Landing a monster carp is every angler's dream, but it takes the right carp fishing rod to make it a reality. The cornerstone of your carp-catching arsenal is undoubtedly your rod and while top-tier rods can command hefty price tags, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy successful carp fishing. However, with countless options out there, choosing the right length and test curve can be a bit of a head-scratcher.
If you're looking to cast short to mid-range, a 10ft rod with a 2.5lb or 2.75lb test curve is a solid starting point. For those needing to bomb it out to the horizon, upping the ante with a 12ft or 13ft rod and a 3.5lb+ test curve model is the way to go.
Best budget carp rods under £100
Carp can be found almost anywhere in freshwater in the UK, with specimens reaching impressive sizes. Whether you're fishing with PVA bags on your local commercial fishery or casting big leads over long distances on a large gravel pit, having the right gear is crucial. The guide below highlights some of the best carp rods available for under £100, ensuring you have the right tools to catch more carp on a budget.
How we test the best carp rods under £100
These budget carp fishing rods were tested by experienced members of the Angling times team. We have been using and abusing rods like these for decades and have probably used most, if not all of them during our time on the bank, so we know the best from the rest!
Our tackle testers, Mark Sawyer and James Furness have been testing a variety of carp rods under £100 in varying scenarios, from long range angling and PVA bag fishing to stalking on smaller lakes! These rods have been bent in half and fully compressed to see how capable they are of propelling leads over 100 yards, to ensure they can reach pressured carp on day tickets and syndicates. Tested on runswaters for smaller fish to more difficult pits with big fish to ensure whatever carp fishing you enjoy, there is a rod for you in this list.
Our decision process of what makes the best carp rods under £100 takes into account various factors including value, casting ability, build quality, fish playing action and usability to ensure we can give you the best advice on factors that will make an actual different to your angling.
The following list includes a mixture of our favourites for carp fishing in the UK and Europe! Find out how we test our gear, HERE.
Best Carp Rod under £100 (2024 National Angling Awards Winner)
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The Kaizen Green Carp Rod series delivers exceptional performance, drawing on the same engineering expertise as its Platinum counterpart.
Built with durable, high-performance materials, these rods feature a fast-tapered action, providing precise casting whilst helping you cast further . Equipped with premium Seaguide guides and a secure reel seat, the Kaizen Green ensures robust and reliable performance. Available in a range of lengths and casting weights to suit your fishing style, this series is a must-have for any serious carp angler.
I chose to take out the 10ft, 3.5lb TC Kaizen Green rods as they are in my opinion the best carp rods for the majority of UK angling in this pairing. When testing these rods, I found it incredibly hard to believe they were available for under £100 in the 10ft version, (£120 in the 12ft) that is how good these rods are, there are certainly others on the market that are almost three times the price that don't stand upto these rods in terms of power or fish playing action. Despite being the budget end of the Korda range, these rods are superb and they will add distance to your casts.
Korda built the Kaizen range to be casting tools and they certainly are that! I also admired the minimalist finish on the rods too, and a set of three will fit in wherever you take them, from the hallowed banks of Yateley to the busy swims of Linear and they will catch perform well above their price tag from both!
The 10ft models, available in 3, 3.5, and 4lb test curves, can be purchased for under £100, offering great value for money which are perfect for short session and boat work!
Pros
- Fast tapered action will improve casting distances
- Premium components
Cons
- Only 10ft model available under £100, 12ft & 13ft model more expensive
The HERO-X series redefines value for money, offering rods that boast a slim, lightweight, and sleek black carbon blank—a significant upgrade from their popular predecessors. The progressive casting action ensures effortless casting and lightning-fast tip recovery, making these rods ideal for accurate presentations and those who prioritise distance in their fishing.
I recently tested the 10ft 3lb test curve model rods but they are also available in 12ft and 13ft versions.To put it bluntly, I was amazed that a carp rod of such quality can be produced for just £49.99! They’ve got features that would, not so long ago, only be found on considerably more expensive models. These include anti-frap tip guides, 50mm butt rings, full Japanese shrink wrap handles and secure DPS reel seats.
