The best carp fishing rods under £100

Landing a monster carp is every angler's dream, but it takes the right carp fishing rod to make it a reality. The cornerstone of your carp-catching arsenal is undoubtedly your rod. While top-tier rods can command hefty price tags, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy successful carp fishing. However, with countless options out there, choosing the right length and test curve can be a bit of a head-scratcher.

If you're looking to cast short to mid-range, a 10ft rod with a 2.5lb or 2.75lb test curve is a solid starting point. For those needing to bomb it out to the horizon, upping the ante with a 12ft or 13ft rod and a 3.5lb+ test curve model is the way to go.

Best carp rods under £100 at a glance:

• Best Carp Rod under £100: Korda Kaizen Green 10ft Carp Rod - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle

• Best Starter Carp Rod under £100: Fox EOS Pro Carp Rod - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle

• Best Stalking Carp Rod under £100: ESP Onyx Quickdraw 9ft Carp Rod - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle

• Best Spod/Marker Rod under £100: Daiwa Super Spod Rod - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle

Carp can be found almost anywhere in freshwater in the UK, with specimens reaching impressive sizes. Whether you're fishing with PVA sticks on your local commercial fishery or casting big leads over long distances on a large gravel pit, having the right gear is crucial. The guide below highlights some of the best carp rods available for under £100, ensuring you have the right tools without breaking the bank.

What to look for in a carp rod

With a vast array of venues, from small, overgrown ponds to expansive gravel pits, anglers need rods that can adapt. A key consideration is the rod's test curve, influencing casting distance and playing ability. For shorter ranges and smaller waters, a 2.5lb to 3.0lb test curve offers a great balance of power and sensitivity. If you're targeting larger venues or casting to distant features, a 3.0lb to 3.5lb TC carp fishing rod is more suitable. The best spod rods are often required to help you deliver heavy payloads at distance to prevent breakages to your fishing rods.

Rod length also plays a role; longer rods excel at distance casting, while shorter models offer better manoeuvrability in confined spaces. High-modulus carbon blanks provide the ideal blend of strength and lightness, essential for playing powerful fish. Top-quality guides, such as those made from stainless steel or ceramic, prevent line friction and tangles, ensuring smooth casting and accurate presentation, whilst a comfortable handle, whether cork or EVA, is crucial for long fishing sessions.

Finally, a secure reel seat is non-negotiable, preventing equipment failure during those critical moments. Considering these attributes whether or not you are a beginner or an experienced angler will assist you in making the right decision on your next carp fishing rod.

Glossary

Blank: The hollow carbon fiber tube that forms the main body of the rod. Attached to the blank are the guides and handle.

Guides: The rings that run along the length of the rod through which the fishing line passes.

Reel Seat: The part of the handle where your reel attaches. Most UK coarse rods feature screw-down reel seats, where the fore-grip on the handle rotates to tighten the seat and secure the reel in place.

Test Curve: Measured in pounds, this indicates the amount of weight required to bend the rod over 90 degrees. A higher test curve means a more powerful rod.

Fish Playing Action: Describes how well a rod performs when reeling in a fish. A rod with a good fish-playing action provides ample cushioning to absorb the shock from a thrashing fish, helping to prevent hook pulls and line breakages.

Progressive Action: A rod that quickly powers up from its tip through to its middle section, offering a coordinated playing action suitable for powerful fish.

Tip Action: Typically refers to traditional three-piece float rods, which require a 'tip action' to efficiently cast light floats and quickly pick up line on the strike.

Through Action: A rod with a softer top section that produces a smooth, cushioned bend throughout its entire length, providing a good fish-playing action.

Rod Taper: Describes how a rod's diameter changes along its length. A fast taper rod quickly thickens as you move away from the tip, often bending more at the tip than at the butt. While other factors like carbon types and construction also influence rod action, a fast taper typically features more tip action.

Frequently asked questions

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 as the cushion isn't in the rod to prevent line breakages.

Whats the best test curve for a carp rod?

This determines the rod's power and casting distance. A versatile range lies between 2.75lb and 3.25lb, balancing power and precision. Lighter options (2.0lb-2.5lb) suit smaller waters and fish, while heavier choices (3.5lb+) excel at long-range battles with larger specimens.

What length carp rod should I use?

The standard range spans from 10ft to 13ft. Shorter rods shine in confined spaces, offering better control. Conversely, longer rods excel at distance casting. Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferred fishing style and the venues you frequent.

Whats the difference between a carp and a match rod?

Carp rods are built for power, handling larger fish with their stiffer actions and ability to withstand heavy leads. In contrast, match rods prioritise sensitivity for finesse fishing with smaller baits and lighter lines, featuring softer actions.

Whats the best rod action for carp fishing?

Rod action describes how the rod bends under pressure. A progressive action, bending smoothly from tip to butt, offers versatility for various fish sizes. Faster actions excel in casting but can be less forgiving on hook holds, while slower actions provide superior cushioning for larger fish.

Should I choose a cork or EVA handled rod?

This all comes down to personal preference. Cork is lightweight, transmits more feeling to your hands when playing a fish and looks great. EVA, however, is cheaper and more durable. Many rods have an abbreviated or combined cork/EVA handle, with the material best suited to a particular part of the handle used to give the best of both worlds.

Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of digital content writer at Angling Times.