The best rod and reel for pier fishing can be one of the best ways to start fishing in saltwater. There is a wide variety of fish that live in and around the submerged structures of the pier. Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, Flounder, Tarpon, Redfish, even Sailfish, and sharks are all available to you throughout the year from a pier.
But did you know that pier fishing is a very specialized discipline? It requires a different skill set than other forms of saltwater fishing. This article will help you address and overcome some of the challenges of pier fishing so that you can come out ahead on your next trip.
Below is a short guide about pier fishing and some of our choices for the best rod and reel for pier fishing for the money.
Picking The Best Rod And Reel For Pier Fishing
There are a few things to keep in mind for pier fishing, so your trip is successful. First of all, there are several different bait types available to you on any given day in the area around the pier. The choices can range from shrimp, sand flea, minnow, bloodworm, squid, or a combination of all of these.
Next, what should you use for tackle? Again, there is a lot of variety in the tackle you can use while pier fishing. We tested gear from all sorts of manufacturers and found some rod and reel combos that we think are genuinely perfect for catching fish off the pier.
Pier fishing can be an ideal way to hone your angling skills without the risk of setting up further out or on open water or trickier surf fishing. It can be a great family outing as well as a quality time for you and your loved ones.
Pier Fishing Is Excellent For The Family
Fishing is excellent for the entire family, with plenty of action for a relatively small amount of money. The best rod and reels for pier fishing In saltwater, your most significant expense will be the cost of tackle for pier fishing. However, there are many ways to save money on this part of your fishing trip.
Here’s a pro-tip: look online for affordable pier fishing tackle in working condition. Also, you can wait until the end of the season after Christmas, when most people want to get rid of their old tackle. Tackle shops often have weekend sales a few weeks before they close up shop for the winter to get rid of extra inventory. But I’d go with new when it comes to your rod and reel for pier fishing.
Our Top Picks for Best Rod And Reel For Pier Fishing
1. Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
- SENSITIVE AND DURABLE GRAPHITE COMPOSITE BLANKS – The Longitude Surf Rods are built with durability and comfort in mind.
- PREMIUM QUALITY COMPONENTS – Components built to withstand harsh conditions and the rigors of all day fishing.
- COMFORT AND FUNCTIONALITY – The butt section of the Longitude Surf Rods are wrapped in premium cork for a non-slip fore and rear grip feel for all day casting.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Price: $59.12
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Description: Okuma’s Longitude is a composite rod that is available in black, blue, or silver and is excellent for fishing in the surf right off the pier. The rod itself is 61 x 6 x 6 inches in dimension, and it is built with comfort in mind. Okuma’s Longitude is strong and still sensitive enough to feel the smallest of bites in the water. So when you are fishing off the pier, this is precisely what you need! This rod is made of very high-quality materials making it very durable, even over time after being on the water. And, you can use the rod with braided lines.
2. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Fishing Rod
- Line rating - 8-17 pounds
- Ugly tech construction with added graphite for lighter weight and increased sensitivity
- Ugly tuff one piece stainless steel guides provide maximum durability
- Cork handles provide comfort during lengthy fishing outi
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Price: $49.95 – $119.57
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Description: The spinning fishing rod from Ugly Stik is made with up to 35% more graphite making it feel great and giving it strength. This rod’s dimensions are 1.97 x 72.05 x 1.97 inches, and the handle is made of cork, so it is very comfortable to hold over extended periods. In addition, ugly Stik’s spinning fishing rod is durable due to the graphite and fiberglass that make up the entire rod. And, as we have seen with other Ugly Stik products, this rod comes with a stainless steel guide that helps to get around the ever-present threat of insert pop-outs.
3. KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods
- Available in 29 sizes from an ultra light spinning fishing rod to a heavy 7’ spinning rod and a baitcaster rod ranging from medium to heavy power.
- World renowned Fuji O-Ring line guides, tuned ergonomic graphite high-strength reel seats, high-density EVA grips.
- Specialized high technology computer control wrapping at four angles (0⁰, 45⁰, 90⁰, 135⁰) keeps the power flowing.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Price: $61.19
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Description: The KastKing Perigee II is a break apart fishing rod constructed with 24-ton carbon. The patented flex blank technology offers outstanding power, accuracy, and strength. Available in sizes from a light spinning rod to a heavy 7’ spinning rod, this is an ideal rod for pier fishing to catch catfish, steelhead, or any other saltwater fish. This rod comes equip with Fuji O-Ring line guides, ergonomic graphite reel seats, EVA grips, and a hooker holder. The carbon fiber and lightweight guides give this rod great sensitivity so you know the minute your fish is on the line. Overall, this rod offers fast action, smooth casting, and a comfortable handle.
4. Daiwa BG8000 BG Saltwater Spinning Reel
- Black Anodized Machined Aluminum Housing (Hard Bodyz Body & Side Cover), Over-sized Digigear (Digigear System)
- Solid Screw-In Handle, Air Rotor, Dynamic Cut Aluminum ABS Spool
- Braided Line Ready Spool, Waterproof Drag System, Carbon ATD, Line Per Handle Turn: 53.3
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Price: $109.99
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Description: Daiwa’s saltwater spinning reel is available in black and gold and has an aluminum handle. This reel is made to use with a braided fishing line, has an aluminum bearing, and weighs one pound. In addition, Daiwa’s spinning reel has a screw-in handle that is very solid, and it has a drag system that is completely waterproof and extremely strong. So when you are fishing off the pier, this reel is the perfect companion. The line capacity of this reel was tested up to 30 pounds per 370 yards. You should feel confident fishing for bluefin tuna with Daiwa’s saltwater spinning reel.
5. Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Fishing Reel
- IPX5 sealed body and spool design
- CNC gear technology
- Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers
- 5+1 sealed stainless-steel ball bearing System
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Price: $132.62 – $329.99
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Description: Penn’s spinning fishing reel is an attractive option for the left-handed or right-handed angler. The reel has a carbon fiber handle and weighs under one pound. And, with stainless steel bearings and a body made entirely of metal, this reel is made to last. Plus, because the body is sealed, even if water were to splash on the reel, you do not have to worry about corrosion occurring inside the gearbox or the system for drag. Once you begin using this reel on the water, you will notice quickly that Penn has built something with great drag power!
