TOP-6. The best spinning rods for pike. Rating 2021!

Fishing gear has long become a separate market segment. Spinning rods occupy a large place in it. There are a huge number of different models in different price categories. But not all fishermen want to spend very large sums on such devices. Such buyers will be interested in cheap spinning rods. Below is a rating of models based on customer reviews. The rating is divided into several parts depending on the design features.

The best manufacturers of spinning rods

Currently, a special trend has emerged in the spinning rod market: companies from the USA and Japan firmly hold leading positions in the production of the best fishing equipment. The main contribution to the development of such success and retention of the audience on their products is made by the following companies:

St. Croix (USA). The spinning rods of this company are characterized by high quality blanks, a fairly low price, but are mediocre in terms of design.

Shimano and Daiwa (Japan). These companies belong to the category of manufacturers of mass-produced spinning rods. The overall quality of the products is high, but the forms are weaker than those of American competitors.

Graphiteleader and Major Craft (Japan). The companies represent a separate caste of manufacturers of exclusive spinning rods. The products are in no way inferior in quality and reliability to the standard American ones, and from a design point of view they even surpass them. However, the price tag can scare off the average fisherman, since it is aimed at a more expensive audience.

Among these companies, the South Korean company Black Hole, which produces spinning rods commissioned by the Russian side, is not lost. The products produced are of high quality and, most importantly, budget analogues of Japanese and American equipment, and this affects the naturally high demand and popularity.

The most important parameter of a spinning rod, regardless of its design, purpose and other characteristics, is the test. It represents the current range of baits used, which ensures ideal and precise performance of the rod. Precise operation implies accuracy and maximum casting range, light and delicate wiring, as well as good sensitivity when biting.

Spinning rods have a special classification developed based on the test. Typically, each company presents its own type of this classification, but in its standard form there are only four classes:

Ultralight (UL). The very first, ultra-light and most common class. It is characterized by the thinnest fishing lines: mono (0.09 - 0.16 mm) and braided (0.07 - 0.11 mm). The weight of baits is 3-10 grams.
Light (L). A class of light baits, the weight of which varies from 10 to 20 grams. The thickness of the fishing line greatly depends on the specific conditions in which the fishing is carried out.
Medium (M). Middle class, the weight of baits in which reaches 20-30 grams. Mono lines (0.25 - 0.3 mm) and braided lines (0.17 - 0.19 mm) are used.
Heavy (H). The heaviest class of baits is from 40 to 80 grams and above.

The best budget spinning rods

As practice shows, budget spinning rods are in greatest demand among numerous buyers. The quality criterion in this case recedes into the background, but is also important. Such spinning rods have rather modest characteristics, but are capable of faithfully serving several full fishing seasons.

3 Maximus Work Horse SWH21M

In third place in the rating is the spinning rod of the Maximus Work Horse SWH21M model. The young Korean fish entered the Russian market relatively recently, but immediately received support from experienced fishermen. The two-section medium spinning rod is designed for fishing in both deep water and shallow water. Korean craftsmen have specially adapted the model for various types of bait, so it is ideal for jigging.

Advantages:

rod length (2.1 meters);
compact when folded (only 1.05 meters);
reliable when fishing for large fish - can withstand line loads of up to 10 kilograms;
pleasant appearance;
sensitive even to weak bites (which is very atypical for medium spinning rods).

Flaws:

not detected.

2 Black Hole Junior 632M/10-35

An honorable second place goes to the recognized model Black Hole Junior 632M/10-35. The Black Hole company has long been known to anglers, first of all, for the good quality of its products. As for the model itself, the main advantage here is the design. The medium-fast action of the spinning rod and the proprietary tubular tip provide excellent sensitivity even with weak bites, and the overall rigidity and strength allow it to withstand line loads of up to 9 kilograms. In general, this spinning rod is an ideal model for jig fishing.

Advantages:

acceptable quality;
high degree of reliability;
special storage case included;
transport length (101 centimeters);
light weight (117 grams).

