Carp Rods

Carp fishing is one of the most popular angling disciplines – and it’s no surprise to see why. The thrill of catching a monster carp, especially one that hasn’t been seen for a number of years, is unparalleled and anglers from around the globe flock to the nation’s best respected carp waters in order to try their hand at this sport. Although you can carp fish with a pole, carp fishing with a rod and reel is the overwhelmingly more popular option. Not only does a carp fishing rod setup allow you to cast out three (or even four) carp rigs into one swim but, by hooking you gear up to bite indicators and bite alarms, you can fish throughout the night whilst resting in your bivvy. Whether you prefer a quick overnighter or you enjoy longer session carp fishing, without a top quality rod you might as well pack up and go home. This is why we, here at Angling Direct, have worked hard to ensure that you have a cornucopia of top end rods to choose from. As with our entire tackle range, these are priced so that anglers of all budgets and abilities can enjoy the best that the sport can offer. You’ll find rods for as little as £30 in our carp rod range, as well as rods hitting the £600 mark for the extraordinarily dedicated anglers amongst us. However, with most rods middling around in the £50 to £250 region, how do you decide which is the perfect for your needs? Using this quick guide can help you refine your search and pick out your dream carp fishing setup.

First things first, you want to consider the length of your rod. More often than not, the carp rods you’ll see on our site will be 12ft in length. This is generally accepted as the prime length for carp fishing, as it offers you a mix of casting ability and fish playing potential – allowing you to tackle any swim with complete confidence. It also perfectly complements most landing nets, which tend to have handles of approximately 6ft. If you’re fishing on a variety of venues, with standard water heights and snag zones, then a 12ft rod will be ideal for your needs. However, we do also stock longer 13ft rods, which have been growing in popularity over the years. 13ft rods are ideal for tackling the largest carp waters, both here and over on the continent. This is because they offer the benefit of long distance casting, which is an area of the sport which has been growing in popularity over the last decade. Longer rods are also preferred when water levels are high, when fishing with a zig rig, or when you’re casting over an especially snaggy spot.

One feature which tends to differentiate 12ft carp rods from 13ft carp rods is the size of their butt rings. As a general rule of thumb, 12ft rods will be fitted with 40mm butt rings, whereas 13ft rods will be fitted with 50mm rings. This is because the larger the butt ring is, the less friction a line with experience as it comes directly off the reel and the longer the cast is that you can achieve. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule and, thanks to the growing popularity of distance fishing, more and more 12ft rods are being fitted with 50mm butt guides. You will also find the odd 13ft rod fitted with 40mm rings, too. When you’re investing in a rod with a 50mm guide, chances are you’ll want to consider the size of your rod sleeve, quiver, or holdall. Some luggage, particularly if you’ve owned it for a number of years, won’t be kitted out for the larger butt rings.

Both 12ft and 13ft rods, whether they are fitted with 40mm or 50mm butt rings, will be available in a range of test curve options. Test curve refers to the weight required in order to bend the rod tip at a 90-degree angle to the butt and you’ll generally find carp rods offer test curves between 2.75lbs and 3.5lbs. However, this isn’t to say that you won’t be able to find carp rods with test curves outside of these parameters. The test curve that you look for will be determined by the kinds of waters that you fish and the size of the carp that you’re targeting. If you’re fishing fast flowing waters, with a heavy rig, or for large carp, then you’ll want to go for a rod with a heavier test curve. However, if you’re fishing still waters, with lighter terminal tackle, or for smaller carp then a rod with a lower test curve will be better suited to your needs.

