If you’re seeking a new challenge in the world of fishing and are in the market for new gear, a baitcasting rod might be the perfect piece of equipment for you.
There are many two-piece rods that could do the trick; this article will walk you through some of our favorites.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 2 Piece Baitcasting Rods
- OUR TOP PICK: Entsport E Series
- RUNNER-UP: KastKing Perigee II
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: SHIMANO FXC
Comparison of the Best 2 Piece Baitcasting Rods
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What is a Baitcasting Rod?
A baitcasting rod is used for a style of fishing called—you guessed it—baitcasting. They look like a spinning rod flipped over, with the reel sitting on top rather than hanging below. They’re mainly used by advanced anglers because they require a casting technique that can be hard to master.
How to Choose a 2 Piece Baitcasting Rod
If you’re looking for a new 2 piece baitcasting rod, there are several qualities to seek out when you’re browsing online or in your local sporting goods store. Keep the following things in mind:
Quality
As with any piece of fishing equipment, making sure the tool is created with care is the first step to success. A rod made with high-quality material will last longer and perform better than one that isn’t. Check for a full graphite construction if you’re in search of ultimate sensitivity, or a carbon fiber rod if you want something super strong.
Entsport E Series - Camo Legend is 7 feet and made of 24 Ton Carbon Fiber with High Density EVA Handles.
Ease of Use
If you’re brand new to baitcasting, you may want to go for a rod that is more geared towards beginners. Not all baitcasting rods are built the same, and some are much easier to use than others.
Versatility
Are you a saltwater angler? Freshwater? Both? Anyway, you swing it, it’s nice to have a rod that can be used in a variety of angling settings. If possible, try to find one that is corrosion-resistant, so it can be used in both saltwater and freshwater.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Materials: The materials the rod is made of.
- Weight: The actual weight of the reel.
- Guides: The number, material, and type of guides the rod features.
- Length(s): The length(s) this rod is available in.
- Action(s): What actions the rod comes in. This refers to where the rod flexes and includes slow/moderate/moderately-fast/fast/extra fast/ etc.
Review of the Best 2 Piece Baitcasting Rods
Ready to take the steps to find your perfect baitcasting rod? Here’s a list of our favorite products on the market that has kept us going back to the lake over and over again.
Best Overall:
Entsport E Series
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users of this Entsport E Series rod have appreciated the company’s commitment to affordability. It’s quite hard to find a reasonably priced, high-quality rod, but buyers have been satisfied with the effectiveness of the baitcaster. Buyers have also praised its sensitivity and action, but some wished that it was a little more durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Our favorite aspect of this Entsport two-piece rod is the high-quality materials used in construction, which contributes positively to the action and sensitivity of the equipment. It is created with 24-ton carbon fiber that allows for strength when needed and exceptional sensitivity.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is a good choice for anglers who are new to the style of baitcasting. This is a great starter rod because the two-piece design is super portable, it’s not extremely expensive, and in comparison to other baitcasters on the market, it is fairly easy to master.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The Entsport rod would benefit from some structural reinforcement. Some users complained that part of their rod would snap after repeated pressure. It would also be beneficial for the manufacturer to carry more options in terms of action and power, as the line is somewhat limited as is.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a rod that impresses with regards to usability and affordability. If the idea of baitcasting is daunting to you, the Entsport might be the way to go; you won’t be breaking the bank to try something new, and the quality is great for the price.
Product Specs
Materials:
Carbon Fiber & Graphite
Reel Weight:
7.2 oz
Guides:
6+1 stainless steel with ceramic inserts
Length(s):
7 ft
Action(s):
Medium and Medium Heavy
Runner-up:
KastKing Perigee II
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
KastKing is a very popular brand among anglers. Users loved the weight and balance of the Pedigree II baitcasting rods, many saying it contributed to the ease of use overall. Some buyers did complain of quality issues after repeated use, but many say KastKing’s customer service was helpful and willing to resolve issues.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Pedigree II baitcasters earn major points from us for their ergonomic designs. As many anglers know, using a clunky rod for hours can be taxing on the hands and wrists, but KastKing takes pride in making sure their design is comfortable for all day use.
Who Will Use This Most
We would recommend the Pedigree II baitcasters to anglers who’ve been searching for an ultra comfortable rod with slick casting. KastKing is another company that has made a commitment to affordable products, so this is a great brand for those on a budget.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Some users did complain of quality issues, which could be resolved with structural reinforcement. The most common complaint is that the rod tips tended to be less sturdy than desirable. The guiding design was also brought up in customer reviews, as it makes this product more prone to line tangle.
Bottom Line
Although there are some issues with the Pedigree II rod, they don’t overshadow the overall quality of the tool. This is a great pick for anglers on a budget, or those who need something that is a little more comfortable on the body than the average baitcaster.
