Most fishing rods today have a carbon fiber construction, which makes them extremely durable and robust when it comes to battling hard-hitting fish.
However, there is one drawback that comes with this particular approach – “bulkiness”.
Most of these traditional rods have a multi-foot length making it quite cumbersome to accommodate them in your storage area or vehicle.
Fortunately, over the years fishing companies have perfected their designs for telescopic rods.
Telescopic rods have multiple sections that can collapse into each other to provide a compact and portable design.
Moreover, the modern renditions of folding rods are as capable as their traditional counterparts.
Therefore, you can expect vigorous performance and rugged strength from these rods and go on to fish striped bass, trouts, and muskies without any worries.
Unfortunately, the market is flooded with cheap, unreliable telescopic rods and it can be hard for someone new to figure out what option they should choose.
However, worry not because down below we have compiled a list of the best telescopic fishing rods you can currently buy on the market.
Here's What's In Store For You...
- Top 8 Telescopic Fishing Rods (2022)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At a Glance
- Best Value Option: KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rods
- Best Fly Fishing Option: Sougayilang Fishing Rod
- Best Floating Guides Option: Kingswell Telescopic Fishing Rod
- Best Rod Balance: Goture Telescoping Fishing Rods
- Best Construction: KastKing Blackhawk 2 Telescopic Fishing Rods
- Best Versatile Option: PLUSINNO Fishing Rod
- Best Premium Option: Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic Fishing Rod
- Best Beginner-friendly Option: Kalex Telescopic Fishing Rod
Top 8 Telescopic Fishing Rods (2022)
1) KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rods
The KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod is a lightweight telescopic rod that comes with composite construction and an attractive price tag.
It provides excellent value for money and is a great choice for any angler.
It comes in a variety of lengths, power, and action combinations to choose from.
This telescopic fishing rod is offered in spinning and casting versions and comes in an all-black exterior with some golden lines that give it an aesthetically pleasing look.
The KastKing Blackhawk II keeps the same golf-like EVA foam handle as other rods from this brand.
The rod collapses into a smaller size and comes in six sections.
The number of line guides in the longer model is 10 for the shorter rod it is 8.
KastKing has also added a series of golden lines on either side of each section to ensure that they are aligned with each other.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Strong composite construction
- Easy to use extended and collapsed length
- Excellent versatility in terms of power, length, and action combinations
Cons
- Does not pack as small as other telescopic rods
The KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod is on our list of the best telescopic fishing rods because of its lightweight construction and excellent versatility.
The Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod is offered in a variety of combinations therefore it is a great option for both beginners and experienced anglers.
The pole of this telescopic rod has a 24-Ton carbon fiber construction, while the tip of the rod is made from a solid fiberglass core.
This construction provides the rod with the amazing strength and sensitivity that is required when catching saltwater fish.
It is offered in 8 different lengths, starting from 6’6’’ and going all the way up to 8’.
As far as the bending of the rod goes, the tip is very flexible and you might feel as if you are putting too much stress on it.
All models of this telescopic fishing rod have a collapsed length between 21.7’’ to 26.8’’.
What makes this option stand out is the rod weight of 6 ounces.
According to the model you choose you will either get 7 or 9 stainless steel line guides with ceramic inlets plus one floating guide.
These help in reducing friction which reduces the chances of a line snapping.
The KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod has a reinforced graphite seat that is resistant to corrosion which can be a problem if you do saltwater fishing.
The rod also features a hook keeper to keep your rod secured when it is closed.
The Blackhawk II features a split EVA foam handle that is very comfortable, big, and durable.
The KastKing Blackhawk II offers amazing performance if we compare it to other collapsible fishing rods.
The rod is extremely sensitive thanks to its very flexible first quarter so you can easily sense any twitches and movements made by smaller fish.
In short, this telescopic fishing rod is an excellent option for people who want a good travel rod.
It has performance similar to traditional fishing rods while being lightweight and portable, making it the best telescopic fishing rod that is currently available on the market.
2) Sougayilang Fishing Rod
The Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod is the perfect telescopic rod currently available in the market.
It has a super lightweight easy-to-handle structure thanks to its carbon fiber construction.
Since this is a beginner-friendly offering, you can easily find a rod and reel combo at an attractive price.
The 4 piece constriction of this telescopic fishing rod offers great portability and you can easily carry it around and use it as a travel rod.
