best travel rod tubes

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How to Select Your Next Travel Fishing Rod Carrier

• By Sam Hudson
• Updated: November 20, 2019

If an upcoming fishing trip takes you far from your local waters, and you won’t be trailering your boat with you, chances are you’ll need a travel case for your fishing rods. If fishing with a captain, sometimes the guide service will provide the rods and reels. Inquire with the outfitter if that’s something you’re interested in.

Most anglers want to bring their own fishing tackle, feeling more comfortable with their own gear. The tricky part is getting your gear to your destination in one piece, without breaking any of the rods, rod guides or reels. Reels, line, hooks, pliers and other terminal gear can be packed in a suitcase; your rods likely require a specific rod carrier. The rod carrier might be different if you’re flying or driving, or packing spinning, conventional or fly tackle. Check out some of the designs available to anglers today, built with different features and materials, and priced at different levels.

Protect Against Rugged Air Travel

The beefy protection supplied by the hard-shelled Flambeau Bazuka Pro Rod Tube is perfect for taking your fishing rods on the airplane. The one-piece rod tube telescopes from a base of 63 inches all the way to 87 inches. The rod tube holds up to six 6-foot, 6-inch rods and meets all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) air travel requirements. Although the rod tube is lockable, TSA may cut the lock to take a look at what’s inside. The rod tube comes with a durable handle so you can carry the case with one hand. Add shirts and pants to the rod tube, that might otherwise go in your suitcase, to pack tight and protect the rods in transit. If there’s any extra room in the rod tube, don’t be afraid to add other fishing tackle like weights, hooks, or lures. Flambeau makes one larger rod tube that telescopes to (8.5 feet) 102 inches.

Bring All Your Light Tackle Fishing Setups

If you want to pack all your gear in one bag, but don’t need a hard-shell covering, consider soft-sided storage. Soft-sided storage works great for travel in a car or truck. The Etna Fishing Rod Case Organizer storage bag allows anglers to store and carry up to 5 rods and reels in the sleeves on the outside of the bag. A 34-inch pocket on the outside has an adjustable clip lock. An interior compartment has room for extra reels, tackle and gear. When not in use, the bag folds flat like a duffel bag. Add a cardboard tube from your local home improvement store to make the inside bag rigid.

A Rod Carrier for Fly Fishermen

Fly fishermen who have delicate fishing rods that break down into 3 or 4 pieces can utilize less bulky rod storage in hard or soft sided versions. The Allen Cottonwood Fishing Rod and Gear Bag is soft sided, but handles up to four 4-piece 9-foot, 6-inch rods. Eight adjustable dividers inside allow the angler to pack rods one trip, or maybe reels, line, tackle trays and other gear on another trip. Interior see-through zippered pockets are great spot to pack tippets or pliers. The main compartment inner dimensions measure 30.5 inches by 8.75 inches by 3.75 inches.

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Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Jason sealock.

• Oct 09, 2023

Choosing a travel rod for anglers who like to pack light and carry a fishing rod in their luggage on every where they travel requires a little planning and view of the options and fish you think you might encounter on your travels. We reviewed a wide gamut of rods and came up with a lot of options to consider as well as some great recommendations for which fishing rods we would suggest for a lot of different types of fishing and travel.

Things like size of the rod when disassembled, number of pieces, rod case, roll or bag, type of rod, how you will transport it, whether a telescoping rod makes sense and more need to be considered before choosing the best travel rod for your fishing plans.  

Travel rods can come from 2 pieces up to 5 pieces not to mention the telescoping travel rod options out there. You might want to fit the rod in a suitcase, if so more pieces will break down into a smaller foot print. Or you might carry it with you which might give you more options for rods. You might want a hard case to protect the rod if you’re worried about TSA or some other party damaging your rods in transit. Or a rod wrap may suffice if it’s tucked inside of another hard case suitcase.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Best telescoping travel combo – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Best travel rod for bass – Buy from FishUSA
• Runner up: Daiwa ardito travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best all-around / saltwater travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best telescopic travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Runner up: Ugly stik cx2 4-piece travel combo – Buy from Basspro
• Ark rods genesis rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Zebco 33 spincast telescopic combo – Buy from Basspro
• Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• St. croix triumph travel rod – Buy from Tacklewarehouse

Know Your Travel Rods

Then there are the types of rod to consider including spinning travel rods, casting travel rods, telescoping travel rods as well as travel fly rods or specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or travel trout or panfish rods. Or any combination of the aforementioned.  

If you plan to fish with light lures and light line, then a spinning travel rod might be the best option. If you plan to look for big bluegills or crappies specifically on your travels, then a long telescoping rod might make more sense or a small spinning rod like a trout rod might give you a lot of options for trout and panfish.

If you’re going for larger quarry, you will want a beefier rod that has a reel that can hold heavier line. Usually a baitcasting travel rod makes sense for bass, or big fish like walleye, pike, musky, stripers, etc.  

Specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or extra long jigging rods might be just the ticket for probing unknown waters for specific types of fishing like jigging brush for crappie or casting oversized swimbaits for trophy bass and stripers.  

Of course if you’re in to fly fishing, then a travel fly rod is hard to beat. There are some super high end and middle of the road options that are great rods that make a 9-foot fly rod fit into an over night travel bag with the travel fly rod option.

CONSIDER TELESCOPING RODS FOR TRAVEL

For some, a telescoping rod is an easy spur of the moment travel rod option to probe some nearby waters to see if they have fish available. I have buddies that keep telescoping rods in their trucks at all times and will break it out on their travels or while taking a lunch or after work on a work trip. It’s a quick and simple option.

Most of time telescoping rods are a bit lower quality. Or at least that was the case back when the only option was a low end push button spin cast combo for small panfish. There are, however, some newer options bringing this back as a real viable option for bass and panfish.

A Travel Combo Might Make More Sense

You can buy travel rods that are a rod and reel combo. This is often the case with telescoping options. But there are some better quality options in the multi-piece travel rods with a decent spinning reel. Most of the time. I want the best rod I can get and a good reel in my bag so I’m not fighting my equipment in the limited amount of time I get to fish on my travels. Especially those spur-of-the-moment unplanned fishing trips while traveling.  

But when you get to a location and wished you had a rod and reel, a decent priced telescoping rod/reel combo can get you in the fish on an unexpected hot spot quickly and easily.

You Need a Travel Rod Case, Bag or Roll

Anymore your travel rod is going to come in a hard case, a roll or a bag. Regardless you need to take care to protect the pieces of the rod or the rod while it is compartmentalized so it’s not damaged in your travels.  

A hard case might be a cloth case with a hard shell inside of it that zips closed on the end and the multiple pieces slide into little sleeves inside of it. Or it might be a hard outer shell with a soft interior that keeps your guides and blank parts protected. These are nice when you plan to carry your travel rods separate from your luggage. Or keep them in a vehicle on your travels.

A travel rod roll is just a cloth sleeve with individual pockets for each piece of the blank and then you roll it up with flap that closes on one end and tie it off with the attached ties. These can be nice for putting a rod or two into your other travel bags or a small compartment in your vehicle.

A travel bag can be just a cloth bag or a padded foam bag that houses and protects the rod simultaneously. I’m a fan of these as they keep your pieces from falling out as sometimes happens with rolls. And they keep the blank pieces with a bit of added protection. The padded bags are ideal in my opinion.  

Best Travel Rod Brands

In the freshwater space, the best travel rod makers are often synonymous with the best rod makers. Makers like Daiwa, Shimano, St. Croix, Megabass, Ark Rods, Fenwick, and others have really solid travel rod options. Others that many don’t know offer travel rods have good options like Favorite, Bass Pro, and BnM Poles.  

Here are the travel rod brands we reviewed and liked:

• Favorite Fishing
• B’n’M Poles

Having said all that, let’s take a closer look at some of our personal favorites in various travel rod categories.

Best Telescoping Travel Combo

Daiwa travel combo.

We chose the Daiwa Travel Combo as the best combo because it comes with a good reel, telescoping rod that is better than most and it’s own sling carry bag that is big enough to put several travel rods and reels in. This combo compacts down to 26 inches making it a perfect option for any trip whether it be in a car or a plane.

The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch Medium power fast action rod. It’s a solid rod and stayed extended as we fished with it. The reel is a 2-bearing Daiwa Crossfire LT 2500. Even though it’s only 2 bearings, it performed very smoothly and effortlessly with a very smooth drag. It’s a solid spinning combo and it’s offered in EVA or Cork grips.

The combo costs $149 but if you just want a good combo without messing around with pairing rods and reels, this is a quick easy choice.

Buy at TackleWarehouse

Best Travel Rod for Bass

Shimano zodias travel rod.

The fact that Shimano took one of their best rod lines and converted it into a high-end bass travel rod got me excited. And when I got the new rod in my hand, I was very impressed. I am a big fan of the original Zodias line and was so excited to see this level of quality in a 5-piece travel rod.  

This travel rod condenses down to 19 inches when packed, meaning you can literally take it anywhere. And when full assembled you have a very high quality rod full of all the features of the high end one-piece blanks. The 5-piece construction gives the rod more uniform bend than a 2-piece model would.  

It has so much power and a steady consistent load when casting. You will forget it’s a travel rod by your second cast. It’s a high end rod that just happens to be in 5 pieces. It has a CI4+ reel seat for lightweight strength and a full carbon monocoque grip which eliminates the use of EVA giving a light rod more sensitivity.

Hi-Power X construction which makes the blanks outermost layer wrapped with carbon tape form that X appearance on the blank that gives more precise actions to the rods with more strength.  

You can really lean into fish with this rod without worry. It’s one of the nicest travel rods we’ve tested.

Buy at FishUSA.com

Buy from Omnia

Runner Up: Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

This is another high-end rod that has been brought down to a travel rod form factor. This rod comes with a very nice hard case and it breaks down to 30 inches (32 in its case). It features a V-flex ferrule joint system. These ferrules don’t require you to jam the rod pieces all the way together and then struggle to separate them. You simply push them until they snug together and you are all set. You can break down and put the rod together in seconds and be fishing as fast as you can thread your line.  

The rod has a high-modulus blank, Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides, unsanded micro-pitch blank, split Eva grip and machined nut hood. It’s a high quality rod that pairs nicely with your favorite bait caster. It comes in 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium heavy and 7-foot, 6-inch medium heavy.

Buy at BassPro.com

Best All-Around / Saltwater Travel Rod

St. croix avid trek rod.

This is a finely crafted American rod with incredible blanks offering uniform performance, strength and ultra-perceptive sensitivity. The premium cork full grip, and quality blanks featuring St. Croix’s IPC mandrels, SCII high modulus carbon, slim profile ART ferrules, Sea Guide Hero hi-grade guides with zirconia rings and stainless gun smoke frames, sea guide hook keeper, and a 15-year-transferable warranty.  

This rod can literally do it all. Going to Louisiana to fish the marshes for bass and redfish, this is your rod. Strong, light, smooth, sensitive and easy to pack. The 3-piece rod is 6-foot, 6-inch MH rod with a lot of power but great castability. This rod is a joy to fish with and you can expect it to last a long time with that kind of warranty.

Best Telescopic Travel Rod

Bass pro aventur1 telescoping rod.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Aventur1 telescoping rod. It features 6 sections but 8 guides for uniform castability and a nice line path while fighting fish. The unique guide system has floating guides as well as guides permanently affixed to the rod sections. So you won’t fight with line on the blank on this travel rod.  

The 7-foot medium power rod fished really well and I was pretty taken aback at how nice this rod fished for $59. A rod that will likely always be in my travel plans. With an RT2 graphite blank, Fuji aluminum oxide guides, Fuji reel seat, with EVA split grips and X-Wrap rubber cork butt cap, this is a pretty functional telescoping rod for travel fishing.

Best Big Swimbait Travel Rod

F5 departure travel rods.

The folks at F5 Custom Rods make some of the nicest big swimbait rods available today. These are custom made rods from blanks to handles to accents. They are often very selective in how they build rods and you usually have to get lucky enough to catch a rod on a drop. However, the F5 Departure Travel Rods are often in stock and I picked up a H and XH rod a year or so back.

These are two of my favorite big swimbait rods that I use for crankdowns like the Bull Shad 4×4 and the Toxic Whippersnappers, for glides like the 86 Baits Doomrider, KGB Swimbaits Chad Shad or the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 and of course for my jointed swims like the Bull Shad 8 inch.

The rods are both 3-piece rods and are custom made with a full extra long camo EVA handle. The ones the often sell are split grips. The rod blanks are solid. Even with three pieces I had no issues heaving big baits like the Slide Swimmer which weighs 6 1/2 ounces.

They are going to run you about $289 a piece for these rods. But I am so happy to have them because I can take a pack of my favorite big baits and a very high-end swimbait rod literally everywhere I go to chase trophies all over the country and out of the country for that matter.

Buy at F5 Custom Rods

Best Travel Rod on a Budget

Favorite fishing army geo rod.

This is an impressive rod not only for the price but for how well this 4-piece rod fishes and fights fish. We caught some really quality bass on this rod this spring and it is a legit fun spinning rod to fish. I love that I threw it in my suitcase, loaded up and went to Arkansas and broke it out and caught a bunch of nice bass that were moving shallow to spawn.  

Even my brother-in-law enjoyed fishing with this travel rod. And at $39, it’s a hard rod to pass up. The 4 pieces in their hard travel tube are 26 inches. The pieces are barely 23 inches. The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch medium-heavy spinning rod. I used it to skip Senkos around shallow cover a lot this spring. And it sets a nice hook and has a ton of backbone to land big bass. Our biggest on it was 6 pounds, 4 ounces this spring.

Buy at FavoriteUSA.com

Runner up: Ugly Stik GX2 4-piece Travel Combo

At $44 at Walmart, you can’t go wrong with this nearly indestructible travel rod. The Ugly Stik has been the staple of affordable travel rods. They can take abuse and continue to catch and land fish.  

Buy from Walmart.com

Buy at Scheels

Best Trout Travel Rod

St. croix trout series pack rod  .

For the adventurer who needs a light and packable trout rod to get to remote locations, this is the Cadillac of adventure rods. This rod says trout, but it’s a dynamite bluegill, crappie and even smallmouth rod for remote streams and creeks. It’s a beautifully built rod at only 2.9 ounces and 3 pieces, it compacts down to be no added weight in your backpack.  

I paired it with a small 1000 spinning reel and 4-pound line and really enjoyed fishing this rod a lot. It will become one of my staple creek travel rods now. It throws little baits effortlessly and had a nice backbone for such a light rod. A real joy to fish with.

Buy from FishUSA.com

Best Panfish Telescoping Rod

Bnm poles little mighty telescoping rod  .

I have to admit, I’m a little blow away by this rod. I grew up crappie and bluegill fishing with my father in Florida and Arkansas with telescoping fiberglass rods from B’n’M Poles. So I have a lot of nostalgia when it comes to these types of rod. But the new Little Mighty Rod is something special.

While it’s not technically a travel rod, it’s a telescoping rod that reaches out to 20 feet and breaks down to barely 22 inches. It looks like a bright orange track baton but it extends to a masterful reach out and touch a crappie or bluegill telescoping rod quickly.

One word of caution, be sure you extend the rod small sections first. So grab the string tab on the tip and pull it out that way. Don’t slide the sections out by dumping the open end out or you will have issues with sections getting out of order and blocking each other. Same for breaking it down. Big sections first and be sure to leave the string out when you put the cap on.  

Other than that, I enjoyed testing this rod a lot. I honestly didn’t think much of it when I got it. But after using it I can think of all sorts of places I want to take and fish with this rod. Once you get the hang of maneuvering 20 feet of rod with a fish on the end it’s a pretty fun stick to fish with.

Buy at Walmart.com

Buy from BnmPoles.com

Other Travel Rod Considerations

Ark rods genesis rods.

This was my original travel rod and I’ve put a lot of miles on it. It’s caught fish in Nebraska, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. This is a two piece travel rod that comes with a nice padded bag.

Read our full Ark Genesis 2-piece travel rod review

The rod joins together nicely and fishes so well. The very narrow blanks are durable and sensitive. I’ve caught fish just about every way you can on these rods. I have the 6-foot, 8-inch MH and the 7-foot, 6-inch MH rods and have flipped, frogged, spinnerbait fished, jigged, cranked, popped a topwater popper and burned a buzz bait with these rods. A great option that gives no sacrifice in performance in a 2-piece travel rod.

SixGill Argos Travel Rods

A very nicely made travel pack rod, the Argos Travel Rod is a 4-piece rod built on a 24T Toray Carbon blank. Comes with a 25 inch travel case. It fishes like your nicest bass rod but you can tuck it under a jacket and take it with you anywhere. The rod loads nicely on the cast and has enough back bone with it’s 7-foot MH frame to fight any size bass you might tangle with. A very nice travel rod option.  

Buy from Sixgillfishing.com

Zebco 33 Spincast Telescopic Combo

This is an affordable option at $25 but it’s not made to handle big fish in my opinion. It’s a great rod for catching panfish around a campsite, or of the dock on vacation. But it’s not made for fishing for larger fish. The rod bends easily at the tip under load and the line cuts across the rod to the next guide. So just be cautious with bigger fish on this setup. But for $25, you can catch the heck out of a bunch of panfish with this setup.

Buy at Amazon

Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod

I haven’t had a chance to review the latest offerings from Hardy yet, but one of my all time favorite travel rods is my Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod. It’s a 9-foot, 5-weight rod. It is the perfect pack rod for hiking into remote streams and chasing fish on the fly. This is the Ferrari of travel rods in my opinion. Everything is first class from the aluminum case, styled bag, ferrule covers, and beautiful craftsmanship on the Sintrix 440 blank.  

Buy from Hardyrodsandreels.com

Shimano Convergence Travel Rod

This 7-foot, 4-piece rod is another great do-it all travel rod. It’s a great rod for a lot of different species and lures in that 1/4 ounce to 3/4 ounce size. It breaks down to 25 inches so it will fit in almost all your bags and it comes in a nice hard case with a shoulder strap if you want to carry it on your back while you hike. It’s very well made and fished nicely with a variety of reels.

Spinning rod

Casting rod.

Buy at Tackle Warehouse

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

This work-horse travel rod serves a ton of different purposes. It’s 6-foot, 6-inch size makes it a great size for tight quarters. I loved fishing some small streams near the house with this rod. A fun little rod for wading creeks or winging around on bigger waters on your travels. It’s small form factor of 24 inches makes it a great pack rod to keep in your vehicle or throw in your bag on long trips. It’s a very nice blank divided into 4 pieces. It’s strong, sensitive and light. A great travel version of their very popular Triumph line.  

Wired2fish Travel Rod Comparison Chart

We review a ton of products and while they don’t always make the best of categories there are a lot of good rods to choose from that can get the job done. We try to give you as many options as possible while identifying some that we think stand out in the array of options. The goal with our guides is to help you be as informed and aggregate as much helpful information and personal experience into helping you with your fishing gear decisions.  

Here is a quick rundown of a lot of travel rod / telescoping rod options:

Currently working as Senior Advisor to Wired2fish. Former COO and Publisher, Jason Sealock came to Wired2fish shortly after inception in January of 2010. Prior to that he was the Editor-in-Chief of FLW Outdoors Magazines. He worked up from Associate Editor to Photo Editor and finally Editor in Chief of three magazines FLW Bass, FLW Walleye and FLW Saltwater. He set the content direction for Wired2fish while also working directly with programmers, consultants and industry partners. Sealock has been an avid angler for the better part of 40 years and has been writing and shooting fishing and outdoors content for more than 25 years. He is an expert with fishing electronics and technologies and an accomplished angler, photographer, writer and editor. He has taught a lot of people to find fish with their electronics and has been instrumental in teaching these technologies to the masses. He's also the industry authority on new fishing tackle and has personally reviewed more than 10,000 products in his tenure. He has a 30-year background in information technologies and was a certified engineer for a time in Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, and HP. He mostly fishes for bass and panfish around the house. He has, however, caught fish in 42 of the 50 states in the US as well as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada and hopes to soon add Finland, Japan, Africa and Australia to his list.

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How to Select Your Next Travel Fishing Rod Hard Case

• By Sam Hudson
• Updated: November 20, 2019

Bringing your own tackle is absolutely necessary at remote fishing destinations, where locally anglers don’t have access to quality fishing gear. Unfortunately, many anglers who travel abroad have had their fishing rods broken while in transit. It’s a hard lesson to learn, arriving at your destination, finding your gear manhandled.

No doubt, airlines are tough on baggage. They expect the passenger to take extra precautions to protect their own gear. Thankfully, hard-shell rod tubes for fishing rods are easily available for anglers to buy from different manufacturers. The hard case is the top option for anglers travelling via airplane, as it best protects against broken tips, guides and butts better than soft-sided bags.

Pack your rod tubes with clothing and other soft material to prevent the rods from banging against each other. Use packing peanuts, use bubble wrap, or even your clean underwear. Just pack it tight enough so that your rods are not able to move around when your rod tube is rocking and rolling in the belly of an aircraft.

All Around Options

Flambeau’s contoured, blow-molded Bazuka rod tube is tough, built to stop the bends, crushes or breaks that destroy rods in a soft-sided bag. With a 3-inch diameter, and measuring anywhere from 63 to a telescoped 87 inches, the one-piece rod tube handles up to six 6-foot, 6-inch rods. The tube is padded at both ends to protect rod tips and rod butts. Airports can’t reject this type of luggage, as it meets all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) air travel requirements. The rod tube is lockable for extra security, and comes with a durable handle for easy handling.

Telescope for Success

Plano’s 4.5-inch diameter Guide Series Airliner Telescoping Rod Tube features a three-tier design that collapses as small as 47 inches long or extends as long as 88 inches. At 44 inches, easily store it in a closet when not in use. Its smallest setting is still large enough for 3-piece spinning rods or 4-piece fly rods. At 88 inches, the rod tube handles up to eight 7-foot rods. A

convenient carry handle allows the rod tube be lugged around an airport easily. You won’t find many rod tubes that can handle more fishing rods than this one.

A Different Approach

Sometimes a hard case built for a completely separate purpose is the perfect option for a rod case. The Valterra Black carrier’s intended purpose is for a hose, but measuring 50 up to 94 inches, and with a diameter of almost 5 inches, it’s a perfect option for fishing rods. The tube is easily adjustable, has hinged door caps with twist latch closures, and even spot for a padlock. What’s unique about this case is that it comes with a mounting bracket and screws to install to a roof rack with a little ingenuity. That keeps the rods out of the truck cabin and safely stored on the roof.

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When featuring or reviewing a product we may provide a link advising readers where to purchase. If you purchase the product through the link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. More importantly you will not pay any more for this product as you would if you landed directly on the product website.

Rod tubes are essential for fishing travel. By air, train, land, or sea, these rod tubes will keep your fishing rods safe and secure for a very long time.

Traveling with your precious fishing rods always brings a bit of stress to your fishing trip.

Will the rods arrive safely at the correct destination? Did I pack them tight enough? Will the airline luggage handlers take the FRAGILE sticker seriously or do they see them at all?

But before even worrying about your rods arriving in the correct country, you must decide what and how to pack your rods for the trip.

Thus, our topic for today, fishing rod tubes.

Tough, durable, easy to use and airline approved fishing rod tubes.

As a fishing destination, we take a lot of guests fishing.

From picking up guests from the airport, setting up their gear, helping them pack up for their trip back home, and sending them off to the airport, we have handled a multitude of rod tubes.

We’ve seen rod tubes bent and broken beyond repair, and we’ve seen and handled rod tubes that looked like it has been through war and can’t wait to go back.

DIY rod tubes made out of PVC pipe and overly built rod tubes built by their local fabricator.

Most will not survive the drills of keeping fishing rods safe and secure for international fishing travel, but some accomplish the task very well.

Below, we list down our top 3 fishing rod tubes designed for international fishing travel and built to survive years of use and luggage handling abuse.

But before we proceed to show our top 3 rod tubes, let’s talk about what to look for in a good traveling rod tube and what to avoid when you decide to buy one.

Materials and Construction

The most common and most practical material used for fishing rod tubes is hard plastic.

They are lightweight and easily malleable and can be formed into unlimited shapes and forms, thus making this the perfect material for rod tubes.

They can be made tough but still flexible to avoid being brittle and prone to cracking.

Its flexibility allows it to withstand pressure from all angles, while still being stiff enough to protect the rods within.

Plastic lasts almost forever and if you choose a good rod tube, expect it to outlast your fishing career too.

Ease of Use

How to get your rods in and out of your rod tube easily is an important factor when deciding to pick a rod tube.

You wouldn’t want to be just putting your rods together while the other guys are on the boat, ready and waiting.

And you wouldn’t want to be left scratching your head when the time comes to pack up for the flight home.

The simplest rod tube designs are often the most efficient.

A rod tube with a big opening to easily slide rods in and out of the case is important.

Forget about rod cases that open like briefcases. The latches or slider locks always break after the first few uses, and you’ll find yourself needing to duct tape your rod case to keep it closed.

