Choosing the Best Walleye Fishing Rod: Expert Guide 2023

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Fishing for walleye is a popular activity among anglers because these fish put up a strong fight and are known for their delicious taste. When it comes to choosing the best walleye fishing rod, the right equipment can make all the difference. Walleye fishing rods are specifically designed to provide the sensitivity and strength needed to target walleye in various environments, from deep lakes to shallow rivers.

When shopping for a walleye fishing rod, a few key factors should be considered. Sensitivity is critical, as it allows you to feel the gentle nibbles and bites of a walleye. The rod’s length and action also play a significant role in casting and retrieving lures effectively. Materials and construction quality ensure the rod will withstand the wear and tear of frequent fishing trips.

We evaluated a range of walleye fishing rods to help you find the one that offers balance, sensitivity, and durability. The next section breaks down our top pick and why it stands out.

Best Walleye Fishing Rods

We have researched and picked the top walleye fishing rods. These rods are great for both beginners and seasoned anglers.

Ugly Stik® Walleye Combo

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This fishing rod is a solid choice for anyone targeting walleye with both durability and performance in mind.

Pros

  • Durable construction that can handle tough conditions
  • Sensitive enough to detect light bites
  • Comfortable handle for extended use

Cons

  • The reel may not be as high quality as the rod
  • Slightly heavy for some users
  • May be too long for certain situations

The Ugly Stik® Walleye Combo is designed with both strength and sensitivity, making it ideal for walleye fishing. The rod, constructed with a blend of graphite and fiberglass, provides the toughness needed to battle aggressive fish while still being responsive to subtle bites.

We’ve found that the EVA handle is comfortable to hold, even during long fishing trips. The reel is smooth due to its two ball bearing system, although it might not be as high-end as some anglers prefer. Still, for the price, this combo offers great value.

Additionally, the 7’6” length provides excellent casting distance, though it may feel a bit cumbersome for some fishing environments. All in all, this combo is a reliable partner for those aiming to reel in walleye efficiently.

Shakespeare® Wild Series Walleye Combo

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This combo can be a mixed bag for anglers looking for a budget-friendly rod and reel set.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Sensitive IM-6 graphite rod
  • Comfortable soft touch handle knob

Cons

  • Rod and reel quality issues
  • Components sometimes arrive damaged
  • Durability concerns with the rod breaking

Our experience with the Shakespeare® Wild Series Walleye Combo was a bit of a rollercoaster. The rod’s lightweight design made it easy to handle, especially for long fishing trips. The sensitive IM-6 graphite rod helped us to feel every nibble, making the experience enjoyable.

Unfortunately, we noticed some quality issues that can’t be overlooked. Some components arrived damaged, which was a letdown right out of the box. The reel handle falling out and missing locking screws made us cautious about the overall reliability.

Despite the comfortable soft touch handle knob and decent initial performance, the rod’s durability was a concern. We had a disappointing moment when the rod broke during a crucial fishing session. Ultimately, this combo might work for some, but the inconsistency in quality needs to be considered.

Dead Eye Classic Rod

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This rod offers a great balance of strength and sensitivity for walleye anglers.

Pros

  • Enhanced lifting strength
  • Excellent sensitivity for light bites
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Limited to specific techniques
  • It can feel a bit stiff for some
  • Might be pricey for beginners

We were impressed by the Dead Eye Classic Rod’s build quality. The Ultimate Flex Reinforcement (UFR) technology really makes a difference when it comes to strength. We felt confident pulling in bigger fish without worrying about the rod snapping.

The sensitivity of the rod is another highlight. Even the lightest bites are easily detected, which is crucial for successful walleye fishing. The stainless steel guide frames with titanium oxide inserts also add to the durability, preventing any pop-outs during use.

One thing to note is that this rod is specifically designed for jigging and trolling, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a more versatile option. Additionally, some might find it a bit stiff, which can affect the feel during certain techniques. It is also a bit on the pricier side, which might be a consideration for those new to fishing.

Okuma Dead Eye Pro Walleye Rods

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This rod is a great choice for those who love walleye fishing with precision and ease.

Pros

  • Lightweight, easy to handle
  • Fast action, perfect for walleye
  • Durable build quality

Cons

  • Only available in one size
  • Limited color options
  • Not suitable for other types of fishing

We’ve had the opportunity to take the Okuma Dead Eye Pro Walleye Rod out on several fishing trips. The first thing that stood out was how light it felt in our hands. It’s incredibly easy to maneuver, making long days on the water much more comfortable.

The fast action of the rod really makes a difference when targeting walleye. With this rod, we felt every nibble and were able to set the hook quickly. This feature makes it a top choice for serious walleye anglers looking to increase their catch rates.

