Imagine this: you’re out on the water, the sun is warm, and you’re waiting for that telltale tug on your line. But sometimes, that tug never comes, or worse, you miss a fight because your gear just isn’t up to the task. Choosing the right rod for trolling walleye can feel like a puzzle. There are so many choices, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want a rod that bends just right, feels comfortable in your hands, and helps you land those prized walleye.
This is where we come in. We understand the frustration of having the wrong equipment. It can turn a great fishing trip into a disappointing one. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of rods for trolling walleye. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. You’ll learn about different rod types, what makes them great for trolling, and how to pick the perfect one for your fishing adventures. Get ready to upgrade your trolling game!
Our Top 5 Rods For Trolling Walleye Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rods For Trolling Walleye Detailed Reviews
1. Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo
Rating: 8.7/10
The Ugly Stik 7’6” Walleye Round Fishing Rod and Reel Walleye Combo is built tough for walleye anglers. This combo combines the legendary durability of Ugly Stik with a smooth-casting conventional reel, making it a solid choice for chasing those prized walleye. It’s designed to handle the fight and bring your catch to the boat.
What We Like:
- Ugly Tech construction with graphite and fiberglass makes the rod both strong and sensitive.
- The Clear Tip design adds extra strength and allows you to feel even the smallest bites.
- The Size 20 conventional reel has a 2 ball bearing system for smooth casting and retrieving.
- It features an on/off bait clicker, which is helpful when letting line out or when a fish is taking the bait.
- The EVA handle provides a comfortable and durable grip.
- A rubber rod butt makes bracing the rod more comfortable.
- The Star Drag system lets you control the fight with a max drag of 15lb.
- It comes with a 7-year warranty on the rod, showing great confidence in its build.
What Could Be Improved:
- The reel is a conventional reel, which some anglers might find takes a bit more practice to master compared to spinning reels.
- The right handle position means it’s not ideal for left-handed anglers without switching the handle.
This Ugly Stik combo offers a great balance of toughness and performance for walleye fishing. It’s a dependable setup that will help you enjoy your time on the water.
2. Dead Eye Classic Technique Specific Walleye Trolling and Jigging Rods
Rating: 9.2/10
The Dead Eye Classic Technique Specific Walleye Trolling and Jigging Rods, DEC-S-602MHFTa, is built for serious walleye anglers. This rod is designed for two key techniques: trolling and jigging. It helps you feel every bite and control your lure with precision.
What We Like:
- Fast and Responsive Jigging: The 24-ton carbon blanks make these jigging rods super fast and responsive. You can feel even the lightest nibbles.
- UFR-1 Tip Technology: The Ultimate Flex Reinforcement tip on the jigging rods is a game-changer. It gives you incredible sensitivity and power.
- Reduced Line Twist: Rugged stainless steel angled guide frames help keep your line from twisting. This means smoother casting and better lure control.
- Durable Guides: The deep-pressed guide frames with Titanium oxide inserts are tough. They resist wear and tear from fishing line.
- Secure Tip: A specialized stainless steel tip prevents the inserts from popping out. Your rod stays reliable trip after trip.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Technique Focus: While great for trolling and jigging, it might not be the best all-around rod if you do many other fishing styles.
- Availability: Like many specialized fishing gear, availability might be limited at times.
This rod is a fantastic tool for anglers targeting walleye. It offers the sensitivity and durability needed to succeed.
3. Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo
Rating: 8.9/10
The Okuma CPDR-862M-30DXT Great Lakes Trolling Combo is built for serious anglers targeting the big fish of the Great Lakes. This combo features a sturdy 8’6″ two-piece rod with a medium action, perfect for detecting those subtle bites. The reel boasts 2 ball bearings for smooth operation and durable construction, making it a reliable partner on the water.
What We Like:
- The rod’s specific Great Lakes trolling action helps you feel every nibble.
- Durable E-Glass blank construction means this rod can handle tough fights.
- Double footed aluminum oxide guides are strong and resist wear from fishing line.
- Machine cut brass gears in the reel ensure smooth and dependable performance.