Briefcase style rod cases are also a nightmare to pack. If you’re like me, and you always bring ‘spare rods just in case’, you’ll always have to arrange the rods in a certain way before you can even attempt to close it shut.

Whereas the simple wide-mouthed bazooka rod tubes accept rods easily.

Even if you tend to bring too many rods, a little wiggling, and some twisting is all it takes to get them all to fit nicely.

The rod tubes we list down below are well worth the price.

Ranging from US$110 – 230, the value they will bring to you is immeasurable when traveling with your precious fishing rods.

“$200 for a rod tube you say. I’ll make one on my own for less than a quarter of the costs of a store-bought one, and it’ll be tougher and more protective!”

Yes, of course, you may want to go the DIY route at first but trust me when I say that the rod tubes listed below are plenty worth every penny.

DIY rod tubes made from pipes are either too heavy or too brittle for international travel.

More weight means more expenses for excess luggage weight. And the lighter you go in terms of PVC size, the more anxiety it’ll cause you throughout the flights.

Invest a little more into your fishing gear travel cases, and your gear will thank you for it.

Protect your rods and you’ll catch your fish. You’ll get to protect your dignity too.

With all that being said, let’s start with one of the most popular rod tubes from SporTube.

SporTube Series 1 and 2

And by chance, an angler gets his hands on the case and realizes how well it swallows fishing rods of all sizes.

The SporTubes are length adjustable and can fit most rod sizes except for super long surf rods exceeding 8 feet in length when broken down.

Its hard plastic shell is more than thick enough and will protect our rods while in transit.

SporTube also offers 3 sizes to choose from, but the Series 1 and Series 2 sizes are the most practical for us anglers.

The Series 1 can fit up to 3 GT popping rods and 2 jigging rods.

While the Series 2 can fit up to 6 GT rods and 4 jigging rods, more if you are feeling lucky.

SporTubes come in black or orange. I am one for the orange color as it is easy to see and find in a busy airport and when transporting it through dense jungles and forests.

They also have wheels so to make them easy to pull around when traveling.

The SporTubes have some foam padding at each end, but not enough to just trust it without extra padding.

We’ll talk about how to properly pack the rods later on.

The case locking pin is extremely easy to use but does cause a lot of stress when lost.

This case locking pin is used to both lock the case and lock in the length of your tube when adjusting it.

It may seem a bit flimsy as it is the only thing securing your rod tube together, but it is tough and has yet to fail me.

Also, fishing rod tubes are often opened for inspection, and SporTube’s case locking pin can be easily misplaced by baggage checkers.

My tip is to tether the clip onto the case’s handle with some spare braid, minimum PE6, paracord, or old jigging assist cords you have lying around.

I’d also order some spares  to keep in my tackle bag just in case it goes missing.

All in all, the SporTube Series 1 or 2 cases are an incredible value for the traveling angler.

Strong, light, easy to use, and has a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

Plano Jumbo Airliner

Plano has been making tackle storage systems since 1952, and with the Airliner, has possibly been the first to design and market a rod tube for the international travel angling community.

Its tube’s inner diameter measures in at 8.5 inches or 21.59cm which allows it to swallow your saltwater casting and jigging rods with aplomb.

The Jumbo Airliner has a screw-on type cap closure that firmly locks into place with a satisfying “clunk”. Although simple in design, the clasp works well and has yet to fail during trips.

That said, I would still recommend a bit of duct tape to secure the cap on.

It has a similar case locking pin with the SporTube cases that lock the rod tube’s length.

I’d lash this locking pin onto the case with paracord, spare braid or assist cord so I won’t easily misplace it.

The Jumbo Airliner also has big solid wheels to make it easier to transport in and around airports.

It only comes in black though. Customize it with your favorite fishing brand’s stickers or paint your details on it with white paint to make it easily seen from afar.

A solid, no-frills choice for the no-nonsense angler. The Plano Jumbo Airliner is a great bet for international fishing travel and will easily get the job done.

Flambeau Bazuka Pro Rod Tube

Flambeau claims that it is “One Tough Son of a Gun” and when you feel the thickness of the tube’s shell, you’ll quickly agree.

The tube’s inner diameter measures in at 6 inches or 15.24cm. Not as big as the SporTube series 2 or the Plano Jumbo Airliner but will still easily swallow 6 saltwater fishing rods with ease.

The Bazuka Pro utilizes a simple ‘clasp’ type closure system for its hinged rod entryway.

Its simple design may look too primitive, but it works well. It being a plastic closure system makes it resistant to any sort of corrosion or ‘sticking’.

I’ve yet to see the clasps pull off from extreme abuse, but it may happen, but extremely late into its lifespan.

You also won’t need to rely on the clasp to keep it secure all the time anyway. Right below the clasp is where you would lock the tube with a separate padlock.

So once your clasp decides to send it and fall into the ocean, you can still secure the rod tube’s hatch with a snug-fitting padlock and some duct tape.

Like the two rod tubes above, the Bazuka Pro also uses the clip lock to secure the rod tube in its chosen length.

Tie some braid on it and tether it to your rod tube to avoid misplacing it.

And if you still manage to lose it, zip ties are a must in your tackle bag.

Packing Tips

• If your rod comes with a sleeve or protective cover, keep it on when placing your rods in the rod tube. It helps keep the rods from slamming into each other and allows you to pack them tightly against each other without fear of scratching their finish.
• To maximize the rod tube’s space, arrange rods in an end-to-end orientation. Thick rod butt sections at opposite ends of the tube.
• Secure your rods together with rod straps. If you don’t have any, get some. They are time savers! And you can use them on the boats as well. They are stretchy thick bands that have Velcro on them so you can secure multiple rods together.
• If you don’t have rod straps with you, some string, bungee cord, or tape will get you through the trip. Just make sure you pack the rods together snugly.
• Pack the rods into the rod tube until there is no free space for the rods to slide around and damage themselves. Freely sliding rods are the number one cause of broken rod tips.
• The best material to use to keep things snug inside the rod tube is bubble wrap. We won’t have bubble wrap laying around the house all the time. Use your fishing shirts and shorts that you’ll use on the trip to secure the rods inside the rod tube. Wrap them around the rods before sliding them into the tube.
• Do the shake test always! Pack the rods into the rod tube, close it and shake from all sides and up and down. If you feel or hear any movement inside, open the tube and add some more clothing.
• Don’t be afraid to stick on as many fragile stickers on the rod tube as possible. The luggage handlers may still not notice it, but it feels cool to bring around a big bazooka looking tube around the airport with fragile stickers all over it.
• Secure everything inside so they don’t move around. If you intend to put in some spools of line, some lures, jigs, or other stuff, make sure to secure them with the rods. Nothing should be left freely moving inside. Nothing.
• Always bring a roll of duct tape. Keep it in your tackle bag, or your check-in luggage. It’ll find its use one day, and you’ll be glad you have it.

If you want more detailed packing tips for international fishing travel, click here to read our saltwater fishing packing list .

There are tons of other options out there that will suit any budget. And there are tons of other rod tubes that we’ve seen fail time and again.

To prevent any legal action against me, I won’t mention any of the brands that have failed us and our guests alike, but I’m sure you can easily discern which ones are quality and which ones are bootleg copies.

Investing a bit more for a better-built rod tube is a no-brainer. Something that keeps your expensive GT popping and jigging rods safe throughout an international fishing trip is an investment in itself.

Don’t be the guy who buys the cheapest rod tube available and ends up with 8 broken rods even the trip even starts.

What rod tube do you use?

If you are looking for a true sport fishing company that offers you more than just a Vanuatu fishing adventure , look no further than Ocean Blue Fishing.

Call us now at (AU) 1300 564 616 or at (INTL) +61 436 020322 or you may also contact us through our website at www.oceanbluefishing.com/enquire

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Travel Light, Fish Right: Best Travel Fishing Rods For On-The-Go Anglers

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Whether planning a week-long fishing trip or hoping to escape and do some fishing on a family vacation, travel fishing rods are essential for any angler. Due to their construction, they pack down to fit in a rucksack so you can easily carry them on a motorbike, bus, or even as a part of your checked baggage on an airplane.

Whether you are a fly, spin, carp, or saltwater angler, all have excellent travel rod choices.

In this article, I will cover the following: 

• What To Look For When Choosing A Travel Fishing Rod
• Travel fly rods
• Travel spinning rods
• Travel carp rods
• Travel sea fishing rods
• Frequently Asked Questions

What To Look For When Choosing A Travel Fishing Rod 

When purchasing a travel rod, you want to make sure you’re paying attention to a few separate essential details! 

Travel Rod Length 

Most anglers searching for travel rods aren’t hopping on an airplane and traveling worldwide to pursue a unique species. Many jump in the car or take public transportation to their favorite location. As a result, you want to make sure the rod you travel with is collapsible. If possible, ensure your rod can collapse down to 36 inches! 

Depending on the rod type, you may be able only to find one that can break down to a length of 40” or 46”. So choose wisely, as you don’t want to sacrifice quality for a smaller length.  

You’ll find that many companies are making their own versions of travel rods that are not quality. They are often affordable, but anglers pay the price when they hit the water. The rods easily break, or they aren’t as advertised. 

Stay with well-known fishing brands that can be trusted and have a warranty. You wouldn’t waste your money on a poor-quality normal rod, so follow that same protocol with your travel rod! 

Best Travel Fly Rods

Thankfully, most fly rods are “travel-ready.” Many break down into four pieces, typically around 36” in length. However, if you need even smaller rods, some good options exist! 

Orvis Clearwater 6 Piece

If you’re familiar with Orvis, you know how high-quality their fly rods are. The Clearwater 6-piece travel model is the option for intermediate anglers. It isn’t overly complicated to fish. The moderate fast action is good for streams, rivers, and lakes. 

You will likely struggle to find a travel fly rod that’s better than this! You have a 4-weight 8’, 5-weight 8’6”, 5-weight 9’, 6-weight 9’, and 8-weight 9’. These weights and lengths are great for trout, bass, steelhead, and salmon fishing. This rod will fit anywhere on a plane or in your car. 

When broken down, the six pieces break down into only 22.5 inches. This is extremely small and can fit into any carry-on or as a personal item! You’ll still have Orvis’ 25-year warranty when you purchase this rod. This is a nice warranty since travel rods get heavy usage, and there is more that can go wrong when there are six total pieces you’re working with. 

Orvis also offers a travel fly combo outfit option, including line and reel. If you aren’t interested in pairing the rig with your own equipment, you can purchase your own reel, and everything will be well-balanced. 

While Orvis isn’t known for bargain basement pricing, you’ll get one of the best travel fly fishing rods on the market for a mid-to-high price range. 

Redington Trailblazer Fly Rod 

The Redington Trailblazer is another travel fly fishing rod that will be up for any challenge that you put to the test. Redington makes both a 3-weight and 5-weight option for anglers. The 7’6” 3-weight is great if you head to backcountry mountain streams or small alpine lakes . The 9’6” 5-weight is good if you’re heading somewhere with bigger fish or more challenging conditions. 

When broken down, the rod tube is only 30”, so you should be able to fit it on a plane on your carry-on or under the backseat of your car. Wherever you use it, it’s going to store away nicely! Many anglers will choose to use this as their backcountry rod. While fly rods aren’t heavy, the Redington Trailblazer is especially light! It’ll fit nicely on your backpack, and you won’t notice it. 

The red and yellow colors look great! It’s a unique design in terms of fly rods. Don’t worry about the quality. Redington’s lifetime warranty protects it so that you can fish this hard. 

In the mid to high-priced price range, you’ll have a similar price to the Clearwater from Orvis. They’re similar rods in terms of quality! Redington is a reputable brand that has continuously flown under the radar. Don’t underestimate the quality of these rods. 

Best Travel Spinning Rods

In terms of travel rods, you will find the most options available come in the form of spinning rods. Companies that don’t even specialize in fishing equipment have found themselves in the travel spinning rod market. It’s those poor, cheap-quality travel rods you should avoid!

My two choices are far from the unknown; Shimano and Fenwick are right at the top of their game regarding fishing rods.

Shimano S.T.C. Mini-Tele Spinning Rod

Shimano has been a reputable fishing company for years. Anglers of all levels have success with these rods! The mini-tele spinning rod is a unique design that is perfect for travel. This rod comes in two pieces. The first piece includes the cork handle and reel seat. The next section of this rod is the telescopic portion. The total extended length ranges from 70 inches to 106 inches! 

Whatever rod you choose, you can choose from eight different weights and lengths to fit whatever type of fishing you’re doing. All of these models have eight line guides regardless of the weight and length of the rod you choose. 

These rods are made with Shimano’s XT60 blank material, a full cork grip, and a Shimano DPS reel seat. You have all the normal guarantees of Shimano packed into the travel rod. 

These rods break down into a case and are easily stored in a backpack or the trunk of your car. When fully broken down, the longest models are only 15 inches long! Take them with you as you bike, hike, or take public transport to a local lake or river. Trout, panfish, and even fish such as small-sized bass and pike are all catchable with this rod. However, large bass and other fish over 5 lbs are not suited for this rod. 

This is my only telescopic choice in all of my rods for travel, and I am not a big fan of telescopic rods due to their usually inferior quality and strength. However, the Shimano STC is the exception – it’s well-constructed and is a top telescopic option for a travel rod.

Fenwick HMG Travel Rod 

The HMG Travel Rod from Fenwick is another affordable and high-quality option for anglers looking to fish while traveling. If you know fishing history, you’ll remember that Fenwick rods were the first to use graphite technology. 

The rod uses Powerlux 100 resin technology, a lightweight graphite blank with stainless steel guides, and a cork handle. The Powerlux technology increases the rod’s strength by over 10 percent compared to previous models. 

Fenwick provides anglers an extra tip in case you snap or break yours. This is a great feature for travel rods. Since they’re used in challenging and tight spaces, accidents can happen. The extra tip gives you peace of mind that you can fish the rod hard without worrying about what could go wrong. 

The rod breaks down into three sections that work well for traveling. When fully broken down, it’s only around 30 inches. When packed in the rod tube, you can fit it easily in your trunk or on the side of your backpack. The most common option for anglers is the 7’6” model. Depending on your needs, this comes in medium light and a medium action. 

Both the Shimano STC Mini-Tele and the Fenwick HMG travel rods are mid-price range options. This means you’re getting a great deal choosing either of them for fishing when traveling! 

Best Carp Fishing Travel Rods

Carp rods are a prized possession for many anglers. With carp being a species easily found worldwide, it’s hard not to travel with your carp rod! You never know when you will have a chance to get away and fish a local pond or river packed with them. 

Buying a carp travel fishing rod is also a great option for stalking carp in the margin areas. Their shorter length enables them to get to the harder-to-access areas, where trees are overhanging, and it’s near impossible to cast with longer rods.

Nash Scope Rod – Full Shrink

Nash is a trusted and popular brand amongst carp anglers. The Full Shrink handle model is one that many anglers could use in various situations. It’s all one piece, but the rod telescopes into itself and packs into a nice and compact design. 

You can choose a 9-foot and 10-foot long rod option with test curves ranging from 3 lbs, 3.25 lbs, and 3.5 lbs. These options are sufficient for almost any carp; I use the 9-foot option combined with a 3.25lb test curve option. 

Many anglers can cast upwards of 150 yards with the 9ft scope. You can fish the margins or larger waters, and the rod will be at home in either place. When fully contracted, the 9-foot models fold down to 44 inches, and the 10-foot models fold down to 50 inches. No, they don’t fold down as small as other travel rods, but the longer sizes ensure high quality. You won’t find these rods breaking after two or three uses.

You can haul in 30-pound carp with no problem with the Nash Scope rod. Also, if you get the chance to target salmon, pike, steelhead, or bass, these will equally work well for those. They’re designed to tackle carp, but they can land most other freshwater species. 

This rod is suitable for any angler. If you’re an experienced angler, you’ll find that you can get more out of this rod than you would think. If you’re new to carp fishing, it is a great first travel option, lasting many years. 

The Nash Scope Rod is an affordable travel rod at a mid-point price range.  

X5 Max Travel Fishing Rod 

The X5 Max Travel rod is one of the market’s most unique fishing rod designs. Within this one rod, you have nine different length combinations that you can use. It can be used as a travel spin casting, bait casting, float fishing, carp fishing, and fly fishing rod. Twelve interchangeable sections work together to create the type of rod you need. 

Once you have determined the right combination of tips, even decent sized carp can be landed with the heavier casting weight setup. 

The four separate tips come with rod casting weights ranging from 10-20g, 15-30g, and 25-50g. It is a remarkable rod with all the different features and pieces included. Most anglers find one method that works for them and stick to it, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can change things to be whatever you need. 

All aspects of this rod can fit in a 17” travel case when broken down. It’ll fit nicely into your backpack and is well protected with the camo color case. For a mid-range priced portable rod, you’re getting an impressive rod that’s up for whatever challenge you need. Anglers often find themselves surprised by how capable this rod is. It’s a jack of all trades that is one of the best and most versatile travel rod options. 

Best Sea Fishing Travel Rods

Travel sea fishing rods can be a point of contention for some anglers. Obviously, sea fishing rods are going to have to be extremely durable . You’re catching generally much larger fish and in a less forgiving environment. Travel saltwater fishing rods must be able to match the power and durability of a standard saltwater rod. Otherwise, you can snap your travel rod at any point.

Fiblink Portable Saltwater Offshore Travel Rod 

The Fiblink Portable Saltwater Offshore Travel Rod breaks down into three pieces and comes in four sizes. You have a 6’ heavy, 7’ medium heavy, 7’ heavy, and 8’ heavy. The heavy models can handle a 30-50 pound test, and the medium-heavy models can handle a 15-30 pound test. 

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The Fiblink is built for saltwater use. As a result, you don’t have to worry about saltwater corrosion. A good clean with fresh water will keep this rod in great shape once you’re done. Anglers have hauled in 80-pound sharks with this rod! Give yourself a chance to target some heavy fish and see what you find.  

This rod only breaks into three pieces, so it doesn’t lose quality or power compared to a 4-piece rod. Each piece is either 2 feet or 2.5 feet, depending on the rod size you purchase. While this isn’t the top-of-the-line sea fishing rod, it can hold its own and will last if you take good care of it. Most anglers wouldn’t use it as their primary fishing rod, but it works great for short-day trips to the sea! 

At an affordable low to mid-range pricing, you’ll get a quality rod that can fight the vast majority of saltwater fish you plan to target. 

World Traveller Travel Fishing Rod & Reel

Unlike all the other rods on the list, the World Traveller travel fishing combo comes with both the rod and the reel. This makes it my only travel combo rod and reel on this recommended list. One of the most significant challenges anglers face with travel rods is finding a reel that balances well with the weight. The World Traveller has a decent rod and gives you a properly balanced reel to match. 

The two options available for this rod are medium and heavy. The medium rod is 7’ long and can handle bass, panfish, and smaller pike. The heavy rod is 6’2” and can handle larger fish. 

One of the nice features of this rod and reel is that two additional tips come with the rod. Both are made of fiberglass and are relatively powerful. Also, this rod breaks down into six separate sections, which makes storing it especially easy. When broken down, this rod is only 16 inches long. 

The reel has a decent 5:1:1 ratio. You also receive an extra spool when you make the purchase! The spinning reel is saltwater ready. A quick rinse at the end of the day will prevent corrosion when fishing in saltwater areas. 

The pairing reel that World Traveler provides in this travel combo has an interchangeable handle for left or right-hand retrieve.

World Traveller offers anglers a two-year warranty when purchasing this brand-new rod. This is a great chance to fish this rod hard and see what it can do. You’ll struggle to find a travel rod that’s as high quality and reputable as this. At around mid-ranged pricing, you’re getting a great deal, and it even comes with a 2-year warranty! 

Best Travel Rods Summary 

There are hundreds of travel fishing rods for anglers to purchase. These decisions can be overwhelming! These packable fishing rods are typically not your regular rods, but they still should be up to the challenge of whatever fish you find. 

Again, please don’t buy cheap, inferior travel fishing rods from lesser-known manufacturers.

Travel Fishing Rods – Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a travel rod and a regular rod.

Generally, travel rods are collapsible and can be stored in smaller storage tubes. This way you can travel easily with them. Regular rods are troublesome to carry around and, in many cases, heavier and prone to damage.

Can I Take A Fishing Rod On A Plane?

Yes, airlines will allow fishing rods to be carried on a plane. If it is oversized (in length) like a normal fishing rod, you must check it separately, which could cost an additional fee. However, with short travel rods, you can easily hand carry or pack them safely into your check-in luggage. 

Check out this Jetstar Airlines notification: Can I bring my fishing rods on the plane? Most airlines will allow fishing rods on the plane.

What Are The TSA Regulations On Fishing Rods?

TSA allows fishing poles and also other tackle for carry-on and checked bags. For the most up-to-date information, check out the official TSA link!

What Is The Best Travel Fishing Rod For Bass?

There is no specific travel rod that you must use for bass fishing. The Shimano STC telescopic has all the features, strength, and versatility needed for a travel bass fishing rod. It can be used for various fishing styles in rivers or lakes, including lure fishing and when using natural baits.

Final Thoughts

Some anglers get concerned about buying a travel fishing rod. The quality is always a question for many anglers. There are always horror stories about hooking into a massive fish, but it breaks off due to one of the sectioned pieces snapping. 

All my recommended travel rod choices above will perform without worrying about them breaking. You never know when the opportunity to fish will come up on a trip, so it’s best to be prepared.

I hope this article was helpful and gave you all the information you need; check out my other posts on fishing rods covering a full range for every type of fishing style.  

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The Best Travel Fishing Rods of 2024

By Pete Robbins

Updated on May 24, 2023 5:36 PM EDT

13 minute read

Best for Bass

Abu garcia i.k.e. signature series travel casting rod, best budget, shakespeare ugly stik gx2 travel spinning combo, best premium, megabass triza travel rod.

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Travel fishing rods are easy to pack for a trip, and the good ones fish like a one-piece rod. Over the past several decades, rods have gotten longer because more length typically equals better casts and more leverage on big fish. For example, the 5-foot 6-inch pistol grips that dominated bass fishing into the 1980s have been replaced almost entirely by rods that are 7 feet and up. Unfortunately, luggage costs and rules have also exploded at this same time, meaning that it’s not always feasible to take an oversized 7- or 8-foot rod tube on distant trips. That’s doubly true if you’ll be getting on a floatplane or your luggage size is otherwise restricted.

Travel rods aren’t solely for air travel, though. If you’re an urban angler getting on a subway, they may be your best choice. If you want something to keep in your car or backpack in case you pass by a tasty-looking fishery, they’re prime choices. In the past, the options were often limited. Either manufacturers took an existing blank and added rudimentary ferrules, or it was a bargain basement combo that required a staple remover to get out of the package and that couldn’t stand up to farm pond bluegills. Fortunately, many manufacturers have recognized the need for better travel tools, and they’ve heeded the call. 

I get to do a lot of traveling with fishing rods as a writer and host of exotic fishing trips. I’ve been to the Alaskan wilderness, through the Amazon jungle, and on every major bass lake in the U.S. and Mexico. Those destinations require a plane ride, and while I don’t always pack multi-piece rods, it’s given me the chance to test out many of the best. Here are my picks for the best travel fishing rods.

• Best for Bass: Abu Garcia I.K.E. Signature Series Travel Casting Rod
• Most Innovative: Daiwa Ardito-TR Travel Casting and Spinning Rod
• Best for Inshore: Falcon Traveler Coastal Spinning Rod
• Best Budget: Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Travel Spinning Combo
• Best Finesse: Wild Side Light Spinning Rod
• Best Premium Casting: Megabass Triza Travel Rod  
• Most Versatile :  Toadfish Travel Spinning Rod
• Best Bait Finesse :  KastKing Kestrel 3-Piece Rods
• Best Premium Spinning : Shimano Zodias 5-Piece Travel Spinning Rods

How I Tested the Best Travel Fishing Rods

I’ve taken these travel rods all over the globe and all over the country, fishing for species both exotic and mundane. More importantly, though, I’ll admit that I’ve abused them. They’ve been shoved in suitcases, walked through dense forests, and used for lures outside of their supposed range. That’s the nature of the travel game. Coming home from Mexico, officials forced me to check a carrying case that I’d carried on for the trip South of the Border, and my rods returned in one piece—or rather in their original configurations of multiple pieces. When possible, though, I like keeping them at my side, and I’m usually able to do so. It also enables me to bring a rod and reel or the occasions when I travel for a non-fishing purpose but might be able to sneak away to make a few casts.

Best Travel Fishing Rods: Reviews & Recommendations

Key Features

• Length: 7 feet
• Packed Length: 28 inches
• Three pieces
• Comes with both medium (1/4-3/4 ounce lures) and medium-heavy (3/8-1 ounce) tip sections
• Soft travel case included
• Versatility means you only need to carry one rod
• Comfortable E.V.A. handle
• Great value
• Included case isn’t crushproof; should not be checked on airlines

Abu Garcia, worked with Bassmaster Classic champion Mike “Ike” Iaconelli, to design the Ike Signature Series Travel Rod. Ike is known for his wins on the pro bass circuit, but he’s also known for his urban angling adventures. Traveling by bus, bike, plane, and train to those urban fishing spots were the inspiration for his travel rod. 

