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Baitcasting rods are perfect for professional fishing and breaking all stereotypes they are available under $100 of different brands with all their best performances and durability. They have become very popular in recent years due to their versatility and the fact that they offer anglers a great deal of control when casting. That’s why we have prepared the list of best baitcasting rods under $100.
Baitcasting rods are versatile and durable options that can handle any type of fish, making them a good choice for those who fish in rough conditions. There are many different types of baitcasting rods on the market, so it is important to do some research before buying one. In general, baitcasting rods under $100 will be of good quality and perform well.
Top 3 picks for the best baitcasting rods under $100
- Carbon fiber rod construction
- Titanium alloy rod guides
- EVA grips split grip handle
- Fast action rod
- Composite rods
- Stainless steel guides
- EVA full grip handles
- 2-piece rod construction
- Composite blank construction
- Stainless steel construction
- 2 piece rods
- 6’6’’ length Medium power
Detailed review of best baitcasting rods under $100
1- Abu Garcia Veritas Casting Fishing Rod
best bass baitcasting rod under $100
FEATURES
Abu Garcia Veritas is among those baitcasting rods that maintain a perfect balance that leads to a perfect cast with distance. Without losing any quality the manufacturers have made the rod 5% lighter than before and yet stronger. The durability of the rod isn’t sacrificed.
This rod is flooded with many premium-quality features among them worth mentioning are the rod guides made of superior material that is mostly used in high-end fishing rods exclusively expensive. The guides are of titanium alloy which is not only light in weight but durable enough to handle pressure. These guides do not bend easily under heavy loads and are corrosion-resistant so whatever the fishing type is, Veritas is there to rock.
The rod cosmetics are very appealing, its full white body along with white EVA grips are easy to hold and retain their shape for a longer time, so if you are a rough angler, Veritas can be your go-to rod.
In addition to all that, the Abu Garcia Veritas bait casting rod has a sensitive tip that detects the slightest fish nibbles and ideal rod for bass fishing that wouldn’t let you miss any catch.
The rod is ideally designed to target decent size fish as it is available in medium to medium heavy and heavy power. You can easily target salmon, pike, and bigger-size bass. Veritas is one of the best bass baitcasting rods.
Pick the length that best suits you as it is available in 6’6” to a maximum of 7’6” length. So whether it’s surf fishing, jetting, or kayak fishing you can trust Abu Garcia Veritas.
- Lightweight rod
- High-quality rod guides
- Comfortable rod handle
- Sensitive Tip
- The action isn’t fast like other bait-casting rods
- Stiff rods
2- Ugly Stik Bigwater Casting Fishing Rod
best baitcasting rod under $100 overall
FEATURES
Ugly Stik is a well-known fishing rod brand producing durable and high-quality rods and especially at cheaper prices. These brand rods are available relatively at lower prices.
The Ugly Stik Bigwater casting rods are designed to target saltwater species like stripers, blues, bigger muskies, and offshore game fish. They are durable rods and suitable for different saltwater environments. These rods can easily handle and cast medium to heavy fishing lines and lures.
This rod features the famous Ugly Tech rod construction offering graphite’s sensitivity, fiberglass durability, and flex. The rod can easily take abuse from harsh saltwater and yet casts smoothly. They are well deserving of the title of best baitcasting rods under $100.
The rod comprises corrosion-resistant components i.e. stainless steel guides and Fuji reel seats. For adding comfort and not adding any additional weight EVA grips are added to the rod. These are heavy-duty full-grip handles you can fish full day long without any arm fatigue.
To fulfill the heavy game-casting requirements, the Bigwater series is available in 6’6’’ to 12’ feet long rods to achieve casting distance, to target bigger they come in medium, medium-heavy to extra heavy power rods. Enjoy the fast hook sets with these fast-action rods.
Pair these rods with the best-suited saltwater baitcasting reels for ideal casts.
- Tough rods suitable for surf fishing
- A perfect budget-friendly baitcasting rod for bigger catches
- Suitable rods for longer casts
- Available as both one and two-piece rods
- Some anglers have found the rod to be heavier than expected when a heavy bigger spool reel is paired with them. Prefer to go with graphite lightweight reels
3- Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Fishing Rods
best baitcasting rods under $100 overall
FEATURES
If you are looking for a versatile option in baitcasting rods and exclusively under $100, Berkley Cherrywood is the best option for all skill-level anglers. They are designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing and provide a perfect balance of sensitivity and strength required for various types of fishing conditions.
