Inshore fishing is one of the most accessible forms of fishing for most people.
For one, it doesn’t need big, expensive gears like boats and kayaks.
It’s also more appealing to beginners because they don’t need to go out far into the deep sea just to enjoy the sport.
Nevertheless, fishing inshore doesn’t mean it’s basic — plenty of mastery is still required while fishing inshore, and you still need the best gear if you want to perform at your peak.
Thus, you need to pick the best inshore spinning rods that your money can buy.
There are plenty of inshore fishing rods in the market, and it’s up to you to pick the one best suited for your needs.
In this article, we present to you the best inshore spinning fishing rods to enhance your inshore spinning game.
Here's What's In Store For You...
- Top 9 Inshore Spinning Rods of 2022
- 1) Best Overall: Fenwick HMG Inshore Spinning Fishing Rod
- 2) Second-best Overall: Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rods
- 3) Best for Beginners: Hurricane Calico Jack Inshore Spinning Rod
- 4) Most Budget-Friendly: Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
- 5) Most Heavy-duty Rod: Hurricane Redbone
- 6) Most Versatile: Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod
- 7) Best Components: Omen Green Spinning Fishing Rods
- 8) Best Basics: Temple Fork Gary’s Inshore Rods
- 9) Most Premium Pick: St. Croix Rods Mojo Salt Conventional Rod
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At a Glance
- Best Overall: Fenwick HMG Inshore Fishing Rod
- Second-best Overall: Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rods
- Best for Beginners: Hurricane Calico Jack Inshore Rod
- Most Budget-Friendly: Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
- Most Heavy-duty Rod: Hurricane Redbone Inshore Rod
- Most Versatile: Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod
- Best Components: Omen Green Spinning Fishing Rods
- Best Basics: Temple Fork Gary’s Inshore Rods
- Most Premium Pick: St. Croix Rods Mojo Salt Conventional Rod
Top 9 Inshore Spinning Rods of 2022
1) Best Overall: Fenwick HMG Inshore Spinning Fishing Rod
Among all the rest, the Fenwick HMG Inshore Fishing Rod has proven itself to be the best inshore spinning rod because of its superb build quality and top-notch performance, balanced with its accessible price.
Key Features
- Length: 7’6”
- Material: 30 Ton Graphite
- Power: Medium
- Action: Fast
- Line Weight: 6 to 12 lb
- Lure Weight: 1/16 to 5/8 oz
Pros
- Extra durable
- Casts for a mile
- Accessible pricing
- Handle made with AAA cork grip
Cons
- Finicky to fit reels with
- Rod action can be a little too much
Perfectly balanced between quality and affordability, the Fenwick HMG Inshore Spinning Fishing Rod is ideal for many inshore anglers.
The blank is made with 30-ton, high-modulus graphite, creating a light yet solid rod weight that other features can rely on.
It also utilizes Fenwick’s Carbon Binding technology, a layer of spiraling carbon thread to add to the strength, at only little cost to weight.
As a result, this features excellent casting performance and a very sturdy blank, enough to fight even the meanest inshore fish.
Its components are also top-notch.
This medium power rod features Fuji Alconite guides.
Understated yet robust, these guides are made with deep-set stainless steel frames and alconite inserts, creating a solid group of components that won’t give up on any line you throw.
It also has a superb Sea-Guide Fuji reel seat; an extra-secure graphite reel seat featuring soft touch and double-locking features keeps your spinning reel firmly right where it should be.
The handle is also wrapped with AAA-grade cork to keep you comfortable while you throw lures around all day.
Lastly, all of these come at a solid mid-100 dollar price range.
This is quite affordable, considering the build quality and performance that this bad boy puts out.
Although for some reason, the reel seat can be selective with the sizes of the reels.
The ideal dimensions for this rod aren’t listed anywhere as well.
Thus, if you want to be safe, you’d better buy this one in person.
Lastly, this lineup of rods for inshore fishing could bend a little too much, although it’s a pretty nitpicky factor in the overall review.