To keep the fishing line from getting damaged the rod is equipped with high-grade chromed stainless steel guide rings that can handle high-stress situations such as tackling large fish.
This telescopic rod stands out because it is available in a fly fishing rod and reel combo kit, so if you buy one, it will have almost everything in the box.
Therefore if you are someone who wants a rod that is portable and travel-friendly then you should buy this telescopic fishing rod and reel combo to have a complete package.
Pros
- Carbon fiber construction makes it lightweight
- Offers great portability
- Fixed reel reduces chances of avoiding loose swing
Cons
- Complains about build quality
The Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod is one of the best telescopic rods because of its lightweight design that is ideal for fly fishing and its cheap price.
Moreover, the Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod has several rod and reel combos that offer great value for your money.
The line weight rating for the fishing reel of this rod is 5 / 6 wt and it has a diameter of 3.35 inches.
With an approximate weight of 5.7 oz and a die-cast aluminum construction, the reel provides the perfect balance to the rod.
You can also interchange it to the left or right-hand setting.
For smooth and immediate drag management, the rod uses a one-way clutch bearing.
The rod boasts a 4 piece design that is best for people who like to keep their fishing gear in the trunk of their car.
When pieced together the Sougayilang fishing rod is almost 9 feet long and has a carbon fiber construction.
It offers the right amount of power and flexibility when it comes to fly fishing and gives a gentle touch down to your fly.
The gentle touchdown allows your fly to look natural and it does not spook out the fish that are under the water.
You can expect fantastic handling and non-slipping experience even in harsh conditions, thanks to the use of an A-grade cork grip.
The wooden texture of the solid aluminum reel seat gives it a great look.
Moreover, since it is a fixed reel, it helps in reducing the loose swing phenomenon in fishing and brings stability to the rod.
If we compare the Sougayilang Telescopic Fishing Rod with other available telescopic rods it is the best for fly fishing.
Moreover, it offers excellent performance and decent build quality.
They are lightweight and offer great usability to anglers.
Although this is an excellent rod, you might find certain shortcomings in the build of this rod that can be overlooked due to its price
We will recommend this fishing rod to people who have recently entered into angling.
The rod and reel combo kit by Sougayilang will surely be a great addition to your fishing gear.
3) Kingswell Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Kingswell Telescopic Fishing Rod and reel combo is a great offering for anglers of all skill levels.
This collapsible fishing rod comes with a size 3000 spinning reel that is made from premium quality materials.
Kingswell telescopic fishing pole has a length of 6ft 9 inches when it is fully extended and it is constructed from Japanese 24/30 ultra-high-density carbon fiber.
Making it strong and durable for use in high-stress situations.
Moreover, it collapses down to 22 inches for easy traveling and storage.
The 3000-size fishing reel by Kingswell can easily handle casting lures and weight up to 1oz.
Kingswell Telescopic Fishing Rod is among the best collapsible fishing poles out there because of its great versatility and performance.
Pros
- Perfect fishing rod and reel combo for lagoons, headwater streams, springs, ditches, flushes, small lakes, and ponds
- It is easy to use and very portable
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- The telescopic fishing pole is a bit short
- Fishing reel not for larger fish
The Kingswell Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is the best telescopic fishing rod that you can currently buy because it is user-friendly and an amazing option for beginners.
The rod and reel combos from Kingswell provide an all-in-one solution for your traveling needs.
Since it comes with a size 3000 spinning reel, it is recommended to use an 8-15lbs rating line.
The Kingswell S3000 reel features an aluminum body, 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings, and a 5.2:1 gear ratio.
The fishing reel is capable of handling stress upwards of 15lbs, making it a perfect choice for fishing trout, bass, and salmon that are under 20lbs.
The floating line guides system allows for smoother casting and retrieval.
The telescopic fishing rod features 5 fixed guides and 3 floating guides that reduce line friction upon casting allowing for maximum casting distance.
It also comes with markings that allow you to assemble it quickly without any hassles.
The only drawback of this particular rod is that the fishing reel combo is not larger fish.
In the end, you can align the rod guides and sections securely and fish with confidence.
In short, the Kingswell telescopic rod is a great choice for anyone who wants to fish in tight places such as lagoons, headwater streams, springs, ditches, flushes, small lakes, and ponds.
