Fishing Rods Travel-Friendly Options for 2025

Jennie
Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2025

Selecting the best travel fishing rods for anglers who prefer to pack light and bring a fishing rod wherever they go requires some planning and consideration of the options, as well as the types of fish you might encounter during your travels. We've reviewed a wide range of rods and compiled a list of options to consider, along with our top recommendations for different types of fishing and travel experiences.


When selecting the best travel fishing rods, for your fishing plans there are several factors to consider, such as the rod's size when disassembled, the number of pieces, the type of rod case (whether a roll or bag), and how you plan to transport it. Additionally, it's important to decide if a telescoping rod is a practical option for your needs.

 

Best Travel Fishing Rods

 

1. Shimano Zodias Pack Rod

 

Features:


Packability: 19 inches when packed


Length: Varies (typically available in various sizes)


Rod Material: Carbon Fiber


Reel Seat: CI4+ for lightweight strength


Grip: Full carbon grip for enhanced sensitivity


Pieces: 5


Pros:

  • Provides strong performance with a smooth, natural feel when casting
     
  • Compact and easy to carry with a 19-inch packed length
     
  • Full carbon grip offers lightweight sensitivity without using EVA
     
  • 5-piece construction delivers a smoother, more consistent bend than 2-piece rods
     
  • CI4+ reel seat provides strength without adding extra weight
     

Cons:

  • May require more careful handling of joints after extended use due to potential loosening

 

Best For: The Shimano Zodiac is a great option for anglers looking for a versatile, durable, and high-performance rod at a reasonable price, perfect for both freshwater and light saltwater fishing.

 

2. St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod

 

Features:

  • Packability: 2' long when packed
     
  • Length Options: 5.6, 6, 6.6 feet
     
  • Rod Material: Carbon Fiber
     
  • Type: Spinning
     
  • Power/Action: Medium/Fast
     
  • Pieces: 4


Pros:

  • SCII carbon blank for added strength and sensitivity
     
  • 2 layers of Flex-Coat for extra durability
     
  • 5-year warranty
     
  • Comes with a padded nylon case that fits in overhead compartments
     
  • Sea Guide Atlas Performance SS304 stainless steel guides for long-lasting use


Cons:

  • Joints may loosen after extended use


Best for: The St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod is highly recommended for anyone looking for a versatile, durable, and compact rod for traveling. It’s a reliable option for all your fishing trips!


3. Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

 

Features:

  • Packability: Breaks down to 30 inches (32 inches in case)
     
  • Rod Material: High-modulus blank
     
  • Guides: Fuji Aluminum Oxide
     
  • Grip: Split EVA grip
     
  • Ferrule System: V-flex ferrule joint (easy to assemble and disassemble)
     
  • Length Options: 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium-heavy, 7-foot 6-inch medium-heavy
     

Pros:

  • High-quality construction with a high-modulus blank for strength and sensitivity
     
  • V-flex ferrule joint system makes assembly and disassembly quick and easy
     
  • Comes with a durable hard case for protection during travel
     
  • Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides for smooth line flow and durability
     
  • Comfortable split EVA grip for a secure hold
     
  • Quick setup, allowing you to start fishing almost immediately


Cons:

  • The ferrule system, while convenient, may need some extra care to maintain over time
     
  • Slightly heavier compared to other travel rods


Best For: This is an excellent travel rod for anglers who want high-end performance without sacrificing portability. The V-flex ferrule joint system makes assembly quick and easy, so you can get fishing in no time. It’s perfect for those who prefer a rod with a durable build and want a smooth, fast action for various fishing styles. Plus, the included hard case ensures the rod is protected during transport.


4. Okuma Voyager Travel Combo

 

Features:

  • Packability: 17.8 inches
     
  • Length: 6 feet
     
  • Rod Material: Composite
     
  • Type: Spinning
     
  • Power/Action: Medium
     
  • Pieces: 5
     

Pros:

  • Includes a nylon rod-and-reel travel bag
     
  • Corrosion-resistant aluminum spool
     
  • Ceramic guide inserts for smooth casting and retrieving
     

Cons:

  • Not as sensitive as higher-end rods


Best For: The Okuma Voyager Combo is a reliable, durable travel setup with a perfectly matched rod and reel, ideal for hiking or long road trips in a small car.


5. St. Croix Triumph Surf Travel Spinning Rod 

 

Features:

  • Packability: 37.2 inches
     
  • Length: 5.6, 6, 6.6 feet
     
  • Rod Material: Carbon Fiber
     
  • Type: Spinning
     
  • Power/Action: Medium/Fast
     
  • Pieces: 4


Pros:

  • SCII carbon blank for added strength and sensitivity
     
  • 2 coats of Flex-Coat for extra durability
     
  • 5-year warranty
     
  • Comes with an airline-friendly padded nylon case
     
  • Sea Guide Atlas Performance SS304 stainless steel guides for long-lasting use


Cons:

  • Expensive
     
  • Doesn’t come with a case


Best For: The St. Croix Triumph Surf Travel Spinning Rod outperforms many surf fishing rods. It is an excellent choice for serious beach fishing. It’s a true “beach warrior”!

