Last updated on August 18th, 2023
- What Does Trout Taste Like: Unraveling the Flavor Mysteries - August 2, 2023
- Best Fishing Bibs Tested & Reviewed: Buyer’s Guide - July 19, 2023
- Fishing for Whiskers: Best Bait for Catfish - July 12, 2023
Telescopic fishing rods offer a convenient and portable solution for anglers who want to be prepared for any fishing opportunity. These rods are compact, lightweight, and easy to store, making them perfect for keeping in your vehicle or carrying with you. A high-quality telescopic rod should have similar features to a traditional fishing rod, such as modulus carbon blanks, premium guides, and comfortable reel seats. However, with numerous options on the market, finding the right one can be challenging. We’ve tested models from reputable brands with quality components that perform like conventional rods.
Top 7 Editor Picks:
- Best Overall: DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround
- Best Baitcasting: KastKing Blackhawk II
- Best Handle Design: EOW XPEDITE
- Best Collapsible Fishing Rod and Reel: KINGSWELL Telescopic
- Best Versatility: Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod
- Best Budget: Magreel Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
- Most Lightweight: Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth
Table of Contents:
What to Consider Before Buying
Best Telescopic Fishing Rods Reviewed
What to Consider Before Buying a Collapsible Fishing Rod
When buying a telescopic fishing rod, consider the same factors as you would for a standard rod. Determine your target species and preferred fishing methods, and look for rods with quality components such as carbon fiber blanks, sturdy guides, and comfortable handles. This will ensure you have a ready-to-use and enjoyable fishing rod.
Length of the Rod
When evaluating the size of a telescopic rod, consider both its folded and extended lengths. For backpack fishing trips, a rod that collapses to less than a foot is ideal. However, if the rod will be stored in your vehicle, the folded length may not be as critical. The extended length is more important for fishing performance; a seven-foot rod offers a balance between casting distance and maneuverability while still collapsing to a manageable size. Ensure the rod size matches your fishing style for optimal results.
Species to Target
Ensure the rod you choose aligns with your fishing style and is suitable for the species you’re targeting. Telescopic rods function like one-piece counterparts, so the length and action should match your usual preferences. For bass anglers who favor baitcasting, telescopic casting rods are available. If you live near the ocean, consider a saltwater or surf casting telescopic rod.
Durability
High-quality rods are made from high modulus carbon fiber blanks, like traditional rods. Carbon fiber blanks provide sensitivity and durability, crucial for detecting strikes and setting the hook with telescopic rods. Premium guides, such as Fuji, indicate a durable rod, as these guides resist bending and breaking during storage and use.
Action
Action refers to how easily it will bend when under load; moderate and slow actions are typical for telescopic rods. Power rating is determined by its backbone section’s strength; this determines what kind of lure or bait weight your rod can handle without breaking or bending too much. A medium power rod with fast action should be able to handle most light lures and bait weights used in recreational fishing trips.
Best Telescopic Fishing Rods of 2023
Now that you know what to pay attention to when purchasing a telescopic fishing rod, we want to bring you our favorite collapsible fishing rods on the market. We’ve made sure to include recommendations for all budgets so you can make a solid choice based you means. Let’s go.
Disclaimer: All products in this article were independently researched and reviewed by our team of experienced anglers. We use so-called affiliate links in this article offered by program such as the amazon associates program. This means that if you click on one of the links provided in this article and end up making a purchase, we might earn a small commission at no extra cost for you. We only recommend products we’ve tested and believe in.
Best Overall: DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: 7.87 ft to 11.81 ft
- Telescopic design
- EVA foam grip with cork top
- Oxide tele guides
- 6 months warranty
Why We Picked it: The DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround is a versatile telescopic fishing rod that caters to various angling situations. Its ultra-light and medium-fast action blank makes it easy to cast with precision and sensitivity. With high-quality components like oxide guides and a comfortable EVA foam grip, this rod has a lot to offer. Although it doesn’t come with a lifetime warranty, DAIWA provides a limited warranty to cover potential issues.
The DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround is a great choice for anglers who value adaptability and ease of transport. Yes, all telescopic rods are meant to be highly packable, but the Daiwa really shines here since it packs down to 29.5″ to 34″ (depending on the model you choose) which should easily fit into any trunk or bag.
Pros: The biggest advantage of this fishing rod is its telescopic design, which allows for easy transport and storage paired with a solid action (that almost feels like you’re fishing a conventional rod). Its medium-fast action blank provides accurate casting and sensitivity to detect subtle bites from fish like trout or panfish.
Cons: One downside of the DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround is that it doesn’t come with a lifetime warranty. 6 months of warranty on a product of this quality and in this price range is not what you would expect. Also, I have to admit that I am not the biggest fan of their handle design. The split EVA foam grip provides a solid grip. But why did they use cork for the upper section of the handle. To me it feels like Daiwa wanted to create a hybrid look of a modern and a traditional rod – not the best idea design wise.
But overall, the DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround is a reliable and versatile telescopic fishing rod that’s suitable for a wide range of angling situations.
Best Baitcasting: KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rods
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: 6’6″ to 8’0″
- High-density EVA grip
- Floating guides
- Action: Medium Fast to Fast
- Lifetime Limited warranty
Why We Picked it: The KastKing Blackhawk II is an exceptional telescopic fishing rod that offers portability without compromising on performance. Its ultra-light, fast action blank (some models are medium-fast) allows for accurate and sensitive casting, making it ideal for targeting elusive fish like trout or panfish. The rod is equipped with high-quality components, such as stainless steel guides and a high-density EVA grip, ensuring durability and comfort during use.
The KastKing Blackhawk II is equipped with a handle and reel seat design to be fished with a baitcasting reel (there also a spinning version as well). If was pleasantly surprised during our tests of the action of this rod. At least on the shorter versions it feels very close to a 1 pc rod which is a testament to its blank quality.
Pros: One of the biggest pros of the KastKing Blackhawk II is its taper design which results in a great action (for a telescopic rod). The KastKing Blackhawk II provides excellent casting accuracy and sensitivity, allowing you to detect subtle bites from fish with ease. Plus it’s all rounded-off by the limited lifetime warranty.
Cons: The only real downside of the KastKing Blackhawk II that we could find during our tests, was the limited range of rod length (compared to the DAIWA 2021 Legalis Tele Allround for example). The max rod length on this line of rods is 8’0.
In conclusion, the KastKing Blackhawk II are a fantastic option for anglers looking for a portable and high-performance fishing rod. It’s highly versatile since you get can get it for baitcasting or spin fishing styles.
Best Handle: EOW XPEDITE Portable Telescopic Spinning Fishing Rods
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: 6 ft to 7ft
- Ergonomic cork grip
- Stainless steel guides
- Action: Fast
- 1 year warranty
Why We Picked it: Here’s another great option if you’re looking for a solid collapsible fishing rod that features a traditional cork handle: the EOW XPEDITE. Its fast action blank and telescopic design make it perfect for casting with precision and detecting even the most subtle bites. This rod boasts premium components, such as stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts and a comfortable anti-slip EVA grip. The collapsible design allows for effortless transportation and storage, making it an ideal choice for those on-the-go.
The EOW XPEDITE is made of top-quality components that ensure its durability, allowing you to use this rod for years without worrying about wear and tear. Its multiple length options cater to various fishing situations and preferences. The rod’s fast action and telescopic design make it stand out from other rods in the market.
Pros: The most significant advantage of this fishing rod is its portability, thanks to its telescopic and collapsible design, making it easy for anglers to transport their gear without hassle. The fast action blank provides increased casting distance while remaining sensitive enough to detect subtle bites from elusive fish species. The stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts ensure smooth casting and reduce the risk of line friction. The comfortable anti-slip EVA grip provides excellent control during long fishing sessions.
