Best Spinning Rods Under 50: Spinning rods come with all sorts of qualities and specifications. So we hands-on reviewed some of the top fishing rods out there to bring you the Best Spinning Rod Under $50.
If you are in a hurry: Ugly Stik Elite is the Best Spinning Rod Under 50 as per our reviews.
- UGLY STIK 7’ ELITE SPINNING ROD: 35% more graphite than...
- 6-14LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER, FAST ACTION: Built tough...
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Constructed from graphite and...
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Now, let us move to our in-depth reviews.
Best Spinning Rods Under 50 Reviews
Here is our list of the 7 Best Spinning Rods Under $50.
- Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod
- Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2
- Okuma Celilo Graphite Rod
- Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod
- KastKing Crixus Spinning Rods
- Berkley Lightning Spinning Rod
- Lew’s Laser Lite Speed Spin Combo
Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod
Ugly Stik Elite brings you quality construction and reliability along with the smooth and excellent performance this brand is well known for.
This rod contains 35 percent more graphite than usual models which makes it lightweight and easy to use. Yet this rod does not compromise on durability or reliability of performance.
The special stainless steel guides improve the strength. The cork handles give you a better grip and feel of operation. Furthermore, its perfect structure improves the sensitivity of the rod. Overall handling is extremely comfortable.
This rod is relatively easy to use for long durations even on rough fishing waters. This really is the best spinning rod you can get in this price range.
Pros
- This is a top-rated spinning rod in this price range.
- It comes with a seven-year warranty.
- The construction is very strong and dependable.
Cons
- This rod really has no negative reviews.
Verdict
Ugly Stik Elite is the best spinning rod under 50 due to its excellent performance and reliable construction. Many experienced anglers rely on this rod and recommend it to newbies.
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Rod
Ugly Stik is a renowned brand for fishing rods of all varieties. Such that every angler has used this rod at some point along their journey.
While many new brands for spinning rods have emerged over time, none has defeated the legacy of Ugly Stik. This very popular brand has come up with a cheaper alternative that is as reliable as most high-end spinning rods.
The best part about this rod is its strong and reliable construction. For a low price, Ugly Stik GX2 has brought you a balanced rod with top-level performance.
This rod is extremely lightweight owing to its graphite and fiberglass construction. This is also the reason for its supreme comfort and dependable sensitivity. As compared to most other spinning rods, this one comes out at the top in sensitivity.
The build quality is further enhanced by the Ugly Tuff stainless steel corrosion-resistant guides. These stainless steel guides impart unmatchable smoothness and resilience to the rod.
Overall, this rod is very sturdy and built to sustain the roughness that accompanies fishing.
The rod is very comfortable due to the special dual EVA grips on the handles. It makes the rod easy to use and reduces the tendency to slip.
Pros
- This rod is strong, durable, and ultimate in performance.
- The reliability and comfort offered by this rod are incomparable.
- The best part is, this rod comes with a seven-year warranty.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the handle is not very strong.
Verdict
This is probably the best spinning rod under 50 for beginners. Moreover, it is very durable. Once you have worked up your fishing skills you can hand this rod down to another aspiring angler.
Okuma Celilo Graphite Rod
This is one of the most dependable rods and is widely used by professional anglers for trout fishing. You can catch fish like trout, salmon, and steelhead with sturdy and powerful rods like this one.
But don’t get fooled by the low price. This rod easily beats even the much more expensive rods on performance.
The main material of construction for this rod is graphite composite. This material provides lightweight graphite along with the strength of admixed materials. The stainless steel guides that also have aluminum oxide inserts make the rod sturdy.
Even the reel seats of this rod are built out of stainless steel. They also contain special corrosion-resistant hoods for adequate protection.
The handle has special rear and fore cork grips for the ultimate grip and ease of use.
You’d be glad to know that this rod works superbly well even in saltwater environments. For this price, this spinning rod is truly a wonder. This is the reason why anglers worldwide admire it.
Pros
- This is one of the best quality spinning rods and not just in this price range.