Through all of this, it is worth considering the action that the rod can offer. There are lost of different rod actions available, from fast action rods to through action rods, and the exact definition of each action will change depending on the rod supplier. As a general rule of thumb, a good action to go for is a parabolic action. This is sometimes referred to as a progressive action and it offers a mix of fast and through action. Parabolic action rods are preferred due to their ability to offer the sought-after combination of responsive tip action and a powerful butt section. The action of the rod will be determined by a combination of the test curve and the materials at use in the rod blank. The rod blank is the main body of the rod, before any reel seats, guides, or other additions are included. As a general rule of thumb, most top end rods will offer a high modulus carbon fibre blank. Modulus is a stiffness rating, so if carbon fibre has a high modulus rating then it means it is a stiff rod that can perform well under pressure. The methods used to achieve the highest performing rod differ between manufacturers and techniques include super heating the blank and putting the blank under extreme pressure in the production process. All of these different methods are to ensure that the rod can hold its own under high-rotational pressure (or torque) – which is essential when you’re looking to achieve highly accurate distance casts, as well as when you’re retrieving a hard fighting fish that is attempting to kite into snags. Rods on the cheaper end of the spectrum will often use a carbon composite, rather than pure carbon fibre, in order to achieve the desired action.

The handle of the rod is another factor which is worth considering. Traditionally, cork has been used in rod handle manufacture and it is the favoured material of the classic carp angler. Cork does have some benefits over modern alternatives, including its heat retention (for comfort when cold weather angling) and its grip in wet conditions. However, as with all materials, it does have its drawbacks. Some anglers will find that that cork wears and crumbs more quickly than modern synthetic alternatives. Cork is also difficult to clean, so it will show the dirt early on. If you’re an angler who likes to look smart on the bank, cork might offer you the bespoke look you’re after for its first couple of uses but you may find yourself annoyed at the grime it picks up. The second most popular material used in carp rod handles is EVA. This is a plastic composite material which is favoured for its lightweight. It can also be precision manipulated, ensuring that you can enjoy an ergonomic hold on your rod. Like cork, it offers good grip in all weather conditions, however, it is also significantly longer lasting that cork. This means it will last much longer before it begins to show signs of wear – as well as being easily cleaned to preserve the spotless appearance of your tackle. Your rod handle will be finished with a butt cap, which is usually manufactured from stainless steel and engraved with the brand logo. This is designed to protect the blank from damage, as well as to look good!

The final features of your carp rod are known as furnishings. These include your line guides and your reel seat. We’ve already spoken a little about the butt guide on your rod, which is the largest guide that sits closest to the reel on your rod. However, your rod is fitted with guides along its length – approximately one guide per foot of rod. These guides get smaller the further up the rod they go, usually finishing at around the 14mm mark. The way these guides are attached to your blank will differ rod on rod, with some rods offering double or triple leg guides. Your line guides provide a pathway for your fishing line to run along during your cast and retrieve. You’ll find that some rods will offer low-friction or low-abrasion guides. These are designed to accommodate all line types, including monofilament line and braided line. As the name suggests, your reel seat is designed to hold you carp reel in position on your rod. With carp rods, this will most commonly be in the DPS style, although you will find some variation across the board. If the manufacturer is not designing and producing your line guides and reel seat themselves, you’ll probably find that they use Fuji. Fuji is one of the most popular line guide and reel seat manufacturers and they are famous for their high quality of production.

Bonus features that you might find on your carp rods include line clips, for securing your line in place (especially when fishing with a bite indicator setup); hook keeper rings, for keeping your terminal tackle secured against your rod whilst in transit; and isotope slots, for inserting isotopes into the tip section of your rod during low light level angling. All of these can be purchased to fit onto your rod if need be, so these accessories need not determine your rod choice.

As a final note, it is worth remembering that most carp anglers will fish with two, three, or four rods in their setup – with three rods being the most popular choice. This is to allow anglers to target a range of features and distances in one swim, giving the greatest chance of a huge take. This is important to take into consideration when you’re budgeting for your carp rod setup, as you’ll have to multiply your requirements by three. However, it is also worth remembering that Angling Direct offers interest free finance on any order over £300. With fixed monthly repayments, our Direct Credit scheme ensures you’ll be able to enjoy the best of your new tackle without the stress, so your budget need not hold you back from enjoying your tackle.

