When we fish for bass in shallow water with lots of obstructions, we naturally gravitate to the flipping method. We, like many other anglers before us, realize that not all rods are built to execute this movement. If you want to perfect this technique, then you need the best flipping rod around.
Of course, the top options aren’t always immediately obvious. While quite a few rods will promote themselves as such, they don’t really live up to the hype. This is why we took the time to consider the various models on the market and to put them through their paces. Here is what we found out:
Best Flipping Rods
What to Look for in a Good Flipping Rod
These are the main features to consider when looking for a great flipping rod:
Length
When executing the flipping technique, you need to be in close proximity to the fish. Being too close, however, means that you increase the risk of scaring the fish off. This is why when you pick a flipping rod, you should opt for something a little longer.
As a rule of thumb, most anglers will select something between 7’6” and 8’. However, a couple of factors come into play here. So, you need to make sure that you are picking something that is suitable for you.
If you are only just starting out, a slightly shorter rod might be a bit better. This gives you the opportunity to perfect your flipping technique. Rods around 7’4” are a good place to start. Once you have gained more experience, then you can graduate to something longer.
In case you are a taller or bigger angler, then it would make sense to go for a longer one. This is also true when you are fishing around cover and might chance upon a larger bass.
Read : Bass Fishing Rods
Power
It goes without saying that most bass will put up a bit of a fight. Adding to this, when flipping, you will have obstacles in the water to contend with as well. Due to this, you need a rod that is a little heavier.
Look for one that is medium-heavy to heavy for the best results. This will make getting the hook-set easier. Furthermore, you will find it simpler to fight and lift the fish out of the water.
Also Read: Spinnerbait Rods
Tip
With the flipping technique, it is all about proper presentation. In short, you need to drop the bait right on top of the bass. Due to this, you need to pick a rod that has a little bit more flex at the tip. If the tip is too stiff it will negatively impact both your accuracy as well as your casting distance. Something with a little more spring, on the other hand, allows you to improve your presentation.
Line Weight
The flipping technique combined with the average size of the bass means that you will be using fishing line with a test weight of over 8lbs, at least. As a result, you should be looking for a rod with a line weight that is between 10lbs and 25lbs. This will ensure that you are ready for whatever your fishing expedition throws at you.
Read Also: Best Ultralight Spinning Rods
Durability
Once the hook is set, you can expect most bass to put up quite a fight. This is why a durable rod is key, particularly if you would like to keep using the same one for multiple fishing trips. Consider rods with blanks that are made from either graphite or carbon fiber for a tougher rod.
Versatility
Now, there is a good chance that you don’t just want a rod only for flipping. If you want to be able to use the same rod in different environments, you may also want to consider versatility. While this isn’t a major component, it can certainly help to cut down on the hassle of lugging around different kinds of fishing rods.
Flipping Rod Reviews
Let’s take a look at how the top flipping rods on the market perform:
KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rod
- AMAZING QUALITY CARBON FIBER BLANK - All Perigee II two-piece fishing rods are constructed with...
- PREMIUM COMPONENTS - KastKing uses the best quality components in a Perigee II fishing rod. World...
- SMOOTH POWER - KastKing PTS (Power Transition System) hybrid spigot joints in Perigee II 2-pcs rods...
- STEP UP - Throw away your old technology ugly fishing pole and step into the future of fishing with...
- BEST VALUE –KastKing Perigee II graphite fishing poles are one of the best value rods in the...
This flipping rod is a great option for a beginner who is still learning the ropes. The shorter length will make it easier to master your flipping technique.
The rod also works well for other types of fishing and techniques, making it a good investment for any angler.
What We Like:
- Good Quality Blank: this rod boasts carbon matrix KastFlex technology that ensures that it is durable and tough enough to withstand anything that bass might throw at it.
- Good Quality Components: the rest of the components are also well made. This includes the Fuji O-Ring line guides, graphite high-strength reel seats, and the high-density EVA grips.