2) Second-best Overall: Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rods
For those looking for a reliable and affordable workhorse inshore fishing rod, the Penn Battalion Inshore Spinning Rod is the go-to of many seasoned anglers.
Key Features
- Length: 7’
- Material: High modulus graphite
- Power: Medium-Heavy
- Action: Fast
- Line Weight: 12 to 20 lb
- Lure Weight: 1/2 to 1 1/2 oz
Pros
- Strong and sensitive
- Wide variety and setups
- Reinforced blank construction
- Premium Fuji reel seat and guides
- Handles catch above its rated line weight
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Might be a little too stiff for some
Price effective yet still high-end and functional; the Penn Batallion Inshore Spinning Rods are made to accommodate every kind of inshore angler.
The foundation of the inshore fishing rod setup is the highly durable and flexible blank.
The blank is made with high modulus graphite and is further reinforced with spiraling carbon wraps on the interior, and longitudinal carbon fiber wraps on the exterior.
This creates a highly durable rod that still remains sensitive, even as it can catch fishes above its rated line weight.
It’s lightweight as well and has different handle setups for your comfort.
This means that you can fish with this lightweight yet strong rod all day with minimal fatigue and plenty of flexibility left in your hands to boot because of the comfortable handles.
This fast action rod also has on-point components: it features Fuji aluminum oxide guides and a solid Fuji reel seat.
Moreover, this solid formula allows Penn to create a wide variety of rods.
One of the main draws of the Battalion Inshore Fishing Rods is that there are so many variations you can choose from.
There are rods with different power ratings (medium-light rods, heavy, etc.,) action, rod handle type, and material.
You can even get longer and shorter rods, depending on your preferences.
Every kind of inshore angler can find something for them among this excellent lineup.
However, it’s not as lightweight as other rods on this list, and some might prefer a much lighter setup.
Some anglers might also find the blank a little stiffer than others, although the setup remains robust, and there are plenty of other varieties to choose from anyway.
3) Best for Beginners: Hurricane Calico Jack Inshore Spinning Rod
Flashy and attractive, the Hurricane Calico Jack Inshore Rod still presents an excellent performance at an accessible price point for those just getting into the hobby.
Key Features
- Length: 7’6”
- Material: IM7 Graphite
- Power: Medium
- Action: Medium
- Line Weight:
- Lure Weight:
Pros
- Very accessible price
- Comfortable cork handle
- Powerful action and responsive tip
- Outstanding warranty and customer service
Cons
- Fragile construction
The Hurricane Calico Jack Inshore Rod is made to be an all-around inshore fishing rod that you can recommend to newcomers because of its decent quality rod at an excellent price point.
The rod has an attractive-looking glossy black finish, which doesn’t just catch the eye but also protects the blank material from the elements.
Its blank is made with IM7 graphite, which means that its graphite material will stand up to high strains and flex.
The blank is made especially tapered to have an extra responsive tip. It will undoubtedly be very sensitive no matter what kind of inshore fishing you do with it.
It also has the rod power to reel fishes within its rated line weight, whether as a salt or freshwater rod.
The rod also has a particularly excellent cork handle: it has a smooth, comfortable, and consistent feel that will undoubtedly carry you through countless hours of fishing inshore.
At more or less $50, you would be hard-pressed to find other inshore-specific spinning rods with the same quality as this.
The lower price does come with a few sacrifices, though.
For one, the rod doesn’t hold up to fishes above its rated line weight, and it snaps easily when used for them.
However, the company has an equally-awesome customer service with a solid replacement policy.
If it breaks before it’s due, just contact the shop, and they will replace your unit with a new one.
4) Most Budget-Friendly: Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
Dependability is the name of the game when it comes to the Ugly Stik Elite.
It’s durable, versatile, and easily affordable, making it the best choice for those looking to maximize every dollar they spend on their fishing rods.
Key Features
- Length: 7′
- Material: Stainless steel and graphite
- Power: Medium-Heavy
- Action: Extra Fast
- Line Weight: 8 to 17 lbs.
- Lure Weight: 1/4 to 3/4 oz.
