Walleye fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers. These fish are known for their tasty meat and challenging nature. Catching walleye often requires specific techniques and gear. Trolling is commonly used to catch these elusive fish, and having the right rod can make a big difference.
Trolling rods for walleye are designed to handle the unique demands of this fishing style. These rods are typically longer than standard fishing rods, allowing for better trolling control and sensitivity. They also have a more flexible tip to detect subtle bites and a strong backbone to fight larger fish.
When choosing a trolling rod for walleye, it’s important to consider the rod’s length, power, and action. The right combination of these factors can greatly improve your chances of success on the water. We spent many hours researching and testing various trolling rods for walleye to find the best options for anglers of all skill levels.
Best Trolling Rods for Walleye
We’ve rounded up the top trolling rods for walleye fishing. Our picks offer the right balance of sensitivity and strength to help you land more fish. These rods are designed to handle the specific techniques and lures used in walleye trolling.
Okuma Great Lakes Trolling Combo
We think this combo is a solid choice for walleye trolling, offering good value for its price point.
Pros
- Strong E-Glass blank construction
- Versatile 8.5-foot medium action
- Smooth aluminum oxide guides
Cons
- Some reports of breakage
- It may be too light for larger fish
- Reel quality could be better
We recently tried out the Okuma Great Lakes Trolling Combo, and it left us with mixed feelings. The rod feels nice in hand, with its 8.5-foot length providing good reach for trolling setups. Its medium action gives enough backbone to handle most walleye, while still having some flex to detect lighter bites.
The E-Glass blank seems tough and should stand up to regular use. We liked the smooth action of the aluminum oxide guides, which helped our line flow freely. The Magda 30 reel that comes with it works okay but isn’t anything special. It gets the job done for most walleye fishing, but serious anglers might want to upgrade.
We had some concerns about durability. A few users reported rods breaking on their first outing. While we didn’t have this issue, it’s something to keep in mind. The combo might struggle with bigger fish like salmon or lake trout. For walleye trolling though, it should work well for most anglers. At this price, it’s a decent starter combo or backup option for your boat.
Ugly Stik Walleye Combo
We recommend this Ugly Stik combo for anglers seeking a reliable and versatile setup for walleye fishing.
Pros
- Strong and sensitive rod construction
- Comfortable EVA handle
- Smooth reel operation
Cons
- Reel quality could be better
- It may be too heavy for some users
- Limited line capacity
The Ugly Stik Walleye Combo is a solid choice for anglers targeting walleye. We found the 7’6″ rod to be just right for trolling and casting. Its Ugly Tech construction blends graphite and fiberglass, giving us a nice balance of strength and sensitivity.
When we tested this combo, the rod’s Clear Tip design helped us detect even the lightest bites. The EVA handle felt good in our hands, even after hours of use. We liked the reel’s double paddle aluminum handles and on/off bait clicker.
The size 20 conventional reel worked well enough, but it’s not top-tier. Its 2-ball bearing system was smooth, and the star drag system let us fight fish on our terms. The 5.1:1 gear ratio gave us decent cranking power. We found the 6-12 lb line rating and medium-light power suitable for most walleye fishing situations.
St. Croix Eyecon Trolling Rod
We highly recommend this top-quality trolling rod for serious walleye anglers looking to up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight yet powerful
- Super sensitive for detecting bites
- Premium materials and construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- Only comes in one piece
- It may be too specialized for casual anglers
The St. Croix Eyecon Trolling Rod is a game-changer for walleye fishing. We were blown away by how light it felt in our hands, yet it packed plenty of power when we hooked into fish. The blend of SCII Carbon and S-glass gives it just the right mix of strength and sensitivity.
When we took it out on the water, we noticed right away how well it picked up even the lightest bites. The Kigan Master Hand 3D guides helped our line flow smoothly, reducing friction and improving casting distance. The premium EVA handle gave us a comfy grip even after hours of use.
We love that this rod is made in the USA and backed by a solid 5-year warranty. While it’s a bit pricey, we think the quality justifies the cost for anglers who are serious about their walleye fishing. It’s a specialized tool that might be overkill for casual weekend fishers, but for those who live for trolling walleye, it’s hard to beat.
Daiwa Accudepth Trolling Rod
We recommend this rod for its quality construction and versatility at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Durable graphite composite blank
- Comfortable Air Foam grips
- Versatile for salmon and walleye
Cons
- Flared butt end can be tricky with rod holders
- It may be too long for some anglers at 8 feet
- Limited warranty of only one year
We’ve spent time on the water with this Daiwa Accudepth trolling rod, and it’s a solid choice for targeting walleye and salmon. The graphite composite blank gives it a nice balance of power and sensitivity. We could feel the subtle bites while still having enough backbone to fight bigger fish.