- The combo is built to last, offering good value for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the E-Glass blank might be a bit heavier than some prefer for long days.
- The reel’s 2 ball bearings are functional but might not offer the absolute smoothest retrieve compared to higher-end models with more bearings.
This Okuma trolling combo provides a solid and dependable setup for Great Lakes anglers. It’s a great option for those who want a rod and reel that can take a beating and still perform well.
4. Daiwa ACCUDEPTH TROLLING Rod
Rating: 8.9/10
The Daiwa ACCUDEPTH TROLLING Rod is a fantastic choice for anglers looking for a reliable and strong rod. It’s built tough with graphite composite, making it powerful and able to handle big fish. The 8’6″ length and medium action are great for trolling, and the cut-proof aluminum oxide guides mean your line will run smoothly without getting damaged. Plus, the comfortable Air Foam grips and a handy hook keeper make fishing easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- The graphite composite blank construction makes the rod both powerful and resilient, meaning it can take a beating and still perform.
- Cut-proof Aluminum Oxide guides protect your fishing line, ensuring smooth casting and retrieval.
- Air Foam grips provide a comfortable hold, even during long fishing trips.
- A convenient hook keeper is included to keep your hooks secure when not in use.
- The 8’6″ length and medium power rating are ideal for a variety of trolling applications.
- It’s a 2-piece rod, which makes it easier to transport and store.
- The 10-25lb line weight rating means it’s versatile enough for many different types of fish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While generally robust, some users might prefer a slightly lighter rod for extended casting sessions.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, so it’s good to grab one when you see it.
Overall, the Daiwa ACCUDEPTH TROLLING Rod is a solid performer that offers great value for its quality. It’s a dependable tool for any serious angler.
5. St. Croix Rods Eyecon Trolling Fishing Rod
Rating: 9.3/10
The St. Croix Rods Eyecon Trolling Fishing Rod is a top-notch choice for anglers who love trolling. It’s built with super-premium, 100% linear S-glass, making it stronger and more sensitive than other glass rods. This rod is proudly made in the USA, showing off St. Croix’s commitment to quality. Its advanced technology ensures smooth actions and better strength for reeling in your catch.
What We Like:
- The SUPER-PREMIUM 100% LINEAR S-GLASS CONSTRUCTION makes the rod strong and sensitive.
- Superior production technology like IPC, ART, and TET improves the rod’s performance.
- It features high-quality Kigan Master Hand 3D guides and a Fuji TCS reel seat for a smooth feel.
- The premium-grade EVA handle offers a comfortable grip.
- A Kigan hook-keeper keeps your line tidy.
- The two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish add extra protection.
- It comes with a 5-YEAR TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY, backed by St. Croix’s great service.
- The rod is designed for trolling, with specific specs for line weight and power.
What Could Be Improved:
- The premium quality and advanced features might mean a higher price point for some anglers.
- As a specialized trolling rod, it might not be the best choice for all fishing techniques.
This rod offers exceptional quality and performance for serious trolling enthusiasts. Its durable construction and advanced features make it a reliable partner for any fishing trip.
Choosing the Best Rods for Trolling Walleye
Trolling for walleye can be an incredibly effective way to catch these prized fish. To do it right, you need the right gear, and that starts with a good trolling rod. This guide will help you pick the perfect rod for your walleye trolling adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at trolling rods for walleye, keep these important features in mind:
- Length: Longer rods (7-10 feet) are generally better for trolling. They help you keep your lines spread out, which reduces tangles. Longer rods also give you better control over your lure and provide a smoother hookset.
- Action: This describes how the rod bends. For walleye trolling, a moderate or moderate-fast action is ideal. This means the rod bends more in the upper half. This action helps absorb the shock of a walleye strike and prevents the fish from throwing the hook. It also helps keep your bait in the water.
- Power: This refers to the rod’s backbone, or how much force it takes to bend it. For walleye, a medium or medium-heavy power is usually recommended. This provides enough strength to handle a walleye but is still forgiving enough not to pull hooks.
- Sensitivity: You need to feel those subtle walleye bites. A sensitive rod helps you detect when a fish has grabbed your lure.
