12 best crankbait rods

Crankbait rods are specialized fishing rods designed for a specific type of fishing lure known as a crankbait. These rods are crafted to optimize the performance of crankbaits, making them a popular choice among anglers who pursue species like bass, walleye, pike, and muskie. Here's what you need to know about crankbait rods:

  1. Length and Action: Crankbait rods typically have a moderate to moderate-heavy power rating and a moderate action. This combination is ideal for casting and retrieving crankbaits because it allows the rod to flex and absorb the shock of a fish striking the lure while maintaining control over the bait.

  2. Length Variations: Crankbait rods come in various lengths, usually ranging from 6 to 8 feet. The length you choose depends on factors like the size of the crankbait you're using and the casting distance you require.

  3. Line Compatibility: These rods are designed to work well with monofilament, fluorocarbon, or co-polymer fishing lines. These lines have some stretch, which helps prevent tearing the hooks out of a fish's mouth during hooksets.

  4. Lure Weight Range: Crankbait rods are matched to specific lure weight ranges. This ensures that the rod can cast and retrieve the crankbait effectively. It's essential to use a rod that matches the weight of your crankbait for optimal performance.

  5. Graphite or Composite Construction: Crankbait rods are typically made from graphite or composite materials.Graphite rods tend to be more sensitive and lighter, while composite rods offer a bit more flexibility.

  6. Casting vs. Spinning: Crankbait rods are often designed for baitcasting reels, which are commonly used for crankbait fishing. However, there are spinning versions available for those who prefer spinning reels.

  7. Lure Depth: The depth at which you intend to fish your crankbaits is a crucial consideration. Different crankbaits are designed to dive to specific depths, and your rod should be suited to the type of crankbait you plan to use.

  8. Sensitivity: While crankbait rods are not typically known for their extreme sensitivity, they should still provide enough feedback to detect subtle strikes. A good crankbait rod strikes a balance between sensitivity and the ability to handle the lure's action.

  9. Handle and Grip: The handle of a crankbait rod often has a split grip design, with EVA foam or cork material. This design provides comfort during long casting and retrieves.

  10. Hook Setting: Crankbait fishing often requires a different hook-setting technique. Anglers often use a slower, sweeping motion when setting the hook to avoid tearing the lure out of the fish's mouth.

Crankbait rods are valuable tools for anglers who want to effectively fish with crankbaits. Choosing the right rod for your specific needs and the type of crankbaits you plan to use is essential to maximize your success on the water. These rods are designed to provide the right balance of power, action, and sensitivity to make crankbait fishing a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best crankbait rods on the market
  

Dobyns Rods 706CB Champion Series Heavy Mod-Fast Crankbait Rod, 7'0", Black/Blue

Dobyns Rods

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The new standard for sensitivity, strength, weight and balance! the dobyns rods champion series rod feature proprietary high modulus graphite blanks, zero tangle kigan guides with sic inserts, Kevlar wrapping, Fuji graphite reel seats and aa-grade cork grips. The champion series rods are light, strong sensitive and perfectly balanced. The 706cb is a heavy mod-fast action crankbait rod rated for 8-20 lb. Line and 3/8-1 1/2 oz. Lures.

  • 7'0" Heavy Mod-Fast Action Crankbait Rod
  • 8-20 lb. test
  • 3/8-1 1/2 oz. lure weight
  • Recommended for Crankbaits, Jerkbaits, Small Swimbaits, Topwaters

Lew's Team Lew's Custom Pro Mark Rose Ledge 7'6" Small Crankbaits Casting Rod

Lew's

Product description

Each team Lew's custom Pro Series rod blank is precision crafted with the lfs-x5 Nano technology delivering maximum sensitivity from an outer core consisting of 85-modulus graphite. Tangle free SS316 stainless steel guides feature Zirconium inserts for smooth line flow. Nothing but the best a-grade cork palm swell handles with EVA and duracork inlay for advanced comfort and performance. Features: - Lew's exclusive multi layered proprietary lfs-x5 graphite blanks with technique specific actions - guides are tangle free SS316 stainless steel frames with Zirconium inserts - Lew's exclusive SoftTouch graphite skeletal reel seat - a-grade cork with palm swell handles and EVA and duracork inlay - Lew's trigger hook keeper on casting models. Specifications: - technique: ledge Series casting - style: small crankbaits - length: 7'6 inch - number of pieces: 1 - power: medium - action: fast - line rating: 8-12 lbs. - lure rating: 1/8-5/8 oz. - guide type: SS316 stainless steel frames with Zirconium inserts - blank material: lfs-x5 graphite - handle material: a-grade cork with palm swell handles - number of guides: 9+Tip

