An angler, regardless of experience, dreams of catching the biggest fish. But to secure a big catch, he needs the right equipment and must know where, when, and what to look for.
If muskies are in a nearby area, they are a good option because you can catch one of the largest freshwater species native to North America, capable of reaching up to an incredible 70 pounds in weight. The International Game Fish Association has confirmed a current record of 70 pounds musky Fish.
Although it was always a popular fish to catch, Musky fishing has only recently received the well-deserved attention of the fishing- equipment manufacturers. As a result, nowadays you can find a vast array of best musky rods, musky reels, and lures dedicated solely to Muskies.
As always we are here to help you find the best equipment for any purpose, and this time we will concentrate on identifying the best Musky rods you can get. In addition, we’ll guide and advise you on how to bring home that ultimate Musky as catching one is certainly the most exciting freshwater angling experience you could experience.
What is Musky Fish?
![What is Musky Fish](https://fishinglikeboss.com/wp-content/uploads/musky-fish-e1714407726795-300x171.jpeg)
For this reason, we will briefly describe Muskies, which is, in fact, a nickname for a species called Esox masquinongy, which is also known as muskellunge or muscallonge.
Appearance and behaviour of Musky fish.
Where Musky Fish can be found?
Musky lives in clear, fresh waters and defined home-range which they leave only for spawning purposes. When young, they prefer shallow waters, while older population inhabits deeper areas. When fishing for muskies, you should concentrate on areas with rich vegetation, rocks, and edges.
Fishing Muskies is possible almost all year long, but the best season is the fall, especially if you hope for a trophy Musky. These fish have a reputation for being hard to catch and a well-deserved nickname “the fish of 10 000 casts”, so besides proper equipment, arm yourself with patience and keep your focus too.
What things to Consider while you want to choose Best Musky Rods?
![St. Croix Rods Premier Musky Casting Rods best musky Rods](https://fishinglikeboss.com/wp-content/uploads/St.-Croix-Rods-Premier-Musky-Casting-Rods-300x111.jpg)
In the past, there were few options for musky fishing equipment and musky fishing was less popular than it is today. The manufacturers did not design rods with care, and they failed to consider the weight that rods must be able to carry and withstand.
No one knew much about musky fishing, and as a result, the rods were either easily breakable and too light, or too heavy and completely inflexible. The Musky fishing was very difficult and did not appeal to many anglers, which made it unpopular and hindered the further development and research in creating better rods.
Nowadays, the things are completely changed, Musky fishing is very popular, this fish is considered a trophy catch and everyone wants to be a part of this trend. For this reason, the manufacturers compete in creating rods that can withstand the inevitable fight that occurs when you try to catch this agile fish.
Modern Musky rods are equipped with new technology; they are stronger, resistant to breakage, but also flexible and cast well. They can fit almost any lure and are easy to use, which means that even beginners can be successful at catching this evasive fish.
Key Consideration
Today, the anglers are faced with an array of rods, reels, and lures dedicated to Musky fishing, but also with the dilemma which to choose. When it comes to rods you should consider the following parameters:
Size and weight
Musky rods should be long, not shorter than 7.5 feet, but most successful anglers recommend even 9 feet and longer rods. The weight does not guarantee durability nor strength, and it is better to go for the lightweight rods as you are sure to spend numerous hours holding or carrying the rod. And you want to save the strength for the fight once the Musky bites the bait. For this reason, the comfortable grip is also a must.
Material
We recommend that you choose graphite construction, as it provides the strength and hardiness necessary to withstand the weight and aggressiveness of Muskies. This material is also resistant to breakage.
Power range (Tension support)
Musky is a heavy fish so you should go heavy too. Medium-heavy power rods are the minimum you should opt for, but you will be more secure with heavy or extra-heavy action and power rods. You will be able to load them without the risk that they will bend much or break.
Casting ability
Modern Musky rods have better and more varied casting ability than their predecessors and, thus, to the angler’s satisfaction, the number of fish lost is declining. Lengthier rods will allow you to cast further and retain control over the heavier lures. We recommend, and Musky rods usually feature, fast action tips to maximize the cast. The Musky rods are compatible with every lure weight and flexible allowing accuracy and appropriate distance when casting.
Price and warranty
A with most of the things, the high price is not a guarantee of a high quality. It is better to get informed, read as many valid Musky rod reviews you can find and make sure that the rod is covered with a reasonable guarantee period.
Moreover, be sure that you are not going to change your mind and give up on Musky fishing as soon as you face some difficulties which are sure to arise as this is a hard-to-catch fish. Musky fishing is a sport, and like any sport, it requires time and effort to reach success. So, decide if you are willing to invest your effort before you invest your hard earned money.
Top 5 Best Musky Rods Reviews On The Market
St. Croix Triumph Musky Rods
St. Croix Triumph Musky Rods series is another specialized Musky series of this brand that offers a variety of models. These fast action one-peace rods are available in two lengths you can choose from- 7 and 7.6 feet, and two power ranges- medium-heavy and heavy. The single rod weighs up to 9 oz. which can be considered slightly heavy. It is made of strong graphite material, quite convenient for the conditions of Musky fishing. The strong body allows for a lure weight of up to 8 oz. and different jerk baits.
