Sometimes as an angler, you want to head out and just have some fun. This is where you would want to have the best ultralight fishing rod in your arsenal.
Using such rods, your hook would feel like it has caught the Kraken every time.
The reason behind this is straightforward. The design idea behind ultralight rods renders extreme sensitivity to it. You would be feeling the slightest tug even from small-sized bluegills, but still, the fight will be exhilarating.
If you are in a hurry and just want to find out which is the best ultralight fishing rod, then we’d recommend the St. Croix Premier Spinning Rod as the best one.
Best Ultralight Rods for Fishing
- UglyStik Elite Spinning Rod
- KastKing Calamus Ultralight Spinning Rod
- St. Croix Premier Spinning Rod (Top Pick)
- Shimano Stimula 2-Piece Spin Rod (Budget Buy)
- UglyStik GX2 Spinning Rod
- Cadence CR5 Spinning Rod
Compare Top Ultralight Fishing Rods
| Product | Our Rating | Bottom line | Latest Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Ugly Stik Elite | 86 | Lots of sensitivity due to the extra graphite percentage | Check Out On Amazon |
Kastking Calamus | 88 | Incredibly lightweight and fairly priced option offering great sensitivity | Check Out On Amazon |
ST. CROIX Premier | 90 | 
Our winner and your best bet in the ultralight rod section | Check Out On Amazon |
SHIMANO Stimula | 75 | 
Better performance expected | Check Out On Amazon |
Ugly Stik GX2 | 85 | Most pocket-friendly option but not meant for serious anglers | Check Out On Amazon |
Cadence CR5 | 87 | A lot of value at a very low price | Check Out On Amazon |
Detailed Analysis of the Best Ultralight Fishing Rods
Ultra light fishing rods magnify your fight tenfold.
If you and your angler buddies do a lot of back-country trekking, hiking etc. to find your next favorite fishing spot then you do realize how a heavy fishing pole can ruin your day.
We aim to tire ourselves after a good day of fishing and not by carrying fishing gear around.
Luckily for us anglers, ultralight rods exist to make our lives easier. From being light as a feather to slim like a stick, they make it super easy for us to travel around with them.
However, finding an ultra light spinning rod that does the job well is not a child’s play. Even the most experienced anglers tend to struggle with so much information in hand.
I also understand your frustration with so many options around. If you’re here to find the best ultralight rods, then you need not look further.
After comprehensive testing and the research, I have a list of best ultralight rods currently topping the charts in the market. Here are my prized picks.
It is evident from the comparison table above that St. Croix Premier emerged as the winner among the best ultralight fishing rod competitors.
Scoring high across various parameters, it took home the ‘Top Pick’ award. Let us try and understand in detail why did it stand out and how other rods fared.
1. UGLY STIK Elite Spinning Rod
Overall Score: 86
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Strong and durable
- Easy to travel with
Disadvantages
- Small reel seat
- Cork handle feels uncomfortable to some
- Braided line tears apart the guides
Comfort
Comes with a great soft cork handle that provides a comfortable grip all day long while fishing. Though the cork handle has a gap in between which has caused discomfort in a few cases.
Being more lightweight than the GX2 model, they are definitely an upgrade. Also, its size makes it easy to transport and carry around.
Durability
Made with 35% more graphite, the Ugly Stik Elite is notably tough, refined and sturdy. High-quality guides allow this rod to take a lot of hits and we will never have to worry about popping out of inserts.
Claimed to be “virtually indestructible” by the company, it is almost impossible to believe when this rod impresses us with its sensitivity and flexibility.
But Ugly Stiks are not a made of graphite completely, rather they have a fiberglass-graphite hybrid composition.
This has been done so as to keep the cost lower and also to make sure that the rod indeed shows “indestructible construction” with substance. Thus the result is a small performance hit.
Catch your favorite fishes like the jacks, snappers and sharks without worrying about the rod snapping into two.
It can pull in large fishes comfortably and have been known to accommodate the likes of trouts below one pound and salmons weighing roughly around twenty-eight pounds.