- Appropriate Power: this is a heavy power rod that ensures that you will have no trouble dealing with more energized bass.
- KastKing Power Transition System: the rod takes it one step further with the PTS technology, ensuring that the power is transitioned smoothly throughout the rod.
- Versatile: the rod is just as suitable for casting as it is for flipping.
What We Don’t Like:
- Mediocre Tip: the tip isn’t as durable as the rest of the rod
Okuma Scott Martin Tournament Concept Rod
- Scott Martin designed rods for tournament concept fishing
- All rods have been designed for specific tournament applications
- 30-Ton carbon, ultra sensitive blank construction
- Customized C-40X carbon reel seats on casting and spinning
- Hard aluminum oxide guide inserts for use with braided line
As the name suggests, this is a rod that has been specifically designed to meet tournament standards. So, if you are a pro angler then you will enjoy all that it has to offer.
What We Like:
- Sensitive Blank: made from durable carbon, this blank is about as sensitive as it gets. You will be able to feel every nibble at your lure.
- Good Components: the other components are well-built too with aluminum oxide inserts and carbon reel seats.
- Good Power: the heavy power on this flipping rod ensures that you will have just the right amount of backbone to reel in feistier bass.
- Great Balance: there is an ideal ratio between weight and balance allowing you to execute the flipping technique without any issue at all.
What We Don’t Like:
- Value: when compared to other models, this rod doesn’t offer the best value for money.
Lew’s American Hero Speed Stick Flipping Rod
- Premium IM7 graphite blank
- Stainless steel guides with stainless steel inserts
- Lew’s exclusive graphite skeletal reel seat
- Split grip EVA handles
- AH60MCP model features Pistol Grip EVA handle
If you don’t want to break the bank but also need a good quality flipping rod, then this is the make and model for you.
Complete with high-quality features and excellent design, this is the perfect addition to any angler’s collection.
What We Like:
- Good Construction: this is certainly one of the more durable flipping rods on this list. This is largely due to the fact that the blank is constructed from premium IM6 blanks.
- Great Power: the heavy power combined with the fast action means that you will be able to set the hook without any hassle at all. You can say goodbye to missing out on bass anymore.
- Great Grip: the EVA foam grips are comfortable and slip-resistant, allowing you to hold onto your rod even the bass are really active.
- Good Line Test: the wide range of line test gives you permission to go after bass of all weights and sizes.
What We Don’t Like:
- Wire Hook Keeper Position: it is located in an inconvenient spot making it virtually impossible to use.
Dobyns Rods 766FLIP Champion Series
- BUILT FOR: Flippin' Stick. The Champion XP Series is sensitive, light, strong and balanced at an...
- EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY: Dobyns Rods are designed and created by bass fishing legend Gary Dobyns. These...
- PINPOINT ACCURACY: Constructed by anglers, this perfectly balanced rod offers max sensitivity from...
- FOR EVERY SITUATION: Each rod is tailored to provide outstanding performance for every application....
- CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: Dobyns Rods values the satisfaction of our customers by offering a Limited...
If you are more experienced with the flipping technique, then this rod will be the perfect fit for you.
You will be able to keep your distance from the fish while being able to get them on the hook in quick fashion.
What We Like:
- Great Blank: made from high modulus graphite, you can be certain that this blank is equal parts durable and sensitive. It is just what you need for the flipping technique when bass fishing.
- Good Features: with SiC guide inserts and a Fuji reel seat, this is an all-round well-built rod that offers up a smooth performance each and every time.
- Heavy Duty: the heavy power combined with the strong backbone means that this rod is capable of catching a true monster.
What We Don’t Like:
- Not Very Versatile: this is a rod that is specifically built for flipping so you may not find any other use for it.
KastKing Speed Demon Pro Tournament Rod
- Elite Carbon Blanks & Nano Resin Technology - Speed Demon Pro rods start with our own Elite Carbon...
