As an experienced angler and digital editor at Angling Times, I've spent countless hours on the bank fishing for carp. One of the most crucial decisions you'll make is selecting the right rod, as the best carp fishing rod for you depends on your preferred method of fishing. A rod designed for tackling your local farm pond may not be suitable for a wild and windswept 100-acre gravel pit, no matter how good they look sitting on your bite alarms.
Big carp are incredibly powerful creatures, and having a rod that can handle their strength is essential for landing them consistently. The modern carp angling scene is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of fishing styles and techniques. Whether you're a dedicated floater fisherman or prefer to cast extreme distances, choosing the right rod can significantly improve your angling efficiency.
The best carp rods at a glance
That said, however, there are some rods available that are good ‘middle of the road’ options, if you don’t fancy splashing out on a set-up for every situation. Here, then, is our pick of some of the best carp rods on the market right now...
Best carp rod (2023 National Angling Award winner)
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Designed and built in the UK, Daiwa has incorporated the very latest material technology into its Longbow X45M rods. Thanks to the blank’s profile, Daiwa has been able to push the design limits of the test curve, bringing a groundbreaking 4lb tc model into the six-rod range.
Such a test curve would have been more familiar on a spod rod not so long ago – however, the outstanding casting power is remarkably well balanced, with a responsive and forgiving tip action that ensures even tentative hook holds are not penalised. The blank boasts ‘near-skeletal’ TDG guides, making the rod lightweight and super-responsive. A quality Seaguide reel seat and Japanese shrink grip make up a simple, understated handle assembly in a top-quality carp rod.
Pros
- 4lb test curve model is a distance casting beast.
- Very premium build.
Cons
- Shrink wrap handle might not be to every angler's taste.
Best distance casting rod
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Available in test curves between 3lb and 4lb and lengths of 12ft, 12ft 6ins and 13ft, Korda Kaizen Platinum Carp Rods will help you hit your big-cast potential with ease. They’re Korda’s first entry into the rod market, and user reports suggest they won’t disappoint.
Constructed from a high-grade, super tensile Japanese carbon with a fast-tapered profile blank, the rods have a high compression strength, so you can put your back into those long chucks!
They boast a super-fast recovery speed and are super light thanks to the stainless-steel guides, which include a 50mm butt and 16mm tip ring on all models. There’s a dedicated spod rod too.
Pros
- Incredible casting tools.
- Classy, low-glare matt paint finish and clean fittings.
Cons
- We would have liked to have seen a slightly lighter rod in the range for smaller waters.
Best budget carp rod
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A reliable rod that will cover most fishing scenarios in the UK with ease, the Daiwa Black Widow XT Carp rod is a phenomenal rod and friendly on the wallet too.
An HMC+ carbon blank makes for a super lightweight rod that is durable and strong, depending on what test curve you opt for this rod is capable of casting 4oz leads over 100 yards. The 50mm butt ring comes as standard on the 12ft models and there is also a 13ft model to aid those who really want to fish further, with two 10ft options for those who like smaller rods.
The rod features a screw in reel seat, LS ceramic guides as well as a full shrink handle all on an understated finished blank. These rods are not only built to last, they also won’t look out of place on any venue they are used at, they look and perform incredibly well, far above their price point.
Pros
- Range of sizes to suit all anglers.
- Perform to a much higher standard than their price range suggests.
Cons
- Lack power for really long range fishing.
Best surface fishing rod
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The Daiwa Longbow X45 Floater rods offer a superior angling experience, combining cutting-edge technology and exquisite craftsmanship. Designed and built in the UK, these rods are the epitome of surface fishing excellence.
Key features include X45 Technology, which significantly reduces blank twist during casting, increasing casting distance and accuracy. Boasting a forgiving through action, ideal for taming large carp using scaled-down floater tactics. The sleek black finish with understated graphics complements the rod's slim design.
Two models are available, the 2.25lb model for smaller to medium-sized venues and the 3lb model for long-range venues and snaggy conditions. HVF Construction reduces weight while increasing strength and stiffness, resulting in a faster recovery and improved line pickup.
V-Joint Alpha Technology eliminates potential flat spots at the joint, ensuring a smooth playing action and optimised casting energy. Premium guides and intermediate guides provide exceptional responsiveness and sensitivity. A SeaGuide reel seat and Japanese shrink wrap handle enhance comfort and durability.
Pros
- Sleek looks and feel
- The requisite power to punch controller floats a long way
Cons
- Premium price for a rod that would only be used in a specific situation
Best mid-range, all-round carp rod
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Shimano's TX-5A models are truly things of beauty. The aesthetics are backed up by performance, offering a blend of casting power and finesse. They are a joy to play fish on, yet with plenty of power in reserve to hit a big chuck, which can be further improved with the range’s ‘Intensity’ versions.
The blank is made of a slim Nanosheet carbon with a reinforced 3k weave. SeaGuide guides throughout enhance the action and tip recovery speed, all finished off with a 3K reel seat and polymer Winn Grip handle.