The main hero behind this balanced performance is the blank’s composite construction featuring properties of both materials. In addition to this, the rod also features cork handles that wouldn’t slip from the angler’s wet hands.
It’s a recommended addition to traveling rods as being 2 pieces they are easy to transport. The rod ferrules are of good quality and let you cast like a one-piece rod.
These rods are also good with finesse fishing techniques tested with a Texas rig. The rod guides are stainless steel and can resist corrosion. Well, it’s a low-budget rod and it will be totally unfair if you compare this rod with high-end expensive rods. You will get what you paid for.
Besides all this, I can confidently say that the rod can perform more than its capacity and more than your expectations from a rod of this price.
It is appreciated that the rod maintains very attractive cosmetics too. Anglers who like to fish with fancy gear can consider this rod. It will perform well without disturbing your budget.
Some anglers said that they have landed bigger-sized fish up to 3-5 feet. However, as with any fishing gear, individual experiences may vary as I landed some 15 lb. bass that is almost 1.5 to 2 feet long.
Overall, the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Fishing Rods are well-made and offer excellent value for the price.
- Durable enough to set solid hook sets
- 2 piece rods
- Lightweight rods
- Perfect rod for Texas rig
- Sensitive rods
- The line guides on the rods may not be as durable as those on other models, which could lead to line tangles and other issues
- 7 feet rod isn’t 2 piece
- Only medium power
4- Abu Garcia Vengeance Casting Fishing Rod
best value baitcasting rods under $100
FEATURES
The major advantage of going with graphite fishing rods is the sensitivity, these rods wouldn’t let you miss any catch, detect the lightest fish nibbles even the smartest fish like trout that doesn’t even let the angler know, and take away the lure.
Abu Garcia Vengeance is rich with sensitivity features and being graphite rods they are easy to hold for a longer period on the shore.
Those anglers who want high-end features in the rod and looking for a good alternative to expensive rods should consider Abu Garcia Vengeance. Try any fishing style, any bait presentation, or any water type they can beat it.
If you want to throw bigger crankbaits Vengeance can be trusted. These rods are designed for heavy fishing lines and lures and are suitable for heavy covers. With enough backbone, these rods can tackle aggressive fish like bass, bigger catfish, stripers, and other saltwater species.
The line guides are stainless steel with titanium oxide inserts that can work with any fishing line. Line breaking and line tangles aren’t prominent issue with these rods. They wouldn’t bend easily and can bear braided line abuse.
It’s well-thought design as the hook keeper is also placed so the hook hanged will not disturb its cosmetics. Overall, it is the best baitcasting rod available for under $100 and can compete with expensive baitcasting rods.
I wish the brand also introduces the 2-piece version of this rod so it can be easily bought to desired fishing spots.
- High-end features
- Sensitive enough to detect the smallest fish strike
- Has a hook keeper
- One piece rod
- Some anglers have reported that it is heavier as compared to other graphite rods. However, the individual experience may vary
5- 13 FISHING Fate Black Baitcast Fishing Rods
best baitcasting rod for crankbaits
FEATURES
I was introduced with 13 Fishing brands as only the best ice fishing rods brand until I got a chance to use cast with a 13 fishing Fate Black baitcasting rod.
The special part about these rods is the 30 Ton graphite construction, these rigid heavy power rods are suitable for fighting bigger catches and jigging heavy baits.
Although they are stiffer than regular baitcasting rods of the same price but offer flex as required. This stiffness gives an impression that they are flimsy but it’s a well-made rod with a well-designed structure so wouldn’t snap into two halves that easily their line and lure rating.
The action and performance of these rods are slightly different from other rods usually it takes time to get regular with these rods. I will not recommend these rods to novice anglers however all set for experienced ones.
The guides are stainless steel offering accurate casts, it also features a hook keeper for the proper placing of the hook and EVA grips to make these rods good with maneuverability.
They are available as a medium, medium-heavy, and heavy power rods. Different rod lengths are available for different height anglers and for different length casts.
- Lightweight rods
- Rigid rod
- Great with sensitivity
- Stiff rod, prone to breakage
6- Ugly Stik GX2 Casting Fishing Rod
best baitcasting rods for beginners
FEATURES
I personally like Ugly Stik GX2 casting rod as it is one of the best baitcasting rods for beginner and is available for under $100. Baitcasting rods are relatively tough to learn as compared to spinning rods, but this not is the case with Ugly Stik GX2, these are one of the best spinning rods and it casting version is also easy to use.
It has almost the same features as the Ugly Stik Bigwater casting rods, the same Ugly tech composite blank constructions, and durable one-piece stainless steel guides.