Cons: Despite its many positive features, the EOW XPEDITE does have a few drawbacks. During our test, we experienced a slight compromise in sensitivity when compared to a one-piece rod due to its telescopic design (which like I said before is nothing unusual). Additionally, proper care and maintenance are essential to prevent the rod sections from getting stuck or jammed, which can happen if sand, dirt, or debris gets trapped between sections.
In conclusion, the EOW XPEDITE is a reliable and versatile choice for anglers seeking a high-quality, portable fishing rod. While there are minor drawbacks, its overall performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any fishing enthusiast.
Best Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo: KINGSWELL Telescopic
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: 5.7 ft to 7.9ft
- Split foam grip
- Stainless steel bearings on the reel
- Action: Medium-Fast
- 6 months warranty
Why We Picked it: The KINGSWELL Telescopic is an excellent all-in-one solution for anglers looking for quality, convenience, and performance. The rod features an ultra-light, fast action blank that provides both accuracy and sensitivity, making it an ideal choice for targeting trout and other elusive fish species.
The high-quality components of the KINGSWELL Telescopic ensure durability and longevity, allowing you to use this combo for years without worrying about wear and tear. The rod folds down to only 22″ (which makes it fit into a carry-on) and is made from Japanese graphite. I have to say it cast really nicely considering this entire set comes in at less than $100. The S3000 reel on the KINGSWELL Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo boats an aluminum spool and a max drag of 15lbs (that’s plenty enough if you’re after species such as trout of bass). It’s fit to be fished in saltwater which is definitely a bonus (especially if you’re thinking of getting a telescopic fishing rod since you like to travel).
Pros: The KINGSWELL Telescopic‘s portability is one of its biggest selling points. At only 22″ and featuring a lightweight design there’s no more excuse to not bring your fishing rod along on a trip. The fast action blank offers increased casting distance while maintaining sensitivity for detecting subtle bites from fish like trout or panfish. The inclusion of a reel in the combo simplifies the purchasing process and ensures compatibility between the rod and reel.
Cons: I have to say I was impressed with the KINGSWELL Telescopic during our review process. Everything in this set works really well and the rod and reel are made from quality components. The only question I keep asking myself is: why does such a product only come with a 6 months guarantee?
In conclusion, the KINGSWELL Telescopic is the best collapsible fishing rod and reel and an excellent choice for anglers looking for a convenient and high-quality solution for trout fishing and beyond.
Best Versatility: Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: 6’10” and 7’10”
- Split cork/EVA grip
- 3 different tip sections
- Baitcasting and spinning reel
- 2 year warranty
Why We Picked it: If you want the utmost in versatility and flexibility, the Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod is for you. It is a fantastic choice for anglers who value versatility, portability, and high-quality components. This rod combines the best features of spinning and baitcasting rods, making it an ideal companion for various fishing situations. Let’s take a closer look at why we picked this rod and its pros and cons.
The Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod stands out for its high-quality components, such as stainless steel guides, split cork/EVA grip, and fast action blank. But what really sets this collapsible fishing rod and reel combo apart is the fact that it comes with a spinning and a baitcasting reel. This gives you complete freedom to choose which technique you want to fish.
Pros: This fishing rod and reel set is unique giving you absolutely incredible versatility. I found it to be a lot of fun to fish and to switch between techniques easily. Available in two lengths, the Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod packs down to only 21.2″. Another great feature on this set is the cordura carry case that comes with it. It allows you to easily stow your rod and reel and bring it on any fishing trip you like. To round it all off, the Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod comes with a two year warranty.
Cons: To be honest, I find it hard to find a downside of the Spinning-Baitcast Telescopic Travel Fishing Rod. At barely more than $50 you get a lot of bang for the buck. The only aspect I am a little worried about is the set’s durability since switching between casting styles and reels is going to take its toll on this set.
