10 Best Surf Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

The PENN 10’ Pursuit IV Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is a solid choice for surf fishing enthusiasts. With its 10-foot length, it provides excellent casting distance, which is crucial for reaching fish in deeper waters. The 2-piece design makes it easy to transport while maintaining a sturdy feel. The graphite composite construction offers a good balance between durability and weight, allowing for comfortable handling during long fishing sessions.

One standout feature of this combo is its HT-100 front drag system, which ensures smooth performance when reeling in fish. The gear ratio of 4.7:1 contributes to a decent recovery rate, making it easier to control your catch. Additionally, the 20-40 lb line rating provides flexibility for various fishing scenarios, accommodating both mono and braided lines. However, there are a few drawbacks you should keep in mind. While the rod is marketed as suitable for all skill levels, beginners might find the setup a bit cumbersome due to its length and weight. Some users have noted that the reel could feel slightly underpowered when dealing with larger fish, which may require a bit more effort to manage. The split EVA handle is designed for both right and left-handed anglers, but some might find it less comfortable than solid handles.

The PENN Pursuit IV is a reliable surf fishing rod and reel combo that performs well in most conditions. It’s best suited for casual to intermediate anglers looking for a dependable setup, though those targeting larger species might want to consider options with more power and features.

The PENN 7' Spinfisher VII Spinning Fishing Rod & 8500 Reel Combo is a robust option for surf-fishing enthusiasts. With a length of 7 feet, it offers a good balance of reach and control. The rod's heavy power rating makes it suitable for catching larger and stronger fish, and it supports a line rating between 20-40 pounds. This ensures that it can handle demanding fishing conditions.

The fast action of the rod allows for quick and responsive movements, which is advantageous when fishing in surf environments where speed and precision are key. Constructed from tubular fiberglass, the rod is highly durable and resistant to breaking, which is essential for handling the rough conditions of surf fishing. The aluminum reel adds to the sturdiness while maintaining a relatively lightweight feel for easier handling.

The handle is designed to provide a comfortable grip, which is beneficial during long fishing sessions. The rod is equipped with 7 one-piece PENN Dura-Guides, which are designed to withstand the stress of high-tension lines and provide smooth line management. The IPX5 sealed reel body ensures that water and salt do not easily penetrate the reel, prolonging its life and performance. The CNC gear technology with a brass main gear and a 4.7:1 gear ratio ensures smooth and reliable operation, while the 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearings and instant anti-reverse feature enhance the fishing experience. The PENN Spinfisher VII offers a solid combination of durability, power, and advanced features, making it a worthy investment for serious anglers.

The PENN Battle IV 8-foot spinning rod and reel combo is designed for surf fishing enthusiasts who want a durable and powerful setup to handle medium-heavy saltwater species like redfish. Its 8-foot length provides good casting distance and control along the shoreline. The rod is made from a graphite composite, which strikes a nice balance between lightweight and strength, helping reduce fatigue during long fishing sessions. It features six PENN Dura-Guides that resist corrosion and wear in both fresh and saltwater environments, ensuring smooth line flow. The combo's medium-heavy power rating means it can manage larger fish without feeling too stiff or too flexible.

The reel complements the rod well, boasting a strong full metal body, CNC gears for smooth operation, and an HT-100 drag system that handles up to 25 pounds of pressure, which is useful when reeling in strong fighters. With a gear ratio of 5.6:1, it offers a decent line retrieval speed without sacrificing control. The combo weighs around 5 pounds, which is reasonable for surf fishing gear, but could be slightly heavy for anglers who prefer ultra-light setups. The two-piece rod design makes transportation easier but may slightly reduce sensitivity compared to one-piece rods.

This combo is well-built to last and perform in tough saltwater conditions and is best suited for anglers targeting medium to large species rather than beginners or those after ultra-light finesse fishing. Customer reviews generally praise its durability and power, though some mention the weight and feel may take a little getting used to. It proves to be a solid, reliable choice for anglers wanting a rugged surf fishing rod and reel combo that can handle big fish and rough conditions without breaking the bank.