When it comes to high performance carp fishing rods, Harrison rods and Century rods dominate the upper end of the price bracket. Some brands will produce rods across the price spectrum, including the likes of Daiwa, Shimano, and Fox. Shakespeare rods are loved by beginners and budget anglers alike, as are Wychwood rods.

When you’re looking for carp rods, you might also want to consider a spod or marker rod. Often used as companion rods for a traditional three rod setup, these rods have been designed with specific uses in mind. Spod rods have a higher test curve than traditional carp rods as they are designed to cast out heavy weighted spods. A spod is a rocket or torpedo shaped container that holds boilies or groundbait. These burst open upon impact with the water, releasing your freebie carp bait directly over your rods. As they are able to be quickly filled, cast, and reeled in, they are a really effective way of getting huge quantities of bait out to a feature, quickly and accurately. To accommodate your heavier tackle, spod rods can have test curves up to 5lbs, ensuring that they won’t falter under the pressure of casting heavy baits over long distances. Similarly, marker rods often have a stronger test curve than traditional carp rods and you will find that some rods are listed as both spod and marker rods. The purpose of a marker rod is to find features and position a float near them, giving you somewhere to aim when you’re casting into open water. This ensures your casting accuracy over long periods of time, so you can target the water with precision. Most brands who design main carp rods will also design rods for spodding and marking.

If you would like more information on any aspect of your carp rod, whether that is general information or information about a specific rod, please contact out Customer Services team. You can find all their contact information on their dedicated page. All advice is completely without obligation and, as avid anglers themselves, they will be able to assist with all areas of your order with us today.

 

Although you can carp fish with a pole, carp fishing with a rod and reel is the overwhelmingly more popular option. Not only does a carp fishing rod setup allow you to cast out three (or even four) carp rigs into one swim but, by hooking your gear up to bite indicators and bite alarms, you can fish throughout the night whilst resting in your bivvy. Whether you prefer a quick overnighter or you enjoy longer session carp fishing, without a top-quality rod you might as well pack up and go home.

What Do I Need in a Carp Fishing Rod?

If you’re fishing on a variety of venues, with standard water heights and snag zones, then a 12ft rod will be ideal for your needs. This is generally the prime length for carp fishing, as it offers you a mix of casting ability and fish playing potential. 12ft and 13ft carp rods will also offer carp rods offer test curves between 2.75lbs and 3.5lbs. When shopping for a carp rod, it is a general rule of thumb, to go for a rod with a parabolic action. This is sometimes referred to as a progressive action and it offers a mix of fast and through action. To find out more about different styles of rods for carp fishing, check out our Buyers Guide for Carp Rods over on the AD blog.

You’ll find rods for as little as £30 in our carp rod range, as well as rods, hitting the £600 mark for the extraordinarily dedicated anglers amongst us. However, with most rods middling around in the £50 to £250 region. We stock major brands in the carp rod industry such as Daiwa, Nash, Sonik, Century, Greys and more. 

Carp Rods: Your Perfect Angling Companions

Among the critical components of successful carp angling are carp rods. Precision-engineered, they can withstand the powerful fight of a determined carp. At Angling Direct, we provide a variety of the best carp fishing rods tailored to different fishing styles.

Power and Durability in Carp Fishing Rods

Carving a reputation for excellence among anglers is the 12ft carp rods collection. These rods balance power and flexibility, designed to handle the intensity of battling with bottom-feeding carp. Similarly, the 13ft carp rods extend your casting range, allowing you to reach further into the water without compromising control.

Compact Convenience with 8ft and 10ft Carp Rods

For those seeking convenience without sacrificing capability, consider our 8ft carp rods and 10ft carp rods. These shorter rods provide excellent manoeuvrability for those tight spaces and are perfect for smaller water bodies.

Travel-friendly 3 Piece Carp Rod

For the travelling angler, our selection of 3 piece carp rod options offers easy portability without compromising strength. These rods can be easily disassembled for compact storage and transportation, making them perfect for your carp fishing holiday.