While it’s fantastic for walleye, the Dead Eye Pro might not be the best choice if you want a versatile rod for different fish species. It’s also only available in one size and color, which limits personalization.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Okuma Dead Eye Pro delivers outstanding performance and is built to last. If walleye fishing is your focus, we highly recommend giving this rod a try.

St. Croix Avid Walleye Series Rod

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This rod is perfect for those seeking a well-rounded, durable fishing rod for walleye fishing.

Pros

  • The lightweight design makes it easy to handle
  • Excellent sensitivity for feeling bites
  • High-quality Super Grade Cork handle

Cons

  • Higher price point compared to other rods
  • The front grip might be too thick for some
  • The single-piece design makes it less portable

We were impressed with the construction of the St. Croix Avid Walleye Series Rod. The SCIII+ Carbon Fiber provides a lightweight yet strong build, making it easy for us to manage even during long fishing days. The handle, made from premium cork, feels comfortable and reduces fatigue.

This rod’s sensitivity is top-notch. We could feel even the faintest bites, giving us an edge to catch wary walleyes. The fast action also ensures quick hook sets, which is crucial for this type of fishing. Despite its quality, the higher price might be a deterrence for some.

Not all feedback has been positive. Some users with larger hands found the front grip to be a bit bulky. Additionally, as it’s a single-piece rod, transporting it can be less convenient.

Overall, the St. Croix Avid Walleye Series Rod is a solid choice for serious anglers looking for durability, sensitivity, and comfort. If these features are what you need, this rod could be a good investment for your fishing adventures.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best walleye fishing rod, it’s important to know what features to look for.

Rod Length

Length affects casting distance and control. Shorter rods (6-7 feet) offer better control, while longer rods (7-9 feet) provide longer casts.

Power and Action

Power: This refers to how much force it takes to bend the rod.

  • Light: Good for smaller fish.
  • Medium: Versatile and great for walleye.
  • Heavy: Ideal for larger fish.

Action: This describes where the rod bends.

  • Fast: Bends at the tip.
  • Medium: Bends in the middle.
  • Slow: Bends from the handle.

Materials

  • Graphite: Light and sensitive, good for feeling bites.
  • Fiberglass: Durable but less sensitive.
  • Composite: A mix of both, offering good sensitivity and durability.

Handle and Grip

Handles are made of different materials, like cork or EVA foam. Choose a grip that fits your hand well. Cork is light and comfortable, while EVA foam is durable and easy to clean.

Line Weight and Lure Ratings

Always check the rod’s line weight and lure ratings. This ensures the rod can handle the fishing line and lures you’re planning to use.

Rod FeatureOptions
Length6-9 feet
PowerLight, Medium, Heavy
ActionFast, Medium, Slow
MaterialsGraphite, Fiberglass, Composite
HandleCork, EVA Foam
Line WeightAs specified on the rod
Lure RatingsAs specified on the rod

Portability

If we fish in various locations, a portable rod might be helpful. Consider a telescopic or a two-piece rod for easy transport.

By paying attention to these features, we can choose the best rod for catching walleye.

Choosing the Best Walleye Fishing Rod:FAQ

Choosing the best walleye fishing rod can be tricky. We answer some of the most common questions here to help you make the best choice for your fishing needs.

What are the top-rated walleye rods for the year 2024?

For 2024, the top-rated walleye rods include models from St. Croix, Fenwick, and G. Loomis. These brands offer excellent craftsmanship and performance.

How do I choose a walleye rod and reel combo that provides the best value?

Look for combos that balance price and quality. Brands like Shimano and Abu Garcia often provide good value. Check for features such as sensitivity, durability, and a comfortable handle.

What are the recommended specifications for a jigging rod when targeting walleye?

A good jigging rod for walleye should be 6 to 7 feet long and have a medium to medium-light power rating. Fast-action tips help detect bites more effectively.

Which rod length should I select for effective walleye fishing?

For general walleye fishing, rods ranging from 6 to 7 feet are often ideal. Choose a longer rod for casting distance and a shorter one for precision and control.

What line strength is appropriate for catching walleye?

A line strength of 6 to 10 pounds is usually sufficient for walleye. Braided lines with fluorocarbon leaders can offer better sensitivity and durability.

How does gear ratio affect walleye fishing, and what should I look for in a rod and reel setup?

Gear ratio affects retrieval speed. Ratios between 5.2:1 and 6.2:1 are usually best for walleye fishing. Ensure the reel matches the rod’s specifications for length, power, and action.

Kurt

Hi, I’m Kurt and I’m the author of walleyemania. I’ve been fishing for Walleye since I was a kid and I love sharing my tips, tricks, and stories with other anglers. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find something useful and entertaining on my site. I cover everything from the best gear, baits, and techniques to the best spots, seasons, and recipes for Walleye fishing. Join me on my journey to catch more and bigger Walleye!

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