Distance casting is a valuable skill to have, particularly when it comes to carp fishing. Carp anglers are probably all too familiar with the frustrations of a short cast when you see an enticing catch far out on a distant bank.
The distance casting rod you choose is a significant part of this equation as the rod can either enhance or dampen your experience. You want to make sure to examine the features of each to see which model is suitable for you.
To help you thoroughly enjoy hitting those long-range spots, take a look at the fantastic selection of rods in our reviews of the ten best carp rods for distance casting.
1. Avid - Amplify Rod: Best for Extreme Long-Range Fishing
Developed over an extensive period, Avid designed the Amplify Rod to reach great distances with substantial power. Using a unique blend of diagonal carbon cross weave and Triple X carbon, this rod can achieve a much faster tip speed than other models.
The company designed each feature with long-range fishing in mind, from the minimal line resistance to a faster tip speed. The engineering also minimises hook pulls, which often plague rods designed for great distances.
With a fine balance of aesthetics and comfort, this rod also features a slim EVA handle to ensure an enjoyable casting experience even when faced with harsh winds.
PROS
- Blank made from a unique blend of carbon cross weave and Avid Triple X carbon for ultra-responsive handling
- Both rugged and lightweight thanks to the low-profile ringing and inserts made from silicon nitride
- Integrated line clip
CONS
- Not necessarily designed for extreme long-range fishing though it works well for distance casting
- Not the most compact at 12 or 13 feet
2. Century - C2 D 13FT 3.75LB Rod: Best for Fishing in the Weeds
Built upon the CD-D, widely considered the standard for a carp rod, this model expands upon that popular design to introduce a superb all-around distance casting rod.
This model is best suited for casting leads about 3.5 to 5oz. It is popular amongst anglers who find themselves fishing in large bodies of water or in environments that need extra power, such as weedy waters.
The development of this rod features many updated techniques and technologies to get this model just right. Modern HPR materials and the inclusion of Fuji Titanium K guides are both used for weight saving. Anti-twist technology improves accuracy, line flow, and twist rotation.
All of these features combine for a rod that is uniquely suited for power. The blank just above the reel seat allows the rod to bend aggressively enabling anglers cast for an impressive distance.
PROS
- Works for long-distance and short-distance casting, ranging anywhere from 90 to even over 200 yards
- HPR materials and Fiji titanium K guides enable 30% weight saving capacities compared to previous casting rods
- Well-suited for PVA bags and big leads due to a snappy recovery rate to the rod’s neutral position
CONS
- Not the best choice for a novice angler — it requires experienced handling
- Sensitive — best suited for casting leads that weigh between 3.5 and 5oz; anything lighter or heavier may interfere with the performance.
3. Century - C2 SP Command & Control Minima Rod: Best for an Update on the Classic Century C2
The C2 SP Command & Control builds on the ingenuity of the original Century C2, long considered a cult rod and widely respected by anglers across Europe.
This rod includes the features that made the original rod so famous, such as its fish playing characteristics, the latest in carbon technology features, balance, and lightweight frame.
This new model improves these traditional features to include a sleek, updated design concept. These cosmetic touches and added blank test curves meet the needs of current anglers. Such features include the new Century carbon reel seat, the matt black metal hoods designed to be incredibly durable and aesthetically pleasing.
PROS
- Available in a wide range of models, meeting any and every requirement that an angler may have
- Autoclave technology ensures life-long peak performance
- Features from the iconic C2 but with modern advancements to ensure the longevity of the new model
CONS
- May take some getting used to for anglers accustomed to the previous model
- An extensive range of size options may overwhelm the new angler still figuring out what model suits their specific needs
4. Daiwa - Basia X45 TT Alps Rod: Best for Increased Torque Resistance and Accuracy
Featuring a custom standard, each of these rods has a Minima 4 guide for ease of use. The redesigned blank allows about a 10% weight reduction.
Despite the reduced weight, the power conversion is stronger than ever. This new design also features increased straight-line accuracy and torque resistance, making the fishing experience much more seamless.