Product Specs
Materials:
Carbon Fiber & Graphite
Reel Weight:
7.1 oz
Guides:
8+1
Length(s):
7 ft
Action(s):
Fast
Best for the Money:
SHIMANO FXC
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were thrilled by the price of the Shimano FXC rod in comparison to the quality. For a reasonably priced rod, the quality holds up well in the face of large fish. Many complain that it is too physically weighty, which is tough on the body after a long day of fishing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Shimano FXC line rod was notable to us because of the price and quality balance. Shimano is a reliable, well-loved brand in the angling world, and they carried their standards into this line; it’s fortunate that this product carries a price that any angler can afford.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great backup rod, especially with the two-piece construction. While this wouldn’t be our first pick as a primary baitcaster, this is great for traveling and for taking along in ‘just in case’ scenarios. This would also be a good pick for beginners who want to try out baitcasting without breaking the bank.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Because this rod is made with an aeroglass blank, it is very strong, but it’s also pretty stiff and too heavy to feel comfortable for all day use. It also only comes in one power option, so it’s not the most versatile choice.
Bottom Line
For the price, the Shimano FXC is an easy recommendation from us. While you probably wouldn’t want this to be your everyday pick, this is a great baitcaster to start out with or the perfect choice for a backup or travel rod.
Product Specs
Materials:
Aeroglass & EVA
Reel Weight:
7.2 oz
Guides:
Tip +4 Aluminum Oxide
Length(s):
6 ft 6 in
Action(s):
Fast
4. UglyStik GX2
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many anglers who try the UglyStik GX2 have owned an UglyStik in the past. They’re impressed by its high-quality construction and materials and are continually surprised by its strength. The main complaint among buyers is that it’s not comfortable to use for lengthy fishing trips—the short handle can be hard on the wrists and hands.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The UglyStik GX2 earns a spot on our list because it emulates the saying, “simple but effective.” The company took time and care constructing the design of this baitcaster and it shows in production. The graphite and fiberglass composite is a construction that is great for a variety of angling.
Who Will Use This Most
The GX2 line is a good pick for the more advanced anglers who are planning on chasing after big fish. While the rod is fairly sensitive, it really shines in terms of sheer power. It’s great for pulling in big ‘uns.
What Could Be Improved and Why
In order to reach perfection, a couple of things on the GX2 would have to be altered, most notably the handle design. Many users complain that their wrists are in pain after using it because of the weight and the length of the handle. If UglyStick could add a couple more inches to the foam handle, it would improve the design massively.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the UglyStick GX2 is an ultra-reliable rod that we would recommend to any angler in the baitcasting world. It’s a no-frills design that leans on strength and durability to make catches. This is a great pick for anglers looking to step up their game.
Product Specs
Materials:
Graphite & Fiberglass
Reel Weight:
4.8 oz
Guides:
6 ; 7; 8
Length(s):
6 ft ; 6 ft 6 in ; 7 ft
Action(s):
Medium and Medium Heavy
5. Piscifun Torrent
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
For the most part, buyers are happy with the Piscifun Torrent line of rods. They praise the castability, construction, and reasonable price point. Some users said there were quality control issues with their rods (a line guide put on backward, came with a broken tip, etc), but for the most part, they were happy with the quality of the equipment.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This rod made it to our favorites for being an overall well-rounded baitcaster. While it doesn’t have any particular attribute that stands out over others, it is durable, well-constructed, and performs well when it counts. We’re also excited by its ability to move seamlessly between sensitivity and strength.
Who Will Use This Most
The Torrent line is another great set of starter rods. They only come in medium and medium heavy action, which is arguably the most versatile style of rod. They’ll work well for beginners but can also hold their own with a more advanced angler. This would be a great starter rod for a novice or a backup for an expert.
What Could Be Improved and Why
There is definitely room for improvement in the construction of this rod, as it is super heavy. It’s not heavy in terms of action, but in actual weight—this can be hard on the wrists and makes it tough to carry around. If it was a smidge lighter, it would be the perfect piece of equipment to bring on a backpacking trip or to travel with.
Bottom Line
Keep the torrent line of rods from Piscifun in mind when you’re browsing for a new baitcaster. These are a well-rounded group, with only a few minor issues that don’t overshadow their quality.
Product Specs
Materials:
Stainless Steel
Reel Weight:
8.0 oz
Guides:
7+Tip Titanium Oxide
Length(s):
6 ft 9 in
Action(s):
Moderate Fast
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Rod
As demonstrated in our list of baitcasting rods, there’s really no need to break the bank on a rod if it’s not necessary. There are quality rods for a reasonable price, but always make sure you’re doing a little research before buying the cheapest one on the market.
Longevity
If you take the time and money to invest in a high-quality baitcasting rod, chances are it will be well worth it in terms of longevity. In general, quality made materials tend to be more durable, and therefore will last longer on the water. Making an investment now can save you a great deal of frustration later.
Effectiveness
When you splurge for a rod that is made with great materials, you’ll most likely be satisfied with the results. Companies that put time and effort into the construction of their equipment are popular for a reason—they make products that work well.
Know that you don’t have to compromise your budget for the perfect baitcasting rod. There is plenty of high quality picks for a perfectly reasonable price.
Conclusion
With baitcasting now on the brain, hopefully, you feel inspired to try out a new rod. Though the process of shopping for a two-piece baitcasting rod may seem daunting, you’ve now got some top picks to consider the next time you’re browsing. Happy fishing!