Pros
- Versatile application
- Highly cost-effective
- Premium components
- Highly durable construction
Cons
- Not specific to inshore fishing
- It can be a little heavy to some
Ugly Stik rods have proven themselves to be deservingly listed here as one of the most affordable inshore fishing rods around.
The Ugly Stik Elite is the best example of that.
This rod has a blank made with Ugly Stik’s signature stainless steel mixed with graphite to make it one of the most durable rods around.
Add to that the fact that the entire length of the rod is made with one piece of blank, you get a highly durable offering with plenty of power and responsivity.
It also boasts premium components.
The Ugly Stik Elite features virtually indestructible ugly Tuff one-piece durable stainless steel guides that can be outfitted with braided lines for more power and still retain smooth flow when casting or retrieving.
It also features Ugly Stik’s proprietary Clear Tip technology to create a more responsive tip when jigging or setting a hook.
The handle is also designed to be flexible and adapt to the angler’s needs.
Being a little bit shorter than most inshore rods, the Ugly Stik Elite is perfect for finesse maneuvers and smaller fish, although it might not be as comfortable if you want to tuck the handle under your arm.
Of course, its best feature is its highly cost-effective price.
Plus, if you’re not a fan of the power, action, and length, there are other configurations to choose from at the same price level.
This much functionality, quality, and variability are difficult to beat at more or less 50 dollars.
However, some anglers might not appreciate that this rod isn’t specifically made to be an inshore fishing rod.
Thus, it has a shorter overall length (7-foot max than others that can go up to 8’) and a shorter cork handle.
Nevertheless, the performance will be about the same, as this rod is designed to be versatile.
The rod also has other varieties, such as light and medium-light power, line ratings, and more.
Lastly, it might also be a little heavy because of the material.
5) Most Heavy-duty Rod: Hurricane Redbone
If you’re gearing up for the catch of your life, the extra heavy-duty Hurricane Redbone Inshore Spinning Rod should be first on your list of essential equipment.
Key Features
- Length: 8’
- Material: IM7 high modulus graphite
- Power: Heavy
- Action: Moderate
- Line Weight: 17 to 40 lb
- Lure Weight: 1 to 3 oz
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Highly responsive
- Handle cover choices
- Generates excellent power
- Offers 8-foot H and EH configurations
Cons
- Balance might be slightly off
If you want to net your largest catch yet, you need the equipment to match, and the Redbone rods offer you just the kind of performance you need when aiming for the best.
The Redbone Inshore Spinning Rod by Hurricane is made with IM7 high-modulus graphite, giving this reel the backbone it needs to net fishes even upwards of its already-capable rated line.
It also has heavy-duty components to match.
It has Fuji stainless steel guides, an exposed-blank reel seat made of premium graphite, a high-quality cork grip, and even a hook keeper to keep your setup nice and tidy.
Despite being an 8-foot rod with its grueling power, it remains lightweight and surprisingly maneuverable.
The sturdy graphite material also results in a remarkably sensitive blank that can detect even the slightest feedback.
As a result, this rod equips you with the capability to reel in the largest game fish that you’ve ever had.
To top it all off, this rod also offers a lifetime warranty to ensure your continued enjoyment of this excellent product.
Nevertheless, it does have a few draws — one of them is that the balance might be a little off.
However, that much is to be expected from the length and the weight rating, which might not be ideal for beginner inshore anglers.
6) Most Versatile: Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod
Shimano has been a renowned maker of premium-quality fishing gear, and they prove that in the Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod.
Key Features
- Length: 7’4”
- Material: High modulus graphite
- Power: Medium
- Action: Moderate Fast
- Line Weight: 6 to 15 lb
- Lure Weight: 1/4 to3/4 oz
Pros
- Attractive finish
- Very cost-effective rod
- Strong and lightweight
- Highly versatile application
- Convenient grip type
Cons
- A little expensive compared to others
- Not specifically made for inshore fishing applications
Shimano proves that they deserve a prominent spot in the fishing industry with the high-end offering they present with the Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod.
This medium power rod is made with high-modulus graphite. But not just that — it’s also reinforced with Shimano’s Power X and Spiral X technology.