Functioning
The Ugly Stik not only casts well but is known to provide plenty of sensitivity at the tip and can detect a slight nibble too.
Additionally, the signature ‘Clear Tip’ by Ugly Stik makes it even more sensitive despite the presence of a stiff and sturdy construction.
The reel seat might be a simply exposed blank and that can be a cause of concern to some but we also need to consider cushioned stainless steel hoods.
They firmly keep the reel in place when it is required during the most crucial times. Ultralight to medium-heavy is the range of the rod action in this series.
However, the main problem area are the guides and a braided line. If you are someone who really prefers using braided line, then you might want to consider a different rod. This one is not for you.
Moreover, a small reel seat causes frustration to the anglers when they realize the reel that they would absolutely love to use doesn’t even fit.
Ugly Stik promises to give you an awesome feeling, making even Sparkling gourami feel like a Beluga.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
Since it is extremely durable, the manufacturers have literally termed this rod as “bomb-proof”. A graphite-fiberglass construction makes it both strong and sensitive at the same time.
And lastly, one-piece stainless steel guides (Ugly tuff) impart this rod the ability to resist corrosion.
Thus, this rod has been found to be very durable with an extremely rare occurrence of the rod breaking into two and that too due to mishandling.
Hence, you can practically forget about the cost of maintenance and repair.
Price
An extremely affordable rod that offers impressive performance for both amateurs as well as experienced anglers.
Termed as an all-rounder by some, the price point is pretty savvy and it becomes really difficult to choose some other option given the features and its market reputation.
I also suggest you check out my detailed Ugly Stik Elite review for more cool info on this rod.
2. KASTKING Calamus Ultralight Spinning Rod
Overall Score: 88
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Extreme sensitivity
- Unique appearance and feel
Disadvantages
- The lower handle can bother you
Comfort
Kastking Calamus’s USP is that it is a lightweight rod. Anglers just love the fact that the rod is so light.
With the exception of the 4’6″ rod, all other models are two-piece designs which make it extremely easy to carry around.
Some of my testers were uncomfortable with the lower handle when they used the rod for a long period.
Durability
Weighs approximately just three ounces despite such a robust construction.
All the credit goes to its ultra-light IM7 blanks (micro-polished) which not only have a graphite core of high-density but are also reinforced by the second layer of carbon tape.
And this is not all, the Calamus further boasts a 2-piece SKSS reel seat which accompanies a split-type handle. The material used in the handle? Premium quality EVA.
Due to premium titanium and similar high-quality materials used in construction, I haven’t heard any complaints about its longevity yet except a couple of cases of snapping tips while the rod was in use.
Functioning
Available in a lot of lengths (4’6″ to 7′), the KastKing Calamus Ultra-Light Weight Spinning Fishing Rod powers in the ultralight to medium-heavy range.
Rated for 2-6lbs line weight, the rod also has a capacity for one-by-sixteen to one-by-four ounces of lure weight. Additionally, the sensitivity is commendable.
Modified spigot ferrules deliver exceptional performance.
The guides (including tip) are made of premium V-Mark titanium frames and rings which help increase its sensitivity to an extent where it can detect even slight nibbles.
Just a handful of users found it to be stiff for the action it is rated at.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
With no occurrences of damaged rods and KastKing’s incredible ‘Total Peace of Mind Warranty’, these beauties are a force to reckon with and score really high in this area.
Price
Being in the price range similar to Ugly Stik Elite, these two were bound for a head-on collision and the ratings above aren’t different from each other.
Overall, KastKing’s Calamus is a great and fairly-priced option.
3. ST. CROIX Premier Spinning Rod
Overall Score: 90
Advantages
- Superb casting experience
- Comfortable handles
- Impressive guides
- Great sensitivity
Disadvantages
- A bit pricey but worth every buck
Comfort
Despite facing tough competition from the likes of the trusted Fenwick and other brands, St. Croix has been able to carve its own niche.
