The 6 Best Swimbait Rods: How to Choose the Best Swimbait Rod for You

Swimbaits are known for attracting and catching big bass, which makes them increasingly popular. These large baits attract large fish.

You can use a regular jig rod to cast these baits, but a dedicated swimbait rod is called for once you start using baits with hooks sized 1+.

Of course, the particular swimbait rod matters. If you want to use a swimbait, purchase the best swimbait rod. 

You may get away with a normal rod when throwing smaller swimbaits, but in my experience, having a dedicated swimbait rod is worth it. 

Top 3 Box

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How We Chose the Top Swimbait Rods

When selecting the best swimbait rods, we interviewed several seasoned experts that use swimbaits regularly. 

Chris Zaldain’s specialty is catching monster bass using huge swimbaits – sometimes up to 12” long. He has a lot of success to show for using such large bass, too.

His personal best is a huge largemouth weighing 14 pounds, 1 ounce. 

He knows a lot about being successful with a swimbait and what rod you need to use swimbaits effectively. 

We also talked to Brent Chapman, who has won over $2.3 million in bass fishing tournaments. He was also awarded the title of tour-level Angler of the Year – something few anglers can claim. 

Even when not using swimbaits specifically, Chapman utilizes a swimbait rod and a reel that allows him to cast far and retrieve slowly. 

Finding a swimbait rod can be especially challenging if you’re smaller in stature. Many of the top swimbait rods are huge, which can be difficult to handle for many.

As a woman, I know just how hard it can be to fish with an 8’ rod. 

Luckily, there are many good options out there. Bigger isn’t necessarily always better. 

Best Swimbait Rod Overall

Dobyns Fury FR795RB

Specifications:

• Color: Black/Green
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 7’9”

Pros:

• Stiff and strong for larger swimbaits
• Large, comfortable handle to decrease fatigue
• Sensitive enough to let you feel every nibble
• Quality Fuji reel seat for durability

Cons:

• Reel seat threats are short

The Dobyns Fury FR795RB is necessarily stiff, allowing it to handle fishing swimbaits. It has a fast enough tip to cast a considerable distance – even when throwing large baits. 

The rod is extremely balanced and tournament-quality. The rod just feels high-quality when you hold it. 

The graphite blank makes the rod exceptionally strong and flexible. It can easily handle the larger baits, which is what you need when using a swimbait. 

The handle is comfortable and durable, as it’s made of cork. The handle’s extra-large, too, at nearly 20.5”. 

I found the rod quite sensitive. I always prefer more sensitive rods, even though it isn’t absolutely necessary for swimbaits. Catching those monster bass is always easier if you can feel every little nibble. 

Plus, this rod looks nice too!

The only downside is that the reel seat threads are noticeably short. The rod butt may also be a bit short for some preferences.

However, these are slight defects largely based on preference – not an underlying problem with the rod. 

Best Budget Swimbait Rod

13 Fishing Fate Black

Specifications:

• Color: Black
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 7’4”

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Sensitive so that you can feel nibbles and bumps
• Very lightweight to prevent fatigue
• Many size options available (though we recommend the heavy one for swimbaits)

Cons:

• Not as strong as other rods

New rods can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, you may want to purchase this cheaper rod. You can get the 7’4” heavy rod for under $70, making it one of the cheapest on the market.

It’s specifically designed for swimbaits, umbrella rigs, and topwaters.

The graphite material provides plenty of backbone for a good hookset, allowing you to reel larger fish. However, it isn’t quite as strong as other swimbait rods, though this is expected for the price. 

We don’t necessarily recommend it for bass over five pounds, but it is a good option for those just starting. You’ll miss out on some of the bigger fish if you choose this rod over our top pick. 

The rod is extremely light, making it easier for smaller people (like myself) to use. Of course, no one is going to complain about a lighter rod. 

It also has decent sensitivity – though not necessarily as sensitive as some higher-end rods. For a cheaper rod, it’s surprisingly sensitive, though, allowing you to feel practically every bump. 

This rod seems to have some problems breaking while being shipped. However, the company does provide replacements promptly. 

Best Swimbait Rod and Reel Combo

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Specifications:

• Color: Black/red
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 7’0”

Pros:

• Strong, graphite material holds up to larger fish
• Zirconium Oxide rings for a smooth, long cast
• Quality baitcaster included
• Double-shielded ball bearings for extra durability

Cons:

• No clicker

If you’re looking for a rod and reel combo, I highly recommend the 7’ version of the KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo. This heavy rod can handle large swimbaits without a problem. 

The carbon-infused frame is lighter than most while still being very sturdy. While this rod isn’t expensive, you don’t have to worry about breaking with the first cast, either. 

It features a baitcaster instead of a spinning reel, giving you more control. I like how this baitcaster allows you to stop the line when necessary, though this isn’t a mandatory feature.

Sadly, the baitcaster doesn’t have a clicker, so you have to use your eyes only. It doesn’t work well when put into a rod holder for that reason.

(Technically, if you just sat and stared at the rod, it would be fine, but I find that the fish always bite the second I look away). 

Personally, I have never been disappointed with KastKing products. Their rods are often high-quality, and this rod doesn’t disappoint. 

Best Swimbait Rod from Dobyns Rods

Dobyns Rods Champion XP Series

Specifications:

• Color: Black/blue
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 8’0”

Pros:

• Massive rod with a high power rating to handle larger fish
• Rugged Fuji rods for durability
• EVA foam handle is surprisingly comfortable

Cons:

• Single-piece

Dobyns makes some great rods, and the Dobyns Rods Champion XP Series is no exception. This massive rod is eight feet long with a very heavy power rating. Therefore, it works great for monster bass and large swimbaits.

