Boat rods are specially designed for fishing from a boat at sea. Unlike beach rods or casting rods, you fish with a boat rod straight down, directly under the boat. This requires a strong, compact rod that can withstand currents, depth, and large fish. Whether you are wreck fishing for cod or big game fishing for tuna – there is always a boat rod that fits your adventure.
What is a boat rod?
A boat rod is usually short (between 1.80 and 2.40 meters) and designed for vertical fishing. You do not cast, but let your rig with sinkers and bait drop straight down. Because the rod is relatively short, it is easy to handle on board – even if you have multiple anglers on one boat.
The strength of a boat rod is often expressed in LBS (pounds). This indicates how much weight is needed to bend the rod at a 90-degree angle, and thus how much resistance the rod can handle – not the casting weight. The higher the number of LBS, the heavier the fish and conditions you can handle.
Which LBS class do you need?
The choice of boat rod depends on the type of fishing and the fish you want to catch:
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12 lb: Light work, ideal for the Scheldt or other inland waters influenced by the sea
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20 lb: Perfect for mackerel or cod in the North Sea
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30 – 50 lb: For wreck fishing and fishing in strong currents (e.g., Norway)
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80+ lb: Big game fishing for tuna, marlin, and other heavy sea fish
Trolling, jigging or paternoster?
With a boat rod, you can fish in various ways. Many anglers use the rod for:
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Trolling: dragging with lures
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Jigging: fishing with a heavy jig or shad
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Paternoster rig: sinker at the bottom with multiple hooks above
Make sure you always use enough sinkers, especially in currents or when fishing with multiple anglers on one boat. This prevents your line from getting tangled with others.
Travel rods and accessories
Boat rods are also available in convenient travel models. These are multi-piece or telescopic and easily fit in your suitcase – ideal for fishing trips abroad. If you fish with a heavy rod (50 lb+), consider a gimbal holder – a support strap that allows you to firmly secure the rod against your body for more control during the fight.
Boat rods available directly from stock
At De Goeie Vangst you will find boat rods in all types and classes – from light sea fishing on the Scheldt to big game fishing in the tropics. Order on weekdays before 3:00 PM? Then you will have your boat rod at home tomorrow. And from €95 we ship free within the Netherlands and Belgium.
Need help choosing the right boat rod? Feel free to contact us – we are happy to help!
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