- You can use these strong and corrosion-resistant rods in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
- The superior grips for the handle and the special guide designs make this rod very smooth.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the handle grips for this rod didn’t turn out as comfortable as they had expected.
Verdict
Okuma Celilo is a very popular spinning rod owing to its high quality and durability. The price is almost unbelievable considering the performance of this rod.
Shakespeare Micro Spinning Rod
This rod, like every other Shakespeare equipment, is supremely durable. Even the reel seats are strong and duly supported with the help of special cushioned hoods. Overall construction is very sturdy and reliable.
Shakespeare offers these rods in different lengths and actions for anglers. There are six different models of the Shakespeare Micro Spinning rod ranging from 4.6 feet to 7.6 feet in length.
The handles for this rod are made of cork for ultimate comfort. The stainless steel guides reinforced with stainless steel inserts allow the smooth passage of the fishing line.
The lightweight of these rods is the result of the special graphite composite construction. The lightweight is also responsible for the incomparable comfort offered by this rod. This may be the best ultralight spinning rod under 50 on the market.
Pros
- This rod is great for fishing with lightweight lures.
- It comes in six different models to meet the different priorities of anglers.
- It is not only comfortable to use, but it is also very durable.
Cons
- You may want to go for another rod if you need more power.
Verdict
This rod will work great alongside a medium size reel. It can catch heavy to medium-sized fish in the most comfortable manner. Grab on to one of these if you crave ultimate comfort and smoothness.
KastKing Crixus Spinning Rods
Speaking of classics up in the premier league of rods you can’t possibly expect me to miss KastKing. KastKing has been churning out top-quality rods in the fishing industry for a long time.
KastKing Crixus combines all the great features that come in a premium rod with its highly affordable price.
This spinning rod comes in sizes from 5’6″ ft and 7’6″ ft. Built with IM6 Graphite this rod is super strong and resilient.
We tested the 6 feet medium power, fast-action rod. Along with being lightweight and durable, these rods are ultra-sensitive. We were able to get all the feels of fishing with this rod.
KastKing Crixus also features a golf style SuperPolymer handle. This makes the rod easy to use and slip-resistant. It let us control our rod effortlessly. We don’t normally get to see such performance handles on rods in this price range.
The stainless-steel guides on this rod come with Zirconium Oxide rings. It makes casting smooth with any type of fishing line be it fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braid. We were able to cast long distances with great accuracy.
Pros
- Stainless steel guides provide a smooth and steady cast.
- The rod features high-quality performance handles for an excellent grip.
- It is a strong, tough, and sturdy rod that is effective in catching all types of fish.
- This rod is very flexible and can bear the brunt of harsh use.
Cons
- Reel seat locks do not work well with time.
Verdict
KastKing Crixus is an excellent spinning rod for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It is a durable fast-action rod with medium power.
If you’re looking to get a premium rod for an affordable price then KastKing Crixus might be an ideal fit for you.
Berkley Lightning Spinning Rod
This is the most reliable and durable spinning rod in this price range. While being one of the most sturdy spinning rods on the market, it is also one of the most sensitive. It is capable of beating most high-end spinning rods with its excellent performance.
It is rare to come across spinning rods that are sturdy in construction while being lightweight and sensitive as spinning rods ought to be. At the same time, it is also durable and dependable. Its price is almost a surprise because even more expensive rods are seldom able to achieve this feat.
The main construction material for this rod is a multi-modulus carbon composite blank. The rubberized cork handles enhance the strength and tightness of the grip.
The stainless steel guides come with aluminum oxide inserts for extra resistance to corrosion. I am amazed at how these guides let the fishing line smoothly pass through.
Pros
- This is a very strong and durable rod made out of the toughest materials.
- At the same time, this rod is also very lightweight and sensitive.
- It is considered the most durable rod in this category.
Cons
- Some users report that the reel seat is relatively uncomfortable.
Verdict
This rod comes from a reputable brand. It is very dependable owing to its sturdy construction. You wouldn’t get such a promising rod anywhere else for this price.