It has great sensitivity and easily handles medium-sized fish.
4) Goture Telescoping Fishing Rods
The Goture Telescopic Fishing Rod offers a premium build quality and a versatile fishing experience thanks to the different sizes it is offered in.
The Goture Telescoping Fishing Rod and Reel Combo come with an aluminum reel and a fiberglass pole that can easily handle larger fish.
This collapsible fishing rod has great portability and easily fits inside the trunk of the car.
It also provides excellent handling thanks to the EVA foam handle, which makes it slip-resistant.
What makes it stand out is that you can use this telescopic rod for multiple applications and it is great for bass fishing.
Pros
- It is flexible and elastic
- It has a lightweight
Cons
- Too slim
The Goture Telescoping Fishing Rod is on our list of the best telescopic fishing rod because of its lightweight and powerful characteristics.
It provides the perfect balance between power and sensitivity that you can find in any compact fishing rod.
This rod allows you to travel with your rod to all of your favorite spots without any inconvenience.
It comes in a variety of lengths so you can choose one according to the type of fishing you are into.
The rod has Braiding X Carbon fiber braiding technology construction that provides it with increased strength and reliability.
The blank provides excellent casting range and power play characteristics without the risk of rod breakage.
The rod also has an extended handle grip that provides a comfortable and ergonomic hold.
Your reel will be firmly fixed thanks to the Metal Reel Seat, and it will not wobble while you are casting.
The rod is intended for fishing on large rivers and lakes, even with salt water.
This fishing rod and reel combo is an excellent choice for anyone that is looking for a quality fishing rod and a very smooth and well-made reel.
The rod uses a special coating to protect it from corrosion and other similar damage that lesser fishing rods might be susceptible to.
Although most telescopic fishing rods are a budget option, it is not bad to have them protected from corrosion and other environmental elements.
This telescopic rod is designed with extreme efficiency, therefore you will not feel any fatigue after using it in battles.
The one-way clutch reel provides a smooth boat fishing experience making it one of the best telescoping fishing rods.
The largest size for this rod is 3.6 meters and the smallest size is 2.1 meters, the former makes it quite a long rod.
The rod collapses into a much smaller, easy-to-carry size and you don’t need any additional equipment to contain it once collapsed.
It is a very convenient collapsible fishing rod that can come in handy for any fishermen.
This telescoping rod can be your backup option if you are a pro because it offers great utility and requires minimal investment.
So even if things go south there is not much to lose.
It is the best telescopic rod in terms of overall utility and application, moreover, it has a decent build quality that provides tons of value.
In short, if you want a dependable collapsible fishing pole then this is the best option for you.
It has the same level of quality as some of the best telescoping fishing rods.
5) KastKing Blackhawk 2 Telescopic Fishing Rods
When it comes to lightweight portable fishing rods, the KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod is a well-known name.
These retractable fishing rods come with composite construction and an affordable price tag.
Just like most telescopic rods, these are also offered in a variety of lengths, power, and action combinations.
They provide excellent value for money and are a great choice for any angler.
As compared to a traditional fishing rod this rod has a few differences, otherwise, it offers the same utility and performance.
You can find these telescopic fishing poles in spinning and casting versions just like traditional rods.
They come with an all-black exterior with some golden lines that give it an aesthetically pleasing look.
The KastKing Blackhawk II keeps the same golf-like EVA foam handle as other traditional rods from this brand.
It comes with a varying number of stainless steel line guides, depending on the model you choose you will get 8 or 10 guides.
KastKing has also added a series of golden lines on either side of each section to ensure that the fishing pole is perfectly aligned.
Pros
- Lightweight rod
- Easy to use extended and collapsed length
- Strong composite construction
- Excellent versatility in terms of power, length, and action combinations
Cons
- Not as portable as other telescoping rods
The KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod is the best telescopic rod because it has a lightweight design and versatile performance.
It is the best telescopic fishing rod for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Moreover, it is offered in a variety of combinations which makes it perfect for both newcomers and experienced anglers.
This rod has a 24-ton high-density carbon fiber construction and unlike other carbon fiber rods, it has a solid fiberglass tip.
As far as the bending of the rod goes, the tip is very flexible and sensitive so you might feel as if you are putting too much stress on it.
It is offered in 8 different lengths, starting from 6’6’’ and going all the way up to 8’.