- Guides: Look for rods with smooth, durable guides. They should be spaced well to allow the line to flow freely. Ceramic inserts in the guides are great because they reduce friction and protect your fishing line.
Important Materials
The materials used in a rod’s construction significantly impact its performance and durability.
- Graphite: Most modern trolling rods are made from graphite. Graphite is lightweight and offers excellent sensitivity, meaning you can feel even the slightest tugs from a walleye. Different types of graphite, like IM7 or IM8, indicate higher quality and better performance.
- Fiberglass: Some rods are made of fiberglass or a blend of graphite and fiberglass. Fiberglass rods are generally more durable and have a more forgiving action. A composite rod (graphite and fiberglass blend) can offer a good balance of sensitivity and durability.
- Handle Materials: Cork and EVA foam are the most common handle materials. Both offer a comfortable grip. Cork is traditional and feels good, while EVA foam is durable and easy to clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can make a trolling rod great or not so great.
- Build Quality: Look for a rod that is well-assembled. The guides should be securely attached, and the reel seat should be sturdy. A well-built rod will last longer and perform better.
- Blank Construction: The quality of the graphite or composite blank is crucial. Higher-modulus graphite generally means a lighter, more sensitive, and stronger rod.
- Components: The quality of the guides, reel seat, and handle all contribute to the overall quality. High-quality components will withstand the rigors of fishing and provide a better experience.
- Price vs. Performance: While expensive rods often offer better performance, you don’t always need the most costly option. Many mid-priced rods provide excellent value and will serve you well for trolling walleye.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using the right trolling rod makes a big difference in your fishing success and enjoyment.
- Trolling with Planer Boards: When using planer boards to spread your lines out wide, a longer rod is essential. It helps manage the extra line and the leverage needed to control the board and the fish.
- Trolling with Downriggers: Downriggers allow you to get your bait down deep. A rod with a moderate action and good backbone is needed to handle the weight of the downrigger ball and the pressure of a walleye striking deep.
- Trolling with Lead Core or Dipsy Divers: These trolling methods require rods that can handle the extra resistance from the trolling devices. A rod with a bit more power will make these methods easier.
- Feeling the Bite: A sensitive rod allows you to feel the subtle “thump” of a walleye hitting your lure, even when you’re trolling at slower speeds or in rougher water. This helps you react quickly and set the hook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the best length for a walleye trolling rod?
A1: For walleye trolling, rods between 7 and 10 feet long are generally best. Longer rods help spread your lines out and give you better control.
Q2: What rod action should I look for?
A2: A moderate or moderate-fast action is ideal for walleye trolling. This action helps absorb shock and prevents fish from throwing the hook.
Q3: What rod power is best for trolling walleye?
A3: A medium or medium-heavy power is usually recommended. This gives you enough strength for walleye while being forgiving enough to avoid pulling hooks.
Q4: Are graphite rods better for trolling walleye?
A4: Graphite rods are great because they are lightweight and sensitive. This helps you feel the bites better. Some anglers also like composite rods for their durability.
Q5: How important are the rod guides?
A5: The guides are important. Look for smooth, durable guides, especially those with ceramic inserts, as they reduce friction and protect your line.
Q6: Can I use a spinning rod for trolling walleye?
A6: While you can, baitcasting rods are generally preferred for trolling walleye. They offer better line control and are better suited for the techniques used.
Q7: What kind of reel should I pair with a trolling rod?
A7: A baitcasting reel is usually the best choice for trolling. They offer more control over your line and are built for the demands of trolling.
Q8: How does rod length affect my trolling?
A8: Longer rods help you spread your lines wider, which reduces tangles and can present your lures in a more natural way. They also give you more leverage when fighting a fish.
Q9: What is “action” in a fishing rod?
A9: Rod action describes how much the rod bends and where it bends. For trolling, a moderate action bends in the upper half of the rod, which is good for absorbing strikes.
Q10: Do I need a special rod for downrigger trolling?
A10: You need a rod that can handle the weight of the downrigger and the pressure of a fish strike. A rod with a moderate action and good backbone, like those discussed, works well.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!