Flaws:

not detected.

As a beginner, it is difficult for an angler to understand the differences between twitching and jigging. There is a lot of gossip and controversy, discussions and everyday discussions surrounding this topic. Let's figure out what the main difference between one method and another is.

Jig. All-season method of wiring and fishing. The essence of its work is as follows: after casting the spinning rod, the bait smoothly sinks to the bottom. After waiting a few seconds, a sharp jerk is made with the spinning rod and the line is quickly reeled in by the reel three to four turns. This action provides an interesting “game” of the bait, which immediately attracts the attention of the fish. It is noteworthy that for this method it is advisable to use light baits (for example, a silicone tail) with small weights of 10-12 grams. The use of heavier weights speeds up the process of lowering the bait to the bottom, and therefore the time it “flickers” decreases.

Twitching. It is most good in places where small fish gather in large numbers, regardless of the time of year and place of fishing. In this case, the bait is a wobbler, and the fishing method is as follows: after casting the spinning rod and lowering the bait to the bottom, frequent and intense jerks of the rod occur, approximately once every two seconds. The line is not pulled up by the reel - all the work is done exclusively by the spinning rod. You can vary the strength of the jerks, changing the behavior of the wobbler, and thereby force the fish to pay attention to the bait skillfully slipped to it.

1 Shimano ALIVIO CX SUPER SENSITIVE 300 ML

The best budget spinning rod is the ALIVIO CX SUPER SENSITIVE 300 ML model, produced by the famous Japanese company. The plug-in two-section rod is designed for twitching, mainly for light baits and special spinners. The light class, combined with a medium-fast action, very clearly transfers the slightest vibrations to the carbon blank. The total length of the spinning rod is 3 meters, which allows you to fish directly from the shore without much effort. And the price of a high-quality model, of course, can please not only beginners, but also experienced fishermen.

Advantages:

low cost with excellent quality;
rod length (3 meters);
the presence of 11 rings made of patented material Shimano Hardlite;
The kit includes a polyethylene case.

Flaws:

not detected.

MIKADO NIHONTO MH TELESPIN 300 (WAA268-300)

MIKADO NIHONTO MH TELESPIN 300 is the flagship model among Mikado telescopic spinning rods. The scope of application of this spinning rod is designed for medium-sized jig and rotating baits, the weight of which can vary from 10 to 40 grams, which allows you to successfully fight small and medium-sized predatory fish. The advantages include a sensitive carbon blank, medium-fast action, which allows you to successfully use the widest range of fishing lures. When unfolded, the length of this spinning rod is 3 meters, and during transportation and storage it becomes very compact and is only 75 cm long. The MIKADO NIHONTO MH TELESPIN weighs only 137 grams due to the use of carbon fiber and a foam rubber handle. Also, the overall weight of the spinning rod is reduced due to the use of lightweight rings with SiC inserts on dovetail legs. Among other features of this spinning rod, it is worth noting the reel seat of a classic design and ergonomic recesses for fingers for easy grip and a clamping nut combined with the lower handle. Also, it comes with a shipping case and during transportation the spinning rod rings can be completely covered with a plastic cap and centered. In general, if you need a compact spinning rod that is ideal for fishing in various bodies of water using a variety of baits, then I recommend paying attention to this model.

Material: carbon.
Build quickly.
Fittings: SiC.
Telescopic design.
Neoprene handle.
Length: 300 cm.
Weight: 137 gr.
Test: 10 – 40 gr.
Number of sections: 7.

The best ultra-light spinning rods (ultralight): casting weight 1-10 g

Despite their “poetic” name, ultra-light spinning rods are designed to catch not small fish. With such a tool, an experienced fisherman is able to fish out even trophy specimens, and the spinning rod itself is ready to withstand large weight loads. And even though the maximum strength values are not as high as those of medium and heavy samples, they have all the necessary characteristics for successful and productive fishing.