My tactics on the day involved casting solid PVA bags with a 2oz lead over to a set of reeds, which the rods handled without any issues while also have plenty of backbone to get the fish in without any issues.
Despite their affordability, the HERO-X rods deliver impressive performance. The super-light M-SERIES DL black guides ensure smooth line flow, while the durable anti-frap ceramic tip ring eliminates tangles and frustrations.
Whether you're tackling monster carp or using large PVA bags, the HERO-X’s 17mm black DPS reel seat keeps your reel securely locked in place, providing ultimate control during the fight. This series truly combines high-end features with a budget-friendly price, making it a great choice for any angler.
YOU CAN WATCH MARK'S FULL REVIEW ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE...
Pros
- Value for money
- Light and responsive
Cons
- Basic aesthetic, if looks matter may not be for you
Brand new from the Fox stable are the EOS X Carp Rods, which have been designed and developed with value in mind. Not every angler wants to or can afford to spend a fortune on a carp rod and the EOS X rods are perfect if you fall into that category.
Don't for one minute think these rods aren't going to perform very well though, as when we tested them, we were simply blown away by the quality and when it was revealed you would be able to pick them up for under £55, we knew they had to go in as our favourite budget carp rod.
If you are an occasional carp angler or someone who is out every week, these rods offer everything you could want, they will land the biggest carp and will cope with practically everything you could want to do up to 100 yards, after that they do struggle a bit as you would expect for a rod at this price point.
Built on an ultra-light, high-modulus carbon blank they are designed for both precision and power, and we found them to have some excellent accuracy fishing at 20 wraps with solid bags and conventional rigs. This updated blank also improves the crispness of the rod and for those that are proficient casters, they will chuck leads much further.
The rods also feature Fox's premium SLIK Air guides to reduce friction and an anti-frap tip to prevent line tangles, a nice touch to a cheaper rod that will aid their ease of use, especially for beginners. To top the rod off, the understated matt black finish just gives a quality look to a rod that should be at least double its price tag!
Available in a range of lengths, test curves, and in 2-piece or 3-piece configurations to suit your fishing style, the EOS Pro also includes a spod/marker rod option, all available for under £100.
Pros
- Slim, matte finish gives understated, minimalist look
- Lightweight and sensitive
Cons
- Lightweight, and sensitive construction compromises on ability to cast distance
Best 12ft Carp Rod Under £100
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The Daiwa Crosscast X rod features a high-modulus carbon blank, offering exceptional strength and responsiveness while maintaining a slim profile for effortless casting and fish playing.
These rods are incredibly versatile and for the price, you probably aren't going to find a better all-round carp rod on a budget, all with equality and reliability we have come to expect from Daiwa. Whether you want to chuck a lead at distance, fish in heavy weed or take it to your local runs water for loads of bites this is a great choice.
I personally have a set of these for my smaller water fishing, coupled with the crosscast reels, they are just nice and easy to use, no nonsense kit that I find myself choosing over my more expensive kit more often these days.
Reinforced with 1K woven carbon, the Crosscast ensures durability and enhanced performance. It comes equipped with premium SeaGuide components, including a secure reel seat and lightweight stainless-steel guides, making it a reliable choice for any carp angler.
No matter the fishing conditions you may encounter, the Crosscast delivers a superb performance and will perform well in the majority of UK carp fishing scenarios .
Pros
- Slim profile gives a modern aesthetic
- Powerful performance, the high modulus blank is very stiff, excellent for distance casting
Cons
- The stiffness and test curve may be too powerful for targeting smaller fish
Built from, high-quality, low-resin carbon, the Avid Revolve Carp rods offer a perfect blend of strength, sensitivity, and affordability.