Lew’s Laser Lite Speed Spin Combo
Lew’s is all about building a brand that speaks for itself. It has manufactured several rods that have been instant hits in the fishing world. Speed, agility, and power, all come under Lew’s fishing brand.
Lew’s Laser Lite Speed Spin Rod Combo may be the best value spinning rod and reel combo on the market right now.
The rod comes in the classic lengths of 5 feet to 6 feet. Its body is built out of toughened IM6 graphite which makes the rod lightweight and sturdy.
Graphite blank coupled with stainless steel guides increases the overall casting distance. Stainless steel guides and stainless steel inserts make the rod strong and sensitive.
The grip on this rod is exceptional. Your hold on the rod won’t falter at any point during your fishing trip. It ensures a smooth and comfortable fishing experience.
This reel’s highlight is its skeletal speed rotor. It makes the reel rugged and lightweight. The skeletal rotor design cuts the weight in the right places without impacting build quality.
Pros
- The rod and reel combo can handle all kinds of fish really well.
- This rod is definitely one of the most lightweight and sensitive rods on the market.
- It is much more cost-effective as compared to other rod and reel combos.
- The reel comes with 3 ball bearings + 1 zero Reverse clutch bearing.
Cons
Some users feel that the rod is not as well balanced as some of the other rods.
Verdict
Lew’s Laser Lite Speed Spin Combo is a great way to grab a quick, cost-effective fishing rod and reel. Its smooth glide will definitely suit you if you’re into fishing pleasures.
Compared to other fishing combos, this takes affordable fishing to a whole new level.
How to Pick the Best Spinning Rod Under 50
There are a large variety of spinning rods to choose from. While we have reviewed and tested some of the best spinning rods under $50, the perfect rod for each person may be different.
You need to check length, power, action, construction, and so many things before you pick a rod. Besides these factors, your rod’s sensitivity will determine if you’ll catch your desired fish or not.
So let me give you just one simple tip that serves even the top anglers. Go with your gut whenever you’re buying a fishing rod. The right fishing rod for you will sit well with your hand as well as your mind.
Rod Length
Spinning rods of different lengths are available in the market. Your choice of a particular rod depends on your target fish and the type of approach you wish to go forth with.
You’ll need a longer rod for throwing longer casts and for surf casting. While shorter rods will work great in more congested fishing waters. Also, note that shorter rods are more accurate.
The length might vary but for most anglers, the ideal length would be between 6 feet and 8 feet.
Type of Action
Your spinning rod can be fast action, moderate, or slow action. The action rating of a rod depends upon its flexibility.
Fast-action rods will only bend at the tip when weighed at one end. In comparison, slow-action rods will bend in their entirety. Moderate action rods bend a little farther from the tip.
You need to pick the action rating for your rod as per the size of the fish you are planning to catch and the types of lures you are planning to use.
Rod Weight
The weight of your rod also depends on the type of fish you are aiming to catch. You need a stiff and heavy rod to catch heavy fish. Smaller fish can be managed well even with lighter rods. You must get the right set of gear that matches your target fish.
Price Range and Budget
Your budget will differ if you are a professional angler or if fishing is another hobby you want to pursue.
Know how much you can comfortably spend and select the rod appropriately.
Conclusion
We have reviewed and tested some of the best spinning rods under 50 on the market. But you must go for the one that suits your target fish as well as the fishing conditions.
The rods we have tested may be cheaper, but they are reliable and offer quality performance. We have also included a buying guide so to help you the right rod for you. So screen through our list and make sure whatever rod you select suits your needs.
While Ugly Stik Elite is the best spinning rod under 50 as per our reviews, you may go for Ugly Stik GX2 if you are looking for a more sensitive rod.
Likewise, someone looking for a more durable rod may go for Berkley Lightning. Okuma Celilo is the most dependable option if your target fish is trout. Shakespeare Micro is unmatchable in comfort if you only wish to relax on the shore.