These are one of the most durable baitcasting rods listed here and can target heavier and bigger catches up to 5 ft. The regular range of catches we were successful in catching with these rods were 30, 40, and 50 lbs.
The strong line guides are placed properly and work great with all fishing types, you can use heavy fishing lines up to 50 lbs. and cast heavy lures. Cast longer with crankbaits and other soft plastics worms.
Pair it with a 4000 reel size, the spool size is enough for casting long. The only part I miss is sensitivity, although not a major issue with bigger catches as their bites aren’t hard to feel.
Overall these rods are of great strength and are long-lasting they will be your fishing partner for a long period.
- Lightweight rods
- Flexible rods
- Long-lasting baitcasting rods
- Suitable for beginners
- Not ideally sensitive
- gNot for smaller fish
7- KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods
best baitcasting rod for saltwater under $100
FEATURES
Are you looking for a quality baitcasting fishing rod without breaking the bank? Look no further than KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods! This 24 ton graphite rod is not only suitable for bigger catches, but its sensitivity allows you to detect even the slightest nibbles by smaller fish.
KastKing Perigee II baitcasting fishing rods feature exclusive 24-ton carbon matrix KastFlex blank technology for power, strength, and accuracy. The added fuji alconite ring guide design for even better casting performance and increased sensitivity.
These amazing baitcasting rods are perfect for just about any type of fishing you can think of, from finesse fishing to flipping, twitching, and pitching. Order your KastKing Perigee II baitcasting rod today and see the difference our high-quality materials and construction make!
KastKing Perigee II baitcasting fishing rods are available in 29 sizes, from an ultra-light spinning fishing rod to a heavy 7’ spinning rod. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your fishing style and needs.
You can be confident that they’ll withstand even the most strenuous fishing conditions. Whether you’re trolling for big game fish or casting for smaller fry, KastKing has a baitcasting rod that’s just right for you.
KastKing Perigee II baitcasting fishing rods are some of the best-value rods on the market. They are well made and have a great warranty. The casting is smooth and they are very sensitive. The guides are also top quality. You can’t go wrong with a KastKing rod.
Some anglers have reported that the tip broke off, you can also face this issue if do not save them properly. Transport their 2-piece version placing it in a rod holder.
- Well-built structure
- High quality each component construction
- Tip breaking issue
8- KastKing Royale Select Fishing Rod
best all-rounder baitcasting rod under $100
FEATURES
For those looking for a budget-friendly yet versatile baitcasting rod, the KastKing Royale Select Fishing Rod is a perfect choice. This rod is designed with saltwater and freshwater fishing in mind, making it a great option for anglers of all levels. The rod features superior casting distance and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for a wide variety of fishing applications.
Whether you’re trying out new techniques or are an experienced angler, this rod can handle any type of fishing presentation, from drop shot to Texas rig. It is an ideal choice for beginners and experienced fishermen alike.
These are 24-ton Graphite rods and a 2-piece rod. With KastKing Power Transition System the pressure is properly distributed over the rod length. The rod ferrules are well constructed and durable that offer the casting experience of 1 piece rods.
Target muskies, bass, salmon, pike, trout, and many other decent size fish confidently with these rods. With EVA grips and sturdy reel seat you wouldn’t be disturbed in your casts.
Additionally, the lightweight design ensures easy handling and maneuverability, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers alike. With its exceptional performance, it’s no wonder that the KastKing Royale Select Fishing Rod has been hailed as the best versatile baitcasting rod under $100.
- Enough backbone
- Sensitive tip
- Stiff rods
How to choose the best baitcasting rod under $100
Baitcasting rods are a great addition to the rod arsenal, it’s not all the budget to be focused on when buying, there are many important factors to consider before the top of them are rod, power, action, and construction, so besides being budget-friendly the rod should be able to cast long with the right length, should be durable with the right construction, can lift the target fish with the right power and action. Let’s dive deep into these factors to make you a well aware buyer.
Fishing is a sport that requires a variety of specialized gear, and choosing the right baitcasting rod is no exception. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which rod is best for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors to consider when selecting a quality baitcasting rod under $100.
Rod construction Material
There are many different types of materials that can be used to construct a baitcasting rod, and the choice of material will have a big impact on the overall performance of the rod. The most common materials used for baitcasting rods are graphite and fiberglass, but there are also some rods made from other materials like carbon fiber.
Graphite is the most popular material for baitcasting rods, as it is very lightweight and has excellent sensitivity. It is also very strong, which makes it ideal for fishing in heavy cover or around the structure. Fiberglass is another popular choice for baitcasting rods, as it is also very sensitive and has good strength. However, it is not as light as graphite but we can’t deny that fiberglass rods are more durable than graphite.