Six models range from 10-footers for boat fishing, right up to 13ft
Pros
- Superb fish playing action.
- Good casting performance.
Cons
- Not the best for extreme casting scenarios or stalking work.
Best 'classic looking' carp rod
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For those who want their rods to maintain a classic feel in today’s increasingly high-tech modern carp world, these cork-handled Daiwa Crosscast Traditional rods are just the ticket. Despite being highly affordable, these rods are capable of performing a variety of tasks, from margin stalking to punching longer casts out into the pond.
While they certainly look like a classic carp rod, they are adorned with modern features, including a high-quality carbon fibre blank (the slimmest Daiwa produces) with premium SeaGuide TDG rings and reel seats.
The Crosscast Traditionals are certainly light and responsive, but they still have enough grunt for medium-to-long-range casts when required. They are available in 10ft-13ft lengths in test curves of 3lb to 3.5lb, with a dedicated 5lb spod rod also available
Pros
- A stunning rod to look at on the rests.
- Great fun to play fish on.
Cons
- Not the best for fishing at really long ranges
Best beginner rod
www.fishingrepublic.co.uk
If you’re new to carp fishing and want a reliable rod that you can use anywhere for any size fish, the Fox EOS Pro Carp rods have you covered. The range has rods from 10ft in 3lb/3.5lb test curve to 13ft 3.5lb TC. The shorter rods are perfect for stalking or boat fishing, whilst the longer rods will help you with your casting and are able to tolerate heavier end tackle like solid PVA bags.
A full shrink wrap handle, Slik guides and a low resin carbon blank make for a very lightweight rod that is really comfortable to use and lovely to play fish on. The rods feature very understated graphics and are finished in matt black, giving the rods a timeless feel that will look as good in 20 years time as they do now. An 18mm reel seat will make sure everything is locked securely into place.
Pros
- Plenty of power for accurate casting.
- Premium finish to the rods .
Cons
- A lighter rod for floater fishing would complete the range nicely.
Best budget spod rod
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The Wychwood Dispatch S1 Spod rod might be cheaper than other rods out there but it certainly punches well above its weight. Whilst it doesn’t specify a test curve, it can comfortably cast full, large spombs and big leads out well over 100 yards. The tip has a nice element of sensitivity to it also, so if you wanted the rod to double up as a feature finding tool, as most do nowadays, its more than up to the job.
At 12ft in length with a 50mm butt ring and braid friendly guides, this not only improves the distances that can be achieved, it also stops the braid cutting into or damaging the guides with the brute force that modern day Spombing enforces on rods.
The rod is easily compressed allowing maximum distance and accuracy, it definitely out performs more expensive options out there. If you want a nice, simple spod/marker rod this is a very viable option that is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Powerful rod.
- Can be used for Spomb or marker work.
Cons
- Handle is a little short.
Best mid-range casting rod
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Free Spirit have cemented themselves into the carp fishing fraternity for producing quality rods that are capable of casting ridiculous distances and the Free Spirit CTX Carp rods are no different.
Built on top quality 40t and 30t carbon blanks with very low resin content, the rods are superbly lightweight with a formidable amount of power, with the 13ft 3.5lb test curve version a real casting animal. They are, however, easy to compress and will add yards to even the most capable of casters.
In addition to the quality carbons, Free Spirit have chosen to wrap said carbon at 90 degrees when building the rods. Whilst this sounds technical, in short, it reduces the twisting movement of the rod during casting to improve their accuracy and recovery, very clever indeed. In their category we wouldn’t say there is a rod that rivals its power, they really are that good, they even offer discounts for purchasing more than one rod.
Full Fuji DPS reel seats are included along with S-Lite guides, no expense has been spared, meaning these rods will not only last for years to come, but they will also continue to look fantastic too.
Pros
- Formidable power, incredible casting performance.
- Cork handles available.
Cons
- No smaller version than 12ft available.
ON SALE
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The Sonik Xtractor+ Carp Rod is a marvel of high-performance craftsmanship, exquisitely tailored for the art of carp fishing. Fashioned from high-modulus C6 carbon, it boasts a featherlight design that whispers responsiveness with every cast. Its RAW carbon finish not only enhances durability but also bestows the rod with a striking allure.
With a progressive action that flows gracefully from tip to butt, this rod is a symphony of balance, making it sublime for both casting and engaging with your catch. Adorned with super-light M-Series DL black guides, a resilient anti-frap ceramic tip ring, and a luxurious matte black DPS reel seat, the Xtractor+ is as functional as it is enchanting.
Available in a range of lengths, test curves and a choice of handle material cork or shrink wrapped, this rod accommodates the diverse desires of anglers, ensuring a perfect match for every fishing adventure. It stands as an exceptional choice for those seeking a blend of quality, performance, and affordability in their fishing.
SEE MARK SAWYERS REVIEW OF THESE RODS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL - CLICK HERE!!