  • Lew's exclusive multi layered proprietary lfs-x5 graphite blanks with technique specific actions
  • Guides are Tangle free Ss316 stainless steel frames with Zirconium inserts
  • Lew's exclusive SoftTouch graphite skeletal reel seat
  • One Size

Product features

Team Lew's Custom Pro Mark Rose Ledge Series Rods

Each Team Lew's Custom Pro Series rod blank is precision crafted with the LFS-X5 Nano Technology delivering maximum sensitivity from an outer core consisting of 85-modulus graphite. Tangle free SS316 stainless steel guides feature Zirconium inserts for smooth line flow. Nothing but the best A-Grade Cork palm swell handles with EVA and Duracork inlay for advanced comfort and performance. Targeting ledges and other offshore structure requires different rod blanks and tip actions for certain baits... it's all about lure control and the feel of what's happening down there.

From Mark Rose: "Lew's allowed me the opportunity to get these rods exactly the way I wanted for these types of applications. The resulting models represent my countless hours spent fine-tuning blank diameters, lengths, actions, and number of guides to get everything about each rod just right."

Stainless Steel Guides

Guides are tangle free SS316 stainless steel frames with Zirconium inserts.

LFS-X5 Nano Technology

Lew's exclusive multi layered proprietary LFS-X5 graphite blanks with technique specific actions.

A Grade Cork Handles

A-Grade Cork with palm swell handles and EVA and Duracork inlay.

13 FISHING - Fate Black - Baitcast Fishing Rods

13 Fishing

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If you don't know the Fate Black series by now, it's time to get acquainted. This widely recognized series is back to make another bold statement. The continuing legacy of sensitivity and reactive spline on the PVG30T blank gives this rod an unmatched feeling. Through the Evolve Soft Touch ported reel seat and custom-wrapped stainless steel Alconite guides, this rod relays the most subtle of fish intentions by harnessing the energy and transferring it straight to your palm. The lighter setup of the new edition improves the overall feel while maintaining the custom-tuned tapers the series is known for.

  • Japanese 30 Ton PVG30T Blank Construction
  • Japanese 30 Ton PVG30T Blank Construction
  • Evolve Stainless Steel Alconite Guides
  • Evolve Soft Touch Ported Reel Seat
  • High Density Japanese EVA Grips

13 FISHING - Defy Black - Baitcast Fishing Rods

13 Fishing

Product description

Giant fish? Heavy cover? Hell yes. Taking nods from the elite rods in the 13 Fishing line up this series delivers performance well beyond what you'd expect. Each taper is crafted to provide the best presentation and fighting ability possible. Continue defying the competition with the next edition of Defy Black.

  • PVG Japanese 24 Ton Blank Construction
  • PVG Japanese 24 Ton Blank Construction
  • Evolve Stainless Steel Alconite Guides
  • Evolve Snaggle Tooth Hook Keeper
  • Custom Evolve Seamless Reel Seat