3 Graphiteleader Bellezza Correntia GLBCS-682UL-TW

The Graphiteleader Bellezza Correntia GLBCS-682UL-TW spinning rod, which is in third place in the rating, belongs to the category of exclusive models produced by the well-known Japanese company Graphiteleader. Thanks to the inclusion of lightweight materials in the production, it weighs only 73 grams, which has a positive effect on both ease of use and the finest bites (which is also facilitated by the ultralight class). Despite its apparent fragility, this spinning rod can withstand a line load of about 2.7 kilograms. It is ideal for twitching in medium depth waters.

Advantages:

very light spinning rod;
transport length is about 1.04 meters;
nominal length 2.03 meters;
brand quality.

Flaws:

high cost (exclusive model).

2 Maximus Ichiro MSI22UL

The Ichiro MSI22UL ultralight fishing rod is based on the latest developments of the Maximus company, the implementation of which allowed the model to be included in the rating of the best. At a virtually low cost, a 220-centimeter spinning rod offers consumers good endurance indicators, which are confirmed in stubborn confrontation with a large predator. It has a test range of 1-7 grams, throughout which it shows miracles of sensitivity and very accurately “reports” the position of the bait to the angler.

Judging by the reviews, the tenacious and comfortable EVA handle, which ensures comfortable placement of the spinning rod in the hand, received the greatest approval from consumers. The competent selection of rod construction, ideally adapted to its overall and mechanical parameters, also received a portion of positive marks. According to everyone, Ichiro MSI22UL, like no one else, deserves the title of “honorary expert” in the field of perch and ide fishing.

1 Salmo TIOGA 2.37 m U-Light

The ultralight plug-in rod from Salmo is a model of moderation in the overly unstable fishing rod market. Having absorbed the maximum available standards of strength and reliability, it is a real fighter, capable of catching quite good fish. In a rather limited lure test, the range of which is 0.5-5.5 grams, the maximum possible line load reaches almost 3 kilograms.

For all its flexibility, the TIOGA 2.37 m U-Light has good long-casting properties, which is greatly facilitated by the fast action. The most remarkable fact for users is that with an actual length of 237 centimeters, the rod weighs only 93 grams and does not put any strain on the hand during long fishing. This is an excellent tool for catching large perches and small pike, the cost of which slightly exceeds the standard of universal availability.

Top premium spinning rods

Apia Legacy SC Bull Force 80MT

An attractive model that guarantees the user reliability for the entire period of use. The weight of the rod is 90 grams, so a person will hardly notice the product in his hands. The type of handle used is spaced. The rings are produced by a popular company, so there is no doubt about their quality. The total length is 2.44 m, so difficulties may arise when fishing from the shore.

The average cost is 35,460 rubles.

Apia Legacy SC Bull Force 80MT

Advantages:

Weight – 90 grams, which ensures comfort;
Blanc is made of durable material;
Good build;
Convenient storage;
Ergonomics.

Flaws:

Not found.

Graphiteleader Super Vivo GSVLS-792M

An expensive option that is aimed at professional use. The product impresses with its good technical properties, which allows it to be classified as universal. Lure test – 7-30 g. Total length is – 2.36 m. Total weight – 112 grams. To achieve this indicator, lightweight material was used, but the fishing rod remains strong and reliable.

The average cost is 60,450 rubles.

Graphiteleader Super Vivo GSVLS-792M

Advantages:

Good lure test;
Fuji Titanium Torzite Rings;
Light weight;
Durability;
Strength indicators.

Flaws:

High price.

Apia Foojin AD Natural Seven 77MH

If amateur fishing does not bring pleasure and a person wants to reach a professional level, it is worth trying out this model. The design is made of lightweight but durable materials that can withstand high loads. The bait test is 12-42 g, which is an additional advantage, as it allows you to hunt a variety of fish. The total weight of the rod is 150 grams. The handle is made in a combined way, which increases the overall efficiency of the device.

Sold at a price: from 38,920 rubles.

Apia Foojin AD Natural Seven 77MH

Advantages:

Withstands high loads;
Lightness and strength;
Fast build;
Ergonomics;
Life time.