The sleek, minimalist design features premium components like Minima style guides and a high-quality 18mm reel seat, ensuring smooth casting and reliable hook-sets. The anti-frap ceramic tip keeps your lines tangle-free, while the comfortable shrink-wrap handle provides all-day comfort.
Available in a range of lengths and test curves, there’s a Revolve rod to suit every angler. Whether you're targeting small waters or casting to distant horizons.
Pros
- Versatile range with an option to suit most
- Great fish playing action
Cons
- Basic looking
The Best Stalking Carp Rod Under £100
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These 9ft beauties, available in versatile 3lb and 3.25lb test curves, are perfect for a wide range of carp fishing conditions, from short-range work and canals to stalking and small, intimate swims.
The slim, high-modulus carbon blank of the Onyx packs a surprising punch, delivering exceptional casting distance and accuracy. With an unground finish, this rod offers a classic, understated look that is sure to turn heads on the bank.
Equipped with top-quality stainless steel guides and a comfortable EVA handle, the Onyx is designed for long days on the bank. Its compact design is ideal for anglers with limited space who demand convenience, whether you're fishing from a small car or targeting tight swims these rods are perfect for you.
Pros
- Extendable rod, can be stored really compact if space limited
- Stainless steel guides and anti-frap tip ring
Cons
- Extendability may not be desirable and suit every angler
Best Traditional Carp Rod Under £100
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The Wychwood Extricator plus is crafted from premium 40 tonne carbon, which boasts an impeccable balance of power and sensitivity, ensuring you're always in control.
The sleek, low-profile guides reduce friction, allowing for effortless casting and improved fish control. Coupled with the anti-frap tip, you can cast with confidence, knowing your line is protected.
With the classic cork option giving the traditional look, not your style? the modern EVA style is available, to find your perfect fit. Backed by a lifetime warranty, you can fish with peace of mind knowing you've invested in a rod built to last.
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty
- Classic cork handle option give traditional look
Cons
- Only available upto 10ft, so may not be suitable for longer range
Best Short Carp Rod Under £100
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Designed for those tight, overgrown swims where a full-size rod is a hindrance, this 6ft marvel is your ticket to carp angling success.
Built with high-performance 1K carbon fibre, the Propel Stalker packs a punch without the bulk. Its sleek profile and lightning-fast action make it perfect for accurate, stealthy presentations. The low-friction Zirconia guides ensure your line flies effortlessly, while the anti-frap tip keeps things tangle-free.
Every detail is designed with the stalking angler in mind. The Fuji DPS reel seat locks your reel securely in place, the keeper ring keeps your hook safe when on the move, and the comfortable shrink-wrap handle provides all-day comfort. With its understated looks and exceptional performance, the Trakker Propel Stalker is the perfect tool for the discerning angler who demands the best.
Pros
- Short compact design ideal for stalking
- Versatile, not just for stalking
Cons
- Short length will make it inadequate for any sort of distance fishing
The best spod/marker rod for under £100
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Daiwa Super Spod rod, precision-engineered tool for both spodding and marking out your swim. The 5.0lb test curve can handle anything you throw at it, from compact spod rockets to hefty marker floats.
Choose from three lengths to match your fishing style: the compact 10-footer for tighter swims, the versatile 12-footer for all-round performance, or the long-range beast, the 13-footer.
Each rod boasts a high-modulus carbon blank for effortless casting and exceptional durability.
Sporting a 50mm Seaguide butt guide for smooth line flow and an easy-to-clean abbreviated handle for comfort. Plus, handy 6" and 132 line markers help you dial in the perfect depth.
Pros
- Multiple lengths available to suit your fishing
- Practical features, 6" interval depth markers
Cons
- Limited to single test curve may not suit all
What to look for in a budget carp rod
With a vast array of venues, from small, overgrown ponds to expansive gravel pits, anglers need rods that can adapt. A key consideration of a carp rod under £100 is the rod's test curve, influencing casting distance and playing ability. For shorter ranges and smaller waters, a 2.5lb to 3.0lb test curve offers a great balance of power and sensitivity. If you're targeting larger venues or casting to distant features, a 3.0lb to 3.5lb TC carp fishing rod is more suitable. The best spod rods are often required to help you deliver heavy payloads at distance to prevent breakages to your fishing rods.