SHIMANO Curado Crankbait Casting Rods

Shimano

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Delivering the high level of performance that is synonymous with the Curado name; the Shimano Curado Casting Rods provide tournament-grade quality in a number of versatile and technique specific actions. Lightweight and sensitive; the Shimano Curado Casting Rods are built with hybrid high-modulus UD carbon with Nanoresin blanks; offering the optimal blend of responsiveness and strength. Built with an extreme focus on reliability and performance; the Shimano Curado Casting Rods are fitted with premium Fuji Components throughout; including rubberized; soft-touch Fuji reel seats that provide extended comfort. Fuji tangle free guides with Alconite rings minimize line friction for increased casting distance and line life. Loaded with high-end features; Shimano's line of Curado products has continually sent the benchmark in-terms of quality – and the Shimano Curado Casting Rods are no exception. From an angling perspective; every individual who has owned and enjoyed using Shimano tackle has a reason to thank a Japanese visionary named Shozaburo Shimano; who in 1921 declared “I aim to make Shimano's products the best in Kansai; then the best in Japan; and finally the best in the world." For over 80 years; Shimano has concentrated on precision engineering; one step at a time. Creating the most innovative products and processes you can hold in your hand today.

  • Medium
  • 8lb-15lb
  • 5/16oz.-1/2oz.

User questions & answers

Question: This is an 8 ft heavy action crankbait rod correct? Just making sure the description is correct
Answer: Use jig head the size depends on conditions
Question: Is this 2 piece rod
Answer: They are about 1”3/4 to 2” long. Work great.

13 FISHING - Omen Black - 7'1" Crankbait Casting Rod - OB3C71C

13 Fishing

Product description

Long respected as the OG of the 13 Fishing lineup, our Omen Black series continues to lead our domination of the new school. With lengths, actions and powers that cover techniques both current and emerging, every stick in this tournament-proven series features Japanese 36 Ton Toray blanks with Poly Vector Graphite technology. Translation: Lighter and more sensitive without sacrificing durability. Add full-cork 4A Portuguese handles, diamond coated ALPS 316 Stainless Steel Guides with Zirconia Inserts, Evolve custom ported reel seat and you’ll find no better balance or value in its class.

  • Japanese 36 Ton Toray Graphite
  • Japanese 36 Ton Toray Graphite
  • 4A Hand-selected Portuguese Cork Handle
  • Evolve Snaggle Tooth Hook Keeper
  • Custom Evolve Ported Reel Seat

St. Croix Rods Legend Glass Spinning Rod

St. Croix Rod

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If you want to make the most of your fishing trips, be sure to have the best fishing equipment possible, and that starts with a pole from St. Croix. The award-winning Legend Glass fishing rod series has redefined performance in crankbait fishing. Its unbelievably lightweight linear S-glass blank, created with IPC mandrel technology, is the reason behind this fishing pole’s meteoric rise to the top. This glass rod is designed for crankbaits and other lures ideally matched to a moderate action rod. The care and technology that go into this spinning fishing rod will make sure that you are ready to reel in all sorts of fish that catch your line.

  • SUPER-PREMIUM 100% LINEAR S-GLASS CONSTRUCTION: Stronger, lighter, higher in modulus, and more dynamic than other traditional glass rods, while keeping great strength and sensitivity
  • INTEGRATED POLY CURVE (IPC) TOOLING TECHNOLOGY: Eliminates all transitional points in the Legend glass spinning fishing rod blank to provide smoother actions, increased strength, and greater sensitivity
  • FEATURES: Fuji K-Series tangle-free guides w/ Alconite Rings and Corrosion Control matte frames; Fuji PSS-SD palming reel seat w/ frosted silver hood; Split-grip/super-grade cork handle; Kigan hook-keeper; Flex-Coat slow-cure finish; Made in USA
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Length – 6’10”; Power – M; Action – Mod.; Pieces – 1; Line Weight – 6-12 lbs; Lure Weight – 1/4-5/8 oz; Rod Wt. – 5.1 oz; Handle – 5
  • 15-YEAR TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY: Backed by St. Croix Superstar Service

Daiwa Tatula Elite Signature Series Bass Rod, 6'9" Length, 1-Piece, 8-14 lbs. Line Rate, 1/4-5/8 oz. Lure Rate, Light Power

Daiwa

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tatula Elite Rods are designed with SVF Nanoplus Super Volume Fiber blanks for increased sensitivity and less weight. Crankbait rods are designed with GLATECH fiberglass / graphite construction needed for a slower reacting blank. The slower reacting blank is needed for the proper action of the crankbaits and allows fish to inhale baits better and not tear hooks. This will result in improve hook ratio while allowing and you increased sensitivity due to the graphite wrapped blank construction.