Flaws:

Not found.

The best light spinning rods: casting weight 10-20 g

Unlike ultra-light ones, light spinning rods are designed for catching larger fish, since the maximum tension of the fishing line and the increased weight of the bait allow them to withstand greater stress. In general, the difference between them is small, but the paradox is that prices for light models are often lower than for the ultralight class.

3 Major Craft RIZER RZS-742ML

Probably, the Major Craft RIZER RZS-742ML spinning rod is worthy of a higher position, but the price component does not allow it to be placed higher than third place. This exclusive spinning rod for jigging and twitching is made with Fuji Alconite guides, an ergonomic Fuji reel seat and a comfortable cork handle. The model test allows you to use bait weighing from 3 to 15 grams. Looking at these and other characteristics, it cannot be said that the cost corresponds to the available functionality. Users note the good performance and durability of the spinning rod, but in general they prefer cheaper models.

Advantages:

possibility of long-term operation;
pleasant appearance;
The length of the rod is 2.24 meters.

Flaws:

inflated price, overpaid mainly for the brand.

2 Maximus Ultimatum MSU21L

One step away from first place was the Korean spinning rod Maximus Ultimatum MSU21L, which captivated users with its low price and good design parameters. When developing this model, the Koreans from Maximus focused on versatility, so the spinning rod can be used both for jigging and twitching with wobblers. A very fast action coupled with low weight (88 grams) gives good sensitivity of the blank, and the neoprene handle allows you to comfortably hold the rod even when fishing for trophy fish.

Advantages:

low cost;
light weight;
high-quality plug spinning rod.

Flaws:

weak rings.

1 Shimano CATANA CX TELESPIN 165 UL

Shimano spinning rods are once again celebrating their championship. This time the best in the category of light spinning rods was the model of the famous series - CATANA CX TELESPIN 165 UL. The small size of the telescopic spinning rod (165 centimeters) does not pose a serious problem at all, but acts as a kind of advantage - you can easily fish with it not only from the shore, but also directly from the boat. The form is made of composite, so there is no need to worry about strength. And the price can please you: spinning rods are affordable for budget consumers, which is an important success factor.

Advantages:

low price;
branded quality and reliability;
high-strength form made of composite material;
transport length (only 45 centimeters);
good equipment;
light weight (89 grams).

Flaws:

Some users note that the handle is not very comfortable.

Plug

Japanese

Shimano Catana EX Spinning 240UL

pros

Relatively low cost
Light weight -139 g
Comfortable handle
Easy to use
Nice case included

Minuses

Quite a long transport length – 1.23 m

From 4,350 ₽

Spinning rod with medium-fast action. Belongs to the light class. The length of the rod is 2.4 m. When folded, the spinning rod has a length of 1.23 m. The design is plug-in, consisting of two sections. The weight of the device is only 139 g. This allows you to work with the fishing rod for a long time without fatigue. 7 rings installed. Users find the cork handle very comfortable.

DAIWA SWEEPFIRE 502 ULFS (SW502ULFS)

pros

Low cost
Convenience
Reliability
Compactness
Nice appearance
Quality titanium oxide rings

Minuses

Short length

From 1,500 ₽

Plug rod from a Japanese manufacturer. The blank is made of carbon fiber and carbon. This ensured the structure was lightweight and durable. The rod has excellent flexibility and elasticity. The folded length is only 0.77 m. When unfolded, it is 1.5 m. The cork handle provides a secure hold and a comfortable grip.

American

St.Croix Legend Elite LES70MLF2

pros

High quality
Resistant to heavy loads
Comfortable grip
Light weight

Minuses

High price

From 25,000 ₽

Top American spinning rod with a blank made of carbon fiber and carbon fiber, which can withstand line loads from 2.5 to 4.7 kg. The length of the rod is 2.13 m. The fast action spinning rod is made using the best materials, which significantly affect the weight. The device weighs only 98 g. In addition to the blank, it includes a cork handle and a reliable reel seat.