This design means that the rod features crosswise carbon wraps that meet to create an X shape all over the blank.
This has the effect of reinforcing the blank’s integrity, making it stronger and less prone to blank twisting.
It also has the added effect of creating a flashy patterned blank that will surely draw admiring glances.
The blank construction also has the effect of being extra sensitive and responsive. The rod tip is also expressly made to be firm and solid.
Despite the high power ratings, it’s not stiff and even has a very whippy casting performance that launches even heavy lures excellently.
Because of these factors, the Shimano Teramar South East Spinning Rod can be used for many different fishing applications — not even necessarily exclusive to inshore fishing.
You can use this rod for inshore fishing, jig fishing, throwing jerk bait, live bait, sight fishing, and more.
The excellent design and capable performance ensure that you have the best experience all the while. It’s also one of the best rods for redfish and speckled trout.
Additionally, this great rod features premium components.
It has Fuji guides and reel seat, high quality rod cork, with a split-type handle.
Though, this rod isn’t just designed explicitly for inshore fishing.
More than that, it could also be a little expensive for some anglers, although they surely won’t have any complaints about the quality.
7) Best Components: Omen Green Spinning Fishing Rods
The Omen Green Spinning Rods are made to be premium throughout, with components specifically designed to cater to a specific high-end fishing experience epitomized by the 13 Fishing brand.
Key Features
- Length: 7’7”
- Material: 30 Ton PVG Graphite
- Power: Medium
- Action: Fast
- Line Weight: 8 to 15 lb
- Lure Weight: 1/8 to 3/8 oz
Pros
- Lightweight and strong
- Contoured cork handles
- Well-designed components
- Equipped with Omen Green Technologies
Cons
- Expensive
- Might not be very durable
The 13 Fishing experience features premium blank and components at a mid-range price.
This rod is made entirely with Japanese PVG30T 30-ton PVG graphite, which is comfortably lightweight.
Yet, it sports a certain rigidity and power ideal for even the bigger inshore catches you might encounter on your fishing trip.
The best feature of this rod lies in its components specifically designed for this rod.
The Omen Green Spinning Rod lineup features an Evolve Soft Touch Engage Reel Seat.
This design is unique from 13 Fishing and features a completely cork-covered reel seat that can integrate anywhere from 1000 to 5000 reel sizes depending on the model.
Its integration means that you won’t have any edges or seams sticking out from your reel on the handle.
Moreover, it also features super-sturdy stainless steel guides designed to withstand the relentless Florida winds.
It’s matte-coated to improve aesthetics (which it does) and further protect the guides from the elements.
Lastly, it also features their proprietary Evolve Snagless Hook Keeper design.
The rod lineup is priced mid-range, starting from a hundred dollars and moving up from there depending on the model.
Not ideal if you want to save.
Also, it’s not the most durable option because it is made entirely of graphite.
Be careful not to nick the rod blanks, as these will likely break easily on your next cast if you do so.
8) Best Basics: Temple Fork Gary’s Inshore Rods
If you want a solid inshore rod that is great at what it’s supposed to do without the complicated bells and whistles of other choices on this list, get the Temple Fork Gary’s Inshore Rods.
Key Features
- Length: 7’
- Material:
- Power: Medium
- Action: Fast
- Line Weight: 8 to 16 lb
- Lure Weight: 1/4 to 3/4 oz
Pros
- Excellent cork grip
- Versatile and flexible
- Premium-quality construction
- High-power and very lightweight
Cons
- High-end price point
- Longer butt isn’t suitable for casting
- Basic hook keeper can be inconvenient
The TFO Gary Inshore Rod is designed to be a high-power, high-end rod made for various inshore applications.
This rod boasts a sturdy blank with an attractive and protective aqua-blue finish that’s sure to catch the attention of your fishing buddies.
Such a rod was made to execute a wide variety of fishing applications. It’s strong and lightweight, making for an easier cast and more powerful fights.
This rod is specifically made for inshore saltwater fishing, but this lineup can also serve as good freshwater rods.