  • Made in China
  • Package height :204.47 cm
  • Package length :2.54 cm
  • Package width :5.08 cm
  • Package weight :0.159 kg

Daiwa, Tatula Elite Signature Series 1 Piece Casting Rod, 7'2" Length, 12-25 lb Line Rate, 1/4-1 3/8 oz Lure Rate, Medium/Heavy Power

Daiwa

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Daiwa’s added Tatula Elite Series Bass Rods to its stellar line up. What makes these rods so special? These are true signature series rods that were developed by Daiwa’s Pros such as Randy Howell, Brent Ehrler, Ish Monroe, Takahiro Omori, Seth Feider and Cody Meyer. Each pro was asked to pick their favorite techniques and design specific rods to be the ultimate action to accomplish that technique. Our Pros were given absolutely free reign to pick rod blank, guides and reel seat, so this series is the perfect personalized series line of rods. Now anglers do not have to guess what the right rod action would be for a specific technique. Daiwa pros have taken all of the guess work out of it so you don’t have to hunt for the right rod and can concentrate on catching more fish.

  • Daiwa’s Exclusive Super Volume Fiber-Modulus” SVF” Graphite blanks or GLATECH Fiberglass construction
  • X45 Bias Graphite construction prevents twisting of blanks for casting accuracy
  • Fuji Alconite ring guides
  • Daiwa Exclusive custom designed reel seats or Fuji reel seats
  • Signature Rods Developed by Daiwa Pros - Randy Howell

Rush Creek Creations Fishing Rod Holder and Tackle Storage Racks

Rush Creek Creations

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price
  • UNIQUE FISHING ROD STORAGE: Rotating round fishing rod rack that stores and displays up to 17 rod and reel combos (rods not included)
  • ULTRA GLIDE SWIVEL SYSTEM: Includes swivel system on base plate that offers smooth 360 degree rotation with Carbon Fiber Weave laminate finish
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Internal design will accommodate numerous tackle utility bait storage boxes with adjustable middle shelf
  • VERSATILE SLOTS AND ROD CLIPS: Includes padded slots on base plate for rod handles plus soft rod clips that adjust to any rod taper
  • OFFICIAL RACK SIZE: Measures 17. 7" L x 17. 7" W x 32. 4" H - No tools required for assembly

User questions & answers

Question: Can a backpack fit on shelf
Answer: 25
Question: It says delivery will be april 22nd. i really need one of these asap and would rather not build one. any chance it would arrive sooner
Answer: 15

Product features

Rush Creek Creations 17 Spinning Rod Storage Rack

This versatile rod storage rack is one of a kind. It will hold up to 17 rod and reel combos in addition to a variety of utility and tackle boxes. The swivel system will allow easy access to all of your gear.

Ultra-Glide Swivel Base

We incorporated a new Ultra-Glide Swivel system with larger ball bearings for smooth 360 degree rotation. The extra wide base leave plenty of rood for all of your rod and reel combos. We also added caps on the base plate as an added feature to capture any moisture.

Adjustable Middle Shelf

The internal steel frame posts are notched out so the middle shelf can be adjusted to any height so you can customize it to meet your needs. Powder coating was also used for added durability and is scratch resistant.

Carbon Fiber Graphite Weave Laminate

The carbon fiber graphite weave laminate is super hi-tech and has been sealed and banded all around the circumference of the top and base plate. The 17 freshwater rod clips will adjust to any taper.