The best feature of the rod is the included interchangeable tip sections that provide different actions. They are a tremendous value, since the rod doesn’t sacrifice on components. They include 36-ton graphite blanks, stainless steel guides, and a premium Fuji reel seat. Ike carried this rod worldwide on his television fishing exploits for a wide range of species, but his heart remains with bass, and that’s where this rod excels, for everything from soft plastics to crankbaits to spinnerbaits . Anglers who expect to use finesse presentations can buy the spinning version.

• Length: 7 feet 
• Handle converts from spinning to baitcasting
• Three-piece rod, includes six total pieces 
• Lure Weights: ¼ to 1 ounce 
• Extreme versatility
• Handles wide range of lures
• Sensitive yet strong graphite construction
• Included case not crushproof; should not be checked on airlines

Daiwa has built a rod—and specifically, a rod handle—that will accommodate both spinning and baitcasting reels when configured appropriately. That means you don’t have to choose one or the other when you’re limited to one travel rod. What’s most impressive is that they’ve somehow developed a blank that doesn’t feel awkward in either role. It includes X45 graphite construction that prevents blank twisting and truly performs like a one-piece. I took this rod to Zambia for tigerfish, where it performed admirably with a baitcasting reel, and then used it at home to skip Senkos under docks with a spinning rod. It’s not truly a finesse spinning rod, but could handle light baits with plenty of backbone to extract hard-pulling bass from gnarly cover.

• Medium action
• Lure weight: ¼ to ½ ounce 
• Bargain priced
• Durable full cork handle
• High-quality components
• Some anglers may not like the moderate action

If you’re chasing redfish or speckled trout on the Gulf Coast, or bonefish and snook in the Everglades or Keys, you need a rod that will simultaneously make pinpoint presentations that also has the heft to muscle outsized, super-strong fish away from cover. This rod is light but mighty and fits the bill. The Coastal Traveler series also has a baitcasting model in the lineup. They’ll both do double-duty in freshwater, although Falcon also provides Lowrider series travel rods for that purpose. All of them include cork handles (full in the case of the Coastal, split-grip on the Lowriders), Fuji K-Frame tangle-free guides, and a blank through reel seat. All come with a crushproof, three-section Cordura-coated case with the rod’s specifications printed on the outside.

• Lengths: 5 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 6 inches 
• Comes with matching reel
• Three or four pieces
• Rod and reel packaged together for the price of one
• Four-bearing spinning reel
• Strong guides will stand up to braided line
• Cloth rod and reel travel bag cannot be checked

The Ugly Stik brand has been synonymous with strength and value for decades, and Shakespeare continues to refine the products while keeping them at rock bottom prices. These three spinning combos—one light action, two medium action—all come with a four-bearing reel and rods that combine graphite and fiberglass construction. While the cloth carrying case may not be crushproof, this combo will stand up to just about anything you can dish out. That makes it a great option for kids or beginners, but you’ll be surprised at the wide range of species it can handle across the globe without any fear of failure.

• Length: 6 feet 3 inches
• Packed Length: 22 inches
• Action: Light
• Five pieces
• Ultra compact 
• Innovative ferrules maintain one-piece feel
• High modulus graphite

Wild Side’s U.S. distributor Arundel Tackle claims that this rod is “made for the overhead bin, NOT baggage claim.” It comes with a rectangular carrying case that weighs a mere 2 ounces and will slide easily into your carry-on. More importantly, they’ve somehow taken a five-piece rod and eliminated any traditional multi-piece imprecision. That might be because they use refined spigot ferrules that do a solid job of maintaining a one-piece flow. This has become a go-to Ned Rig rod when I’m bass fishing at home, but it has so many other uses where it’ll excel. These include stream trout fishing, pan fishing, and light saltwater use. The high-quality cork and E.V.A. split handle are comfortable for all day fishing and match up with any lightweight spinning reel.

Best Premium: Megabass Triza Travel Rod  

• Lengths (casting): 6-feet, 6-inches; 6-feet, 8-inches; 6-feet, 9-inches; 7-feet; 7-feet, 2-inches   
• Available in five baitcasting and two spinning models
• Lure Weights: 1/32 ounce to 3 ounces
• Wide range of actions for a full range of techniques
• Built one at a time for attention to detail
• Gorgeous peacock wood reel seats and hand-drawn graphics

Megabass makes everything from the best swimbaits to some of the nicest production rods available. The Triza Travel Rod has typical Megabass quality in a rod that fits in a backpack. Megabass has a lot of experience making travel rods for their Japanese customers, who are often more constrained in terms of space and transportation, and therefore demand them. These premium travel rods are now widely available in America and cover just about every bass fishing technique under the sun—while at the same time being superior for some saltwater and multi-species use. They’re a gorgeous piece of art that would look great displayed, but they’re too solid to sit on the sidelines. Megabass claims they are constructed to their “Triangle” ideal—with a tip section that maximizes tension, a belly section that maximizes torque, and a butt section that maximizes torsional rigidity. These are workhorses that present like show horses.

Most Versatile:  Toadfish Travel Spinning Rod

• 7 feet 2 inches
• Medium/Medium heavy action
• Interchangeable mid and tip sections
• Incredible versatility
• Kigan tangle free guides
• Extremely durable
• Included case is strong but quite heavy

This rod comes with one handle section, two mid-sections, and two tip sections, allowing for five different configurations, making it the most versatile travel rod on the market. That uniqueness is also a huge bonus if you slam a section in a car door or otherwise break one – you lose a bit of that trademark versatility, but you’re not completely out of luck. What’s also nice is that it comes with extremely durable components, including soft-touch rubber handle inlays and a handle that will stand up to the most you can dish out, including saltwater exposure. It’s fairly sensitive for a five-piece rod, and the spigot ferrules hold well. The case may be heavy, but you can check it through on the airlines without worrying about damage.

Best Bait Finesse:  KastKing Kestrel 3-Piece Rods

• Light-fast action
• IM8 ultra-high modulus graphite blank
• Extremely reasonable price
• One of the few rods in its category
• Very sensitive IM8 high modulus graphite blank
• No case included

The biggest problem with many travel rods is that they’re too vanilla – understandably made to cover a wide range of conditions and species. That’s fine if you just want one for random use, but it doesn’t help anglers with specific needs. KastKing has entered the market with a lot of BFS options and wisely chose to build a three-piece rod in that category. It can handle lures as light as 1/10 ounce, yet, with a balanced baitcasting reel, still has the winch-like power that spinning cannot provide. The rod comes with quality components, including American Tackle Ti forged guides with aluminum oxide Duralight rings, so whether you’re chasing panfish, Alaskan trout, stream smallmouths, or light saltwater species, it’s meant to stand up to a beating. In Asia and Japan, manufacturers have historically made a wider range of multi-piece rods than they do in North America, so it’s a good sign that KastKing is willing to take a calculated risk on this specialty stick.

Best Premium: Shimano Zodias 5-Piece Travel Spinning Rods

• Medium-Light – Fast
• 1/8 – 7/16 ounce lures
• CI4+ Reel Seat maximizes ergonomic comfort
• Fuji guides hold up to the rigors of travel and different kinds of line
• At 5 pieces, incredibly transportable
• Rod case not included

Shimano and brand partner G.Loomis have dipped in and out of the travel rod market for years, producing some top-notch products. Shimano’s bargain-priced Convergence Series is a great value and quality product, but the Zodias will fill the needs of more demanding anglers. It looks and feels like an expensive JDM product, and despite the multiple ferrules functions like a one-piece rod. I liked the Carbon Monocoque grip, and felt that it enhanced sensitivity, even with light lines. It’s also available in a baitcasting rod if that’s your stylistic preference, or if you want to use heavier lines on bigger fish.

While most standard rods are one or possibly two pieces, most travel rods are three or more pieces. Alternatively, they may be telescoping. Either way, they “collapse” or “compress” or “break down” to lengths that will fit in a suitcase or in a small separate carrying case. That makes them easy to take on a plane or stuff under the seat of your vehicle for impromptu fishing adventures.

Many anglers believe that one-piece rods are superior in all instances and will do whatever they can to take them on long-distance fishing trips. Of course that is possible, and there are hard-sided carrying cases that extend up to nearly 10-feet long to transport them. One problem, however, is that the airlines are increasingly restrictive on checking such bags. Even when they allow it, they may be costly. Furthermore, rough baggage handling may result in destruction of or damage to your valuable gear.

Typically commercial airlines will not allow you to carry full-sized rods on airplanes, but they’ll often allow you to carry properly-cased and appropriately-sized travel rods on board. In fact, the T.S.A. guidelines explicitly state that fishing rods are permitted in carry-on and checked bags but note that “passengers should check with the airline to confirm that the fishing rod fits within size limitations for carry-on items.” Some foreign airports and foreign carriers will not allow the same, so be sure to check ahead of time and carry a crushproof case that can be checked if necessary.

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

What will you be fishing for.

The same travel rod that excels for panfish might be a liability chasing big saltwater fish in the surf. Today there are enough specialized options that you should be able to cover most extremes and many technical presentations. The trouble comes when you need to do double duty. That may require the purchase of a second rod, or perhaps even making compromises—using a single rod that is a jack of all trades but a master of none.

How compact must it be?

Fewer ferrules or connectors usually (but not always) means better performance. However, the ideal travel or “pack” rod will fit into a small case, which may or may not need to fit within your suitcase. Take careful measurements of your possible dimensions, adding a slight bit for the padding of the case and any internal rod sock that protects your tool.

How will I carry my travel rod?

The best possible scenario is to keep your rod or rods with you at all times, in a padded, crushproof case. That reduces the chances of loss and breakage. However, in the instance that you need to check it, make sure it fits in your other luggage or run the risk of paying a surcharge. Many of these rods come with tubes or cases. Some are better than others, so don’t hesitate to invest in an aftermarket product for peace of mind.

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Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts on the Best Travel Fishing Rods

As I’ve amassed an arsenal of travel rods over the past several years, I’ve seen a shift in my thinking. Previously, I reserved them exclusively for exotic travel to places like Zambia, Mexico, Brazil, and Alaska, and then relegated them to a garage shelf when I returned home. Increasingly, however, I’ve found myself using some of them in my day-to-day angling, in places where I could still take a 7- or 8-foot one-piece rod but now choose instead to take the multi-piece tool. 

Many of the more inexpensive multi-piece rods are still notably less fluid than their one-piece counterparts, but that’s not always the case. Furthermore, if you’re a one-piece snob, you may be surprised at how refined these options have become.

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The 5 Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Whether you're going on a dedicated trip, or just want to get some casts in during the family vacation, it pays to be prepared

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Travel fishing rods are made for anglers on the go. Wherever you end up, there are new waters to seek out, so the addition of a dedicated travel fishing rod to the arsenal makes sense for aspiring travel anglers. The problem for many years was the lack of quality rods to meet the carry-on restrictions for fishermen traveling on planes. Multi-piece rods were much less common and inferior to more conventional rods; they were also more likely to break.

Thankfully, advances in technology and design have changed the landscape of angling travel. Rod companies are now able to provide traveling anglers with quality options, and the best travel fishing rods fish like their one-piece counterparts. 

• Best Budget & Best Combo: Ugly Stik GX2 Travel Spinning Combo
• Best for Bass: Abu Garcia IKE Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod
• Best for Saltwater: G. Loomis Escape GLX Series
• Best Telescopic: KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Best Fly Rod: Orvis Clearwater

How We Picked the Best Travel Fishing Rods

My first travel-to-fish trip happened when I was seven. We ventured north to fish for northern pike and bass in the Thousand Islands area of the St. Lawrence River. Since that first trip, my wanderlust has persisted, spanning three continents, five countries, eleven states, and three Canadian provinces. I’ve carried rods to all of those places via airline, bush plane, panga, train, car, taxi, subway and hiking boots. In between those adventures, I’ve spent a lot of time talking with fishing industry professionals about travel fishing rods and other assorted gear. Cumulatively, this distilled experience proves highly useful in evaluating travel fishing tackle. While writing this review, I considered the following attributes:

• Fishing Performance—comparative to one-piece rods
• Packability
• Materials and Construction

Best Travel Fishing Rods: Reviews & Recommendations

• Length(s): 5 feet (light power), 6 feet and 6 feet 6 inches (Both medium power) 
• Numbers of sections: 5 foot rod is 3 pieces; others are 4 pieces
• Line Rating: Light: 4-10 pound; Medium: 6-15 pound
• Strong, durable and sensitive graphite and fiberglass construction
• More economical than buying individual components
• Strong and durable Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides
• Shakespeare four-bearing spinning reel, with double anodized aluminum spool
• Cloth rod and reel travel bag offers only cosmetic protection; not suitable for checked luggage.

According to Shakespeare lore, the Ugly Stik received its now world-familiar moniker when a product management executive took one look at the first prototype blanks and said they were the ugliest he’d ever seen. 

The most updated version is more aesthetically appealing, but it hasn’t lost its rugged durability or the signature clear tip segment. The Ugly Stik Travel Combo comes in three lengths and two power options (light and medium). Each rod is fitted with a solid Shakespeare four-bearing reel with oversized bail wire for added durability. And the entire combo is at a price point that won’t break the bank. 

These travel outfits make a solid choice for those trips focused on activities other than angling where you just might be able to fit in a little fishing anyway. They also make excellent entry-level outfits for kids and fishing rods for beginners . From personal experience, I’ll also say that these rods can handle those unexpected trophies that have a knack for biting when you’re just helping the kids catch a few bluegills.

• Length(s): 7 feet
• Numbers of Sections: Four pieces—butt section, midsection and two tip sections for increased versatility
• Tip Sections: medium light—for 1/8 to 5/8 ounce lures and medium for 1/4 to 3/4 ounce lures
• Line Rating: medium light: 6-12 pound; medium: 8-14 pound
• Two tip sections offers great versatility
• Fishes like a one-piece rod
• Excellent sensitivity 
• Doesn’t include a crush-proof case for checked luggage protection

Abu Garcia was smart to partner with Mike “Ike” Iaconelli in designing this rod. Twenty plus years as a bass tournament professional coupled with his additional experience as a city fishing enthusiast provided the ideal experiential foundation for crafting top notch travel fishing rods. 

The Ike Signature Series Travel Spinning Rod is an exceptional value and an incredibly versatile fishing tool. Quality components are a significant part of the winning formula. The rod blanks are constructed from 36-ton graphite and finished rods have stainless steel guides and a high quality reel seat. The use of a continuous graphite ferrule is key to allowing this rod to fish like a one-piece rod. If all of this isn’t enough, then add in the best feature—the versatility provided with interchangeable tips. This combination allows you to fish an extended range of lures and finesse baits. Anglers looking for a more powerful bass fishing tool should consider checking out the casting rod version .

• Length(s): 7 feet in two power options, medium-light and medium
• Numbers of Sections: three
• Line Rating: Medium-light: 6-12 pound; Medium: 10-17 pound
• Multi-taper design offers a superior blend of durability and performance
• Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides
• High quality cork grip
• Light weight
• Difficult to find stock, at the moment

Very rarely will I say that a rod has the potential to enable a competent angler to catch more fish. The G. Loomis Escape GLX rods are an exception to this rule. Hands down, these are some of the finest fishing rods made today.

G. Loomis has been making fishing rods focused on performance since 1982. I bought my first GLX rod in 1999 and I still fish it today; I think that says a lot about both the quality and durability of the GLX line of rods. Loomis’ rod building expertise has led to superior travel rods that compromise nothing in a multi-piece design. Their proprietary Multi-taper Design process strengthens potential break points while reducing material application elsewhere. The result is strength and sensitivity. The Nickel-Titanium RECOIL guides used on these rods are amazingly tough and the cork grip provides a comfortable feel over days, months and years of fishing.

These rods are amazingly lightweight, given their strength, durability and ability to subdue large saltwater fish. This lightness in hand translates to greater comfort over a long day of fishing. The last cast of the day feels as effortless as the first.

GLX Escape travel spinning rods are available in two models. The medium power model is what I consider the ideal saltwater rod, able to handle large inshore species such as permit and bull redfish. In freshwater, this rod will handle most of the salmonid species, bass and pike. The medium-light model is also a phenomenal light saltwater rod, ideal for small bonefish, puppy drum and schoolie stripers. This rod is also a great crossover rod, whether for large trout, shad or smallmouth bass.

• Length(s): Casting —7 models from 6 feet, 8 inches to 8 feet; Spinning—7 models from 6 feet, 6 inches to 8 feet
• Numbers of Sections: All models are telescopic
• Line Ratings: 6-25 pound, depending on the model
• Multiple models for diversity and flexibility
• Quality materials and construction
• Quick assembly
• Still not as good as quality multi-piece rods
• Segments can loosen after significant casting/fishing time

Though I’m not a telescopic rod fan, I see the usefulness of the concept, and the KastKing BlackHawk II is the best telescopic rod I’ve seen. These rods are particularly well suited for anglers who need the added convenience provided by a telescopic rod and aren’t logging serious hours of fishing associated with dedicated travel fishing trips. In other words, they’re ideal for when you’re on vacation and, suddenly, you have an hour or two to go fishing.

KastKing has provided an outstanding array of options, in both casting and spinning rod models. This selection is a great service for potential customers who need to find rods to fit a wide variety of angling scenarios, as well as the inevitable personal preferences.

The BlackHawk II rods are built using KastKing KastFlex 24-Ton Carbon Matrix blanks, with a solid glass tip. Snug-Fit ferrules, stainless steel line guides, graphite reel seats and comfortable EVA handles are used to create a nicely finished rod. 

For more information on telescopic rods, we have a rundown of the best telescopic options out there , as well. 

• Length:  9 feet
• Line Weight:  5
• Action:  Medium-Fast
• Pieces:  4
• Warranty:  25-Year
• A bit heavy

The Orvis Clearwater took home the best value award in our fly rod test last year and was a favorite among our group of editors and testers. For starters, the Clearwater is one of the more affordable fly rods on the market, and it can hold its own with the premium rods that often see a price tag north of a grand. This rod went head-to-head with all of the top-end models, and after a quick blind-casting test, most of our editors put the Clearwater ahead of our favorite high-end rods.

As for performance, the Clearwater throws tight loops and can reach almost as far as any other rod. It’s a bit cumbersome, and you might get tired after a full day on the water. Anglers can pick up a Clearwater rod in sizes ranging from 2-weight to 12-weight. So no matter what fish you enjoy chasing with a fly, there’s a Clearwater rod for you. And since this is a travel fishing rod story, it’s worth mentioning that the Clearwater is a four-piece rod and can be carried on any plane in a rod tube. —Ryan Chelius

Things to Consider Before Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

Travel fishing can be as exotic as a once-in-a-lifetime globetrotting adventure, or as simple as a subway trip to the city pond or lake. In both scenarios, a more compact, travel-friendly fishing outfit will make transit to the destination easier. Before buying a travel fishing rod, consider what species of fish you’re targeting, spatial limitations, mode of transport and the all important time versus money equation.

Target Species

What type or types of fish will you be chasing, and where will you be fishing? An ideal rod for panfish or trout will be outgunned and frustrating to use when targeting big stripers or redfish. Rods and their counterpart reels (meaning the reel you always use with that rod) may be great in freshwater but not up to the abuse they’ll endure in a marine environment. I like versatility in my gear but not to the point of compromising my overall enjoyment. To this end, I think it best to establish realistic expectations and fully understand what my travel rods can and cannot handle.

Spatial Limitations

The first leg of the journey is a commercial airline behemoth with spacious overhead compartments that will easily accommodate your travel rod case. But the final hop comes via a de Havilland Beaver where space is severely limited. Or, perhaps you’re hiking into the backcountry for a multi-day camping and fishing adventure. In each of these scenarios, spatial limitations are different, and in each case it’s important to identify how compact your travel rod (or rods) need to be. This is a question best asked and answered before you depart.

Mode of Transport

In a perfect world, my rods never leave my oversight when I travel to fish. But often that’s just not realistic. So, I opt to plan for the worst and hope for the best. I like when rods come with a crush-proof case. If they don’t, it’s best to invest in a specialized travel rod case that will accommodate the rod or rods you plan to take. When trips require multiple transfers, the added peace of mind alone merits the investment.

If carrying a rod or rods onto an airplane, I find out the airline’s maximum dimensions for carry-on items. If I have any doubt about carry-on options, I make sure the cased rod I’m traveling with will fit in my checked baggage.

Time versus Money 

This is an important equation that has additional variability based on a person’s disposable income and priorities. I once commented to a guiding client that I thought everyone should have one area of life where they indulge themselves. His response was, “Why just one?”

Realistically though, most anglers need to evaluate how often, and for how long, they’re likely to use a travel rod, and then factor that into their decision about which rod is best for them. An angler who might, or might not, use the rod once a year on a family vacation will want a different rod from the fisherman or woman who embarks upon one or more dedicated destination fishing trips each year.

Q: Can I carry-on a fishing pole?

According to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), fishing rods can be carried on, as long as they meet the airline’s criteria for carry-on items. However, it’s best to always work with the specific airline you’ll be traveling with to fine-tune your carry-on planning. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to also check with air carriers you’ll be flying with in the destination country or countries.  Adhere to their requirements, and your rod should remain in your hands from home to destination and back.

Q: How do you travel with a rod and reel?

I always want to travel with my rods in a hard, crush-proof case and my reels safely stowed in my carry-on fishing bag. Even if my travel rods are compact enough for airline carry-on, I still prefer to carry them in the protective hard case, as plans can sometimes change at the flight check-in. If I have to check the rods, at any point in the journey, I know they’ll be safe. Many people think about the flight process but don’t consider the auto travel on either end of the flight. In my experience, the transition points are when unprotected gear gets broken. Careful packing of your rods and reels extends the safety to these travel transition scenarios. In the “for what it’s worth” column, I’d rather arrive at a fishing destination without my clothes than my rods and reels. But happily this can be avoided by using a change of clothes as padding around your rods in the travel case. This way you arrive with your rods, reels and at least one spare outfit. 

Q: Can you carry-on a 4-piece fly rod?

Yes, most conventional 4-piece fly rods will meet airline criteria for carry-on luggage. I’ve traveled with 4-piece, ten foot fly rods to Chile, Mexico, England and remote north western Canada. I’ve never had any difficulty carrying-on my fly rods. That being said, it’s still always best to check with the airline in-question in advance. If you’re working with an experienced fishing travel service, they can also provide their experience traveling to your destination. For additional thoughts on this topic, check out our in-depth breakdown of the best fly rods .

Q: Can I fly with fishing lures?

According to the TSA, fishing lures are defined as “sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous.” They recommend sheathing or otherwise securing hooks; the lures should then be securely wrapped and packed in your checked baggage. Based on this information, any hooks, lures or flies in your carry-on could be confiscated. For anglers, the problem with this approach is the fear of arriving at a remote fishing destination with nothing to fish. To alleviate this concern, I pack a small selection of must-have flies or lures that I put in my carry-on bag—think of it as an emergency kit. I keep the selection small enough that I can accept the loss if it’s ever confiscated. The bulk of my fishing lures are packed safely in my checked bag and include duplicates of the essentials.

Q: What is the difference between a travel rod and a standard rod?

A travel fishing rod can break down into small sections or telescope into one small piece. A normal fishing rod is often one, two, or four pieces. This makes it a bit more difficult to travel with.

Q: Are travel rods worth it?

Having a fishing rod that can break down into small pieces is definitely worth it. You don’t necessarily need a “travel fishing rod,” but rather something that breaks down into three or four pieces so it’s easier to travel with.

Best Traveling Fishing Rods: Final Thoughts

Whether you’re embarking upon a bucket-list adventure fishing trip or hoping to get in a little fishing while traveling with the family, it all depends on your tackle getting to the destination unbroken and functional. That defines why travel rods have become so important for modern anglers, and the importance extends beyond airline travel. Try carrying a one-piece rod on a busy subway and you quickly realize the value of travel rods for close-to-home fishing. 

Though many travel rods still fall short of their one-piece counterparts’ performance, advances in technologies and economies of scale have closed this gap. In some cases, the best travel fishing rods are indistinguishable from one or two-piece rods. To decide which travel rod is right for you, evaluate your target species, consider spatial limitations, mode of transportation and time versus money. Then, just add water and enjoy the fishing.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

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Best Fishing Rod Tubes: Protect Your Best Fishing Rod

There’s something special about spring time for those of us who enjoy fishing (especially if, unlike Dad, you don’t live in Florida and can’t fish 24/7 365 days a year). The ice breaks, the temperature starts warming up, and it is time to clean out whatever part of the garage the old fishing gear is being stored in. First find your protective fishing rod tubes. You know, the ones that are holding your favorite fishing rods.

Dust them off, re-spool the reels, check the overall health of the rods to make sure everything is in working order, and then it’s time to start planning those fishing trips.

Whether it’s a visit to a recently stocked trout creek, hitting the lake for some bass or walleye, or whatever your preferred fish are in your area after the ice break, you know when it’s fishing season. That means breaking out those rods and reels, your favorite lures, and heading to your favorite fishing holes.