Now I’m not saying that Fenwick’s rods aren’t good–they are excellent to be precise–but St. Croix is getting better and better day by day.
With a superb quality cork furnishing the rod’s long handle, there is plenty of space for even a giant’s hands to cast comfortably.
The presence of premium cork handles, braided superline ready aluminum oxide eyelets, this rod is an angler’s dream. And what about frequent travelers like me, you ask?
St. Croix series includes the finest four-piece travel rods which are something you will not find anywhere else in the market.
Now if you are someone who prefers split handles, Fenwick should be your most preferred alternative.
Durability
This rod is everything you have been trying to find till now. Not only it is strong and well-balanced. It uses a high-end graphite manufacturing process.
Fishing for bass, walleye, trout or any other similar ones? This rod is your go-to rod and will handle them all, no worries.
Despite being ultra-lightweight it packs in some serious strength. How long will it last? Your line will snap way before the Premier does.
Functioning
Features a fast action, it is equally capable of providing the sensitivity you strive for. Moreover, it comes with a cushioned hookset for fish like crappie.
The premium-quality aluminum oxide guides pamper our line like a newborn baby.
To top it all, a finely tuned fast action sensitivity is like the icing on the cake. Casting is expectedly outstanding, irrespective of the lure size.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
Standing out in all the departments above, it includes with it a very generous warranty, thus making it a killer deal.
Price
If you have some extra bucks to spend, don’t save them unnecessarily because this is arguably the best ultralight rod available. St. Croix doesn’t find a competitor easily.
Edging out premium competition like the G. Loomis rods, with its fast action, these rods are available at half the price.
St. Croix Premier has been a provider of luxury fishing experience at prices which might seem a bit high at first but are worth it when you look back at the times you had problems with other cheap and popular alternatives.
4. SHIMANO Stimula 2-piece Spin Rod
Overall Score: 75
Advantages
- Amazingly sensitive
- Flexibility with fast action
Disadvantages
- Known durability issues
- Better rods available in terms of balance
Comfort
The Stimula series is yet another great option available to you. The Stimula 2-piece spinning rod series has only one ultra light fishing pole with the length being 5’6”.
The other one is a medium and is 7′ long. The ultra light rod is a two-piece which makes it easy to travel with.
Unlike Shimano’s FXS collection, this series comes with cork handles. With a fore and rear grip on the long handle for extra control, it fairs well in the comfort department.
Consisting of a bright red blank and light-colored cork handle, it promises a unique look than most rods out there.
Durability
Though the Stimula rod series was created by Shimano to ensure durability, there have been some cases of the rod snapping into two pieces.
The rod does win some points for flexibility and sensitivity but loses a lot more due to durability issues. One has to be fairly gentle with the rod and guides, else all hell would break loose.
Functioning
The rod is capable enough to take on a variety of fish. It packs in fast-action, that too while being flexible.
Composed of lightweight aluminum oxide guides and a hook keeper for convenience, expect this rod to perform really well.
Shimano specifically introduced this rod for anglers who love to hook in fishes like smaller bass, panfish, and trout.
A super-simple, no frills-type rod, it gets the job done at the end of the day.
Although made for smaller fishes, there have been several instances where the rod held up pretty well under the weight of larger fishes.
A heads-up though: make sure to measure the reel you’d like to use as the reel seat is not large enough to accommodate all sizes.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
Expect some more bucks to be spent on the rod over time as durability is not one of the rod’s strongest point despite the company specifically bringing out the series for the same.
Price
It comes along at a particular price point which can be considered high by some and still fails to deliver on the durability aspect.
Other than that it is an awesome buy considering the balance between flexibility and rod action.
If you are looking for a good light spinning rod or as a beginner your first one, this can be a good option but there are better options out there.
5. UGLY STIK GX2 Spinning Rod
Overall Score: 85
Advantages
- Many lengths to choose from
- Good sensitivity
- Impressive eyes
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for braided lines
- Some users find it a bit stiff
- Thick foam grip takes out some sensitivity factor
Comfort
With a modern and sleek design, the long handles are made up of EVA foam, which makes it lightweight and soft.