Rush Creek Creations Fishing Rod Storage Rack

Rush Creek Creations

Based on 92 reviews Check latest price
  • UNIQUE FISHING ROD STORAGE: Handcrafted solid pine rolling fishing rod rack stores and displays up to 16 rods (rods not included)
  • EASY MOBILITY: 4 smooth-rolling locking caster wheels enable high mobility
  • RUSTIC STYLE: Checking is the natural drying process that creates splits in the wood for that true rustic look
  • EXTRA BENEFITS: Double-sided rack with wide, angled base gives easy access to rods
  • OFFICIAL RACK SIZE: Rack measures 26" L x 11.7" W x 37.3" H

User questions & answers

Question: Low Ceilings, how many inches from the floor to where the butt of the rod sits. i am concerned about my longer rods fitting
Answer: it will not hold the large rods such as 12ft surf rods the place holes are to small i had to enlarge some of them
Question: How to Clean the rod holder
Answer: I would have to say no. One end connects to the chair and the other to the umbrella "or" fishing pole
Question: Will this product hold saltwater poles
Answer: It will easily clamp to a 1 inch diameter pole and the screw will be fully threaded. You might be able to go 1.25 inch diameter pole with the screw half threaded.

Product features

Solid Rustic Pine

The Rustic Pine is a classic design made from 100% hand scraped wood. Then hand sanded with a high- quality varnish is applied to make scratch and weather resistant

American Cherry

The American Cherry version has a crisp laminate finish and will hold up to 16 rod and reel combos. The smooth rolling casters allow for easy maneuverability.

Barn Wood

The Barn Wood finish has a weathered look that is very popular today. The extra-wide one-piece side panels make this storage rack extremely durable and easy to assemble.

The Finishing Touches

We have outlined the top board in the American Cherry and Barn Wood models with padding on the top rail so to protect your rods from getting scratched. We also angled the board for your rod handles to 40 degrees so your gear will stay securely in place

Rush Creek Creations Round Spinning 30 Fishing Rod Rack

Rush Creek Creations

Based on 303 reviews Check latest price
  • UNIQUE FISHING ROD STORAGE: Handcrafted solid pine round spinning fishing pole rack stores and displays up to 30 rods (rods not included)
  • SWIVEL SYSTEM: Ultra glide swivel system allows smooth 360 degree access to all rods
  • VERSATILE: Soft rod clips adjust to any rod taper for maximum versatility
  • RUSTIC STYLE: Checking is the natural drying process that creates splits in the wood for that true rustic look
  • OFFICIAL RACK SIZE: Rack measures 17.5" L x 17.5" W x 33.1" H; easy to assemble

User questions & answers

Question: Is the 30 rod holder available in the dark wood color
Answer: This is synthetic, never from animal bile.
Question: Do I need a extension piece For the center shaft so that it will receive my large saltwater rods, or does it come with it
Answer: 15
Question: Lots of bad reviews is it as good as people say
Answer: 25
Question: My rods are saltwater, mostly 7 feet, and two are 8 feet. Will there be a limitation on using your rack for 1. such longer rods? 2. limitation on t
Answer: It doesn’t. I like to use a 1/32
Question: How long is it
Answer: It depends on what species you are targeting, but generally I have good luck with crawfish colored or silver/gold (anything that looks like bait).

Product features

Round Spinning 30 Fishing Rod Rack

Make the most of your available space with this attractive and functional cylindrical fishing rod rack, capable of securely holding up to 30 fishing rods (not included). Plus with 6 special rod clips featuring Dual Clip Technology, this rack can hold 2 freshwater rods or 1 saltwater rod up to 1.25 inches in diameter in the same clip! Enjoy smooth 360-degree rotation with the ultra glide swivel system on the base plate for easy access to your rods. The durable wood construction delivers a traditional-looking rod rack, making this essential for any sportsman and fishing enthusiast.

Holds 30 Rods

Store up to 30 rods to provide optimal security and organization for your favorite rods.

Dual Clip Technology

Dual Clip Technology is an innovative design intended to store 2 freshwater rods or 1 saltwater rod.

No Tool Assembly

No Tool Assembly allows for a stress-free set up so you can get outdoors in no time.

360-Degree Movement

360-Degree movement provides an easy-to-use experience and optimal accessibility.

Protect Your Gear

Store up to 30 rods with featured dual clip technology that allows for 2 freshwater or 1 saltwater rod in each clip.

Sturdy Storage

Swivel system on base plate offers smooth 360 degree rotation for optimal accessibility and style.

Classic, Rustic Design

Marine grade varnished seal coat is water resistant and will be a seamless addition to existing home decor.

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