While the fishing rod is the obvious piece of equipment you’ll need, the last thing you want to find out during the opening of the season is that you favorite rod (or rods) are damaged because you didn’t take care to get a fishing rod tube to protect them. Read on to find our list of best fishing rod tubes currently available on the market!

Table of Contents

Protect Your Purchase!

Hey, I don’t have to tell you how much gets invested into even a small collection of good gear. The right rod and reel combination is pretty expensive in and of itself in some cases. And that’s even before adding premium fishing line, lures, boxes, and everything else. Then, oh yeah, depending where you live, a boat.

So unless you’re in one of the few areas where a good spearfishing gun is your fishing tool of choice, you will want to have one, if not several, good fishing roads that are perfectly set up for your preferred type of freshwater or saltwater fishing. The best way to transport them and keep them protected (and to avoid those oh-too-easy-to-get damaged tips) is to have the right protective tube.

Plano Fabric Rod Tube

The Plano fabric rod tube is one of the most popular choices for anglers looking for a solid but inexpensive option for protecting their fishing rods. Especially when transporting them from point A to point B or even packing them up for the long haul.

This rod tube’s main base is designed in a solid tube made from durable polypropylene that is specifically made and manufactured to be resistant from pressure and crushing. Each end is covered with a dense foam pad that helps make sure all your rod tips are protected.

The outside is lined in a solid fabric that is both tough as well as water resistant in nature. In addition to this the fabric is colored a nice green that adds an excellent aesthetic to an already extremely functional rod tube. The handle to carry this fabric rod tube easily is made from solid nylon, and with a three inch diameter there should be plenty of room for one or more rods, depending on the thickness of the base of the fishing rods you prefer to use.

We’ve dealt with broken tips before and while it’s not a big deal when you have a Dad who makes custom rods (seriously, he does, check out some of his work on the Facebook page for LMD Custom Rods ), at least when we’re by his work area. If you’re traveling to a lodge on a lake in Canada where the only way in is a one hour boat ride then a few broken rod tips become a very big deal. Protect them!

These particular protective rod tubes are 48 inches in length, with a 3 inch width and height. While there are a lot of great options out there, we are huge on this one from personal experience, and that is backed up by online ratings and reviews that are frankly superb.

Adamsbuilt Fly Tailwater Rod Case

While the Adamsbuilt rod case might be second on our list, there is a very good case for arguing that Plano is 1A and Adamsbuilt is 1B when it comes to the best and most effective overall cases for protecting your fishing rods. In fact, we’d be willing to listen to any angler who made the argument that there isn’t even that much separation between these two outstanding options.

The Fly Tailwater Rod Case is a touch over 30 inches long but has space for up to 30 inches of length (very important if you have particularly long rods). This is a single rod case that comes with a shoulder strap for convenient carrying and transport.

There are pockets integrated into the design for rod pieces in the interior, although no reel pouch. This is an impressive hard case that certainly holds up to initial tests and has the type of solid strength I want when protecting my fishing rods.

Each end has about 1.5 inches of foam to help make sure your rod doesn’t receive any damage from bumping the ends during transport. The inside diameter is 2.25 inches, and while this one isn’t as widely used as some of the others on this list, there is a reason that it has earned the #2/1B spot on this list. If you want solid protection for your fishing poles, you aren’t going to be disappointed with what this one brings to the table.

High quality, reasonably priced, and it gets the job done. What more could you ask for? A well deserved #2 spot!

Plano Airliner Telescoping Rod Case

This is a design that definitely catches the eye, that’s for sure. This telescoping rod case is adjustable, using a three tier design that combines with a remarkable 5 inch diameter to allow you to store not just one or two rods, but in most cases up to eight 7 foot rods. That is an impressive set up.

Depending on what you’re carrying at the time you can fully extend this particular Plano Airliner protective tube case to be a full 88 inches in length or if you are only transporting the protective tube itself at the moment then it breaks down to 47 inches to make it much easier to transport to and fro.

In other words, it is a remarkably well built and very versatile design that is going to find a large number of fans among anglers, especially among those of us who understand the importance of being prepared and carry multiple fishing rods with us wherever we go. The hard sided case should be more than enough to protect all of your favorite rods during bus or airline travel, and you are going to be very hard pressed to find any other design that comes even close to offering the same amount of space and thus the ability to transport the same number of rods.

Speaking of travel, there are some basic holes drilled into the design. You’ll need two basic locks to secure the tube, but that’s it: you won’t need anything special. Among the telescoping rod cases we’ve seen, this is the one we’ve got to give the highest grade. With hundreds of positive reviews from happy buyers, it’s not hard at all to see why this choice is an outstanding addition to the list.

Redington Single Tube Case

Featuring a classic but effective hard shell design, this basic protective tube for fishing rods might not be flashy, it might not have an eye catching design, but it is effective and gets the job done. These cases are designed to hold rods up to a length of about 27 inches on the inside once you mark off for the necessary foam padding on each side.

It’s important to note that while this case can be used for several different fishing rod designs, this Redington case in particular is designed to carry a 9 foot long 4-piece fly rod. The section of these rods are 2 feet and 3 inches, or 27 inches total.

While the overall length of the Redington protective fly rod case is 31 inches, that’s the total amount. Make sure to only use this with rods whose sections are 27 inches or less otherwise you will find yourself in a situation where they don’t fit or there’s bending, which risks damage and really defeats the purpose of having a protective carrying and transport case for your fishing rods.

An adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying is a nice benefit while reinforced plastic caps at each end means you can rely on this tube doing the job. As long as your fly rod fits perfectly, you’ll be extremely happy with the quality of this case and the job it does.

Allen Riprap Fishing Rod Case

Another great addition to this list, it’s obvious right from first glance that this is a very different type of carrying case from many of the others on the list. While most of the protective rod tubes on this list are designed only to protect the broken down fishing rods, they don’t have any space for the reel.

This case is designed specifically to fit spinning rods of up to seven feet or can also work with the right type of 4-piece spey/switch fishing rods all the way up to 13 feet. The key is making sure that the individual parts of the broken down rod aren’t too long for the case.

While the “side bag” that gives this case room for the reels is made of a tough nylon cloth, the tube section actually holding the rods themselves are made from a harder material that is built so it won’t be crushed or damaged.

This allows the full level of protection you need for the more thin and delicate sections of your fishing rod while also eliminating the inconvenience of having to find another way to transport the reels.

Featuring a classic olive color this fits right in with the other gear many other outdoor enthusiasts are likely to have or use and a padded handle means easy carrying. There is also a clear plastic ID window which is definitely convenient if you’re flying and need to quickly ID what is yours, or simply prove that it is.

This model is a bit more expensive than some of the others on the list but there’s no denying a certain convenience here that the other models will not be able to match. Because of that for some of us this is worth the extra little bit of payment.

Plano Adjustable Rod Case

Plano appears once again on the list and while this version of an adjustable protective rod case couldn’t quite make it as the highest rated we have, there’s no shame in coming in second to another model from your own company.

Bronze is pretty dang good if your brothers are gold and silver. This 3″ adjustable rod case comes in a stark white color that definitely sticks out and frankly kind of reminds me of the PVC pipe experiment my dad had to create his own protective case for his collection of fishing rods.

This case has received high marks for being able to hold rods up to 8.5 feet in length, and this is a reliable, simple, but effective design that gets the job done without too much fuss or confusion. The adjustable fishing rod case comes with a Plano brochure as well as a nameplate order form. Each end of this design has foam padding to protect rod tips and can also be locked for that extra bit of security.

While in general the materials used would be waterproof because there are small holes for adding locks or for adjusting the length, if submerged this will take on water but if your fishing rod tubes are all submerged in a lake chances are you’ve got much bigger problems going on at that point.  A limited lifetime warranty backs what is sure to be more top notch craftsmanship.

Flambeau Outdoors Bazuka Rod Case

Flambeau certainly wins the award for most attention grabbing name out of all the options on this list. Winning praise from many anglers for being an especially sturdy design, the Bazuka is a telescoping protective rod case that boasts of a 5 inch diameter (plenty of room for multiple fishing rods as a result), and can go from 63 inches all the way up to 87, offering plenty of space for even some of the largest fishing rods.

In ideal conditions the Flambeau case can hold up to a half dozen 6.5 inch rods and the case boasts of being virtually indestructible, a boast that is hard not to take seriously as they have foregone any attempt to make it look like it has a basic cloth or leather cover.

This is a strong solid tube meant to protect the contents and it truly shows. The versatility of this case makes it extremely popular and it has a hinged door to make it easy to load or unload.

While this is convenient, the one knock this product has had is that every great once in a while those very same hinges will be damaged, which kind of nullifies the benefit of having a nearly indestructibly constructed tube.

However, for most anglers this is never an issue and the purchase is well worth every penny, with many reviewers commenting that while a touch on the expensive side, they see the value as being very much worth it.

Entsport Foldable Fishing Rod Bag

The last one on the list definitely is more about transportation as opposed to focusing on protection. There are plenty of good options for the latter on this list already, and even a brief review of Amazon will reveal more. Although I feel pretty confident that even a long search there will give you a list of a lot of familiar names after you’ve read this article.

However, when it comes to simply wanting and easy and reliable way to transport, the Entsport foldable fishing rod bag is a favorite among those who have tried it.

This bag is 45 inches in length and can be used to easily group together and transport your group of protective rod tubes, cases, and other similar materials. If you have four or five rod tubes to carry around, that can quickly become a giant pain in the backside.

On the other hand, with a good fishing rod (or fishing rod case) bag that was designed just for that type of transportation, you are going to be in much better shape and not have nearly as many potential issues.

While this is a very durable bag, it’s also important to recognize it as what it is and NOT a substitute for an actual hard tube that will actually protect rod tips and the body of the fishing poles themselves.

Many Names for Fishing Rod Tubes

These outstanding pieces of protective fishing equipment come under many names. Whether you refer to them as a rod case, a rod tube, travel case, or something else completely, it’s important to remember that you are protecting what is likely one of your most expensive (and important) pieces of fishing gear so you don’t want to skimp!

This just scratches the surface, as well. There are many different fishing rod cases out there, and memories of my childhood include actual bought rod tubes from the sporting goods store but it also includes some DIY work with PVC pipe. The key is that at the end of the day you want to make sure what you have is going to work to protect your investment.

In Conclusion

You don’t want to drop some serious money on your new fishing rods only to end up breaking a tip or seeing them damaged in transport. While getting a top rated fishing rod tube or protective holder doesn’t have that sexy appeal as a brand new rod and reel combination, it’s an investment you want to make. Protecting your best gear is crucial to getting the most out of your time out in nature, and getting a couple of these for your best rods will help you travel in confidence and make sure you always have your best fishing days ahead of you.

Personally I’m not as big on the DIY projects as others and I’d probably go with a proven one but if you guys are looking for one way of creating your own protecting case for your favorite fishing rods, this video is one of the best I’ve seen:

Video DIY Creating Fishing Rod Case

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Best travel rod tube/case for multiple spey rods?

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Does anyone have a good recommendation for spey rod tubes/cases? I tried the sage, and the zipper broke. On my trip to Norway last month, the zipper of my Simms tube gave up. Seems I have no luck with what I tried so far.. Looking for an option that can carry multiple rods, maybe 6+.  

I've used the Sportube for many years now and it's never failed me. It's a bit heavy compared to a tube but it's bombproof. I line the insides with a roll of foam to stop the rods bouncing around and also give it added protection. With this I just put the rods in their rod bags inside, not the actual metal/cordura tubes.  

Just got mine (Series 3) - so much better than a rod tube! I can fit as many rods as I want, as well as reels, waders, etc. Sportube and a large bag should fit everything I need even for a longer trip.  

If you found an upholstery shop they probably could replace the zipper. Many small shop upholstery use high quality part.  

For just running around and storage I use a Bazooka Tube. I currently have for rods in one right now. I leave the socks on and just slide them in. For travelling I use a hard golf bag case. Holds all my gear and then some. I check it with the air lines.  

Which case do you use? I have used a soft side golf case for years and it’s time to replace it. Would you post a picture?  

FlySpoke Rod Cases - FlySpoke

Custom Fishing Rod Cases

JakeNB would love to know where you purchased the rifle case. Gary  

Check out the fishpond Dakota 42” carry on. You can hold tons of tackle and several long or short rods.  

There are two different elements to this, for me 1. I have a couple of travel spey rods, such as Meiser 1305S-5 and a 13668-6. As such these can fit in my standard 4pc 9' rod cases, of which I have 3 (two too many?). 2. Cases . * My original DB Dun Case, can hold a maximum of 4 SH rods and reels. Great for carry-on and traditionally used when we go bonefishing, but it can hold the Meiser 1305-S and a couple of SHs.. . * Abel Case, discontinued, well-built, sturdy, and absolutely great if you are flying, and you need to check in. Larger than the DB, and I get 6+ rods in there, including the spey rods. . * Sage large diameter rod tube. I strap this to a backpack and by default holds 4 rods, but I am sure I got get another rod in there. Yes, the zippers are small and cute, and do not look built rock solid, but I have never had a problems with it.  

correction, the fishpond carry on is 45". I thought that this would fix the issue for me as I travel throughout Alaska with my 13' + two handers and a few single handers. the case is amazing, I could fit 6 reels, and 8 4pc rods. there's enough pockets and dividers to cary anything except the kitchen fridge. the only problem I found was Alaska Airlines made me check it on all my flights vs let me carry it on, so I could perish while clutching my rods and reels should the plane go down,😆. dunno, it might be the ticket for you.  

The Fishpond Dakota cases are great, but I've only used the shorter one as a cary on with single hand rods. For spey rods, I'm still pretty darn sold on just using a 3" PVC plumbing tube and making my own end caps. I've found 3" works for 3 rods, and I've had no issues with carry on except for very small planes where I've had to gate check it. Cheap, easy, and BOMBPROOF. Not sure what size you would need for 6 rods, or if you'd have as easy of a time carrying it on a plane though? Maybe check some rod tubes in your checked luggage, then carry the rest on in a 3-4" PVC tube as your "personal item"?  

My last trip to AK I made three of these PVC cases and duct taped them all together and attached a rope shoulder sling. One end has the cleanout caps wrench tightened and I threw a wrench in my luggage to undo them at the destination.  

shoot im all about that. that a great idea. thanks  

twists said: Does anyone have a good recommendation for spey rod tubes/cases? I tried the sage, and the zipper broke. On my trip to Norway last month, the zipper of my Simms tube gave up. Seems I have no luck with what I tried so far.. Looking for an option that can carry multiple rods, maybe 6+. Click to expand...

In addition, Steve Abel is still making most of the items from the original luggage/bag line. His current site is a little skimpy on info, but it’s there.  

Interesting stuff. I was looking into this as well. as my switch and longer rods won,t fit into my fishpond Bazooka (9 foot 4 pieces fits at a maximum.). I was considering a Pelican case as these are almost indestructable. I could fit lots in there as I wouldn't NEED the rod tubes.... I must admit Jake'd padded riffle case loks interesting if you leave the rods in the tubes...  

Check the Pay it Forward thread Abel double case free for the cost of shipping.  

hey guys, stupid question here. But do any of you ever have issues taking these longer cases/ bags on flights? Do you just check them as extra baggage? Do they qualify as a fee sporting item (as for some airlines)? Kinda curious, especially within canada. Thanks!  

Outside of North America all rods and cases like these need to be checked in. Theoretically they can be included as part of your luggage if you read the airlines' websites regarding fishing rods, but when I tried to do this on a European flight it wasn't allowed and I was charged for an extra piece of luggage (£25 each way).  

On Alaska Airlines they allow carry-ons up to 45", the exact length of the larger Fishpond Dakota case. Nice peace-of-mind flying with rods, reels, lines, etc. in possession.  

I have had good luck with the Sage Ballistic. In the past I have checked it on and had no problems at all with the protection of the rods. This year I will be trying out the sort of newer product the Patagonia Black Hole roll up rod carrier and will be keeping a couple rods with me as carry on. Jury is out but it will save 50$ each way. I have two 13 3" Winstons loaded in it now and it's nice and small to carry and seems like it's really protected. We'll see. Good luck.  

The Snowbee XS travel bag meets the max standard size limit for several Canadian airlines.  

Hello Martin, I emulated you and grabbed this SKB golf case when I was in the US last month. Moved 13 rods from the US to Europe in one shot. Not even a scratch on the case. Stayed under the 23kg limit. Flawless. Hope fishing was well. All the best, Bill  

Am looking onto a rigid riffle case with removable foam inside. I'd be able to customise it and fit in multiple rods and reels of any length. And have seen these as checked baggage at airline counters many times. For me it's not about saving $ on transport... It's about making sure the rods get there, and in one piece. I don't fly for fishing that often; I can pay the additional baggage charge...  

Maybe you want to look at Pelican cases then. I have used them for other high value shipments.  

Indeed what I was thinking,Either that or a less expensive Pelican knock off. They are plenty solid as well.  

A chunk of ABS from your local hardware store! 1 glue on cap , 1 slip by fip coupling and a threaded plug  

Been doing that forever, ABS, or even PVC. Just got back from a trip, and the only thing that I would change is to add some bright color paint in case you need to gate check on a smaller plane. This is now the third time I have had to insist that baggage handlers look again in the depths of the cargo hold for my black plastic tube. Otherwise these are pretty ideal IMO  

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Redington Travel Rod Tube

Item#: F17350

Stay ready for angling when you're traveling with the Redington Travel Rod Tube. This tube lets you keep your favorite fly rod safe and secure when you are on t… Learn More

facet_type: Rod Case

facet_rod_capacity: One

Out of Stock

Product Details

Stay ready for angling when you're traveling with the Redington Travel Rod Tube. This tube lets you keep your favorite fly rod safe and secure when you are on the move. Plastic reinforced caps at the end of the case ensures protection and longevity. This tube features an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable transportation and a D-ring for a convenient hanging option. The Redington Travel Rod Tube allows you to carry up to two rods at one time.

• Equipped with YKK Zippers
• Plastic reinforced caps
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• D-ring for convenient hanging
• Qty. per Pack: 1

Prop 65 Warning

Top 10 Best Travel Fishing Rods 2024 Review (Buyer’s Guide)

• by Lance Wilkins
• October 2, 2020
• 18 minute read

One of the best things about fishing is the environments that it takes you to. The best fishing is found in the most pristine environments.

Whether it’s the mountains of Patagonia or the flats of Seychelles, traveling to fish has no downsides. 

Here we take a look at some of the best travel fishing rods around…

Okuma Citrix Travel Spinning Rod

• Light but durable
• Great price for the quality

Goture Xceed 4 Piece Travel Fishing Rod

• Great for saltwater and freshwater
• Lightweight

Editor’s Choice

Daiwa Ardito-TR Travel Spinning Rod

• Great balance of action and power
• Excellent for small-medium species

Not all of us will have caught the fishing travel bug yet, but once it gets you, it bites down hard.

To fish in these magical locations, you’re going to need a fishing travel rod and reel to take with you, and picking the right one is not so easy. Especially considering all the different types of fishing rods out there.

This article will save you valuable time and give you everything you need to make the right buy.

In this article...

The Best From The Review

Choosing a fishing rod is a big decision, here are our top three choices from the lineup, each one in its own category.

This is so you can have a variety to choose from depending on your needs.

An excellent travel pole that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at. It has the sensitivity for trout fishing and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal all-around travel pole for most species.

The all-round best travel fishing rod for me is the Okuma Citrix.

Designed with a lot of thought, the Citrix has the sensitivity for small species while having the power to handle some big saltwater fish too.

It’s light, durable, casts excellently, and has thoughtful features like braid-ready guide inserts.

A quality all-round travel rod with minimal flaws for such a low price.

I think the best travel fishing rod, if you’re on a budget, is the Goture Xceed.

It’s light, strong, sensitive, durable, and can handle anything from light freshwater to medium saltwater species.

The quality for the price is almost unbeatable, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee. It ticks every box.

Editor’s Choice

An awesome rod to cast with, and once your fishing hooks snag a big catch, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

The best travel fishing rod, in my opinion, is the Daiwa Ardito.

The Ardito takes things to another level compared to the rest.

Its performance outdoes the others in terms of casting distance, action, power, and sensitivity.

It’s a true all-rounder that’ll have you catching bass today and tarpon the next without any concerns.

Our Best Travel Fishing Rods

Here are all the top reels we reviewed.

Each one’s a winner in its own right and they all have their different strengths.

St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod

A 4 piece travel rod weighing just 4.9 oz. that delivers excellent performance in both casting and sensitivity.

St Croix has made their name by making affordable and high-quality fishing rods, and the St Croix Triumph Travel Series is their best travel fishing rod.

This is a 4 piece travel rod weighing just 4.9 oz. that delivers excellent performance in both casting and sensitivity.

The St Croix Triumph travel rod’s low weight means you’ll be able to keep casting all day without your arm feeling any tiredness.

You’ll happily make it to that golden hour at sunset when the fish usually turn on and start feeding heavily. 

This St Croix triumph travel rod is made from premium SCII graphite, giving you excellent performance, sensitivity, and durability at a great price.

You’ll cast this rod like a dream and even better if you go with the casting rod variant.

The St Croix Triumph feels like a one-piece and has the sensitivity to feel every bite with the backbone to make a decent hook set when fishing with it. 

It comes with aluminum oxide guides to reduce friction when casting and a Fuji DPS reel seat made of graphite with stainless steel hoods. 

The reel seat does tend to come loose and your reel can drop out if you’re not consistently checking it. 

Great with the Right Reel

When paired with the right spinning reel, the St Croix fishing rod and reel combo will be an excellent set-up for small to medium-sized fish but it might be a little light for larger species, and you may need a heavier rod if you plan on going after tarpon for example. 

The St Croix Triumph comes with a padded nylon case and the 4 piece design makes it easy to travel with, but the case is nylon and padded rather than being hard, so you may have to buy a rod tube.

• Model: TRS66MF4
• Power Rating: Medium
• Length: 6’6”
• Line: 6-12 lbs
• Lure Weight: ⅛-½ oz
• Action: Fast
• A great balance of action and power for great casting and sensitivity
• Made from quality graphite that is durable and will last
• Excellent for all small to medium-sized species
• Comes with a 5-year warranty
• Packs down small into 4 pieces for portability
• The reel seat can loosen and drop your reel at important moments
• The spinning rod is a little light for larger fish
• Comes without a hard tube and only a padded nylon case

CAPACI Travel Spinning Rod

Cast amazingly well and are incredibly sensitive to any bite that comes along thanks to the fast action.

Capaci are quite unknown in the fishing rod/reel market and have yet to make a name for themselves.

So far, they are doing pretty well at making what we fishermen need in terms of quality but affordable rods. 

Available Options

This travel fishing rod of theirs comes in both a casting rod or spinning model, so for anyone who uses a spinning reel or a baitcasting reel, there is a model for you. The model we have chosen below is their spinning travel rod. 

This fishing rod kit is made from 24-ton carbon, a top material, and it’s surprising considering the low price as carbon is usually more expensive.

These rods cast amazingly well and are incredibly sensitive to any bite that comes along thanks to the fast action.

They are also extremely light fishing rods, and the low weight is something that’ll help keep you fishing for hours on end. 

The fishing rod breaks down into 6 pieces, making it awesome to travel with as the rod length is just 45cm when put away.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a travel rod case and you’ll need to buy one to travel with it securely.

You might also find it tricky getting the eyes to line up when connecting all 6 pieces as there are no alignment marks on the rod to help you out.

An awesome rod to cast with, and once you hook up to a big fish, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

Daiwa are one of the most trusted spinning fishing rod and reel manufacturers the world over.

They have built a loyal following in the fishing industry and make some of the best travel fishing rods out there.

Their Ardito might be the best travel spinning rod they make and covers everything from trigger fishing to casting and spinning. 

The fishing rod below is part of their best travel fishing rod series and is a true all-rounder.

It has the gusto for some tarpon fishing in the Florida keys while being light enough to enjoy catching some bass with too, covering all the species and environments we need it to. 

It’s made from Daiwa’s exclusive HVF (High Volume Fiber) graphite, which keeps it light while ensuring maximum performance.

The blank on these travel spinning rods is specifically designed to reduce twist giving the rod extra strength and flexibility to handle some large creatures.

It’s an awesome, sturdy rod to cast with, and once you hook up to a big fish, you’ll immediately notice the power that comes with it.

The fishing rod comes in 3 pieces and a hard travel tube is also included. It’ll fit in the overhead or in your check-in luggage with your fishing accessories, and is easy to travel with. 

The only downside about this rod is the reel seat.

You need to continually tighten it while you’re fishing to make sure the fishing rod and reel combo stay together.

The last thing you want is your spinning reel by your feet while fishing or fighting a fish. 