PROS
- Several exclusive features, including an anti-frap tip ring, an aluminium reel seat, and both red whippings and red collars for a truly unique design
- Features a sleek, modern matte finish with low glare for stealth fishing
- Increased power and accuracy compared to previous models
CONS
- Highly in demand — sells out quickly and may be unavailable when you are ready to purchase
5. Daiwa - Longbow X45 TT Alps Rod: Best for High Energy Casting
Daiwa’s Longbow X45 TT builds on the popular Basia rod but adds new technology, combining blank evolution and the classic Longbow shape.
A favourite in field-testing, this rod utilises butt diameter and material to deliver loading when harnessing potential energy.
PROS
- Enhanced recovery and improved rapid release compared to the previous Basia model
- Includes exclusive features like an Alps ARD-B black aluminium reel seat
- The finish is entirely custom-built
CONS
- Traditional Longbow release means less speed than the earlier Basia model
6. Shimano - Tribal TX7 Rod: Best for Fishing in Big Fish Waters
Considered to be the “powerhouse” for the Tribal range, this model is the ultimate rod in angling in vast bodies of water.
Shimano backs this claim to power by enhancing the rod with incredibly powerful, strong blanks using HPC250+ Biofibre. It also includes stainless steel guides to combat any additional weight from these features.
PROS
- Perfect for big fish waters, with several features explicitly dedicated to boosting power and increasing durability
- Stainless steel guides enable more accurate fishing without adding any extra weight
CONS
- Too powerful for narrow bodies of water; better for fishing in large bodies of water for massive fish
7. Shimano - Tribal TX5 Rod: Best for Improved Casting
The Tribal TX5 takes advantage of the most updated manufacturing processes. It includes using a combination of Biofibre carbon and HPC200, meaning that blanks will be both powerful and very slim.
The unique design creates an enhanced casting performance without compromising on playing action in the middle and tip sections, necessary for a secure hook hold.
PROS
- Red tip on the usual black cosmetic wrapping makes it easier for the angler to see
- Enhanced casting performance thanks to new manufacturing techniques and materials
- Features powerful yet slim blanks
CONS
- Only available in two length options: 12 or 13 feet; anglers seeking other lengths may wish to look elsewhere
8. Daiwa - Infinity X45 2PC Rods: Best for Accuracy
Expanding on the iconic and reputable Infinity brand, this model features the latest advancements in X45 technology. Plus, the ever-popular Magnum Taper profile enables improved distance with pinpoint accuracy through its responsive tip design and high-loading point. Together, these produce a blank that is incredibly accurate, fast, and with a tremendous performance.
Minima guides make this model feel lightweight and easy to handle. Each of these features an ALPS reel seat, accompanied by a double screw fitting.
PROS
- Six distinct models to suit the needs of different anglers
- Up to 6 months of rigorous fine-tuning and testing for each rod, ensuring efficacy and endurance
CONS
- May not be enough power for anglers fishing in large bodies of water with more demanding conditions — main features of this rod include accuracy and speed
9. Shimano - Tribal TX Ultra Rod: Best Carp Rod All-Around
This particular model is very popular amongst anglers and for a good reason. It chucks up to an impressive 234 yards without compromising accuracy.
This model is ideal for anglers looking to fish at a distance and over baited spots or similar conditions. The blanks are lightweight, slim, and specifically designed to set a new standard for throwing performance.
PROS
- Incredible long-distance casts thanks to Hi-Power X and Spiral X blank construction
- Futuristic design proves an effective rod can be a stylish one as well
- Hard case protects the rod during transport
CONS
- Not versatile enough to use for short-distance and mid-distance casting — only suited for anglers seeking large distances
10. Daiwa - Basia X45 TT Alps Gunsmoke K Guides (TFT Exclusive): Best for a Custom Standard
An improvement on the Basia TT, this model — exclusive to Total Fishing Tackle — features increased straight-line accuracy and higher torque resistance without compromising power.
Daiwa aimed to accomplish a higher finish on a custom standard using an anti frap tip ring and gunsmoke K guides by Japanese manufacturer Fuji.
PROS
- Features an improved line accuracy and torque resistance than previous models
- Exclusive features, including gunsmoke collars and an Alps ARD-B Gunsmoke aluminium reel seat
CONS
- Limited availability — exclusive features cause this rod to sell out fast