The Air Foam grips felt good in our hands, even after hours of trolling. They didn’t get slippery when wet, which is a big plus. The aluminum oxide guides held up well to our braided line without any visible wear.
One thing to note is the flared butt end. While it gives a nice grip, it can be a pain to slide in and out of some rod holders. The 8-foot length provides good leverage but might be too long for some anglers or smaller boats. Despite these minor issues, we found this rod to be a great value for its performance on the water.
Norsemen Walleye Trolling Rod
We recommend this telescopic trolling rod for walleye anglers seeking a versatile and compact option.
Pros
- Telescopes for easy storage
- Specialized action for light-biting fish
- Suitable for various trolling techniques
Cons
- Limited availability due to high demand
- It may be too light for larger fish
- Some users report breakage issues
We’ve had the chance to test out this Norsemen trolling rod, and it’s clear why it’s a top seller. The 8’6″ medium action rod is perfect for use with planer boards, Dipsy Divers, and lead core lines. Its telescopic design is a game-changer, allowing us to easily fit it in our rod lockers.
When we used this rod for trolling with spinners and crankbaits, we noticed its specialized action really shines for those light-biting walleye. The soft tip gives fish just enough resistance to grab the bait without feeling too much pressure. We found it works great in both shallow and deep water situations.
One thing to keep in mind is the rod’s lighter design. While it’s ideal for smaller planer boards and finesse presentations, it might not be the best choice for targeting larger fish or using heavier lures. We also noticed it can be tricky to find in stock due to its popularity.
Buying Guide
When shopping for walleye trolling rods, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. We’ll break down the most important things to look for:
Length
Trolling rods for walleye typically range from 7 to 9 feet long. Shorter rods offer more control, while longer ones provide better sensitivity.
Power
The rod’s power refers to its stiffness. For walleye, medium to medium-heavy power works well in most situations.
Action
Fast-action rods are ideal for trolling walleye. They bend mainly near the tip, allowing for quick hook sets.
Material
Graphite and fiberglass are common rod materials. Graphite is lighter and more sensitive, while fiberglass is more durable.
Line Guides
Look for quality line guides that can handle the stress of trolling. Ceramic guides are a good choice for their smoothness and durability.
Reel Seat
A sturdy reel seat is crucial for keeping your reel secure during long trolling sessions.
Handle
Cork or EVA foam handles provide comfort during extended use. Split-grip designs can reduce weight.
Here’s a quick reference table for walleye trolling rod specifications:
| Feature | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| Length | 7-9 feet |
| Power | Medium to Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
By considering these factors, we can choose a trolling rod that suits our walleye fishing needs.
Trolling rods for walleye: FAQ
Many anglers have questions about choosing and using trolling rods for walleye fishing. We’ll address some common queries to help you select the right equipment.
What are the characteristics of an ideal walleye trolling rod?
An ideal walleye trolling rod is sensitive yet strong. It should be 7 to 9 feet long with medium to medium-heavy power. The rod needs a fast action tip to detect light bites. Look for quality guides that can handle braided line.
How do I choose the right trolling rod and reel combo for walleye fishing?
Pick a rod that matches your fishing style and boat setup. For the reel, choose a line counter model. This helps track lure depth and distance. Make sure the reel size fits the rod and can hold enough line for deep trolling.
Which features are important when looking for a walleye trolling rod with a line counter?
A good line counter should be easy to read and reset. Look for smooth drag systems and sturdy construction. Some anglers prefer digital counters for accuracy. Check that the counter works well with your chosen line type.
What factors should I consider when selecting the length and action of a trolling rod for walleye?
Rod length affects lure control and fish-fighting ability. Longer rods allow for wider trolling spreads. Action impacts sensitivity and hook-setting power. Fast-action rods work well for most walleye trolling techniques.
Can you recommend a rod setup for effectively trolling for walleye?
We suggest an 8’6″ medium-power, fast-action rod paired with a line counter reel. Spool it with a 10-pound braided line and a fluorocarbon leader. This setup works well for various walleye trolling methods.
What are some recommended brands for high-quality walleye trolling rods?
St. Croix, Shimano, and G. Loomis make excellent walleye trolling rods. Okuma and Daiwa offer good options at lower price points. Local tackle shops often carry rods designed for regional walleye fishing conditions.