Rod is a high-quality option that many anglers recommend.
What is the best rod for huddleston swimbait?
The Huddleston swimbait is a large, heavy lure, so a strong, durable rod is needed. The Okuma Guide Select Swimbait Rod and the Dobyns Rods Fury Series FR 795SB are both good choices.
What kind of rod do you use for swimbaits?
When you’re using swimbaits, you may prefer longer rods for better casting distance and everything. A long rod gives you hook setting power as well. However, for a swimbait, we suggest going for a 7.5 to 8-foot rod that’s rated for 1-4 ounces. These rods can handle bigger lures as well. This size rod is a perfect choice for beginners.
What rod should I use for small swimbaits?
When you’re using smaller swimbaits, we suggest going for a high modulus graphite rod which will be approx 6.5 to 7 feet long with medium action. You can make longer and distant casts with this size while keeping the accuracy 100%.
Who needs that product and why?
Actually, who wants perfection in swimbait fishing and Wants to acquire the full benefit or comfort in swimbait fishing.
Conclusion
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the type of swimbait you’ll be using. There are many different types of swimbaits, from soft plastic swimbaits to hard-body swimbaits, and each can require a slightly different rod setup. For example, a soft plastic swimbait can often be fished effectively with a lighter rod, while a hard body swimbait may require a heavier rod.
Remember, the best rod for swimbaits can vary greatly depending on these factors. It’s all about finding the right balance that works for you and the specific fishing conditions you’re facing.