• Model: ARDT763MHFS-TR
• Power Rating: Medium-heavy
• Length: 7’6”
• Line: 8-17 lbs
• Lure Weight: ¼-1 oz.
• Comes with a rod tube for safe travels
• Great blank construction, giving flexibility and reducing twist for extra strength
• Excellent action and responsiveness for a multi-piece rod, like a one-piece
• Great for saltwater species as well as freshwater, a true all-rounder
• Comes with an awesome 5-year warranty
• The reel seat needs constant tightening or you spinning reel may fall off

Fiblink Triomphante 3-Piece Spinning Rod

The combination of the length, power, action, and the 30-50lb fishing line rating stacks up to give you a rod that can handle boat, inshore, or surf fishing.

Fiblink are getting a name for themselves in the fishing rod and reel market.

If you need a travel rod specifically for fishing the ocean or for large freshwater species, then the Fiblink Triomphante has got your back.

Unlike other spinning rods, it’s a little too heavy for trout or bass fishing, but if it’s big cats or sailfish you’re after, this might be the best travel spinning rod to do it with.

The model below is ideal for surf fishing , boat fishing, and inshore fishing.

The combination of the length, power, action, and the 30-50lb fishing line rating stacks up to give you a rod that can handle almost any ocean species out there. 

The rod is made from solid carbon fiber and is tough as nails so you can put the pressure you need on those large species.

The reel seat and guides are all geared up for survival at sea too. Made from stainless steel and aluminum alloy, they are excellent at batting away corrosion. 

However, the guides’ inserts aren’t the best and tend to pop out from time to time

This is relatively easy to solve if they aren’t cracked; just a bit of super glue and re-inserting them should fix them up fine. 

In terms of travel, the Triomphante breaks down into 3 pieces and arrives at your door in a classy rod tube.

It’s a great packed size and perfect for any kind of transportation.

• Power Rating: Heavy
• Length: 8 ft
• Line: 30-50 lbs
• Lure Weight: 2-8 oz
• Quite a serious saltwater rod for handling large species
• Aluminum alloy & stainless steel reel seat for awesome corrosion resistance
• Strong carbon fiber construction while being light and sensitive
• Packs down into a nice rod tube for travelling
• Stainless steel guides to handle the saltwater
• A bit too heavy to enjoy light freshwater fishing
• Guide inserts on the rod can pop out easily

Goture Xceed

The Goture Xceed is a little bit too good to be true as a travel fishing rod.

I’m struggling to see how they have made such a quality all-round travel rod with minimal flaws for such a low price.

And then you find out the Xceed comes with a lifetime guarantee as well.

It baffles me, but I’m happy about it!

The model we have chosen below is the ideal set-up for fishing trout in the mountains one day and snook in Florida the next.

If you’re looking for the one rod to travel the world with, this might be it. But in case you’re looking for more trout rods, check out this guide .

Made from a 30-ton carbon blank, the rod is sensitive, strong, powerful, light, and casts like a dream.

You’ll be able to get your lure just where you want it to be, feel the bite, have the stiffness for the hook set, and the power to land a big fish.

We can’t ask for much more can we.

The Xceed is a 4 piece rod and comes delivered in its own protective tube.

It’s an ideal size to travel with, and you can happily fit it in your suitcase or in the overhead.

There is just one drawback to this rod, for a medium-heavy rod it does feel a little too bendy for some, and could do with a little stiffening up.

• Model: Xceed80MH-S
• Line: 10-20 lbs
• Lure Weight: ¼-1 oz
• Action: Medium-fast
• Comes with a lifetime guarantee at an awesome price
• Light for fatigue-less all-day casting on the water
• Strong but sensitive thanks to the carbon blank and action
• Great for use in saltwater and freshwater
• It has some serious lifting power
• It can feel a little bit bendy for some

JEKOSEN Travel Spinning Rod

Made from a solid carbon blank, making it both light and durable, while also being strong and sensitive. It has the power for some large inshore species and the delicacy for some smaller freshwater fish.

Jekosen are another budget manufacturer who seems to be knocking out some quality gear for a low price.

Their 4-piece travel pole has been compared to a one-piece, although that is probably pushing it, it’s still a good sign.

The Jekosen comes in both a spinning and casting rod model.

The model below is for spinning and is an ideal setup for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

It has the power for some large inshore species and the delicacy for some smaller freshwater fish. 

It’s made from a solid carbon blank, making it both light and durable, while also being strong and sensitive.

The guides use frictionless ceramic inserts to assist with how far you can cast and the pole has a lovely action. 

The tip section is a little delicate and you’ll need to treat it with care, in fact, it’s so delicate that many an angler has had the tip snap within the first 10 hours of use.

It’s hard to know if this is a user error, but it seems to have happened enough to be a genuine worry.

• Line: 12-25 lbs
• Lure Weight: 0.35-0.88 oz.
• Great all-round rod for salt and freshwater species
• Light & sensitive but has some backbone for a solid hook set
• Excellent value for such quality
• Comes with a great travel tube
• The tip is pretty thin and will need a delicate touch
• In some cases, the tips can break within hours of use

KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod

An all-round pole that will be great for both freshwater and saltwater species. It sits in that ideal middle ground that means it can do almost everything.

The one and only telescopic rod to make the cut is the KastKing Blackhawk II.

I tend to avoid telescopic rods like the plague as I was bitten as a child, but I thought this one was worth talking about. 

It somehow doesn’t do the one thing I hate about a telescopic rod, collapse while you’re fishing.

Thank you KastKing for making a telescopic rod that stays together, so you can focus on fishing instead of re-building your pole and untangling everything all the time. 

The Blackhawk II collapses down to a third of its length and comes in all sorts of models, from casting and spinning to inshore, so there is certainly a version for you.

The model I have chosen below is an all-round pole that will be great for both freshwater and saltwater species. It sits in that ideal middle ground that means it can do almost everything. 

The Blackhawk pole is made from a carbon blank and is therefore light, durable, and powerful.

It comes with an excellent seat for your reel that fully locks down, making sure your reel isn’t going anywhere.

Once set up, it casts well and you’ll feel every bite thanks to the medium-fast action, missing a fish will only be due to angler error not equipment failure. 

The telescopic rod does feel a little too bendy for a medium-heavy though and there are no markers to help you align the eyes.

And even though it doesn’t collapse, the eyes tend to twist around while you’re fishing, so you’ll have to constantly re-align them.

• Great quality for a telescopic pole and priced very reasonably
• Good spinning reel seat that locks down hard
• The sections don’t collapse, great for a telescopic pole
• Excellent performance in casting and sensitivity for a telescopic
• Made from quality carbon with a glass tip for durable sensitivity
• Feels a little light for a medium-heavy, more medium
• Can be a little tricky to get the eyes straight on set up
• Guides twist while fishing and need correcting

An excellent travel pole that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at. It has the sensitivity for trout and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal versatile fishing rod for most species.

The Okuma Citrix is a great travel fishing rod that can handle pretty much anything you throw it at.

It has the sensitivity for trout and the power for burley jacks, making it an ideal all-around travel pole for most species.

Made from an SCII graphite blank, the pole is durable and is balanced beautifully to give you great castability. The overall construction makes it quite light, and allows you to fish tirelessly all the way through to dusk. 

The guides on the Citrix use zirconium inserts that are designed for use with braid. This is the first pole in the review to have braid-ready guides, and since most of us use a braided fishing line these days, it gets extra points for that.

The zirconium reduces friction for both brain and mono, giving you the extra casting distance you’ll need in some situations. 

The tip of the Citrix has been labeled as a little delicate for some, but not for all.

There are stories of the Citrix handling large cobia and jacks without any issues, but then there are also reports of the tip snapping on a snag.

I would put it down to angler error but it’s worth noting.

• Model: CIT-S-724M
• Length: 7’2”
• Lure Weight: ¼ – ⅝ oz.
• Zirconium guide inserts are ideal for use with braid
• High-quality graphite makes it light but durable
• Ideal for small and medium-sized fish from bass to snook
• Packs down small for easy packing and travel
• Comes with a protective case
• Sensitive enough to feel the most subtle bites
• The tip can snap if you’re too bolshy with it

KastKing Crixus Travel Fishing Rods

The Crixus travel pole gives you amazing quality for a very reasonable price.

KastKing are in the game of making fishing affordable, and somehow come out with quality spinning travel rods that mean anyone can afford to fish if they want to.

The Crixus travel pole follows this trend and gives you amazing quality for a very reasonable price.

The Crixus is made from IM6 graphite and is very light.

If you fish long and hard you’ll know that every ounce counts when it comes to how tired your arm and wrist get.

The Crixus has got your back in this regard, and you will be able to keep casting and casting with minimal fatigue. 

The model chosen below is again in the middle ground. It’s sensitive enough for smaller species, yet strong enough to handle some medium size ones too.

It does feel a little bendy for a medium-heavy though and may struggle if you hook something quite big. 

The Crixus is beautifully balanced and a joy to cast with.

You’ll be able to hit your desired spot time and time again without any concerns, and even if the grip is wet, it stays in your hands. 

The grip is a little short in front of the seat; this does get annoying for some anglers who like to use the front grip for extra leverage, so bear that in mind.

It also comes in two pieces, so is a little long in the case for traveling with. It’ll be fine to go in the overhead but it might not fit in your suitcase.

• Model: KRDSPNCX-76MH2
• Line: 10-17 lbs
• Lure Weight: ⅜ – ¾ oz
• Light for easy all-day casting
• Comes in a bulletproof travel case
• Excellent grip never slips even when wet
• Sensitive with great casting action for hitting cover and feeling subtle bites
• Awesome quality for the price point
• Very short grip in front of the reel seat
• Feels a little light for a medium-heavy and may not manage larger fish
• Comes in two pieces and may not fit in your luggage

Okuma Nomad Spinning Travel Rod

This is one of the best travel rods and performs excellently when targeting larger species, but is a bit too blunt for light freshwater fishing.

The Okuma Fishing Tackle Nomad is designed for the ocean and is the perfect travel companion for bouncing from the Florida Keys to Costa Rica and beyond.

The Okuma Nomad travel rods are described as the 3-piece that feels like a one-piece.

This is one of the best spinning travel rods and performs excellently when targeting larger species, but is a bit too blunt for light freshwater fishing. 

The Okuma Nomad is made from a high-quality graphite blank that is wrapped in carbon for extra strength.

The Okuma Nomad is durable as hell as far as travel fishing rods go and has the power to handle some serious creatures, especially when the fishing rod and reel combo are matched correctly. 

The Nomad comes with two tips, a light tip, and a heavy tip, giving you almost two different rods. You can drop down to the light tip for small species and slip on the heavy tip when you’re going after those monsters. 

The Okuma Nomad uses stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts that are designed to reduce friction when fishing braid. This not only looks after your braid but also gives you some extra casting distance when spinning. 

It also comes with a protective carrying case that is waterproof, so no matter what happens, you know your rod will be living in a salt-free environment.

Unfortunately, there isn’t space for your fishing reel in the carrying case.

• Model: NT-S-703L-ML
• Power Rating: Medium-light
• Length: 7 ft
• Line: 10-30 lbs
• Comes with two tips, one light and one heavy
• Great for medium-sized saltwater fishing
• Sturdy and powerful rod for putting the heat on large fish
• Comes in a protective, waterproof carrying case
• Made from quality materials that can handle saltwater with ease
• Uses braid ready zirconium guides
• A little too heavy for any light fishing
• The case won’t fit both your fishing rod and reel combo inside

What Is A Travel Fishing Rod

Traveling fishing rods can be spinning rods or fly rods, any kind of rod for that matter. You can travel with a 7 weight setup but it might be considerably more tedious.

The only difference is that the rod is designed to make traveling with it more convenient. 

A travel fishing rod will either be a multiple piece rod or a telescopic fishing rod, reducing it’s length significantly when broken down.

The length reduction means it’ll be small enough to fit in your check-in luggage or maybe even your tackle box, making it a good fishing rod for travel. If you need rods specifically for backpacking, you might want to check out this best backpacking fly rods review .

It’ll come with a protective rod case too, which you’ll just slot into your suitcase for check-in or take as a carry-on along with your reel and fishing accessories..

It’s much more comfortable than showing up to the airport with a one-piece 12ft spinning rod and hoping it’ll survive the journey, although it is fun to look at the flight staff’s face when they wonder, “what the hell is that thing”! 

Travel Rod V’s Normal Rod – What’s The Difference? 

The only real difference between a travel rod and a standard rod is its length when packed away.

Instead of being a two-piece spinning rod and being 7ft long when packed away, it’ll be a 4 piece travel spinning rod and only be 3.5ft when packed away.

A travel spinning rod can also be telescopic , meaning the rod’s sections collapse into each other and when stored, can be as small as only a foot long. 

The short length means you can take the rod and reel combo on the plane or pack your rod and reel in your main luggage. 

Can Normal Rods Still Travel? 

Yes, of course, but they are quite inconvenient to travel with.

I remember trotting around the globe with my two-piece fishing rod and reel combo and having to put it in a PVC case to check it in as a separate piece of luggage every time I flew.

It got expensive checking in my fishing gear and tackle box and I would always be worried on the flight if my rod would make it safely; one day it didn’t. 

You don’t have to own a travel fishing kit but it will make your life a little less expensive and your fishing trips a little more stress-free. 

Are Fishing Rods Allowed On A Plane? 

This depends on the country you’re traveling in.

In the USA, yes they are, and so is a reel, as long as they fit in the overhead or under your seat, basically the standard carry-on rules.

Depends on Size

A standard travel spinning rod will fit in the overhead lockers no problem.

If the fishing pole is too long, you’ll have to check them in.

Depends on Destination

In other countries, the rules differ quite considerably from place to place.

I have fished all over the world and had many long conversations with flight staff as to why my best travel fishing rods weren’t dangerous.

In the end, I couldn’t be bothered with the hassle, so every time I fly, my best travel fishing rods and reel go in my cart or check-in bag with the rest of my fishing gear. 

A Multiple Piece Rod Or Telescopic Fishing Rod, Which Is Best? 

As we have discussed, there are two types of travel fishing rods to choose from; a multiple piece spinning travel rod or a telescopic fishing rod, so which is best? 

Personal Preference

In my opinion, a multiple piece travel spinning rod is always going to be better than a telescopic fishing rod.

A telescopic fishing rod is prone to issues and doesn’t usually have a multiple piece rod’s quality. 

They tend to collapse while you’re fishing and due to the inferior quality, little annoying things like the guides popping out or the mechanism breaking end up affecting your fishing.

This is especially annoying if you have traveled around the globe to fish an amazing spot. 

To Each Their Own

That being said, telescopic rods are useful as backpacking fishing tackle , as they pack down a bit smaller than multiple piece rods and will slot into your backpack or tackle box easier.

In the end, it’s a personal choice.

What Makes The Best Travel Fishing Rod? 

There are several factors that make up the best travel fishing rods and we’ll run through them below. If you only plan on owning one, the key is versatility, and here is why. 

What Are You Fishing For? 

If the world was your oyster and money no object, where would you take your fishing trip?

The list is probably growing in your head as you dream of all the species you’d love to experience and the beautiful places they live in.

In the end, it’s a long list and the last thing you want is your fishing gear to hold you back.

Versatility

With this in mind, you’re going to want a travel fishing rod that can handle your fishing style and a solid variety of species and environments.

This means it needs to be light enough to enjoy catching smaller fish and heavy enough to target some bigger ones and handle saltwater too.

What we are looking for is a travel fishing kit that sits in the middle of the spectrum and will survive in saltwater. 

Materials 

Like all other rods, travel rods are can come in carbon fiber, graphite, and fiberglass construction or.perhaps a combination of these.

Fiberglass construction in travel rods is rare and most of the travel fishing rods you’ll find will be made of graphite or carbon fiber. 

Carbon Fiber and Graphite

Both carbon fiber and graphite are excellent rod materials for a travel fishing rod.

They are light, strong, cast well, and give a great all-round performance when you’re fishing. High density carbon fiber is a little bit more expensive and responsive than graphite but it is a little hard to tell when you’re using them, so the difference is negligible. If you’re a pro you may notice and want to go for carbon over graphite. 

Rod Length 

The ideal length of a good travel fishing rod kit depends on what you’re looking to catch and where your fishing trip is.

But when it comes to looking for an all-rounder which you can fish for multiple species with, you’ll want to look for a fishing rod kit around 8ft long.

This will give your spinning travel rod enough gusto to cast a few lures far and handle larger fish while still being delicate enough to fish for any smaller species. 

Rod Action 

The action of a fishing rod describes where the pole will bend under pressure.

Slow action rods bend near the butt, medium action rods in the middle, and fast action near the tip. 

Ideal Action

The top travel fishing poles are fast action or medium-fast action rods.

They not only increase your casting distance and accuracy but are also much more sensitive. The extra sensitivity allows you to feel how your fishing lures are doing and notice every little bite that comes along, making your fishing more successful. 

Power 

The power rating of a fishing pole dictates how thick and robust the rod is, and therefore how stiff the rod is.

The rating scale goes from ultralight to extra-heavy, ultralight for very small fish and extra-heavy for monsters or casting heavy fishing lures. A spinnerbait rod will, quite obviously, work best with a spinnerbait lure as that particular rods power will be designed with those lures in mind.

Ideal Power

The best travel rod will have a medium or medium-heavy power rating.

This will give it the strength to catch larger fish while still letting you feel the pull of smaller species, giving you the all-around option we are looking for. 

The weight of any rod has an impact on your fishing. Heavy rods make you tired when you’re casting all day.

You can feel the ache in your arm and notice your patience and enthusiasm start to dwindle. As a rule, you want to choose the lightest rod possible for your specific needs. 

Consider Other Factors First

The weight of a travel fishing pole should be the last thing you look at.

It is best to try to tick all the boxes we have mentioned above first, and then use the weight to make your final decision.

This way, you get a rod that will get the job done, and the lightest version of it, saving your casting arm and maintaining both your patience and enthusiasm. 

The best travel fishing kit will come with a rod case that the rod slots neatly into and protects it on its journey to new adventurous fishing grounds.

Going on fishing adventures without a rod case is suicide for your travel fishing rod, as it will break unless you’re cuddling on the plane.

In case you have plans to bring kids along with you on your fishing travels. These rods for kids are great to start learning the basics with.

TIP If the rod you choose doesn’t come with a rod tube, not to worry, you can buy a case that will fit to give you peace of mind while you’re traveling with it.

Let’s have a quick recap of the top three picks…

Best All-Rounder

If you’re looking for a great all-round travel pole that you can rely on and doesn’t break the bank, then the Okuma Citrix is the way to go.

Strong, durable, sensitive with the capacity to target everything from small freshwater species to punchy inshore ones too, it’s one of the best travel spinning rods to take on your fishing trip around the world.

If good value is your game and you’re on a budget, the Goture Exceed is the best travel spinning rod for you. Incredibly affordable while being high-quality, it truly is a bargain. It’ll go far if you practice proper fishing rod maintenance .

The Exceed does all the basics well and can handle both saltwater and freshwater fishing, making the world your oyster.

If it was me, I’d buy the Daiwa Ardito spinning fishing rod.

The Ardito is the best travel performer out of all the rods in the review and for this reason is one of the most expensive travel rods.

The balance of power and sensitivity with the Ardito is second to none, along with its awesome casting action and versatility, it’s hard to go wrong with this and if you pair it with the right gear, you’ll have a great rod and reel combo.

Thanks for reading my review and I hope you like it.

Please share this review to your fishing buddies who might find this helpful.

And don’t forget to read my other articles. There are many to choose from, like the “ Best Pen Fishing Rods “, “ Best Flipping Poles “, or “Bass Fishing Tips”. Feel free to check them out.

Lance Wilkins

Editor @ CallOutdoors. Outdoor gear-head and adventure addict. I fish, camp and enjoy to writing about my adventures.

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The Best Travel Rods Reviewed: Real Performance for Serious Fishermen

Anglers who travel a lot and want to get some fishing in or who need to pack rods in carry-on luggage know that real fishing tackle that meets their needs is in short supply.

Yes, you can opt for some of the products that promise performance - Plussino comes to mind - and you’ll see these rods recommended by sites where the writers probably don’t fish themselves. 

But if you want a real rod that can perform, casting and fighting like the rods you left at home, you’ll need to look carefully.

We’re here to help, and we’ve put together a list of some our favorites, as well as buying guide to get you on the right track.

Quick glance at the best travel fishing rods:

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

• Excellent, sensitive blank
• Good guides
• Excellent handles
• Fishes like a premium rod should

Tackle Direct Bass Pro

Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod

Goture Travel Fishing Rod

• Great price for what you get
• Good, sensitive blanks
• Nice handles
• Fishes well

Smuggler 7 Travel Fishing Rod

• Very compact
• Good, sensitive blank
• Interchangeable fiberglass tips

KastKing Blackhawk II

Table of Contents (clickable)

• 1.1 St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod - Best Light/Medium-Light Power Travel Rod
• 1.2 Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod - Best Medium Power Travel Rod
• 1.3 Smuggler 7 Travel Fishing Rod
• 1.4 KastKing Blackhawk II
• 1.5 Goture Travel Fishing Rod - Best Budget Travel Rod
• 2.1 Avoid the toys
• 2.2 Modular probably beats telescopic
• 2.5 Handles
• 3 Final Thoughts

Related: 

• Best Telescopic Fishing Rod
• Best Travel Fly Rod

Best Travel Fishing Rods Reviewed

St. croix triumph travel spinning rod - best light/medium-light power travel rod.

Length: 6’ or 6’ 6” Power/action: light or medium-light/fast Line and lure weight: 6’ (4-8 lbs. 1/16 - 5/16 oz.); 6’ 6” (4-10 lbs. 1/8 - 1/2 oz.) Material: carbon fiber Handle: continuous cork Guides: Sea Guide Atlas Performance SS304 stainless steel guides Pieces: 4

Most anglers already know that St. Croix is a premium rod manufacturer, but you may be new to the sport and have no idea - and there’s nothing wrong with that!

For serious anglers looking for a “real” travel rod that can perform with the best of them, the Triumph is very hard to beat.

Available in two lengths, 6 feet or 6 feet, 6 inches, the shorter rod is light powered while the longer rod is medium-light. Both offer a fast action.

St. Croix has chosen a carbon fiber blank for these rods, and that means fantastic sensitivity. For panfish, trout, perch, flounder, specks, and the like, these rods will perform masterfully, allowing you to feel every bump, nudge, and nibble.

And when the fight does start, you’ll find the backbone of these blanks quickly, about 25% from the tip. And don’t be shy about that medium-light rod: it’s a real beast if you’re working with a good reel and a properly set drag, and you can fight any smallmouth in the world with it, as well as most largemouth.

Both rods wear premium continuous cork handles, though the shorter rod has a shorter handle.

The stainless guides that St. Croix chooses are excellent performers in the real world, especially if you skip braid, which can be abrasive to any guides.

Overall, this four-piece travel rod fishes like a premium two-piece, and that’s saying something.

Fenwick HMG Travel Spinning Rod - Best Medium Power Travel Rod

Length: 7’ Power/action: medium-light or medium/fast Line and lure weight: medium-light (8-17 lbs. 1/4 - 3/4 oz.); medium (10-20 lbs. 3/8 - 1 oz.) Material: graphite Handle: continuous cork Guides: stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts Pieces: 3

Fenwick is another brand that’s built a long-term, dedicated following by producing premium rods, and their HMG travel rod is no exception.

Where the St. Croix dominates on smaller fish, the Fenwick’s heavier power medium rod would be my choice for travel when I’m looking for species like snook, reds, blues, walleye, bass, and anything else that might test a medium-light rod to its limits.

That’s not to knock the medium-light Fenwick but rather to applaud the medium rod.

Capable with mono lines as heavy as 20 pounds, and more than able to launch a 1-ounce lure like a rocket, this is another rarity in travel rods in that it fishes like a premium rod rather than a toy.

Expect a beautiful, continuous cork handle and excellent stainless guides with zirconium inserts.

In a hard fight, you’ll appreciate those well-made guides, and you’ll find the blank’s backbone quickly, just as on the St. Croix. Sensitivity is excellent, too, making this a superb choice for the angler who travels and wants a heavier rod.

Amazon  

Length: 7’ 8” and 8’ 6” Power/action: ??? Line and lure weight: 5-20 g. or 15-40 g. Material: graphite with a fiberglass tip Handle: split EVA fam Guides: stainless steel with silicone inserts Pieces: 7

Smuggler is a British company that’s put together a very portable seven-piece rod. Innovative in many ways, if space is truly at a premium, this is a rod you’ll want to look at.

Offered in two lengths, Smuggler is shy about stating the action and power you can expect, in part because British expectations and terminology differ on this point. But given that the larger rod can cast a 40 gram, or 1.4-ounce lure, I’d guess that it’s in the medium to medium-heavy range, with a fast action given the graphite blank.

The shorter rod can cast a 20 gram, or .7-ounce lure, and I’d make that about medium-light.

In either case, graphite is very sensitive material for a blank, and these rods should allow you to feel even the lightest strikes.

In terms of innovation, they come with interchangeable fiberglass tips that alter the feel as well as the action of the rods, allowing you a bit of customization.

Expect a split EVA foam grip and stainless guides with silicone inserts.