Fishing Carp Rods for Different Techniques

Our broad collection extends to fishing carp rods designed for specific techniques. These include feeder rods, float rods, and stalking rods. Whether you're deploying a float, fishing at the bottom, or prefer stalker tactics, we have the fishing carp rod tailored for your technique.

Invest in the Best Carp Fishing Rods

Our commitment to quality ensures we only stock the best carp fishing rods from top brands such as Harrison, Sonik, Daiwa, Nash, Century, Fox, Greys, Trakker, and Shimano. These brands are recognised for their reliability, ensuring that your carp rod not only performs optimally but also stands the test of time.

Explore our vast range of carp rods and invest in the ideal carp fishing rod for your angling needs today. We are here to help you make the best selection for a memorable fishing experience. Discover the power, precision, and reliability that comes with our top-tier carp rods!

Carp Fishing Rods

Although you can carp fish with a pole, carp fishing with a rod and reel is the overwhelmingly popular option. Whether you prefer a quick overnighter or you enjoy longer session carp fishing, without a top-quality rod you might as well pack up and go home. This page will help you pick a carp fishing rod for your style of carp fishing whether it be stalking, feeder fishing or float.

There are a lot of fishing rods available but a rod for carp fishing needs to be strong and powerful to put up a fight against these bottom feeders! We stock major brands in the carp rods fishing scene such as Daiwa, Nash, Sonik, Century, Greys and more.

Also, a carp fishing rod setup allows you to cast out three (or even four) fishing rods for carp into one swim, you can then use your fishing rod rest to hook up to bite indicators and bite alarms so that you can fish for carp throughout the night whilst relaxing in your carp bivvy

Types of Fishing Rods:

Carp Fishing Rod:

Made for bottom baits and carp battles, a carp rod is powerful and is usually 12ft in length with a 2.5 lb-3.5 lb test curve.

Feeder Rods:

Designed to fish on the bottom for carp, without the use of a float.

Float Rods:

Long, flexible rods that are perfect for casting out light items like floats.

Stalking Rods:

For stalker tactics when carp fishing a shorter rod is used for fishing confined or tight swims at close range.

Travel Rods/ Telescopic Fishing Rods:

A hassle-free rod to carry as it breaks down into smaller sections. Ideal for a carp fishing holiday!


Other rods that carp anglers tend to pick up, but do not need to add to your fishing rod licence is a spod rods and marker rods. Spod rods are for spodding, a type of carp bait delivery and marker rods are for marking out unfamiliar waters.

 

What type of rod is best for carp fishing?

For carp fishing, you'd ideally want to go for a dedicated carp rod. These rods are specifically designed to handle the weight and fight of a carp, providing the right balance of strength and sensitivity. There's a wide variety to choose from, but the most commonly used are the 12-foot, 2.75-3.5lb test curve rods. You might also consider a rod with a good casting weight if you're fishing in larger bodies of water. Brands such as Daiwa, Shimano, and Nash offer some excellent choices, but it's always worth doing a bit of research to find one that suits your personal style and needs.

What size rod do I need for carp fishing?

The size of your carp fishing rod will largely depend on the environment in which you'll be fishing. For most situations, a 12-foot rod is typically the standard. This length provides a good balance of casting distance and control. However, if you're fishing in smaller, more confined spaces, you might find a 10-foot rod gives you better manoeuvrability. For really big waters where casting long distances is necessary, a 13-foot rod might be preferable. But remember, it's not just about size. Look out for the test curve too, usually between 2.75-3.5lb for general carp fishing.

What is the best strength for a carp fishing rod?

Depending on your carp fishing venue, some anglers boast of a medium to a medium-heavy spin fishing rod, with moderate fast to fast action. When shopping for a carp rod, it is a general rule of thumb, to go for a rod with a parabolic action. This is sometimes referred to as a progressive action and it offers a mix of fast and through action. 

How much does a carp fishing rod typically cost?

You’ll find rods for as little as £30 in our carp rod range, as well as rods, hitting the £600 mark for the extraordinarily dedicated anglers amongst us, however, with most rods middling around in the £50 to £250 region. 

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