With this big rod, you can cast swimbaits up to 10 ounces – plenty to reel in huge bass. I love how there isn’t a swimbait this rod can’t cast, so I don’t have to worry about the weight when choosing a new bait. 

The Fuji guides are rugged and can withstand regular use. The EVA foam handle is comfortable (better than the cork handles, in my opinion).

This rod isn’t expensive, especially for what you’re getting. I’ve handled several more expensive rods that are just as good as this one. 

Sadly, this rod is a single piece. If you like a split handle, this isn’t the best option. 

Best Fishing Rod for Swimbaits from G. Loomis

G. Loomis IMX-PRO 965C SWBR

Specifications:

• Color: Black/brown
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 8’0”

Pros:

• Modulus graphite for durability and sensitivity
• Plenty of backbone for retrieving monster bass
• Spiral-wrap design is very comfortable for long-term use

Cons:

• More expensive than other options

G. Loomis makes very good rods, but you will pay a premium price for them. The G. Loomis IMX-PRO 965C SWBR is made specifically to handle swimbaits. 

It’s made of modulus graphite – one of the top fish rod materials. The graphite makes the rod strong while also providing some degree of sensitivity. 

I particularly like the multi-taper design, making casting and retrieving heavy baits easier. As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences, but I can try to create a story based on the given topic.

When my grandfather first introduced me to fishing, I was overwhelmed by the amount of gear that he had accumulated over the years.

Among his collection were several multi-taper rods, which he swore were the best for casting.

At first, I didn’t understand the fuss. To me, all fishing rods looked the same. But as I began to practice casting, I quickly realized the benefits of a multi-taper rod.

The rod’s unique design allows for a gradual increase in diameter from the tip to the butt section, giving it greater flexibility and sensitivity.

This means that it can be cast further with less effort, allowing for longer and more accurate casts.

At 8’ long, this rod is one of the longest on this list. However, when you’re casting heavy baits, you want the extra length. It provides plenty of backbone for retrieving those monster bass. 

The handle features a unique spiral-wrap design and high-quality cork, which provides extra control and comfort. 

The Fuji guides provide increased casting distance without the lines becoming tangles. Plus, they’re made with a durable material that won’t break after only a few uses. 

While this rod is designed for saltwater fishing, you can also use it for freshwater. While some rods are rated for fishing in saltwater or freshwater, I’ve found that there isn’t a huge difference between them. 

Best Swimbait Rod for Saltwater

St. Croix Rods Mojo Yak Casting & Spinning Rod

Specifications:

• Color: Black cherry
• Material: Graphite
• Size: 7’6”

Pros:

• Shorter for kayak fishing
• High modulus graphite makes the rod durable and sensitive
• Able to handle large lures

Cons:

• Not designed for massive swimbaits

The St. Croix Rods Mojo Yak Casting Rod is designed specifically for kayak fishing thanks to its shorter length. However, you can also use it for shore or boat fishing.

It’s smaller than traditional saltwater fishing rods, though, which I find easier to handle as a smaller person. 

I recommend this rod over other saltwater options if you’re a woman. 

Like most rods on this list, it is made with a graphite fiber that makes it strong and sensitive. The fast action and backbone make it great for casting swimbaits and reeling in larger fish. 

It’s specifically made to handle swimbaits up to 1 ½ ounces. Therefore, you’ll need to look for a bigger rod to use larger swimbaits. 

The cork handle features a split-grip, allowing you to keep control even when your rod is soaked. 

How to Choose a Swimbait Rod

There are several features to consider when choosing a swimbait rod. Some of these features do depend on personal preference, but others are objectively better for casting swimbaits.

Power

Swimbaits are heavy, so a high-power rod is recommended. The power of the rod represents how much weight that rod can handle. The higher the power, the heavier the swimbaits you can safely cast. 

You can get away with a medium-power rod. However, a medium-high or even high rod is a better option. 

Length

Longer rods allow you to cast further, which is often essential when using swimbaits. Therefore, you want to use a 7- to 9-foot long rod. Typically, the longer the rod is, the better. 

That said, if you’re a smaller person, then longer rods can be harder to control. Be sure to consider your capabilities when choosing a rod. 

Action

You want a rod that bends and recovers very quickly when using swimbaits. Therefore, I highly recommend choosing a fast or extra-fast action rod. Anything lower than that could make casting more challenging. 

Material

Most swimbait rods utilize graphite, which is lightweight. Because these rods are longer, a lightweight material is preferable. However, fiberglass is also a great option and more durable. 

Handle

You’ll be holding the rod for hours, so the comfort of the handle matters. You want a good grip, even when the rod is wet. However, preferences for the exact material differ. 

I prefer EVA handles, but others prefer cork. You’ll need to try several options to figure out your preference. Carbon fiber handles also exist, but they’re harder to find. 

Guides

The guides on a rod help keep the fighting line along the rod and can improve casting length. With swimbaits, you’ll need to use heavy lines, so look for a rod with quality guides that can handle the weight. 

Guides breaking in the middle of a fishing trip can be frustrating. This feature may seem small, but it can make a huge difference. Don’t skimp on it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

If you want to successfully use swimbaits, you need an outstanding swimbait fishing rod. The best swimbait rod depends on your preferences and situation. Beginners probably need a different rod than an expert, for instance. 

However, there are some objectively better rods than others. 

I recommend a medium to heavy bass rod with fast action. Choose something on the longer end, around 7 to 9 feet long.

Because you’ll be handling larger fish with this rod, I recommend purchasing something more expensive and durable if you can afford it. 

Of course, there are tons of rods out there to try. If you have a favorite swimbait rod we didn’t mention, let us know in the comment section below.

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