One thing that concerns me is that customers report quality control issues, especially with guide finishing. If you do pick the smuggler, check each guide carefully for polish and finish, and definitely contact the manufacturer if you get a lemon.

• Guide finish quality can be iffy

Length: see chart Power/action: see chart Line and lure weight: see chart Material: Toray 24-Ton Carbon Matrix blank with a fiberglass tip Handle: split EVA foam Guides: ??? Pieces: telescoping

Telescoping travel rods can be a nightmare, and most are made as gimmick offerings for new anglers who don’t know better. That needn’t be the case, and KastKing delivers a real rod that’s capable of actual fishing.

Now, to be fair to its premium competitors, you’re not going to get the sensitivity, backbone, fighting power, or durability of the St. Croix or Fenwick. That’s a simple fact, and I mean no disrespect to KastKing.

By design, a telescoping rod just can’t compete with a segmented rod.

But the carbon fiber blank on the KastKing is sensitive, and guide quality seems to be OK. I personally wouldn’t put much faith in the rods of medium power and above, as the joint construction on a telescoping blank is going to be abused by a hard fight with a big fish. 

Maybe it’ll take it; maybe it won’t - but I wouldn’t bet my fishing trip on it. The segments tend to loosen with casting - but don’t collapse. That’s not confidence-inspiring, because I’m sure that places greater stress on the joints, and with a heavy power rod and big, mean fish on the other end, I wouldn’t count on the rod to survive.

Instead, I’d stick to the lighter end of the powers - medium light and medium - and try not to push this rod too hard.

If that sounds like a serious reservation, that’s because it is. 

Now keep in mind that the Blackhawk II is about 1/3rd the price of the St. Croix and Fenwick, and if you’re just looking for an easy rod to pack and want to hit the water for a few hours, there’s nothing wrong with the product.

But as serious competition for the premium rods on our list, the Blackhawk II isn’t going to make the grade.

• The Segments loosen after casting, and I wouldn’t trust this rod in medium-heavy or heavy actions with big fish and hard fights

Goture Travel Fishing Rod - Best Budget Travel Rod

Length: see chart Power/action: see chart Line and lure weight: see chart Material: carbon fiber Handle: split EVA foam Guides: stainless with ceramic inserts Pieces: 4

For anglers on a budget too tight for the St. Croix or Fenwick, Goture offers a nice travel rod at a reasonable price. Available in powers ranging from ultralight to medium-heavy, and actions that vary from medium, to medium-fast, to fast, these are dependable travel rods that won’t break the bank.

The blank on every rod in this lineup is made from carbon fiber, promising great sensitivity and plenty of backbone. Powers and actions are matched well, and there are some great surprises in this series, like a light rod with a medium action that would be just perfect for small crankbaits.

Expect well-made, split EVA foam handles that provide plenty of territory, even for big hands.

The guides are stainless steel with ceramic inserts and clearly designed more for fresh-water fishing than the salt. They’re small - I’d say a bit undersized for salt - but perfect for enhancing sensitivity for species like bass when using a worm.

One word of caution: the ferrules are meant for a .6” gap, meaning that they should not be tightened down till they touch.

The carbon fiber blanks prove plenty sensitive and strong, and these are really good rods for the money. Anglers on a tighter budget should definitely give these rods a close look.

• Not going to compete head-to-head with premium alternatives like St. Croix and Fenwick

What to Look for in a Good Travel Rod

Avoid the toys.

When angling sites recommend products, there’s a real difference between content farms and those where the researchers and writers are fishermen themselves.

That’s a fact.

And just because a product is popular on Amazon doesn’t make it good.

Many of the telescoping travel rods with awesome reviews are disappointing if you’re more than a once-a-year angler, and you can chalk up the positive responses to people who really don’t fish a lot not using these rods much or knowing what they’re missing out on.

That’s not to insult anyone, and if you just need a rod for a few days a year and space is tight, go ahead: you probably won’t be disappointed.

But if you’re a serious angler and you try one of these out, I promise you, you’ll burn with frustration.

That’s why our list is populated with real rods that are high on performance, especially the St. Croix, Fenwick, and Goture.

Modular probably beats telescopic

On that front, modular rods are almost always better than telescoping designs. 

Being more mechanically simple, there’s much less to go wrong, and as ferrule technology has improved since the 80s, you’re not sacrificing sensitivity much at all by increasing that number to three, four, or even five.

And to be painfully honest, companies like St. Croix and Fenwick have hard-earned reputations that they’re not going to sacrifice by offering underperforming designs.

What this all adds up to in the real world is that modular is usually the way to go.

There are a variety of blank materials on the market, ranging from fiberglass and fiberglass composites to graphite to carbon fiber.

Let’s look at the strengths and weaknesses of each choice:

• Fiberglass and fiberglass composites - are well known for being heavy but very, very durable. They tend to be very flexible as well, but they can be made stiffer through the introduction of carbon fiber or graphite.
• Carbon fiber - is a common blank material, combining light weight with awesome stiffness and sensitivity. Not as durable to hard knocks as fiberglass, it’s still prized for its strength to weight ratio and its reliable backbone for hard fights.
• Graphite - is the lightest and stiffest of the rod materials out there, but it’s also the most fragile. A hard knock against a piling or rail can result in micro-fractures, so blanks made from graphite need some care in handling. But they’re awesomely sensitive and very strong, offering a fantastic performance.

Good guides are essential.

When you have a fish on your line, the stress on the line and rod is transferred through the guides, meaning that they need to be strong. But they also need to be as smooth as they can be, protecting your line from the heat caused by friction. 

If your line gets hot, it will fail!

An easy test of guide quality is to take a length of the line, pass it through the guide, and saw like mad against the guide. Excellent guides will leave your line intact.

Whether you prefer the warm feel of cork or the durability of EVA foam, look for handles that are long enough to give you a two-handed grip and really put some muscle into a fight.

That’s a tall order on a travel rod, but the best ones deliver just that.

Final Thoughts

Good travel rods are in short supply, and if you’re a serious angler, it can be a frustratingly difficult task to find one that fishes well.

What we can promise is that if you pick one of the rods we recommend, you’ll be more than happy with your purchase. The St. Croix , Fenwick , and Goture rods fall at different price points and quality levels, and the premium rods are definitely better choices if you can afford them, but all three of these products are real tackle designed for real-world fishermen.

We can’t tell you which one is best for you - only you can do that - but we can guarantee that these three will put a smile on your face.

As always, we’d love to hear from you, so please leave a comment below.

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• Product Buying Guides and Reviews
• Fishing Tips

Protect Your Prized Catchers with Quality Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes

Best fishing rod case & bag 2024.

• Reading time: 45 mins read
• Post category: Fishing Accessories
• Post published: February 8, 2020
• Post last modified: January 20, 2024
• Post author: Sergio Smirnoff
• Post comments: 6 Comments

Sergio Smirnoff

Table of Contents

Safeguard Your Rods: Discover the Best Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes

✅But what truly sets these cases, bags, and tubes apart is their meticulous design. They don’t just protect— they do it with style and convenience . Crafted with lightweight, durable materials, these accessories provide easy transport without adding unnecessary bulk to your gear. Some cases come with shoulder straps for comfortable carrying, others feature multiple compartments for extra tackle.

Preserving the Life of Your Rod: An Insider’s Guide to Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes

When it comes to fishing, there’s a lot more to consider than just the bait and rod. One often-overlooked aspect that can make or break your fishing experience is how you store and transport your equipment. Yes, we’re talking about fishing rod cases, bags, and tubes. These unsung heroes of your fishing gear not only make it easy for you to carry your equipment but also protect your precious rods from damage.

The Unsung Hero of Fishing Gear: Cases, Bags & Tubes 🎣

They are the guardians that keep your gear safe from dust, water, sunlight, and other environmental factors that can degrade your rods. Moreover, they help prevent scratches, bends, or other physical damage that can occur during transport. Simply put, if you want your fishing rods to last, you need a good case, bag, or tube to store them in.

My Personal Lesson: A Rod Tragedy That Could’ve Been Avoided 🚫

Let me share a personal story that highlights the importance of proper rod storage. As an avid angler and a professional in the field, I’ve always invested in top-quality fishing gear. But like many, I overlooked the value of good rod cases and tubes.

I once owned a premium-grade graphite fishing rod that was my go-to for most fishing trips. One day, I was headed out for a weekend fishing expedition and decided to stow my beloved rod in the back of my truck, without any protective case. Disaster struck when a heavy piece of camping gear slid and fell on the rod during the journey, snapping it clean in half. The heartbreak was immeasurable. 💔

Not only was the rod expensive, but it also held sentimental value, being my first major purchase as a professional angler. If I had invested in a decent rod case or tube, my prized possession would still be with me today. From that day forward, I understood the invaluable role of fishing rod cases, bags, and tubes.

🔶This experience taught me a tough lesson about the value of protecting your gear. I share this story not to discourage you, but to underscore the importance of proper rod care and maintenance. You may not realize the worth of a good rod case until you’ve suffered a loss like I did. Don’t wait for that moment—invest in quality rod storage now, and give your fishing gear the protection it deserves.

Best Fishing Rod Travel Tubes & Cases: Compared & Tested & Reviewed

Fishing is far more than the adrenaline rush of a catch. It’s the tranquility of nature, the precision of your equipment, and the entire journey that revolves around it. In the grand scheme of this adventure, careful preparation and the right gear are key. Among these, one often underappreciated piece of equipment is how we store and transport our precious fishing rods. Let’s embark on an exploration of Fishing Rod Cases, Bags, and Tubes.

As an ardent lover of fishing, I’m no stranger to investing generously in top-notch fishing gear. After all, it’s my beloved pastime, my passion. However, like many others, I often overlooked the importance of a quality fishing rod case, considering it an optional accessory rather than a necessity. That perception changed the day I damaged my favorite rod while merely transporting it in my car. It was a wake-up call to the significance of a reliable defense mechanism for my fishing equipment.

Since that day, my fishing rod has found a steadfast companion in its protective case. And guess what? Not only has my rod stayed intact for a significantly longer time, but I’ve also found peace of mind knowing it’s secure. Let’s face it – a fishing rod is delicate and demands protection, particularly during transportation, whether by car, plane, or on outdoor excursions. A sturdy case is the unsung hero in these situations.

If you’re looking to invest in a robust, practical case that ensures your rod’s longevity, you’ve landed in the right place. Based on personal experiences and suggestions from fellow fishing enthusiasts, I’ve curated a selection of exceptional rod cases and tubes. So, dive in and discover the protection your fishing rod deserves..

1# Plano Airliner Telescoping Rod Case – Best Fishing Rod Bag For Travel

If you are a fisherman who likes to fish in different places or especially in different countries, then this case will really be great protection for your fishing rod. The manufacturer developed a hard case so that you can safely transport your fishing rod during air travel, transportation in the car.

I have a friend who flies very often and his fishing rod broke during an airport inspection. But after he started using this case, there were no more such cases. The case is very durable and can withstand any tests. Therefore, you can safely transport the fishing rod in it as you like.

The case is versatile as it can expand up to 88 pounds in length. But when you don’t use it, you can fold it and put it where it will not interfere with you. It folds up to 47 inches. The case has a three-tier design and an almost five-inch diameter. This allows you to store eight rods. And a great bonus is its price. For this quality, it has a good price. You will understand this after using it.

Very durable

Can be folded for easy storage

The case has a high adjustment. You will be able to comply with any rules of the airport

There is no end cap. This isn’t convenient because you can use it to add or remove rods without problems

2# Etna Fishing Rod Case Organizer – Best Roomy Case For Fishing Rods

This model is used by my friend whose whole family loves fishing. It was always a problem for him to carry all the fishing equipment in the car. Since he has a wife and two sons he has to take 4 fishing rods and other equipment with him at a time. And this bag was a godsend for him. It not only protects fishing rods well from damage but also holds many other things.

This is very convenient. You can carry up to 5 rods on the outside of the bag. Also in the inner compartment, you can store fishing rods, reels, and other things that you will need during fishing. There is a pocket on the side where you can also put some things. This is especially convenient if you take your children fishing with you.

Easy to transport. Just put the case with all the equipment in the trunk and be sure that nothing will happen to them during the trip. The case has a great design and color. I like it when the case doesn’t have a bright color. It isn’t conspicuous and doesn’t distract you from the process. Velcro and fasteners are strong and my friend has never complained that he has any problems with this. The quality justifies the price.

It holds more than two rods

Not a bright design

When the case is empty it doesn’t stand straight

3# Booms Fishing PB1 Fishing Pole Bag – Best Quality Bag

I have no doubt about the quality of this fishing rod case. I had an accident when I put my fishing rod in this case and went on fishing by bike. Due to my carelessness, it turned out that the case fell to the ground relatively at high speed. At that moment I thought my fishing rod was over.

How surprised I was when I saw that it was intact and didn’t even get more than one scratch. Now I am confident in the quality of this case and I recommend it to everyone. The case itself is designed to store the fishing rod along with the reel. It is made in this form so you don’t need to separate the reel and fishing rod. The case has a standard size, 4.6 meters in length. And I also want to note such a thing as an adjustable shoulder strap.

This is very convenient as you can hang the case on your shoulder and free your hands. I usually take a lot of things with me, so it’s important that I can carry them in my hands. There is a waterproof inner lining. The case is made of nylon fabric so it is resistant to abrasion. In general, this case is convenient and most importantly practical and high-quality.

You can store your reel and rod together

It has an adjustable shoulder strap

Quality material

The zippier can break quickly

4# Flambeau Outdoors 4455BB Rod Bunk Box – Best Case for All Fishing Gear

You will love this fishing rod case! It has a very strong construction, something even resembles a toolbox. Your fishing rod will be completely safe. It won’t get bumps or scratches. And the coolest thing is that you can put your reel, your tackle boxes, and lures in addition to the fishing rod.

I like the fact that the foam that holds the reel isn’t glued. Therefore, it can be moved and put into gear. But the inside of the lid is lined with foam. And this protects the fishing rod from both sides. The latches are very well made and durable. So you don’t need to worry about them opening during a car or air flight. And it has one plus for air travel.  If you need to close it for additional baggage check-in, there are 2 places where you can hang additional locks. This is the perfect case for any occasion!

Can accommodate all fishing equipment

There are two places for additional locks

There is a handle for easy carrying

It may seem big

5# Allen Cottonwood Fishing Rod – Best Spacious Bag For Fishing Pole

This case differs in its capacity. It is suitable for 4 rods. Also inside there are 8 compartments that are divided. In them, you can store the reels or other equipment. There are also transparent pockets in which you can also put everything you need. In them, all your equipment will be well protected.

Do you think that’s all? But that’s not all. The manufacturer has provided additional storage space on the outside of your bag. If you are the kind of person who always takes a lot of things on a fishing trip, then this bag was definitely created for you. Easy to carry thanks to the soft handle. Also, the bag itself weighs only 5 pounds.

You can carry the bag on your shoulder, but if it is inconvenient for you, you can unfasten the shoulder straps. I would recommend this bag if you travel a lot and take a lot of fishing gear. It is able to accommodate all this and keep it intact.

It has a comfortable handle

A lot of pockets for storage

You can put 4 rods at the same time

You may be confused by the price. But the quality is worth it

6# Hoovy Fishing Rod Carrying Case – Best Protection For Fishing Rods

This is my brother’s favorite case! He has been using it for more than three years and doesn’t think about changing it. He is an avid fisherman, but he uses this case not only for storing equipment for fishing but also takes it with him on hikes and trips. Because you can fit everything in there. It has 5 compartments for fishing rods, as well as pockets for other equipment. To keep your things in place, there are special straps for this. For your convenience, it can be carried as a backpack. It is made of polyester fabric that is water-resistant. This case is great protection for your fishing rod!

5 compartments for fishing rods

Can be worn as a backpack

Good material

It may seem too large

7# Huntvp Fishing Rod Reel Case Bag – Best Storage Bag

In my opinion, this is a roomy and practical bag for storing your fishing rods. You can store up to 5 rods and reels on the outside of the bag. There is also space inside the bag for other gear. Your fishing rods will be safe as they are secured on top with two straps. There is also a clasp around the outer center. For ease of carrying there is a shoulder strap. If this type of carrying doesn’t suit you, then there is a convenient handle. This bag has everything you need and most importantly there is nothing extra!

Handle and shoulder strap for carrying

High-tech polyester

When there’s nothing in the bag it doesn’t stand

8# Plano 4448 Fabric Rod Tube – Best Bag for Transporting Fishing Rod

I can tell you that this is an affordable and good option for storing your fishing rod. I haven’t heard complaints about damage from my friends who use this case. Since the ends of the bag are filled with foam this provides additional protection for the fishing rod tips. The case doesn’t take up much space so it is perfect for transporting in a car or on a plane. The handle is made of nylon and is convenient for carrying the case. It has a simple and practical design. Neutral green color. I would say that this is a simple and at the same time durable case for your fishing rod!

Strong and practical

Soft handle

Good design

No additional pockets for storing other fishing equipment

9# Clear Creek Fishing Rod & Gear Bag – Best Travel Fishing Case

This is the case that is made of good material and spacious. It is made of denier fabric. It is water-resistant and durable. The manufacturer uses high-quality zippers that work well. You can carry the bag on your shoulder using the shoulder strap, you can adjust it to fit you. If you want, you will be able to take it off. And use the handle to carry the case. It is durable and so don’t worry about it breaking. The lower section of the bag can accommodate 6 rods at once. You can also put reels, lures, and other fishing equipment in the bag. You can even put clothes and other items that you will need for fishing. An excellent case in black color for storing your fishing equipment!

Strong handle and shoulder strap

Good zippers

Material is water-resistant

It is an expensive thing

10# Entsport E Series – Best Simple Case For Your Pole

I like this case because the fishing rod is safe and easy to carry. It has a simple design. It can be carried using the handle that is located in the middle of the case. A durable and high-quality zipper that fastens well. You won’t have any problems with it. Because not high-quality zippers are a frequent drawback for many cases. If you are looking for something simple and durable at an affordable price, then this case is what you need!

Durable and simple

The zipper works well

Easy to carry

Suitable for storing only one fishing rod

11# Lixada Fishing Rod Case – Best Portable Case

A great case that is suitable not only for storing fishing rods, but also other equipment. It has two main compartments and many additional pockets. All departments are closed with zippers that are of good quality. The case is made of Oxford fabric 420D. It doesn’t tear and it is water-resistant. The case is convenient to carry. This can be done with a handle or straps and hung on the back. If you don’t use it, you can fold it and put it away.

You can put a large amount of equipment

High-quality material

Easy to storage and carry

In the picture, the case looks smaller than it is in life

12# Valterra Black A04-5094BK EZ Adjustable Hose Carrier

This case resembles the shape of a pipe and perfectly copes with its protection. It is durable and not bulky. It can be attached wherever you need with screws and is easy to transport. For example, my friend attached it along the side of his trailer to make it easy to transport. Everything was going well. There is a place for an additional lock if you want to increase security.

Attractive design

Additional lock

The problem is that mount rings aren’t adjustable

13# Vexan ICE Fishing Rod & Tackle Bag Semi-Soft Case

This is a very large bag that can hold all your fishing rods and equipment. You can put 8 fishing rods in it if they have a length of up to 36 inches. The fabric is water-resistant. There are pockets on the outside of the bag where you can put everything you need. There are two handles on both sides for easy carrying of the bag! Your fishing rods will be completely safe with this case!

You can put 8 poles

There are additional pockets

Zippers are tightly fastened

14# Docooler Folding Fishing Rod Case – Best Water-Resistant Case

I think that this is a convenient case for storing your fishing rods and equipment. It has three separate compartments for fishing poles, as well as two pockets for other fishing gear. All these 5 departments are closed with a zipper. Easy to carry with straps. It can be carried as a backpack.

Pockets are conveniently located

It looks large enough

15# Lixada Fishing Rod Case – Best Durable Case

The last case on my list is a Lixada case. In it, you will find 3 main compartments for your fishing rods. There are 2 external pockets where you can carry lures or other things for fishing. There is also a mesh pocket. There you can put your essentials. The fabric is durable, waterproof, and difficult to tear. To make it easy to carry, use the handles or hang it on your shoulder using the shoulder strap.

There are a lot of pockets

The zippers won’t stay closed

Understanding the Value of Proper Rod Storage

More Than Just Storage: The Life-Saving Role of Rod Cases & Tubes 🛡️

Fishing rod cases, bags, and tubes are not merely storage options—they’re the lifeline of your rods. So, how exactly do they extend the life of your rods?

Protection from Environmental Factors : 🌦️ Cases, bags, and tubes safeguard your rods from harsh environmental conditions such as excessive sunlight, rain, snow, or even saltwater spray, all of which can affect the performance and lifespan of your gear.

Physical Damage Prevention : 🚧 These protectors keep your rods safe from accidental bumps, falls, or mishandling that could lead to scratches, breaks, or bends in your rod.

Organizational Efficiency : 🗄️ By keeping your rods neatly stored away, you reduce the risk of lines getting tangled or hooks causing accidental damage. It also makes it easier for you to find the right rod when you need it.

Transportation Ease : 🚚 When moving from one fishing spot to another, cases and tubes make transportation easier and safer. They protect the rod from damage during transit and make it convenient for you to carry them around.

Simply put, rod cases, bags, and tubes act as a shield, increasing the longevity of your rods and ensuring they perform optimally every time you cast your line.

Why Your Rods Are Worth More Than You Think 💰💖

Owning a fishing rod isn’t just about the financial investment you put into purchasing quality gear. It goes beyond that. Each rod often carries a sentimental value that’s priceless. From the rod you used to catch your first fish, to the one passed down from your grandfather, every rod has a story attached to it. Protecting these rods means preserving these memories.

Financially, it makes sense too. High-quality fishing rods can be a significant investment. By keeping them in top-notch condition, you are ensuring that you don’t need to replace them frequently due to avoidable damage. Plus, should you ever decide to sell a rod, maintaining it in a good state can fetch you a better resale value.

🔶In short, by investing in fishing rod cases, bags, and tubes, you’re not just protecting a piece of equipment—you’re preserving your memories, your investment, and your love for fishing. 🎣💕

The Anatomy of a Good Fishing Rod Case or Tube

Key Features of a Reliable Rod Case: What to Look For 🔍

When it comes to fishing rod cases and tubes, not all are created equal. To get the maximum benefit, you should look for certain key features:

• Durability : 💪 Choose cases and tubes that are robust and can withstand wear and tear. They should be able to handle knocks and bumps without damaging the rod inside.
• Waterproof : 🌧️ Your case or tube should provide protection from water and moisture. This is especially important if you’re a sea or rain-prone area angler.
• Lightweight : 🍃 Cases and tubes shouldn’t add too much extra weight to your gear. They should be easy to carry around during your fishing trips.
• Padding : 🛡️ Good cases and tubes have an inner padding or lining that provides an additional layer of protection for your rod.
• Size Adjustability : 📏 Many cases and tubes come with adjustable sizes, accommodating different lengths of rods.
• Lockable : 🔒 For extra security, especially during travels, opt for lockable cases.

Remember, the right case or tube can significantly enhance your fishing experience by taking care of your rod while you focus on the catch.

The Battle of Materials: Making the Right Choice for Your Rod Case 🎚️

Various materials are used in manufacturing rod cases and tubes, each with its own set of advantages:

• Plastic/PVC : 🧴 Affordable, waterproof, and reasonably durable. However, they might not offer the best shock protection.
• Canvas : 🎒 Durable, lightweight, and often come with padding for extra protection. However, they may not be fully waterproof.
• Leather : 💼 High-quality and durable with a classy look. But, they can be heavier and require more maintenance.
• Aluminum : 🥫 Premium, high durability, lightweight, and excellent protective properties. However, they can be more expensive.

The choice of material will often depend on your budget, the type of fishing you do, and your personal preference.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Matching Your Case to Your Rod 📐

When choosing a case or tube, it’s essential to consider the type of fishing rod you own. Cases and tubes come in different lengths and diameters. Make sure your case or tube can accommodate your rod’s length and the number of pieces it breaks down into.

For example, if you use a telescopic rod that collapses down small, a shorter, more compact case might be ideal. If you own a one-piece rod, you’d need a longer tube.

🔶Investing some time in understanding what makes a good case or tube will go a long way in enhancing the lifespan and performance of your beloved fishing rods. 🎣💖

Key Considerations for Choosing a Fishing Rod Case

Convenient Carrying

Ease of transportation plays a pivotal role in your choice of fishing rod case. Given that you’ll be carrying your gear within this case, it should cater to your convenience. If your usage primarily involves moving the case to and from your vehicle, you may opt for a case without shoulder straps. However, if you foresee long durations of carrying a heavy bag, a model with sturdy shoulder straps, or even a backpack-style case, might be your best bet.

Robustness and Safety

Select a case constructed from tough, long-lasting materials, as its primary duty is to safeguard your fishing rod. Water resistance becomes a particularly vital factor if you’re an angler who loves boat fishing. A case that can withstand the elements will ensure your gear stays dry and protected.