Durability
Made with good quality materials you can expect a fair performance in this area. The rod is a graphite-fiberglass combo, and comes with sensitivity, strength, and durability.
Featuring stainless steel guides, the Ugly Stik GX2 eliminates insert pop-outs.
Since Ugly Stik is known for its durable rods, GX2 series lives up to this reputation. Although you would find it a little bit stiff, it isn’t to the limit which can be a ‘no-no’ point for you.
This rigidity is fairly important as you will be able to use this rod for a variety of fishing styles without having any fear whatsoever that the rod will break or crack.
Functioning
The Ugly Stik GX2 spinning rod is available in several different lengths that are rated to be ultralight in power.
Ranging from 4’6” to 7-foot, it allows tremendous versatility depending upon the fishing style of an angler.
Being better balanced than the ones before, this series has its own downsides, namely the thickness of the handles and inability of the stainless steel guides to work with all types of lines.
Also, sometimes the halves won’t stay seated and you have to screw them back tightly.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
With the Ugly Stik series being known for its durability, the GX2 is no exception. You won’t be harassed with constant demands of repair from the rod as it has been designed to serve you for a long time.
But some users have reported that the rod developed grooves with a braided line and thus needed regular repairs.
Price
Comes at an extremely low price point which has made it supremely popular among the masses.
If you are only starting your fishing experience then it can be a pretty decent buy, but it is probably not the best option out there for serious anglers.
Do check out my Ugly Stik GX2 Review to know more about this wonderful rod!
6. CADENCE CR5 Spinning Rod
Overall Score: 87
Advantages
- A great bang for your buck
- Its sensitivity will impress you
- Eyelets leave a lasting impression
Disadvantages
- Fore-grip will get loose over time
- Not as aesthetically pleasing
- Reel seat gets loose
Comfort
Whether you are trying to catch a bass, a walleye, or a trout or whether you are going for those high-demand inshore lures, namely the redfish, flounder and spotted trout, this rod magnifies your freshwater catching ability.
With two variants in handles, you can either choose the split grip or go with a full grip system.
The Cadence CR5 has been made with both cork and EVA to make it very functional and super comfortable. Apart from being very light in weight, it also comes in various length and sizes.
Long hours of use has known to cause some discomfort though. Otherwise, it is a pretty comfortable one.
Durability
With the construction material consisting of 30-ton graphite which imparts durability and the stainless steel guides put in the ability to resist corrosion significantly.
I was amazed by the fact that this rod has been with its owners for a relatively long time than most rods in this price range.
Functioning
Needless to say, high-grade materials that have been used in the construction deliver royal quality and supreme fishing experience.
Designed to provide multipurpose fishing functionality, the performance and durability are increased exponentially with easy to adjust Fuji reel seat and SiC guides.
You might see a bend when hauling a lure, but still, the rod has enough power to pull in nice fish.
But the annoying fact is that the reel seat gets loose pretty often and the fore-grip on the handle can hamper the way the rod functions.
Maintenance & Repair Cost
A sturdy construction and durable designing minimize the cost of repair and maintenance. There have been no known issues yet with this rod which can be termed as a deal breaker.
Price
Despite being from an unpopular brand, the performances of this rod have far exceeded the expectations of all the anglers.
Packing in features and value almost twice the price, you are guaranteed to have a pleasant experience with the Cadence CR5.
Know the Fish Type You’re After
Hope I was able to explain what would be our preferred rod when it comes to ultralights and why I chose the St. Croix Premier Spinning Rod as our top choice among all.
Choosing the best ultralight spinning rod should no more be a difficult and brain busting chore. Just remember to know the type of fish you aim at targeting.
Most anglers do not think about the obvious and often buy ultralight rods to target the fish they’re not meant for.
You cannot expect to haul a trailer with a thread meant for flying kites!