When you‘re new to the world of fishing or looking to upgrade your gear without breaking the bank, Walmart is an excellent place to start your search for the perfect fishing pole. With a wide selection catering to everyone from first-timers to seasoned anglers, Walmart offers quality rods at very affordable prices.
As an avid fisherman myself with over 20 years of experience, I know firsthand that having the right equipment makes all the difference out on the water. But I also understand not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars, especially when you‘re just starting out. That‘s why I‘ve put together this expert guide on the best fishing poles you can find at your local Walmart or on Walmart.com.
First, let‘s go over some key things to look for when choosing a fishing rod, regardless of where you buy:
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Material: Most rods are made of fiberglass, graphite, or a composite. Fiberglass is heavier but highly durable, graphite is lightweight and sensitive, while composites aim to combine the best qualities of both.
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Power: This refers to the rod‘s strength and resistance against bending. Ultra-light rods are best for small fish, while heavy power is suited for larger gamefish. Medium power is the most versatile.
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Action: Determined by where the rod bends, action ranges from slow (bends near the handle) to fast (bends near the tip). Faster action provides more sensitivity and casts farther.
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Length: Longer rods cast farther, while shorter rods provide more accuracy and control. The most common lengths are between 6-7 feet.
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Reel type: The two basic types are spinning and casting. Spinning reels mount under the rod, are beginner-friendly, and ideal for lighter lures. Casting reels mount on top and can handle heavier lines and lures.
With these factors in mind, let‘s dive into my top picks for the best Walmart fishing poles that deliver outstanding performance for the price.
- Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
When it comes to sheer strength and durability, it‘s hard to beat the Ugly Stik GX2. This upgraded version of the classic features Ugly Tech construction with a combination of graphite and fiberglass for added sensitivity without sacrificing toughness. Stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs, while the Clear Tip design is sensitive to even the lightest nibbles. The 6‘6" medium power, fast action is great for bass, walleye, and trout.
- Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod
For a lightweight, portable option perfect for fishing small streams or ponds, check out the Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod. Measuring just 4‘6", this ultra-compact rod fits easily in a backpack. The graphite composite blank offers good sensitivity and flexibility for its size. Great for panfish, trout, and bass with lightweight tackle.
- Shimano FX Spinning Rod
Shimano is one of the most trusted names in fishing, and their FX series provides their renowned quality at a budget-friendly price point. Available in lengths from 5‘6" to 7‘ in 2-piece configurations, these rods utilize Aeroglass blanks for a balanced mix of strength and sensitivity. The graphite reel seat and aluminum oxide guides add to the rod‘s durability. I recommend the 6‘ or 6‘6" medium power for a versatile, all-around choice.
- KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod
If you‘re willing to spend a little more for even better performance, consider the KastKing Perigee II. Featuring high-modulus carbon fiber blanks and stainless steel guides with zirconium oxide inserts, this rod offers excellent sensitivity, strength, and casting distance. The unique twin-tip design lets you choose between two different actions. Well-suited for bass, trout, walleye, and inshore saltwater species.
- Plusinno Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
For a complete package that‘s ready to fish right out of the box, the Plusinno combo is an unbeatable value. The set includes a 6‘6" fiberglass/graphite composite rod, matching spinning reel, and even a small tackle box with basic lures and accessories. An Amazon‘s Choice product with a 4.4 star rating from over 8,000 reviews, this combo is perfect for kids or adult beginners who want to give fishing a try without investing a lot upfront.
- KastKing Brutus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Another all-inclusive combo, the KastKing Brutus, steps up the quality a notch with a 6‘6" 24-ton carbon matrix rod blank for increased sensitivity and lighter weight. The smooth 10+1 shielded bearing reel comes pre-spooled with KastKing line. Stainless steel guides and an EVA grip round out this well-appointed combo that performs far above its price point.
- Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod
For the ultimate in portability, a telescopic rod like this Sougayilang model collapses down to a mere 16 inches for easy storage in a vehicle, boat, or backpack. When fully extended, it measures 5‘9" with medium-light power. The 24-ton carbon fiber construction keeps weight to a minimum while retaining good strength. Ceramic guides resist corrosion, making this a solid choice for saltwater applications as well.
So how do Walmart‘s fishing poles stack up against higher-end offerings from specialty retailers? While you won‘t find the absolute cutting edge technology or premium components, the rods outlined above deliver excellent performance and value for the average angler.
Unless you‘re a professional or hardcore enthusiast, a $40-$80 Walmart rod will catch fish just as well as a $200 model. In some cases, you‘re mostly paying for the brand name. For most people, especially casual fishers and beginners, Walmart‘s selection is more than adequate.
To choose the best pole for you, consider the following:
- Your experience level: Beginners do best with a medium power, moderate action rod in the 6‘ to 7‘ range. Combos can be a good choice while you‘re learning.
- Target species and technique: Lighter power rods excel for smaller fish like panfish and trout, while heavy power is better for larger fish like salmon, pike, and offshore species. Fast action is ideal for single-hook baits and more open water, while slower action works well for treble-hooked lures and cover-oriented fishing.
- Where you‘ll be fishing: Shorter rods are easier to maneuver in tight spots like brush or docks, while longer rods cast farther in open water. If you‘ll be hiking into remote spots, consider a telescopic or multi-piece design.
Once you‘ve chosen the perfect pole, make sure to take good care of it to ensure years of faithful service. Always rinse your rod with freshwater after fishing, especially in saltwater. Loosen the drag after each trip to extend the reel‘s life. Regularly inspect the line guides for cracks or grooves that can damage the line. And store your rods in a cool, dry place, preferably in a protective case or bag.
One final tip – don‘t overlook the value of buying fishing gear at Walmart. Not only do they offer competitive prices, but their return policy is hard to beat. Most items can be returned within 30 days for a full refund or exchange, even if you‘ve already used them. Just keep your receipt and original packaging. Some higher-end reels may have a longer 60 or 90-day return window as well.
To sum it up, Walmart is a surprisingly good source for fishing poles and other gear, especially for beginners and budget-minded anglers. By choosing one of the top-rated rods I‘ve outlined here and following the advice in this guide, you‘ll be well equipped for your next fishing adventure. Tight lines!
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