Best Budget: Magreel Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Specs and Key Features:
- Length: Multiple options available (5.9ft, 6.9ft, 7.9ft, 8.9ft)
- Carbon fiber and fiberglass construction
- Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts
- Reel included: Gear ratio 5.5:1
- Suitable for saltwater and freshwater fishing
- Accessories included: line, lures, hooks, and swivels
The Magreel Telescopic is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers looking for an all-in-one fishing solution. This combo features a telescopic fishing rod made from a blend of carbon fiber and fiberglass, providing a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts ensure smooth casting and reduce line friction. This combo also includes a reel with a 5.5:1 gear ratio and accessories, such as line, lures, hooks, and swivels, making it a complete package for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Why We Picked it: The Magreel Telescopic offers a complete fishing solution with its high-quality components and versatile design. It’s suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, making it a great choice for a wide range of anglers. The included accessories make it easy to start fishing right away without the need to purchase additional items.
Pros: One of the significant advantages of the Magreel Telescopic is its convenience, as it includes everything needed for a successful fishing trip. The telescopic design makes it easy to transport and store, while the carbon fiber and fiberglass construction ensure a durable and flexible rod. The stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts provide smooth casting and reduced line friction. The combo’s versatility for both saltwater and freshwater fishing adds to its appeal.
Cons: The Magreel Telescopic does have some downsides. In my eyes, the included reel is not of the same high quality as the rod, which could necessitate an upgrade for more serious anglers (particularly if you want to fish with it in the salt).
Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth Fly Rod One Color, 12ft
Specs:
- Length: 12ft
- Cork grip
- Lightweight design
- Action: Moderate
- Lifetime warranty
As the last product of this big collapsible fishing rods guide, we want to bring you a product that sets itself apart from the previous ones, since it’s essentially a fly rod: let me introduce you to the Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth Fly Rod One Color, 12ft. This telescopic fishing rod is a so-called Tenkara rod which basically is fly fishing in its simplest form (all you do is attach a fly line to a rod and fish those areas close to you where the fish are often holding).
The Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth Fly Rod One Color, 12ft is highly packable and due to its simplistic design a lot of fun and easy to fish. It’s also a great way to get into fly fishing if you’ve always wanted to try it. Since you don’t have a reel, it prevents you from trying to cast as far as you can (which often doesn’t make sense anyways).
Pros: The Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth‘s lightweight design makes it easy for anglers to transport their gear and spend long hours on the water without fatigue. The moderate action blank allows for precise and delicate presentations, perfect for targeting fish in clear water or when using smaller flies. The cork grip adds comfort during casting, and the lifetime warranty ensures that you’re making a sound investment in your fly fishing gear.
Cons: The main downside we found is that the rod may not be suitable for all fishing situations due to its moderate action and longer length. Anglers who prefer fast action rods or need shorter lengths for tight casting conditions may want to consider other options.
Overall, the Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth is an excellent choice for fly anglers seeking a longer, moderate action rod that excels in delicate presentations. Its lightweight design, comfortable cork grip, and lifetime warranty make it a reliable and valuable addition to any fly fishing arsenal.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Telescopic Fishing Rods
Telescopic fishing rods are a great option for anglers who want to enjoy the convenience of traveling with their gear. They offer a variety of advantages, such as being lightweight and compact enough to fit into backpacks or carry-on luggage, making them ideal for fishermen on the go. However, these types of rods also have some drawbacks that should be considered before purchasing one.
One advantage of telescopic fishing rods is that they can collapse down to a fraction of their full size when not in use. They can be quickly moved around and stowed away in tight spots due to their capacity to contract into a much smaller size when not being used. Additionally, many models are made with high-quality materials like graphite/carbon fiber/fiberglass blanks and stainless steel/SiC inserts for guides which protect your line during fights with big fish – all while remaining affordable.