We were greatly impressed by the impeccable casting performance of these rods and were satisfied with their sensitivity and flexibility, making them ideal for heavy-duty use. The craftsmen have created well-crafted items that provide a comfortable and secure grip. For casting and trolling, as well as jigging or drifting, these are suitable. Inshore medium-sized species can be caught using them in saltwater fishing. We prefer the longer rod as it allows for casting further and creating perfect moves needed to win the fight with agile muskies successfully.
In short, St. Croix Triumph Musky Rods are versatile and reasonably priced. The only complaint we have relates to all the rods manufactured by the St. Croix- the warranty should be longer than five years.
Pros
- Perfect casting performance
- Reasonable price
- Versatility
- Exceptional hook setting power
Cons
- No lifetime warranty other brands offer
- Slightly heavy
St. Croix Mojo Musky Rods
St. Croix has always been a brand anglers could rely on, and their Mojo Musky Rods prove that this good reputation is well-deserved. These are one-peace, fast action rods which come in four available lengths from 7.2 feet to 8.6 feet. You can also choose a medium-heavy, heavy or extra heavy tension support. They weigh up to 4 pounds, which is a bit heavy in our opinion, especially as Muskies are fishes that you usually need to wait long. They feature a sturdy SCII graphite construction.
Ideal for long distance casting, these rods are compatible with a number of jerk baits. We recommend opting for the longest rod as it will allow you to cast the bait the farthest. But also enable you to control the changes in the direction of your lure more efficiently. Longer rods also have a greater hook set sweep and permit for a tight line even with a beating fish.
The price is not the lowest on the market, but the quality is also above average. The manufacturer offers a 5-year limited warranty, which we consider rather short. Another thing we do not like is the short fore-grip – smaller than an average male hand it does not allow for a secure hold of the rod.
Pros
- Price and quality ratio
- Genuine Fuji reel seats
- Casts great
- Plenty of power for Muskies
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Short fore-grip
- Short warranty period
St. Croix Premier Musky Rods
St. Croix Premier Musky rods are a bit pricier due to the fact that they are designed and handcrafted in the USA, unlike the similar, already reviewed, Mojo series which is made in Mexico. These fast action rods come in one-peace or two-peace construction made of the premium graphite able to withstand years of use. They are available in three different sizes- 7, 7.6, and 8 feet long. The power range offered gives you four options, which means you are able to choose from medium, medium heavy, heavy and extra heavy tension support capacity.
The two-peace models are especially convenient for those who need to pack their rod or transport them often as they are quite portable. They feel lightweight despite their weight not being light. the doer of the action. Cork handles are long enough to secure a comfortable grip.
The tip is sensitive enough, casting performance quite satisfying too. It is suitable for trolling as well as catching other species such as big bass. The only deal-breaker, especially for those on a tight budget, might be the high price.
Pros
- Well balanced weight
- Available as the two peace model which offers extra portability
- Heavy duty
- Versatile
Cons
- Not suitable for those on a tight budget
- 5-year warranty
Okuma EVX Musky Casting Rod
The Okuma EVx Musky Rod is a one piece, 7′ 4″ inches long, fast tip rod which features a lot of backbone. This heavy power casting rod is feather light as it weighs only 10.4 oz. But also features a sturdy IM-8 graphite blank and is more than suitable for all-day musky angling.
This rod offers an ideal backbone and forms a bending curve which perfectly absorbs the shakes during your fight with the fish, which allows you to obtain a perfect control over the fish you catch no matter its size, strength or agility. Fish will certainly have slim chances of escaping if you use EVx Okuma rod. It casts far and steadfastly, can handle both light and heavy lures and a lot of weight, probably more than you will ever require it to.
The Okuma EVx Musky Rod is also highly affordable and thus a good choice for anglers on a controlled budget. The limited lifetime warranty makes one feel secure in the quality of this rod. We would prefer a bit more length, but it is altogether a good product.
Pros
- Fuji premium graphite reel seats
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Original Fuji reel seat
Cons
- A bit short, which limits some moves
Tica MNSA Musky Rods Fishing Rod
Tica MNSA Musky Rods Fishing Rod is the only two peace rod included in our Musky rods reviews. It features a telescopic design which together with the low weight allows for increased portability. Namely, you can slide the top part of the rod into the lower section. And thus significantly decrease its length making it easy to transport and store. However, this design calls for some extra care as it might make the rod prone to breakage in the area between the first guide and the handle.
These graphite construction rods come in three different setups. 8 feet long with heavy power, 8 feet extra heavy, and 8.6 feet heavy tension support. They are all fast action rods but offer a lot of backbone to handle the heavy Muskies too. They balance stiffness and flexibility quite successfully. Tica MNSA rods are also a good choice for catching bass and catfish and can even serve for saltwater angling.
They are the cheapest option, great for those who are only just starting this sport. And those on a low budget. On the downside, the warranty is available only on request.
Pros
- Affordability
- Portability
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Prone to breaking
- Warranty only on request
Conclusion
St. Croix Triumph are definitely the best Musky rod, as they balance the price and quality. And offer all you need to catch yourself a Musky worth showing off to fellow anglers. Waste no time, buy your preferred model today and enjoy the merits of Musky fishing!