Pros
- Rod collapses inside itself for compact storage and transport
- Cross lay carbon gives the tip strength and responsiveness
Cons
- No models longer than 10ft available
Best stalking rod
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These shorter ESP Onyx Quickdraw rods are available in 9 or 10ft and both incorporate 40mm butt rings and a retractable butt section. This not only makes them easier to walk around and get into tight swims with, you can also leave them ready to go in the boot of the car so you never miss an opportunity.
The Anti-frap tip is large and really well designed, it eliminates line wrapping over, which is notorious for happening just as you want to put your rig in, ending up in you messing around trying to untangle the rod. The 9ft rod has a 3lb and 3.25lb test curve version, with the 10ft including a 3.25lb and 3.5lb test.
The rods have a durable EVA handle and the carbon finish is some of the most exquisite available. The rods are finshed this way to prevent scratching and wear that can come with this stalking type of angling, so they are sure to look great and last for years.
Pros
- Retractable for ease of use.
- Lightweight and easy to store and transport.
Cons
- The 9ft version isn't the best casting rod.
What to look for in a carp rod
Picking the best carp fishing rod for you will largely depend on the types of waters you regularly fish. If your venue is a small farm pond or club lake, you aren't going to need 13ft 4lb test curve rods that are built for casting. It's all about finding the right balance, that includes picking the best carp fishing reel to pair the rod with.
Ideally, you want a rod that can cast further than your required distance, so in harsh weather conditions you can still hit the right spots. But this also needs to be paired with a fish playing action that is soft enough for you not to lose fish under the rod tip. Similarly, if you want to bait up at the same range with ease, you might want to consider buying a dedicated spod rod.
Like many things, carp rods tend to follow certain trends. Short rods have been incredibly popular in recent times, as have 13ft models with high test curves, but there is still nothing wrong with the more traditional 12ft length and lower test curves if used in the correct situations.
Glossary
Blank: The hollow carbon fibre tube that the rod is made from, attached to which are the guides and handle.
Guides: The rings that line the length of the rod that the line passes through.
Reel seat: The part of the handle that your reel attaches to. Almost all UK coarse rods have screw-down reel seats, where the fore-grip on the handle rotates and closes the seat to hold the reel in place.
Test curve: Usually measured in pounds, it's the weight that needs to be applied to the end of the rod to make it bend over 90 degrees. The greater the test curve, the more powerful the rod.
Fish playing action: A way of describing how good a rod performs when reeling in a fish. A rod with a good fish-playing action will provide plenty of cushion to a thrashing fish, preventing hookpulls (lost fish) and line breakages.
Progressive action. A rod that quickly powers up from its tip through to its middle area, providing the ideal coordinated playing action for powerful fish.
Tip action: This normally applies to traditional three-piece float rods that need a 'tip or tippy action' to be able to whip out light floats when casting, as well as pick-up line very quickly on the strike.
Through action: A rod that has a softer top section but still produces a cushioned bend throughout its entire length, giving a good fish-playing action.
Rod taper: How a rod changes in diameter along its length. A fast taper rod will typically thicken up very quickly as you move away from the tip. Although other factors come into play, like carbon types, weave and construction, typically, a fast taper rod will bend more at the tip than the butt (tip actioned).
Butt ring: The first eye up from the reel seat, generally, 40mm or 50mm in size and the larger the eye, the less friction on the cast, which can mean better distances.
Anti-frap rings: A specially designed rod ring with longer arms, generally on the tip, which prevents line wrapping around it on the cast, helping prevent crack-offs.
<strong>Frequently asked questions on carp rods</strong>
Should I choose a rod that will cast the furthest distance that I will want to fish?
No, you should choose a rod that best suits the distance that you want to fish at. A rod that is too long and powerful will make casting short distances with any kind of accuracy difficult and will have a poor fish playing action. This is why all rod ranges feature models of varying lengths and powers.
Why are rods different lengths?
Typically, the further you want to cast, the longer the rod you should go for, whilst also taking into account casting weight and fish playing action.
Will a rod with a bigger casting weight or test curve rating cast further?
Yes, when combined with extra length, you will be able to achieve greater distances with the correct technique and a weight that matches the rod. Be aware that the more powerful your rod, the stronger the line and hooks you will need to use to prevent fish losses, which could, in turn, mean you fooling less fish into taking your bait to start off with.
Why are distance casting rods so stiff?
You can cast miles with this rod, yet it doesn't feel like a broom handle to fish with. The stiffness of all distance rods works in two ways. Firstly, it helps to produce lots of casting power, and secondly, it minimises tip recoil aiding casting distance.
What are rod test curves, and what do they mean?
Quite simply, it is the weight required to pull a rod tip to a 90-degree angle to the rod butt when the rod is held in an upright position. They can also be used as a rough rule-of-thumb guide for the rod's weight casting potential.
Author Aidan Bordiuk is an enthusiastic angler who enjoys all fishing disciplines from match fishing to beach casting. He is currently occupying the position of Commercial Content Writer at Angling Times.