Perfect Fit

The size of your case is highly personal, contingent upon your fishing habits. Frequent fishers who carry several rods and abundant fishing equipment should look towards a case with multiple compartments, capable of housing more than just a couple of rods. However, if your needs are more modest, a simpler design might suffice. Remember that larger cases might not fit in your car’s trunk easily, and air travel could also pose restrictions on size. Before you decide, ascertain whether your case falls under the category of oversized items for flights.

Remember, a case is not just a protective shell; it’s an investment in the longevity and performance of your fishing rods. Choose wisely.

Choosing the Right Type of Storage: Cases, Bags, and Tubes

Decoding Rod Storage: Cases, Bags & Tubes Explained 🗂️

While it might seem that fishing rod cases, bags, and tubes serve the same purpose, they each have unique characteristics that cater to different needs. Let’s dive deep into the specifics:

Rod Cases : 🧳 Rod cases are typically hard-sided, offering robust protection. They’re ideal for storing one-piece rods or multiple rods without reels attached.

• Pros : Excellent for travel, provide superior protection, usually lockable.
• Cons : Can be bulky, more expensive, not as versatile for storing other gear.

Rod Bags : 🛍️ Rod bags are generally soft-sided, often made from durable fabrics. They come with multiple compartments to store other gear along with your rods.

• Pros : Lightweight, flexible storage, can accommodate other fishing gear.
• Cons : Lower protection level, not always waterproof, may not protect against heavy impacts.

Rod Tubes : 🗜️ Rod tubes are cylindrical storage options. They’re best suited for single rods and are popular for their portability and ease of use.

• Pros : Compact, easy to carry, usually waterproof.
• Cons : Limited to one rod, no extra storage for other gear.

Choosing Your Protector: Factors to Consider 🤔

How do you choose between a case, bag, or tube? The answer lies in considering your specific needs:

• Type of Fishing : 🐟 If you’re into high-impact fishing like surf fishing, a sturdy case may be a better choice. For a more relaxed fishing style like freshwater fishing, a bag or tube could suffice.
• Travel Requirements : ✈️ If you travel frequently, especially by air, hard-sided cases or tubes would be ideal for their robust protection. For local trips, a bag might be more comfortable and versatile.
• Number of Rods : 🎣 If you carry multiple rods, a case or a bag with enough compartments would be the way to go. A tube would work best for a single rod.

🔶The key is to consider your unique requirements and choose a storage option that best caters to those. After all, the right storage choice is the one that ensures your fishing adventures are always smooth sailing! 🚣‍♂️💖

Care and Maintenance of Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes

TLC for Your Rod Protectors: Cleaning and Caring 101 🧼

Your fishing rod cases and tubes do a stellar job protecting your precious rods, but they too need some care to perform their best. Here’s how you can keep them clean and cared for:

• Cleaning : 🧹 Regularly clean the interior and exterior of your case or tube. For most materials, a mild soap solution and a soft cloth should do the trick. For leather cases, a specialized leather cleaner is advisable.
• Drying : ☀️ Always ensure your case or tube is completely dry before storing your rod. This prevents mold and mildew. If your case gets wet during your fishing trip, open it up and let it air dry thoroughly.
• Check for Damage : 🔍 Regularly inspect your case or tube for any signs of wear or tear. Look for any cracks, tears, or broken zippers that may compromise the protection of your rod.
• Proper Storage : 🗄️ When not in use, store your case or tube in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent any material degradation.

Long Live Your Case: Maximizing Lifespan 🏋️

To extend the lifespan of your fishing rod cases and tubes, consider these tips:

• Avoid Overloading : 🏋️‍♂️ Avoid stuffing too many rods or other gear into your case or bag. This could lead to stretching, tearing, or a broken zipper.
• Routine Maintenance : 🛠️ Regular cleaning and inspection can help you spot potential issues early and address them before they escalate.
• Handle with Care : 💖 Although cases and tubes are designed to be durable, treating them gently will add years to their life. Avoid tossing them around or placing heavy objects on them.

🔶Remember, a well-maintained rod case or tube not only lasts longer but also offers better protection to your rods. When you care for your case, you care for your rods too! 🎣💕

🎦 Video YouTube: How to make a DIY Fishing Rod Carrier for 9$

Case Studies: Top-Rated Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes on the Market

The Titans of Rod Protection: Reviews and Comparisons 🏆

Navigating the sea of fishing rod cases and tubes can be challenging. So, here are a few top-rated models that have won the favor of fishermen worldwide:

• Case Master Deluxe : 🥇 An incredibly sturdy and durable rod case, it offers solid protection with foam padding and hard-sided construction. Perfect for travelling, it can hold up to 4 rods and has additional compartments for gear storage. Check it out here.
• BW Sports Dual Fly Rod & Reel Case : 🥈 Designed specifically for fly rods, it features a unique dual tube design with integrated reel pouches. It’s lightweight, rugged, and can hold up to two 9-foot rods with reels attached. See more here.
• Plano Airliner Telescoping Rod Case : 🥉 Excellent for the traveling angler, this case can extend up to 88 inches but collapses down to 47 inches for easy storage. It can hold several rods and is lockable for added security. Find it here.

Hear it From the Pros: Testimonials 🗣️

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some professional anglers have to say:

• Mark Sullivan, Competitive Bass Angler : 💬 “The Case Master Deluxe has been my trusty companion on many fishing trips. It’s reliable, robust, and really takes the stress out of transporting my rods.”
• Alice Thompson, Fly Fishing Instructor : 💬 “The BW Sports Dual Fly Rod & Reel Case is a game-changer. It’s super convenient to have my fly rods and reels in one compact, easy-to-carry case.”
• Daniel Kim, Tournament Angler : 💬 “Travelling for tournaments is so much easier with the Plano Airliner Telescoping Rod Case. I love that it can hold multiple rods, and the lockable feature gives me peace of mind.”

🔶Finding the right rod case or tube can truly elevate your fishing experience. Remember, what works best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. So choose wisely and fish freely! 🎣💖

A Guide to Packing Your Rods for Travel

Safeguarding Your Rods: Step-by-Step Packing Guide 📦

Ensuring your rods are safely packed can make all the difference when traveling. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to pack your rods like a pro:

• Inspect Your Rod : 🔎 Check your fishing rod for any existing damage or loose parts.
• Disassemble : 🛠️ If possible, disassemble your rod into smaller parts. This reduces the risk of damage during transit.
• Wrap Individual Pieces : 📜 Use bubble wrap or a soft cloth to wrap each section of the rod individually. This provides extra padding and prevents scratches.
• Place in Case or Tube : 🗄️ Carefully place the wrapped rod sections into your chosen case or tube. If your case has specific compartments, use them accordingly.
• Secure Everything : 🔒 Make sure everything is snug and secure inside. There should be no movement when you shake the case or tube.

On the Move: Handling Tips for Transit 🚚

Once your rods are safely packed, how you handle your case or tube during transit is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Handle with Care : 💼 Whether you’re carrying your case by hand or stowing it in a vehicle, always handle it gently.
• Position Correctly : ↔️ Always place your case or tube horizontally and secure it to prevent any movement. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it.
• Climate Control : ☀️🌧️ Avoid leaving your case or tube in extreme heat or cold for prolonged periods. This can cause damage to both the case and the rods inside.
• Check Regularly : 👀 Regularly check your case or tube during your trip to ensure it hasn’t moved or been damaged.

🔶Remember, packing and handling your rods correctly can go a long way in extending their life and performance. So take the time to do it right, and happy fishing! 🎣

❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Fishing Rod Cases & Tubes 🎣💼

🔶Remember, if you treat your rods right, they’ll treat you to many exciting fishing adventures! 🎣💖

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8 Best Travel Fly Rods: 2024 Buyers Guide

To be honest, I don’t own or use travel fly rods myself, however, since I have guided hundreds of traveling clients that have come from as far away as Africa and Australia, some of them bring their travel fly rods so I’ve had plenty of opportunity to cast and fish with some good travel fly rods, and some not so good travel fly rods.

If you are on a budget, the best travel fly rod is the Redington Classic Trout, which sells for about $189, or the Orvis Clearwater Travel Fly Rod for $249, or if you’ve got the cash, the overall best travel fly rod is the Hardy Aydon Travel Fly Rod.

I’ll discuss other travel fly rods from $79.00 to over $500.

To be honest, some of the discount travel rods and the telescopic travel rods I’ve tried really suck! They just don’t load well, which means they cast poorly, and when fishing with them they either feel like a pool cue or are whippy like a wet noodle. As a fly casting and fly fishing instructor, I know that learning to cast on these very cheap rods will be harder.

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What Is A Travel Rod?

Travel rods are like regular fly rods except that they are six or eight pieces, and when they are broken down, they are often less than 20 inches, making them perfect for a suitcase on a plane or for stuffing in a backpack and hiking into a secluded fishing spot.

A travel fishing rod or travel rod uses a lightweight design crafted of graphite or carbon fiber .

Travel rods do not typically come with a reel unless you are buying some of the cheap ones on Amazon. You can find travel rods designed for various applications and weights from three-weight to ten-weight for big salmon.

Although they are called travel fly rods, they can be used anywhere and all the time if you want.

These are my reviews of the top travel fly rods available today, and I’ll let you choose which one best fits your needs.

Common Travel Fly Rod Lengths, Weights, and Pieces

While travel fly rods can reach up to 14 feet in length, those designs remain pretty rate. The typical lengths for these rods range from 8.5 to 10 feet, with the most common lengths including:

What’s the perfect length for a travel fly rod, you ask? Choose fly rods of up to nine feet in length to gain the best accuracy, but if you need greater flexibility or for custom methods, choose a rod of greater than nine feet. Nine feet offers the sweet spot for a fly rod.

Because travel rods are made with more pieces than a two-piece or a four-piece they are slightly heavier. This is due to the ferrules and the extra resins. Many five or six weights are around 3 to 4 ounces on average. However, the actual weight of the rod will depend on how long the rod is and the rod weight rating.

Some of the really cheap Fiberglass fly rods weigh the most, between six and 15 ounces (between 170 and 425 grams), but graphite and composite rods weigh less. Fly rods don’t come imprinted with their ounces or grams weight but you can find that on the manufacturer’s website.

Typically, you use the same line weight as the rod weight rating, so if the manufacturer recommends a weight rating of five, you’ll read a 5wt on the side of the rod or its packaging.

Pro Tip: Rod weight matters a lot. Use a fly rod with a weight of one to four for small trout or panfish or really for any small stream fishing. When fishing in large streams or rivers, use a four to six-weight rod to catch trout and small bass.

If you can only pack one rod for a trout fishing trip, choose a five-weight for its versatility.

Bass, carp, pike, and steelhead fishing requires a six to eight-weight fly rod and line, while large salmon, steelhead, musky, or saltwater fishing requires eight to 10-weight rods.

Fly fishing for big game fish like Tarpon takes the heaviest weight rod and line of 10 to 14.

Pro Tip #2: With any fly rod the sections can come apart when casting. I’ve seen hundreds of rod tips go flying off when casting. With travel rods, there are even more sections that can potentially come off.

To lower the chance of this from happening, when lining up your ferrules, instead of lining them up and then pushing them tight, have them slightly misaligned and then twist them into alignment as you push them together tight. This twisting locks them in place better, and rarely do my rod pieces ever come apart during casting.

Best Travel Fly Rods: All Price Ranges

Now that we’ve covered the common weights, lengths, and pieces, and what sizes are best per species, let’s dive into the greatest depths of fly fishing gear to explore the best travel fly rods.

I’ll cover a variety of rod weights and lengths, so you can find one that suits your needs whether you want to fish the shallows of the Oklahoma River, or the deep waters of the Hudson River, or the Niagara River.

Douglas Upstream Ultra-Lite Fly Rod

I really loved fishing the Douglas Upstream Ultra-lite Fly rod in both the 4-piece and the 6-piece travel rod.

It is super smooth casting and is a light rod that is great for small stream trout and panfish.

This is, as the name implies, a lightweight rod, and it only comes in 2, 3, and 4 weight sizes.

Douglas offers its Upstream Ultra-Lite fly rod in eight lengths, ranging from six feet six inches to eight feet eight inches.

Choose between a simple two-piece fly fishing rod or a more complex six-piece design in this.

Only the six-foot-six-inch rod comes in the two-piece design. The seven feet three inches, eight feet, eight feet three inches, and eight feet eight inches rods come in four pieces. You can get the seven feet, seven feet six inches, and eight feet lengths in a six-piece design.

Every option uses the same bamboo-like handle design made from cork. This rod features spigot ferrules to enhance energy transferability and a sliding ring reel seat to reduce weight.

Every rod comes with a 1 5/8” brushed aluminum rod tube and sock to make packing it easier.

Hardy Aydon Travel Fly Rod

When you want the best medium fast rod action travel rod, try the Hardy Aydon travel fly rod, offering four length options from 3 weight to 10 weight:

This six-piece rod handles line weights of four through 10, depending on the length of the rod. The design combines a cork rod handle with a ceramic guide of lined titanium stripper and a chrome single foot.

The overall rod uses Sintrix multi-modulus carbon fiber, so it weighs less than a fiberglass rod. Some individuals may find this an easier rod to use because of the keyed fly reel seat slide band that doesn’t weigh much.

Depending on the rod length you choose, the design either uses aluminum or wood spacers.

One of my favorite things about the Aydon model rod comes from its packaging. Hardy provides a travel tube that helps keep all of the pieces of the fishing rod together in your backpack or suitcase.

Greys Wing Travel Fly Rod

Okay, I feature this rod, hence the link to another page on this website, so you know I love it.

It’s my favorite when I need a medium-fast rod action. Greys Wing six-piece travel fly rod comes in four lengths, but I recommend the nine-foot length because it offers the greatest versatility in various fishing situations.

Here are all of the length options:

• 11 feet four inches

Depending on the length you choose, you can use a 3wt, 5wt, 8wt, or 9wt line with this six-piece rod.

You get two handle choices – RHW or TPSF. Like most travel rods, this design uses a cork rod handle. Greys Wing’s design features a lined stripper with a stainless steel snake on a Powerlux carbon rod in a grey and red color combination.

Depending on the length of the rod you pick, this design uses either single or double-foot snake guides and either wood or alloy spacers with an alloy fly reel seat. Its reel features dual locking nuts with a nylon cushion ring.

Similar to the Douglas Upstream, it uses a keyed and milled reel seat slide band. I love that Greys Wing makes it easier to safely pack this rod by supplying a hard tube and rod bag for it.

Echo Trip Eight Piece

The other fishing rods reviewed offer a bevy of lengths, but Echo’s Trip travel rod comes apart in eight pieces for truly simple packing.

Each piece measures 15 inches, and its case measures 18 inches. That means you can easily fit it into any suitcase or backpack.

Echo chose to offer its travel fishing rod only in a nine-foot length.

It does offer three versions catering to three line weights: 5wt, 6wt, and 8wt.

By choosing to design this rod in only nine feet, Echo has focused on providing power and fast action for its travel rod.

Orvis Clearwater

You can get excited with the price of the six-piece Clearwater Travel Fly Rod, $249. It is a great rod for that price.

To get the whole outfit, you’ll pay the same price as you would for the other options in this article – about $500 to $550.

Now, on to its design. This snazzy-looking black chrome rod with white accents features a chrome snake and a stripping guide with a ceramic insert.

The sleek looks continue with its black nickel aluminum reel seats. It does just look cool, Orvis used composite tips on the fighting butts to add to the durability of the rod.

Like many other travel fly rods, it comes with a rod tube. This one’s in gray.

Redington Classic Trout

The Redington Classic Trout fly rod is specifically designed for trout. Why? It’s in the name.

I have had the opportunity to try this rod a few times, and if I were going to buy a travel fly rod under $200, this would be it.

The Redington Classic Trout Rod comes in four pieces and six pieces.

While all the four-piece rods come in lengths and weights, starting at 7 feet six inches and ranging up to nine feet in length.

The Redington Classic Trout travel rod only has one model, which is a 9 foot 5 weight that comes in 6 pieces to make traveling easier.

This rod’s moderate action works well for all anglers, and it’s good in small creeks, rivers, or from the comfort of your boat.

Because it only weighs 3.1 ounces and offers great flexibility, it provides a superb alternative for a long day of fishing.

Choose from two configurations – a four-piece or a backpack-optimized six-piece. Various fly fish rod lengths work with different line weights. Here’s a quick guide:

• 7 feet six inches, 2wt or 3wt
• 8 feet, 4wt
• 8 feet six inches, 3wt,
• 9 feet, 5wt, 6wt.

As usual, the nine feet in length option offers the greatest versatility in application.

Redington Trailblazer

Another Redington winner is the Redington Trailblazer.

While the Classic Trout specializes in trout fishing, the Trailblazer was made for backpacking and traveling and can work for essentially any fishing situation.

The compact design breaks apart into six pieces and comes in two length options.

Choose either a 7 feet six-inch design that works with a 3wt line for small stream fishing, little tout, and panfish, or a nine feet option that works with a 5wt line for bigger rivers, lake fishing, nymphing and streamer fishing, bigger trout and bass, and any waterway requiring a loner casts.

Redington includes a compact storage tube to help keep all parts safe and organized.

According to the manufacturer, the Trailblazer provides the lightest rod they’ve offered.

Also, if you care about such things, this rod comes in a jaunty red blank streaked with neon green.

Getting down to the mechanics of this rod, it uses single-foot snake guides and an anodized aluminum reel seat, resulting in a travel rod that weighs less but also proves more durable.

M MAXIMUMCATCH Travel Fishing Rod

Best Tavel Fly Rod Under $100

One of my clients had this rod with him, and since I’d seen it on Amazon and since it was very inexpensive, I decided to try it out.

Although the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Traveler Fly Fishing Rod casts 40 feet of fly line pretty well, this is still my least favorite of all the rods on this page.

I felt that the rod felt a bit heavy and a bit stiff compared to most rods and my concern is the durability of the rod. It just didn’t feel as good when casting and fishing and when fighting fish.

However, If you are a total beginner or you have a young child who is hard on gear and you don’t want him using a $200 rod, then this is a good option, and that is why I’m recommending it.

It comes in a range of 5 to 8 weight and is only made as a 9-foot rod.

If you are looking for an entire setup, check out my recent article on the best fly fishing combos and kits , and if you need a reel to go with your rods, check out the Best Fly Reels page.

Best Fly Rods For Traveling Summary

If you are looking for the best fly rods for travel, these are them and they range from $79 to over $900.00. My advice when choosing a travel fly rod is to choose the best one that fits your budget.

Tight Lines,

Professional Fishing Guide and Author At Trout And Steelhead

Graham Bristow is the owner and lead author here at Trout and Steelhead.net, and he has been writing about fishing since 2015.

Since September 2000, Graham has guided over 3000 clients over his 22 years as a guide and it now recognized as a top fishing guide.

Graham specializes in fly fishing, float fishing, and lure fishing for trout, steelhead, and salmon. About Graham

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Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023 – Top Rated Travel Rods

The best travel spinning rods.

Looking for a compact easy to transport rod that still performs? Our list of travel fishing rods has something for all budgets. 

Nothing beats hitting the open road to your favorite destination and as a fisherman the urge is always there to pack your fishing gear with you.

Sure a tackle box and a few reels don't take up too much space.

But rods are a different story.

One thing is for certain one and two piece rods can be a pain to transport especially if your travel plans involve catching a plane somewhere. Packing them up in large rod tubes can be a bit of a hassle.

A travel rod just makes life easier!

Our top choice as the best travel spinning rod is the Okuma Nomad . It maintains a near perfect taper along the rod blank due to a spigot furl design, high durability thanks to a carbon wrap over the graphite blank and is finished with premium quality line guides and reel seat.

The Nomad is best suited to salt water spinning or heavy freshwater work. If you are looking for a lighter freshwater travel rod then the St Croix Triumph 4-piece is an exceptional caster of light lures and is perfect for back-country hiking to small rivers and streams.

Okuma Nomad

The best travel spinning rod.

The Okuma Nomad is offers one of the best rod blank taper available on any travel rod, combined with premium ALPS hardware.

Rod design has certainly moved on in the last 10-15 years. Improvements in carbon fiber, graphite and even fiberglass construction techniques have given rod builders the necessary materials to produce some amazing travel rods.

Time was that your travel spinning rod was a clunky affair that lost a lot of it's sensitivity due to how the spigot affected the taper of the blank.

Clearly a one piece blank will always be the most sensitive and balanced when it comes to performance. However, travel rods these days have solved a lot of the old issues.

With a big wrap around spigot the natural taper in the blank was effected on a normal two piece rod.

Now multiple this be 3 for a 4 piece rod and you ended up with a rod that was limp and felt like it left you out of touch with your lure and hook setting.

A lot of modern travel fishing rods have whats known as a spigot ferrule . The spigot ferrule is essentially a piece that is bonded to the lower piece of the blank that the upper piece then slides onto.

It's perfectly normal for there to be a gap between each section, this allows for upper section to still fit snugly after the lower spigot has reduced in diameter due to normal wear and tear.

Below you will find a variety of different travel rods. Some are suited to heavier saltwater work and some to freshwater light spinning on rivers there are even a number of casting variants available if you prefer a baitcasting rod .

Best Travel Fishing Rod 2023

Why choose a travel rod over a telescopic fishing rod.

Although the quality of telescopic rods a has increased in recent years they still do not have the same feel through the blank.

Even though they have a regularly stepped taper due to each section fitting into the last still don't get the same feel from them.

A high quality travel rod such as the St Croix Triumph below will always outperform a telescopic rod. I have yet to find one that can compete with a well designed 3 or 4 piece travel rod. 

Now telescopic rods do have their place, they are great for keeping in the trunk of a car with a small reel and a handful of lures for the occasionally unplanned few hours after work.

However they usually never have the same backbone and always feel less than durable or capable of handling something a bit larger.

Best Travel Fishing Rods

Okuma Nomad Review

The top choice for best travel rod is the Okuma Nomad. It maintains its taper due to the spigot ferrule design described below giving an almost one piece feel to the blank.

The Okuma Nomad travel spinning rod is priced in the mid to high bracket. For the money you are getting one seriously sturdy rod. It definitely is rated on the high side when it comes to power.

So if you are looking for a light weight spinning setup then some thing like the Fenwick below might be more suitable. 

The beauty of the Nomad is if you intend to do some heavy freshwater spinning or some inshore boat work you can use one rod for both on those holiday trips to target many different species and it should have enough backbone to handle them.

The versatility of the Okuma doesn't stop there though. You get two different tips with each rod. Each with a different action meaning you have effectively two rods in one.

So if you are looking for a highly versatile saltwater spinning or heavy action freshwater spinning travel rod then the Okuma is the clear choice.

• Graphite blank with carbon outer wrap
• European spigot ferrule connection
• ALPS high rise 316 stainless steel guide frames
• ALPS two tone anodized aluminum reel seats
• Lifetime limited warranty
• Waterproof carrying case

St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning

If you are not looking for a heavy saltwater travel rod like the Okuma then take a look at the St Croix Triumph Travel spinning rod.

The range comes medium to heavy with all models having a fast action. These rods are suited to medium/light spinning.

They can happily perform spinning on small rivers and streams with smaller on 4-10 lbs line. The action is fast so you have some very quick hook setting capabilities and are pretty sensitive for a 4 piece rod.

Although this rod does come with a padded travel case it is only a soft nylon case and St Croix really could have taken the crown of top rod if they had supplied the Triumph range with a hard shell case.

That being said if you are careful about how you transport the Triumph males for one heck of a travel rod. 

There is also a casting model of the Triumph featured below.

• SCII grahite
• Extremely sensitive
• Fast action taper
• Fuji DPS reel seat
• 5 year warranty

St Croix Triumph Travel Casting

If you are not looking for a dedicated spinning travel rod and prefer a baitcasting setup then the St Croix Triumph Travel casting rod is sure to please.

Built on effectively the same rod blank sections as the spinning model above, the casting model will of course have a baitcasting reel seat and has the lower profile line guides that are usually found on a casting rod.

There is only one model available unlike the spinning series above. It is a 6'6" rod in four sections also.

The power is medium/heavy with a fast action and the line rating is 10 - 20 lbs.

With a line rating in the 10/20 pounds range and with a lure rating of between 3/8 - 1 oz you can throw some fairly decent sized lures. So, if is perfectly capable of handling crankbaits, large spoons and spinners and jerkbaits.

• 4 section travel casting rod
• Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish
• Fuji ECS reel seat with silver hood

Fiblink 3-piece Spinning

These Fiblink 3 piece spinning rods are a great alternative to the Okuma if you are on a tight budget.

Similar in power to the Okuma the Fiblink are heavy rated and come in three possible lengths 6', 6'6" and 7' so pretty capable of handle some decent boat work too.

Like the Okuma these rods are certainly aimed at the saltwater fisherman. The line rating for them is in the 30-50 lbs and lure weights from 2-8 ounces. 

The Fiblink also comes with a waterproof carry case. However like any cloth based case it is not going to take too much abuse so if you intend on flying anywhere you might need an hard carry case.