Its versatility also allows you to fish along the estuary, boat, and the deep sea. Its construction ensures that it’s good as a light bait rod or a power fishing rod.
As expected of high-end constructions, this rod features excellent components and peripherals.
It has high-quality Fuji guides with Alconite inserts.
The handle comes wrapped with high-quality and durable cork — it won’t crack with long hours of fishing under the sun.
However, it does have its drawbacks.
For one, the pricing is on the higher end. You can get a comparable level of quality for less price with other rods on the list.
The rod itself also features a longer butt than usual.
Although the handle is more comfortable and there’s more room for a two-hand grip, it also makes the rod length a little shorter to accommodate the handle.
It’s also not ideal for high casting frequency, as you’re less accurate and might tire more easily.
Nevertheless, if you want the best inshore saltwater fishing rods, look no further than this offering from Temple Fork Gary.
9) Most Premium Pick: St. Croix Rods Mojo Salt Conventional Rod
If quality is what you’re after and you don’t mind paying for it, look no more than the trusted classic St. Croix Rods Mojo Salt Conventional Rod.
Key Features
- Length: 7’6”
- Material: SCII carbon and S-glass
- Power: Medium-Heavy
- Action: Moderate Fast
- Line Weight: 30 to 50 lb Mono and 40 to 65 lb Braid
- Lure Weight:
Pros
- Lightweight
- Very sensitive rod
- High-quality St. Croix tech.
- Heavy-duty line and power rating
- Highly protective and sturdy construction
Cons
- Expensive
Made to last, the St. Croix Rods Mojo Salt Conventional Rod is what most anglers need to have if they decide to specialize in inshore fishing.
Its made with premium SCII carbon to achieve signature St. Croix power without compromising the rod’s weight.
This rod is reinforced by S-glass material and further strengthened by the Integrated Poly Curve technology (IPC) and Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ART).
Thus, it’s sure to have the maximum power output possible and even a superior flex.
This provides plenty of backbone for you to haul in the biggest fishes that you can find on your coastal adventures.
But a rod won’t feel premium without high-end components, and this St. Croix offering presents just that.
First off, it features a highly protective yet still attractive double coat of Flex-Coat slow cure.
It features Fuji aluminum oxide guides for a sleek, anti-tangle movement even in the most challenging winds and sturdy stainless steel frames.
The St. Croix Mojo also has a Kigan hook-keeper, premium EVA handles, and a Fuji DPS reel seat.
This superior construction by St. Croix almost surely outperforms any other inshore rods on this list — but that’s only if you’re willing to pay the price.
This rod also has a price that goes upwards of 200 dollars.
Beginners and enthusiasts might not be willing to spend such an amount for a set of minor benefits that will only be pronounced for experienced anglers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an inshore spinning rod?
An inshore spinning rod is made to be used for fishing on the shore, towards the surf. Inshore fishing rods have the general characteristic of being longer than typical spinning rods, with action towards the rod's tip (moderate to fast). They also tend to be more powerful than rods for offshore fishing.
There are many kinds of these rods you can get — fiberglass rods and graphite rods in any configuration. They also have plenty of different features, advantages, and disadvantages. The fiberglass rod, for example, is very sturdy but adds plenty of weight. For your best reference in buying inshore rods, we’ve talked about the best inshore fishing rods in this article.
What are the best inshore saltwater spinning rods for the money?
There are so many kinds of inshore spinning rods that you can buy depending on your preferences and needs. However, the best inshore fishing rods for the money would have to be those that balance functionality and price.
Thus, we have on our list two of the best budget-friendly inshore rods around: the Fenwick HMG Inshore Spinning Fishing Rod and the Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod. These two saltwater rods cost less than a hundred dollars and perform just as great as the more expensive choices on the list.
What is the best inshore fishing rod for redfish?
The Shimano Tremar Southeast Spinning Rod is the best inshore fishing rod when it comes to versatility; you can use a wide variety of techniques that you would be hard-pressed to execute with other rods. Thus, it should come as no surprise that it's also one of the best inshore rods for redfish.