On the downside, telescopic fishing rods tend to have fragile opening/closing mechanisms which require careful handling when setting up or breaking down your rod after each trip out on the water. Additionally, cheaper models may lack quality construction materials resulting in weaker performance than traditional counterparts; this could mean more breakages over time if you’re an avid fisherman who puts his gear through its paces regularly.
Collapsible fishing rods offer anglers the convenience of portability, but it is important to consider their limitations before making a purchase. Thus, it is wise to evaluate the various telescoping fishing rods available before making a selection.
Key Takeaway: Telescopic fishing rods offer convenience and portability, but come with some drawbacks – namely fragile mechanisms and potentially weaker performance than traditional counterparts. For the avid fisherman who wants to travel light without sacrificing quality or strength, it’s important to do your research before investing in a telescopic rod.
Conclusion on the Best Telescopic Fishing Rod
Telescopic fishing rods offer anglers a great advantage in terms of portability while still providing excellent performance when targeting fish species like bass or trout. Before investing in a telescopic fishing rod, it is essential to conduct thorough research so as to acquire the most suitable one for your needs.
If you are looking for the best telescopic fishing rods, lures and techniques to help you catch more bass while enjoying recreational fishing, then look no further. Our expert advice will ensure that your next angling adventure is a success.
FAQs: Best Telescopic Fishing Rods
What is the best telescope in fishing rod?
The best telescope in fishing rod depends on the type of fishing you plan to do. For bass fishing, a medium-heavy action rod with an 8 foot length and a fast tip is ideal for making long casts. For deep sea or saltwater angling, look for rods that are 10 feet or longer with heavy power ratings and extra-fast tips. If you’re looking for something more versatile, try a telescopic spinning rod which can be adjusted to different lengths depending on your needs. Ultimately, it’s essential to pick the proper apparatus according to your angling objectives; thus, be sure you study what is most suitable for you prior to investing in any gear.
Are telescopic fishing rods any good?
Telescopic fishing rods can be a great choice for anglers looking to save space when transporting their gear. Their portability and adjustable length make them a great choice for anglers who need to conserve space or travel frequently. Telescopic rods also have the advantage of being adjustable in length so they can be used in different environments and with various techniques. However, some telescopic models may not offer as much sensitivity or power as traditional rod designs, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing one. Ultimately, whether a telescopic rod is right for you depends on your needs and preferences as an angler.
Are telescopic poles worth it?
Telescopic poles can be a great investment for anglers and fishermen. Telescopic poles are a great choice for anglers and fishermen on the go due to their lightweight, compact design that allows them to be easily transported. Telescopic poles also provide greater flexibility in terms of length adjustment compared to traditional rods; allowing you to adjust the pole’s length according to your needs or preferences. Additionally, telescopic poles offer increased sensitivity when casting due to their slim profile which makes it easier for bass fishermen and recreational fishers alike detect subtle bites from fish that may otherwise go unnoticed with standard fishing rods. All in all, telescopic poles are worth considering if you’re looking for an efficient way of enjoying your time on the water.
What rod is best for catching big fish?
The best rod for catching big fish depends on the type of fishing you’re doing. If you’re looking to target large bass, a medium-heavy or heavy power rod with a fast action tip is ideal. For larger species like pike and muskie, a heavier power rod with an extra-fast action tip will give you more control over your lure and help keep those bigger fish hooked up. Lastly, if targeting saltwater gamefish like tuna or marlin, look for rods rated for high drag pressures that can handle powerful runs from these hard fighting fish.
Why You Should Trust Our Review
Leonard Friedrich and his team of experienced anglers try new gear every week to give you our honest opinion on the best fishing gear out there. No matter if it’s rods, reels, lines, wading gear or other fishing equipment, we make sure to put it to the test so you know what you’re buying and can make a solid choice. We never get paid for reviews and hence test and review all products with an editorial independence. If you end up purchasing a product through one of the links we provide in this article, we might earn a small commission without an extra cost for you. This helps support our business. Thanks!