G.Loomis STR 1044 S

pros

Convenient design
Reliable rings
Special blank material
long length

Minuses

High price

From 22,000 ₽

Fast action spinning rod, designed for loads from 3.6 to 5.4 kg. The length of the rod was 2.68 m. This is enough for most fishing needs. The form is made of a special composite material, which ensures low weight of the structure. It is worth noting that the spinning rod is designed for fishing in fresh water.

The best medium spinning rods: casting weight 20-40 g

A particularly strong difference in class begins to be visible when moving from light to medium spinning rods. The latter are designed for fishing at significant depths and accepting even stronger loads on the line. If the fisherman’s main goal is to focus on the rigidity and strength of the spinning rod, the middle class is exactly what is needed. However, in this case, you should sacrifice high sensitivity, since the spinning rod will not respond to weak bites.

3 Maximus High Energy-X MSHEX27M

Third place rightfully goes to the Maximus High Energy-X MSHEX27M spinning rod. Objectively, it does not have any outstanding characteristics, but is highly rated by numerous users. Its fast action and weight range from 7 to 35 grams allows it to be used productively for both jigging and twitching. The length of the rod is 2.7 meters, which makes it possible to fish quite comfortably from a steep bank that goes sharply into the depths. When folded, its length is only 1.35 meters, which is very convenient for transportation.

Advantages:

low cost;
pretty good quality;
overall length of the rod;
versatility.

Flaws:

not very comfortable cork handle;
weak rings.

2 Shimano VENGEANCE AX SPIN TELE 240 M (SVAXTE240M)

The telescopic six-section spinning rod Shimano VENGEANCE AX SPIN TELE 240 M (SVAXTE240M) fell just short of first place. The main advantage of this rod can be considered compactness. When folded, its length is only 68 centimeters, and when unfolded it is almost 2.4 meters. Otherwise, this is a typical representative - high-quality, no frills, not devoid of designer chic. And the price of the model can please even a budget buyer.

Advantages:

pleasant appearance;
strong and reliable design;
brand quality;
attractive price;
Compact when folded.

Flaws:

none.

1 Graphiteleader Vivo Prototype GVOPS-842M

The exclusive plug-in two-stage spinning rod Graphiteleader Vivo Prototype GVOPS-842M is taking a leading position. The main and only drawback of this model is the prohibitively high price, aimed at the “money” consumer. In general, the trend is clear: this spinning rod is created for those who want to fish not only productively, but also beautifully. It is rated at 9.9 kilograms of maximum force applied to the line, which is very good for mid-range rods. For convenient carrying, the spinning rod comes with a case, the absence of which would be unforgivable, given the total cost.

Advantages:

excellent quality guaranteed by the manufacturer;
attractive design;
ergonomic handle;
excellent casting accuracy;
suitable for jigging and twitching;
can withstand up to 9.9 kilograms of load.

Flaws:

high price.

Telescopic

MIKADO FISH HUNTER TELESPIN 300 (WAA008-300)

pros

Low cost
Comfortable handle
Big sizes
Protective plastic cap included
Light weight

Minuses

Not very elastic spinning rod

From 980 ₽

The rating of budget spinning rods 2021 begins with a telescopic rod with a maximum length of 3 m. When folded, the model has a length of 0.65 m. These dimensions allow you to carry it with you without any problems. A slow action rod belongs to the middle class. Weight is only 245 g. The telescopic design consists of 7 sections made of fiberglass. Additionally there are rings and a protective cap.

Salmo AGGRESSOR TRAVEL SPIN 20 (5424-240)

pros

Light severity
Reliable materials
Convenient cork holder
Screw reel seat

Minuses

May not be long enough

From 1,700 ₽

2.4 m long spinning rod made from innovative materials. The blank is made of carbon and carbon fiber. The cork handle provides a secure grip. The rod consists of 7 sections. The transport size does not exceed 0.63 m. At the same time, the weight of the structure is only 134 g. The model is equipped with a durable screw-type reel seat.

