Best Backpacking Fishing Pole | Choose Your Rod!
Let's take a look at some backpacking fishing poles that will let you have fun while hiking, without having to carry around a lot of extra weight.
Looking for the best backpacking fishing pole? Look no further!
Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy nature. And it can be even more enjoyable when you are doing it with a lightweight backpacking fishing pole.
In this article, we will review some of the most popular models and help you choose the one that is perfect for your needs. We want you to have the best possible experience when fishing, so we have made sure to include some of the top-rated poles on the market.
How We Picked
When you're out in the backcountry, you want the best gear to make your fishing trip a success.
Not all fishing poles are created equal. You need a pole that is lightweight and easy to carry with you on your hike, but that can also handle big fish without bending or breaking.
We've done the research for you and found the best fishing poles for backpacking on the market. Any of these poles will do an excellent job of catching fish out in the backcountry. We've even included a survival fishing kit, something every backpacker should carry.
Disclosure: We only recommend things we’ve personally used or come highly recommended by trusted peers. Using one of our referral links might give us a small commission which helps support this website at no additional cost to you. If you’d like to learn more check out our disclaimer page.
Why We Chose
This versatile kit includes a series of pieces that are fitted together for an easy set-up and breakdown, allowing you to travel with ease.
Not only is this rod lightweight, but it also offers great flexibility and usability.
Plus, you won’t be compromising quality - other anglers have personally reported catching trout up to 5 lbs using this rod.
For those who really want to get serious with their fishing, this product provides just enough portability without compromising on the joys of angling.
The Rundown
- Featuring a corrosion-resistant graphite frame, machine-cut brass pinion gear, and a one-piece anodized aluminum spool.
- The light action composite rod breaks down into five pieces for easy storage and is equipped with cork handles plus a stainless steel hooded reel seat and ceramic guide inserts.
- Conveniently packs away into a padded, soft-sided carry case. Measuring 17 x 9 x 3 inches, you'll be able to fit it in any bag while still enjoying all the perks of an organized tackle box.
Rod Length: 6ft | Material: Synthetic/composite | Weight: 1.25 lbs | Case Dimensions: 17" x 9" x 3"
✔ Lightweight
✔ Easy casting
✔ Good rod sensitivity
✖️ Reel has small spool
PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, Carbon Fiber Telescopic Fishing Pole with Reel Combo
Best telescopic fishing rod
Why We Chose
If you have limited space and are searching for the most compact fishing rod, telescoping rods are your ideal solution.
This awesome telescoping rod is perfect for those trips when you're on the go. Whether you're hiking up a mountain or kayaking across a lake, this rod and reel combo will have your back every step of the way.
Its sturdy design makes it resilient and durable, so it won't let you down whatever the size of the fish. Plus, it looks pretty amazing too – with its unique design, we guarantee you'll catch more than just fish with this rod and reel combo!
The Rundown
- This full kit has all the essentials: a rod, reel and line; plus lures, hooks and other accessories. And when it's time for your next excursion out on the water, just stash them away safely in its handy carrier bag.
- Featuring the strength of carbon fiber and durable stainless steel hooded reel seats to resist even sea salt corrosion.
Rod Length: 6' 8" | Material: Carbon & Fiberglass Composite | Weight: 2.82 lbs | Case Dimensions: 16.85" x 9.37" x 2.95"
✔ Strong rod, capable of large fish
✔ Perfect for travel
✔ Corrosion resistant
✖️ Comes with low-quality line and lures
Why We Chose
This package includes everything you need to ensure an exceptionally fun and successful fishing trip.
This 12' Tenkara rod is lightweight and easy to use, making it ideal for beginners or even experienced anglers.
Its 8 sections store easily with the handle, so you can be assured that it won't take up too much space in your pack.
And don't worry if you're not sure what kind of fish you'll be trying to catch - this rod is versatile enough to target a variety of species.
The Rundown
- This lightweight, 12-foot fly fishing rod is the perfect fit for any angler looking to tackle their favorite body of water.
- Crafted from durable IM8 graphite and featuring a 6:4 rod action, this piece packs plenty of power in just 3 ounces.
- Comes complete, featuring a nylon carrying case and soft, stretchy rod sock - ideal for travel and storage. Plus there's an extra-long 22" PVC tube so that your gear is easy to carry wherever the adventure may take you!
- Tenkara rods do not include a reel seat or guides, but it's designed to not need one. The line attaches to the end of the rod.
Rod Length 12' | Material: Graphite | Weight: 1.85 lbs | Case Dimensions: 22.5"
✔ Rod weights only 3 ounces
✔ Perfect for beginner fly fishers
✔ Comes in easy to pack tube
✔ Great customer service
✖️ Lack of detailed instructions
Why We Chose
This pocket-sized pole is great for adults and kids alike – and can be easily put in a pocket, purse, or backpack for use on boats, kayaks, or even while backpacking. It's been around for years and still holds true to its original promise.
Don't let its small size fool you; with Ronco Pocket Fisherman, you'll feel like a fisherman no matter where you are. So throw away your bulky old gear and go mini with Ronco Pocket Fisherman.
The Rundown
- Fully stocked with essential items such as line and an array of lures - no need for extra supplies.
- Foldable design allows for easy storage in a pocket or glove compartment and the included wrist strap makes it convenient to bring along wherever you go.
- Plus, there's an innovative mini tackle box hidden inside its handle - so no need to worry about carrying extra bags of lures.