According to the model you choose you will either get 7 or 9 stainless steel guides with ceramic inlets plus one floating guide.
These help in reducing friction which reduces the chances of a line snapping.
It comes with a hook keeper so your rod is secure while you are on the go.
The KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic fishing rod has a reinforced graphite reel seat that is resistant to corrosion.
To provide you with a comfortable, big, and durable handling position this light rod comes with an EVA handle.
The performance and accuracy provided by the KastKing Blackhawk II make it one of the best telescopic fishing rods out there and bring it to par with traditional rods
The rod is extremely sensitive thanks to its very flexible first quarter so you can easily sense any twitches and movements made by smaller fish.
Overall, the KastKing Blackhawk II is a great option for people who want excellent performance as well as the convenience of a portable rod.
6) PLUSINNO Fishing Rod
The PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo are one of the best offerings you can find out there.
This fishing rod and reel combo is an all-in-one package for your fishing gear because it comes packed with performance and utility.
Unlike a traditional rod, the PLUSINNO telescopic fishing rod comes with multiple tubular sections that slide into one another.
This provides the rod with portability and saves space in your fishing kit.
In short, if you want a rod that can lie around in the trunk of your car without taking up much space, you should definitely go for the PLUSINNO telescopic fishing rod.
It offers great utility for long fishing trips and is one of the best durable rods out there.
Pros
- Available In Multiple Sizes
- Rod And Reel Combo
- Great Build Quality
Cons
- Some Models Have Faults
The PULSINNO rod and reel combo are on our list of the best telescopic fishing rods because of its usability and multiple applications
It is also the best spinning rod that you can find with a telescopic design.
The PLUSINNO telescopic fishing rod and reel combo provides excellent build quality and a smooth, efficient reeling process.
The HA 3000 reel combined with a stainless steel reel seat provides a sturdy build that will keep you confident while you catch fish.
PLUSSINNO is known for making affordable fishing gear.
This spinning rod provides a compact and portable design that does not take much room and is convenient to carry around.
The rod can go from its full length of 7 feet to a collapsed length of 20 inches in a matter of seconds making it very easy to use.
The rod comes with stainless steel guides for your line, giving it a smoother and easier outlet for catching fish more easily.
These guides make this spinning telescopic rod best for saltwater fishing.
You can choose from three colors- silver, gold, and a mixture of both.
The rod uses fiberglass construction for strength and durability, this also makes it a popular option among the angling community.
It is also good for long-distance casting because of its flexibility and nimbleness and delivers satisfactory hook setting performance.
The rod also offers excellent feedback when fishing thanks to its flexibility and medium to moderate action.
These telescopic spinning rods by PLUSINNO are great for use with treble hooks, crankbaits, and topwater lures.
To provide enhanced capability while handling, the rod features a longer handle as compared to other similar options.
The handle is constructed using EVA material so it is extremely soft and comfortable to grip and hold.
The PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is an extremely versatile fishing option.
It is one of the best telescopic fishing rods out there in terms of utility and will compliment your fishing gear.
7) Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic Fishing Rod is a premium option among collapsible fishing rods.
This high quality fishing rod offers the same performance as a traditional rod.
It is packed with premium features such as oversized cork, EVA foam handles, titanium oxide line guides, and graphite backbone.
It is a suitable option for pro anglers who want the best performance but also a portable travel-friendly rod.
Although it is a little expensive as compared to other telescopic fishing poles, it provides a far better experience when battling large fish.
This saltwater rod will go on to pay itself many times over therefore, its hefty price tag can be overlooked.
Pros
- Light and strong construction
- Comfortable handling positions
- Comes with a protective case
Cons
- Hefty price tag
The Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic fishing rod is the best telescopic fishing rod when it comes to premium features and award-winning performance.
It comes with an all-black exterior and golden engravings that provides it with a bold and aesthetic look.
The Daiwa Megaforce Tele spin comes at six different lengths, 6.89 to 11.81 feet, and five casting weights.
The latter refers to the hooks, lures, and sinkers that are compatible with the rod.
The carbon fiber used in the construction of Daiwa telescopic rods has HMC shards.
The high modulus carbon(HMC) provides it with the strength to handle stress and tension.
Depending on the model you choose for yourself, the rod will come with 4 to 6 line guides.