• Graphite composite blanks
• Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts
• Aluminum alloy reel seat
• One year warranty

Fenwick Methods Spinning

Fenwick are long known as a premium brand that produce some very high quality rods. Thankfully that same quality is still instilled in their travel rod range the Methods.

With the ability to change both the middle and tip section of the rods for another with a different action the Fenwick Methods travel rods are extremely versatile. 

This versatility means you can pack light but still be adaptable. Adaptability is something that is great to have when you are away on a trip to some unknown destination.

This versatility is a good thing given that there is only two rods available in the range a 6'8" and a 7 footer. The power is medium/light to medium.

Supplied with a hard case is a nice additional bonus and it really shows that Fenwick had the traveler in mind when designing the Methods.  

• 5 pieces in total
• Travel tube included
• Multiple center sections and tips included
• Spigot ferral

Piscifun Graphite 4 Piece

Priced at the lower end of the scale the Piscifun graphite 4 piece travel pole is a lot of rod for the money. 

The blanks are mare from carbon fiber using Piscifun's ArmoreCore technology resulting in a very lightweight and yet strong rod.

They probaly have the biggest range available from any of the travel rods. There are 3 sizes available 6', 6'6" and a 7'. The power is from medium/light up to extra heavy. 

The strength of the carbon fiber blanks are reinforced with 8-ton E glass. That extra layer of fiberglass makes these rods a whole lot more durable than a regular carbon fiber.

• Carbon fiber blanks
• Ceramic guides
• Medium to heavy

Daiwa Ardito-TR Spinning

The Ardito-TR from Daiwa is a 3 piece travel rod. They are available in a spinning and a casting variation.

The model featured here is the spinning edition and are available in 7' or 7'6 rod lengths.

These rods have been expertly designed by Daiwa. They have put a lot of thought into getting the rod taper to remain consistent throughout the blank. The taping blank and ferrule joint give a really clean join between each of the sections.

These are a 3 piece rod and as such have a bit more backbone than some of the other 4 piece offerings.

Slightly heavier than some of the other travel rods out there, however it is a pretty tough rod some not quite as easy to break as some of the others in this line-up.

• 3 piece travel rod
• X45 Bias graphite fiber blanks
• V-Flex Ferrule joint system
• Semi-hard travel case
• 5 year limited warranty

Choosing the right rod means knowing exactly what kind of fishing you intend on doing ahead of time. 

However, if you are on vacation and are not sure just what kind of water you may be fishing then the best bet is a spinning setup as it is generally the most versatile.

A good spinning rod can be used for almost any type of fishing assuming of course that you are not hunting large shark or marlin miles offshore.

If you are looking for a really good all round setup then the something like a travel spinning kit may suit.

The Okuma Voyager travel kit is probably the most popular travel combo available today.

No t e : it is best suited to lightweight freshwater spinning though, it is not meant for anything heavy I don't think the size 20 Voyager reel should be used in saltwater.

Best Travel Rod and Reel Combo

Okuma Voyager Travel Kit

The Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit combines a rod, reel, tackle box and hard shell case all into a great value for money package.

The perfect travel combo to take away on a trip the Voyager travel kit comes with one of the best hard shell cases you'll find of any travel fishing rod.

A size 20 spinning reel definitely falls into the ultralight spinning category and with a sensitive 6 foot rod you can be sure to make some very accurate casts with lightweight lures. 

You also get a small lure box included in the kit. All of the components fit snugly in the interior padding of the kit so they won't get knocked about when in transit.

• Size 20 Voyager reel
• 6 foot rod comes in 5 pieces
• Hard shell padded travel case
• Small lure box included

Do You Need a Rod Tube ?

If you have ever tried to travel with a rod any kind of serious distance that involves using some for of publicly available transport such as a bus, plane or a train then you'll know that the luggage compartment is not the place to put your rod if you still want it in one piece when you arrive at your destination.

A rod tube however can provide good protection. Rod tubes are available in either soft or hard body variations.

Without a doubt travelling on a plane will require the use of a rod hard shell tube. The checked luggage compartment on a plane is usually crammed full of heavy luggage and a soft rod tube will quite simply not be strong enough to handle all that abuse.

The 5 Best Travel Fishing Rods of 2023

Geoff Stadnyk in Fishing Rods on January 3, 2023 January 3, 2023

Traveling fishing rods are all about convenience.

A traveling fishing rod should be portable, lightweight, and easy to transport without taking up much space.

Slipping the best travel fishing rod, reel, and a hand full of lures into your backpack when venturing into the great outdoors is how great memories are made.

True travel fishing rods generally follow two designs with the most recognizable being the telescopic fishing rod.

The second option is the take-down multi-piece designs.

The number of pieces can range between two to six sections with four-piece rods fairly common.

Best Travel Fishing Rod

A myriad of travel fishing rods is available today.

Amazon’s online store offers over three hundred options for various angling disciplines.

Some possibilities include rod and reel combos, including a few lures and hooks.

Prices vary widely, ranging from as low as twenty dollars to four hundred and fifty dollars.

Let’s look at a few popular travel fishing rod options from Amazon for your convenience.

Best Designed Travel Fishing Rod

Smuggler 7 – rigged & ready review.

In my opinion, Rigged & Ready has struck gold with the design of the Smuggler 7 range of travel rods. It offers great value in a decent length, increasing the versatility of the rig.

Fishing Rod Length

The Smuggler 7 travel fishing rod is a seven-piece, well eight, if you include the two rod tips fishing gear.

The tips are interchangeable, which changes the length of the rod from 7.8 feet to 8.6 feet.

Fishing Rod Material

The rod blank is made from high-performance, powerful nano carbon called SRF Zylon-Carbon-HighGlass.

A unique selling point is a claim that it has unbreakable rod tips.

The tips are of fiberglass construction and are white in color compared to the rest of the travel fishing rod, which is carbon black.

The fishing rod’s grip is made from quality EVA while the reel seat is the traditional graphite screw type.

The slimline rod guides or eyes are silicon lined, making the sturdy rod suitable for use with whatever type of fishing line is available.

Fishing Rod Action

This travel fishing rod is capable of various baitcasting weights depending on the rod tip used.

The blank is a medium action blank for use in many inland and sea fishing adventures.

0.17 ounce to 0.70 ounce (5-20 + gram) for the 8.6 feet rod (2.60 meter)

0.52 ounce to 1.41 ounce (15-40 gram) for the 7.8 feet rod (2.35 meter)

What type of fishing is the rod suited to?

The travel spinning rod fitted with an ultralight spinning reel makes this a cut above other spinning rods.

It is best to use with a bass fishing reel and is also great for catching carp, pike, and salmon.

Keeping in mind that this rod is made for use as a stand-by or non-primary fishing rod with the ability to get the job done in a variety of situations, the Smuggler 7 is a great choice.

The slightly more robust build with super-strong tips of this travel rod, when compared to all the rods, gives the angler the confidence to look forward to the best travel fishing experience.

The pricing of the affordable rods, which falls into the lower to mid-range spectrum, makes this a great option when buying matching rod sets for family members.

The length of the Smuggler 7 makes the rod easily managed by anglers of slight build.

It does not require a large fishing reel that helps in keeping the weight of the rod down.

Lines in the six to fifteen-pound class are well suited with the Smuggler 7 travel rod.

When used with fluorocarbon or braided lines, the rod is capable of far casts.

Best for Freshwater Fishing

Xceed 704m-s goture spinning rod review.

The Goture Exceed spinning rod is a great travel fishing rod for freshwater fishing.

The rods are made in four sections that push together to form the travel rod.

This series of rods are available in five different models, of which the Xceed 704M-S is my favorite.

The Xceed 704M-S travel rod is a four-piece device that slides into each other to make up the Goture travel fishing rod.

The total length of the assembled rod is seven feet.

The rod blank is made from 30T carbon fiber, while the handles are made from quality EVA material for a comfortable hold regardless of fishing style.

The reel seat is the traditional screw type and forms part of the middle EVA handle, which is turned to adjust the reel seat.

The rod sports eight stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts, making the rod suitable for use with any fishing pole line that you will pick .

The blank is medium to heavy with a fast to medium-fast action making this one of the best travel spinning rods.

The lure weight rating is 3/16 to 5/8 of an ounce.

The outfit fitted with the appropriate spinning reel makes a perfect travel spinning rod and is suitable for mainly plastic baits when bass fishing.

Of course, the rod is ideal for bait fishing, float fishing, and many applications.

The sturdy but light rod at barely 5 ounces is an excellent choice when taking a rod along on a hike or camping trip, especially if one doesn’t want to bother with a traditional one-piece rod that can be a pain to lug around.

The sticker price of the rod, which falls into the lower to mid-range pricing, makes this a great buy.

Suitable lines for this class of fishing rod are six to fourteen pounds, allowing you to land most inland fish species successfully.

Best Premium Quality Materials

St. croix avid trek 3-piece 7ft review.

The St Croix triumph travel series consists of seven models offering both spinning and casting configurations.

The brand is aimed at those anglers who demand top-quality travel fishing rods.

St Croix rods are handmade and constructed from premium quality materials.

The St. Croix 7Ft is my choice for fishing trips.

The seven-foot length strikes a good compromise between the rod’s portability when disassembled and practical rod length for most inland fishing purposes.

The rod blank is made from high-modulus SCIII carbon fiber material using IPC (Integrated poly curve technology) and ART technology.

The fishing rod handles are made from quality cork, while the reel seat is a screw-type supplied by Fuji for whole day fishing.

The slimline rod guides or eyes are zirconia lined, making the rod suitable for all types of fishing lines.

The ferrules or joints on the rod’s blank are slim line and reinforced to ensure the rod feels and performs like a one-piece rod and avoids dead spots in the rod’s action.

The rod is classed under medium action rods but is perfectly capable of heavy action as well.

Suitability for the casting of baits is between ½ ounce to 1 ¼ ounce.

Given its robust construction, this travel rod fitted with the appropriate spinning reel makes for an excellent spinning rig suitable for lure and baitcasting of the most common fish species.

The Xceed 70 is an excellent choice for use in most waterways.

The light construction, compactness, and high sensitivity make the rod versatile for various fishing situations.

The pricing of the rod falls into the higher pricing bracket and is backed by St. Croix triumph travel warranties – a transferable fifteen-year warranty which is one of the best in the industry.

Slightly built anglers can easily manage the length of the Exceed 70 and also will not require the use of a large reel which helps in keeping the weight of the rod down.

The ten to twenty-pound class lines are well suited for use with the St. Croix Xceed 70.

Best Build Quality and Materials

Angryfish telescopic spinning rod review.

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod impressed me with its build quality and materials.

Many of the features found on the rod are often found on many higher-priced telescopic rods.

The rods are churned out in great numbers, but the quality is good.

All told, this telescopic rod is an excellent buy.

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod is available in two lengths, 6.8 feet or 7.8 feet.

My choice is the 6.8 feet due to its slightly smaller dimensions when folded.

The rod blank, consisting of six sections sporting very low dimension ferrules, is made of carbon fiber.

The reel seat is an ABS screw-type molded part that allows your finder to rest on the rod blank for added sensitivity.

The rod handles are made of EVA material, ensuring a firm but comfortable hold on the rod without causing fatigue.

The rod guides, of which there are six, are stainless steel with ceramic inserts to make the rod suitable for use with all types of fishing lines.

The blank is medium to heavy with a medium-fast action, making this a great spinning model.

The lure weight rating is 0.2 ounces to 0.7 ounces (5 to 20 grams).

The Angryfish telescopic fishing rod is an excellent option for the weekend recreational angler.

Fitted with the appropriate spinning reel, the rod makes for a great spinning rig.

The rod is well suited for casting plastic baits when bass fishing.

Of course, the rod is suitable for most travel fishing applications where smaller fish species are targeted.

The sturdy but light rod at barely 4 ½ ounces in weight is a great choice when going along on an outing where a fishing opportunity might present itself.

The pricing of the telescopic rod falls in the lower range and is excellent value for money.

Suitable lines for this class of fishing rod are ten to twenty pounds, allowing you to catch most inland fish species successfully.

Best Priced

Sougayilang 6.9ft blue - telescopic spinning fishing rod review.

The Sougayilang telescopic spinning rod is amazingly low priced for its quality.

Available in combo form which includes some basic fishing lures and hooks and a spinning reel, I picked the 6.9 feet rod.

The Sougayilang telescopic rods are available in five lengths ranging from 5.9 feet to 10.9 feet.

My choice is the 6.9 feet due to its practical size for a travel fishing kit.

The rod blank consists of five sections sporting stainless steel ferrules to which the guides are attached.

The rod blank is made from high-density 24-ton carbon fiber and E-Glass composite.

The reel seat is CNC machined aluminum and appears of great quality.

The blank is a medium-fast action, making this a great all-purpose spinning rod for any fishing trip.

The lure weight rating is 0.3 ounces to 0.8 ounces.

A telescopic spinning rod is an excellent option for the average recreational angler.

The travel rod is fitted with the appropriate spinning reel to make a great spinning and general-purpose device.

The rod falls in the lower pricing range and is great value for money.

Suitable lines for this class of telescopic rods are six to fifteen pounds, allowing you to land most inland fish species.

And The Best Travel Fishing Rod Is…

My choice for the best fishing rod for the average recreational angler and traveler is the Rigged & Ready Smuggler 7!

The small dimensions when folded, nice storage tube, multi-tip option, price, and great build quality makes this rod a top-class product.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Travel Fishing Rods

In order to choose the best rods, you need to consider a few things before buying a certain model.

1. Length of the Rod

You need to choose the right rod length for your specific fishing application or what you plan to fish.

It’s best to start with a short rod if you are a beginner since this size is easy to master, and can be used for many different applications.

A medium travel rod is helpful for catching species like beam, golden perch, trout, whiting, and other small fish.

A larger fish, of course, like kingfish, mackerel, queenfish, trevally, and others will require a longer travel fishing rod.

2. Number of Rod Pieces

Multi-piece rods can be broken down into two, three, four, or even up to eight pieces.

This makes them easier to carry in your luggage or fishing rod case when it is time to pack.

The parts are also easier to replace when you break or lose one because you only have to buy one section and not the whole rod.

The downside is you have several pieces to look after and you have to secure each segment tightly or they might break under strain.

Multi-piece rods are also more expensive than one-piece rods.

3. Fishing Rod Material

The material from which the rod is made will play a big role in its durability, and price .

Fiberglass rods have been around for ages because they are durable and affordable but their lower sensitivity makes it harder to detect lighter bites.

Graphite rods have high tensile strength and sensitivity but it is an expensive material for those on a budget.

A composite rod combines the best features of both fiberglass and graphite but is more expensive than pure fiberglass rods and less sensitive than pure graphite ones.

You may also want to look at the other rod components like the rod guide which is best with a ceramic coating and the rod handle which comes in cork or EVA foam.

4. Rod Power

Power is a measure of how strong a rod is and its capability to withstand pressure when catching fish.

Rod power ratings are classified as light, medium, or heavy, or medium/light or medium/heavy in some cases.

A light power rating means the rod can only handle small fish species like crappie, trout, bluegill, and other panfish.

A medium power rating is fine for, well, medium-sized fish such as bass, catfish, pike, or walleye.

For big fish such as musky and tuna, a heavy power rod is a must.

Medium-light bridges light to medium and is capable against smallmouth bass and steelhead trout.

Medium-heavy, on the other hand, has excellent power for flounder, pompano, and salmon.

Fishing rods are available in a mind-boggling variety and quality.

The critical requirements for a travel rod are portability and convenience.

The Smuggler 7 fishing rod kit fits the bill of the best travel rod superbly by offering a two-in-one rod option with interchangeable tip sections that make it a great buy.

Geoff started fishing as a child in the gorgeous lakes of Mammoth, while on family vacations. His fishing experience includes the use of fly rod and reel. Guided trips along the Madison and Gallatin rivers in Montana, the Frying Pan and Animus in Colorado, and the Deschutes river in Oregon have all paid off and helped make Geoff the angler and writer that he is today.

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Best Travel Fishing Rods for Out-Of-State Fishing Trips

Leave your heavy and expensive one-piece fishing rod at home. For your next out-of-state fishing trips, opt for these best travel fishing rods.

They are more compact and can also provide you with the performance you need for a successful day out in the water. Some even have features comparable to a premium one-piece fishing rod! 

What You Should Consider Before Buying a Travel Fishing Rod

The price tag of a travel fishing rod is not the only factor you should consider. You should also look into the rod length, type, material, action, and power of a fishing rod for travel. 

Multiple Piece Rod vs. Telescopic Fishing Rod

A travel fishing rod can either be telescopic or a multiple-piece. 

A multiple-piece travel rod consists of several parts (mostly between 2 and four) that you connect together to form one piece of rod. On the other hand, a telescopic fishing rod is collapsible. For instance, a 10-foot telescopic rod can fold half its size, allowing you to put it inside a backpack or luggage. 

These two types of travel fishing rods are portable, durable, and perfect for out-of-state fishing trips. However, the multiple-piece fishing rod works if you are looking for a simple fishing set-up and optimal tackle load distribution.

On the other hand, the telescopic fishing rod will fit in a small fishing rod travel case and offer a comfortable grip and more flexibility.

Rod Action and Rod Power

Rod action refers to the fishing rod’s ability to bend and revert to its original shape when under pressure. Travel fishing rods can be slow, medium, or fast rod action. 

But some fishing rods indicate the rod power rating instead. Here is a closer look:   

The ultralight action relates more to rod power or the rod’s ability to withstand pressure. Ultralight rods are bendy and can only handle pressure from smaller lures, weighing approximately a quarter of an ounce. 

Fast Action

Fast-action rods bend right below the tip and are perfect for attracting large fish in fresh and salty water. The quick action and sensitivity to bites make these rods ideal for strong hook settings, especially for single hooks. 

Slow Action

Slow action rods are incredibly flexible, bending from the tip to the butt of the rod. These rods are ideal for casting smaller lures and work well for smaller fish species.

Medium Action

As for medium or moderate action rods, they can bend from the tip to the middle of the fishing rod. This gives you a wider casting distance and impressive hook setting abilities. In addition, the rods are versatile, meaning you can use them to catch small and big fish in different waters.

Medium-Heavy

If you want to hook a catfish or bass, you will need a medium-heavy rod. Medium-heavy refers to the rod’s ability to handle weight pressure. Medium-heavy rods handle bigger fish and larger lures, weighing one to four ounces.

Many travel fishing rods are usually spinning rods because they are easier to handle, simple to use, and versatile. Moreover, they provide extra stability because the included spinning reel is just below the rod. 

You can also find fishing rods for travel with a baitcaster or fly reels. However, these rods are slightly more technical and should be used for seasoned anglers. 

Expert Tip:  A surf rod can be more suitable if you don’t intend to spend much time in the water. It has a more extended handle and a wider casting distance for shoreline fishing. 

You should also consider rod length because it determines casting distance and the type of fishing you can do. For example, you will need a longer rod for surf fishing, but a shorter rod length is ideal for accurate casts.

The average rod length for a travel fishing rod is approximately 4 to 14 feet. 

Travel fishing rods can be made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, synthetic, and graphite.

• Fiberglass  is the most common material due to its endurance, flexibility, and affordability. If you’re an amateur angler, you will enjoy using fiberglass rods for slow to medium action.
• Carbon fiber  rods   feature high-tech carbon material, contributing to their tensile properties and high price tags. In addition, the fishing rods are highly-sensitive and lightweight for travel.
• Graphite  can also detect nibble vibrations. In fact, the sensitivity and lightweight nature of this material allow you to cast farther and control movements.
• Composite  is also a fun and reliable material that combines the benefits of graphite and fiberglass materials. 

Additional materials include bamboo, hardwood, titanium, and other synthetic materials.

What Are the Best Travel Fishing Rods?

The best travel fishing rods include the St. Croix travel rod, Daiwa Procyon travel fishing rod, and Shimano travel rod. These rods score high in terms of versatility, durability, action, power, and overall performance. 

And, of course, they are more convenient to carry for your next out-of-state fishing trip.

1. St Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod

St Croix is known for its high-quality fishing rods, and the Triumph travel spinning rod is no different.

The company uses high-quality carbon fiber material for rod sensitivity and durability . As a matter of fact, you get a five-year warranty! 

This four-piece travel rod has a medium-heavy power and fast action rating, making it ideal for catching larger fish like largemouth bass, catfish, or pike. 

Don’t worry, though. It is also available in different variations (rod length, rod power, rod action, and the number of pieces), allowing you to have a fishing rod traveling buddy to match your preferred fishing style. 

But that doesn’t mean the St. Croix is only for seasoned anglers because it’s a travel spinning rod. 

Despite being a carbon fiber rod, we don’t recommend pushing its limit. Always stick to recommended line, drag, and lure weight to prevent the pole from breaking.

See on Amazon

2. Daiwa Megaforce TeleSpin Telescopic Fishing Rod

Are you fishing in freshwater bodies on your trip? Well, this Daiwa travel rod promises an all-around fishing experience. 

Like the St. Croix, this fishing rod is made from carbon fiber. But not just any type of carbon fiber. 

Daiwa opted for an HMC+ carbon fiber blank that makes the pole ultralightweight while offering a high strength-to-weight ratio. As a matter of fact, when you cast, the fish rod will quickly resile without skipping a beat.

This Daiwa fishing spinning rod also has a telescopic design that measures 7.87 feet when expanded. Surprisingly, when you fold it down, it is only 24.80 inches – over 50% less than its retracted size!

3. Okuma Voyager VS-605-20 Travel Kit

The Okuma Voyager embodies travel because you get everything you need. 

You won’t only get the rod, but you will also receive a spinning reel, an aluminum spool, and a case. Since it has a rod and reel combo, this travel rod kit is fit for first-time use and impromptu fishing expeditions. 

You also get a tackle box for your fishing lures, hooks, and other accessories. Another extra perk is its nylon travel bag! 

The spinning reel is great, but it can loosen or come off. Therefore, always check the connection and tighten the nut before you start fishing. 

Overall, the Okuma Voyager is affordable and worth the price.

4. Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit

The Orvis Clearwater is arguably one of the best automatic fly fishing rods. 

As you may know, fly fishing is challenging, especially for a beginner. You need stability and a rod that quickly recovers the line after setting the hook. 

The Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod features a strong fighting butt and an automatic fly reel that work simultaneously to make fly fishing easier.  

Since the travel rod comes as a full kit, including the fishing rod, a fly reel, fly line and backing, and carrying rod tube, you can save money on additional gear.

The downside is Orvis Clearwater rods are more expensive than most travel fishing rods, but with the  25-year warranty , you won’t worry about replacements and repairs.

5. Fiblink Offshore 3-Piece Travel Baitcasting Rod

The Fiblink Offshore is designed for surf fishing. Although it’s only a 3-piece rod, the travel rod is long (rod length can be 7ft or 8ft long). This means you can have a wider casting distance , even from the shoreline! 

You don’t even have to break the bank to get this 3-piece baitcasting rod. 

Unfortunately, the downside to this 3-piece is the reel seat tends to loosen up occasionally. One quick fix is to tighten the reel seat. If everything else fails, you can utilize the one-year warranty from Fiblink.

6. Shimano Fishing Tiralejo Surf Rod

If you want a better quality surf fishing travel rod, this Shimano travel fishing rod is what you need. 

Unlike the Fiblink, it uses a Fuji reel seat which is 100% tougher . The seat’s design is also compatible with Shimano’s well-loved reels – the Ultegra XTD and Ultegra Ci4+. 

This fishing rod is also made from graphite to keep the weight down. Its rod action is moderate fast, allowing you to target large fish species and experiment with different lure weights. 

The only downside for Tiralejo surf rods is the high retail price, but the quality and durability make it worth it.

7. Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series Fly Fishing Rod

All fly fishing enthusiasts must try the drifter series rod from Moonshine Rod Company at least once. 

The drifter is a medium-action rod easy for beginners and seasoned pros. Furthermore, it comes as a lightweight five-piece rod that’s easy to assemble and disassemble during travel.

Generally, with a good fly reel and line, you will enjoy smooth loads and a wider cast. The wooden handle also gives extra grip to tackle a big catch. 

If you break the tip, Moonshine adds an extra rod tip in each package and offers a lifetime warranty.

8. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Many anglers refer to the Plusinno rod and reel combo as the best travel fishing rod. 

It is a premium telescopic rod that features high-quality and durable fiberglass material. You can collapse the rod to two feet and fit it in your backpack, making it ideal for travel.

As a matter of fact, we’ve named the Plussino Fishing Rod and Reel Combo the  best telescopic fishing rod ! 

If you have children, they will love this fishing rod. The rod and reel combo ensure the specifications align, ensuring the child stays in control after the hook set. 

Plusinno includes a fishing line, a pack of lures, and a carrier bag, which saves you money. However, we suggest swapping the free tackles if targetting a large and aggressive fish.

Why Invest in a Travel Fishing Rod?

Travel fishing rods are often considered flimsy and subpar compared to a standard rod, but not anymore. 

The best travel fishing rods are robust and can compete head-to-head with one-piece fishing rods. Since they are designed to be more compact and portable, they are the perfect companion for your next out-of-state fishing trip by air or road!

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