Dimensions: 10.39" x 4.72" x 4.33" | Material: Plastic | Weight: 1.2 lbs
✔ Compact
✔ Great for kids
✔ Perfect for a bug-out bag
✖️ Might be too gimmicky for serious fishermen
Why We Chose
Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or a beginner, this kit has everything you need to be prepared for those emergencies when you find yourself in the middle of nowhere.
This compact, lightweight kit fits easily into any bug-out bag or first aid kit and includes enough materials to fish lakes and streams: two jig heads, four trout flies, one bucktail teaser, four snap swivels, and twelve pounds of test line – all packed neatly in a convenient plastic container.
Pretty impressive for just one small package! Plus, with the variety of flies included in the kit you can mix up your technique until you find what works best for your environment and conditions.
The Rundown
- Made with the highest quality materials and workmanship in America, this meticulously crafted container is made for the long haul.
- Reliable water-resistant tin construction that includes both an interior rubber seal and exterior vinyl tape to keep it safe and secure.
- Carefully crafted by experienced survivalists and seasoned fishermen, it includes all the necessary tools for success.
- From jigs to fishhooks, leaders or split shot - you'll be fully prepared no matter what nature throws at you.
Weight: 1.6 oz | Case Dimensions: 3.82" x 2.32" x 0.94"
✔ Includes everything you need
✔ Water tight case
✔ Designed by survivalists
✖️ Bare minimum kit
Things To Consider When Fishing In The Backcountry
For the serious backpacker-fisher, having the right fishing rod can make all the difference. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an avid angler, there are some key things to consider when buying your backpacking fishing rod.
Type Of Fishing You'll Be Doing
Still Water Fishing
Still water fishing includes any type of lake or pond, and can provide a peaceful and serene experience. With the right tackle and technique, you can find success with casting lures or bait as well as fly fishing.
Stream Fishing
Streams are narrow bodies of swiftly moving water that connect lakes and rivers. The currents of streams make it challenging to fish them effectively, but if done correctly they can be a great source of sport fish such as trout and bass.
River Fishing
Rivers are wider than streams and often require more specialized techniques to target certain species of fish. Many anglers prefer river fishing due to the variety of species available, such as salmon, steelhead, walleye and catfish.
Lake Fishing
Lakes are large bodies of standing water that offer prime opportunities for anglers to catch large numbers of game fish throughout the year. Popular techniques for targeting lake fish include trolling with spoons or baits along the shoreline, jigging from boats, or shoreline casting with artificial lures or bait.
Different Types Of Fishing Rods For The Backcountry
Spinning Rod
Spinning rods are the most common type of fishing rod and feature a fixed spinning reel attached to the butt of the rod. This makes them perfect for anglers who need to cover large areas quickly, making them ideal for backcountry fishing trips.
Telescopic Rods
Telescopic rods are great for backpackers as they collapse down into a small size and are lightweight and easy to transport. They offer plenty of flexibility when it comes to casting distances, making them suitable for all types of backcountry fishing conditions.
Baitcasting Rods
Baitcasting rods come with reels mounted on top and feature heavier guides which allow for long casts in tight spaces, making them an ideal choice for backcountry anglers who are looking to target larger fish species such as pike or musky.
Fly Fishing Rods
Fly fishing rods feature lightweight construction and specialized reels designed specifically for flyfishing techniques, allowing anglers to easily reach further distances than traditional spinning or baitcasting gear.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Backpacking Fishing Rod
Rod Length
This is one of the most important considerations since it affects how well you can cast and how much weight the rod can handle.
- Generally speaking, shorter rods are more portable and better for casting light lures, while longer rods allow for better reach and control.
It all depends on what type of fish you plan on catching and what kind of environment you’ll be fishing in.
Price
Price should always be a factor when choosing any piece of gear, especially if it’s something that will see a lot of use like a fishing rod.
But don’t let price be your only consideration—make sure to pay attention to quality too. A good quality rod may cost more upfront but will last much longer than a cheap one.
Action
Action refers to how quickly or slowly your line moves when you cast it out into the water.
- Generally speaking, faster action rods are great for small fish like trout or bass, while slower action rods are better for larger species like salmon or steelhead.
Again, choosing the right action will depend on where you plan on using it and what type of fish you want to catch.
Materials
Most backpacking fishing rods are made from either graphite or fiberglass materials.
- Graphite is lighter and stronger than fiberglass but also more expensive; fiberglass is cheaper but heavier and less durable over time.
If possible, try both types before making your decision so that you know which material works best for your needs and budget.
Travel Case
If you plan on bringing your rod with you while backpacking, make sure to get a travel case that protects it from dirt and moisture while still being lightweight enough not to add too much bulk to your loadout.
- Soft cases work well for shorter rods but if yours is longer than 4 feet then consider getting a hard case that offers extra protection during transit.
Extra Fishing Gear You Might Want To Consider
- Tackle box: Make sure to pack all necessary lures, tackle and bait in a sturdy tackle box so they stay organized and easily accessible throughout your trip.
- Nets: It's always helpful to have a few different types of nets such as dip nets or landing nets handy when attempting to land larger fish.
- Pliers: One of the most useful tools when fishing to get those hooks out safely.
- Waders: If you plan on wading into deeper waters, make sure to bring along chest or hip waders for extra protection from cold temperatures and slippery surfaces.
Bottom Line
If you're an angler with a sense of adventure, we've got the perfect match for your needs. We searched far and wide to bring you the best backpacking fishing rods - lightweight models that fit snugly in any backpack!
So make sure those trout don't miss out on their chance at getting hooked by one of these babies; take a look and find the best backpacking fishing rod for all your future excursions into nature's wilds. Happy fishing – tight lines!
Before You Go...
Post Moore
Post Moore