Other materials like carbon fiber are also used to construct baitcasting rods, but they are higher priced as compared to other material rods. Carbon fiber rods are a more enhanced form of graphite and are lighter in weight. If you are available with a carbon fiber rod under $100 you should consider it.
Rod Power
As anyone who’s ever gone fishing knows, the type of rod you use can make a big difference in your success. If you’re using the wrong type of rod for the fish you’re trying to catch, you’re not likely to have much luck. The same is true if you’re using a baitcasting rod that isn’t well-suited for the type of bait you’re using. In order to choose the best baitcasting rod under $100, it’s important to consider what you plan to use it for.
If you plan on using your baitcasting rod for freshwater fishing, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider the weight of the fish you’re likely to be catching. If you plan on catching smaller fish, like panfish or trout, you won’t need as much power in your rod as someone who plans on catching larger fish, like bass or pike. An ultralight or light power rod is the perfect match for the situation.
Rod power is categorized into different like heavy, extra-heavy, medium-heavy, medium, medium-light, light, and ultra-light. All these categories are chosen according to the type of fishing we are up to. The heavier the power scale is, the bigger catch it can lift.
the important point to be noted here is, the higher the power rating is, the heavier the rod will be in weight.
Moreover, low-power rods are bendy in nature like light and ultra-light they make a prominent flex when under load as compared to heavy or extra-heavy which are stiffer in nature. Medium power rods are in-between and are easy to handle for both novices and regular ones.
Read this detailed guide on Fishing rod power to learn about each power rating and their corresponding line and lure rating capacities.
Fishing Rod Action
When it comes to choosing a baitcasting rod, the action is one of the most important factors to consider. The action of a rod refers to how fast the tip of the rod moves when you cast. There are three main types of actions: fast, medium, and slow. Fast action rods are great for making long casts, they are stiffer of all and bend only from the tip while slow action rods are better for short casts, these rods bend throughout their whole length and are preferred for panfish. Moderate-action rods fall somewhere in between as their bending location is the top half, they are good with maneuverability and are a good choice for most anglers.
To learn more about fishing rod action, read our article on “Fishing rod Power and Action” to know more in detail.
Rod Guides Material
There are a few things to consider when selecting the material for your rod guides. The three most common materials are aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and stainless steel. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks that should be considered before making a purchase.
Aluminum oxide is the least expensive option and is therefore a popular choice for budget-conscious anglers. However, it is also the least durable option and is more likely to break under heavy use.
Silicon carbide is more expensive than aluminum oxide but is also much more durable. It is an excellent choice for those who fish frequently or for those who plan on using their rod in saltwater conditions.
Stainless steel is the most expensive option but is also the most durable. It is resistant to corrosion and will not break down like aluminum oxide or silicon carbide. This makes it an ideal choice for those who fish in saltwater or for those who want the peace of mind that comes with knowing their rod will last for many years to come.
Rod handle Material
The handle of a baitcasting rod is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a baitcasting rod. The material of the handle will determine the durability, comfort, and weight of the rod. There are two main materials used for baitcasting rod handles cork and EVA foam.
Cork is the traditional material used for baitcasting rod handles. It is durable and provides a comfortable grip. However, cork is also heavier than other materials and can absorb water, making it less ideal for use in wet conditions. However, cork is not as durable as EVA foam and can’t retain its shape for a longer time especially when placed in rod holders for beach fishing.
EVA foam is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for baitcasting rod handles. These handles are lighter than cork and do not absorb water, making them ideal for use in wet conditions. EVA foam is also more comfortable than cork, cheaper than cork, and provides better shock absorption.
Reel Seat
The reel seat is the part of the baitcasting rod that holds the reel in place. It is important to choose a reel seat that is comfortable and easy to use. There are many different types of reel seats on the rods, so it is important to do some research before making a purchase. Some things to consider when choosing a reel seat include:
-The type of fishing you will be doing. If you plan on doing a lot of casting, then you will want a durable reel seat that can handle the wear and tear.
-The size of your reel. You will want to make sure that the reel seat can accommodate the size of your reel.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you should be able to narrow down your choices and find the best baitcasting rod under $100 for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when it comes to buying a best baitcasting rod under $100. We believe that there are plenty of great options out there, and we have given you some of our top recommendations. With our help, you should be able to find the perfect rod for your fishing needs without breaking the bank. Good luck in finding your next reliable baitcasting rod!