Rod length also plays a role; longer rods excel at distance casting, while shorter models offer better manoeuvrability in confined spaces. High-modulus carbon blanks provide the ideal blend of strength and lightness, essential for playing powerful fish. Top-quality guides, such as those made from stainless steel or ceramic, prevent line friction and tangles, ensuring smooth casting and accurate presentation, whilst a comfortable handle, whether cork or EVA, is crucial for long fishing sessions.
Finally, a secure reel seat is non-negotiable, preventing equipment failure during those critical moments. Considering these attributes whether or not you are a beginner or an experienced angler will assist you in making the right decision on your next carp fishing rod.
Glossary
Blank: The hollow carbon fiber tube that forms the main body of the rod. Attached to the blank are the guides and handle.
Guides: The rings that run along the length of the rod through which the fishing line passes.
Reel Seat: The part of the handle where your reel attaches. Most UK coarse rods feature screw-down reel seats, where the fore-grip on the handle rotates to tighten the seat and secure the reel in place.
Test Curve: Measured in pounds, this indicates the amount of weight required to bend the rod over 90 degrees. A higher test curve means a more powerful rod.
Fish Playing Action: Describes how well a rod performs when reeling in a fish. A rod with a good fish-playing action provides ample cushioning to absorb the shock from a thrashing fish, helping to prevent hook pulls and line breakages.
Progressive Action: A rod that quickly powers up from its tip through to its middle section, offering a coordinated playing action suitable for powerful fish.
Tip Action: Typically refers to traditional three-piece float rods, which require a 'tip action' to efficiently cast light floats and quickly pick up line on the strike.
Through Action: A rod with a softer top section that produces a smooth, cushioned bend throughout its entire length, providing a good fish-playing action.
Rod Taper: Describes how a rod's diameter changes along its length. A fast taper rod quickly thickens as you move away from the tip, often bending more at the tip than at the butt. While other factors like carbon types and construction also influence rod action, a fast taper typically features more tip action.
Frequently asked questions
Will a rod with a bigger casting weight or test curve rating cast further?
Yes, when combined with extra length, you will be able to achieve greater distances with the correct technique and a weight that matches the rod. Be aware that the more powerful your rod, the stronger the line and hooks you will need to use to prevent fish losses as the cushion isn't in the rod to prevent line breakages.
Whats the best test curve for a carp rod?
This determines the rod's power and casting distance. A versatile range lies between 2.75lb and 3.25lb, balancing power and precision. Lighter options (2.0lb-2.5lb) suit smaller waters and fish, while heavier choices (3.5lb+) excel at long-range battles with larger specimens.
What length carp rod should I use?
The standard range spans from 10ft to 13ft. Shorter rods shine in confined spaces, offering better control. Conversely, longer rods excel at distance casting. Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferred fishing style and the venues you frequent.
Whats the difference between a carp and a match rod?
Carp rods are built for power, handling larger fish with their stiffer actions and ability to withstand heavy leads. In contrast, match rods prioritise sensitivity for finesse fishing with smaller baits and lighter lines, featuring softer actions.
Whats the best rod action for carp fishing?
Rod action describes how the rod bends under pressure. A progressive action, bending smoothly from tip to butt, offers versatility for various fish sizes. Faster actions excel in casting but can be less forgiving on hook holds, while slower actions provide superior cushioning for larger fish.
Should I choose a cork or EVA handled rod?
This all comes down to personal preference. Cork is lightweight, transmits more feeling to your hands when playing a fish and looks great. EVA, however, is cheaper and more durable. Many rods have an abbreviated or combined cork/EVA handle, with the material best suited to a particular part of the handle used to give the best of both worlds.
Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of digital content writer at Angling Times.