 

6. KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Rod


Features:

  • Packability: 27.5
     
  • Length Options: 6.6, 6.8, 7, 7.1, 7.3, 7.4, 7.6, 8 feet
     
  • Rod Material: Graphite
     
  • Type: Spinning and Casting
     
  • Power/Action: Medium/Fast, Medium Heavy/Fast, Medium/Fast, Heavy/Moderate Fast
     
  • Pieces: 1


Pros:

  • Made with Toray 24-Ton Carbon Matrix, which adds strength and sensitivity
     
  • Glass tip for better sensitivity
     
  • Snug-fit ferrules allow the rod to perform like a one-piece rod
     
  • Available in 14 lengths and actions, with both spinning and casting rod models


Cons:

  • No carrying case


Best for: This rod is great for those who want a portable and high-quality rod at an affordable price.


7. Daiwa Spinmatic Travel Rod


Features:

  • Length: 5.6, 6, 6.6, 7 feet
     
  • Packability: 21.5 inches
     
  • Rod Material: Graphite
     
  • Type: Spinning
     
  • Power/Action: Ultralight/Fast
     
  • Pieces: 4


Pros:

  • Made with a high-performance graphite blank for strength and sensitivity.
     
  • Aluminum oxide guides for smooth casting and protection from line damage.
     
  • Comes with a soft wrap-around travel case for easy carrying.
     
  • Genuine Fuji reel seat for a secure fit.


Cons:

  • The rod feels a bit stiff.


Best For: The Daiwa Spinmatic Travel Rod is a great ultralight rod, perfect for catching smaller fish like bream, rock bass, and rainbows. If you need a reliable, compact rod for light fishing, this is a great option.


8. BnM Poles Little Mighty Telescoping Rod


Features:

  • Length: Extends to 20 feet, breaks down to 22 inches
     
  • Rod Material: Fiberglass
     
  • Type: Telescoping
     
  • Pieces: 1 (Telescoping sections)


Pros:

  • Reaches up to 20 feet, perfect for long-distance fishing.
     
  • Compact and easy to carry when collapsed to 22 inches.
     
  • Great for crappie and bluegill fishing.
     
  • Lightweight and easy to handle once you get used to the length.


Cons:

  • Requires careful handling when extending and collapsing to avoid sections getting out of order.
     
  • Not a typical "travel rod" since it's more of a telescoping rod.


Best For: It is Great for anglers who enjoy fishing for smaller fish like crappie and bluegill, especially in tight spaces or from boats and docks. It's also perfect for those looking for a simple and nostalgic rod for casual trips.
 

9. Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Fly Rod


Features:

  • Packability: Length – 25.5”
     
  • Length: 7.6, 9, 10
     
  • Rod Material: Graphite
     
  • Type: Fly
     
  • Power/Action: Medium
     
  • Pieces: 4


Pros:

  • High-grade AAA cork grips for comfortable casting
     
  • Includes an extra tip section for durability
     
  • Beautiful finish with a real wood rod butt
     
  • Comes with a hard canvas rod tube for protection
     
  • Lifetime warranty


Cons:

  • No guide dots for easy assembly


Best for: This rod is perfect for anglers who want a high-quality, easy-to-carry fly rod for fishing in streams and lakes.

 

Key Considerations for Choosing a Travel Fishing Rod


When selecting the best travel rods, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

  • Packability: A rod that folds down easily and packs compactly is essential for travel.
     
  • Performance: A good travel rod needs to perform well, with strong materials, sensitivity, and durability when it's time to fish.
     
  • Durability: Travel rods need to be sturdy enough to handle the bumps and knocks they get during transport, ensuring they last long.


How to Choose the Perfect Travel Fishing Rod?

 

how to choose the perfect travel fishing rod

 

When choosing a travel fishing rod, you don't have to sacrifice quality or performance. Just like with any rod, think about what kind of fish you'll be catching and choose the right rod for it.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind:


Length:


Nowadays, there are several travel rod options available in varying sizes. So you don't have to stick to just one size for all your fishing trips. Consider the type of fish you want to catch when selecting a travel rod.
If you're fishing for saltwater fish, go for a rod longer than 7 feet.


If you’re targeting smaller fish like panfish, crappie, or trout, rods between 5-7 feet are ideal.

Cases:


Most travel rods come with a case to keep them protected. There are two main types:

 

  • Roll-up Case:


Most travel rods have a roll-up nylon case. The rod sections fit inside, and the case rolls up. After rolling it up, you hold it with a strap, button, or velcro. While these cases work, they can bent or get damaged if something heavy presses on them, like a car door.

  • Rod Tube:


Some travel rods have a hard plastic rod tube. These rods are tough and provide excellent protection for the rod. If you're hiking to your fishing location, ensure the tube has a carrying strap so you can easily carry it.


Final Thoughts


A good-quality travel rod can make a significant difference to your holiday fishing experience. After extensive research and testing of different models, the top 9 travel rods have been selected to assist in making the right decision for your next holiday.
For the best overall Travel Rod, the St. Croix Triumph Travel Spinning Rod stands out. It performs exceptionally well in all the areas that make a top-notch travel rod.
Although the St. Croix is our top recommendation, all of the rods listed in this guide are great choices. Try them out and let us know what you think – we'd appreciate your input!

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