KOSADAKA Scorp Tele 210 M (SSRPTE210M)

pros

Low cost
Reliable and durable materials in construction
Convenient case included
Strong rings

Minuses

Short length

From 1,000 ₽

A middle class fishing rod with a spinning design. The overall size is 2.1 m. For most needs, this length will be quite sufficient. However, for a number of specific tasks it may not be enough. The model is made of carbon and carbon fiber. These materials guarantee high reliability of the structure even under intensive use conditions.

The best heavy spinning rods: casting weight from 40 g

3 DAIWA PROCASTER SPIN 2.70/40-80

The most budget-friendly and at the same time the most reliable entry-level spinning rod, produced by the famous Japanese company Daiwa. PROCASTER SPIN 2.70/40-80 is extremely convenient to use, especially when fishing with baits whose test is close to the upper recommended limit (80 grams). With a length of 270 centimeters, it weighs 205 grams and has a fast action, thanks to which anglers can make long casts without problems and without fatigue. The strength of the structure as a whole is ensured by the material of the blank – high-modulus graphite, developed using a special technology from a Japanese manufacturer.

User reviews of the PROCASTER SPIN 2.70/40-80 clearly reflect the fact that you don’t have to spend a lot of money for productive fishing. Yes, this rod is not without flaws: the sensitivity at the lower limit of the test (40 grams) leaves much to be desired, and the fittings do not inspire too much confidence. However, for such a sum it is unlikely that you will be able to find anything more durable.

2 Major Craft DODGER DGS-832HH

The iconic fishing rod from Major Craft, which has received repeated awards from prestigious fishing publishers around the world, also received a place in the ranking. With a length of 252 centimeters, its weight is only 185 grams. Such indicators were achieved, first of all, by using HMC carbon blank of increased strength and rigidity as a material. The plug-in design of the spinning rod ensures a lower probability of breakage when fighting a trophy predator, and also adds sensors when retrieving.

Users who purchased Major Craft DODGER DGS-832HH note a good correspondence between the cost parameters and the nominal quality. In particular, special attention is paid to the ergonomic component, as well as reliable fittings from Fuji. According to their reviews, the rod is an ideal equipment for catching river predators common in the reservoirs of a large country (perch, pike, pike perch, asp, chub, ide, etc.)

1 SHIMANO SPEEDMASTER CX 270XH

A professional spinning rod designed to be equipped with heavy baits weighing 42-84 grams. It has a high degree of strength due to the introduction of composite material into production - high-modulus graphite HPC100 and reinforced polymer fibers Biofibre. Slightly affects the mechanical performance and design option - the plug design adds rigidity and is subject to less deformation than the telescopic one.

For consumers, the key features of the SPEEDMASTER CX 270XH are its light weight (only 190 grams), fast action allowing for long casts, and a combined handle that includes cork and neoprene zones. The price of the rod is aimed exclusively at skilled fishermen who are able to “squeeze” the full potential out of the fishing process. It is ideal for hunting large pike, asp, pike perch in still rivers, as well as trout in fast currents.

Universal spinning rods for beginners

SHIMANO CATANA EX TELESPIN 210 M (SCATEXTE21M)

pros

average cost
Light weight
Easy to use
Compact when folded
Convenient telescopic mechanism

Minuses

Not very long cast

From 4,800 ₽

A universal telescopic spinning rod for beginner fishermen. It is easy to operate and does not require any special knowledge. The design consists of 5 sections, when extended, the length of the rod is 2.1 m. The transport length is only 0.65 m.

MIKADO PURPLE RAIN TELESPIN 3008 (WA-465 300)

pros

Nice rings
Reliability
Ease of use
long length

Minuses

Perceptible weight

From 3,000 ₽

The top spinning rod for a beginner is a 3 m long rod, which has a telescopic system of eight sections. Carbon blank. A large number of sections made it possible to fold the rod up to 0.69 m. However, this also affected the weight of the structure. It was 195 g. A strong carrying case is included with the rod.