10 Best Trolling Rods 2025 in the United States

The Okuma CP-LT-762M Classic Pro GLT Lake Trolling Rod is a 7-foot, 6-inch rod designed for lake trolling, offering a moderate-fast action and medium power. Made from durable glass fiber with stainless steel components, this rod is built for reliability and quality.

Its stainless steel hooded reel seat with graphite cushion inserts and double foot guides with titanium oxide inserts enhance durability and performance. The EVA butt with a shrink tube makes it easy to remove from rod holders, and the tip-over-butt ferrule connection provides additional strength.

This rod supports a line weight of 10 to 20 pounds, making it versatile for various fishing conditions. Some may find the medium power and moderate-fast action slightly limiting compared to higher-end, more specialized rods. It's a solid choice for both amateur and experienced anglers looking for a dependable trolling rod for lake fishing.

The PENN Carnage III Boat Conventional Fishing Rod is a durable and robust trolling rod designed for serious anglers. At 7 feet in length with medium-heavy power and fast action, it is suitable for handling large catches in open water. The rod is constructed using SLS3 blank construction, which ensures strength while remaining lightweight at just 0.42 kilograms. The Fuji K-Series and HB-Series guides with SiC inserts help to prevent line tangles and enhance the rod's performance. Additionally, the Fuji DPS and Sea-Guide Aluminum HBS reel seats offer reliable support for your reel, depending on the model you choose.

The rod is designed for casting techniques and is built as a single piece, which enhances its strength and sensitivity but may make it difficult to transport for some users. The color scheme of silver, black, and gold gives it a sleek and professional appearance. The PENN Carnage III is rated for line weights between 40-80 pounds, making it a versatile choice for various fishing conditions.

However, the single-piece design and relatively high price point might not suit everyone, especially those who prioritize portability and budget. This rod is ideal for adult anglers who are serious about their trolling and need a high-performance rod that can handle hefty fish with ease.

The PENN Mariner III Boat Conventional Fishing Rod is a solid choice for those who enjoy heavy-duty fishing. At 6'6" in length, it offers a good balance between control and reach, making it suitable for boat fishing. The rod is designed with heavy power and fast action, which means it is well-suited to handle strong, hard-fighting fish like tuna and halibut.

The fiberglass reinforced blanks add durability and strength, ensuring the rod can withstand high tension levels (30-80 lbs line weight). The rod features PENN Dura-Guides, which are designed to be tough and resistant to wear, providing smooth line movement and reducing the chance of line breakage. The heavy-duty graphite reel seat ensures a secure fit for your reel, while the contoured EVA grips contribute to comfortable handling, even during long fishing sessions. Additionally, the durable rubber gimbal helps in securing the rod when fighting large fish.

However, as a one-piece rod, it may be less convenient to transport and store compared to multi-piece rods. The color scheme of black and red gives it a stylish appearance. Users have rated it highly (4.6 out of 5 stars), suggesting general satisfaction with its performance and durability. This rod is best suited for anglers who need a strong and reliable rod for heavy-duty fishing in saltwater environments.