The titanium oxide line guides are remarkably smooth, which decreases the friction between the line and the ring.
Titanium oxide guides make it the best rod for using in saltwater
Just like the pole, the reel seat has a strong graphite construction. And, like most rods, you can adjust it to accommodate different spinning reels.
Telescopic fishing rods tend to cut down on the handle length but the Daiwa Megaforce Telespin does not.
The handle area in the Daiwa Megaforce Tele spin is huge which can accommodate both hands and grants more support to them.
Moreover, the EVA foam provides best-in-class comfort and durability.
This might sound unusual, but this particular rod does not have any power or action ratings provided by the company.
It only comes with a casting weight rating, which varies from 0.25 to 10.58 ounces.
The higher rating of this rod makes it suitable for heavier loads.
The Daiwa Telescopic fishing rod is very strong and durable, moreover, its line guides help in reducing friction to enhance casting distance.
The rod has a pretty decent parabolic bend and has no awkward lines.
The rod feels very agile in the hands and it will not cause arm fatigue if used for extended durations.
The oversized handles are great for long casts and give you more power to land the fish.
In short, the Daiwa Megaforce is the best rod in terms of premium features and long-term durability.
8) Kalex Telescopic Fishing Rod
The Kalex XT2 Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo provide quality and durability at a reasonable price.
It comes in a variety of lengths ranging from 5.6 feet to 10 feet and has a carbon composite blank construction that provides it with enough backbone to catch fish.
It also sports stainless steel guides and an EVA handle which add to its overall reliability and robustness.
When casting with the Kalex, you will have no idea you’re fishing with such an inexpensive rod.
The use of aluminum oxide inserts guides provides smoothness, distance, and consistency with each cast.
Moreover, the extremely low price points make it an attractive option for people who are just starting their fishing journey.
Pros
- Very convenient and compact design
- EVA contoured rear grip
- Light body and rings
Cons
- The high guide might interfere with the fishing line
The Kalex Fishing Rod is the best telescopic fishing rod when it comes to compactness.
Moreover, the Kalex fishing rod and reel combo provide excellent utility to your fishing gear needs.
The rod has an aluminum reel seat with steel cushioned hoods for strength and durability.
The use of a tip cover provides protection to the rod while it is not being used.
Furthermore, the fishing rod and reel combo give you the ease to be ever ready for a fishing session.
You can carry it with you wherever you go, making it a perfect option for enthusiasts who are crazy about fishing.
This spinning rod belongs to the budget category and can be used to fish different types of lures and baits.
These include wobblers, spinners, and jigs.
The rod is made of high modulus graphite which makes It lightweight, but capable of withstanding fairly high loads and has excellent sensory characteristics.
For the smooth exit of the fishing line and to prevent the occurrence of overflows the rod uses lightweight rings with inserts.
The lightweight body of the rod with fast action allows for very precise casting and demonstrates excellent sensitivity.
The reel seat completes the comfortable grip that rests comfortably in the hand and provides a stable handling position for a rod.
In conclusion, if you want a budget-friendly well-balanced telescopic rod then you should choose the Kalex Telescopic rod.
It provides a decent level of performance while being the most compact telescopic rod on the market.
It is also a good option for beginners and kids, who want to try fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I choose the best telescopic fishing rod for myself?
Choosing the right telescopic fishing rod can be a little tricky but if you are aware of your needs you can easily choose the right option. You will need to take into account several things such as the material, weight, and the number of sections. The most important factor when it comes to choosing a telescopic fishing rod over a traditional rod is convenience, the telescopic fishing rod you are choosing should be compact, lightweight, and easy to assemble/disassemble.
Is a telescopic rod worth it?
Yes, a telescopic rod is a great option because it caters to the needs of both beginners and pro anglers. These rods are also great for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. There is a common misconception that telescopic rods are only for lightweight fishing but this is not true because they can perform very well against hard-hitting fish. In the past, their reputation struggled because of flimsy construction techniques but manufacturers have significantly improved their quality in recent times.
Are telescopic rods weak?
The answer to this question is not so simple because each telescopic rod has a different construction and build quality. Most cheap telescopic rods will struggle with quality issues, that is why it is recommended to go with a reputable option that has premium features. Moreover, keep in mind the type of fish you want to catch, then choose the rod action and power accordingly.