- Fuji Guides/Reel Seats & WINN Grips - Only the finest Fuji guides and reel seats are used to ensure...
- 15 Technique Specific Actions & Lengths - We've design each action based on years of experience and...
- Lightweight Composite S-Glass Crankbait Rods - The Speed Demon Pro crankbait rods use a composite...
- True Tournament Performance Rod - We've spared no cost in building these rods to ensure that they...
This is a beautifully designed rod and will certainly make any pro happy, regardless of whether or not you are competing.
The hi-tech features ensure that you are more likely to get the bass that you are after.
What We Like:
- Beautifully Constructed: this rod boasts an elite carbon blank and nano resin technology. As a result, you get to enjoy a wonderful balance between lightweight and extreme durability.
- High-Quality Features: the Fuji guides and reel seats don’t just ensure quality, they also provide a smooth and unbeatable performance.
- Good Power: with heavy power, fast action, and a great backbone, you will have to expend very little effort even when tangling with more vigorous bass.
What We Don’t Like:
- Low Versatility: the rod is specifically designed for flipping and so you will discover that it doesn’t translate very well for other types of fishing.
Dobyns Rods Fury Series Flipping Rod
- BUILT FOR: Flippin' Stick. The Fury Series is sensitive, light, strong and balanced at an...
- EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY: Dobyns Rods are designed and created by bass fishing legend Gary Dobyns. These...
- PINPOINT ACCURACY: Constructed by anglers, this perfectly balanced rod offers max sensitivity from...
- FOR EVERY SITUATION: Each rod is tailored to provide outstanding performance for every application....
- CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: Dobyns Rods values the satisfaction of our customers by offering a Limited...
If you are looking for comfort while fishing, this rod will certainly provide that for you. You will be able to fish for hours with this rod in hand.
As an added bonus, this rod is designed for flipping but is wonderfully versatile at the same time.
What We Like:
- Great Blank: made from high modulus graphite, this blank is incredibly durable. At the same time, it also boasts excellent sensitivity too.
- Excellent Components: from Kevlar wrapped high-performance guides to Fuji reel seats, this flipping rod has everything that you need for the smoothest experience. Furthermore, all of these components are incredibly long-lasting as well.
- Comfortable: with premium cork handles, this works well for anyone who finds it difficult to grip rods for a long time. The comfort factor also ensures that you can fish for longer periods of time.
- Versatile: despite being specially designed for flipping, you shouldn’t have any trouble using this rod for casting.
What We Don’t Like:
- Medium Power: while the rod works well for smaller or less energetic bass, you will have some trouble when trying to catch anything bigger.
Best Flipping Rod
All of these flipping rods go above and beyond when it comes to the flipping technique. That being said, there is one that does stand out in particular. This would be the KastKing Perigee II rod. It is built to be durable, offers up great power, and is suitable for all kinds of anglers. Just as important is the fact that it works well in a number of different environments. In short, it was our top pick from the very beginning.
Some FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding flipping rods:
What Kind of Rod Do You Use for Flipping?
For the flipping technique, you need slightly longer rods that are durable and have a medium to heavy power. This will make it easier to maintain control while fishing from a distance in areas of great cover.
How Do You Flip While Fishing?
With flipping, you pull a length of line off the reel. Then, you use the rod to swing the bait into the area that is populated with the bass.
What is the Right Size for Flipping Rods?
The right size for flipping rods depends on your requirements. Most flipping rods are between 7’6” and 8’, however.
Can You Only Use Flipping Rods for the Flipping Technique?
Flipping rods have been specially designed to make it easier to execute the technique. Therefore, when you use a flipping rod you are more likely to be successful.
Can a Beginner Use a Flipping Rod?
Yes, beginners can use a flipping rod. To make it easier to work, though, you should start with a shorter rod.
These are the main things you need to know about selecting the best flipping rod for your next fishing trip. The information here, combined with the reviews, should make it a breeze to pick out the perfect rod.
This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI
